May God be with you all and bless your time together. Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Merry Christmas!
Just wanted to take this moment to wish everyone the Merriest Christmas ever!! I've got family coming in today so I've been busy cleaning house. And now, its finally cookie time! The girls just love when we bake cookies together each Christmas. So, I'm off to the kitchen. Enjoy your time with family and friends and celebrating our gift of a lifetime, JESUS!!!
May God be with you all and bless your time together. Merry Christmas!
May God be with you all and bless your time together. Merry Christmas!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
I've Got A Friend
So, I'm still new to this whole world of blogging but so far its been a lot of fun. Its a good way to express your feelings about God and to God. Sort of like a written prayer. Sometimes its just a good way to help myself work through a revelation. But if I wanted it to be private, I'd keep a journal. After reading so many other blogs, you can't help but hope that somebody will come around once in a while and read your own. Not for the fame, certainly not for the fortune, but maybe somebody will be touched by what I've said or have another point of view or just want to say "hey". So far, that hasn't happened much.
And then the greatest thing happened today! There's this beautiful woman whose blog I read daily. I asked her for advice on "publicizing" my blog. Hers is read by many so I figured she would know. Not only did she send me an emailed response to my question, she wrote an entire post about me. If you could have seen the look on my face! My jaw hit the floor! I'm not surrounded by many who can help me grow my faith and then God sent me Valerie Lynn. You can find her at Simply 4 God. I'm amazed at how someone I've never met, never spoken to in person and never even knew existed 3 months ago could become such a great friend.
Have you ever been that kind of friend? I don't think that I have, but I've been inspired to become one. God created people for people. We're not here on earth just to meander our way through life. God created Eve because he wanted Adam to have someone to share it all with. So who are you gonna share it with? What can you do for someone else today? I'm challenging you to practice random acts of kindness. Let me know what you did or will do, perhaps you'll inspire someone else to do the same.
And to Valerie Lynn, thank you for being my friend!
And then the greatest thing happened today! There's this beautiful woman whose blog I read daily. I asked her for advice on "publicizing" my blog. Hers is read by many so I figured she would know. Not only did she send me an emailed response to my question, she wrote an entire post about me. If you could have seen the look on my face! My jaw hit the floor! I'm not surrounded by many who can help me grow my faith and then God sent me Valerie Lynn. You can find her at Simply 4 God. I'm amazed at how someone I've never met, never spoken to in person and never even knew existed 3 months ago could become such a great friend.
Have you ever been that kind of friend? I don't think that I have, but I've been inspired to become one. God created people for people. We're not here on earth just to meander our way through life. God created Eve because he wanted Adam to have someone to share it all with. So who are you gonna share it with? What can you do for someone else today? I'm challenging you to practice random acts of kindness. Let me know what you did or will do, perhaps you'll inspire someone else to do the same.
And to Valerie Lynn, thank you for being my friend!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Spiritual Warfare
There are times in every life when it seems we are all alone, fighting to survive day to day. The battles aren't always the same - financial hardships, catastrophic illnesses, marital discourse. It is during these struggles we are most vulnerable. It is at our weakest moments that it happens - Spiritual Warfare.
Just like any battle, the best time to attack is when your opponent is least able to defend themselves. And when we are at our lowest valleys, Satan fixes you in his scope, and begins his attack. He fires his missles directly at your weakest links. So what do you do then?
We can choose to be defeated, but does that eliminate our troubles? Does that keep other trials from coming our way? The alternative - believe in Him, trust in Him, lean on Him. God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble." (Psalm 46:1) Trials will still invade our lives but we have a comfort that can only be found in Jesus. Its a promise that with each trial comes strength and with strength comes endurance. God: the Ultimate Personal Trainer!
When faced with struggles in life, don't just accept it as fate, see it for the war that it is. What do soldiers do when going to war? They arm themselves with the appropriate weapons. Your weapon is God's Word. But just like a machine gun, it can't be used effectively unless you take the time to learn how it works and how to use it. This means you have to study often and earnestly. The more you read the more you learn. With continued practice, the enemy will see how powerful your weapon has become. And just like an enemy at war, he will turn in defeat.
