Last week was a lost week in many ways as the girls had off Monday and Tuesday, Mr C had conferences on Thursday so he was out at 11:30 and had no school on Friday, and then Miss A had her school musical on Friday too so that meant there was only one day in which to "git er done" around here! I took that as my chance to eat lunch out with a friend. Who cares that it became brunch/lunch and was nearly time to pick up the kids from school! It was a refreshing break and I loved it.
Needless to say, when I had chance to get things done off my to do list, it was working at lightening speed. Not only did I have my 40 bag challenge awaiting me, I had a number of volunteer jobs that needed my undivided attention. I find on those days I work best if there is music in the background, the fireplace roaring, and a big glass of ice tea awaiting me.
I listened while I worked. It sounds a little like Snow White (whistle while I work), but I got to listen to some great sermon podcasts and some great talk radio. What was really amazing was how a lot of the "talk" I heard dealt with standing firm in the faith and not giving into compromise or worldly standards. Every blog I read talked about this wave of political correctness and how the world is chipping away at what is right.
Now while a part of me wants to just pack it all in and head to Little House on the Prairie or Amish Country, I know that that this is not what God is calling me to do! If He ever did I might have to bring along Air Conditioning........just saying!
However, He does call my family and I to stand firm. We are to know the Truth and not fear standing up for it in the world around us. As a sweet way to affirm that this is truly God working on my heart, my husband just happened to pass along an email he'd gotten with a great story about compromise. Not only did it confirm that it's ok to have standards, convictions and lines in the sand it also made me chuckle a little bit.
Nothing like a little humor to bring a lesson home. I've not shared this story with my children yet; I'm waiting for the moment that I need to "preach"' a little life lesson, but trust me it's stored away in this momma's heart and mind. I know it's a lesson I'm still learning as a Christian living in the World, but not Being of the World. I just know that I'm grateful that God uses moments like this to work on my heart and gives me opportunities to see that His ways are always best.
I'm thinking a batch of brownies might just be in our future!
Dog Poo Brownies (I'm not sure who deserves credit for this story; I got it from the Christian Businessman's Association weekly email" Fax of Life".)
A father listened to all the reasons his children gave for wanting to see a particular PG-13 movie: it had their favorite actors, everyone else was seeing it, even some church members said it was great, it was only rated PG-13 because of the suggestion of sex-they never really showed it, the language was pretty good-they only used the Lord's name in vain three times in the whole movie, the video effects were fabulous and the plot was action packed. Yes, there was the scene where a building and a bunch of people got blown up, but the violence was just the normal stuff, it wasn't very bad. Even with all these explanations for the rating, the father wouldn't give in. He didn't even give them an explanation for saying, "No." He just said "No."
Later that evening, the father asked his kids if they would like some brownies he had prepared. He explained that he had taken the family's favorite recipe and added something new. They asked what it was. He calmly replied that he had added dog poo. He stated that it was only a tiny bit and that all the other ingredients were gourmet quality. He had taken great care to bake it at the precise temperature for the exact time. He was sure the brownies would be superb.
Even with all the explanations of the perfect attributes of the brownies, the kids would not take one. The father acted surprised. There was only a small amount of poo, so what could the problem be? He assured them that they would hardly notice it at all. But they all held firm and would not try the brownies.
He then explained that the movie they wanted to see was just like the brownies. Satan tries to enter our minds and our homes by deceiving us into believing that just a little bit of evil doesn't matter. With the brownies, just a little bit makes all the difference between a great brownie something really gross. He explained that even though the smallest amount of dog poo makes the brownie totally unacceptable, they seemed to having no problem watching a movie of similar ingredients. The people who make movies and TV shows would have us believe their entertainment is acceptable for adults and youths; but they are no more so than dog poo brownies are good to eat!
Now when this father's children want to do something or see something they should not, the father merely asks them if they would like some of his special dog poo brownies and they never ask about it again.
Showing posts with label faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label faith. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Computer Crashes and Preconceived Ideas
I think my neighbors are starting to wonder about me after all the repairman I've had in the house in the past few months. Honestly. Since fall/winter has begun, I've had the washer repaired twice, the dryer repaired once, the furnace checked and rechecked, new appliances installed, and now a computer IT repairman here twice this week.
My laptop which is one year and twelve days old crashed last week. At first, it was just the keyboard and the mouse that didn't work, but after 3 1/2 hours on the phone with an HP repairman in India the whole motherboard wasn't working. Nothing.
Now having had a computer crash a few years back, I had learned my lesson and sent my pictures to Picasa and Picasa Web, I send photos to Walgreens for storage and print out pictures, and I back up my entire computer onto a remote hard drive thus safeguarding me from a total crash and losing everything.
I guess, however, that I wasn't running my anti virus nearly enough ( the IT guy thinks I should run it everyday) and a result I got a virus. A bad virus.
So, after nearly three hours on the phone, I told the lovely man from India that I did not have the time to spend sitting on the phone by my computer so what would be my next choice. He'd send someone to my house. For the low price of $139.99, he could send someone to fix my problem and get me back up and running. Really. "All the way from India" I asked, only to get a chuckle of this nice gentleman who said they would probably use someone more local. Thank goodness.
I'll admit I was a little nervous to have a "techy" come to my house so much so that I called my neighbor just so they would know that I would be having "stranger" repairman at my house. I might have even said "just in case I get murdered, I want someone to know."
I shouldn't have been so quick to judge. My repairman was the nicest gentleman ever and not only did he get my computer completely backed up he came back the next day to reset up my printer, Microsoft office, and email. All together he was here almost 6 hours.
K is a godly young man from Ghana who came to this country three years ago to get his masters degree in computers with the goal of returning to homeland to set up a business to teach his country about technology and educate young people. During the long " downloading process," we talked about our World Vision child from Ghana, Shakum and the future of his homeland. We talked about how Americans are so blessed financially, spiritually and with a life with everything at their disposal and yet how easily we complain or compare or give up.
We talked about how much he loves his Church in America, a church that is filled with men and women from Africa who love Jesus and see themselves as here for a mission. I was amazed at this young man's courage to come all by himself to a foreign country to learn and grow so he can go back "home" again to share all this knowledge with the country he loves.
Mr K fixed more than computer this week, he restored a part of my optimism for our country and our world. He gave me much hope for the future. In him, I saw a hope for Shakum a little boy in Ghana who loves God and Soccer. It encourages me to write to Shakum and tell him about this amazing young man I meet and that I hope someday he can meet too.
While the process of getting back a perfect laptop was long; the end result is so much more than I could have imagined.
My laptop which is one year and twelve days old crashed last week. At first, it was just the keyboard and the mouse that didn't work, but after 3 1/2 hours on the phone with an HP repairman in India the whole motherboard wasn't working. Nothing.
Now having had a computer crash a few years back, I had learned my lesson and sent my pictures to Picasa and Picasa Web, I send photos to Walgreens for storage and print out pictures, and I back up my entire computer onto a remote hard drive thus safeguarding me from a total crash and losing everything.
I guess, however, that I wasn't running my anti virus nearly enough ( the IT guy thinks I should run it everyday) and a result I got a virus. A bad virus.
So, after nearly three hours on the phone, I told the lovely man from India that I did not have the time to spend sitting on the phone by my computer so what would be my next choice. He'd send someone to my house. For the low price of $139.99, he could send someone to fix my problem and get me back up and running. Really. "All the way from India" I asked, only to get a chuckle of this nice gentleman who said they would probably use someone more local. Thank goodness.
I'll admit I was a little nervous to have a "techy" come to my house so much so that I called my neighbor just so they would know that I would be having "stranger" repairman at my house. I might have even said "just in case I get murdered, I want someone to know."
I shouldn't have been so quick to judge. My repairman was the nicest gentleman ever and not only did he get my computer completely backed up he came back the next day to reset up my printer, Microsoft office, and email. All together he was here almost 6 hours.
K is a godly young man from Ghana who came to this country three years ago to get his masters degree in computers with the goal of returning to homeland to set up a business to teach his country about technology and educate young people. During the long " downloading process," we talked about our World Vision child from Ghana, Shakum and the future of his homeland. We talked about how Americans are so blessed financially, spiritually and with a life with everything at their disposal and yet how easily we complain or compare or give up.
We talked about how much he loves his Church in America, a church that is filled with men and women from Africa who love Jesus and see themselves as here for a mission. I was amazed at this young man's courage to come all by himself to a foreign country to learn and grow so he can go back "home" again to share all this knowledge with the country he loves.
Mr K fixed more than computer this week, he restored a part of my optimism for our country and our world. He gave me much hope for the future. In him, I saw a hope for Shakum a little boy in Ghana who loves God and Soccer. It encourages me to write to Shakum and tell him about this amazing young man I meet and that I hope someday he can meet too.
While the process of getting back a perfect laptop was long; the end result is so much more than I could have imagined.
