Monday, May 14, 2007
a Sunday at the park
Jessica and I decided to take advantage of the beautiful sunshine the Lord blessed us with yesterday and went for a stroll to play at the park across town. Towing my camera along, we ended up making our adventure a photoshoot of sorts capturing a few moments of fun as we monkeyed ourselves on the playground equipment. I considered providing captions, but I'll leave that fun to you, my beloved viewers! No matter what your age, parks have the potential to be fun for everyone, tis' just what you make of it!
kids say the 'darndest' things
Friday evening was full of fun and laughter for me. I attempted to pretty myself up for an evening of work.(Results can be seen in the photos above.) As a member of the recreation staff I had the priviledge of working at the annual Mother-Son dance. My friend Billie and I watched with brimming smiles as the little boys towed their mothers by the hand to enjoy a night on the town (at a dance)in recognition of Mother's Day. Throughout the evening there was much dancing, many prizes for the boys, and of course, the legendary cake with lots of icing.
After retiring from my duties at the front door (ie: collecting money, giving out tickets and stamping hands)I entered the dance and assisted my fellow friends at the juice/cake table. It was here that I found myself sandwiched in a line between my boss, Billie & Jepson...the Macareena came on and we decided to all dance. Little did I know this song would open the doorway for my favorite moment all evening. All moms and sons in the room were dancing and at this point even the rec. staff was dancing (behind the cake/juice table, of course). A little boy approached the table and feeling quite confident in our ability to pull off the macareena we all continued dancing, assuming perhaps that this little boy desired nothing more than to watch us.
All of a sudden my eyes fell to the small boy who realizing he now partially had my attention, threw his arms out to his sides and said in a rather determined tone, "Ahhh, can I get something to drink?" My mouth dropped open and hints of embarrassment began to surface in my mind as laughter consumed my spirit. My boss Kathy began laughing and said "Ohhh, wow, he wants a drink, oh my, oh my" and stepping in front of the three of us now scrambling to serve this one boy she said "I've got it covered."
Reflecting back on the little 2 1/2ft. nothing little boy and his very certain look saying "Ahhh can I get something to drink..." was priceless. Sometimes kids say the 'darndest' things!
On another reflective note I have great respect for father's that raise their boys teaching them the proper way to treat a lady. There was much evidence of this at the Mother-Son dance and it was refreshing and a blessing. (Some little boys even payed for their mothers and bought them flowers...thanks to Dad's help of course, but it was thoughtful and sweet.)
Monday, April 30, 2007
unplanned time
Following the daily tasks of seminar and some very draining group work time, I approached my evening with a pinch of dread in my heart...I did not want to spend this rainy evening alone, in my room, doing absolutely nothing. Deciding to be obedient to an earlier prompting, I requested the company of a couple of friends on campus...whom considering certain circumstances could have easily declined my company, but since they accepted, we spent the next hour of our time playing cards.
Following cards, I was surprised to watch the Lord take over the delegation of my time spent this evening. A visitor appeared in my doorway desiring to talk and we engaged in an interesting, indepth conversation, better described as a heart-to-heart for the next hour or so and I was then invited to join a small group at Tim's for a time. We waltzed down the rainy hill to hot drinks and timbits galore...only deciding on our way back up the hill that this friend and I would bond once more over cookie making...our kitchen adventure turned once more into a 2 hour conversation, which I was very blessed and sweetly surprised by.
I'm thankful I was unable to be the delegate of my time and so grateful the Lord provided the opportunity to talk about Him, life cirumstances and plans, and to hear this young sister's heart to grasp a greater understanding of where she's at currently. I was grately blessed by these surprise conversations and the complete depletion of my assumed "free" evening. I love how the Lord turned a potentially empty, lonely evening into a chance to talk, listen, laugh, and bond with someone on a heart level and understanding that was very much needed in light of current situations and circumstances.
I recognize this post is rather vague, but I encourage you to allow the Lord to be the steward of your time for a change...it was the best choice I could have possibly made all evening. Bless the Lord for His mindfulness and involvement in even the smallest of things in our lives.
Following cards, I was surprised to watch the Lord take over the delegation of my time spent this evening. A visitor appeared in my doorway desiring to talk and we engaged in an interesting, indepth conversation, better described as a heart-to-heart for the next hour or so and I was then invited to join a small group at Tim's for a time. We waltzed down the rainy hill to hot drinks and timbits galore...only deciding on our way back up the hill that this friend and I would bond once more over cookie making...our kitchen adventure turned once more into a 2 hour conversation, which I was very blessed and sweetly surprised by.
I'm thankful I was unable to be the delegate of my time and so grateful the Lord provided the opportunity to talk about Him, life cirumstances and plans, and to hear this young sister's heart to grasp a greater understanding of where she's at currently. I was grately blessed by these surprise conversations and the complete depletion of my assumed "free" evening. I love how the Lord turned a potentially empty, lonely evening into a chance to talk, listen, laugh, and bond with someone on a heart level and understanding that was very much needed in light of current situations and circumstances.
