Helpless

I can do nothing apart from the empowering of Jesus Christ and His Spirit in my life. I realize that more and more everyday! I want to become less so He can become more. I read this today and it was so encouraging. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

"Do you desire to speak for Jesus -- how can you unless the Holy Spirit touches your lips?

Do you desire to pray? Sadly, what dull work it is unless the Spirit makes intercession for you!

Do you desire to subdue sin? Would you be holy? Would you imitate your Master? Do you desire to rise to superlative heights of spirituality? Are you looking to be made like the angels of
God, full of zeal and love for the Master's cause? You cannot without the Spirit--'Apart from me you can do nothing.'

O branch of the vine, you can have no fruit without the sap! O child of God, you have no life within you apart from the life that God gives you through His Spirit!"

-Spurgeon/Begg (Morning and Evening/Truth for Today)

10 Things I Want to Do Before I Die

1. I want to go on safari in Africa.

2. I want to do the tango in the rain.

3. I want to read all the books on my list.

4. I want to lead as many people as possible to Christ.

5. I want to get a massage.

6. I want to see what my hair looks like red.

7. I want to skydive.

8. I want to run a marathon.

9. I want my dad to walk me down the aisle.

10. I want to scream at the top of my lungs in the largest library in the world.

Cosas Necesarias

I need to pray, constantly.

I need to start eating breakfast more often.

I need to be in the Word every day.

I need to acknowledge God's presence every moment.

I need to wake up a few minutes earlier.

I need my friends to hold me accountable.

I need people to confront me with my sin.

I need to understand the difference between a "need" and a "want."

I need a nap. Or do I want a nap?

Memories

It's amazing the silly things we remember that will never leave us. I'm having one of those memories at this very moment. I was in a Halloween play in 6th grade. The premise was this--some friends were hiding in a graveyard to play a practical trick on a boy who "never gets scared." I was the vampire--the ultimate scare. Believe it or not, I even remember my line, "good evening creature of the night. Just stepping out for a bite?" (said in a Transylvanian accent of course). How funny. With that said:

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Where Is God?

Smoke from countless fires contaminates the air around me--thousands have lost their homes, some have lost their loved-ones. Where is God? God is on His throne.

My mom has cancer. My aunt has cancer. Where is God? God is on this throne.

My friend has a brain tumor. My friend's little brother is in jail. My friend's baby has leukemia. My friend's dad has cancer. Where is God? God is on His throne.

We live in a fallen world. Bad things happen. Sad things happen. And the sovereignty of God is only comforting if He is our highest prize. If my mind is set on the things above, then no matter how bad things seem here, my hope and joy is found not in this world, but in the next. When the glory of God is my highest aim, then even in the midst of terrible circumstances I will be able to say, "blessed be the name of the Lord!"

Lord hear my prayer and my cry,
I lift my voice to You on high.
Bring comfort and peace to those in pain.
And may I dare not ever complain.
Help me find rest in You alone
You are God, You are on Your throne.

Little Things

The other day when I got home from work, I went into my room and my mail was sitting in a neat pile at the bottom of my bed. Such a simple thing, but it meant so much to me. You see, I've been staying in the house myself for the past few months and my dad recently came home. So to me, that pile of mail on my bed says my dad is a considerate gentleman. It says he was thinking about me. It says he went out of his way to serve me. And it says he loves me. Sometimes it's the little things in life that mean the most.

Tu t' amuse

VERY FUNNY
"A Colorado judge knows just where to hit noise ordinance violators: right in the ears.When a violator of the Ft. Lupton, Colorado noise ordinance is found guilty in Judge Paul Sacco's coutrroom, the perp is sentenced to a full hour of Barry Manilow and friends. The violators, who are often convicted of turning up their hip-hop music too loud, serve their sentence in Sacco's courtroom as he blares a loop of Manilow, Dolly Parton ("I Will Always Love You"), and Karen Carpenter through a boombox for an hour. 'When you have a person playing rap at extreme volumes all over the city, and they have to sit down and listen for an hour to Barry Manilow, it's horrible punishment,' Sacco told CBS in Denver. The city sees very few repeat violators."

VERY SAD
In her acceptance speech for Best Reality Program (My Life on the D-List) Kathy Griffin shouted an obscenity to Jesus and exclaimed, "This award is my god now."

FUNNY (AND SAD)
Back in 1971 a man named Mike Flynt was suspended from his sr. year of college football at Sul Ross State University for fighting. Now he is 59 years old and he just reenrolled and is going to play his "sr. year" of football. His old coach said, "He's an idiot." "Gosh dang, Mike, you're not 20 years old anymore. You're liable to cripple yourself."

Change of Plans

I had big plans for the weekend. I was going camping in Yosemite. And I was ready to hike Half Dome. God had other plans. I woke up feeling terribly sick--nauseous to be exact. It wouldn't be wise to sleep in a tent for two days and push my body to the limit by a challenging hike.

And I had to remember--put people above things. God wanted me to spend time with dear friends and their unsaved brother. God wanted me to catch up with a ministry partner, and God wanted me to be encouraged by a friend. None of that would have happened if my plans had come to pass.

I never stop, but God says he wants me to be still. When I'm still, He reveals things to me and speaks to me through His Word, and gives me a deeper and clearer discernment of events in my life.

I make plans, but God directs my steps.

Indicators of Pride

By: Dave Norton (adapted from Stewart Scott)

-Complaining
-Lack of gratitude
-Expectations not being met
-Seeing myself as better than someone else
-Inflated view of my importance
-Lack of using my abilities
-Self-pity
-Perfectionism
-Talking too much
-Seeking independence or control
-Caring too much what other people think
-Devastation because of criticism
-Unteachability
-Sarcasm
-Lack of service
-Lack of compassion
-Defensiveness/blameshifting
-Lack of prayer
-Resistance to authority
-Minimizing sin
-Jealousy, envy
-Deceitfulness
-Lack of close relationships

On Prayer

“Pour out your heart, and don't hold anything back. He sees right through us, He sees to the depth of our heart, how can we hide anything? Beseech Him, clinging to the cross, waiting upon Him patiently. He hears us and He wants us to tell Him the things that afflict us and trouble us in this life.”
-Greg Dominguez

Little Bit of Life

I went to a Craig Morgan concert at the House of Blues last night. Not only did I go, but I got to meet him! I am always impressed when a performer sounds just as good live as they do on album. Craig puts on a really great show--he has so much energy and is constantly UP. He is so gracious to his fans too. Craig signed the bed of a truck for one of his fans in a wheel chair! The band performed a new song called, "Looking Back with You." This song hasn't been recorded yet, but should be soon. The song brought tears to my eyes. It was written for Craig's wife--it's about growing old together and looking back on all the memories. It was really sweet. What a fabulous night. Did I mention, Craig is a Christian--that makes it even better! It's encouraging to see someone on the road of fame still walking with the Lord!

Blessed Be the Name of the Lord

Blessed be your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where the streams of abundance flow
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

Blessed be your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's all as it should be
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, Blessed be your name

Good Stuff (Drink it Up)

I read this article today by Darrin Patrick. My friend passed it along to me. I thought it was so good, I had to post it for you, my dear readers (few but loyal).