Monday, October 31, 2011
By Grace Through Faith:Mr C's Confirmation
I'm so grateful for that his confirmation is not the end of Mr C's faith journey. He does not see confirmation as a graduation from learning and growing in his faith and knowledge of Jesus. Rather, the knowledge he's gotten from three years of confirmation classes have encouraged him to look deeper into the Word. He's asked deep questions about faith, doctrine, and Biblical truth. These lively discussions have been just another spark in his soul (and ours).
My husband and I know that God has big plans for Mr C in the future and are anxious to see how they unfold. Our prayer is that Mr C will always live out his confirmation verse and that it will be the life verse that leads him daily.
Of course, to celebrate this big day, we had a great dinner at our new favorite Thai restaurant. Mr C tried the Thai Iced Tea, but quickly realized that he's more of hot tea fan. Miss M of course was willing to trade with her brother! Miss A even enjoyed the food, which if you know her, is rather impressive. P and I decided that we are now entering the phase of "dinning out" where its worth it to go a little nicer and enjoy the experience. Who knows Miss A might even request a real restaurant next year for her birthday. No more BK for us!
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Freestyle Preacher Man
For theology class, Mr C was asked to read a book by a Christian Author and then give a persuasive speech outlining why the rest of the class should read the book. Now to put it in perspective, I should say that Mr C hates to read. Unlike his two sisters and mother, he's never meet a book he's loved or been drawn to read just for fun. He reads only what is required and it's still a challenge to get him to read that.
Now don't be feeling sorry for the boy, he can read. He's been reading at a 12th grade level for six years. In fact, he scored higher on the reading part of the ACT test in 7th grade than the math portion. Math you will remember is his favorite subject. (Yuck. Sometimes I wonder where this child came from!)
Of course because his mother loves to read, I had plenty of books to offer the boy. He took both David Platt's Radical and Francis Chan's Crazy Love. Not easy reads, but oh so powerful. Crazy Love was his final choice and Radical went home with another unsuspecting young man. I'm thinking that book might have scared his parents and him, but hey that's the gospel for you. It will rock your world.
He loved the Crazy Love. In fact, he read it all and is thinking of reading it again this winter after football season when he can really digest its deep thoughts. Now that's my boy!
Mr C is a little radical himself in his faith. If you don't believe me just ask Miss M who dies of embarrassment each Sunday during worship when Mr. C will do the actions to Days of Elijah or to Love the Lord Your God. The boys in Mr C's math class at school (all sophomores and then Mr C) call him the Freestyler for his prayers before class starts. Most boys say the Lords Prayer or a just a quick Thank You God prayer, but not Mr C. He prayers protection for the football team on game days, clear minds on test days and gratitude on early dismissal days! Freestyle prayers, what a gift.
Here's Mr C's speech on the book Crazy Love:
Have you ever wondered if we are missing it? Just take a moment to process this. the creator of all the Universe and everything around you, loved you so much that he sent His Son to die for you. Jesus died for you, one of the worst deaths imaginable, while you were still a sinner. Would you die for a man like Osama bin Laden or Hitler? God did the equivalent for you. We just don't have the capacity to love like Him.
That is what Crazy Love is all about. The author Francis Chan, did a great job explaining how much God loves us, in a way we can understand. One of his main points in the book is to profile a lukewarm Christian. This is somebody who does things to be good, but doesn't really have a real relationship with God. Chan talks about how God doesn't want a lukewarm person, but commands us to follow him. He doesn't say" when it fits your schedule" or "how ever you want it" God wants us to love Him, be obsessed with Him.
You should read this book because it will show you what Christ wants you to live like, because when you are madly in love it changes everything!
Preach it brother, preach it! Love that boy!
Now don't be feeling sorry for the boy, he can read. He's been reading at a 12th grade level for six years. In fact, he scored higher on the reading part of the ACT test in 7th grade than the math portion. Math you will remember is his favorite subject. (Yuck. Sometimes I wonder where this child came from!)
Of course because his mother loves to read, I had plenty of books to offer the boy. He took both David Platt's Radical and Francis Chan's Crazy Love. Not easy reads, but oh so powerful. Crazy Love was his final choice and Radical went home with another unsuspecting young man. I'm thinking that book might have scared his parents and him, but hey that's the gospel for you. It will rock your world.
He loved the Crazy Love. In fact, he read it all and is thinking of reading it again this winter after football season when he can really digest its deep thoughts. Now that's my boy!
Mr C is a little radical himself in his faith. If you don't believe me just ask Miss M who dies of embarrassment each Sunday during worship when Mr. C will do the actions to Days of Elijah or to Love the Lord Your God. The boys in Mr C's math class at school (all sophomores and then Mr C) call him the Freestyler for his prayers before class starts. Most boys say the Lords Prayer or a just a quick Thank You God prayer, but not Mr C. He prayers protection for the football team on game days, clear minds on test days and gratitude on early dismissal days! Freestyle prayers, what a gift.
Here's Mr C's speech on the book Crazy Love:
Have you ever wondered if we are missing it? Just take a moment to process this. the creator of all the Universe and everything around you, loved you so much that he sent His Son to die for you. Jesus died for you, one of the worst deaths imaginable, while you were still a sinner. Would you die for a man like Osama bin Laden or Hitler? God did the equivalent for you. We just don't have the capacity to love like Him.
That is what Crazy Love is all about. The author Francis Chan, did a great job explaining how much God loves us, in a way we can understand. One of his main points in the book is to profile a lukewarm Christian. This is somebody who does things to be good, but doesn't really have a real relationship with God. Chan talks about how God doesn't want a lukewarm person, but commands us to follow him. He doesn't say" when it fits your schedule" or "how ever you want it" God wants us to love Him, be obsessed with Him.
You should read this book because it will show you what Christ wants you to live like, because when you are madly in love it changes everything!
Preach it brother, preach it! Love that boy!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Be Strong and Courageous
Life can be hard and it can break your heart to hear of friends going through challenges that rock their world. On Saturday, good friends were shocked to hear that their eleven year old son had Leukemia. While his prognosis is excellent, it will be a long road back to health and my heart breaks for the fact that in an instant their lives have forever been changed.
Yet through it all, they are pressing forward relying on their faith and have adopted a family motto for the battle ahead; Be Strong and Courageous.
In my CBS (Community Bible Study) class, we've been studying Joshua and in the first chapter alone, God commands Joshua to "be strong and courageous" three times. When God says something that many times, He means it. Our Bible memory verse for last week was Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified: do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
This is the perfect verse for Cole's family as they walk through this storm in the months ahead. Not only are they not to be discouraged or terrified, they are to be confident that God is right there in the midst of it, at their side, feeling their fear, hearing their prayers, and bringing them comfort.
I'm confident that the story this family will have to share on the other side of this storm will bring God great glory, it will be one of God's constant presence and peace. He alone will see them through and He will never leave them or forsake them.
Be Strong and Courageous Cole. I can't wait to hear how God is using this young man in the years ahead to do mighty things, just like Joshua!
I love this song by Matthew West "Strong Enough" and I think it's a great reminder to that God will give us the strength and courage to face the challenge He sets before us. We don't have to be the strong one as Christ will be our strength when we are weak.
We'll be praying for you everyday.
Yet through it all, they are pressing forward relying on their faith and have adopted a family motto for the battle ahead; Be Strong and Courageous.
In my CBS (Community Bible Study) class, we've been studying Joshua and in the first chapter alone, God commands Joshua to "be strong and courageous" three times. When God says something that many times, He means it. Our Bible memory verse for last week was Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified: do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
This is the perfect verse for Cole's family as they walk through this storm in the months ahead. Not only are they not to be discouraged or terrified, they are to be confident that God is right there in the midst of it, at their side, feeling their fear, hearing their prayers, and bringing them comfort.
I'm confident that the story this family will have to share on the other side of this storm will bring God great glory, it will be one of God's constant presence and peace. He alone will see them through and He will never leave them or forsake them.
Be Strong and Courageous Cole. I can't wait to hear how God is using this young man in the years ahead to do mighty things, just like Joshua!
I love this song by Matthew West "Strong Enough" and I think it's a great reminder to that God will give us the strength and courage to face the challenge He sets before us. We don't have to be the strong one as Christ will be our strength when we are weak.
We'll be praying for you everyday.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
You and Your Girl Simulcast: What A Day!
I've always wanted to go to a Vicki Courtney event with my daughter. As an avid fan of her books and blog, I knew that I would benefit so much from hearing Vicki's insight into mothering girls and I knew I could use some of her advice. It's not easy to raise a girl today and to bring one up to know and love God in today's culture takes extra prayers and encouragement.
Let's just say that the You and Your Girl Simulcast was just what I needed!
I'm so thankful that my church caught my vision and signed up to be a host site. Not only did it allow me to be at a Vicki Courtney event five minutes from home, it meant that I could share this day with some great women in our community. Two of my dear friends even brought a book table to the event. They didn't even mind giving up their Saturday to man the book table, even though they are mothers of just boys!
Vicki's messages really spoke to me. My listening guide is filled to the brim with my notes on her message on "Growing a Godly Daughter in a World that is Ungodly" and I loved the visual of being the gardener of our daughter's heart. I have the quote "expose our child's heart to the Son" written in my calendar so I make sure I'm making that a priority instead of just driving her to dance, softball etc.