I recognize this post is rather vague, but I encourage you to allow the Lord to be the steward of your time for a change...it was the best choice I could have possibly made all evening. Bless the Lord for His mindfulness and involvement in even the smallest of things in our lives.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Beautiful
I've been thinking lately about what it means to be secure in the Lord, to really know who I am in Christ and to be satisfied with that, but available to constantly be changed. I was exercising yesterday morning in the lounge after a nice jog and one of the ladies had left the tv on the music channel. This song came on by Bethany Dillon and caught my attention...I want to be beautiful, to know that who I am is quite enough.
I love the last verse of this song. It truly speaks of who Christ should be in our lives...He makes us beautiful, worthy of love, and assures us we are quite enough...we are fearfully and wonderfully His. He makes me feel beautiful...I am amazed as He lives in my heart and daily stretches me beyond the capacities I have in and of myself.
I've come across a quote a few times in the past week:
"A woman's heart should be so close to God - a man must seek God to find it." Seek Him...chase Him...let Him define your beauty and reign as King of your heart...my beloved sisters in Christ, trust as you draw near to God, the one He's created to be your match must seek Him to find your heart...let Christ be your standard!
"Beautiful" by: Bethany Dillon
I was so unique
Now I feel skin deep
I count on the make-up to cover it all
Crying myself to sleep cause I cannot keep their attention
I thought I could be strong
But it's killing me
Does someone hear my cry?
I'm dying for new life
[Chorus]
I want to be beautiful
Make you stand in awe
Look inside my heart,
and be amazed
I want to hear you say
Who I am is quite enough
Just want to be worthy of love
And beautiful
Sometimes I wish I was someone other than me
Fighting to make the mirror happy
Trying to find whatever is missing
Won't you help me back to glory
[Chorus]
You make me beautiful
You make me stand in awe
You step inside my heart, and I am amazed
I love to hear You say
Who I am is quite enough
You make me worthy of love and beautiful
I love the last verse of this song. It truly speaks of who Christ should be in our lives...He makes us beautiful, worthy of love, and assures us we are quite enough...we are fearfully and wonderfully His. He makes me feel beautiful...I am amazed as He lives in my heart and daily stretches me beyond the capacities I have in and of myself.
I've come across a quote a few times in the past week:
"A woman's heart should be so close to God - a man must seek God to find it." Seek Him...chase Him...let Him define your beauty and reign as King of your heart...my beloved sisters in Christ, trust as you draw near to God, the one He's created to be your match must seek Him to find your heart...let Christ be your standard!
"Beautiful" by: Bethany Dillon
I was so unique
Now I feel skin deep
I count on the make-up to cover it all
Crying myself to sleep cause I cannot keep their attention
I thought I could be strong
But it's killing me
Does someone hear my cry?
I'm dying for new life
[Chorus]
I want to be beautiful
Make you stand in awe
Look inside my heart,
and be amazed
I want to hear you say
Who I am is quite enough
Just want to be worthy of love
And beautiful
Sometimes I wish I was someone other than me
Fighting to make the mirror happy
Trying to find whatever is missing
Won't you help me back to glory
[Chorus]
You make me beautiful
You make me stand in awe
You step inside my heart, and I am amazed
I love to hear You say
Who I am is quite enough
You make me worthy of love and beautiful
Saturday, April 21, 2007
a glimpse of what I have been up to in picture form
Athletic Awards Banquet : Received the Female Rookie of the Year Award
Puddle Jumping downtown with Amy, Sheena & Shane.
A beautiful day called for some spontaneity...remembering the good old days of elementary school and middle school...various BBC students gathered together in the parking lot for an hour+ of jumproping/double dutching fun.
Giving credit where credit is due: Shane Grant took the first 6 photos of this post and Zach Schible snapped the jumproping photos! Thanks guys for blessing us with your talent.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
a hill run
A fair ways across town rests a hill steep and sound,
A hill that is far, a hill that is long.
This hill is quite challenging, a breath stealer indeed,
To conquer it, you feel as though you've lost all your speed.
Slowly pumping, arms at both sides, your lungs collapse deeply in your chest trying to survive.
Your legs become heavy, weighed down by this mount, but pressing onward, you silently begin to doubt.
A challenge indeed this hill hast provided, a challenge that has frightened away many runners and sidewalk climbers.
Gradually with one final push you find yourself at the top as all the air you'd neglected to breathe rushes to and fro around you. Your lungs become heavy and thick with a strange sting, your legs become bulky as the muscles scream.
My oh my, we have conquered this hill...if I didn't know any better I'd assume it an army drill.