God has promised that the enemy WILL be defeated, even when our situation seems hopeless. GOD WILL BE VICTORIOUS!!! Here are just a couple of bullets for your arsenal:
"The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in Him." Nahum 1:7
"Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you." Psalm 50:15
"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance." Romans 5:3
And finally:
"For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing." James 1:3-4
When you find yourself feeling weak and vulnerable, instead of asking "why me?", give thanks to God because you are being polished and perfected. Keep your eyes focused on Him until the day comes when you will "need nothing".
Just like any battle, the best time to attack is when your opponent is least able to defend themselves. And when we are at our lowest valleys, Satan fixes you in his scope, and begins his attack. He fires his missles directly at your weakest links. So what do you do then?
We can choose to be defeated, but does that eliminate our troubles? Does that keep other trials from coming our way? The alternative - believe in Him, trust in Him, lean on Him. God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble." (Psalm 46:1) Trials will still invade our lives but we have a comfort that can only be found in Jesus. Its a promise that with each trial comes strength and with strength comes endurance. God: the Ultimate Personal Trainer!
When faced with struggles in life, don't just accept it as fate, see it for the war that it is. What do soldiers do when going to war? They arm themselves with the appropriate weapons. Your weapon is God's Word. But just like a machine gun, it can't be used effectively unless you take the time to learn how it works and how to use it. This means you have to study often and earnestly. The more you read the more you learn. With continued practice, the enemy will see how powerful your weapon has become. And just like an enemy at war, he will turn in defeat.
God has promised that the enemy WILL be defeated, even when our situation seems hopeless. GOD WILL BE VICTORIOUS!!! Here are just a couple of bullets for your arsenal:
"The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in Him." Nahum 1:7
"Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you." Psalm 50:15
"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance." Romans 5:3
And finally:
"For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing." James 1:3-4
When you find yourself feeling weak and vulnerable, instead of asking "why me?", give thanks to God because you are being polished and perfected. Keep your eyes focused on Him until the day comes when you will "need nothing".
Monday, December 15, 2008
Prayer Request
There's a little girl named Sydney who goes to school with my daughter. She is 7 years old. Yesterday, she passed out and suffered a seizure at church. She is now at a hospital in Atlanta undergoing an MRI. The doctors say she has a brain tumor, but until the MRI results, we won't know more. They are expecting her to have surgery tonight or tomorrow.
I'm sure this family thought it was going to be a great day yesterday as they enjoyed breakfast and headed off to church. Remember to pray always and give thanks to God, for we never know what lies just around the corner.
Please send up prayers for Sydney and her family. And pray that they will continue to lean on Him during this most difficult time.
Update: It turns out the CT scan showed some strange shadow, but the MRI shows nothing... NO BRAIN TUMOR!! They still need to figure out what caused her 4 seizures. But obviously, everyone is relieved and grateful. (Her pediatrician, the doctors at the 1st hospital and her parents all said they saw the same "shadow" on the scans. Medical mistake or miracle?) Thank you for your prayers, God is great!!!
Update#2: Sydney came back to school today!! Only 4 days after this whole ordeal began. Her diagnosis is epilepsy, and they're hopeful that she will eventually outgrow it. But constant medication is way better than brain surgery! Please continue to pray for her family as they learn how to cope with a chronic illness. And of course, thanks to our Great God for watching over Sydney!
I'm sure this family thought it was going to be a great day yesterday as they enjoyed breakfast and headed off to church. Remember to pray always and give thanks to God, for we never know what lies just around the corner.
Please send up prayers for Sydney and her family. And pray that they will continue to lean on Him during this most difficult time.
Update: It turns out the CT scan showed some strange shadow, but the MRI shows nothing... NO BRAIN TUMOR!! They still need to figure out what caused her 4 seizures. But obviously, everyone is relieved and grateful. (Her pediatrician, the doctors at the 1st hospital and her parents all said they saw the same "shadow" on the scans. Medical mistake or miracle?) Thank you for your prayers, God is great!!!
Update#2: Sydney came back to school today!! Only 4 days after this whole ordeal began. Her diagnosis is epilepsy, and they're hopeful that she will eventually outgrow it. But constant medication is way better than brain surgery! Please continue to pray for her family as they learn how to cope with a chronic illness. And of course, thanks to our Great God for watching over Sydney!
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Re-gifting
"God has given gifts to each of you from His great variety of spiritual gifts. Manage them well so that God's generosity can flow through you." 1 Peter 4:10
We are each given spiritual gifts by God. Some we use, some we don't. Sometimes its hard trying to figure out what they are. But thanks to the wonder of the internet, there are many "tests" that can assess your skills and personality to narrow down the list. What are yours?