The reminder that "girls who are delighted in, feel more delightful" was like a gentle nudge to always have fun with Miss M and Miss A and to tell them what a joy they are to me. I need to make sure that I'm showing them with my words, actions and deeds how much I enjoy them. I had never heard of "backdoor moments" before and the concept that to the degrees kids can predict me, they will dismiss me really resonated with me. I need to be looking for ways to impart values in daily life, not looking for those perfect moments to "teach or preach," but to be open to the backdoor moments.
More than anything, I was convicted that this summer I want to live out Philippians 4:8-9 and making sure that the "daily bread" is part of our families daily diet! If we are filling up our minds with whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, it will change how we live.
Vicki's final challenge to both mothers' and daughters was to fill our souls with things that build our faith and fast from those things that tear you away from Christ. She told us to create a list of "more of....less of.." challenges that we wanted to see in our lives. More of Christ, Less of Me etc.
My list is long. There are a lot of things that I need to get rid of in my life so that I have more of Christ in me. I'm still working through all these things, and listening to God's direction on what he wants me to do.
What a glorious, challenging and convicting message. What a great day.
Let's just say that the You and Your Girl Simulcast was just what I needed!
I'm so thankful that my church caught my vision and signed up to be a host site. Not only did it allow me to be at a Vicki Courtney event five minutes from home, it meant that I could share this day with some great women in our community. Two of my dear friends even brought a book table to the event. They didn't even mind giving up their Saturday to man the book table, even though they are mothers of just boys!
Vicki's messages really spoke to me. My listening guide is filled to the brim with my notes on her message on "Growing a Godly Daughter in a World that is Ungodly" and I loved the visual of being the gardener of our daughter's heart. I have the quote "expose our child's heart to the Son" written in my calendar so I make sure I'm making that a priority instead of just driving her to dance, softball etc.
The reminder that "girls who are delighted in, feel more delightful" was like a gentle nudge to always have fun with Miss M and Miss A and to tell them what a joy they are to me. I need to make sure that I'm showing them with my words, actions and deeds how much I enjoy them. I had never heard of "backdoor moments" before and the concept that to the degrees kids can predict me, they will dismiss me really resonated with me. I need to be looking for ways to impart values in daily life, not looking for those perfect moments to "teach or preach," but to be open to the backdoor moments.
More than anything, I was convicted that this summer I want to live out Philippians 4:8-9 and making sure that the "daily bread" is part of our families daily diet! If we are filling up our minds with whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, it will change how we live.
Vicki's final challenge to both mothers' and daughters was to fill our souls with things that build our faith and fast from those things that tear you away from Christ. She told us to create a list of "more of....less of.." challenges that we wanted to see in our lives. More of Christ, Less of Me etc.
My list is long. There are a lot of things that I need to get rid of in my life so that I have more of Christ in me. I'm still working through all these things, and listening to God's direction on what he wants me to do.
What a glorious, challenging and convicting message. What a great day.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Outside My Comfort Zone
Photos: smashing the leftover boxes, listening to instructions, packing up shoes, P and C were on box stacking duty-perfect fit as they looked at analytically, Mrs Starkey and C-amazing C had made one of these blankets for 8th grade leadership team and now it's off to Sierra Leone.
Today, I was pushed outside my comfort zone and I must admit it was a gift. I love to serve God, but I tend to focus on areas that are comfortable for me, safe, easy, and not things that cause me to go outside my self too much.
I'm willing to give everything to God, but in my heart I hope He never asks me to do the "hard stuff." Teach a Bible Study, no problem. Organize a meal for a grieving family, check. Pray out loud in a group or at a public place, got it. Minister to the poor, serve the homeless, wrap my arms around the orphans; this is where I'd love to say yes, but if I'm honest my real answer is God, can you find someone else?
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I love my comfortable life. I'm a snob. I am a person who desires creature comforts and doesn't like to expose myself to the real side of life. Just being honest.
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I live an solid middle class life and spend most of my time and life in that world. For the most part, it's surrounded by Christians who like me pray for the lost and the hurting, but hope that someone else is going to meet their daily needs.
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Today, my family had the opportunity to serve. We were able to help pack boxes for Sierra Leone and provide for men and women and children who have very little. I would love to tell you how proud I am of my family today. How awesome it was to see my kids just step up to the plate and serve with hearts wide open.
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But first, I have to be honest and tell you that the job I did today "sorting clothes" so they could be boxed by age and gender was way outside my comfort zone. I don't do used clothing. I'm not comfortable in a thrift store. I'm a snob remember. I like my things new or in the very least handed down from a relative. That's safe.
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However, I also need to tell you of the heartbreak inside me as I sorted through bags upon bags of clothing and household goods. Bags that were filled to brim with discards and leftovers. I'm speaking of myself here just so you know, but I was ashamed of the reality of how carelessly we give it away. Too many items had to be tossed away because they contained holes or were dirty or inappropriate. They weren't good enough for us to send overseas.
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How often have I given away my leftovers. Things I see as not worthy. This goes way beyond clothing and goods, it has to do with my time, talents and resources. Do I give away only what's leftover after I used my best for myself and my family?
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As we prayed over the massive boxes ready to ship to the people loved by God in Sierra Leone, it hit me so deeply that it's our leftovers that are becoming their bounty. Our castoffs will become their treasures. However, while the things in those boxes might be the rejected, the love, the hard work, the prayers and the hope for those receiving them are not castoffs at all, they are the very best.
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I'm still processing what all this means for me and my family. While I don't see myself packing a bag tomorrow and moving to the middle of Africa, I can see myself giving up some of my luxuries so that others can have the necessities. I'll be more careful when I give my things away and make sure that they are things that can be used and I'm not just discarding things no one would want.
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Stretching myself outside my comfort zone might get uncomfortable. It might lead me to listen to God's prompts to do things that are "scary" and more challenging, but I know one thing; the blessings I'll receive will more than cover any cost to my self control.
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Who knew all this could be learned sorting through bags of castoffs!
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Matthew 25:37-40 NIV
The the righteous will answer him, "Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give some thing to drink. When did we see you a stranger and invite you in or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?"
The King will reply, " I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."
Monday, March 7, 2011
Miss M's Big Day
Photos: Lunch at Paradise, Pastors and Miss M being goofy, Fancy New Dress and of course the "Modest" Heels.
Miss M had her First Communion yesterday. Not only did she get to taste wine for the first time, she was also wearing "modest" heels for the occasion. After weeks of working through the Table of the Lord program and talking through what we believe communion means, she was ready. A few weeks ago as I drove her to dance, we had a long conversation about Heaven/Hell/Faith and I was blown away by how she is processing both her head and heart knowledge.
I told my husband that our conversation was so deep that I was wishing for a Bible and concordance to back up our discussion. She not only has a personal relationship with Jesus, she gets how important it is to be able to back your faith up with knowledge. Plus she has compassion and a heart for those who are not yet aware of God's remarkable gift.
M was more than ready for this step on her faith journey. She not only understands the significance of Christ's body and blood being shed for her salvation, she is able to articulate how grateful she is for this gift.
She was so excited walking up to the altar that she was actually shaking a little bit. Of course her brother's prompting not to drop the wine glass, to swallow the bread with the wine, and how to put the glass away in the basket probably had her all nervous. Poor girl, it's hard to have a big brother!
M said the wine "wasn't bad," but she not sure why we get so excited about Trader Joe's wine! Gotta love that girl.
To celebrate, we had lunch out at "Paradise" just like we did when Mr C had his first communion a few years ago. Miss M said it was a tradition and could you really pick a more aptly named place to celebrate?
Congratulations Miss M on this milestone in your faith walk. May this just be the beginning of a close relationship with Jesus and a deep "communion" with Him who loves you deeply.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Sunday's aren't really sacred anymore
As I pulled into the parking lot a little bit before 10:45 this morning, I had trouble finding a parking place. It was a Sunday Morning at 10:45 and the parking lot was bursting at the seams with people everywhere.
Sadly, the parking lot I'm talking about does not belong to a Church or a place of worship. It belongs to a softball league and the people in the lot were hustling not to find a place in a pew or a seat in a Bible study, they were scurrying about to softball games for games that had started at 10:30 in the morning. On a Sunday morning.
On the way to this field, I passed by another parking lot that normally is filled with happy people, but on this Sunday morning was closed so that employees at this establishment could have the day off to worship with their families. It belonged to Hobby Lobby.
How sad is it that big "corporation" gets that Sunday mornings/days should be set aside for worship and family time, but a girls softball league views those time slots before noon on Sunday as a time to fit in one more game that day. A day they view as no different than Saturday.
To be honest, I really wanted to protest and not send Miss M to this first game of a new league/new season. I wanted to prove a point that our family observes the Sabbath, that we view Sunday morning as precious time set aside for God and corporate worship. Next Sunday morning game time I will. Two girls on our team did "protest" and not come to the game today. I respected their decision.