The thing about long hills, stinging lungs and throbbing muscles is the addiction that rises in your running spirit to try it again, to go once more.
Now not just once, or twice..but three times this hill has met it's match and conquered it I have.
Without realizing the impact its made, my legs are secretly becoming stronger, my lungs breathing deeper.
Last week I climbed the bluffs and puzzled by my lack of heavy breathing I pressed my way to the top. I suppose I owe this easy climb to the hill that has so easily consumed my training time. This morning, among the rain clouded sky, I set out to jog and found my heart wandering...a fair way across town, to the hill far and long..up, up, up I went never slowing down. Reaching the top, my heart began to pound. Thundering so loudly, pumping blood into my veins, I felt healthy and fresh, rejuvinated and freed. This time my muscles neglected their uncomfortable bulking and sting, and instead rejoiced as the tension released.
For all who claim to be runners, we know hills are tough. Sometimes we face mountains and fearing the pain, we turn away to a trail more frequently traveled, a softer pathway, an easier climb. I've realized when we match up against the hills, far and long, as we reach the top, a certain victory resounds. Running is relaxing and challenging in the same breath, but hill running, up steep, steep hills is difficult. The more willing I am to reach the top, the easier I find my climbs to be.
Sometimes I feel like a warrior, screaming my battle cry as I charge forth against the steepness of the hill...as I reach the top I feel as though a certain victory has been claimed, a burden lifted, a freedom received.
If you have nothing to do today, go for a run...and if you're feeling adventurous, find a hill, far and long and give it a try!
A hill that is far, a hill that is long.
This hill is quite challenging, a breath stealer indeed,
To conquer it, you feel as though you've lost all your speed.
Slowly pumping, arms at both sides, your lungs collapse deeply in your chest trying to survive.
Your legs become heavy, weighed down by this mount, but pressing onward, you silently begin to doubt.
A challenge indeed this hill hast provided, a challenge that has frightened away many runners and sidewalk climbers.
Gradually with one final push you find yourself at the top as all the air you'd neglected to breathe rushes to and fro around you. Your lungs become heavy and thick with a strange sting, your legs become bulky as the muscles scream.
My oh my, we have conquered this hill...if I didn't know any better I'd assume it an army drill.
The thing about long hills, stinging lungs and throbbing muscles is the addiction that rises in your running spirit to try it again, to go once more.
Now not just once, or twice..but three times this hill has met it's match and conquered it I have.
Without realizing the impact its made, my legs are secretly becoming stronger, my lungs breathing deeper.
Last week I climbed the bluffs and puzzled by my lack of heavy breathing I pressed my way to the top. I suppose I owe this easy climb to the hill that has so easily consumed my training time. This morning, among the rain clouded sky, I set out to jog and found my heart wandering...a fair way across town, to the hill far and long..up, up, up I went never slowing down. Reaching the top, my heart began to pound. Thundering so loudly, pumping blood into my veins, I felt healthy and fresh, rejuvinated and freed. This time my muscles neglected their uncomfortable bulking and sting, and instead rejoiced as the tension released.
For all who claim to be runners, we know hills are tough. Sometimes we face mountains and fearing the pain, we turn away to a trail more frequently traveled, a softer pathway, an easier climb. I've realized when we match up against the hills, far and long, as we reach the top, a certain victory resounds. Running is relaxing and challenging in the same breath, but hill running, up steep, steep hills is difficult. The more willing I am to reach the top, the easier I find my climbs to be.
Sometimes I feel like a warrior, screaming my battle cry as I charge forth against the steepness of the hill...as I reach the top I feel as though a certain victory has been claimed, a burden lifted, a freedom received.
If you have nothing to do today, go for a run...and if you're feeling adventurous, find a hill, far and long and give it a try!
Monday, April 16, 2007
thankful thought
Lord, thank you for walks in the rain and tea time.
Thank you for laughter and things I cannot quite understand.
Your ways are perfect and your plans for good.
I love that you never run out of surprises.
Thank you for laughter and things I cannot quite understand.
Your ways are perfect and your plans for good.
I love that you never run out of surprises.
a lesson
I started reading Joshua in my secret time with the Lord and something about chapter 1:5 strikes at the very depths of my heart. In the final portion of the verse the NLT reads, " I will not fail you or abandon you."
As my life begins a new adventure...everything around me is changing.
As my mind mules over this verse I just feel like Lord reaching out His hand and resting it on my shoulders, lovingly looking into my eyes I feel as though He's saying, " Beloved I will not fail you. I will not abandon you."
I had a lovely lunch Saturday afternoon with my parents. They shared their hearts about the issues I've been faced with lately in my life and their desire to learn who I am becoming. They claimed they have recognized a change in me and though they've recognized it as good, they don't fully know me and I suppose for parents that is a scary revelation...your baby girl is all grown up and though you understand that, it takes a little while to learn about her. Distance can be a silly little thing and it has hindered my parents ability to witness first hand the changes in my life and process leading me to where I'm at right now.