Prophecy
Ministry
Teaching
Exhortation
Service
Leading
Mercy
Apostleship
Wisdom
Knowledge
Discernment
Faith
Miracles
Healing
Did you see yours? Mine are Mercy and Service. But look at the list again and think about what these gifts really mean. When we hear of gifts, most of us think about Christmases and birthdays. Things we receive for ourselves, to keep. That's what these are as well.
But if you look at what these gifts are used for, do any of them benefit you? Aren't they all used to help others? Then actually, we are just the middle men. Spiritual gifts are bestowed upon us to give to others. Rather than being the recipient, we are the giver. Think of it as "holy re-gifting"!
We already received The Spirit as our gift. We are now responsible for handing out what He has given us. Its not ours to keep after all. It must be shared or it is wasted. Like buying a present for someone and then stashing it in the closet, never to be seen by the one it was intended for. It is a gift, but one from which to learn, and then pass on to another.
So next time you thank God for the gifts in your life, think about how you are using those gifts. And just like your mama said, "you better share!"
We are each given spiritual gifts by God. Some we use, some we don't. Sometimes its hard trying to figure out what they are. But thanks to the wonder of the internet, there are many "tests" that can assess your skills and personality to narrow down the list. What are yours?
Prophecy
Ministry
Teaching
Exhortation
Service
Leading
Mercy
Apostleship
Wisdom
Knowledge
Discernment
Faith
Miracles
Healing
Did you see yours? Mine are Mercy and Service. But look at the list again and think about what these gifts really mean. When we hear of gifts, most of us think about Christmases and birthdays. Things we receive for ourselves, to keep. That's what these are as well.
But if you look at what these gifts are used for, do any of them benefit you? Aren't they all used to help others? Then actually, we are just the middle men. Spiritual gifts are bestowed upon us to give to others. Rather than being the recipient, we are the giver. Think of it as "holy re-gifting"!
We already received The Spirit as our gift. We are now responsible for handing out what He has given us. Its not ours to keep after all. It must be shared or it is wasted. Like buying a present for someone and then stashing it in the closet, never to be seen by the one it was intended for. It is a gift, but one from which to learn, and then pass on to another.
So next time you thank God for the gifts in your life, think about how you are using those gifts. And just like your mama said, "you better share!"
Friday, December 5, 2008
Proverbs 31
The Wife of Noble Character (Prov. 31:16-31 NLT)
Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies. Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She finds wool and flax and busily spins it. She is like a merchant ship, bringing her food from afar. She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day's work for her servant girls. She goes to inspect a field and buys it; with her earnings she plants a vineyard. She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night. Her hands are busy spinning thread, her fingers twisting fiber. She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy. She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes. She makes her own bedspreads. She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns. Her husband is well known at the city gates, where he sits with the other civic leaders. She makes belted linen garments and sashes to sell to the merchants. She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all." Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
Well, I don't know about you. But I don't even come close to measuring up to that ideal! I regard myself as lazy. I am self employed and am raising 2 daughters but I am a perfect procrastinator. I put everything off until the last minute. After the kids are off to school, I often find myself still on the sofa until nearly lunchtime. Not sleeping, usually reading through my favorite blogs, sometimes watching TV. Its not unusual for my toilets to go 3 weeks between cleanings. My office work is done either in a marathon, 12 hour-long sessions, or late at night after everyone else has gone to bed.
Anyhow, who of us couldn't go on and on discrediting ourselves? My point is I fritter away much of my time and some of my money. The money part I've already been convicted over and have begun to change. The time; well, I know now what God is telling me so its up to me. The challenge has been issued. Will I succeed or will I fail? I have God on my side, them's good odds!!
How about you? How do you measure up? I'd love for you to share the ways you strive to be a better wife and/or mother.
Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies. Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She finds wool and flax and busily spins it. She is like a merchant ship, bringing her food from afar. She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day's work for her servant girls. She goes to inspect a field and buys it; with her earnings she plants a vineyard. She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night. Her hands are busy spinning thread, her fingers twisting fiber. She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy. She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes. She makes her own bedspreads. She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns. Her husband is well known at the city gates, where he sits with the other civic leaders. She makes belted linen garments and sashes to sell to the merchants. She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all." Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.