My husband and M skipped church today for two reasons only. C and P had been camping all weekend and arrived home just before we needed to leave for Church. C jumped in the shower and off he and Miss A and I went to church. There was not enough time for P to shower and unpack the wet camping gear. Second, P was the coach of 9 of the girls joining this fall league and felt he needed to be at the first game to introduce his team/parents to the new coach and league.
Sadly, today's early morning Sunday game is nothing new in our society. I'm not here to judge whether you are right or wrong in allowing your child to participate in a game that conflicts with Church time. Obviously today we can not sit in that judgement.
However, it seems that this is just one more sign of the ever growing Post-Christian Culture rampant in America today. They never would have scheduled a soccer, softball, or volleyball game on a Sunday morning when I was a child. Never! Until recently schools in our area didn't give homework on Wednesday nights knowing that a number of the children participated in either Wednesday night church activities.
Society seemed to know there was a line you did not cross. Sunday mornings were different than Saturday mornings. Why is that in our town you can't sell Beer or Liquor before noon on Sunday, but it's no problem to schedule a game, practice or tournament on a Sunday morning?
Sunday is no longer sacred in our country. This not only makes me mad that organized sports and organizations can stomp all over our "time of worship," but more than anything it makes me sad. Do we really need to play that many games of softball? Does a soccer tournament really need to be played on Sunday morning?
I'm gonna step off my soapbox for a moment to say I don't have all the answers. I don't know how to respond to society trampling my religious freedom while protecting others at all costs. I'm not trying to become a political blog. I have strong views, but I'll keep them to myself most of the time.
Sadly, the parking lot I'm talking about does not belong to a Church or a place of worship. It belongs to a softball league and the people in the lot were hustling not to find a place in a pew or a seat in a Bible study, they were scurrying about to softball games for games that had started at 10:30 in the morning. On a Sunday morning.
On the way to this field, I passed by another parking lot that normally is filled with happy people, but on this Sunday morning was closed so that employees at this establishment could have the day off to worship with their families. It belonged to Hobby Lobby.
How sad is it that big "corporation" gets that Sunday mornings/days should be set aside for worship and family time, but a girls softball league views those time slots before noon on Sunday as a time to fit in one more game that day. A day they view as no different than Saturday.
To be honest, I really wanted to protest and not send Miss M to this first game of a new league/new season. I wanted to prove a point that our family observes the Sabbath, that we view Sunday morning as precious time set aside for God and corporate worship. Next Sunday morning game time I will. Two girls on our team did "protest" and not come to the game today. I respected their decision.
My husband and M skipped church today for two reasons only. C and P had been camping all weekend and arrived home just before we needed to leave for Church. C jumped in the shower and off he and Miss A and I went to church. There was not enough time for P to shower and unpack the wet camping gear. Second, P was the coach of 9 of the girls joining this fall league and felt he needed to be at the first game to introduce his team/parents to the new coach and league.
Sadly, today's early morning Sunday game is nothing new in our society. I'm not here to judge whether you are right or wrong in allowing your child to participate in a game that conflicts with Church time. Obviously today we can not sit in that judgement.
However, it seems that this is just one more sign of the ever growing Post-Christian Culture rampant in America today. They never would have scheduled a soccer, softball, or volleyball game on a Sunday morning when I was a child. Never! Until recently schools in our area didn't give homework on Wednesday nights knowing that a number of the children participated in either Wednesday night church activities.
Society seemed to know there was a line you did not cross. Sunday mornings were different than Saturday mornings. Why is that in our town you can't sell Beer or Liquor before noon on Sunday, but it's no problem to schedule a game, practice or tournament on a Sunday morning?
Sunday is no longer sacred in our country. This not only makes me mad that organized sports and organizations can stomp all over our "time of worship," but more than anything it makes me sad. Do we really need to play that many games of softball? Does a soccer tournament really need to be played on Sunday morning?
I'm gonna step off my soapbox for a moment to say I don't have all the answers. I don't know how to respond to society trampling my religious freedom while protecting others at all costs. I'm not trying to become a political blog. I have strong views, but I'll keep them to myself most of the time.
However, I wonder if by sitting on the sidelines at the softball game today at 11 a.m. in my Church clothes nonetheless was giving in to this new "sabbath." Give me wisdom God to know how to be in the world, but not of the world. God, right now would be a great time to use those lightning bolts and burning bushes to send me the right answer.
For now, I think I'll just be praying about what my family can do to honor our commitment to God and to our daughter's softball team.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Taking Down Christmas...
I talked my husband into taking down the Christmas stuff yesterday. We have plans for New Years Eve and New Years Day and I just couldn't imagine taking it all down next weekend...or maybe I couldn't stand the thought of having it all up any longer.Christmas is over right? We've spent nearly 5 days trapped in this house due to the "Holiday (we say Christmas) Blizzard of 2009" and I was sick of looking at our tree, stockings, and various little doo dads. I'm not really an accessory person. I'm kinda of minimalist and having all the extra trimmings in our house gets to me after awhile.
I love the weeks leading up to Christmas sitting by the tree with all the lights off save those on the branches. I love to look at the stockings my great aunt loving needlepointed and think of the all the hours of work and all the hours of fun getting just the right gifts to go inside. I love to see all the presents under the tree and imagine the look of joy and excitement on the recipient's face. I even love all the little things that come into our house each Christmas season such as new ornaments, new little chocolate treats from friends, and the fun cards and pictures from afar.
But now, days after Christmas, it loses it's luster. It starts to look like clutter to me.
I'm sorta ashamed to admit it, but I can't stand all the Christmas glitz and glitter days or weeks after the fact. Some may think that it's kinda Ba Humbug of me I guess. Instead, I think it speaks volumes of what I think about Christmas. I love it! The real Christmas. The Birth of Christ and the promise that the tiny baby in the manger means to me and my family. Grace and Peace and Eternal Life.
There was no glitz or glamor for the baby in the manger. It's just the real thing. God Among Us.
At the center of Christmas tree right next to the branches is a big steel Christmas nail hanging from a red velvet ribbon. It's there among the branches to remind me that the meaning of Christmas really points to the Cross. Without the Cross and the Nails that hung Jesus there, it would all be meaningless. Sure it would still be a wonderful story about a baby born in a manger 2000 years ago, but without the cross that's all it would be.
Maybe the reason deep down that I want to get rid of the remnants of Christmas and the decorations is that it takes my focus away from the Cross and the Savior and my need for His grace, forgiveness and peace. It makes it seem like the glamour is all that there is. It makes it seem like if I get all "dolled" up on the outside, if my house looks Martha Stewart perfect with all the "right" decorations," I'm worth it. I have it all together. I really don't need a tiny baby to save me from my sins. I can do it all on my own. I know, though, that this is not true. Reality is much different.
Really it's so much more. The Real Christmas lives right in my heart. I can have Christ Among Me every day. No fancy dress or perfect fir wreath needed. Maybe that's why once Christmas is over I don't need those trappings any more.
Oh, and I don't like clutter either.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
What Ever Happened to the Low Key Dance Recital?
I loved to dance as a little girl. My mother says that I would refuse to buy dresses unless they first passed the twirl test. The better the twirl and the movement of the dress the better.
I took Ballet classes in the basement of one of my mother's oldest friends' house. They had converted the basement into a Dance Studio with a large wall of mirrors, a Ballet Barre, and wooden floors.
Recitals were in that very same basement. Costumes were a leotard, a tutu, and tights. Nothing fancy.
I remember when I was in 2nd grade and the lead dancer in my Saturday morning class got the chicken pox during the week of the recital. Lead dancer in my mind only. She was the girl I watched so I could remember the steps. She was not going to be in the recital. Too sick.
My stomach was sick thinking that I would actually have to know the dance myself. It all worked out fine and I later learned everyone else was watching me for the steps. By the time we had cookies and lemonade after the recital in that very same basement, my butterflies had gone away and I was having fun.
Dance was fun. The girls were fun to be with. Recitals were a chance to show our parents what we'd been learning. We were thrilled to perform for our small group of parents. No stress. Low cost. I still remember all the Ballet Positions.
M has been taking dance for 7 years. She does not know what first position is today. Dance no longer stresses the classical ballet movements.
I'm struggling with what to do about Dance and M in the years ahead.
Our studio's recital was this weekend. It was at a Big Theater Downtown. A huge stage that normally has productions from Broadway, the local Opera etc. I saw "Wicked" just weeks ago in this very theater. This weekend's recital was a big production.
We had to be at Dress Rehearsal Friday at 3:00. Little A, who was in only one number besides the Finale, was in dance #38. She didn't go on stage until 6:45. Yep. Parents were not even allowed out in the front of the house to watch the Dress Rehearsal. We had to stay backstage the entire time unless our girls were on stage performing and then we could quickly run out front watch and then run backstage once again. Very little time for photos.
M was in a total of 8 dances, 8 costume changes, and 8 hairstyle changes. Plus the Finale. That's a lot of costumes people. Yes, she'd already performed 3 of the dances year round at dance competitions and knew them by heart, but she still had to perform a jazz, tap, ballet and all competition opening number.