My mom mentioned something at the table that really settled deep in my mind. She shared her observations of how I'd somehow become a timid, quiet, enclosed person and had basically been bogged down with the world. Sadly this "world" consisted of one very big deal relationship. People all around me spoke words declaring it as what was meant to be and the surety of it leading to marriage...and my heart closed down somewhere between the spring and summer of last year...however, believing something was terribly wrong with me as everyone around me plunged full force ahead, I pressed on as well. I found myself closing off, enrapturing myself in this relationship and losing myself. As my mom said, I disappeared...she basically lost her daughter...and had flags flashing up quite often about the situation. I had niavely, in my young 17-18 year old mind followed the philosophy of this older man that "time = feelings" and " if you act like you are feeling something, eventually you will." He was right in a sense...sometimes. I don't remember exactly when I stopped "feeling it", but in all honesty, it has been awhile.
Unfortunately, I relied on people, who, unlike the Lord, fail you. I never stepped back to question where I was at...what I was feeling. I just went with the flow, miserably at times, putting on a pretty face and feeling as though I'd let everyone down if I ended the situation. Then one day it hit me and I began to question, I began to pray with a fervency and deep need of direction. God enraptured me in His peace and love....he provided good Christian fellowship and once again came through with His promise to never fail me or abandon me. He stuck through with me and though he never spoke a yes or no, I asked for Him to speak through me and He brought his peace in ending the relationship.
Here I sit just over a month after ending a relationship I nearly lost my entire identity to...and I am resting in such peace. God has captured my heart in such a way, I can hardly begin to describe it in words. Every day is an adventure. His word is alive and real. My heart is at rest. A heaviness I have walked with for over a year now is gone.
As I walk forward and the days pass...this promise stirs my heart. "Beloved, I will not fail you, I will not abandon you." God is so good!
As my life begins a new adventure...everything around me is changing.
As my mind mules over this verse I just feel like Lord reaching out His hand and resting it on my shoulders, lovingly looking into my eyes I feel as though He's saying, " Beloved I will not fail you. I will not abandon you."
I had a lovely lunch Saturday afternoon with my parents. They shared their hearts about the issues I've been faced with lately in my life and their desire to learn who I am becoming. They claimed they have recognized a change in me and though they've recognized it as good, they don't fully know me and I suppose for parents that is a scary revelation...your baby girl is all grown up and though you understand that, it takes a little while to learn about her. Distance can be a silly little thing and it has hindered my parents ability to witness first hand the changes in my life and process leading me to where I'm at right now.
My mom mentioned something at the table that really settled deep in my mind. She shared her observations of how I'd somehow become a timid, quiet, enclosed person and had basically been bogged down with the world. Sadly this "world" consisted of one very big deal relationship. People all around me spoke words declaring it as what was meant to be and the surety of it leading to marriage...and my heart closed down somewhere between the spring and summer of last year...however, believing something was terribly wrong with me as everyone around me plunged full force ahead, I pressed on as well. I found myself closing off, enrapturing myself in this relationship and losing myself. As my mom said, I disappeared...she basically lost her daughter...and had flags flashing up quite often about the situation. I had niavely, in my young 17-18 year old mind followed the philosophy of this older man that "time = feelings" and " if you act like you are feeling something, eventually you will." He was right in a sense...sometimes. I don't remember exactly when I stopped "feeling it", but in all honesty, it has been awhile.
Unfortunately, I relied on people, who, unlike the Lord, fail you. I never stepped back to question where I was at...what I was feeling. I just went with the flow, miserably at times, putting on a pretty face and feeling as though I'd let everyone down if I ended the situation. Then one day it hit me and I began to question, I began to pray with a fervency and deep need of direction. God enraptured me in His peace and love....he provided good Christian fellowship and once again came through with His promise to never fail me or abandon me. He stuck through with me and though he never spoke a yes or no, I asked for Him to speak through me and He brought his peace in ending the relationship.
Here I sit just over a month after ending a relationship I nearly lost my entire identity to...and I am resting in such peace. God has captured my heart in such a way, I can hardly begin to describe it in words. Every day is an adventure. His word is alive and real. My heart is at rest. A heaviness I have walked with for over a year now is gone.
As I walk forward and the days pass...this promise stirs my heart. "Beloved, I will not fail you, I will not abandon you." God is so good!
Sunday, April 08, 2007
He lives!
Happy Easter everyone!
Take some time to remember the reason we recognize this day.
Christ is risen. He is alive!
He conquered death to pay the debt of our sins.
I am so unworthy and so blessed.
The lyrics of this song "He Lives" are powerful.
Blessings to you on this day! God be with you!
