This morning came with a very rude awakening. I walked downstairs to find our 9-foot tall Christmas tree lying across my family room floor...hardwood floor. Scattered all about were what seemed to be millions of tiny glass shards from all the broken ornaments. Fortunately, my brother-in-law was there to lift the tree back into its stand, while my daughter and I surveyed the mess.
Within seconds my heart began to sink as I discovered ornament after treasured ornament that couldn't be repaired or replaced. There was our Pecious Moments bride and groom ornament from the first Christmas we were married, there were "baby's first Christmas ornaments," a favorite Georgia Bulldog ornament (go Dawgs!), some of the hearts that I have given Joey each Christmas Eve, and a beautiful Lenox china angel that a very special lady gave me when I celebrated my first Christmas in my own apartment years ago. Also among the casualties were precious ornaments my children had made, as well as others that were given to us as gifts.
Once I began sweeping up the mess and throwing away the pieces, I couldn't hold back the tears. Every year I love pulling out the Christmas ornaments and recalling the special people and memories that so many of them bring to mind. It broke my heart to see so many of them going in the trash.
As I swept (and wept), I remembered a verse from the Christmas story that I have thought about many times the last couple of weeks. It's Luke 2:19, "But Mary treasured up all these things, and pondered them in her heart."
I realized that God was using that verse to remind me that life is all about relationships, relationships with him and with other people, not about things. When Jesus was born in a Bethlehem stable, there were no cameras to capture the moment. When the sheperds arrived to worship and share what the angels had told them, there was no one making a video for posterity. So Mary stored it all in her memory and in her heart, where they would be safe forever.
The broken ornaments were simply things that I treasured because they reminded me of special people, but it is the people themselves who are important. As we count down the last couple of hours to the New Year, I resolve to do more memory-making with the people I love. I want to build strong, lasting, loving relationships to treasure, both with my family and friends, and with my God. How wonderful that I get to ring in this New Year with my husband and children, my sister, my brother-in-law and my nephew. I am truly blessed! Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Christmas Anticipation
Wow, Christmas Eve! I just love this day. I love the feeling of anticipation it brings. When I was a child, of course it was anticipation over what the NEXT day would bring, all the gifts that would appear under the tree. There is still some of that to it, although now it's more about the anticipation of watching my children delight in what's under the tree. It is such a joy to see their faces and their excitement on Christmas morning as they discover their gifts.
I wonder if God gets to experience the same joy as I do as a parent on Christmas morning. How many people does he find delighting in his Son Jesus as they're tearing into wrapping paper and flinging bows across the floor. Do we get so caught up in the material gifts that we fail to delight in the most precious gift of all?
Sadly, I have to admit that Jesus is not the central figure in our Christmas morning celebration. Yes, we go and worship on Christmas Eve, but by Christmas morning it's all about what's under the tree. My family doesn't know this yet, but I think this year I will start a new tradition. Before we open our gifts, I think we'll hold hands around the tree and offer up a prayer of thanks for Jesus on his birthday. What a gift he is to us! He left a perfect home where he basked in glory with a perfect father to enter a sinful world full of imperfect people. It wasn't because he needed us, or because we had anything to offer him, or because he was lonely. The reason can be boiled down to one small word with huge meaning--love.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
And you know what else is amazing? Even though he has returned to his perfect home in heaven with his perfect father, he has promised to come again to bring believers to that perfect home, where we, too, will bask in glory with him and the Father. How could I not love a god like that? Now there is something to anticipate!
"Come, Lord Jesus." (Rev. 22:20) Merry Christmas!
I wonder if God gets to experience the same joy as I do as a parent on Christmas morning. How many people does he find delighting in his Son Jesus as they're tearing into wrapping paper and flinging bows across the floor. Do we get so caught up in the material gifts that we fail to delight in the most precious gift of all?
Sadly, I have to admit that Jesus is not the central figure in our Christmas morning celebration. Yes, we go and worship on Christmas Eve, but by Christmas morning it's all about what's under the tree. My family doesn't know this yet, but I think this year I will start a new tradition. Before we open our gifts, I think we'll hold hands around the tree and offer up a prayer of thanks for Jesus on his birthday. What a gift he is to us! He left a perfect home where he basked in glory with a perfect father to enter a sinful world full of imperfect people. It wasn't because he needed us, or because we had anything to offer him, or because he was lonely. The reason can be boiled down to one small word with huge meaning--love.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
And you know what else is amazing? Even though he has returned to his perfect home in heaven with his perfect father, he has promised to come again to bring believers to that perfect home, where we, too, will bask in glory with him and the Father. How could I not love a god like that? Now there is something to anticipate!
"Come, Lord Jesus." (Rev. 22:20) Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 22, 2008
From Praise to Peace
Recently, a pretty amazing lady named Sharon Glasgow came and spoke at a Christmas Tea that our women's ministry hosted at church. She gave this wonderfully inspiring talk which included details of how her family has endured some recent trials by continuing to praise God in the midst of them. By doing so, God has actually used those trials and the family's praises to bless and encourage others.
Before she could even get out of the church parking lot for her four-hour drive home that afternoon, Sharon received word that her family's barn had burned to the ground while she was giving this talk. I know that despite whatever hardship this might cause, Sharon will continue to honor God with praise. She has a deep and abiding faith that won't allow her to do anything else.
That's the kind of faith I want to have. It's the kind of faith that understands what the apostle Paul told the Philippians: "I have learned the secret to being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." (Phil. 4:11-12 NIV)
When our hope and strength is found in Christ, then there is true contentment. When we offer a sacrifice of praise during a crisis of life (and often in those times it is truly a sacrifice), he graciously rewards us with peace. This Christmas season, may the Prince of Peace rule in your heart.
Before she could even get out of the church parking lot for her four-hour drive home that afternoon, Sharon received word that her family's barn had burned to the ground while she was giving this talk. I know that despite whatever hardship this might cause, Sharon will continue to honor God with praise. She has a deep and abiding faith that won't allow her to do anything else.
That's the kind of faith I want to have. It's the kind of faith that understands what the apostle Paul told the Philippians: "I have learned the secret to being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." (Phil. 4:11-12 NIV)
When our hope and strength is found in Christ, then there is true contentment. When we offer a sacrifice of praise during a crisis of life (and often in those times it is truly a sacrifice), he graciously rewards us with peace. This Christmas season, may the Prince of Peace rule in your heart.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Get out the Vote
It's Election Day, have you voted yet? I haven't, but it is only 8:45 a.m. as I type this. I'll make it out a little later. My husband voted on his way to work this morning and said he had to stand in line for 45 minutes. I'm hoping if I go a little later it won't be as long. I'm definitely going though, even though I'm pretty sure I am battling pneumonia. I have a doctor's appointment later this afternoon.
The point is, exercising my right to vote is very important to me, as it should be to every American. A chance meeting with someone I have not seen in years drove the point home last weekend. I was at a fundraising dinner and she stopped me and said "Do you remember me, Tracy?" It turned out to be someone who was in a MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group I helped lead. She was only in it for a year and then moved out of state, but she remembered me because of my leadership role. She went on to explain that her time in that MOPS group impacted her so much that when she moved she looked for another group to join in her new town. When she couldn't find one, she started one. Now, because of a little ministry here in my little town, women and families in another state are being impacted for Christ. Isn't it great how God works?
Likewise, the actions we take today at the polls will have a ripple effect throughout the world. Think about that when you go to cast your vote. The decision you make in electing the leader of the free world will somehow make a difference in the lives of others around the world. Voting is that important!
No matter who wins this election, my prayer is that all Americans will rally behind the new president, and that our country, which has sadly become one nation under many gods, will unite to truly become "one nation, under God."
"1Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." Romans 13:1-2
The point is, exercising my right to vote is very important to me, as it should be to every American. A chance meeting with someone I have not seen in years drove the point home last weekend. I was at a fundraising dinner and she stopped me and said "Do you remember me, Tracy?" It turned out to be someone who was in a MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group I helped lead. She was only in it for a year and then moved out of state, but she remembered me because of my leadership role. She went on to explain that her time in that MOPS group impacted her so much that when she moved she looked for another group to join in her new town. When she couldn't find one, she started one. Now, because of a little ministry here in my little town, women and families in another state are being impacted for Christ. Isn't it great how God works?
Likewise, the actions we take today at the polls will have a ripple effect throughout the world. Think about that when you go to cast your vote. The decision you make in electing the leader of the free world will somehow make a difference in the lives of others around the world. Voting is that important!
No matter who wins this election, my prayer is that all Americans will rally behind the new president, and that our country, which has sadly become one nation under many gods, will unite to truly become "one nation, under God."
"1Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." Romans 13:1-2
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Gaining an Hour and Counting the Minutes
Hooray, daylight savings time has ended. Unfortunately, I missed out on that extra hour of sleep because we forgot to set back our clocks. I didn't realize it until after I had showered, put on my makeup and done my hair. I went to get my daughter up and she said "Why? I have an extra hour to sleep!" Bummer! I'm nursing a cold and could have really used some extra time in bed this morning.
Does anyone else feel like I do about the time change? It really annoys me, especially since they added extra weeks to daylight savings time. For about three weeks my child has to leave the house to stand at the bus stop in the dark. It just doesn't not seem to be in the interest of safety, if you ask me. And even though I do enjoy the longer hours of daylight in the summer, I really hate losing that hour in the spring.
I think we should just leave the days as God intended them. Ultimately we're all on his time anyway. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end."
It's not always an easy thing, being on God's time and waiting for him to act or to fulfill his promises. Moses murdered an Egyptian who was beating up on an Israelite then fled to a place called Midian. He lived there for the next 40 years, during which he became a husband, a father and a shepherd. He knew he had a higher calling from God, and complained that he felt like an alien in a foreign land. I wonder if Moses grew restless at all, waiting for God to fulfill his plans for him?
I returned two weeks ago from the Walk to Emmaus, a Holy Spirit-filled 72-hour weekend retreat, so to speak. As a member of the leadership team, every minute was jam-packed with ministry, and the whole time I knew I was living out God's call for me. I was concerned about how I would hold up physically because it is a really tiring weekend. I did get tired, but mostly it was exhilarating. Every minute of every day there is carefully timed out, and every minute counted for something important.
Since I've been home, I've gotten back into my normal routine, but there's a restlessness that wasn't there before. I know that God has a calling for me, and it's like I keep hearing him say "not now." I realize that he is growing me and molding me into the person that he designed me to be, and he is constantly humbling me and teaching me to fully rely on him. He will let me know when the time, his time, has come. It feels like I'm counting minutes, and oh how I want them to count. I just don't want to go backwards on the clock!
Does anyone else feel like I do about the time change? It really annoys me, especially since they added extra weeks to daylight savings time. For about three weeks my child has to leave the house to stand at the bus stop in the dark. It just doesn't not seem to be in the interest of safety, if you ask me. And even though I do enjoy the longer hours of daylight in the summer, I really hate losing that hour in the spring.
I think we should just leave the days as God intended them. Ultimately we're all on his time anyway. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end."
It's not always an easy thing, being on God's time and waiting for him to act or to fulfill his promises. Moses murdered an Egyptian who was beating up on an Israelite then fled to a place called Midian. He lived there for the next 40 years, during which he became a husband, a father and a shepherd. He knew he had a higher calling from God, and complained that he felt like an alien in a foreign land. I wonder if Moses grew restless at all, waiting for God to fulfill his plans for him?
I returned two weeks ago from the Walk to Emmaus, a Holy Spirit-filled 72-hour weekend retreat, so to speak. As a member of the leadership team, every minute was jam-packed with ministry, and the whole time I knew I was living out God's call for me. I was concerned about how I would hold up physically because it is a really tiring weekend. I did get tired, but mostly it was exhilarating. Every minute of every day there is carefully timed out, and every minute counted for something important.
Since I've been home, I've gotten back into my normal routine, but there's a restlessness that wasn't there before. I know that God has a calling for me, and it's like I keep hearing him say "not now." I realize that he is growing me and molding me into the person that he designed me to be, and he is constantly humbling me and teaching me to fully rely on him. He will let me know when the time, his time, has come. It feels like I'm counting minutes, and oh how I want them to count. I just don't want to go backwards on the clock!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Pressing In
It's a very busy day, but I just have to take a couple of minutes to brag on God. In just a few hours I will be leaving to serve on the Walk to Emmaus, a 72-hour Christian spiritual retreat. I've been concerned about how I will manage physically, because I have MS and I'm supposed to avoid stress and fatigue (yeah, right!). Anyway, the Walk is always tiring and as one of the four ALD's (assistant lay directors), I can pretty much bet there will be some stress involved at times. Therefore, I have prayed diligently that God will grant me rest when I need it and help me to remember to press harder into him when I start feeling stressed.