Discerning your Near Idols
By Darrin Patrick

That most basic question which God poses to each human heart: has something or someone besides Jesus Christ taken title to your heart's functional trust, preoccupation, loyalty, service, fear and delight? In order to get to the bottom of what the Bible calls idols, and what Dick Keyes calls your "heart title", ask yourself these diagnostic questions:

What other than Jesus has become your main source of significance, happiness, meaning and purpose?

What other than being a child of God are you using as your primary identity?

What have you substituted for God in your life?

What have you used to make yourself feel accepted or worthy before God, yourself and others?

Another way to discern our idols is to begin to take note about what we get emotional about as our idols are revealed because they arouse powerful emotions when our idol is threatened or taken away. If your begin to pay attention to your emotional life you can begin to discern your idols.

Questions that expose Near Idols (Keyes, Keller, Kaufman)

What do I worry about most?

What, if I failed or lost it, would cause me to question whether or not I wanted to live?

What do I rely on or comfort self with when things go bad or get difficult?What do I do cope?

What are my release valves? What do I do to feel better?

What do I think most easily about? What does my mind go to when I am free? What preoccupies me? What do I daydream about?

What makes me feel the most self-worth? What am I the proudest of? What do I want to be known for?

What do I lead with in conversations?What do I want to make sure that people know about me fairly early on in the conversation or relationship?

What prayer, unanswered, would make me seriously think about turning away from God?

What do I really want and expect out of life? What would really make me happy?What is my hope for the future?

I am Thankful

The more time passes, the more I see God's grace in my life. Last night I was surprised by about 20 of my friends for a birthday dinner. I have honestly, never felt more lavished with love in all my life. I intensely felt God's favor and His hand of blessing upon me in such a vivid and real way. It was an experience I will never forget. What more could a girl ask for than to be surrounded by brothers and sisters in the Lord who want nothing more than for me to love Christ with all my heart and soul? I deserve judgment and hell, but God has given be nothing but long suffering and reward. It's amazing. It's incomprehensible. It's overwhelming. And I am thankful!

Attention Christians: It's Okay to Have Fun!

Christians are allowed to laugh.

Christians are allowed to enjoy themselves.

Christians are even allowed to be goofy and silly.

In fact, God tells us to enjoy life to the fullest in Him. I've been accused of "acting young" (being immature), but I think people have a false view of what "maturity" is. Maturity does not mean putting on airs and acting serious all the time. True maturity is the discernment to act appropriately in any given situation. Scripture calls that propriety.

It would be unwise for me to spend more time analyzing this--then I'd begin to worry too much about what other people think of me. My highest goal, my highest pursuit is to please Christ. I can't worry about fitting into any mold anyone else may have for me.

Some people take themselves too seriously--they need to learn how to enjoy this life that God has given them. It might do them some good to spend time with someone like me. :o)

Tale As Old As Time

Beauty lies within.

Charm is deceitful,
Beauty is vain.
But a woman who fears the Lord,
She shall be praised.

A Haiku

Inspiration

God is my shepherd--

Even the octopus knows.

Inspired by Jen.

A Reason to Smile

YOU, O LORD, HAVE MADE ME GLAD BY YOUR WORK.
Psalm 92:4

Do you believe that your sins are forgiven and that Christ has made a full atonement for them? Then what a joyful Christian you ought to be! How you should live above the common trials and troubles of the world! Since sin is forgiven, can it matter what happens to you now? Luther said, "Smite, Lord, smite, for my sin is forgiven; if You have forgiven me, smite as hard as You will." And in a similar spirit you may say, "Send sickness, poverty, losses, crosses, persecution, what You will. You have forgiven me, and my soul is glad." Christian, if you are thus saved, while you are glad, be grateful and loving. Cling to that cross that took your sin away; serve Him who served you. "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."1 Do not let your zeal evaporate in some little exuberant song. Show your love in meaningful ways. Love the brethren of Him who loved you. If there is a Mephibosheth anywhere who is disabled, help him for Jonathan's sake. If there is a poor tried believer, weep with him, and bear his cross for the sake of Him who wept for you and carried your sins. Since you are forgiven freely for Christ's sake, go and tell others the joyful news of pardoning mercy. Do not be contented with this unspeakable blessing for yourself alone, but publish widely the story of the cross. Holy gladness and holy boldness will make you a good preacher, and all the world will be a pulpit for you to preach in. Cheerful holiness is the most forcible of sermons, but the Lord must give it to you. Seek it this morning before you go into the world. When it is the Lord's work in which we rejoice, we need not be afraid of being too glad.

Spurgeon, "Morning and Evening"

What Would I Look Like As a Simpson?

To see Chela as a Simpson visit: http://marcella-marcella.blogspot.com

There's No Place Like Home

Well, camp is over. It's good to be back. I did have a wonderful time. Thank you everyone who was praying for our time. The Lord really did use it for His glory. Several students professed faith in Christ. Among them is Molly Dumas, Dan Dumas' niece. I had a chance to talk to her and share my testimony with her and answer some of her questions. I believe she really counted the cost and thought through the implications of being a Christian before she made a profession. Praise God!

The girls in my small group were very open and honest. I was blown away by their transparency and eagerness to grow. I believe Rick's messages from Ecclesiastes sobered them and got them thinking more seriously about life. I myself was challenged by the reminder of God's sovereignty, knowing that everything comes from His hand, the hand of a loving Father.

We had lots of twisted ankles, but nothing too serious. A girl named Annie and a staff member named Kelly collided in one of the games and hit heads--both of them ended up with stitches but that's all. The bus trips there and back went VERY smoothly. No "Bus Nazi's" like last year. It was truly a blessing.

Being the dork that I am, I didn't take any pictures, I got so busy and preoccupied. But if/when I get pictures from some of my girls, I will post them.

New Mexico

Well, my friends, it's that time of year again. The sun is hot, the sky is a beautiful smog-filled blue, and the mountains are a deep mahogany brown. That means it's summer and summer means one thing--high school summer camp! We leave on Sunday night for a 20-hour bus ride to Glorieta, New Mexico. I can't wait because camp is always such a wonderful time to spend with some of my girls and to get to know them better. I'd appreciate if you could pray for me while I'm away for the week. Here are some specifics you can pray for:

1. Safety- We are going far away which increases the chance of accidents on the road.

2. Health- It's easy to get sick because of the lack of sleep with the amount of physical energy we exert. It's no fun to be sick at camp.

3. Me and my girls- Pray for the Lord to give me wisdom as I lead small groups with my girls. Pray that I will have the right words to say and that the girls would grow in their walks with the Lord as a result.

4. Growth- Rick Holland is our camp speaker and he is one of my favorite pastors, so I know this will be a good time for me to reflect on my own walk and to grow in my own love for the Lord. Pray that the Lord would reveal my sin to me and that I would be teachable and repent.

Here are a couple of pictures from our last camp in January, winter camp:

A Great and Inestimable Mercy (Letters of J.C. Philpot)

It is great and inestimable mercy when our various trials and troubles are made a means of driving us to the Lord, as our only hope and help.

Those circumstances, outward or inward, temporal or spiritual, which…stir up an earnest spirit of prayer, make us cease from the creature, beat us out of all false refuges, wean us from the world, show us the vileness and deceitfulness of our hearts, lead us up to Jesus, and make Him near, dear, and precious--must be considered blessings.

It is true, troubles rarely come to us as such, or at the time appear as such--no, they usually appear as if they would utterly swallow us up! But we must judge of them by their fruits and effects.