More than a Baby in a manger
To whom nobles would humbly bow their knee
Or the young Man heaven knew as Savior
He is alive in me
More than the Man who walked on water
Or the One who cause blinded eyes to see
Greater than all the signs and wonders
He is alive in me
He lives He lives
Conquered the grave and covered our sins
He lives He lives
Death couldn't hold the promise within
He lives
More than a Man who heard hosanna
From the same who cried crucify the King
Freely He gave as they demanded
Yet still He's alive in me
More than the Man mankind rejected
With nails in His hands and through His feet
The end told much more than they expected
For everyone knows in three days He rose
With power forever to redeem you and me
Death where is your sting
He's alive
Grave your victory
He's alive
Jesus holds the keys He reigns
He reigns forever and ever
Take some time to remember the reason we recognize this day.
Christ is risen. He is alive!
He conquered death to pay the debt of our sins.
I am so unworthy and so blessed.
The lyrics of this song "He Lives" are powerful.
Blessings to you on this day! God be with you!
More than a Baby in a manger
To whom nobles would humbly bow their knee
Or the young Man heaven knew as Savior
He is alive in me
More than the Man who walked on water
Or the One who cause blinded eyes to see
Greater than all the signs and wonders
He is alive in me
He lives He lives
Conquered the grave and covered our sins
He lives He lives
Death couldn't hold the promise within
He lives
More than a Man who heard hosanna
From the same who cried crucify the King
Freely He gave as they demanded
Yet still He's alive in me
More than the Man mankind rejected
With nails in His hands and through His feet
The end told much more than they expected
For everyone knows in three days He rose
With power forever to redeem you and me
Death where is your sting
He's alive
Grave your victory
He's alive
Jesus holds the keys He reigns
He reigns forever and ever
Thursday, April 05, 2007
thinking
I found this quote on a friend's blog and it's really got me thinking:
"There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, ‘Mine!’”-Abraham Kuyper
"There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, ‘Mine!’”-Abraham Kuyper
Saturday, March 31, 2007
change
Have you ever come to a point in your life where you have invested so much time, trust, and heart into a sitution, circumstance or relationship, and upon ending it you wonder: "What was this all about?"
Time is so tricky.
It breeds attachment, patterns & habits.
Trust should come easy, but rarely does by our own strength.
Hearts are fascinating, deep, and unknown places...where secrets and desires may stay covered and sheltered from all but one...the LORD.
Realizing that the Lord never equips us with something He will not use for His glory, I sometimes wonder "How or Why" certain circumstances are part of that training. Who am I to wonder? It both puzzles and blesses my heart to watch the Lord at work in my life and the lives around me. At the same time it stretches and challenges me to chase Him daily with a reckless abandon...unconcerned about time, provision and strength. I simply must trust God to sustain, provide and come through with His plans. Oh adulthood...
Time is so tricky.
It breeds attachment, patterns & habits.
Trust should come easy, but rarely does by our own strength.
Hearts are fascinating, deep, and unknown places...where secrets and desires may stay covered and sheltered from all but one...the LORD.
Realizing that the Lord never equips us with something He will not use for His glory, I sometimes wonder "How or Why" certain circumstances are part of that training. Who am I to wonder? It both puzzles and blesses my heart to watch the Lord at work in my life and the lives around me. At the same time it stretches and challenges me to chase Him daily with a reckless abandon...unconcerned about time, provision and strength. I simply must trust God to sustain, provide and come through with His plans. Oh adulthood...
Friday, March 30, 2007
a heart beat
My heart lately has been filled with this deep and raw emotion.
I am moved by people's stories daily.
My eyes are observant of the world around me.
I am stirred, thoughtfully provoked and spontaenous.
Reverand D. Naylor spoke at chapel this past Thursday and I absolutely enjoyed his message. His heart for sharing Christ with the Lord was radiant and His love for the Lord was contagious and refreshing.
He spoke of the lost and of reaching them in chapel using many great sermon illustrations and stories to get us on his thought level, and two things have really gripped my heart:
1) What will be my heartbeat today?
2) "The passion of God for the lost should drive us to our knees and keep us there."
I wonder and cringe thinking about the number of times I've allowed the numbness in my knees to take me to my feet. It is when I find myself on my feet that I suddenly lose focus on the work at hand and get caught up in doing, thinking, and saying things, rather than relying on the work to be done on my knees. I enjoy that this quote doesn't leave us with the impression that God's passion is for us to get on our knees and seek Him sometimes, or when we feel like it, or even to seek Him for a time and get up and come back to seek Him. The quote leaves us with the challenge to stay there. This is difficult because things come up. Life is a constant battle of inconveniences and decisions, but am I willing. Will God's passion for the lost, for His children, resound so deeply in my restored soul that I will be driven to my knees for the purpose of God's work and to see the lives of lost people changed? What will be my heartbeat today?