I am so thankful that I can enter into this weekend with confidence that God will do just as I have asked. I am confident of this because of the faithfulness he has shown thus far. When I was first asked to serve on this walk, I asked God over and over to work things out not only with my health, but also with my schedule. He has kept me healthy so far, and as for the schedule, I have been amazed! I didn't want to miss my girls' volleyball and soccer games or the other things we had on our calendar, and it seemed like the team training session and other things I had to attend just fit right in. We hardly skipped a beat! How often does that happen?? Usually there is conflict after conflict, but not this time.
Even today, with our kitchen renovation finally nearing completion, I had to arrange for pick-up of a new refrigerator we had gotten that wasn't working out. I also had to arrange for delivery of a new one. All that today with a million other things I had to take care of so that I can leave for the weekend. I prayed this morning that God would work it all out, and it was easy as pie. The pick-up guys arrived first (I didn't know which would end up getting here first), hauled off the "bad" fridge, and an hour later the new fridge came. The delivery guys even took care of installing all the shelves for me!
It might not seem like such a big deal, but I know that God heard my prayers and answered. He is helping me to avoid stress just as I asked. I know that he will continue to sustain me throughout the weekend.
When you respond in obedience to God's call to serve, trust that he will give you everything you need to carry out the task. He is good, he is in the details, and I believe that he is eager to reward faithful service.
With that, I'm off for a wonderful, Spirit-filled weekend!
I am so thankful that I can enter into this weekend with confidence that God will do just as I have asked. I am confident of this because of the faithfulness he has shown thus far. When I was first asked to serve on this walk, I asked God over and over to work things out not only with my health, but also with my schedule. He has kept me healthy so far, and as for the schedule, I have been amazed! I didn't want to miss my girls' volleyball and soccer games or the other things we had on our calendar, and it seemed like the team training session and other things I had to attend just fit right in. We hardly skipped a beat! How often does that happen?? Usually there is conflict after conflict, but not this time.
Even today, with our kitchen renovation finally nearing completion, I had to arrange for pick-up of a new refrigerator we had gotten that wasn't working out. I also had to arrange for delivery of a new one. All that today with a million other things I had to take care of so that I can leave for the weekend. I prayed this morning that God would work it all out, and it was easy as pie. The pick-up guys arrived first (I didn't know which would end up getting here first), hauled off the "bad" fridge, and an hour later the new fridge came. The delivery guys even took care of installing all the shelves for me!
It might not seem like such a big deal, but I know that God heard my prayers and answered. He is helping me to avoid stress just as I asked. I know that he will continue to sustain me throughout the weekend.
When you respond in obedience to God's call to serve, trust that he will give you everything you need to carry out the task. He is good, he is in the details, and I believe that he is eager to reward faithful service.
With that, I'm off for a wonderful, Spirit-filled weekend!
Friday, September 26, 2008
God the Party-Crasher
Welcome to Tracy's Grace Space. I named this blog my "grace space" because I wanted to somehow record all the beautiful acts of God's grace that I was experiencing at the time. When I started the blog, I had just been diagnosed with MS, and through the loving acts of friends, family and God himself, God reminded me over and over again that his grace is sufficient for me.
That is why I just have to tell you about what happened today. I've been feeling all out of sorts due to our kitchen renovation, and today I found myself just meandering around Wal-Mart of all places. I really can't stand Wal-Mart, but there were a couple of things I needed to pick up and I really didn't want to hang around the house with all the construction noise and dust from hardwood floor sanding. It was lunchtime, and our Wal-Mart has a Subway sandwich shop inside, so I decided on a whim to eat while I was there.
As I walked up to the counter, I was greeted by a woman I've known for some time, though not very well. We said hello and bemoaned the rainy weather, and after paying for her sub she turned for a quick wave goodbye. I said goodbye and continued to wait for my order. Once my sub was prepared and wrapped, I took out my wallet to pay. Imagine my surprise when the cashier said it wasn't necessary!
"The lady before you paid for your sub," he said. "She told me to add it on to her bill."
Grace. There I was, all grumpy and feeling pitiful over not being able to be at home on a nasty rainy day, forced to spend time in Wal-Mart and eat out once again all because I'm getting a beautiful new kitchen. What a terrible life I lead! And God chooses to show me grace anyway.
Isn't that just like him? The God of the universe reached down and crashed my little pity party on a chilly rainy day, penetrating it like a warm ray of sunshine. I've been smiling ever since!
That is why I just have to tell you about what happened today. I've been feeling all out of sorts due to our kitchen renovation, and today I found myself just meandering around Wal-Mart of all places. I really can't stand Wal-Mart, but there were a couple of things I needed to pick up and I really didn't want to hang around the house with all the construction noise and dust from hardwood floor sanding. It was lunchtime, and our Wal-Mart has a Subway sandwich shop inside, so I decided on a whim to eat while I was there.
As I walked up to the counter, I was greeted by a woman I've known for some time, though not very well. We said hello and bemoaned the rainy weather, and after paying for her sub she turned for a quick wave goodbye. I said goodbye and continued to wait for my order. Once my sub was prepared and wrapped, I took out my wallet to pay. Imagine my surprise when the cashier said it wasn't necessary!
"The lady before you paid for your sub," he said. "She told me to add it on to her bill."
Grace. There I was, all grumpy and feeling pitiful over not being able to be at home on a nasty rainy day, forced to spend time in Wal-Mart and eat out once again all because I'm getting a beautiful new kitchen. What a terrible life I lead! And God chooses to show me grace anyway.
Isn't that just like him? The God of the universe reached down and crashed my little pity party on a chilly rainy day, penetrating it like a warm ray of sunshine. I've been smiling ever since!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
No Pain, No Gain
Greetings, my bloggy friends!
Once again, I'm back after an absence that is longer than I would have liked. This time I'm blaming it on the kitchen. No, not because I'm exercising my gourmet culinary skills, anyone who knows me knows that I don't have any of those! :O) It's actually due to the renovation of the kitchen that is now two weeks under way. Once it started, it didn't take me long to figure out that it was in my best interests to stay away from the house as much as possible. Sensory overload sets in quickly, what with all the banging, drilling, hammering, etc. Today they are sanding the hardwood floor. I left as soon as they started for a couple of hours, thinking it would be finished when I returned. Wrong! They are taking a lunch break, however, so I thought I would jump on here quickly before I have to leave again.
If you've ever suffered through a kitchen renovation, you will understand completely when I say that I am operating under the "no pain, no gain" rule. I know that my kitchen will be lovely and so much more efficient once it is all done. But getting to that point is no picnic! At least not a fun picnic anyway, as we may be eating a lot of picnic meals in the backyard for the next few days! My refrigerator is currently in my dining room, the dishwasher is in the middle of the kitchen floor, and the sink is completely gone. There is a microwave and stove, I just don't know if I can get to them, or if I even want to try! The whole process is making me feel terribly out of sorts. The rest of our lives are going on as usual and our schedules are still the same, but our home is a disaster!
A little while ago as I watched them sand through the layers of old, worn out finish and grime, I could totally identify with the floor (I know, I'm wierd, but stay with me.) The refinishing process is messy and unpleasant, but I know that when it is sanded clean and the new finish is applied, it will bring out the rich tones of the wood and the floor will shine more beautifully than before. Likewise, I know I can shine more brightly for the Lord when I submit to his discipline and his work of rooting out some sin in my life. It might be messy and unpleasant, but I know it will be worth it.
The sanders are starting back up, so I'm outta here. No pain, no gain, right?
Once again, I'm back after an absence that is longer than I would have liked. This time I'm blaming it on the kitchen. No, not because I'm exercising my gourmet culinary skills, anyone who knows me knows that I don't have any of those! :O) It's actually due to the renovation of the kitchen that is now two weeks under way. Once it started, it didn't take me long to figure out that it was in my best interests to stay away from the house as much as possible. Sensory overload sets in quickly, what with all the banging, drilling, hammering, etc. Today they are sanding the hardwood floor. I left as soon as they started for a couple of hours, thinking it would be finished when I returned. Wrong! They are taking a lunch break, however, so I thought I would jump on here quickly before I have to leave again.
If you've ever suffered through a kitchen renovation, you will understand completely when I say that I am operating under the "no pain, no gain" rule. I know that my kitchen will be lovely and so much more efficient once it is all done. But getting to that point is no picnic! At least not a fun picnic anyway, as we may be eating a lot of picnic meals in the backyard for the next few days! My refrigerator is currently in my dining room, the dishwasher is in the middle of the kitchen floor, and the sink is completely gone. There is a microwave and stove, I just don't know if I can get to them, or if I even want to try! The whole process is making me feel terribly out of sorts. The rest of our lives are going on as usual and our schedules are still the same, but our home is a disaster!
A little while ago as I watched them sand through the layers of old, worn out finish and grime, I could totally identify with the floor (I know, I'm wierd, but stay with me.) The refinishing process is messy and unpleasant, but I know that when it is sanded clean and the new finish is applied, it will bring out the rich tones of the wood and the floor will shine more beautifully than before. Likewise, I know I can shine more brightly for the Lord when I submit to his discipline and his work of rooting out some sin in my life. It might be messy and unpleasant, but I know it will be worth it.
The sanders are starting back up, so I'm outta here. No pain, no gain, right?
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Birthday Reflections
I just have to say it publicly, I really love my husband. We celebrated his 45th birthday last Thursday, and that morning I spent time in prayer just thanking God for him. I'm grateful for his generous spirit, his compassionate and loving nature, his work ethic, his sense of humor, his wonderful way with children of all ages (he's a big kid himself, really), and so much more, not the least of which is the fact that he is an accountant and able to balance a checkbook (it's a really good thing for our family that one of us can). I thank God every day for blessing my life by putting Joey and me together!
One thing I'm especially grateful for is Joey's dedication to being the spiritual head of our family. Tonight as he was traveling home from a Promisekeepers conference, I couldn't help reflecting that it has not been that many years ago since I was praying earnestly for that very thing. After he basically told me to back off at one point, I realized that all I could do was pray and the rest was up to God. Boy did God deliver! I won't go into all the circumstances and events leading up to Joey's change of heart, that is his story to tell. But I will say that God's timing is always perfect, and he began growing our marriage in amazing ways when we decided to put God at the center of it and seek him first together.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 says "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Since my MS diagnosis last January, Joey has been such a rock for me. Having him to love me, comfort me and take care of me when I need it has given me more strength than I ever could have found on my own. And when he holds my hand and offers up prayers on my behalf, I know that I will not be overpowered.
So happy birthday to you, Joey. I love you and I thank God for you.
One thing I'm especially grateful for is Joey's dedication to being the spiritual head of our family. Tonight as he was traveling home from a Promisekeepers conference, I couldn't help reflecting that it has not been that many years ago since I was praying earnestly for that very thing. After he basically told me to back off at one point, I realized that all I could do was pray and the rest was up to God. Boy did God deliver! I won't go into all the circumstances and events leading up to Joey's change of heart, that is his story to tell. But I will say that God's timing is always perfect, and he began growing our marriage in amazing ways when we decided to put God at the center of it and seek him first together.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 says "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Since my MS diagnosis last January, Joey has been such a rock for me. Having him to love me, comfort me and take care of me when I need it has given me more strength than I ever could have found on my own. And when he holds my hand and offers up prayers on my behalf, I know that I will not be overpowered.
So happy birthday to you, Joey. I love you and I thank God for you.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Shelter in the Storm
Greetings! To those of you who have become regular readers of my blog, let me start this post with an apology! I have been such a slacker about blogging lately. Not because I've lost interest or haven't wanted to, it's just that other things have been demanding my attention. Anyway, please forgive me. It's good to be back!
Today there was a story I just had to share. As I knelt down to pray this morning, thunder began to rumble off in the distance, and soon the rain that had been falling lightly began coming down harder and harder. As it did, our golden retriever, Ginger, who is terrified of thunderstorms, ran to her usual hiding place behind the couch.