We had to be back at the Theater Saturday at 2:45 for a 4:00 Recital that ended at 6:30. ( I won't even talk about the softball game at 9 a.m. or the end of VBS on Friday at 12:00.
Where has that "little basement with the cookies and lemonade recital" gone? It seems like everything has to be big and flashy. Are we no longer satisfied with the things on a small scale?
A few of the little girls I saw had been to get their hair done for the recital. Girls had on more makeup and glitter than I've worn in my entire life. They were done up. Not just so they wouldn't look pale under the stage lights, but for the glamor effect.
A few of the dances and the costumes made me happy that C was still at his baseball game and didn't have to watch girls dressed like that or dancing in ways that made me blush a little.
We go to a pretty conservative studio I thought. M and A's costumes were cute and the dances very appropriate, but I noticed that some of the hip hop and older girls are doing things that I'm not sure I feel comfortable with.
Tomorrow are the try outs for the next year's competition teams. M of course wants to go. I'm really struggling. Not only is competition dance a huge commitment of time, money and resources; I'm really wondering what message I'm sending to M with all this dance.
Will her body image be impacted by how the other girls look? Will she want to loose weight, dress in a certain way or listen to music I might not approve because the other girls are? She's perfect the way she is, but she'll never have that tiny ballet body. She's a good dancer, but she's not a superstar.
What about standing up for our values/our faith/ our standards? Can I claim one thing at home and then turn the other way when it comes to costumes, recitals, dance moves? Am I able to impact that a woman is more than her body when she sees all those competition dances moving and shaking and grooving their booties on stages?
Tell me again what happened to that basement dance studio with the strict teacher, first position, stretching, pointing toes and plies?
For the opening number of the Recital all levels of Competition Girls were dancing with halter top tank tops and black shorts. M was the only girl wearing long Justice Shorts. Everyone else wore "booty shorts." I had first sent her in softball/soccer shorts and the teacher said no they had to be all black/ no Adidas name on the back etc. So we got M a pair of shorts that she can wear whenever she wants. Black Shorts that are walking short length . While she's allowed to wear short shorts for sleeping and wearing over swimsuits, she can't wear booty shorts for anything.
My theory is that if they don't cover your entire "t.sh," they are underwear not shorts!
So how do I balance all of this? Do we quit dance all together? Do we cut back to just a ballet and tap class and opt out of the recital? Do we again look for a new studio?
M loves to dance. She's danced her whole life, all the time. To music, no music. She dances to the credits of a movie when they play a long song. She and A are always putting on little dances for us.
A wants to try Soccer in the fall. She's not a dancer. Really she's not a performer like M. She liked the dance class because she could see some friends and have some fun. She liked the Recital, but she didn't love it!
Stay tuned for more discussion on this and feel free to weigh in with your own thoughts.
Friday, March 20, 2009
No Longer A Little Boy
C at 3 months old wearing shades for his first baseball game (June 1997)
C at Diversity Day Speech 09/ First Day of Sixth Grade Fall 08
My oldest child and only son turns 12 today.
12.
How can this be?
I remember the moment so clearly.
It was when the doctor, at 6:13 p.m. on the first day of spring 1997, said the words, "It's A Boy" and forever changed my life.
The long awaited baby was finally in my arms. The answer to many prayers.
I remember when we took him home a few days later wondering when the real parents would show up. You know the ones who knew what to do with a baby. My husband and I thought for sure we'd be pulled over on the way home from the hospital by the "parent police" saying we were ill prepared.
He has always been a joy. He is easy going, funny, smart as a whip, compassionate, and kind hearted. C is confident, fun, happy, focused, and lazy. He's known what he wants to do for the rest of his life since early childhood, but can't remember how to pick up his room or make his bed.
His heart for God and others can bring me to tears in an instant. He gets it. He loves Jesus with everything he has.
He asked me the other day if I'd like to be around for the second coming and see Jesus' triumphant return or be in heaven when it happens. I said heaven. He said he's still deciding. While he'd like to know what it's like to take your final breath on earth, he'd love to see Jesus in the sky too! That's some heavy thinking.
I love that his favorite radio station is K-LOVE and that he asks me to turn up Chris Tomlin or Sanctus Real so he can sing along. I love that he's taught our 4 year old to sing Toby Mac songs.
I love that, on his birthday, he is participating in a 30 Hour Fast for World Vision. Today at 12 noon, he had his last bite of food until tomorrow at 6:00 p.m.
We had a birthday lunch at Arby's today at 11:30 to celebrate and then this evening, he was off to church to get a little taste of what hunger feels like.
We talked today that the difference between him giving up food for 30 hours and hungry children in Africa or America is that he knows when his hunger will be satisfied. They don't. He knows that he will be breaking his fast with a huge Spaghetti dinner tomorrow night while they don't know when they will eat again or what it will be.
C told his grandparents that he was a little bummed that it was his birthday and he was fasting, but it was too important and he cared too much about it not to participate. He asked people to support the fast with as little as $1 which is enough to feed 1 person for a whole day. He gave enough out of his own pocket to feed 10 and raised enough to feed 142 people today or 1 person for 3 months and 12 days.
Poor C, he's been our test case and our first attempt at parenting. We are still learning this job and he's had to be patient with us as we figure it out. How thankful I am that's he's so forgiving and easy mannered.
What a kid. I love you C. I'm so proud of the young man you are becoming. You might not be that cute little baby anymore, but you'll always be my favorite boy in the whole wide world.
C at Diversity Day Speech 09/ First Day of Sixth Grade Fall 08
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Don't Just Pass By: Do Someting
My husband and I watched ABC Television's Primetime: What Would You Do http://abcnews.go.com/whatwouldyoudo show this week. I must say what I saw disturbed me. It stirred emotions and feelings that I didn't know I held so close or so dear.
The show had a few different "scenarios" that showed individuals involved in activities that were either dangerous, cruel, or in need of rescue. The question posed was "what would you do" and either get involved or not. Either out of moral conviction or a desire to help out, would people step up to the plate and get in the middle of something that did not directly impact them?
The first case study involved College Age Fraternity Members hazing "pledges." There was "alcohol" along with name calling and general hazing happening on a public square in a small town. A group of boys were shown first and then a group of girls. The hazing with the boys was more dangerous looking, strapping someone to a pool with little clothes and pouring vodka (water) down their throats.
Most people walked by, took pictures or gawked at this "tradition," but a few got involved. Those that did started calling 911. They released the boy from the pole. They got into the faces of the older boys and said this was torture and was wrong.
The girls in the hazing "incident" were much meaner. They called the girls names, they wrote profanity on their clothes and, while there was alcohol involved, the attacks were much more personal and provocative.
Cameras were flying out of purses, people gave ideas for names to call the girls, one teenager even participated in the hazing at the "girls" suggestions. Men and young boys gawked and watched in utter amusement. My husband thought it was like watching mud wrestling and most of the men thought it was funny.
We were appalled at how few got involved; How few women got angry. I almost cried when a father step up and stopped the hazing. He was stern and forceful with a big heart to stop it all. I might have applauded him, too!!
The "WWYD" incident that really got me was the "Aiding the Fallen" scenario in which a wealthy attractive young women who is nicely dressed suddenly collapsed in the middle of a sidewalk in suburban NJ. Within 3 or 4 seconds, people are attending to her, calling for help, and talking calmly to her. She falls and people come to her aid. They are compassionate, touching her hair, reassuring her help is on the way. They are quick to react; Helpful; Concerned.
This was not the case in "Aiding the Fallen Part Two" where the person in need of help is a homeless looking man holding a beer can. When he collapsed, the minutes ticked away with no one coming to his rescue, no one seeing if they could help. It was like he was a trash bag on the sidewalk and they walked around to get to their next thing.
My heart was breaking. I held back tears thinking of how heartless and judgemental our society has become. Where is compassion? Where is empathy? That man is a Child of God no matter the condition of his clothing, his home life or his social economic status. He is a person.
The only person who really came to his rescue was a women much in need of help herself. She is scruffy looking with a can and without a cell phone. She asks each passerby to help her help him. She is a real "Good Samaritan." She gets in close to the man and gives him a name as he is unresponsive. She talks calmly and soothing to him. She offers him hope. She had little to give herself, but she gave all she had.
How many times have I read the Good Samaritan story in the Bible or in a child's story book and thought that wouldn't happen today. It wouldn't be the last person on the road that would stop. We live in America. No one would walk right by a needy person and not offer help. I'm wrong. We do. I'm sure I have. What has become of us?
My husband and I talked about what makes a person stop and what makes a person go on like it's someone else' job. For me it's a sense of justice; of right and wrong. I can't stand to see someone being treated unfairly. Does that mean I get involved in every social cause or champion every downtrodden person? No, I can't. However, if I can do something, I will.