Job could not see the hand of God in his troubles and afflictions. But it was made plain after he was brought to abhor himself and repent in dust and ashes.

I am very sure, if we are in the right way, we shall find it a rough way, and have many trials and troubles.

“God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in His holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:10-11.

Times Are A Changin'

I remember when I could exercise as much as I wanted, and not get sore.

I remember when I could go to the bank without being called ma'am.

I remember when summer was actually summer.

I remember when I could eat anything without feeling guilty.

I remember when 25 seemed old.

I remember when driving was fun.

Time goes by so fast, it's almost unbelievable. Years vanish like a shadow in the dark right before my eyes and I look back and have no idea where those years went. Now I understand why Scripture commands us to redeem the time. Now I know why God tells us to enjoy our youth. Every day that passes is a day that I can never get back. So, I want to use the time the Lord has given me for His glory. I want to be as useful as I can for the short time that I am here on this earth. I want to be useful and purposeful with every moment so that when my deeds are tested through fire, when I stand before the Lord, what comes out is gold and silver and precious stones...not wood hay and stubble.

It's Hard Being a Girl

I realize the whole concept of submission in marriage doesn't start with marriage. It's a quality I need to cultivate now. But it's not as easy as it sounds. God has given me certain character qualities and I would never use them to excuse my sin, but it does make it a little more difficult. I am opinionated, stubborn, loud, out-spoken, bold--none of those qualities lend themselves to submission. It just means I have to work harder than some other girls. But in the end, God is humbling me and teaching me what it means to prefer others and what it will someday mean for me to willingly put myself under the authority of a husband who will lead as I follow. There is no greater act of trust than for a woman to say--I will choose to submit to you and the decisions you make.

Love and Marriage

My "cousin," Rachel Ham is now Rachel Talbott. She married Byron a week and a half ago. It's surreal. I remember holding her when she was a baby! And now I am throwing her bridal showers and standing up for her in her wedding. Time goes by so fast, and God's plan for every person is so different. I never would have imagined that my 20-year-old neighbor, friend, and "cousin" would get married so soon. She looked beautiful. The wedding was quick and to the point, and everyone had a great time at the reception. It looked like a wedding out of a magazine, honest. The photographer, and my friend, Lukas posted a few of his favorite pictures on his blog.

http://lukasvandyke.blogspot.com/2007/06/byron-and-rachel.html

Check it out!

Oh, Canada

My friend BK recently graduated from The Master's Seminary. Did I mention, BK is from Canada? Since his visa expired, BK is no longer allowed to work in America. But he's not allowed to leave either. So all he can do now is sit and wait for his visa to go through. That means one thing--he's stuck in America for the summer. So what does one do when trapped in a foreign country? Read BK's blog to find out!

http://bksummer2007.wordpress.com/

THOUGHTS

As I evaluated my recent posts, I noticed that I've been pretty serious lately. So I had great aspirations to post something really clever and funny and witty--something to make you all laugh, something that would get lots of comments. Notice, it's been 8 days and I still haven't come up with anything that fits that description. So, rather than make you laugh, out come some thoughts I've had today as a result of my reading in the MacArthur Daily Bible.

Life isn't easy. And while I shouldn't stress, unpleasant situations in life happen and my sinful response is to worry. In the book of Acts, Peter and John were in prison for sharing the gospel and by a turn of miraculous events, they escaped. Knowing me, I would worry and fret. But the church at that time rejoiced in God's power, they recognized that even the people involved in Christ's death were gathered to do "whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done." And the church used Peter and John's situation as a chance to rejoice in God's sovereignty.

That's a lesson for me. God is sovereign. God's plan can not be thwarted by any man. I can take confidence and rejoice in that fact, for He is "God who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and all that is in them." I have nothing to fear, but Him who ought to be feared.

ALONE

Mark 6:46
"And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray."

Even Jesus had to get alone and go away to pray to His Heavenly Father. If this was a necessity for the Son of God, the Creator of the Universe, the Most High God, how much more is it essential for me? I crave that kind of intimacy with my Lord. I feel that need, to go away and be alone with God. To talk to Him and sit quietly and listen, and to let him speak back to me through His Word. No, God won't speak to me in a audible voice and tell me what to do, but when I acknowledge Him in all my ways and seek His will, not my own, I believe He will make clear the muddy areas in my life. He will gaurd my heart and mind with a peace that only He can give--a peace that surpasses all understanding.

Thought For The Day

"Is the Lord Jesus Christ your most precious treasure in this world? If so, you can count yourself among normal Christians. Is the moral beauty which is found only in Jesus Christ constantly drawing you to praise and worship? If so, you are indeed among those whom God's Word identifies as normal, believing, practicing Christians. But I can almost anticipate an objection. If someone is that delighted and that occupied with the person of Jesus Christ, is he or she not an extremist rather than a normal Christian? Have professing Christians really come to that time in their humanistic and secularistic leanings that they can sincerely deny that loving Jesus Christ with all their heart and soul and strength is normal Christianity? We must not be reading and studying the same Bible! How can anyone profess to be a follower and a disciple of Jesus Christ and not be overwhelmed by His attributes? These divine attributes attest that He is indeed Lord of all, completely worthy of our worship and praise."

-Whatever Happened to Worship? by A.W. Tozer

Impartial Love

You know when God triggers something in your mind--something you read, or heard in a sermon--and you can't stop thinking about it. Well, that sums up some of my thoughts this past week.

Last weekend at my Bible study retreat in Mammoth, Bruce Blakey spoke about the spiritual discipline of serving one another. He talked about the passage where Jesus washes the disciples' feet. And he touched on the fact that Jesus treated Judas so well, no one believed Judas was the betrayer, even when Jesus revealed it. Jesus loved Judas so much and exercised such compassion toward Judas--up until the very last moment, He gave Judas a chance to repent and to turn from his evil ways. Jesus even dipped bread and gave it to Judas, indicating that he was a special guest of honor.

What wondrous love is this?

I pray that I can be the same way to those who have mistreated me. I pray I can demonstrate the same kind of love towards those "hard to love people." And I pray my love will be so extreme that I can love even my enemies the way that Jesus loved Judas--the way that Jesus loves me!

A Weekend I Won't Forget

I spent 3 days in Mammoth with my Bible study.

I went hiking around Convict Lake.

I rode a mechanical bull.

I line-danced in the middle of town.

I ate some amazing apple pie.

I woke up at 5:00AM to go to Rainbow Falls.

I climbed over a fence to put my hand in the water at the hot springs.

I played "Mafia."

I learned an amazing new worship song.

I went running by myself and prayed.

I saw Manzanar.

I asked people hard questions.

I had true fellowship.

I bought a Coach wallet.

I heard 3 amazing messages from God's Word.

I relaxed in the jacuzzi.

I cried.

The End of an Era

Robert William "Bob" Barker (born December 12, 1923) is a seventeen-time Emmy Award-winning American television game show host. He is best known for hosting CBS's The Price Is Right since September 4, 1972, making it the longest-running daytime game show in television history. On October 31, 2006 he announced that he would retire from hosting The Price Is Right in June 2007 after holding the job for nearly 35 years and having been in television for 50 years. His last episode of The Price Is Right is set to air on June 15, 2007.

We'll miss you, Bob!

7 Things

Here are seven true facts about my life:
(I was "tagged" which means I am required to participate in this crazy post).