As I continued my conversation with God (out loud), the thunder got louder, and even with my eyes closed I could see the flashes of lightening. Next thing I knew, Ginger came scurrying out from behind the couch. She tucked her head against my leg and then laid down as close to me as she could get. I held her close and stroked her, and she seemed to calm down, even as the storm rumbled on outside.
I couldn't help but wonder whether Ginger sensed the nearness of our God, her Creator? I have never known her to come out from behind the couch in a thunderstorm, even when the whole family is in the room trying to console her! I call her Ginger the chicken-dog. Psalm 61:4 says "I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings." When I started my prayers, I had asked God to come and sit with me. Do you suppose Ginger came out because she felt the safety of his presence? Feel free to post a comment, I'd love to know what you think!
Today there was a story I just had to share. As I knelt down to pray this morning, thunder began to rumble off in the distance, and soon the rain that had been falling lightly began coming down harder and harder. As it did, our golden retriever, Ginger, who is terrified of thunderstorms, ran to her usual hiding place behind the couch.
As I continued my conversation with God (out loud), the thunder got louder, and even with my eyes closed I could see the flashes of lightening. Next thing I knew, Ginger came scurrying out from behind the couch. She tucked her head against my leg and then laid down as close to me as she could get. I held her close and stroked her, and she seemed to calm down, even as the storm rumbled on outside.
I couldn't help but wonder whether Ginger sensed the nearness of our God, her Creator? I have never known her to come out from behind the couch in a thunderstorm, even when the whole family is in the room trying to console her! I call her Ginger the chicken-dog. Psalm 61:4 says "I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings." When I started my prayers, I had asked God to come and sit with me. Do you suppose Ginger came out because she felt the safety of his presence? Feel free to post a comment, I'd love to know what you think!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Serving Lessons from the Volleyball Court
I can't believe it. Summer break has flown by and the kids are back in school. Yesterday was the first day and it was so good to see them both come home with smiles on their faces. Hannah had been especially nervous, but she seems to really like her teacher and her class.
Kaelie was really eager to get back to school, in part because she made the volleyball team...hooray! We were so excited for her. Today they had a scrimmage and won, a great way to start the season. Kaelie was one of the two starting setters and it was so much fun to watch her play.
I'm so proud of Kaelie because she has worked really hard to earn that starting position. Last year she tried out for the team but didn't make it. Instead, she was offered the chance to be a manager. She was so disappointed and upset, but she chose to get past the hurt and take the opportunity to at least work out with the team and hone her skills, even though she would never get to wear a uniform or take to the court for games.
There were days when being a manager was really fun and she thoroughly enjoyed it. There were also days when she came home saying she felt like some of the girls on the team treated her like a slave and a second-class citizen. Nonetheless, she decided that she would work hard and be the best manager she could be. She set a goal for making the team this year, and after playing in a travel league through the winter and attending a volleyball camp this summer, she saw her hard work pay off.
In my opinion, Kaelie's experience with being a manager taught her something even more valuable than volleyball skills. It taught her life lessons in humility and serving. 1 Peter 5:5 says "...All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble'."
During her time as manager, Kaelie swallowed her pride over and over, doing her best to work and serve for the greater good of the team. She was rewarded by getting to be a part of a remarkable undefeated season, and ultimately by making the team this year.
Oh, if only we in the church would just learn that lesson. It is so easy to gripe and complain about how the same people do all the work all the time, or to be jealous about someone else's ministry or the growth of the church down the street. Think of how the world would change if, as Paul urged the Philippians, we would only in humility consider others better than ourselves. Talk about a winning way to serve...better than any ace serve on the volleyball court! :)
Kaelie was really eager to get back to school, in part because she made the volleyball team...hooray! We were so excited for her. Today they had a scrimmage and won, a great way to start the season. Kaelie was one of the two starting setters and it was so much fun to watch her play.
I'm so proud of Kaelie because she has worked really hard to earn that starting position. Last year she tried out for the team but didn't make it. Instead, she was offered the chance to be a manager. She was so disappointed and upset, but she chose to get past the hurt and take the opportunity to at least work out with the team and hone her skills, even though she would never get to wear a uniform or take to the court for games.
There were days when being a manager was really fun and she thoroughly enjoyed it. There were also days when she came home saying she felt like some of the girls on the team treated her like a slave and a second-class citizen. Nonetheless, she decided that she would work hard and be the best manager she could be. She set a goal for making the team this year, and after playing in a travel league through the winter and attending a volleyball camp this summer, she saw her hard work pay off.
In my opinion, Kaelie's experience with being a manager taught her something even more valuable than volleyball skills. It taught her life lessons in humility and serving. 1 Peter 5:5 says "...All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble'."
During her time as manager, Kaelie swallowed her pride over and over, doing her best to work and serve for the greater good of the team. She was rewarded by getting to be a part of a remarkable undefeated season, and ultimately by making the team this year.
Oh, if only we in the church would just learn that lesson. It is so easy to gripe and complain about how the same people do all the work all the time, or to be jealous about someone else's ministry or the growth of the church down the street. Think of how the world would change if, as Paul urged the Philippians, we would only in humility consider others better than ourselves. Talk about a winning way to serve...better than any ace serve on the volleyball court! :)
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Lost and Found
Last night as I sat here blogging about my girls getting their class assignments for the year, God reminded me of Jeremiah 33:3: "Call to me and I will tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." I was thinking of it in terms of teachers, and relating it to how blessed we are to have Jesus as our ultimate, unchanging teacher. (see yesterday's "Teachers Revealed" post)
Meanwhile, bedtime drama was going on upstairs with Hannah. She had not been able to find her wallet since the day before, and she had all her money and a mall gift card in it. She was upset and worried, and also fearful that we would be angry with her because we've told her over and over not to take her whole wallet and all her money to the pool, only a couple of dollars at a time. She was pretty certain she had left it at the pool, however it did not turn up there in the lost and found.
I finally got her calmed down and off to bed, reassuring her that we would find it today. This morning during my quiet time with the Lord, I was again reminded of Jeremiah 33:3. "Lord," I prayed, "you promise that when we call to you that you will tell us great and unsearchable things we do not know. I'd say Hannah's wallet is pretty unsearchable because we've searched high and low and still don't know where it is. But you do know Lord, so I'm asking you to reveal its location to us today."
A couple of hours later, I decided to check Hannah's backpack that she had taken to the pool the day the wallet went missing. She had gotten annoyed with me earlier when I asked her if she had checked it thoroughly, snapping "only like a million times!" Sure enough, my hand went straight to the wallet in the second pocket I opened. She was greatly relieved, and also a little red in the face.
The best part of the whole episode was that I was able to share with her right then and there about my prayer that morning, and how good and faithful God was to lead us to the wallet so quickly. How often we fail to take the so-called "little things" to the Lord in prayer. But he loves us so much that he wants to be involved in all aspects of our lives, not just the "big things." What a beautiful demonstration of love from our Heavenly Father to his daughter, and all it took was a "call to him."
Meanwhile, bedtime drama was going on upstairs with Hannah. She had not been able to find her wallet since the day before, and she had all her money and a mall gift card in it. She was upset and worried, and also fearful that we would be angry with her because we've told her over and over not to take her whole wallet and all her money to the pool, only a couple of dollars at a time. She was pretty certain she had left it at the pool, however it did not turn up there in the lost and found.
I finally got her calmed down and off to bed, reassuring her that we would find it today. This morning during my quiet time with the Lord, I was again reminded of Jeremiah 33:3. "Lord," I prayed, "you promise that when we call to you that you will tell us great and unsearchable things we do not know. I'd say Hannah's wallet is pretty unsearchable because we've searched high and low and still don't know where it is. But you do know Lord, so I'm asking you to reveal its location to us today."
A couple of hours later, I decided to check Hannah's backpack that she had taken to the pool the day the wallet went missing. She had gotten annoyed with me earlier when I asked her if she had checked it thoroughly, snapping "only like a million times!" Sure enough, my hand went straight to the wallet in the second pocket I opened. She was greatly relieved, and also a little red in the face.
The best part of the whole episode was that I was able to share with her right then and there about my prayer that morning, and how good and faithful God was to lead us to the wallet so quickly. How often we fail to take the so-called "little things" to the Lord in prayer. But he loves us so much that he wants to be involved in all aspects of our lives, not just the "big things." What a beautiful demonstration of love from our Heavenly Father to his daughter, and all it took was a "call to him."
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Teachers Revealed
Well, it has become obvious that it is time for the kids to return to school. It's like pulling teeth to get them to go to the pool. Today I actually had to tell Hannah that she didn't have a choice in the matter. I had a lot of things that needed to get done, Kaelie had to go to volleyball practice, and "you're going to the pool whether you like it or not," I said. She and her friend ended up going and having a good time, but they are definitely ready to get back to the structure of the school routine (and so am I)!
Last week the big excitement was over the classroom assignments. They were both checking the mail every day for the much-anticipated letters. Kaelie was very happy about her teachers and her schedule, and Hannah was excited to get the teacher she was hoping for. She also has a couple of good buddies in her class, so it appears that all is well.
I can remember the anxiety over the first day of school so well. When I was a kid it seemed impossible to fall asleep the night before. I would lie awake fretting over adjusting to new teachers, whether they would be nice or mean, how much homework they would give, and of course, figuring out what I could and couldn't get away with. :) Now I get to relive it all over again with my girls...I'm just glad I don't have to be the one in the classroom!
It's so wonderfully reassuring that I do have a teacher who is always a constant. Hebrews 13:8 says "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." I believe that because I believe Jesus when he says "I am the way, the truth and the life." Truth is truth, it doesn't change. If it did, how could we ever know what really is true and what isn't?
The God of the Universe invites us to sit at his feet and learn from him! Wow, can you even imagine a better teacher?! I love the invitation he offered through the prophet Jeremiah:
"This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name: 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.' (Jeremiah 33:2-3)
Doesn't that sound wonderfully mysterious and exciting?! The "great and unsearchable things you do not know" part really gets me pumped because I'm a former news reporter and I have a natural curiosity and a burning desire to know stuff! This invitation is marvelous to me because it makes me feel like God wants to share his secrets with me. I believe he does...and all he wants me to do is call to him! I can call to him through prayer or by digging into his word, either way it does require some action on my part. No anxiety though, this is some teaching (and a teacher) I can get excited about!
Last week the big excitement was over the classroom assignments. They were both checking the mail every day for the much-anticipated letters. Kaelie was very happy about her teachers and her schedule, and Hannah was excited to get the teacher she was hoping for. She also has a couple of good buddies in her class, so it appears that all is well.
I can remember the anxiety over the first day of school so well. When I was a kid it seemed impossible to fall asleep the night before. I would lie awake fretting over adjusting to new teachers, whether they would be nice or mean, how much homework they would give, and of course, figuring out what I could and couldn't get away with. :) Now I get to relive it all over again with my girls...I'm just glad I don't have to be the one in the classroom!
It's so wonderfully reassuring that I do have a teacher who is always a constant. Hebrews 13:8 says "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." I believe that because I believe Jesus when he says "I am the way, the truth and the life." Truth is truth, it doesn't change. If it did, how could we ever know what really is true and what isn't?
The God of the Universe invites us to sit at his feet and learn from him! Wow, can you even imagine a better teacher?! I love the invitation he offered through the prophet Jeremiah:
"This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name: 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.' (Jeremiah 33:2-3)
Doesn't that sound wonderfully mysterious and exciting?! The "great and unsearchable things you do not know" part really gets me pumped because I'm a former news reporter and I have a natural curiosity and a burning desire to know stuff! This invitation is marvelous to me because it makes me feel like God wants to share his secrets with me. I believe he does...and all he wants me to do is call to him! I can call to him through prayer or by digging into his word, either way it does require some action on my part. No anxiety though, this is some teaching (and a teacher) I can get excited about!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
A Mothering Mishap
Not one of my better parenting moments, to be sure. Just after walking in the door from a lunch meeting this afternoon, there is drama in the house over the kids' afternoon plans. I, in my motherly wisdom, conclude that Kaelie has manipulated Hannah and tried to orchestrate things to go her way. I angrily tell Kaelie that I don't appreciate her attitude, her unwillingness to be helpful long enough for me to attend my meeting and Joey to get the lawn mowed, or the way that she has manipulated her sister, to which she angrily responds "how have I manipulated my sister?" before storming into her bedroom.
It was the perfect demonstration of Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." If I had only taken a gentle approach to the situation the whole episode surely would have gone a different, and better way.