Well, I don't know about you. But I don't even come close to measuring up to that ideal! I regard myself as lazy. I am self employed and am raising 2 daughters but I am a perfect procrastinator. I put everything off until the last minute. After the kids are off to school, I often find myself still on the sofa until nearly lunchtime. Not sleeping, usually reading through my favorite blogs, sometimes watching TV. Its not unusual for my toilets to go 3 weeks between cleanings. My office work is done either in a marathon, 12 hour-long sessions, or late at night after everyone else has gone to bed.
Anyhow, who of us couldn't go on and on discrediting ourselves? My point is I fritter away much of my time and some of my money. The money part I've already been convicted over and have begun to change. The time; well, I know now what God is telling me so its up to me. The challenge has been issued. Will I succeed or will I fail? I have God on my side, them's good odds!!
How about you? How do you measure up? I'd love for you to share the ways you strive to be a better wife and/or mother.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Writer's Block
So is it that I have such a dull life that I have nothing interesting to talk about, or is it that I have brain freeze? Who knows? But I hate to just leave this blog idle, so I'll refer to The Word. With the economy going down the drain, I looked up some words of inspiration.
Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Luke 12:15
(Just ask the guy who put all his eggs in the stock market basket.)
You cannot serve both God and money. Luke 16:13
The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
1 John 2:17
Consider it pure joy, my brother, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
James 1:2
(I must be really joyful!)
The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Heb. 13:6
(Na na, na na, boo boo!)
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Heb. 10:23
Through all these troubles, I am becoming a better Christ-follower, slowly but surely.
Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Luke 12:15
(Just ask the guy who put all his eggs in the stock market basket.)
You cannot serve both God and money. Luke 16:13
The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
1 John 2:17
Consider it pure joy, my brother, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
James 1:2
(I must be really joyful!)
The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Heb. 13:6
(Na na, na na, boo boo!)
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Heb. 10:23
Through all these troubles, I am becoming a better Christ-follower, slowly but surely.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Me, Change the World?
In order to appreciate today's post, you have to read yesterday's first. If you haven't, go ahead, I'll wait......
At church today, the topic of the sermon was "Becoming a World Changer". Don't you just love it when God picks up that brick and throws it right at your head?! While I'm knee-deep in my struggle with trying to serve, He brings me a message like this one. A world changer? Really, me? Exactly when do I fit that into my schedule? After soccer practice? Maybe while the washing machine is going? Or perhaps cutting out some of my 30 minutes or so it takes me to eat lunch?
One of the points Curt touched on was this: "A world changer is anyone who serves to better the life of someone else." And right then, it hit me.
Let me break down that statement. A world changer is anyone (not a whole bunch of people, or a church, or an organization...ONE) who serves to better the life of someone else. (Not the world, not a city, not even a neighborhood...ONE.)
It reminded me of something I read once. "To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may just be the world." I think I may be on to something here. God is trying to let me know that He doesn't expect me to be the next Nelson Mandela, or Steven Curtis Chapman, or even Ty Pennington. I just have to be me. I don't have to single-handedly create a new charitable foundation, I just need to be there for someone in need. A song from Casting Crowns says it best, "love them like Jesus". I could bring sandwiches to the people under the bridge, or visit with seniors at the nursing home, even something as small as offering a shoulder to a friend who is troubled.
As I pointed out in yesterday's post, everything big began as something small. You can't start a fire without a spark. I don't need a business plan just to spread God's love. I just need to focus on what I can do today. Well, today is nearly done so, I'll prepare for tomorrow. I can't wait to see what my Mighty, Powerful God has in store for me.
At church today, the topic of the sermon was "Becoming a World Changer". Don't you just love it when God picks up that brick and throws it right at your head?! While I'm knee-deep in my struggle with trying to serve, He brings me a message like this one. A world changer? Really, me? Exactly when do I fit that into my schedule? After soccer practice? Maybe while the washing machine is going? Or perhaps cutting out some of my 30 minutes or so it takes me to eat lunch?
One of the points Curt touched on was this: "A world changer is anyone who serves to better the life of someone else." And right then, it hit me.
Let me break down that statement. A world changer is anyone (not a whole bunch of people, or a church, or an organization...ONE) who serves to better the life of someone else. (Not the world, not a city, not even a neighborhood...ONE.)