I am moved by people's stories daily.
My eyes are observant of the world around me.
I am stirred, thoughtfully provoked and spontaenous.
Reverand D. Naylor spoke at chapel this past Thursday and I absolutely enjoyed his message. His heart for sharing Christ with the Lord was radiant and His love for the Lord was contagious and refreshing.
He spoke of the lost and of reaching them in chapel using many great sermon illustrations and stories to get us on his thought level, and two things have really gripped my heart:
1) What will be my heartbeat today?
2) "The passion of God for the lost should drive us to our knees and keep us there."
I wonder and cringe thinking about the number of times I've allowed the numbness in my knees to take me to my feet. It is when I find myself on my feet that I suddenly lose focus on the work at hand and get caught up in doing, thinking, and saying things, rather than relying on the work to be done on my knees. I enjoy that this quote doesn't leave us with the impression that God's passion is for us to get on our knees and seek Him sometimes, or when we feel like it, or even to seek Him for a time and get up and come back to seek Him. The quote leaves us with the challenge to stay there. This is difficult because things come up. Life is a constant battle of inconveniences and decisions, but am I willing. Will God's passion for the lost, for His children, resound so deeply in my restored soul that I will be driven to my knees for the purpose of God's work and to see the lives of lost people changed? What will be my heartbeat today?
Monday, March 26, 2007
a reminder
Oftentimes the Lord will write a song on my heart. Usually the songs are familiar and on occasion, entirely made up. Today I was thinking about the LORD and His rich, unfailing love He lavishes upon us without a second thought, simply because He adores us, His children. I remembered a song the Lord placed in my heart a few years ago. I wrote it down both on paper, but the words will forever remain in my heart:
"I don't understand your ways...
But I know You're there with each taste...
Of life's known bittersweetness...
You hold me in my weakness...
And we cry Holy are You Lord...
And we sing Hallelujiah, Hallelujiah...
We cry Holy are You Lord...
And we sing Hallelujiah...
Hallelujiah, are You Lord!"
Jesus, you are worthy, much more worthy than I know...
"I don't understand your ways...
But I know You're there with each taste...
Of life's known bittersweetness...
You hold me in my weakness...
And we cry Holy are You Lord...
And we sing Hallelujiah, Hallelujiah...
We cry Holy are You Lord...
And we sing Hallelujiah...
Hallelujiah, are You Lord!"
Jesus, you are worthy, much more worthy than I know...
Friday, March 23, 2007
Happy Birthday Sherri!
Happy 17th Birthday Sherri Marie!
May the joy and blessings of the Lord shine upon you today.
May His peace reign in your heart!
Enjoy your special day knowing you are loved and treasured beautiful lady!
I love you sister!
Miss you lots!
me...adventurous???
As of lately, I feel a certain bounce in my step and joy in my walk.
I have discovered a desire within myself to be adventurous.
I know for all of you who know me, you're thinking,
"what! Christy adventurous? Right!"*laugh*laugh*
Well for starters, I have lost my compulsiveness to constantly be aware of time.
I am content in letting myself settle in at mealtimes to talk with friends.
I observe the things around me and find joy in what God has created.
I do not feel stressed about deadlines, schedules and the like.
A freedom reigns in my heart that is new and exciting.
Last night, on a whim I went rock-wall climbing in St.John with a group of fellow BBC students. I also attempted a tightrope for quite sometime until I managed to achieve getting myself hoisted onto it and taking 6 steps across. I was excited at my improvement throughout the night.
Two dear friends on campus: Jeremy and Zott had a mouse in their room and managed to, after a couple days, live trap it in their room last night. After class today Jeremy brought the mouse out to show me and set it free. I didn't panic and infact, it was a cute little mouse.
Today, I was working on homework outside because it was absolutely gorgeous and God blessed us with warm sunshine as 3 lovely ladies approached me and asked me to go for a walk with them to a cafe down town. (Now Dad, don't get too excited, I did not under any circumstances try coffee.) My friend Nicole treated us to mixed-berry smoothies and they were absolutely delicious.
Upon returning from my afternoon treat I spent time laughing with friends.
Just before supper my buddy Chris Sherrick asked me if I would like to ride on his bike with him. A bit nervous and apprehensive, my new found adventure and desire to try new things kicked in and I accepted. We went zipping down the highway and I had an absolute blast.
On my stroll with the Lord this evening I found my heart thankful for the little fears of man and technology that the Lord is squishing and exterminating within me. I no longer feel intimidated by silly tasks and adventures. I get nervous about them, yet I step forward in faith trusting that I am in fact invinsible until the Lord chooses to take me home and as long as the Lord keeps providing opportunities for me to experience new things, I should willingly take them.