7. At my kindergarten graduation I was asked, "what do you I want to be when you grow up?" I answered, "I want to be a cheerleader or a veterinarian." (Same thing, right?)

6. I ate an entire plastic bucket full of those hard candy hearts. I accomplished this feat in three months (that was three years ago).

5. I can't snap or whistle or fold my tongue.

4. When I was little I would sneak away from my house and walk down the street to the railroad tracks (not even 1/2 a mile from my house). Behind the tracks is a wealthy neighborhood and several of the people in those homes owned horses. I would take carrots and feed the horses through the fence.

3. In seventh grade I worked in the library. I was certain I wanted to be a librarian when I was older. I cried almost every day of seventh grade but my crying had nothing to do with working in the library.

2. I've practiced a few songs that I would sing if I auditioned for American Idol.

1. I've dropped my cell phone in the toilet before.

Comfort

This was so good, I just had to share it! It encouraged me so much today.

I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS.
Matthew 28:20

It is good that there is One who is always the same and who is always with us. It is good that there is one stable rock amidst the billows of the sea of life. Let us not set our soul's affections upon rusting, moth-eaten, decaying treasures but set our hearts upon Him who remains faithful forever. Let us not build our house upon the moving quicksands of a deceitful world but base our hopes upon this rock that, amid descending rain and roaring floods, shall stand immovably secure. My soul, I charge you, lay up your treasure in the only secure cabinet; store your jewels where you can never lose them. Put your all in Christ; set all your affections on His person, all your hope in His merit, all your trust in His efficacious blood, all your joy in His presence, and then you may laugh at loss and defy destruction. Remember that all the flowers in the world's garden fade by turns, and the day comes when nothing will be left but the black, cold earth and death will soon put out your candle. How sweet to have the sunlight when the candle is gone! The dark flood must soon roll between you and all you have; so join your heart to Him who will never leave you; trust Him who will go with you through the surging current of death's stream and who will bring you safely to the celestial shore and have you sit with Him in heavenly places forever. In the sorrows of affliction, tell your secrets to the Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Trust all your concerns to Him who can never be taken from you, who will never leave you, and who will never let you leave Him, even "Jesus Christ [who] is the same yesterday and today and forever."1 "I am with you always" is enough for my soul to live upon no matter who forsakes me.

Back to Reality

I am back from vacation. Here are a few pictures I thought you might enjoy.

The view from our place was gorgeous!

We went to a "butterfly farm" where they raise butterflies for people to see and enjoy different species.

Me and mom enjoying the butterflies.

My sister and I went parasailing...that's us, way up there!

The whole family...waiting in the airport to head back home.

VACATION

Well, my friends. Tonight I leave on a week's vacation. I will be going to St. Maarten with my dad and mom and my sister and her husband Caleb. I am excited to experience God's creation in such an incredible place. It should be relaxing and enjoyable. But most of all, I am excited for the time I will have to sleep in, read God's Word, dig into some good books, and focus on some Scripture memory. I will be back next Friday (4/4/07) and I'll tell you more about it and hopefully post some good pictures. Have a blessed week! Keep blogging.

Give Crustaceans a Chance

4/28/07 World Magazine:
Freedom didn't come cheaply for approximately 300 lobsters held for distribution in tanks at the New Meadows Lobster Pound in Maine. A group of young environmentalists arrived at New Meadows and demanded the company give the lobsters a chance at freedom. In this case, cash talked: After paying nearly $3,400 in cash, the environmentalists gathered up their 300 lobsters and told New Meadows owner Pete McAleney they planned to release them back into the ocean. "We told them they're going to get caught again and they said, 'That's OK. We just want them to have a chance before they get caught again,'" McAleney said. "I don't know if they go around and free chickens and cows or what."

You Don't Want to Miss This

Here's something you don't see everyday!
And there's more where that came from. It's well worth the 30 seconds--trust me!

http://scottandemilyoneal.blogspot.com/2007/03/facing-giants.html

Astounding

Sometimes fact is stranger than fiction. Check out this story about an American solider in Iraq that was shot, but didn't even know it--the bullet went through his IPod and then didn't penetrate his bullet-proof vest. He wasn't harmed at all. God's sovereignty on display once again! (I thought this was post-worthy!)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tiki/445621299/in/pool-appleusers/

TALENT

I am amazed, no, flabbergasted at the talent God gives some people. Not just..."o, he's pretty good," but "oh-my-word, blow-you-away, knock-your-socks-off-kind-of-talent." I'm talking about some of the most talented people in the world! And I have a couple of those people right at my church. Jubilant Sykes and Christopher Parkening. Jubilant is an acclaimed tenor singer and Christopher is a world-renown classical guitarist. I've heard them both perform so much, I often forget how rare their talent is. But I am reminded that I can't take such wonderful talent, such wonderful gifts, such wonderful men, for granted. I am obligated and happy to recognize their talent as a blessing from the Lord and to worship Him for His character, His majesty, and His creativity, which is displayed through these two men.

From the Sublime to the Serious

I know my last post was totally goofy--it was meant to make you laugh--but this post is going to be a serious one. So I just wanted to warn you about the sudden change of pace. Anyone who knows me knows that I am super goofy...but I am also super serious. Lately it's been time to be serious in my life. So many of my good friends and family have been enduring some HUGE trials...life-shaking-kind-of-trials...not I'm having-a-bad-day-kind-of-trials. And I have been lifting them up in prayer. It's a little overwhelming sometimes to share in such huge burdens, but I am blessed the Lord has allowed me to be part of the entire trial process in the lives of many of my friends.

Here are some of the major prayer requests that have been on my heart:

1. My friends Scott Frankfurt and Logan Carr-
Jody Frankfurt passed away and her husband Scott and her best friend Logan are still enduring the pain and grieving. They need prayer, even though months have passed.

2. My friend Rebecca-
Rebecca's father passed away. Rebecca is my age and was very close with her dad. I know this is a difficult and painful ordeal to endure.

3. My friends Carly and Chad-
Carly and Chad lost their baby girl "Olivia Grace." Carly was almost 7 months along in her pregnancy, when they heard the news. I will continue praying for their healing, peace of mind and wisdom as they make decisions for their future.

4. My friend Marni-
Marni just recently found out her mom has cancer.

5. My aunt Laurene-
I recently found out that my mom's sister has cancer in her liver. (Her children, my cousins, are only 12, and 15). My aunt is saved.

6. My friend Greg-
Just a few days ago, my friend Greg (30 yrs. old) was admitted into the hospital. He was having bad headaches and after a couple of MRIs, CAT scans, and a spinal tap found out that he has a 3 tumors in his brain. We are still waiting for a fuller diagnosis and a course of treatment from the doctors.

If you'd like to join me in praying for these dear brothers and sister, please do!

What's Wrong With America?

I'll tell you what's wrong:

The Prince of Bel Air

It's always a worthwhile experience when I get to visit other churches. It's a great reminder to me just how vast and diverse the body of Christ really is. Last night, two dear friends and I set out on an adventure that began with an email...

You see, I read Alistair Begg's devotional everyday and occasionally listen to his sermons...so when I got an email that Alistair would be in California, at Bel Air Pres nonetheless, I was there!