It only took a few minutes for me to start feeling guilty. I had not even been home, for heaven's sake. How in the world could I know what had transpired or what the kids had said to one another? I had been totally unfair in accusing Kaelie that way. I apologized to her, of course, and she gave me a hug and a kiss and assured me of her forgiveness.
Contrary to popular belief, we moms do not have eyes in the back of our heads and even though we sometimes think we do, we really don't know everything. I'm so grateful that our Heavenly Father does! Proverbs 15:3 says "The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good." Because of that, I can trust his judgement to be right and his discipline to be fair. I just need to remember to seek his wisdom before dishing out my own judgement and discipline where my kids are concerned!
It was the perfect demonstration of Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." If I had only taken a gentle approach to the situation the whole episode surely would have gone a different, and better way.
It only took a few minutes for me to start feeling guilty. I had not even been home, for heaven's sake. How in the world could I know what had transpired or what the kids had said to one another? I had been totally unfair in accusing Kaelie that way. I apologized to her, of course, and she gave me a hug and a kiss and assured me of her forgiveness.
Contrary to popular belief, we moms do not have eyes in the back of our heads and even though we sometimes think we do, we really don't know everything. I'm so grateful that our Heavenly Father does! Proverbs 15:3 says "The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good." Because of that, I can trust his judgement to be right and his discipline to be fair. I just need to remember to seek his wisdom before dishing out my own judgement and discipline where my kids are concerned!
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Family Ties
Last night was so much fun. My neice Molly is in a band called the Barrel House Mamas and they were in town to perform at Steppin' Out, our local summer street festival. The band is from Asheville, NC and is absolutely terrific. I'm trying to learn how to put a link to one of their songs in my blog, but until I do, I'll just encourage you to visit http://barrelhousemamas.com/, click on the music tab and take a listen.
Anyway, we hadn't seen Molly since she and the "Mamas" were in town for Steppin' Out last year, so it was really great to get together with her. Not only did we get to enjoy hearing them sing, but we went to dinner afterwards and were able to spend some good time just catching up.
My in-laws were also with us, along with our nephew Bobby. Bobby is 13 and lives in Macau, China, and we had not seen him since last summer either. My girls have been very excited that Bobby is going to be spending a few days at our house with us.
I got to thinking how cool it is that these two special people are in our lives. Molly is not related to us by blood. She's actually my step-neice, the daughter of my sister's husband from his first marriage. Bobby is not a blood relative either. He is the son of my husband's brother's wife. None of that matters though. We don't look at them and think they're not related to us by blood. We just look at them and think how happy we are to see our neice and nephew who are part of our family and who we love very much. We're grateful that we get to spend time with them, and that God brought us together in a way that only he could have arranged.
Wouldn't it be great if we could get as excited as Christians about siezing oppportunities to spend time with our brothers and sisters in Christ? Why don't we put the same emphasis on Christian fellowship as we do spending time with our families? Christians ARE blood relatives, by the way, adopted into God's family by the blood of Christ.
Tomorrow is Sunday, and my family will be attending Sunday school and church as we do each week. I look forward to that dedicated worship time each week, and I also look forward to the opportunity to connect with my church family. I'm also in a weekly prayer and accountability group with several other women. We share with each other about how we have experienced God at work in our lives, the ways in which our faith has been tested, and what we are doing or should be doing to minister to others. We laugh, cry and pray together, and encourage one another in our faith journeys. I don't know what I would do without these opportunities to be in fellowship with these sisters in Christ.
The summer is always difficult to meet on a regular basis because of vacations, trips, etc. But I also know people who just decide to "take a break" in the summer. Instead of getting up for Sunday school and church, they may choose to sleep in on Sundays or go do other things. You can always tell on Sundays when school has started back up because the pews are full again!
Forgive me if I sound judgemental here, it is not intentional. I totally understand the need for taking a break from the busyness of life...I've even blogged about it! I just miss seeing those faces I have come to love and who are a source of encouragement to me in Sunday school and church. I hope that perhaps my family is missed as well on those days when we are absent. I want to make fellowship with my brothers and sisters in Christ as much a priority as time spent with my extended family. I guess you can take this as a challenge to do the same.
"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (Hebrews 10:25)
Anyway, we hadn't seen Molly since she and the "Mamas" were in town for Steppin' Out last year, so it was really great to get together with her. Not only did we get to enjoy hearing them sing, but we went to dinner afterwards and were able to spend some good time just catching up.
My in-laws were also with us, along with our nephew Bobby. Bobby is 13 and lives in Macau, China, and we had not seen him since last summer either. My girls have been very excited that Bobby is going to be spending a few days at our house with us.
I got to thinking how cool it is that these two special people are in our lives. Molly is not related to us by blood. She's actually my step-neice, the daughter of my sister's husband from his first marriage. Bobby is not a blood relative either. He is the son of my husband's brother's wife. None of that matters though. We don't look at them and think they're not related to us by blood. We just look at them and think how happy we are to see our neice and nephew who are part of our family and who we love very much. We're grateful that we get to spend time with them, and that God brought us together in a way that only he could have arranged.
Wouldn't it be great if we could get as excited as Christians about siezing oppportunities to spend time with our brothers and sisters in Christ? Why don't we put the same emphasis on Christian fellowship as we do spending time with our families? Christians ARE blood relatives, by the way, adopted into God's family by the blood of Christ.
Tomorrow is Sunday, and my family will be attending Sunday school and church as we do each week. I look forward to that dedicated worship time each week, and I also look forward to the opportunity to connect with my church family. I'm also in a weekly prayer and accountability group with several other women. We share with each other about how we have experienced God at work in our lives, the ways in which our faith has been tested, and what we are doing or should be doing to minister to others. We laugh, cry and pray together, and encourage one another in our faith journeys. I don't know what I would do without these opportunities to be in fellowship with these sisters in Christ.
The summer is always difficult to meet on a regular basis because of vacations, trips, etc. But I also know people who just decide to "take a break" in the summer. Instead of getting up for Sunday school and church, they may choose to sleep in on Sundays or go do other things. You can always tell on Sundays when school has started back up because the pews are full again!
Forgive me if I sound judgemental here, it is not intentional. I totally understand the need for taking a break from the busyness of life...I've even blogged about it! I just miss seeing those faces I have come to love and who are a source of encouragement to me in Sunday school and church. I hope that perhaps my family is missed as well on those days when we are absent. I want to make fellowship with my brothers and sisters in Christ as much a priority as time spent with my extended family. I guess you can take this as a challenge to do the same.
"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (Hebrews 10:25)
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Gifts and Grace
Yesterday my daughter Hannah had to get a birthday gift for a friend who was celebrating her 10th birthday with a bowling party. I gave Hannah $15 and told her that was the limit. I had to set a limit because both my girls really seem to enjoy giving gifts to their friends. They will buy one thing, and then see something else and want to add that to the gift as well. While I appreciate their generous hearts, I have to draw the line because (call me cheap) I just don't think children need to be spending $30 on other children's birthday presents. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that the price doesn't mean much when it's my money they're spending! :) However, Kaelie is a little older and usually purchases gifts with her own money now.
Thinking about my kids' desires to lavish gifts upon their friends also led me to reflect upon God's desires to lavish gifts upon us. What's so awesome about God is that his gift-giving knows no limits! His greatest gift to us was the costliest of all, the gift of his son Jesus Christ. "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding." (Ephesians 1:7-8)
So often, the gifts we give are in response to an invitation. If we are invited to a birthday party or a wedding, it is customary to bring a birthday or wedding gift. If we are invited to some other party, it is good manners to bring a hostess gift. What's so awesome about God is that he does both the inviting AND the giving. Through the gift of his son Jesus, God invites us to be in fellowship with him now and for eternity. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) Imagine the depths of God's love for us to offer up such an amazing gift with no obligation on our part other than to accept it! "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." (Eph. 2:8)
Grace. A tiny little one-syllable word with huge, life-changing implications. It is a free gift extended to each of us. We readily accept birthday gifts, wedding gifts, hostess gifts, etc. Why is it so hard to accept God's free gift of grace?
"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Thinking about my kids' desires to lavish gifts upon their friends also led me to reflect upon God's desires to lavish gifts upon us. What's so awesome about God is that his gift-giving knows no limits! His greatest gift to us was the costliest of all, the gift of his son Jesus Christ. "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding." (Ephesians 1:7-8)
So often, the gifts we give are in response to an invitation. If we are invited to a birthday party or a wedding, it is customary to bring a birthday or wedding gift. If we are invited to some other party, it is good manners to bring a hostess gift. What's so awesome about God is that he does both the inviting AND the giving. Through the gift of his son Jesus, God invites us to be in fellowship with him now and for eternity. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) Imagine the depths of God's love for us to offer up such an amazing gift with no obligation on our part other than to accept it! "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God." (Eph. 2:8)
Grace. A tiny little one-syllable word with huge, life-changing implications. It is a free gift extended to each of us. We readily accept birthday gifts, wedding gifts, hostess gifts, etc. Why is it so hard to accept God's free gift of grace?
"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Monday, July 21, 2008
Stuck at Home Base
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thes. 5:16-18)
God gave me this verse tonight while I was sitting on my front porch, all alone, feeling sorry for myself. You see, while I am sitting here typing these words Kaelie is playing in the finals of the state Dixie softball tournament and I am missing it. Not by choice, mind you, but because I'm on the DL ("disabled list," a term I picked up from years of listening to my husband talk baseball).
Yesterday morning I woke up and I could feel the familiar pain beginning in the back of my neck. I tried to be careful all day, but the longer I sat in the bleachers cheering the team on as they won last night in the semi-finals, the more painful it became. Today it has been excruciating, and my doctor thinks my herniated disc is rearing its ugly head. His office is less than a mile from my house, and every bump in the road on the way there today was agonizing. I knew there was no way I could handle the two-hour round trip between home and the softball tournament.
My sweet Kaelie was so understanding and we made Joey promise to call at the end of every inning with updates. In fact, he just called to let me know that it is scoreless after the first. Oh, how I wish I was there! These kinds of opportunities don't come around often in a child's life, if at all. I think that's why God gave me this verse. It is, after all, HER opportunity, not mine. She's going to sieze it and cherish it whether I'm there or not, as she should. I will find joy in knowing that she gets a chance to play for a state title. I will pray for her and her team, for their safety and sportsmanship, and despite my painful circumstances at the moment, I will give thanks that she is healthy and strong and able to get out there and compete.
What an amazing God we serve! He loves us way too much to let us sit around and wallow in self-pity. Don't ya just love him?!
Is there a time that he has pulled you out of a pit of self-pity? Click on "comments" at the bottom of this post and tell me about it...I love to hear other peoples' stories about the things God has done!
Oh, just to update. Hannah's district championship team also got to play in the state tournament for the 9-10 year-old age division. After losing their first game, they came back for a strong win in the second. They were eliminated on Saturday, however, after losing their third game. They were heartbroken, but we were so very proud of them for making it to state and giving it their all! And Hannah was able to close out her season with a great hit in the last game, scoring the first of her team's two runs!
Okay, soon I'm going to need toothpicks to prop my eyelids open. I guess the painkillers and muscle relaxers are kicking in so I better go. Who knows what I might write... :)A quick footnote: Joey and Kaelie just called to let me know they lost. The final score was 0-6 against a team that was undefeated throughout the tournament. Apparently Kaelie made an awesome leaning, backhanded catch in left field to end an inning...wish I had seen that! Sooo, State runners-up! Not to shabby if you ask me! Way to go Blacksburg!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Cleaning Up
Great news...my house is clean! I'm sure you couldn't possibly care less, but it sure makes me happy! But wait, it gets even better. I didn't have to clean it! For the last couple of months we have had a very nice young lady named Ginny coming to clean every other week. I can't tell you what a huge help that has been. It has gotten harder for me to keep up with it, and even though the girls help out, they're not good with deep-down scrubbing and Joey has had to carry way too much of the load.
Yesterday was Ginny's fourth time here, and when I walked into my clean house in the afternoon it just felt so good. There was no clutter (because I ran around in a frenzy in the morning trying to declutter so she could actually find the surfaces), no dirt, and no stress that is usually brought on by the sight of all the mess and not having time or energy to clean it! It was so free-ing and I felt so grateful.