So for all of those wondering what has gotten into me and perhaps making hypothesis as to why...this adventure has been stewing in me for awhile and over the last month or so I have seen moments of it burst forth. I love adventures and I am excited for all the new ones to come. I'm thankful the Lord takes delight in our lives and gives us things to enjoy, muddle through and conquer throughout the day in His strength, for His glory. :)
I have discovered a desire within myself to be adventurous.
I know for all of you who know me, you're thinking,
"what! Christy adventurous? Right!"*laugh*laugh*
Well for starters, I have lost my compulsiveness to constantly be aware of time.
I am content in letting myself settle in at mealtimes to talk with friends.
I observe the things around me and find joy in what God has created.
I do not feel stressed about deadlines, schedules and the like.
A freedom reigns in my heart that is new and exciting.
Last night, on a whim I went rock-wall climbing in St.John with a group of fellow BBC students. I also attempted a tightrope for quite sometime until I managed to achieve getting myself hoisted onto it and taking 6 steps across. I was excited at my improvement throughout the night.
Two dear friends on campus: Jeremy and Zott had a mouse in their room and managed to, after a couple days, live trap it in their room last night. After class today Jeremy brought the mouse out to show me and set it free. I didn't panic and infact, it was a cute little mouse.
Today, I was working on homework outside because it was absolutely gorgeous and God blessed us with warm sunshine as 3 lovely ladies approached me and asked me to go for a walk with them to a cafe down town. (Now Dad, don't get too excited, I did not under any circumstances try coffee.) My friend Nicole treated us to mixed-berry smoothies and they were absolutely delicious.
Upon returning from my afternoon treat I spent time laughing with friends.
Just before supper my buddy Chris Sherrick asked me if I would like to ride on his bike with him. A bit nervous and apprehensive, my new found adventure and desire to try new things kicked in and I accepted. We went zipping down the highway and I had an absolute blast.
On my stroll with the Lord this evening I found my heart thankful for the little fears of man and technology that the Lord is squishing and exterminating within me. I no longer feel intimidated by silly tasks and adventures. I get nervous about them, yet I step forward in faith trusting that I am in fact invinsible until the Lord chooses to take me home and as long as the Lord keeps providing opportunities for me to experience new things, I should willingly take them.
So for all of those wondering what has gotten into me and perhaps making hypothesis as to why...this adventure has been stewing in me for awhile and over the last month or so I have seen moments of it burst forth. I love adventures and I am excited for all the new ones to come. I'm thankful the Lord takes delight in our lives and gives us things to enjoy, muddle through and conquer throughout the day in His strength, for His glory. :)
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
tis' not a day for flip-flops
I am the type of person who loves making "to do" lists and checking off the things I accomplish throughout the day.
Have you ever had a week where you felt like you were adding a lot more things than you were checking off?
I can't complain about the workload, I've been diligently accomplishing schoolwork for the past few weeks now, but with a big project in clear sight of its deadline, I'll admit, my scheduling is a tad sketchy.
Spring fever does no justice to locking oneself inside the college dormitory to work for hours on end reading a book or typing a paper. It is practically impossible to focus when the sun is beaming happily around the campus and the air is scented with the thoughts of soon coming summer months.
I press on!
The weather here in Sussex has been absolutely ridiculous this week.
To put this in simple terms, it simply can not make up its mind.
Several of my Canadian friends have told me " There's one things you can depend on in Sussex -- if you don't like the weather, stick around for 15 minutes and it will change."
For example: It is currently snowing. At dinnertime it was bright and sunny outside with a warm breeze. Before that a freezing cold wind and some flurries. At lunchtime it was raining. In the morning we had gargantuen snowflakes slinking their way to the earth. All in a day's work. :)
Note to self & other bright cookies out there: flip flops should not be the shoe of choice in this season. snow and open toes do not mesh well.
I'm amazed at how creative God is with the weather and how at this very moment we are accumulating snow on our springtime thawing ground and people a couple thousand miles away are hanging out at the beach or something. It's extrodinary.
Regardless, there's a small update on life's busyness and the weather.
God hasn't been distracted by spring fever and continues His faithful work here at BBC. I am amazed at how quickly an entire year of preparing for ministry has flown by. I press on!
Have you ever had a week where you felt like you were adding a lot more things than you were checking off?
I can't complain about the workload, I've been diligently accomplishing schoolwork for the past few weeks now, but with a big project in clear sight of its deadline, I'll admit, my scheduling is a tad sketchy.
Spring fever does no justice to locking oneself inside the college dormitory to work for hours on end reading a book or typing a paper. It is practically impossible to focus when the sun is beaming happily around the campus and the air is scented with the thoughts of soon coming summer months.
I press on!
The weather here in Sussex has been absolutely ridiculous this week.
To put this in simple terms, it simply can not make up its mind.
Several of my Canadian friends have told me " There's one things you can depend on in Sussex -- if you don't like the weather, stick around for 15 minutes and it will change."