It reminded me of something I read once. "To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may just be the world." I think I may be on to something here. God is trying to let me know that He doesn't expect me to be the next Nelson Mandela, or Steven Curtis Chapman, or even Ty Pennington. I just have to be me. I don't have to single-handedly create a new charitable foundation, I just need to be there for someone in need. A song from Casting Crowns says it best, "love them like Jesus". I could bring sandwiches to the people under the bridge, or visit with seniors at the nursing home, even something as small as offering a shoulder to a friend who is troubled.
As I pointed out in yesterday's post, everything big began as something small. You can't start a fire without a spark. I don't need a business plan just to spread God's love. I just need to focus on what I can do today. Well, today is nearly done so, I'll prepare for tomorrow. I can't wait to see what my Mighty, Powerful God has in store for me.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Making a Difference
I've been struggling lately with where to go next in my walk with God. I know He has a plan for everybody and I've been praying for God to show me the steps He would have me take. I'm still working on my faith, not that I don't believe with all my heart, I do. But its so difficult to muster the courage to live by that faith, to remember that "I can do all everything through him who gives me strength. Phil 4:13".
Its easy to let the enemy convince me that I'm not smart enough, strong enough, determined enough. In trying to find my place to serve, I've focused on looking for an organization, charity, whatever, where I can donate money or volunteer my time. But tonight, I watched a program called CNN:Heroes. They were honoring regular, ordinary people who have made significant contributions to the world. Most of them were simple people with simple ideas.
There was a guy who makes prothestic legs for people in Mexico.
A man who started a first responders service for areas hit by natural disasters.
A Hollywood nanny who sends a third of her paycheck to fund a school in her homeland for AIDS orphans.
A man from Ethiopia brought books and literacy programs to the children there.
A former inmate who started a video project to keep children in touch with their incarcerated parents.
An early morning runner has logged more than 5,000 miles running with shelter residents who receive shoes and running gear in exchange for staying clean and sober.
A woman quit her job and moved from Washington to New Orleans. Since June of 2006, she has helped 120 families rebuild and move back into their homes.
A Cambodian woman dedicated her life to providing free education, food and healthcare to kids living out of a trash dump.
A lady in Texas crosses the border several times a week to provide food, clothes and toys to impoverished families in Juarez, Mexico.
A grandmother in Somalia who started teaching 20 kids in her home now educates 1,500 girls in 6 locations. 1,000 more are waiting to enroll.
These people took what they knew and turned it into something great. Nothing special about them, besides their dedication and faith. Most of them thanked God in their speeches. I've been so conditioned to think that one person can't make a difference. But here are 10 people that did. They made a BIG difference, just by using what they already had. Most of them had no special talents, just compassion.
So what can I do? I feel certain that God planned for me to see this program, to remind me that I can do anything. I am so thankful for His little daily reminders, and that He opens my eyes to them. What will I do with this knowledge? Where do I start? I have a couple of ideas, nothing big, nothing earth-shattering. But then again, maybe to a few it will be. After all, these 10 people started small, and their projects took on a life of their own and grew.
So I will continue to pray for God's guidance. And I will quit listening to myself and listen to Him. And I will take those first steps in faith and see where He leads me. The path may change over time, but as long as I am following Him, I will never be lost.
Its easy to let the enemy convince me that I'm not smart enough, strong enough, determined enough. In trying to find my place to serve, I've focused on looking for an organization, charity, whatever, where I can donate money or volunteer my time. But tonight, I watched a program called CNN:Heroes. They were honoring regular, ordinary people who have made significant contributions to the world. Most of them were simple people with simple ideas.
There was a guy who makes prothestic legs for people in Mexico.
A man who started a first responders service for areas hit by natural disasters.
A Hollywood nanny who sends a third of her paycheck to fund a school in her homeland for AIDS orphans.
A man from Ethiopia brought books and literacy programs to the children there.
A former inmate who started a video project to keep children in touch with their incarcerated parents.
An early morning runner has logged more than 5,000 miles running with shelter residents who receive shoes and running gear in exchange for staying clean and sober.
A woman quit her job and moved from Washington to New Orleans. Since June of 2006, she has helped 120 families rebuild and move back into their homes.
A Cambodian woman dedicated her life to providing free education, food and healthcare to kids living out of a trash dump.