The first time Ginny came was actually somewhat embarrassing. The place was so dirty that it took her about 5 hours to get it all scrubbed down, and that was after another lady had already spent a day cleaning several weeks before. Both of them assured me that it was definitely not the worst they had seen, but I have my doubts! :)
After those initial visits, things have definitely gotten better. Now that the layers of grime have been removed, Ginny gets the job done in about three hours. We're also getting better about not letting things pile up so that even the pre-cleaning de-cluttering goes faster as well.
As I woke up to my nice clean room this morning, the Lord showed me a parallel to the sin in my life. Ouch! Not something I want to think about when I'm trying to start a new day in my nice clean house. As I stepped into my clean shower, God let me know that no amount of scrubbing my body could do anything about any grimy build-up in my heart. I can hire someone to beautify my house. I can hire someone to give me a pedicure or put highlights in my hair to beautify my physical appearance, but only the Lord can beautify my heart. Only he can strip away the layers of grime or guilt or sin or shame.
Hebrews 12:11 says "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."
I truly detest cleaning. For me, it is absolute drudgery. I guess that's why this parallel made so much sense to me. I submit to the torture (okay, so I'm a little dramatic) of house-cleaning when I have to, and it is always nice to see the finished product. In the same way, when the Lord needs to root out some sin in my life or do a little heart-cleaning, it is never a pleasant process. But I have to admit that it is much more free-ing than even having a clean house, and I am oh-so-very grateful that he loves me enough to do it.
Yesterday was Ginny's fourth time here, and when I walked into my clean house in the afternoon it just felt so good. There was no clutter (because I ran around in a frenzy in the morning trying to declutter so she could actually find the surfaces), no dirt, and no stress that is usually brought on by the sight of all the mess and not having time or energy to clean it! It was so free-ing and I felt so grateful.
The first time Ginny came was actually somewhat embarrassing. The place was so dirty that it took her about 5 hours to get it all scrubbed down, and that was after another lady had already spent a day cleaning several weeks before. Both of them assured me that it was definitely not the worst they had seen, but I have my doubts! :)
After those initial visits, things have definitely gotten better. Now that the layers of grime have been removed, Ginny gets the job done in about three hours. We're also getting better about not letting things pile up so that even the pre-cleaning de-cluttering goes faster as well.
As I woke up to my nice clean room this morning, the Lord showed me a parallel to the sin in my life. Ouch! Not something I want to think about when I'm trying to start a new day in my nice clean house. As I stepped into my clean shower, God let me know that no amount of scrubbing my body could do anything about any grimy build-up in my heart. I can hire someone to beautify my house. I can hire someone to give me a pedicure or put highlights in my hair to beautify my physical appearance, but only the Lord can beautify my heart. Only he can strip away the layers of grime or guilt or sin or shame.
Hebrews 12:11 says "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."
I truly detest cleaning. For me, it is absolute drudgery. I guess that's why this parallel made so much sense to me. I submit to the torture (okay, so I'm a little dramatic) of house-cleaning when I have to, and it is always nice to see the finished product. In the same way, when the Lord needs to root out some sin in my life or do a little heart-cleaning, it is never a pleasant process. But I have to admit that it is much more free-ing than even having a clean house, and I am oh-so-very grateful that he loves me enough to do it.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Champions!
Just a quick post today to update on the softball tournament. Finally, after several rain delays, Kaelie and Hannah's teams played in the finals yesterday. Both teams emerged as DISTRICT CHAMPIONS! I'm posting in navy blue in honor of their team colors.
Not only did they win, but they absolutely crushed the competition. Both games were ended as a result of the "slaughter rule," which means that if one team is ahead by 10 runs after the fourth inning, the game is ended and they get the automatic win. It was so exciting for the girls and so gratifying for them to see all their hard work pay off.
There won't be any resting and basking in the glory, however. They now advance to the State tournament, which will be played next weekend about an hour away. Wouldn't you know it, both teams play their first games at 6:00 Friday night. I guess Joey will have to go to one and I'll go to the other, and we'll switch halfway or something.
I just got a new camera for my birthday last week and I took lots of great pictures at the tournament. I wish I could figure out how to show more than one photo on my blog, but I'm still a rookie!
Not only did they win, but they absolutely crushed the competition. Both games were ended as a result of the "slaughter rule," which means that if one team is ahead by 10 runs after the fourth inning, the game is ended and they get the automatic win. It was so exciting for the girls and so gratifying for them to see all their hard work pay off.
There won't be any resting and basking in the glory, however. They now advance to the State tournament, which will be played next weekend about an hour away. Wouldn't you know it, both teams play their first games at 6:00 Friday night. I guess Joey will have to go to one and I'll go to the other, and we'll switch halfway or something.
I just got a new camera for my birthday last week and I took lots of great pictures at the tournament. I wish I could figure out how to show more than one photo on my blog, but I'm still a rookie!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Seasons and Celebrations
Finally...back online after almost six days without internet service! There have been so many times I have wanted to get to my blog and I haven't been able to. I guess I could've picked up a pen and paper, but I've gotten so used to typing out my thoughts that somehow it just didn't seem the same. Writing everything out by hand is so much slower. I find I keep up with my thought process a lot better (meaning things don't fly out of my head before I can get them down) when my fingers are flying over the keyboard.
I've missed blogging through a several important events. First, an update on Hannah's trip to camp. She had a blast and came home all smiles and feeling quite full of herself. Even though we sent note cards with pre-addressed and stamped envelopes for her to write home, she didn't even bother. Turns out she pulled herself together and began having a great time from the moment she could no longer see me waving goodbye from the church parking lot. Go figure...
The day after she returned we got to celebrate her homecoming with fireworks. Actually, it was Independence Day, and since Joey didn't have to work, we really enjoyed just hanging out and having some down time. Joey got to take a nap on the couch, Kaelie got to spend the day at the pool with her friend, and Hannah and I went to the new American Girl movie, Kit Kittredge. It was really good, by the way, and one the whole family can enjoy. That evening we all went out to Texas Roadhouse together (we figured you couldn't get much more American than that) and then to the firewords display.
The next day, July 5th, Kaelie turned 13. Yes, I am now officially the mother of a teenager. We spent the morning standing outside in a downpour for the first day of the all-star softball tournament. Both girls made the teams for their age divisions, but neither got to play because all the games were postponed until the next day. Suddenly, Kaelie's birthday was freed up and she had no plans. I let her call two of her bestest buddies and took them to Kaelie's favorite Mexican restaurant, which just happens to be at the mall. We dropped them off and let them have dinner together, they called when they were ready for us to come and pay, then they went off and left us again to shop. I was really impressed with Kaelie for letting Hannah come along to shop with her and her friends. Hannah was feeling a little sad about her big sis becoming a teenager and I think it made her day when Kaelie said she could come with them. Joey and I made ourselves scarce and did a little shopping of our own, and when we realized that it was kind of like a date, we decided that maybe this business of having a teenager might not be so bad after all! Afterwards, we all went back to our house for cake and ice cream, and all in all the impromptu birthday celebration turned out to be a big success.
Since then, we have been busy with softball every day. Hannah's team lost their first game but they won the next two. They were supposed to play in the semi-finals tonight but alas, another rainout. Kaelie's first game was rained out twice, they finally got to play last night and lost. Their second game scheduled for tonight was also rained out, so who knows how long this tourney could drag on!
Sooo....the operative word for the Altizer family in July thus far is BUSY. The verse I have to keep coming back to is Ecclesiastes 3:1. "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." Right now for us it is softball and swim team season, then comes volleyball and soccer seasons, then basketball season, then track season. :)
Seriously, I have to keep reminding myself that this season of my life needs to be about my children. Yes, I have to take care of myself and my needs and that is important too, but childhood is so very short and so very special. I had my turn to be a child and do lots of wonderful activities that my parents sacrificed for as well. Now Kaelie and Hannah get their turn to be children and I want them to be able to seize the opportunities that they're given. No, softball is not my favorite sport, in fact I find it rather boring, and I have whined and complained about the schedule. But they really wanted to play and Joey is coaching their teams and it has given them some great time and interaction with their dad.
So, I dutifully sit behind the fence, I cheer when they and their teams hit the ball and make plays and I try to shout words of encouragement when they don't. And I'm realizing that it's more than softball season that will soon come to end. Their childhoods will also, and as my friend Denise wistfully reminded me today, before I know it they will be 20 (her oldest son's age) and I will be missing this sweet and precious season. Such a lovely thought to ponder as I approach my own birthday tomorrow!
I've missed blogging through a several important events. First, an update on Hannah's trip to camp. She had a blast and came home all smiles and feeling quite full of herself. Even though we sent note cards with pre-addressed and stamped envelopes for her to write home, she didn't even bother. Turns out she pulled herself together and began having a great time from the moment she could no longer see me waving goodbye from the church parking lot. Go figure...
The day after she returned we got to celebrate her homecoming with fireworks. Actually, it was Independence Day, and since Joey didn't have to work, we really enjoyed just hanging out and having some down time. Joey got to take a nap on the couch, Kaelie got to spend the day at the pool with her friend, and Hannah and I went to the new American Girl movie, Kit Kittredge. It was really good, by the way, and one the whole family can enjoy. That evening we all went out to Texas Roadhouse together (we figured you couldn't get much more American than that) and then to the firewords display.
The next day, July 5th, Kaelie turned 13. Yes, I am now officially the mother of a teenager. We spent the morning standing outside in a downpour for the first day of the all-star softball tournament. Both girls made the teams for their age divisions, but neither got to play because all the games were postponed until the next day. Suddenly, Kaelie's birthday was freed up and she had no plans. I let her call two of her bestest buddies and took them to Kaelie's favorite Mexican restaurant, which just happens to be at the mall. We dropped them off and let them have dinner together, they called when they were ready for us to come and pay, then they went off and left us again to shop. I was really impressed with Kaelie for letting Hannah come along to shop with her and her friends. Hannah was feeling a little sad about her big sis becoming a teenager and I think it made her day when Kaelie said she could come with them. Joey and I made ourselves scarce and did a little shopping of our own, and when we realized that it was kind of like a date, we decided that maybe this business of having a teenager might not be so bad after all! Afterwards, we all went back to our house for cake and ice cream, and all in all the impromptu birthday celebration turned out to be a big success.
Since then, we have been busy with softball every day. Hannah's team lost their first game but they won the next two. They were supposed to play in the semi-finals tonight but alas, another rainout. Kaelie's first game was rained out twice, they finally got to play last night and lost. Their second game scheduled for tonight was also rained out, so who knows how long this tourney could drag on!
Sooo....the operative word for the Altizer family in July thus far is BUSY. The verse I have to keep coming back to is Ecclesiastes 3:1. "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." Right now for us it is softball and swim team season, then comes volleyball and soccer seasons, then basketball season, then track season. :)
Seriously, I have to keep reminding myself that this season of my life needs to be about my children. Yes, I have to take care of myself and my needs and that is important too, but childhood is so very short and so very special. I had my turn to be a child and do lots of wonderful activities that my parents sacrificed for as well. Now Kaelie and Hannah get their turn to be children and I want them to be able to seize the opportunities that they're given. No, softball is not my favorite sport, in fact I find it rather boring, and I have whined and complained about the schedule. But they really wanted to play and Joey is coaching their teams and it has given them some great time and interaction with their dad.
So, I dutifully sit behind the fence, I cheer when they and their teams hit the ball and make plays and I try to shout words of encouragement when they don't. And I'm realizing that it's more than softball season that will soon come to end. Their childhoods will also, and as my friend Denise wistfully reminded me today, before I know it they will be 20 (her oldest son's age) and I will be missing this sweet and precious season. Such a lovely thought to ponder as I approach my own birthday tomorrow!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Big Girls do Cry
It doesn't seem possible. We've graduated to all double-digits in our house. My baby turned 10 yesterday. How often have I heard the wisdom offered up from those older and wiser than I to "enjoy them while you can because they'll be grown and gone in the blink of an eye." It's so cliched but I'm finding it to be so very true, especially this year with Hannah kissing the single digits goodbye and Kaelie becoming a teenager this Saturday!
There are still some little-girl remnants remaining though. Today Hannah left for a four-day trip to church camp. Even though she went to this same camp last summer and loved it, she was a wreck about leaving home. She went to bed at 8:30 last night but was up and down until midnight, nervous and crying and complaining of a stomach ache because of the stress.