The worship was great...you could sense the genuine love these dear brothers and sisters have for the Lord. Although many of the traditions of the church are quite different than I am accustomed to (pastors in jeans, women serving communion, candles) there is still much I can learn from this body of believers. I was reminded that it's okay to express your love for the Lord in a physical way. Drums can be conducive to worship. It's okay not to wear a tie--God doesn't mind! God wants my heart and mind--that is even more important to God than keeping my often legalistic standards.

I thank God for Alistair's message--that God has fulfilled in whole the OT and we are no longer in bondage to the law. Christ has completed it and now sits at the right hand of God enabling me to be free! I thank God for allowing me to learn from these fellow believers and for increasing my appreciation for the wonderful church body God has allowed me to be part of!

Ten Things I Learned from Watching a Clippers Game

10. Not everyone likes potato chips.

9. Drive aggressively.

8. It's fun to smuggle food.

7. If you're nice, you just might get what you ask for.

6. Skittles are easy to lose.

5. If you're patient, good things happen.

4. EBay is a wonderful thing.

3. You shouldn't wear bare midriff shirts if you're chubby.

2. Some people make friends easily.

1. Tim Duncan is a nice guy.

Feelin' Groovy!

59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)

Simon and Garfunkel

Slow down, you move too fast.

You got to make the morning last.

Just kicking down the cobble stones.

Looking for fun and feelin' groovy.

Ba da, Ba da, Ba da, Ba da...feelin' groovy.

Hello lamp-post, whatcha knowin'?

I've come to watch your flowers growin'.

Ain'tcha got no rhymes for me?

Doot-in' doo-doo, feelin' groovy.

I've got no deeds to do, no promises to keep.

I'm dappled and drowsy and ready to sleep.

Let the morning time drop all its petals on me.

Life, I love you, all is groovy.

Routine

It's Wednesday! Yesterday was Tuesday and tomorrow is Thursday ( I know...call me a genius). Wednesday night...that means I will go to high school Bible study and do the same exact thing that I've done every Wednesday for almost the past five years. Don't get me wrong, there is no where else I'd rather be on a Wednesday night...I LOVE IT! But I've just been thinking about how easy it is to get caught up in the "routine" of life. Every day seems the same and every week seems to repeat the last--that's life, I know. And I don't expect different. I just want to make sure that no matter how routine the activities of my life get, that my spiritual life doesn't follow suit. I don't want to grow mundane. I don't want to grow cold or complacent. I want to be passionate. I want to be bold. I want to be vibrant in my walk with the Lord. When others look at my life, I want to ooze Christ, from every action, every thought, and every word I speak.

V-Day

You know, if we were better at expressing our appreciation for the people God has put into our lives (friends, family, etc.) then we wouldn't even need a holiday like Valentine's Day. I think that's what I will take away most from today. We need to thank the Lord every day for putting friends in our life that challenge us, confront us, encourage us...and we shouldn't need a special day to remind us to do that. And it's even more important to tell the people we care about how thankful we are for them--not just...I am thankful for you...but specifically what about them encourages you or what about them do you appreciate? Well, I am thankful for all of you, my friends, who care enough about my life that you take time out to read my blog. That makes me feel special!

God's Sovereignty....The Getty...The Hospital

Proverbs 16:9
"A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps."

What a weekend! I just have to say, God amazes me! On Friday night, the topic of the message at my Bible study was God's providence. Little did I know that God was going to make that attribute of His come to life in a way I've never experienced. I had plans for Saturday...my day was scheduled out...spend time with my mom in the morning, meet Ayemi for lunch in the afternoon, and go to a HS event in the evening. But God had other plans! While I was shopping with my mom, I got a phone call that a group of people were going to the hospital to spend time with Rebecca (my dear friend who's dad is dying). So Ayemi and I decided to meet up later and go to the hospital together. I would just go to the high school event a little late. Still, God had other plans! Ayemi and I found out Rebecca couldn't be at the hospital until 7pm. So, Ayemi and I spent the rest of the afternoon together. We went to the Getty Museum--and once again God's providence was crystal clear. There was an exhibit of "icons" from St. Catherine, a church right at the bottom of St. Sinai (amazing). But incredibly sad at the same time-- they worship icons of saints that have no power, no life when the living and true God commanded them right from that Mt. to have NO others God's, and to make NO graven images. Ayemi ran into her friend Patina...a girl that shared the gospel with her! Talk about God's providence. After that we went to the hospital and spent a wonderful time praying, crying, singing, and reading Scripture with Rebecca! I am so thankful for my salvation. I am so thankful that I serve the true and living God who has power to heal. He has power over sickness and disease, authority above all the saints. And only He can save souls.

Soda Cans

Tuesday is "trash" day. And this morning when I was jogging, I saw a sad sight. A woman was walking down the residential streets near my home digging through the trash cans--apparently collecting soda cans and other recyclables for a meager existence. Maybe she was homeless I am not sure...but I said hello to her. And as I continued my jog, my mind wandered to the story of Ruth. What does the book of Ruth have to do with soda cans, you may ask. Well, when Ruth went into Boaz's field to collect scraps, or to "glean barley in the fields after the reapers," that is the modern day equivalent of digging in the trash for soda cans! Ruth was poor and had nothing and if it had not been for Boaz's generosity, neither Ruth, nor Naomi would have had food to eat. And to think, God used that one poor, humble woman to bear a son, Obed. "He is the father of Jesse, the father of David."

A Letter From Prison

World Magazine: February 2007

Editor's note: Andrée Seu corresponds with Texas prisoner Robert Fahrbach. She asked him to write to her son Jae, a prisoner in Pennsylvania. Here is what he wrote, without any changes.

Hello Jae,
You might be wondering who I am. Well let's end the wondering ok, my name is Robert but people call me Bubba. I am 32 years old and been locked up since 1998 Aug 7. My Dad and Mom and son and grandparents all past away since I been locked up, the rest of my family don't want nothing to do with me cause of what I did in my past, and I'll share that with you, one day if you like.

So to start I do know what the dark alone feeling is like, I know what being screamed at buy the boss is like and hear in Texas they scream. Jae my past was so dark and heavy they locked me up 15 aggravated years, don't sound like much but with a brand new baby and 24 years old and loosing every thing its a life sentence. Hear they don't pay for any labor, you work for free, and if not your locked up even tighter.

BUT! Theirs a but in all this sad story. Jae its hard in prison wondering if their going to call your name at mail call, phone calls wich we get every 90 days if wher good during those 90 days, money for food and toothpas able to go to the store during Christmass, so you can have a somewhat good time “a spread.” But Jae I found something better then all of that I found someone who loves me their on every call, listens to my sad story’s of how bad it is in hear. This man brought me so much joy and peace, I have now a bigger family. He gave me a nother chance that we all need.

Jae let me tell you a little something ok if don’t mind ok Jae I am at sike prison crazy house whare you take medican for voices seeing things that others cant. Ware people cut on them selves and I was one of them. I been like that for years I came to prison and started medican “one thousand two hundred milligrams” a day I was trying to get away from the angrey filling I had towards people and even my self.

But now I am off all of it because some one loved me enough to give me his life so I can be free in my mind whare all the battle is, boy-o-boy and what a battle it was. So he said these words to me ”:Peace I leave you, my peace I give you, I do not give to you as the world gives, so do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid,:” You can hear him say it to you your self in John 14:27.