A lady in Texas crosses the border several times a week to provide food, clothes and toys to impoverished families in Juarez, Mexico.
A grandmother in Somalia who started teaching 20 kids in her home now educates 1,500 girls in 6 locations. 1,000 more are waiting to enroll.
These people took what they knew and turned it into something great. Nothing special about them, besides their dedication and faith. Most of them thanked God in their speeches. I've been so conditioned to think that one person can't make a difference. But here are 10 people that did. They made a BIG difference, just by using what they already had. Most of them had no special talents, just compassion.
So what can I do? I feel certain that God planned for me to see this program, to remind me that I can do anything. I am so thankful for His little daily reminders, and that He opens my eyes to them. What will I do with this knowledge? Where do I start? I have a couple of ideas, nothing big, nothing earth-shattering. But then again, maybe to a few it will be. After all, these 10 people started small, and their projects took on a life of their own and grew.
So I will continue to pray for God's guidance. And I will quit listening to myself and listen to Him. And I will take those first steps in faith and see where He leads me. The path may change over time, but as long as I am following Him, I will never be lost.
Take Less, Give More
Have you heard the news out of Platteville, Co.? Most mainstream news outlets probably didn't report on it but I heard about it on a nationally syndicated Christian radio station. Let me start by going to His Word.
"When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the alien." Lev. 19:9-10
That's what Chris and Joe Miller did on Nov.22. They own a 600 acre farm and had a bountiful harvest this year. After the harvest, they decided to open their farm to anyone who wanted to pick up what was left over of the potatoes, onions, carrots and beets. They expected 5,000-10,000 people. 40,000 showed up.
I was completely blown away when I heard this story. Most of us know people who do good deeds, but isn't this way over the top? Especially in a world where extreme greed has resulted in a failing economy, everybody wants more, more, more. The Millers might have gone over their fields a second time (I'm not a farmer, maybe it wasn't cost effective). They could have discounted the produce for anyone who wanted to pick it themselves. This is, after all, their bread-and-butter. Who couldn't use more income right about now? And they could have taken the very easy route and just let it rot on the ground, then turned under when the next planting season came. But no, they decided that they had already been blessed enough with such a bumper crop.
I don't know if the Millers are Christians, none of the news reports mentioned the Lord's instruction to do this very thing. Regardless, God has used them to affect thousands of people. I live in Georgia so I wasn't there for the gleaning, but I have been inspired by these Colorado farmers.
"When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the alien." Lev. 19:9-10
That's what Chris and Joe Miller did on Nov.22. They own a 600 acre farm and had a bountiful harvest this year. After the harvest, they decided to open their farm to anyone who wanted to pick up what was left over of the potatoes, onions, carrots and beets. They expected 5,000-10,000 people. 40,000 showed up.
I was completely blown away when I heard this story. Most of us know people who do good deeds, but isn't this way over the top? Especially in a world where extreme greed has resulted in a failing economy, everybody wants more, more, more. The Millers might have gone over their fields a second time (I'm not a farmer, maybe it wasn't cost effective). They could have discounted the produce for anyone who wanted to pick it themselves. This is, after all, their bread-and-butter. Who couldn't use more income right about now? And they could have taken the very easy route and just let it rot on the ground, then turned under when the next planting season came. But no, they decided that they had already been blessed enough with such a bumper crop.
I don't know if the Millers are Christians, none of the news reports mentioned the Lord's instruction to do this very thing. Regardless, God has used them to affect thousands of people. I live in Georgia so I wasn't there for the gleaning, but I have been inspired by these Colorado farmers.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving!
Have you all enjoyed your holiday? I hope your day was filled with lots of delicious goodies! Ours? Well, we had our feast a couple of weeks ago. We had decided that today we would be servants.
Our day began with breakfast at Waffle House. The girls just love going there, being one of the "usuals". The love to pretend they work there. So today, one of the ladies suprised them by giving each of them a menu and orderpad to take home. They've been shouting out orders all day long. After breakfast, we drove through Rose Hill Cemetary to show them the Confederate graves. The stories of soldiers' sacrifices didn't really register, but they thought all the granite and marble statues and crosses were really cool.
On from there to our intended destination, The Salvation Army. We arrived, signed in and were told to wash up and put on gloves. We got our assignments and waited for 11:30. The line outside poured in and we told them that today, they didn't have to stand in line. "Have a seat, today we're serving you." Kenley, who is seven, brought plates while Chloe, five, handed out forks and napkins.