I remember when I was a teenager, my parents and I were at an ice cream store on a summer night. A bar/restaurant was a few doors down. I watched an obviously drunk man get into a car. I started to freak out wanting my dad to go stop the man. He could kill people. We called the police with a description of the car, the driver and direction the man was traveling. We followed him at a safe distance until help arrived.
Why? Because I knew I couldn't sleep if we didn't get him stopped. Is this a learned skill, a heart tug or God's urging? I think it's a little of each. It is the Holy Spirit leading us to act with compassion, empathy, and faith that doing something will result in a much better outcome than doing nothing.
How I pray that in my daily life I'm modeling this Good Samaritan attitude to my children. In the little and the big, I hope I'm showing them that they can make a difference. It is our job to help our fellow man. God does call us to love the unlovable, to serve the downtrodden, and the widow. We can do that by opening our homes, our wallets, and our hearts to those we see every day and to those half way around the world.
God give me the wisdom, the ability and the desire to be your hands and feet today and everyday. Don't let me be a passerby. I want to be one of those who steps up and does something. Let it be so!
The show had a few different "scenarios" that showed individuals involved in activities that were either dangerous, cruel, or in need of rescue. The question posed was "what would you do" and either get involved or not. Either out of moral conviction or a desire to help out, would people step up to the plate and get in the middle of something that did not directly impact them?
The first case study involved College Age Fraternity Members hazing "pledges." There was "alcohol" along with name calling and general hazing happening on a public square in a small town. A group of boys were shown first and then a group of girls. The hazing with the boys was more dangerous looking, strapping someone to a pool with little clothes and pouring vodka (water) down their throats.
Most people walked by, took pictures or gawked at this "tradition," but a few got involved. Those that did started calling 911. They released the boy from the pole. They got into the faces of the older boys and said this was torture and was wrong.
The girls in the hazing "incident" were much meaner. They called the girls names, they wrote profanity on their clothes and, while there was alcohol involved, the attacks were much more personal and provocative.
Cameras were flying out of purses, people gave ideas for names to call the girls, one teenager even participated in the hazing at the "girls" suggestions. Men and young boys gawked and watched in utter amusement. My husband thought it was like watching mud wrestling and most of the men thought it was funny.
We were appalled at how few got involved; How few women got angry. I almost cried when a father step up and stopped the hazing. He was stern and forceful with a big heart to stop it all. I might have applauded him, too!!
The "WWYD" incident that really got me was the "Aiding the Fallen" scenario in which a wealthy attractive young women who is nicely dressed suddenly collapsed in the middle of a sidewalk in suburban NJ. Within 3 or 4 seconds, people are attending to her, calling for help, and talking calmly to her. She falls and people come to her aid. They are compassionate, touching her hair, reassuring her help is on the way. They are quick to react; Helpful; Concerned.
This was not the case in "Aiding the Fallen Part Two" where the person in need of help is a homeless looking man holding a beer can. When he collapsed, the minutes ticked away with no one coming to his rescue, no one seeing if they could help. It was like he was a trash bag on the sidewalk and they walked around to get to their next thing.
My heart was breaking. I held back tears thinking of how heartless and judgemental our society has become. Where is compassion? Where is empathy? That man is a Child of God no matter the condition of his clothing, his home life or his social economic status. He is a person.
The only person who really came to his rescue was a women much in need of help herself. She is scruffy looking with a can and without a cell phone. She asks each passerby to help her help him. She is a real "Good Samaritan." She gets in close to the man and gives him a name as he is unresponsive. She talks calmly and soothing to him. She offers him hope. She had little to give herself, but she gave all she had.
How many times have I read the Good Samaritan story in the Bible or in a child's story book and thought that wouldn't happen today. It wouldn't be the last person on the road that would stop. We live in America. No one would walk right by a needy person and not offer help. I'm wrong. We do. I'm sure I have. What has become of us?
My husband and I talked about what makes a person stop and what makes a person go on like it's someone else' job. For me it's a sense of justice; of right and wrong. I can't stand to see someone being treated unfairly. Does that mean I get involved in every social cause or champion every downtrodden person? No, I can't. However, if I can do something, I will.
I remember when I was a teenager, my parents and I were at an ice cream store on a summer night. A bar/restaurant was a few doors down. I watched an obviously drunk man get into a car. I started to freak out wanting my dad to go stop the man. He could kill people. We called the police with a description of the car, the driver and direction the man was traveling. We followed him at a safe distance until help arrived.
Why? Because I knew I couldn't sleep if we didn't get him stopped. Is this a learned skill, a heart tug or God's urging? I think it's a little of each. It is the Holy Spirit leading us to act with compassion, empathy, and faith that doing something will result in a much better outcome than doing nothing.
How I pray that in my daily life I'm modeling this Good Samaritan attitude to my children. In the little and the big, I hope I'm showing them that they can make a difference. It is our job to help our fellow man. God does call us to love the unlovable, to serve the downtrodden, and the widow. We can do that by opening our homes, our wallets, and our hearts to those we see every day and to those half way around the world.
God give me the wisdom, the ability and the desire to be your hands and feet today and everyday. Don't let me be a passerby. I want to be one of those who steps up and does something. Let it be so!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Public School Christians
My kids go to our neighborhood public school, though we did not start out there. Our oldest goes to a middle school and the middle one goes to the elementary school just blocks from our home.
C started his Kindergarten at a small Christian School, but by Spring Break we had changed our minds. The teacher and the school did not work for us. Thus far, not realizing this problem sooner is one of my biggest parenting regrets. C was miserable and hated school. It is a rule, Kindergartners don't hate school!
We moved to our neighborhood elementary school in March of that year. The first day I could tell all was redeemed. C was a little evangelist at school. The first day he asked to pray before the snack. He was told he'd have to do it silently.
In First Grade, he started a Jesus club. He invited all his friends to join as long as they knew about Jesus. If they didn't know, he'd tell them all about Him. While the Jesus Club was shut down due to "rules" about non inclusive clubs (of course, C said anyone could join), it didn't stop his mother from starting a Bible Study with school moms that is still going strong some 5 years later.
Our family did not go into a Public School with the plan to revolt against the "worldly" view often expounded at the school. We didn't protest the fact that Christmas was not celebrated. We just continued to sign our cards "Merry Christmas" when we brought gifts for the teachers.
I decided the best way to make sure I wasn't offended by the Halloween party in the classroom would be to volunteer to be the room mother and watch the festivities up close and personal.
Yes, there have been times when I've been tempted to protest things taught about Holidays we don't celebrate, while they omit anything that might be considered "Christian" which is offensive to the PC crowd. Instead, I've learned to pick my battles and build relationships with teachers and administrators. This way, I can make my views known in a non confrontational way.
Through this, my kids have seen a world that does not always share our beliefs. They have learned that talking about God to others is always allowed, but that talking one-on-one and having a relationship with someone first is probably the best way to share our faith. They've learned to be bold and to stand up for their faith while still having a mom and dad watching their every move and making sure they are supported.
In many ways, I've found more Christian Friends for myself and my kids at the Public School than I did in 6 months at a Christian School. I've been bolder about seeking out like minded friends and so have my kids. I've found that there are a lot of Christians in the public school systems including many teachers, administrators, parents, and kids. They are being salt and light in a world often dark and abandoned.
Our family has been able to minister with other parents/families to hurting families in our school environment. Not boldly about Christ, but by being Jesus with skin on in today's world. Our kids have had opportunities to invite non-churched friends to youth group activities, summer VBS, and events at our church that otherwise they would not have been so exposed.
I realize that our family is blessed to be in a city and a school district that has conservative educational values. Textbooks and teaching subject for the most part are non offensive. I know that this could change and as we go up in grades I know that the Science curriculum and literature books might cause some further discussions. I'm OK with that. We know what we believe, we talk about it at home and our kids are equipped to stand up for what they believe or ask for help from us.
For now, I feel that we are like Esther. In the Public School for Such A Time as This....
C gave a speech this month in front of the entire 5/6 grade student body for Cultural Awareness Week. At first, I was surprised that my son, a white middle class suburban boy, would have any knowledge of Cultural Diversity. Yet, his speech was chosen from among his classmates by the teachers as the one that stood out. Amazingly, his speech mentions God and was not edited.
Here's an excerpt of the speech. I've changed a few words to protect people's identity.
At my years at ***, I have had many cultural experiences including a very special one, when I met Mrs. ****. Many of you probably know her, but what you might not know is that she is a missionary. When I heard about her orphanage in ****something inside me clicked. I started to think more about what I have to offer as opposed to what others have to offer me. I was very disappointed at the beginning of 5th grade because many of my elementary friends were on the opposite team as me. I have made many new friends and I have no regrets. Don’t get me wrong I still like my elementary friends, but I know that God put me on the “A” team instead of the “B” team for a special purpose. Part of that reason was to meet Mrs. ****.
When I heard this speech, tears rolled down my face. Not for how wonderful my son was, which he is, but for how wonderful God is that he uses a Public School teacher who just happens to be an Christian Missionary and FCA advisor in my son's life. God did put C in a certain teachers' classroom last year for a reason.