Jae I can cry to you in many tears to try to get you to understand. I never found true happiness no not in my different drugs, drinks, sex, nothing could stay long enough. I always kept trying intell I gave Christ my heart. Did it all happen in one day no no no, it took reading and reading and plenty of times on my knees. We always think we should have the last word, “no” every man will be judge acourding to what he has done with the Son of God in their life.

I would love Jae to explain to you a lot more, not to judge you but to show you great wonders of love and peace, so much joy,. Gods love is just not in word but in plenty of experiences. You already been told plenty of times your not good for nothing never been nothing. You have not messed up your life to the point ware God cant fix it. Your just ware he needs you to open you eyes. Trust me you wont ever come close to what ive done and been through, if you don’t believe me write ok. Me and you nowone else ok, I’ll be praying alright. Love in Christ. Bubba

P.S. Jae this Christ is not a religion. Religion stinks in God’s nose, he wants us as a child to come home.

Men and Women

A funny e-mail my friend sent to me:

WIFE VS. HUSBAND
A couple drove down a country road for several miles, not saying a word. An earlier discussion had led to an argument and neither of them wanted to concede their position. As they passed a barnyard of mules, goats, and pigs, the husband asked sarcastically, "Relatives of yours?" "Yep," the wife replied, "in-laws."

W O R D S
A husband read an article to his wife about how many words women use a day...30,000 to a man's 15,000. The wife replied, "The reason has to be because we have to repeat everything to men... The husband then turned to his wife and asked, "What?"

CREATION
A man said to his wife one day, "I don't know how you can be so stupid and so beautiful all at the same time. " The wife responded, "Allow me to explain. God made me beautiful so you would be attracted to me; God made me stupid so I would be attracted to you!

WHO DOES WHAT
A man and his wife were having an argument about who should brew the coffee each morning. The wife said, "You should do it, because you get up first, and then we don't have to wait as long to get our coffee." The husband said, " You are in charge of cooking around here and you should do it, because that is your job, and I can just wait for my coffee." Wife replies, "No, you should do it, and besides, it is in the Bible that the man should do the coffee." Husband replies, "I can't believe that, show me." So she fetched the Bible, and opened the New Testament and showed him at the top of several pages, that it indeed says.........."HEBREWS"

THE SILENT TREATMENT
A man and his wife were having some problems at home and were giving each other the silent treatment. Suddenly, the man realized that the next day, he would need his wife to wake him at 5:00 AM for an early morning business flight. Not wanting to be the first to break the silence (and LOSE), he wrote on a piece of paper, "Please wake me at 5:00 AM." He left it where he knew she would find it. The next morning, the man woke up, only to discover it was 9:00 AM and he had missed his flight. Furious, he was about to go and see why his wife hadn't wakened him, when he noticed a piece of paper by the bed. The paper said, "It is 5:00 AM. Wake up."

Weldon

Yesterday I went to Weldon. Where is Weldon? Good question. Head north...Weldon is in Kernville about 90 miles from Bakersfield. It's farmland, ranchers, cowboys, hickville. My friend Brian preached at the Weldon Baptist Church. Members...about 30. If you learn your theology from the hymns they sing, then you'd believe that "if you want a blessing, just call Jesus on the phone," and you'd believe "I've got sunshine in my soul." When you walk into Weldon Baptist Church, you are greeted by a picture of Jesus in a white robe with his beautiful wavy hair and blue eyes.

But you know what? The members of Weldon Baptist are real! They have real struggles. They want to know how to handle their rowdy sons, they want to do the right thing when asked to house a troubled teen. They want to please God. And even if they wear jeans to church and refuse to go outside without their cowboy hat on, I'll be singing beside them in heaven. We may not being singing, "I've got sunshine in my soul" we will be singing, "holy, holy, holy" but I am thankful for their hospitality, generosity, transparency, and genuine faith! The church has been through a lot but praise the Lord for the faithful deacons and members of the church that want a pastor who will open the Word and teach the Truth!

Old Friends

If you're blessed in the same way as me, then you know there are some friends you can go without talking to for months at a time, and then when you finally get a chance to catch up, it's like no time has passed at all--you pick right back up where you left off. I have a friend like that and I am so thankful for her. I hope you have a friend like that too! Praise the Lord. The body of Christ is a magnificent thing and I am in awe at the way it functions...it truly is supernatural.

Old Paths (WINTER CAMP 07)

Dr. Will Varner is an amazing man because the Lord has chosen to use him in mighty ways. He was our speaker at high school winter camp this past weekend. He taught through 2 Peter--reminding us of "old paths," the things we already know, but need to be reminded of. And he stirred our hearts and minds to be lovers of the Word and diligent students of it. But I must say, one of the most impactful parts of the weekend for me was when Dr. Varner shared his testimony and he talked about the death of his 26 year-old-daughter just a year and a half ago. Job says, the Lord gives and the Lord takes away, blessed be the name of the Lord. That was Dr. Varner's comfort in the time of his deepest pain. And that was (is) the same verse (and song) that comforts me when I think of the return of my mom's cancer and the imminent possibility that it can eventually spread through her body and take her life. The Lord is good and faithful and his purpose and plan can not be thwarted. I long to have the same heart as Dr. Varner (and Job) that is submissive to the will of God in my life no matter how painful. My heart will choose to say, Lord blessed be your name.

2 Peter 3:18 "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen."

10 Things I Learned Over the Holiday Break

10. Looking at lame Christmas lights can be fun if you are with the right people.
9. You can share the love of Christ by scraping dirty dishes.
8. Pumpkin pie crust burns easily.
7. I am more complicated than I thought.
6. God has a sense of humor.
5. My cousin has small feet.
4. It's hard to find jeans that fit.
3. Decision-making is not always easy.
2. My cat thinks she's a princess.
1. Laugh instead, when you feel like arguing.

Funny Things I Read

WORLD MAGAZINE, November 18, 2006:
Baby Framed
"Indian authorities discovered they had a wee problem when their robbery suspect turned out to be a 3-month-old baby. According to the charging papers, the police had issued a warrant for the baby on robbery, extortion, and banditry charges after an assailant stole fares from a bus driver. Police say the bus driver named the baby in his report to authorities because of a personal grudge he bore against the baby's father."

WORLD MAGAZINE, November 25, 2006:
Pretty in Pink
"Several inmates who staged a breakout attempt and set fire to the Dallas county (Mo.) Detention Center in October returned to their cells only to find Sheriff Mike Rackley had done some redecorating. 'Basically, if they are going to act like children and commit a childish act, then we'll make a childish atmosphere,' Rackley said after having the cells painted pink with blue teddy bears. 'And it's a calming thing--teddy bears are soothing. So we made it like a daycare and that's kind of like what it is, a daycare for adults who can't control their behavior in public...How do you feel though in a pink atmosphere?'"

Lessons I Learned at Starbucks

Just a week or so ago I met my friend at Starbucks and we decided to enjoy our carmel apple ciders outside. We were sitting at a table that came right up to the sidewalk. At one point a man that appeared to be homeless came right up to our table. I was disappointed by my fleshly reaction which was to grab a hold of my purse--my purse was just kind of sitting on the table. Then, I assumed the man was going to ask for money. But he didn't. He saw the Bible sitting on the table and said,"...o...John MacArthur study Bible? I like Jack Hayford and James Dobson myself." I about fell out of my seat and it was all I could do to keep from spitting that hot cider onto the man's already filthy, tattered shirt. Then the man continued, citing encouraging verses and explaining how he can be thankful for his salvation. Thank God for that man. I don't even know his name...but God used that man at Starbuck's to teach me a lesson. I am called to love people...not just people that are easy to love, not just people that are like me, not just other Christians, but EVERYONE. And when I give preference to my well-groomed, employed friend sitting next to me, than I do to the dirty man on the broken bike, I am not exemplifying Christ the way I should. The way I treat "the least of these" is the way I treat Christ.