But after that initial seating, there were no more. Should I be disappointed that our service lasted all of 20 minutes, or should I be happy that the low turnout must mean that nobody went hungry today? There are several shelters and soup kitchens in town, so I hope that everyone found a hot meal. As for the lesson we were trying to teach our girls, they're probably still too young to really get it. But we've planted the seed.
As for my husband, this was not exactly his thing. But he was supportive of my decision and wanted this to be something we did as a family. I had hoped this might even become a tradition for us. And then she happened. During the "rush", Ken was spooning dressing onto plates and spoke up to say we would need another pan. Her reply was, "Sir, I'm in charge here and that's not your place. Your job is to serve food." She was rude, ungrateful and downright arrogant. I know a job is still just work, but why would someone so uncaring get into the business of caring for others? Is it only a paycheck for her, has being surrounded by indigents hardened her? I don't know why, but she spoke loudly and harshly to my husband. Ken is so easy going though, so he took it all in stride. And we joked about him getting in trouble, and that he should only speak when spoken to. Afterward, he said he had done it and now it was over. Next year, he'd be eating his own turkey and napping on the sofa. So much for potential traditions.
Well, there are plenty of other ways to serve God. They certainly didn't need us there today, there were more volunteers than mouths to feed. (I wonder now what they did with all that leftover food.) Maybe next year we'll bring canned goods to the food bank, they're always short this time of year. Whatever, I have faith that God will guide my steps. I'm early in my walk and I know He has wonderful plans for me. And for that, I am most thankful!
Our day began with breakfast at Waffle House. The girls just love going there, being one of the "usuals". The love to pretend they work there. So today, one of the ladies suprised them by giving each of them a menu and orderpad to take home. They've been shouting out orders all day long. After breakfast, we drove through Rose Hill Cemetary to show them the Confederate graves. The stories of soldiers' sacrifices didn't really register, but they thought all the granite and marble statues and crosses were really cool.
On from there to our intended destination, The Salvation Army. We arrived, signed in and were told to wash up and put on gloves. We got our assignments and waited for 11:30. The line outside poured in and we told them that today, they didn't have to stand in line. "Have a seat, today we're serving you." Kenley, who is seven, brought plates while Chloe, five, handed out forks and napkins.
But after that initial seating, there were no more. Should I be disappointed that our service lasted all of 20 minutes, or should I be happy that the low turnout must mean that nobody went hungry today? There are several shelters and soup kitchens in town, so I hope that everyone found a hot meal. As for the lesson we were trying to teach our girls, they're probably still too young to really get it. But we've planted the seed.
As for my husband, this was not exactly his thing. But he was supportive of my decision and wanted this to be something we did as a family. I had hoped this might even become a tradition for us. And then she happened. During the "rush", Ken was spooning dressing onto plates and spoke up to say we would need another pan. Her reply was, "Sir, I'm in charge here and that's not your place. Your job is to serve food." She was rude, ungrateful and downright arrogant. I know a job is still just work, but why would someone so uncaring get into the business of caring for others? Is it only a paycheck for her, has being surrounded by indigents hardened her? I don't know why, but she spoke loudly and harshly to my husband. Ken is so easy going though, so he took it all in stride. And we joked about him getting in trouble, and that he should only speak when spoken to. Afterward, he said he had done it and now it was over. Next year, he'd be eating his own turkey and napping on the sofa. So much for potential traditions.
Well, there are plenty of other ways to serve God. They certainly didn't need us there today, there were more volunteers than mouths to feed. (I wonder now what they did with all that leftover food.) Maybe next year we'll bring canned goods to the food bank, they're always short this time of year. Whatever, I have faith that God will guide my steps. I'm early in my walk and I know He has wonderful plans for me. And for that, I am most thankful!
I Am Thankful For...
Jesus!!
my beautiful, kind, caring daughters.
my husband and his gentle heart.
Piedmont Church.
the state of our economy reminding me that "money is the root of all evil".
my best friend of 28 years, Lisa!
sushi!
my kids' school.
butterfly and eskimo kisses.
being an American!
music that uplifts my spirit.
watching my kids dance.
my beautiful, kind, caring daughters.
my husband and his gentle heart.