I think C is wondering now if you can you be a missionary and an Aeronautical Engineer at the same time? Who knows. Only God.
C started his Kindergarten at a small Christian School, but by Spring Break we had changed our minds. The teacher and the school did not work for us. Thus far, not realizing this problem sooner is one of my biggest parenting regrets. C was miserable and hated school. It is a rule, Kindergartners don't hate school!
We moved to our neighborhood elementary school in March of that year. The first day I could tell all was redeemed. C was a little evangelist at school. The first day he asked to pray before the snack. He was told he'd have to do it silently.
In First Grade, he started a Jesus club. He invited all his friends to join as long as they knew about Jesus. If they didn't know, he'd tell them all about Him. While the Jesus Club was shut down due to "rules" about non inclusive clubs (of course, C said anyone could join), it didn't stop his mother from starting a Bible Study with school moms that is still going strong some 5 years later.
Our family did not go into a Public School with the plan to revolt against the "worldly" view often expounded at the school. We didn't protest the fact that Christmas was not celebrated. We just continued to sign our cards "Merry Christmas" when we brought gifts for the teachers.
I decided the best way to make sure I wasn't offended by the Halloween party in the classroom would be to volunteer to be the room mother and watch the festivities up close and personal.
Yes, there have been times when I've been tempted to protest things taught about Holidays we don't celebrate, while they omit anything that might be considered "Christian" which is offensive to the PC crowd. Instead, I've learned to pick my battles and build relationships with teachers and administrators. This way, I can make my views known in a non confrontational way.
Through this, my kids have seen a world that does not always share our beliefs. They have learned that talking about God to others is always allowed, but that talking one-on-one and having a relationship with someone first is probably the best way to share our faith. They've learned to be bold and to stand up for their faith while still having a mom and dad watching their every move and making sure they are supported.
In many ways, I've found more Christian Friends for myself and my kids at the Public School than I did in 6 months at a Christian School. I've been bolder about seeking out like minded friends and so have my kids. I've found that there are a lot of Christians in the public school systems including many teachers, administrators, parents, and kids. They are being salt and light in a world often dark and abandoned.
Our family has been able to minister with other parents/families to hurting families in our school environment. Not boldly about Christ, but by being Jesus with skin on in today's world. Our kids have had opportunities to invite non-churched friends to youth group activities, summer VBS, and events at our church that otherwise they would not have been so exposed.
I realize that our family is blessed to be in a city and a school district that has conservative educational values. Textbooks and teaching subject for the most part are non offensive. I know that this could change and as we go up in grades I know that the Science curriculum and literature books might cause some further discussions. I'm OK with that. We know what we believe, we talk about it at home and our kids are equipped to stand up for what they believe or ask for help from us.
For now, I feel that we are like Esther. In the Public School for Such A Time as This....
C gave a speech this month in front of the entire 5/6 grade student body for Cultural Awareness Week. At first, I was surprised that my son, a white middle class suburban boy, would have any knowledge of Cultural Diversity. Yet, his speech was chosen from among his classmates by the teachers as the one that stood out. Amazingly, his speech mentions God and was not edited.
Here's an excerpt of the speech. I've changed a few words to protect people's identity.
At my years at ***, I have had many cultural experiences including a very special one, when I met Mrs. ****. Many of you probably know her, but what you might not know is that she is a missionary. When I heard about her orphanage in ****something inside me clicked. I started to think more about what I have to offer as opposed to what others have to offer me. I was very disappointed at the beginning of 5th grade because many of my elementary friends were on the opposite team as me. I have made many new friends and I have no regrets. Don’t get me wrong I still like my elementary friends, but I know that God put me on the “A” team instead of the “B” team for a special purpose. Part of that reason was to meet Mrs. ****.
When I heard this speech, tears rolled down my face. Not for how wonderful my son was, which he is, but for how wonderful God is that he uses a Public School teacher who just happens to be an Christian Missionary and FCA advisor in my son's life. God did put C in a certain teachers' classroom last year for a reason.
I think C is wondering now if you can you be a missionary and an Aeronautical Engineer at the same time? Who knows. Only God.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Power Source Upgrade
Last week, my computer wasn't working. By which I mean, I pushed the power button on the tower and nothing happened. Nada! Zilch! I pushed again. Nothing. Played with the cords, the outlets, and pushed again. Same result; nothing. I said a quick prayer about why I really needed the computer that day and tried again.
Let's say I might have pushed the button 100 times, prayed over it, laid hands on it, and the result was always the same. I even left the room and came back in singing a happy jig and no power.
When I called a computer house call doctor, he said it was either a power source issue or my motherboard had fried. What! I had no idea what a motherboard was, but the thought scared me. I figured mothers are very important and therefore, this had to be very important. He'd come the next day at 6;00 p.m. for about $100 to check it out.
Two days of no computer. Possibly 100 of dollars for repairs and no promise of a computer by the weekend.
I was sad. Behind on some volunteer projects and unable to email people about upcoming events, meetings, and bible study; I had to call on friends to help me out.
Friday morning I went to my mom's bible study group. It was a small group. I had been late with the email. I lamented my problem about the computer and that I would be having a repairman out that night.
God then stepped in and answered my prayers in a big way. One of the moms said, "My husband loves to tinker with computers and could probably fix it for you this weekend. He does this for friends all the time." At this point, I might have volunteered to make dinner for this family for a month. No payment was needed she said. It was his gift and loved to share it with others.
I had not thought to ask God if He would send someone to me that could solve my computer problem. By evening, this dear friend's husband had come over and solved my problem in about 30 minutes. It was the "power source" and only cost $39.00.
A new power source. Sounds so simple to the right person. He knew exactly what the problem was and told me that these things happened to desktops about my computer's age. Quick and Easy.
I think sometimes my problem is a power source issue too. I wake up tired and stressed over a big to do list. I see the pile of laundry or the errands that need running, my power button gets over used, and the power goes out. I need to plug into a new "power source." I need to wake up early and get into the Word. I need to lay my petitions before the Lord and ask him for the power to get through my day. I need to do my bible study first not at the end of a long day.
This week, I'm trying to plug into my "power source" everyday.
Thank you God for lessons learned and chances to trade out the old for a new with all the power I need. Thank you, too for families who help others out by sharing their gifts/talents and all they want in return is a warm plate of homemade chocolate chip cookies. May I too find ways to share my talents with no expectations of return.
Let's say I might have pushed the button 100 times, prayed over it, laid hands on it, and the result was always the same. I even left the room and came back in singing a happy jig and no power.
When I called a computer house call doctor, he said it was either a power source issue or my motherboard had fried. What! I had no idea what a motherboard was, but the thought scared me. I figured mothers are very important and therefore, this had to be very important. He'd come the next day at 6;00 p.m. for about $100 to check it out.
Two days of no computer. Possibly 100 of dollars for repairs and no promise of a computer by the weekend.
I was sad. Behind on some volunteer projects and unable to email people about upcoming events, meetings, and bible study; I had to call on friends to help me out.
Friday morning I went to my mom's bible study group. It was a small group. I had been late with the email. I lamented my problem about the computer and that I would be having a repairman out that night.
God then stepped in and answered my prayers in a big way. One of the moms said, "My husband loves to tinker with computers and could probably fix it for you this weekend. He does this for friends all the time." At this point, I might have volunteered to make dinner for this family for a month. No payment was needed she said. It was his gift and loved to share it with others.
I had not thought to ask God if He would send someone to me that could solve my computer problem. By evening, this dear friend's husband had come over and solved my problem in about 30 minutes. It was the "power source" and only cost $39.00.
A new power source. Sounds so simple to the right person. He knew exactly what the problem was and told me that these things happened to desktops about my computer's age. Quick and Easy.
I think sometimes my problem is a power source issue too. I wake up tired and stressed over a big to do list. I see the pile of laundry or the errands that need running, my power button gets over used, and the power goes out. I need to plug into a new "power source." I need to wake up early and get into the Word. I need to lay my petitions before the Lord and ask him for the power to get through my day. I need to do my bible study first not at the end of a long day.
This week, I'm trying to plug into my "power source" everyday.
Thank you God for lessons learned and chances to trade out the old for a new with all the power I need. Thank you, too for families who help others out by sharing their gifts/talents and all they want in return is a warm plate of homemade chocolate chip cookies. May I too find ways to share my talents with no expectations of return.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Having a Mary Heart
This fall, I've been reading the book Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna Weaver. My "Mom's Bible Study "has been using this book as our study .
This book is very convicting. The chapter we discussed today was #4 The Cure which is about overload, burn out and the expectations we place on ourselves as believers. We want to serve God, but too often we take on too much, get stressed out, and forget thatFellowship with Him is only "one thing" that matters to God.
Too often, I am that Martha by working away in the kitchen, at the church, at the school and missing out on the joy of just following with Christ.