This morning she was doing much better until we were on the way to catch the bus at the church and she called her daddy on the cell phone to tell him goodbye. I listened as her voice started to quiver and catch, and in the rearview mirror I saw the tears sliding down her cheeks. She had pulled herself together by the time she got out of the car, but then the group was half an hour late leaving so it turned into a long, drawn-out goodbye. I don't know if that was better or worse for her.
Just before they took off, she reached out for one last hug and I wasn't sure if she was going to let go. I patted her on the chest and asked "Who goes with you wherever you go, Hannah?" She pointed at me. I looked into her eyes and said "My love certainly goes with you, but more importantly than me, who goes with you?" She looked upward then and I knew she understood.
"That's right. Don't you forget that even though Mommy and Daddy can't be there, Jesus goes with you no matter where you go. He is always there." At that, she nodded her head and I saw the slightest bit of a smile and I knew she would be okay. She still made me promise to stand in the parking lot and wave until the bus was completely out of sight, which I was glad to do!
So, if you think of it, please say a little prayer for Hannah this week, my baby in the double-digits!
"This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
There are still some little-girl remnants remaining though. Today Hannah left for a four-day trip to church camp. Even though she went to this same camp last summer and loved it, she was a wreck about leaving home. She went to bed at 8:30 last night but was up and down until midnight, nervous and crying and complaining of a stomach ache because of the stress.
This morning she was doing much better until we were on the way to catch the bus at the church and she called her daddy on the cell phone to tell him goodbye. I listened as her voice started to quiver and catch, and in the rearview mirror I saw the tears sliding down her cheeks. She had pulled herself together by the time she got out of the car, but then the group was half an hour late leaving so it turned into a long, drawn-out goodbye. I don't know if that was better or worse for her.
Just before they took off, she reached out for one last hug and I wasn't sure if she was going to let go. I patted her on the chest and asked "Who goes with you wherever you go, Hannah?" She pointed at me. I looked into her eyes and said "My love certainly goes with you, but more importantly than me, who goes with you?" She looked upward then and I knew she understood.
"That's right. Don't you forget that even though Mommy and Daddy can't be there, Jesus goes with you no matter where you go. He is always there." At that, she nodded her head and I saw the slightest bit of a smile and I knew she would be okay. She still made me promise to stand in the parking lot and wave until the bus was completely out of sight, which I was glad to do!
So, if you think of it, please say a little prayer for Hannah this week, my baby in the double-digits!
"This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
From the Beach to the Mountain
I'm back! It feels good to be sitting down to my blog again, it has been almost two weeks! They have been two jam-packed weeks, though, and I honestly have not had time to sit down and write. What happened to long, carefree, summer days? I know there was such a thing not so long ago in my life. I'm thankful that we did get to enjoy some of them a couple of weeks ago at the beach in Hilton Head. It was a great vacation and it was hard to come home and jump right back into the busy schedule! At least we got to follow it up with a long overdue visit from my sister, brother-in-law and nephew. Getting to spend some time with them made coming home much less painful!
Ever since a sermon I heard Sunday before last, I've been thinking a lot about Elijah, the great prophet of the Bible whose ministry is chronicled in 1st and 2nd Kings. I finally decided it was time to sit down and write out my thoughts, because otherwise they become jumbled up with other things and I forget what the Lord is teaching me.
I've always wondered why Elijah's faith seemed to falter so quickly when God had done so many powerful things through him and in his presence. God used Elijah to prophesy to Ahab, one of the most evil kings in the history of Israel. Time and again Elijah went boldly before Ahab to deliver the Lord's messages, which always included such bad news and judgement that Ahab called Elijah the "troubler of Israel." (1 Kings 18:17) Elijah predicted a three-year drought, during which God used a brook to provide Elijah water to drink and ravens to bring him meat.
(1 Kings 17: 6) When the brook dried up, God sent him to a woman who was using her last bit of flour and oil to provide a final meal for her and her son before they would die. Instead, she showed enough faith in Elijah's God to share her provisions with Elijah. In return, God kept them supplied with food throughout the drought. (1 Kings 17:13-16)
When the woman's son became ill and died, Elijah cried out to God to restore the child's life. God obliged, and the woman's faith increased. (1 Kings 17:22-24)
Later, God sent Elijah to present himself again to King Ahab, whose evil Baal-worshipping wife Jezebel was busily killing off all the Lord's prophets. What a picture of bravery and total trust in God's protection to go seeking out this powerful king who wanted him dead! That meeting led to a showdown on Mount Carmel, in which Elijah called down fire from God and proved to Ahab and the Israelites and the Baal prophets that the Lord is God. (1 Kings 18:36-39)
At that, the drought ended as Elijah predicted, and as King Ahab rode off to town in his chariot, God gave Elijah supernatural speed to run ahead of Ahab all the way. (1 Kings 18:48) Here's where I begin to get confused. After Ahab gets home and reports the events of Mount Carmel to the evil Jezebel, she gets all hot-headed and sends word to Elijah that she intends to have him murdered.
It is certainly not the first time Jezebel and Ahab have had a price on his head, so why is Elijah's response so different this time? 1 Kings 19:3 says "Elijah was afraid and ran for his life." He actually goes out into the desert, and saying that he has had enough, prays for God to take his life.
Instead, God twice provides hot bread and a jar of water, which Elijah consumes at the command of an angel. On the strength of that food, Elijah then travels 40 days and 40 nights, fasting throughout, to Horeb. You would think at this point that Elijah would be expecting some kind of amazing experience with God. Look where he has ended up, the very mountain on which God gave Moses the 10 Commandments! Has he gone there seeking a "mountaintop experience" of his own?
It would appear that Elijah is still depressed, lonely and fearful, because he hides out in a cave. When the word of the Lord comes to him and asks "what are you doing here, Elijah?," his response is "I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too." (1 Kings 19:10)
This is where I have to ask, "Come on Elijah, what more do you need? God has used you in powerful ways, working through you to bring a dead child back to life and answering your call to rain fire from heaven to prove his divinity to the Israelites! How can your faith waver now?"
My personal opinion is that Elijah has been very wrapped up in his ministry. He is right when he says he has been very zealous for the Lord. He has done the Lord's work over and over without hesitation. Perhaps his problem is more than loneliness and depression. Could it be he has become so used to and comfortable with God working through him that he has not paid enough attention to his own need for God to work in him?
I can totally relate if that is the case. I love it when God gives me a task to carry out. It makes me feel energized and empowered, and it is honoring and humbling all at once to get an up-close view of God at work, to actually be partnering with God, and to see the impact in someone else's life. There is nothing else like it!
I know, however, how easy it is to fall into the trap of self-sufficiency. When the heat is turned up, I think it's human nature to either seek a quick fix or to just want to give up. It takes discipline and raw faith to turn first to God and wait patiently for him to work. I'm not saying that Elijah didn't have those things, he obviously did. I just think it's easier when God is putting our discipline and faith into action on behalf of others than it is for ourselves in our own lives.
It would appear from reading both chapters 18 and 19, that this is the first time as a prophet that Elijah is without a specific mission to carry out. He has won an amazing victory on Mount Carmel. Suddenly his work appears to be finished, he is without instruction from God on what to do next, and his life is being threatened by Jezebel. Is he afraid this time that without a specific task before him that he is of no more use to God and therefore no longer under God's protection? After all, he ran off to the desert and asked God to take his life. Surely that would be better than dying at the hand of Jezebel!
The good news is that even though Elijah's faith wavered, God did not abandon him. In the cave on Mount Horeb when God spoke to Elijah, it wasn't in anger through the powerful wind, earthquake or fire that ravaged the mountain. Instead, it was through a gentle whisper, which I think is just what Elijah needed to quiet his soul. In retreating to a place of solitude, the prophet was able to receive the peace and reassurance that he needed in his own life, which God delivered in a gentle and loving way.
So often, I want the big, emotional, life-changing event, God showing himself in mighty and powerful ways. But I need to remember that sometimes a "mountaintop experience" is just that, a quiet time with God while sitting on a mountain (or in some other solitary place.) And truly, that should be all I really need.
Ever since a sermon I heard Sunday before last, I've been thinking a lot about Elijah, the great prophet of the Bible whose ministry is chronicled in 1st and 2nd Kings. I finally decided it was time to sit down and write out my thoughts, because otherwise they become jumbled up with other things and I forget what the Lord is teaching me.
I've always wondered why Elijah's faith seemed to falter so quickly when God had done so many powerful things through him and in his presence. God used Elijah to prophesy to Ahab, one of the most evil kings in the history of Israel. Time and again Elijah went boldly before Ahab to deliver the Lord's messages, which always included such bad news and judgement that Ahab called Elijah the "troubler of Israel." (1 Kings 18:17) Elijah predicted a three-year drought, during which God used a brook to provide Elijah water to drink and ravens to bring him meat.
(1 Kings 17: 6) When the brook dried up, God sent him to a woman who was using her last bit of flour and oil to provide a final meal for her and her son before they would die. Instead, she showed enough faith in Elijah's God to share her provisions with Elijah. In return, God kept them supplied with food throughout the drought. (1 Kings 17:13-16)
When the woman's son became ill and died, Elijah cried out to God to restore the child's life. God obliged, and the woman's faith increased. (1 Kings 17:22-24)
Later, God sent Elijah to present himself again to King Ahab, whose evil Baal-worshipping wife Jezebel was busily killing off all the Lord's prophets. What a picture of bravery and total trust in God's protection to go seeking out this powerful king who wanted him dead! That meeting led to a showdown on Mount Carmel, in which Elijah called down fire from God and proved to Ahab and the Israelites and the Baal prophets that the Lord is God. (1 Kings 18:36-39)
At that, the drought ended as Elijah predicted, and as King Ahab rode off to town in his chariot, God gave Elijah supernatural speed to run ahead of Ahab all the way. (1 Kings 18:48) Here's where I begin to get confused. After Ahab gets home and reports the events of Mount Carmel to the evil Jezebel, she gets all hot-headed and sends word to Elijah that she intends to have him murdered.
It is certainly not the first time Jezebel and Ahab have had a price on his head, so why is Elijah's response so different this time? 1 Kings 19:3 says "Elijah was afraid and ran for his life." He actually goes out into the desert, and saying that he has had enough, prays for God to take his life.
Instead, God twice provides hot bread and a jar of water, which Elijah consumes at the command of an angel. On the strength of that food, Elijah then travels 40 days and 40 nights, fasting throughout, to Horeb. You would think at this point that Elijah would be expecting some kind of amazing experience with God. Look where he has ended up, the very mountain on which God gave Moses the 10 Commandments! Has he gone there seeking a "mountaintop experience" of his own?
It would appear that Elijah is still depressed, lonely and fearful, because he hides out in a cave. When the word of the Lord comes to him and asks "what are you doing here, Elijah?," his response is "I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too." (1 Kings 19:10)
This is where I have to ask, "Come on Elijah, what more do you need? God has used you in powerful ways, working through you to bring a dead child back to life and answering your call to rain fire from heaven to prove his divinity to the Israelites! How can your faith waver now?"
My personal opinion is that Elijah has been very wrapped up in his ministry. He is right when he says he has been very zealous for the Lord. He has done the Lord's work over and over without hesitation. Perhaps his problem is more than loneliness and depression. Could it be he has become so used to and comfortable with God working through him that he has not paid enough attention to his own need for God to work in him?
I can totally relate if that is the case. I love it when God gives me a task to carry out. It makes me feel energized and empowered, and it is honoring and humbling all at once to get an up-close view of God at work, to actually be partnering with God, and to see the impact in someone else's life. There is nothing else like it!
I know, however, how easy it is to fall into the trap of self-sufficiency. When the heat is turned up, I think it's human nature to either seek a quick fix or to just want to give up. It takes discipline and raw faith to turn first to God and wait patiently for him to work. I'm not saying that Elijah didn't have those things, he obviously did. I just think it's easier when God is putting our discipline and faith into action on behalf of others than it is for ourselves in our own lives.
It would appear from reading both chapters 18 and 19, that this is the first time as a prophet that Elijah is without a specific mission to carry out. He has won an amazing victory on Mount Carmel. Suddenly his work appears to be finished, he is without instruction from God on what to do next, and his life is being threatened by Jezebel. Is he afraid this time that without a specific task before him that he is of no more use to God and therefore no longer under God's protection? After all, he ran off to the desert and asked God to take his life. Surely that would be better than dying at the hand of Jezebel!