Piedmont Church.
the state of our economy reminding me that "money is the root of all evil".
my best friend of 28 years, Lisa!
sushi!
my kids' school.
butterfly and eskimo kisses.
being an American!
music that uplifts my spirit.
watching my kids dance.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
What Happened To Thanksgiving?
I know, I know. Thanksgiving has really gotten the shaft in recent years. I think within the next decade, retailers will just leave Christmas decorations out 24/7/365. I only mention this because as I am writing this, my girls are busy decorating the tree...ALREADY! I guess its not that early, I usually put up the tree the weekend after Thanksgiving but I just couldn't wait this year. I just love the glow of the lights, the sparkle of the ornaments and the jumbled way the house feels with all the extra stuff around. I am always the one to decorate, always have been. As long as I can remember, I've done it, even growing up. But here I sit, watching my kids take over. Its sweet watching them work together and saying to each other, "hey, remember this one?" That's funny because they're only 5 and 7, how many Christmas memories could they possibly have? And I'm trying really, really hard not to fix, adjust or criticize. I've got just a touch of OCD, and although I'm not neat, I'm a perfectionist. I'm trying not to pass that on to my kids. So I'll just smile whenever I see our tree... our beautiful 8' tree... the one with no ornaments higher than 6'.
And as for Thanksgiving, I'm thankful that my kids are making memories, that God has given me enough peace to let me let them do it without me and that we have been blessed with plenty in a time when so many have not.
And as for Thanksgiving, I'm thankful that my kids are making memories, that God has given me enough peace to let me let them do it without me and that we have been blessed with plenty in a time when so many have not.
Monday, November 24, 2008
How This All Began
A few months ago I stopped by the bookstore for a new read. Not a big reader, well I wasn't before. So I'm scanning the books when one catches my eye. No particular reason why, I was just drawn to it. It took me only about 3 days to finish it, a new personal best. About midway through it, I new I was experiencing something wonderful! Enough suspense, it was The Shack by William Paul Young. If you haven't heard of it, we must have met under that rock you're still living under. If you have read it, you're in large company.
But really, I've skipped ahead. Before this book I was just your average mom, self-employed and living apart from God. I knew Him, was born-again in 1996 but turned away to do it my way. Then this book found its way into my hands.
I couldn't get enough! It was so beautifully written, so eloquent and tender and raw. Anyway, to sum it up, it left me absolutely craving more of Him! I began praying again, and I haven't been able to stop reading and learning about Him since. Even when I was "born-again" I didn't have this insatiable appetite for His word.
Over the last few months, God has been really busy with me. Not in that sweet, subtle, gentle way... but in that let-me-smack-you-upside-the-back-of-the-head kind of way. I guess He knew that I can be a bit stubborn, so He customized His plan especially for a self-centered, fear-of-failure, procrastinator like me. I've started attending a new church, joined a Bible study group and am committed to studying Him daily. Part of my routine includes reading several blogs which led me here. I figured if I enjoy blogs so much, why not have one of my own.
I have been praying for God to show me how I can serve Him. I don't know if this is one way or not. I'm not very diligent at finishing what I start so maybe this is a challenge, a chance to show how the power of God can change people. So bear with me, encourage me, hold me accountable, and let me know what you think.
But really, I've skipped ahead. Before this book I was just your average mom, self-employed and living apart from God. I knew Him, was born-again in 1996 but turned away to do it my way. Then this book found its way into my hands.
I couldn't get enough! It was so beautifully written, so eloquent and tender and raw. Anyway, to sum it up, it left me absolutely craving more of Him! I began praying again, and I haven't been able to stop reading and learning about Him since. Even when I was "born-again" I didn't have this insatiable appetite for His word.
Over the last few months, God has been really busy with me. Not in that sweet, subtle, gentle way... but in that let-me-smack-you-upside-the-back-of-the-head kind of way. I guess He knew that I can be a bit stubborn, so He customized His plan especially for a self-centered, fear-of-failure, procrastinator like me. I've started attending a new church, joined a Bible study group and am committed to studying Him daily. Part of my routine includes reading several blogs which led me here. I figured if I enjoy blogs so much, why not have one of my own.
I have been praying for God to show me how I can serve Him. I don't know if this is one way or not. I'm not very diligent at finishing what I start so maybe this is a challenge, a chance to show how the power of God can change people. So bear with me, encourage me, hold me accountable, and let me know what you think.
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