Things That Make You Go Hummmmmm

Now, obviously I don't believe in karma...but I'm about to tell you a story that will make you go hummmmm...As you know, I was devastated by the loss of my favorite radio station 93.9 KZLA (the country station) and I mentioned that I had found 1260 AM...a great station that plays standards music. Well, since the demise of 93.9, 1260 has been my new best friend. For the past several months, each morning on the way to work and each afternoon on the way back home I am soothed by the classic voices of Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Natalie Cole, etc. etc. etc. 1260 even has old radio shows on in the evening. Once I even sat in my driveway for 30 minutes to finish listening to one. Well, you guessed it--1260 AM is no longer. Gone, as quickly as I found it. A sad day for me. BUT I must say...I am put in a tough position because 1260 AM has been taken over by COUNTRY music! Karma?

We Have Sinned...

I read this yesterday:
Daniel 9:16
"O, Lord, according to all Your righteousness, I pray, let Your anger and Your fury be turned away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain; because of our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem, and Your people are a reproach to all those around us. Now therefore, our God, hear the prayer of Your servant, and his supplications, and for the Lord's sake cause Your face to shine on Your sanctuary, which is desolate. O my God, incline Your ear and hear; open Your eyes and see our desolations, and the city which is called by Your name; for we do not present our supplications before You because of our righteous deeds, but because of Your great mercies. O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and act! Do not delay for Your own sake, my God, for Your city and Your people are called by Your name."

And I've been thinking:
What is the place for corporate confession? Here Daniel is quite obviously confessing sin...but not just his own personal sin...he is confessing the sins of the entire nation of Israel. Up until this point in my Christian experience, that kind of "universal confession" has been non-existent. Is there a place in my prayers for me to confess the sins of MY country--the immorality, the abortion, the sick obsession with possessions, the self-worship, the greed, the lust, the corruption, the drunkenness, the homosexuality, the pride, the rejection of authority...
It grieves me and I pray my country will repent for these sins that we've committed against God and God alone! Lord, have mercy on us!

It's Beginning To Sound A lot Like Christmas!

Okay...it's time for another "radio rant."

Maybe you don't agree with me, but I think it should be illegal to play Christmas music before Thanksgiving! I went into my car the other day and turned on the radio...and BAM! Santa was already coming to town.

Don't get me wrong. I love the holidays. I love Christmas especially. I am no Grinch. I listen to my fair share of Silent Night and Hark the Harold Angels Sing...but in due time!

I am sorry. But I just don't want to hear about "Santa Baby" on November 13th. Let all the candy from Halloween settle in my stomach and feed me some turkey before you think about filling me with eggnog and chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

DFC

Hear ye, hear ye. I call to order the first official meeting of the DFC (Doormats for Christ). Our mission statement is simple. As Christian women we need to be silent, timid, helpless, opinionless, incompetent, needy, brainless, and insecure. Honest--it's biblical. And not only is it biblical, but it’s the kind of girl that guys are attracted to. Christian men don’t want a woman who is intelligent and confident and sure of herself. They don’t want a woman who is strong and opinionated. They look for a girl who will never disagree, never raise an objection, and don’t even think about challenging him! Men want a doormat--so that’s what we need to be, ladies--doormats for Christ! Women, once you’re married, it’s okay to express an opinion every now and then, but only occasionally and if you do, make sure it’s not a strong opinion. But until that day, just hold your mouth and keep quiet.
(This blog entry is sponsored by, inspired by, and completely supported by Nathan Casebolt. Please direct all questions, complaints, and hate mail to him at waterlessplaces.blogspot.com.)

White & Nerdy

This is a hysterical video...I thought some of you might enjoy it! If not, then just pretend like I didn't post it.

"Weird Al" Yankovic's music video from his new album "Straight Outta Lynwood" (in stores Sept. 26)

Mabel Hands: A Living Lesson on Ecclesisates 12

Last night I went to visit a 95-year-old woman named Mabel Hands. Since Mabel can no longer physically come to church, it's nice when church members can come to her. Mabel had a stroke a few months ago. She can't talk well--she knows what she wants to say, but it wont come out. Mabel told us how she loved to cook and knit and travel with her family, "but I can't do that anymore," she kept saying. And all I could think about was how our eyes will grow dim, our hearing will grow weak, and our bodies will grow frail. But only one thing matters in the end: fear God and keep His commandments. The things I worry about today will have no concequence in 40, 50, 60 years. So why should I be so concerned about things that don't really matter in the end? Thank you Mabel Hands.

What A Week!

1 Timothy 5:17
“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the Word and doctrine.”

GMI missionaries are worthy of double honor! And it was a privilege and joy for me to watch their precious children for the week while they enjoyed teaching, seminars, fellowship, technical training, doctor’s appointments, hair cuts--whatever they needed to be refreshed and prepared to go back onto the missions field.

I was in the nursery (0-2 year-olds). My week consisted of playing, changing diapers, preparing and feeding the little ones food, rocking crying and sleeping babies, going on walks with strollers, giving piggy-back rides, reading stories, singing songs, and blowing bubbles. I baby-sat, teddy-sat, cat-napped, cuddled, wrestled, hugged, laughed, smiled, and even scolded.

I also got to spend a little time with the older kids. I sang on the worship team and joined in on a fieldtrip to the Maritime Museum and to Sea World. I had a blast dressing up like Cat in the Hat at picnic day and doing face paints and balloons for the kids.

The late nights, early mornings, and long days did take a toll on me--I got sick--but others picked up my slack, and I was ready to go again full force the next day. I was with an amazing team and I had a wonderful roommate. I am constantly amazed at God’s sustaining grace and I was blessed beyond words by the example of the missionaries who give up the comforts of home to serve a living and powerful God in different places all over the world. My love for the body of Christ and for these missionaries has grown exponentially as the Lord continues to reveal to me more and more of His heart for a lost and dying world.

Quotes from a Friend

"For every need in our emotional or mental or spiritual life, for every problem in our relationships, for every trial we go through, God offers something (such as His love, His power, His provision) that can bring us through triumphantly--if we know and believe and count on Him in the hour of need. God is our first Source, and ultimately the only Source, of all we need for a full and satisfied life. And we have such a great advantage in this relationship with God because it's internal. Every other love is limited by some degree of distance and by the barriers imposed by our physical bodies. But God dwells within us, so that our relationship with Him has unlimited potential for constant closeness and joy and fulfillment. Here indeed is love."
-Ruth Myers, The Satisfied Heart

"God is so vastly wonderful, so utterly and completely delightful, that He can without anything other than Himself meet and overflow the deepest demands of our total nature, mysterious and deep as that nature is."
-A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of Holiness

Ella&Chai

At this very moment I am sipping a chai tea (which just happens to be my favorite hot beverage) and I am listening to one of the greatest singers that ever lived--Ella Fitzgerald. And I had to stop. How often do I let little moments like this in life pass me by without taking the time to soak it all up and to give thanks for the small things I enjoy so much. The small things like Ella and chai.