The good news is that even though Elijah's faith wavered, God did not abandon him. In the cave on Mount Horeb when God spoke to Elijah, it wasn't in anger through the powerful wind, earthquake or fire that ravaged the mountain. Instead, it was through a gentle whisper, which I think is just what Elijah needed to quiet his soul. In retreating to a place of solitude, the prophet was able to receive the peace and reassurance that he needed in his own life, which God delivered in a gentle and loving way.
So often, I want the big, emotional, life-changing event, God showing himself in mighty and powerful ways. But I need to remember that sometimes a "mountaintop experience" is just that, a quiet time with God while sitting on a mountain (or in some other solitary place.) And truly, that should be all I really need.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Fun in the Sun and Surf
Greetings from Hilton Head, South Carolina! I don't believe I have ever been to the beach in the summer (and I have been to many different beaches) and not seen a single raindrop or heard a single rumble of thunder. It's day 4 and we have harldy even seen a cloud in the sky! Suffice to say it is absolutely beautiful and we are having a great family vacation!
So far we have played in the ocean, Joey and the kids have ridden some crazy-looking beach bikes, we have shopped, played in the pool, eaten two yummy seafood dinners, watched amazing sunsets (including one while swimming in the ocean), gotten a little sunburned (although not too bad, we've tried to be careful), watched a movie, had a picnic dinner on the beach, watched a fireworks show, and I have even managed to read a good book.
We've also gotten to see lots of really cool sea life. Today at the stretch of beach in front of our villas the lifeguards had to call everyone out of the water because there was a large school of fish swimming by, and they were being chased by sharks. One lifeguard told me that sharks were actually jumping through the water. We were happy to know that they had all passed by toward the other end of the beach! We spent the rest of the day playing in the water with no further scares.
The other evening, as we swam and watched the sun sink behind our villa, we caught several live sanddollars by shuffling our feet across the sand in the water. Of course the girls insisted we come up with names for each one before returning them to the ocean floor, so I trust that now they are all on a first-name basis with one another beneath the sea!
This morning, on a walk down the beach there were tide pools containing live crabs, starfish and more sanddollars, as well as a couple of large jellyfish and a very strange-looking sea worm. Kaelie and Hannah have really enjoyed seeing all these sea creatures so up-close and personal. Tomorrow morning we are going on a dolphin excursion, a small six-person boat that will take us out into the sound to get up-close and personal with the dolphins. We are all really looking forward to that! Once I get home and back to my docking station for my camera, I'll add some photos to my post.
How can anyone come to a place like this and not believe that there is a God, a Creator who designed all of creation? I just cannot even fathom what people must think about how all this came to be! I'm going to end this post now, because who has time to sit around on the computer when there is so much to enjoy just outside the door?!
So far we have played in the ocean, Joey and the kids have ridden some crazy-looking beach bikes, we have shopped, played in the pool, eaten two yummy seafood dinners, watched amazing sunsets (including one while swimming in the ocean), gotten a little sunburned (although not too bad, we've tried to be careful), watched a movie, had a picnic dinner on the beach, watched a fireworks show, and I have even managed to read a good book.
We've also gotten to see lots of really cool sea life. Today at the stretch of beach in front of our villas the lifeguards had to call everyone out of the water because there was a large school of fish swimming by, and they were being chased by sharks. One lifeguard told me that sharks were actually jumping through the water. We were happy to know that they had all passed by toward the other end of the beach! We spent the rest of the day playing in the water with no further scares.
The other evening, as we swam and watched the sun sink behind our villa, we caught several live sanddollars by shuffling our feet across the sand in the water. Of course the girls insisted we come up with names for each one before returning them to the ocean floor, so I trust that now they are all on a first-name basis with one another beneath the sea!
This morning, on a walk down the beach there were tide pools containing live crabs, starfish and more sanddollars, as well as a couple of large jellyfish and a very strange-looking sea worm. Kaelie and Hannah have really enjoyed seeing all these sea creatures so up-close and personal. Tomorrow morning we are going on a dolphin excursion, a small six-person boat that will take us out into the sound to get up-close and personal with the dolphins. We are all really looking forward to that! Once I get home and back to my docking station for my camera, I'll add some photos to my post.
How can anyone come to a place like this and not believe that there is a God, a Creator who designed all of creation? I just cannot even fathom what people must think about how all this came to be! I'm going to end this post now, because who has time to sit around on the computer when there is so much to enjoy just outside the door?!
"How many are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you made them all, the earth is full of your creatures. There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number--living things both large and small." Psalm 104:24-25
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Off to the Beach!
Wow, I can't believe how long it has been since I last posted! I've often said that May has become much like December in terms of busyness. As the end of the school year wind down, many of the activities do as well. That means May is chocked full of tons of "special end-of-the-year" events and celebrations.
The last day of school was May 30 and it has been so nice having the girls home, going to the pool, etc. We're still busy though, what with softball practices and games and getting ready to go to the beach. I can't wait...hopefully we'll be out of here in about an hour to hit the road! For that reason, this will be a short post!
I just really felt a need to sit down for a moment and express my thankfulness to God that we get to take this trip. He has brought us through so much in the last few months. Actually, just a few months ago we had no idea that I would even be able to make a beach trip this summer. But last month we decided to go for it, found an oceanfront condo to rent, and now we're about to take off. God is so good!
I think I'm especially glad for Joey that we get to go. He's had to shoulder a lot and he deserves a good break. In the middle of everything going on with me here at home, he has also made a job change. A position fell into his lap and the offer was too good to pass up. But he didn't feel right about leaving his former job while he was in the middle of a couple of major projects, as in preparing next year's budget and ordering furniture for a new building. So he has straddled the fence for several weeks, actually putting time in at both places and burning the midnight oil. Thankfully, that appears to be coming to an end as well.
As we get ready to leave for the beach, I'm praying that this marks a new chapter in the lives of the Altizers. Better job, better health, more family time, less stress, etc. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
The last day of school was May 30 and it has been so nice having the girls home, going to the pool, etc. We're still busy though, what with softball practices and games and getting ready to go to the beach. I can't wait...hopefully we'll be out of here in about an hour to hit the road! For that reason, this will be a short post!
I just really felt a need to sit down for a moment and express my thankfulness to God that we get to take this trip. He has brought us through so much in the last few months. Actually, just a few months ago we had no idea that I would even be able to make a beach trip this summer. But last month we decided to go for it, found an oceanfront condo to rent, and now we're about to take off. God is so good!
I think I'm especially glad for Joey that we get to go. He's had to shoulder a lot and he deserves a good break. In the middle of everything going on with me here at home, he has also made a job change. A position fell into his lap and the offer was too good to pass up. But he didn't feel right about leaving his former job while he was in the middle of a couple of major projects, as in preparing next year's budget and ordering furniture for a new building. So he has straddled the fence for several weeks, actually putting time in at both places and burning the midnight oil. Thankfully, that appears to be coming to an end as well.
As we get ready to leave for the beach, I'm praying that this marks a new chapter in the lives of the Altizers. Better job, better health, more family time, less stress, etc. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Tragedy Strikes Steven Curtis Chapman
I just read a truly heartbreaking news story...Steven Curtis Chapman's 5 year-old daughter was struck by a car in the driveway of the family home yesterday and died. The driver of the car was her teenage brother who did not see her.
My heart just broke for this family when I saw the headline. I can't imagine the anguish of the parents, and especially this boy who will bear the weight of this his entire life. I pray that somehow, someday he will be able to lay this burden down at the foot of the cross and let Jesus heal him from the guilt and the pain that he is bound to suffer.
If you aren't familiar with Steven Curtis Chapman, he is a 5-time Grammy award-winner and he has also won more than 50 Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association. He is a top-selling artist in the Christian music industry.
The article I read said that the 5 year-old, Maria, was one of three children that Chapman and his wife adopted from China. They also have three biological children. The Chapmans have done mission work in Chinese orphanages, and established a foundation and ministry called Shaohannah's Hope to financially assist couples in adoption.
I want to post the lyrics to Chapman's most recent hit, "Cinderella." Could it be that the Lord has been preparing him for this tragedy?
"She spins and she sways
To whatever song plays
Without a care in the world
And I'm sitting here wearing
The weight of the world on my shoulders
It's been a long day
And there's still work to do
She's pulling at me Saying "Dad, I need you
There's a ball at the castle
And I've been invited
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I danced with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I danced with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone...
She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed
She wants to know if I approve of her dress
She says, "Dad, the prom is just one week away
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I danced with CinderellaWhile she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I danced with CinderellaI don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone
She will be gone
Well, she came home today with a ring on her hand
Just glowing and telling us all they had planned
She says, "Dad, the wedding's still six months away
But I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I danced with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I danced with Cinderella
I don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone"
Please pray for Steven Curtis Chapman and his family, especially their teenage son. Pray that God will enfold them in his loving embrace, that they will feel the prayers of the thousands of people around the world whose lives they have touched who are sure to be lifting them up, that they will find comfort and peace in the wake of this horrible accident, and that their faith will be stengthened rather than shaken.
"...For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones."
Isaiah 49:13
My heart just broke for this family when I saw the headline. I can't imagine the anguish of the parents, and especially this boy who will bear the weight of this his entire life. I pray that somehow, someday he will be able to lay this burden down at the foot of the cross and let Jesus heal him from the guilt and the pain that he is bound to suffer.
If you aren't familiar with Steven Curtis Chapman, he is a 5-time Grammy award-winner and he has also won more than 50 Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association. He is a top-selling artist in the Christian music industry.
The article I read said that the 5 year-old, Maria, was one of three children that Chapman and his wife adopted from China. They also have three biological children. The Chapmans have done mission work in Chinese orphanages, and established a foundation and ministry called Shaohannah's Hope to financially assist couples in adoption.
I want to post the lyrics to Chapman's most recent hit, "Cinderella." Could it be that the Lord has been preparing him for this tragedy?
"She spins and she sways
To whatever song plays
Without a care in the world
And I'm sitting here wearing
The weight of the world on my shoulders
It's been a long day
And there's still work to do
She's pulling at me Saying "Dad, I need you
There's a ball at the castle
And I've been invited
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I danced with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I danced with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone...
She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed
She wants to know if I approve of her dress
She says, "Dad, the prom is just one week away
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I danced with CinderellaWhile she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I danced with CinderellaI don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone
She will be gone
Well, she came home today with a ring on her hand
Just glowing and telling us all they had planned
She says, "Dad, the wedding's still six months away
But I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I danced with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I danced with Cinderella
I don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone"
Please pray for Steven Curtis Chapman and his family, especially their teenage son. Pray that God will enfold them in his loving embrace, that they will feel the prayers of the thousands of people around the world whose lives they have touched who are sure to be lifting them up, that they will find comfort and peace in the wake of this horrible accident, and that their faith will be stengthened rather than shaken.
"...For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones."
Isaiah 49:13
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Kaelie's Confirmation
What a wonderful weekend we had. I know it's Wednesday and I'm just now getting around to writing about it, but things have been a little hectic.
The weekend was so wonderful because I got to see my daughter confirmed in church on Sunday. What a privilege it was to be able to witness her and 16 other seventh graders stand before the congregation to publicly profess their faith in Jesus Christ. It was made extra-special by the fact that Joey's mom and her husband were able to come, and my parents had recovered enough from Dad's back surgery in March and Mom's hospital stay a couple of weeks ago for diverticulitis to be able to make the 5 1/2 hour trip from Virginia Beach. It was a really great family weekend!
I must say that regrettably, I don't recall my own confirmation. I vaguely remember sitting in some boring classes, and I'm sure they must have done something special during a church service, but it obviously wasn't something that stuck with me.
This group has attended 13 weeks worth of classes, and they also went on a special trip to Washington D.C., where they visited the National Cathedral and the National Holocaust Museum. They worshipped at Rising Hope Church, where they heard some powerful testimonies from homeless people and recovering addicts and also performed service projects in the church's food pantry and clothing bank.
In addition, their confirmation journey also included time with mentors, church members who gave of themselves every Sunday evening to help shepherd these kids in their faith. Kaelie's mentor, Kristie, was wonderful. I'm so grateful to her for the ways that she has reached out in love to Kaelie.
As part of the confirmation church service, each mentor selected a verse for their confirmand. For Kaelie, Kristie selected Matthew 5:5 from The Message translation. "You're blessed when you're content with just who you are--no more--no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought."