I guess to keep it real that if I am trying to be "found faithful," I'm missing the boat because I'm too busy on the shores of life trying to check one more thing off my list
Here are a few of the key points I underlined from this fabulous chapter....things I want to walk away with and store in my mind and heart
"The problem is, contrary to popular belief, we can't do it all. We're not even suppose to try." (page 57)
"Sometimes I think I struggle to discern God's will because I'm surrounded by the obvious....I'm surrounded by legitimate needs, and I want to do them all." (page 57)
" I realize then that, while there are many things that need to be done, things I'm capable of doing and want to do, I am not always the one to do them. ....God may be calling me to pray that the right person will rise up to accomplish it. What's more, I may be stealing someone else's blessing when I assume I must do it all." (page 59)
"Service was never supposed to be our first priority. .. Only one thing is needed and it is happening not in the kitchen, but right there in the living room. .. The Truth is, we can't get our spiritual act together unless we go to the Living Room first." (page 60)
"I cannot do everything, but I can do "one thing"." (page 63)
That "one thing" is to sit in God's presence and to worship Him, to learn more about Him and to have fellowship with Him through prayer and time in His Word.
Some of my greatest moments of worship of late have been in the car. We have KLOVE on the radio most of the time and my kids will ask me to turn it up so they can hear and sign along. I love to hear all three of them singing songs of praise, of comfort and words of scripture. They are hiding God's word in their heart one melody at a time.
It does a Momma's heart good.
Now I just need to make sure that I'm hiding these precious words above in my heart too. That I'm sitting in the Living Room hearing/listening to God's still voice instead of in the Kitchen trying to get the next thing done.
This book is very convicting. The chapter we discussed today was #4 The Cure which is about overload, burn out and the expectations we place on ourselves as believers. We want to serve God, but too often we take on too much, get stressed out, and forget thatFellowship with Him is only "one thing" that matters to God.
Too often, I am that Martha by working away in the kitchen, at the church, at the school and missing out on the joy of just following with Christ.
I guess to keep it real that if I am trying to be "found faithful," I'm missing the boat because I'm too busy on the shores of life trying to check one more thing off my list
Here are a few of the key points I underlined from this fabulous chapter....things I want to walk away with and store in my mind and heart
"The problem is, contrary to popular belief, we can't do it all. We're not even suppose to try." (page 57)
"Sometimes I think I struggle to discern God's will because I'm surrounded by the obvious....I'm surrounded by legitimate needs, and I want to do them all." (page 57)
" I realize then that, while there are many things that need to be done, things I'm capable of doing and want to do, I am not always the one to do them. ....God may be calling me to pray that the right person will rise up to accomplish it. What's more, I may be stealing someone else's blessing when I assume I must do it all." (page 59)
"Service was never supposed to be our first priority. .. Only one thing is needed and it is happening not in the kitchen, but right there in the living room. .. The Truth is, we can't get our spiritual act together unless we go to the Living Room first." (page 60)
"I cannot do everything, but I can do "one thing"." (page 63)
That "one thing" is to sit in God's presence and to worship Him, to learn more about Him and to have fellowship with Him through prayer and time in His Word.
Some of my greatest moments of worship of late have been in the car. We have KLOVE on the radio most of the time and my kids will ask me to turn it up so they can hear and sign along. I love to hear all three of them singing songs of praise, of comfort and words of scripture. They are hiding God's word in their heart one melody at a time.
It does a Momma's heart good.
Now I just need to make sure that I'm hiding these precious words above in my heart too. That I'm sitting in the Living Room hearing/listening to God's still voice instead of in the Kitchen trying to get the next thing done.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
It Is Well With My Soul
My littlest told her friend today that because Obama won we'd be moving to a new state.
My middle child was crying last night when she went to bed because she was so sad for McCain.
My oldest thought maybe we should demand a recount.
Reality was a little hard to take in our corner of the Red States this morning.
God's plans are not always my plans. His ways are bigger. He puts in place leaders and requires of us to render unto Cesar what is Cesar's.
Today, we talked about the fact that the sun still came up this morning. That God is still in His Place and He is still in control. We are praying for our country, our new leader and for our world.
We are not moving. We are sad, but we are resolute. We have faith in our country.
Not my will Lord, but yours.
A song has been floating through my head all day long. It is Well With My Soul. A song about trusting God in the tough times and counting it well with our souls because God is still God and in Him alone can I trust.
Maybe for you it's not the election that has you needing to trust, maybe it's a illness or a loss of a job; maybe it's other people letting you down once again. No matter the circumstance God is still good, all the time.
"Dear Lord may these words fill my heart and mind, so that will full faith and confidence I can declare it well with my soul."
My middle child was crying last night when she went to bed because she was so sad for McCain.
My oldest thought maybe we should demand a recount.
Reality was a little hard to take in our corner of the Red States this morning.
God's plans are not always my plans. His ways are bigger. He puts in place leaders and requires of us to render unto Cesar what is Cesar's.
Today, we talked about the fact that the sun still came up this morning. That God is still in His Place and He is still in control. We are praying for our country, our new leader and for our world.
We are not moving. We are sad, but we are resolute. We have faith in our country.
Not my will Lord, but yours.
A song has been floating through my head all day long. It is Well With My Soul. A song about trusting God in the tough times and counting it well with our souls because God is still God and in Him alone can I trust.
Maybe for you it's not the election that has you needing to trust, maybe it's a illness or a loss of a job; maybe it's other people letting you down once again. No matter the circumstance God is still good, all the time.
"Dear Lord may these words fill my heart and mind, so that will full faith and confidence I can declare it well with my soul."
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Welcome to Find Us Faithful
After almost a year of debating with myself, I've decided to start a blog. Why now, you ask? School is about to start up again for the kids and I figure this is kinda like my fresh new classroom. I can get new "school" supplies, learn new skills, make new friends and take on new life lessons. I can take the"life lessons" that I'm learning and write them down to remind myself that this too shall pass or that time is slipping away too fast. While I've kept a family scrapbook for almost 10 years, I know that I'm forgetting those small moments and wonders that are slipping away and I want to remember them always.
My baby turned 4 this week and while it seems just yesterday her brother was only 4, I know that in a few short weeks he'll be starting 6th grade.
Which leads me to the significance behind the blog title and address: Find Us Faithful. Years ago when my grandfather was gravely ill in the hospital, the Steve Green version of this song was playing on the radio. It spoke so clearly to my heart at that time of the legacy of faith that I had been given from my grandfather, parents and others. I was blessed. When the song was sung at my grandfather's funeral, it gave me chills to think that someday I would be a mother and that my strongest desire would be that my children would one day look back at my life and legacy and see the thread of faith in Christ strongly in the pages. Today, some 14 years later, I am in the trenches of life with 3 children, a husband and everyday hustle and bustle getting in the mix.
Which means I need these words and message to touch my heart ....
New International Version (NIV)
Deuteronomy 6:6-9
6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Find Us Faithful - Steve Green (People Need The Lord)
We're pilgrims on the journey
Of the narrow road
And those who've gone before us line the way
Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary
Their lives a stirring testament to God's sustaining grace
Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses
Let us run the race not only for the prize
But as those who've gone before us
Let us leave to those behind us
The heritage of faithfulness passed on through godly lives
Chorus:
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
After all our hopes and dreams have come and gone
And our children sift though all we've left behind
May the clues that they discover and the memories they uncover
Become the light that leads them to the road we each must find
Repeat Chorus
That's what I want to do with this blog; remind myself about the fleeting moments I have to impress God's word on my children's hearts and to make sure that God's love and grace are with me as I leave the footprints on the road of life that I'm currently on.
May it be so!!
Jill
My baby turned 4 this week and while it seems just yesterday her brother was only 4, I know that in a few short weeks he'll be starting 6th grade.
Which leads me to the significance behind the blog title and address: Find Us Faithful. Years ago when my grandfather was gravely ill in the hospital, the Steve Green version of this song was playing on the radio. It spoke so clearly to my heart at that time of the legacy of faith that I had been given from my grandfather, parents and others. I was blessed. When the song was sung at my grandfather's funeral, it gave me chills to think that someday I would be a mother and that my strongest desire would be that my children would one day look back at my life and legacy and see the thread of faith in Christ strongly in the pages. Today, some 14 years later, I am in the trenches of life with 3 children, a husband and everyday hustle and bustle getting in the mix.
Which means I need these words and message to touch my heart ....
New International Version (NIV)
Deuteronomy 6:6-9
6 These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Find Us Faithful - Steve Green (People Need The Lord)
We're pilgrims on the journey
Of the narrow road
And those who've gone before us line the way
Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary
Their lives a stirring testament to God's sustaining grace
Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses
Let us run the race not only for the prize
But as those who've gone before us
Let us leave to those behind us
The heritage of faithfulness passed on through godly lives
Chorus:
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
After all our hopes and dreams have come and gone
And our children sift though all we've left behind
May the clues that they discover and the memories they uncover
Become the light that leads them to the road we each must find
Repeat Chorus
That's what I want to do with this blog; remind myself about the fleeting moments I have to impress God's word on my children's hearts and to make sure that God's love and grace are with me as I leave the footprints on the road of life that I'm currently on.
May it be so!!
Jill
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