Exploding Heads

I'm sick. It started with a sore throat and then my nose started running. The other day, the pressure in my head got so bad, it made me dizzy to stand up. Here's the strange thing...I am sure this is just a coincidence...but my sister who lives practically on the other side of the country (in Indiana) is experiencing the EXACT same symptoms as me. I don't know, maybe it's some sort of sibling connection we have....but I always thought that was only with twins.

What's the worst "sick" experience you've ever had?

Minty Fresh

Apparently I have good dental hygiene. (I went to the dentist today). It seems like when you're young...all growing up...the dentist tells you to FLOSS, FLOSS, FLOSS. Then why was my dentist so impressed when I told her that I floss everyday? Beats me...one of the many mysteries of life.

Do you floss?

Any good dentist stories?

My Verse for the Day

Lamentations 3:22-26
"Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I hope in Him!’ The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."

Philosophizing, Friends, and Fondue

It's finally happened.

No longer will I be given the kids menu at the Olive Garden. No longer will I be mistaken for a highschooler with the church group. No longer can I blame the alarm clock for the mornings I wake up late. No longer can I flip and run and wrestle and not feel sore the next day. No longer can I eat 3 desserts in one day without feeling guilty.

That's right. I'm old. Yesterday was my birthday. I turned 26. But I'll tell you one thing--it was honestly the best birthday I've ever had. I am not joking. More than ever before I see and appreciate God's lavish grace in my life.

I went to dinner with several friends and I felt so blessed to be surrounded by people who love the Lord and who care about me and my walk with Him. So many encouraging brothers and sisters in Christ that I am so thankful for and that I don't deserve to call my friends. God is so good!

Maybe birthdays aren't so bad. I can get used to one dessert a day. :o)

RIP

Yes, exactly one week ago today on Thursday August 17, 2006, I lost a dear friend. I never knew how much this friend meant to me until it was too late. I took for granted all the times we spent together driving to and from work and around town, laughing, crying...I had grown dependent on this friend. And now my friend is gone and there is a silent, but unmistakable void in my life.

Yes, right after rush hour last week at exactly this time my favorite radio station 93.9 KZLA played Keith Urban "Tonight I Want to Cry" and then suddenly, unexpectedly the hideous sounds of Black Eyed Peas resonated from the station that had once been my friend--but no longer.

Apparently (at least according to the LA Times) 40% of LA radio listeners are Hispanic, and my friend, my station, was not reaching its target demographic. So after 25 years of serving LA with the best music around, the thanks KZLA got was being replaced by Gwen Stefani and "dance-ready" music.

But the saddest part is that KZLA was the only country station in the LA area...so now there is no way for me to hear country music on my way to and from work. But the outlook is not all bleak...I can still hear KZLA streamed on my computer while I am at work. And I guess I'll just have to find a new friend to join me on my morning and afternoon commutes (AM 1260 isn't too bad).

Please join me in a moment of silence out of respect for my dear friend.
RIP.

Got to Love Spurgeon

"My Master has riches beyond the calculation of arithmetic, the measurement of reason, the dream of imagination, or the eloquence of words. They are unsearchable! You may look and study and ponder, but Jesus is a greater Savior than you think Him to be even when your thoughts are at their best. My Lord is more ready to pardon than you are to sin, more able to forgive than you are to transgress. My Master is more willing to supply your needs than you are to confess them. Do not tolerate small thoughts of the Lord Jesus. When you put the crown on His head, you will only crown Him with silver when He deserves gold. My Master has riches of happiness to bestow upon you now. He can make you to lie down in green pastures and lead you beside still waters. There is no music like His music that He, the Shepherd, plays for His sheep as they lie down at His feet. There is no love like His; neither earth nor heaven can match it. To know Christ and to be found in Him is real life and true joy. My Master does not treat His servants meanly; He gives to them the way a king gives to a king. He gives them two heavens-a heaven below in serving Him here, and a heaven above in delighting in Him forever. His unsearchable riches will be known best in eternity. On the way to heaven He will give you all you need. He will defend you and provide for you en route, but it will be at the end of your journey when you will hear the songs of triumph, the shouts of salvation, and you will have a face-to-face view of the glorious and beloved One. "The unsearchable riches of Christ"! This is the tune for the minstrels of earth and the song for the musicians of heaven. Lord, teach us more and more of Jesus, and we will declare the good news to others."

Applying Psalm 62

Truly my soul silently waits for God; from Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved."

ONLY in God is my soul at rest...He ONLY is my rock. Is this true of my life? I hope the anwer is yes. But if it is, why is my initial reaction to pick up the telephone when something goes wrong. I am thankful for the wonderful people the Lord has placed in my life...but I fear I rely on them too much! He ONLY is my rock. I have no other stronghold. Praise God for His wondrous gift of human relationships...but may it never be said of me that I put my hope or my confidence or my trust in anything other than my great God and King.

Sobering Reminder

"Here's a side to the Christmas story that isn't often told. Those soft little hands, fashioned by the Holy Spirit in Mary's womb, were made so that nails might be driven through them. Those baby feet, pink and unable to walk, would one day walk up a dusty hill to be nailed to a cross. That sweet infant's head with sparkling eyes and eager mouth was formed so that someday men might force a crown of thorns onto it. That tender body, warm and soft, wrapped in swaddling cloths, would one day be ripped open by a spear. Jesus was born to die."
-John MacArthur

A Note To My Best Friend

Dear Christian. Be filled with praise and give abundant thanks that you serve the God of infinite peace! Forget not the picture of your Savior slumbering serenely in the midst of a chaotic, turbulent storm, whose power is so great, He need but only speak a word, "peace." And instantly the rushing water and whooshing winds obeyed Him and all was still and silent, at perfect rest. Dear Christian, empowered by the Holy Spirit that dwells within you, fret not. Your God is more than able to calm any storm that rages within your fearful heart. If Jesus was able to cast out demons, heal the sick, and raise from the dead, if Jesus was able to pluck a wretched sinner like you from the mire and muck and to translate you into the kingdom of the Son of His love, how much more can He soothe your worried spirit and ease your troubled mind? He is able and willing to accomplish what concerns you. Rest, dear Christian, rest!

Ring'a D'em Bells!

It's almost impossible to believe. My best friend is getting married in 3 days! I am ecstatically happy and miserably sad at the same time. I didn't realize it was possible to feel such contradictory, conflicting emotions together. Sandi and I talked about something a couple of weeks ago and I still can't seem to get it off my mind. The purpose of marriage is to serve God better with someone than you can serve Him alone. Yet, there are so many married people who say their time with the Lord was never the same after they got married. But I don't think that has to be the case. As a matter of fact, I think marriage is a sanctifying time and should make you even more like Christ than when you're single. Marriage should not be seen as a distraction or a disruption in your spiritual life. Of course we should enjoy singleness and the benefits of serving the Lord without any encumbrances...but that doesn't give us license to look down our noses at marriage. After all, it is one of the greatest earthly gifts the Lord can give us. Yes, practically the form and the focus of your ministry must shift when you're married, but the motivation and drive remain the same--the glory of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In three days I will walk down the aisle and watch as my kindred spirit makes vows to the man God has chosen for her, and I will praise God for the gift of marriage and the gift of singleness that He so graciously bestows on His children as He sees fit.

Got To Love Chinese Food

I am glad God gave us a sense of humor!