The more familiar NIV translation says "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." I think of that as being humble, recognizing that God is sovereign and I am not, that I can do nothing on my own, but only by his grace and power.
I like the Message translation for reminding us also to not think of ourselves as any less than we are. I think it is especially wise counsel for a seventh-grade girl. Girls that age are always comparing themselves to other people and worrying about popularity and how they measure up. I have prayed so many times for my girls to always be able to see themselves through God's lenses and not to judge themselves by the world's standards..."being content with just who they are--no more, no less."
I also pray that they will always know my love for them for just who they are, beautiful children of God with their own unique personalities, gifts and abilities. I'm so blessed and grateful that I get to be their mom, and for the times like confirmation when God lets me see the great things he is doing in their lives!
The weekend was so wonderful because I got to see my daughter confirmed in church on Sunday. What a privilege it was to be able to witness her and 16 other seventh graders stand before the congregation to publicly profess their faith in Jesus Christ. It was made extra-special by the fact that Joey's mom and her husband were able to come, and my parents had recovered enough from Dad's back surgery in March and Mom's hospital stay a couple of weeks ago for diverticulitis to be able to make the 5 1/2 hour trip from Virginia Beach. It was a really great family weekend!
I must say that regrettably, I don't recall my own confirmation. I vaguely remember sitting in some boring classes, and I'm sure they must have done something special during a church service, but it obviously wasn't something that stuck with me.
This group has attended 13 weeks worth of classes, and they also went on a special trip to Washington D.C., where they visited the National Cathedral and the National Holocaust Museum. They worshipped at Rising Hope Church, where they heard some powerful testimonies from homeless people and recovering addicts and also performed service projects in the church's food pantry and clothing bank.
In addition, their confirmation journey also included time with mentors, church members who gave of themselves every Sunday evening to help shepherd these kids in their faith. Kaelie's mentor, Kristie, was wonderful. I'm so grateful to her for the ways that she has reached out in love to Kaelie.
As part of the confirmation church service, each mentor selected a verse for their confirmand. For Kaelie, Kristie selected Matthew 5:5 from The Message translation. "You're blessed when you're content with just who you are--no more--no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought."
The more familiar NIV translation says "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." I think of that as being humble, recognizing that God is sovereign and I am not, that I can do nothing on my own, but only by his grace and power.
I like the Message translation for reminding us also to not think of ourselves as any less than we are. I think it is especially wise counsel for a seventh-grade girl. Girls that age are always comparing themselves to other people and worrying about popularity and how they measure up. I have prayed so many times for my girls to always be able to see themselves through God's lenses and not to judge themselves by the world's standards..."being content with just who they are--no more, no less."
I also pray that they will always know my love for them for just who they are, beautiful children of God with their own unique personalities, gifts and abilities. I'm so blessed and grateful that I get to be their mom, and for the times like confirmation when God lets me see the great things he is doing in their lives!
Friday, May 16, 2008
And the Winner is...Miracle Grow!
It's been a long week at our house. Besides softball games and practices, choir rehearsals and concert, Kaelie has been spending some late nights working on her 7th grade science fair project. She finally turned it in today, and the science fair open house will be Monday evening.
For her project, Kaelie decided to test several different fertilizers on green bean plants. She planted four pots using vermiculite (a sythetic soil which contains no nutrients whatsoever) in each one. She left one pot unfertilized, added Miracle Grow to one, some other kind of fertilizer to another, and coffee grounds to the fourth.
As we watched the seeds sprout, we noted that each of the plants seemed to start out about the same, and continued with similar growth and health over the course of several weeks. More recently, however, the plants in the pure vermiculite and the coffee grounds began yellowing, and the beans they produced did not appear to be as large or healthy. The end result, Miracle Grow appeared to grow the healthiest-looking bean plants.
As Kaelie worked late into the night last night preparing her presentation, the Holy Spirit reminded me of Jesus' parable of the four soils in Mark 4:14-20.
"The farmer sows the word. Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like the seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop--thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown."
Kaelie's bean plants did not have a choice of fertilizers. They got whatever she chose, or chose not to mix in. They grew as best they could, but a couple began to wither. The one that received the fertilizer which supplied exactly the right nutrients was able to thrive.
What are you using for your fertilizer? It's so easy to rely on friends and family to see us through hard times, or turn to self-help books written by self-proclaimed gurus on whatever the subject matter happens to be.
In the parable of the four soils, Jesus offers the best fertilizer of all, his word! It supplies exactly what we need to not only sustain us, but to help us to grow and flourish as people of God. Unlike the bean plants which had no say-so in their fertilization, we have a choice to "hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop." And what a crop it could be...a harvest of people who look at our lives and our faith and say, "I'll have whatever she's having!"
What fertilizer can I offer to a withering soul? Divine miracle grow of course, the Word of God!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
A New Season
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
(1 Peter 2:9)
We have two beautiful maple trees in our backyard. The only problem is, they are among the last trees in the Spring to get their leaves, and among the first in the Fall to lose them.
For the last couple of weeks, I watched every day as the trees budded. It seemed to take forever for the buds to begin to open and the leaves to very slowly begin to unfold and grow. Then one day, I looked out the window and marveled at how the leaves seemed to have appeared overnight, and the trees suddenly appeared vibrant and alive.
Today I realized that I have been very much like those trees. My world seemed to stop for a little while upon learning in January that I have MS. As I struggled to come to grips with it both physically and emotionally, I felt like I was in some sort of dormant state, a holding pattern if you will.
This morning, when my friend Barbara asked me how I'm doing, I was able to respond that I'm doing really well. I told her that I'm feeling better physically, and that mentally and emotionally I'm no longer in a place where it's constantly occupying my thoughts. I feel really good.
"A couple of months ago," I said, "I wasn't there. It's taken some time to be able to let go of it and say that it is what it is and it's okay."
As I spoke those words to Barbara, I could see the leaves on the maple trees outside my kitchen window blowing in a gentle breeze, and that's when I realized the parallel with my life these last few months. It has taken time and effort, but just as winter has changed to spring and the earth has come back to life, God has brought me through a harsh season as well, and I want to enjoy this life I've been given!
It felt really good to be able to say "I feel really good," and to say it with complete sincerity. It almost caught me by surprise, kind of like the leaves that seemed to have opened overnight. I'm so thankful to God, the one who "called me out of the darkness into his wonderful light."
"The Lord will comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins; he will make her deserts like Eden, her wastelands like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the sound of singing." (Isaiah 51:3)
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Walking the Talk
"Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:18
Something happened at Sunday school the other day that touched me so deeply. A lady who has only recently joined the class with her husband came in and brought me a sticker. It was from the MS Walk a few weeks ago, and it had my name on it, stating that she was walking in my honor.
This is a lady who lives in my neighborhood, and though we have known each other for the last several years, it has really been only casually. I've enjoyed having her and her husband in Sunday school. It has given me the opportunity to get to know them better. She had told me a couple of weeks before the MS Walk that she was planning to participate on my behalf. I was practically moved to tears that she was even considering it, but then I never heard anything more about it.
Well, not only did she walk, but her 18 year-old son did as well. She said she wanted so much to do something for me when she heard of my MS diagnosis. She knew we were getting plenty of meals brought to us, and figured this would be a practical way of expressing her support.
You know, I felt her love when she first told me of her plans to walk and I so appreciated the gesture. But when she carried through with it, putting her love to action, then I also experienced God's love and grace. I think that's what the verse from 1 John is trying to tell us.
When our love for others stems from our love for Christ and a desire to serve him, people will see Christ reflected in us, and know his love for them. We're called to a love that goes much deeper than lip service, we have to walk the talk!
Something happened at Sunday school the other day that touched me so deeply. A lady who has only recently joined the class with her husband came in and brought me a sticker. It was from the MS Walk a few weeks ago, and it had my name on it, stating that she was walking in my honor.
This is a lady who lives in my neighborhood, and though we have known each other for the last several years, it has really been only casually. I've enjoyed having her and her husband in Sunday school. It has given me the opportunity to get to know them better. She had told me a couple of weeks before the MS Walk that she was planning to participate on my behalf. I was practically moved to tears that she was even considering it, but then I never heard anything more about it.
Well, not only did she walk, but her 18 year-old son did as well. She said she wanted so much to do something for me when she heard of my MS diagnosis. She knew we were getting plenty of meals brought to us, and figured this would be a practical way of expressing her support.
You know, I felt her love when she first told me of her plans to walk and I so appreciated the gesture. But when she carried through with it, putting her love to action, then I also experienced God's love and grace. I think that's what the verse from 1 John is trying to tell us.
When our love for others stems from our love for Christ and a desire to serve him, people will see Christ reflected in us, and know his love for them. We're called to a love that goes much deeper than lip service, we have to walk the talk!
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Update on the "Bridge Man"
I received word today that the man who was living under the bridge near my house has been relocated to a more permanent living situation. I don't know what or where, but I'm glad to know he's not under the bridge anymore! Praise God for the concerned citizens and the two non-profit emergency assistance agencies that were able to work something out for him!
The Truth About False Prophets
Yesterday my daughter Kaelie and I were flipping through TV channels and came across a show called "Inside A Cult" on the National Geographic channel. The show was about a cult called Strong City that allowed a reporter access to its property and interviews with some of the people there. Its leader, Michael something-or-other, was predicting Judgement Day on October 31, 2007.
This guy called himself a "Messiah"and had his followers completely convinced that he knew what he was talking about, that they were the only safe ones and the rest of the miserable world was going to be wiped out. It was disturbing to see how these people clung to him, how the teenagers giggled at suggestions by the reporter that they had been brainwashed and could be in danger.
The Bible warns of false prophets, which this guy Michael clearly was. Besides the fact that Judgement Day did not occur last Halloween, we have the words of Jesus himself to help us identify false prophets.
"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marraige, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man...Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." (Matt. 24:36-39, 42)
In doing some internet searching, I found Strong City's website. Not only did this Michael guy wrongly predict "the end," he goes so far on the website to say "I am the Word of God." John 1:1 says "In the Beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God." So in effect, this guy is saying he is God.
I went further into the website to read some blog posts from other curious/concerned visitors such as myself. Many quoted Scriptures and asked questions intended to trip this guy up and expose him for what he is. He was able to quote Scripture back in ways to suit his purposes and make him sound frighteningly believable...almost. Reading the whole sickening thing really drove home the point to me how critical it is for Christians to study and know God's Word, to be prepared to share it correctly at every opportunity.
It was a blessing that I happened to come across this TV show just a couple of weeks after I had studied the Matthew passage above in Bible Study Fellowship. Kaelie, who did not know what a cult was, had some questions. I was able to not only explain to her about cults and their dangers, but to also share God's truth with her so that she will be able to identify as false prophets those who make such brash predictions. I'm so thankful to God for giving us his Word!
Do not let yourself be deceived, stick to the Word and live each day for the Lord!
This guy called himself a "Messiah"and had his followers completely convinced that he knew what he was talking about, that they were the only safe ones and the rest of the miserable world was going to be wiped out. It was disturbing to see how these people clung to him, how the teenagers giggled at suggestions by the reporter that they had been brainwashed and could be in danger.
The Bible warns of false prophets, which this guy Michael clearly was. Besides the fact that Judgement Day did not occur last Halloween, we have the words of Jesus himself to help us identify false prophets.
"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marraige, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man...Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." (Matt. 24:36-39, 42)
In doing some internet searching, I found Strong City's website. Not only did this Michael guy wrongly predict "the end," he goes so far on the website to say "I am the Word of God." John 1:1 says "In the Beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God." So in effect, this guy is saying he is God.
I went further into the website to read some blog posts from other curious/concerned visitors such as myself. Many quoted Scriptures and asked questions intended to trip this guy up and expose him for what he is. He was able to quote Scripture back in ways to suit his purposes and make him sound frighteningly believable...almost. Reading the whole sickening thing really drove home the point to me how critical it is for Christians to study and know God's Word, to be prepared to share it correctly at every opportunity.
It was a blessing that I happened to come across this TV show just a couple of weeks after I had studied the Matthew passage above in Bible Study Fellowship. Kaelie, who did not know what a cult was, had some questions. I was able to not only explain to her about cults and their dangers, but to also share God's truth with her so that she will be able to identify as false prophets those who make such brash predictions. I'm so thankful to God for giving us his Word!
Do not let yourself be deceived, stick to the Word and live each day for the Lord!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)