For example: It is currently snowing. At dinnertime it was bright and sunny outside with a warm breeze. Before that a freezing cold wind and some flurries. At lunchtime it was raining. In the morning we had gargantuen snowflakes slinking their way to the earth. All in a day's work. :)
Note to self & other bright cookies out there: flip flops should not be the shoe of choice in this season. snow and open toes do not mesh well.
I'm amazed at how creative God is with the weather and how at this very moment we are accumulating snow on our springtime thawing ground and people a couple thousand miles away are hanging out at the beach or something. It's extrodinary.
Regardless, there's a small update on life's busyness and the weather.
God hasn't been distracted by spring fever and continues His faithful work here at BBC. I am amazed at how quickly an entire year of preparing for ministry has flown by. I press on!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
BBC Chorale Tour 2007 --- Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina,Virginia & Maryland
*I faithfully kept a journal throughout my travels on Chorale tour and then transferred my experiences along with thoughts and reflections into the following journal entries for my student ministry journal. Enjoy! If there is anything I did not elaborate on or sparks your curiosity and you desire to know more about, let me know and I would be more than happy to share. Be blessed by the work God did in my heart and the hearts of my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. We were drained, challenged, blessed and loved on by the Creator of the Universe. GOD is awesome!
Ministry Date: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Chorale tour began with a long and overwhelming day of travels. Our expected 13 hour bus ride, thanks to the pleasant visit of a snowstorm and freezing rain attempted the journey in roughly 17-18 hours. It was in those moments on the bus, squished next to fellow chorale friends that I realized this trip and journey had absolutely nothing to do with me.
Our first tour ministry experience took place at the CLAM conference in Pennsylvania. Their local district comes together and connects once a year to honor God. I was selected to participate in a small ensemble group which basically led to me singing an extra service for the at the youth conference and then again at the adult conference. God has truly stretched me today in these ministry opportunities. When I awoke this morning at my host home I spotted three deer across the road in a field, nibbling on the grass as the sun was rising. I was reminded of the Psalm that calls us to long after God like a deer that pants for the water. My heart and soul were made hungry for Christ, thirsty for His life sustaining, life giving water.
As the conference closed I was reminded of my high school athletic career and the various tunnels and lines that were created to congratulate or encourage us after our matches. As our ministry portion of the conference finished the entire district rose to their feet and made a gauntlet, hugging and kissing us as we left. My heart was encouraged by the words of life people spoke and God used the testimony of His restoring power in my family’s life to encourage and bless many people. I am very thankful for affirmation of God’s work. I have faith in God’s power and I trust that He will complete every good work for those He has called, but still my human heart appreciates hearing the reinforced effects of God’s work voiced. This makes the results seem much more life like, and life changing for me. For example I observed a woman in the pew become weakened and broken as I shared my testimony and in the following song “Through the Fire” we sing of a God who never promised things would be easy, but to hold on when the enemy tells you to give up, because God will show up. At the close of the service, the woman made her way towards me and with a genuine sincerity, our eyes met and my heart was blessed by the touch God had placed on her heart. God is so faithful to use us as His vessels and the more I think about it and partake in ministry, the more unworthy I realize I am and the more dependent I become on God’s strength.
Ministry Date: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Following the CLAM Conference, we wasted no time in boarding the bus and heading to LaPlata, Maryland. We arrived at the church with just enough time to set up the sound equipment and sing through a quick microphone check before the service began. It was frustrating to realize we had neglected prayer time prior to this service. In our rush to get everything set up, we had pushed aside the one thing we needed to do to make the service run correctly, invite God to do His work in it. Aside from my frustrations with group prayer, my heart engaged in warfare against the enemy who was trying so desperately to tear us down.
The Holy Spirit was at work in caring for us, His children tonight. My body has difficultly breathing around smoke and therefore, while I am not allergic, I steer clear of it. Apparently I had been placed in a smoking home for the evening, but randomly and out of nowhere Melissa, our administrative assistant who oversees the billeting, approached me and asked me if I had any problems staying in a smoking home. I mentioned my breathing and she took care of things immediately. What struck me as amazing was that I had never made a big deal about smoking, or even mentioned my struggles to breathe around it, but God was watching over me and for His glory, He kept me healthy by ordaining an evening at another home. I am realizing more and more that God not only strengthens us, but sustains us and empowers us. He makes the path straight before us and gives us feet as sure footed as the deer.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 4, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 4, 2007
My challenge today was to not allow repetition and familiarity to dominate over the power of the Holy Spirit working through me. We ministered during three morning services at LaPlata, Maryland, each with the same song and same message, yet somehow, by God’s grace each service was a little different than the preceding ones. Technology frustrates me sometimes, and today was no exception; however, God allowed my technological difficulty to prove His strength and to bring me laughter instead of frustration. Amy Thompson was counting us into the song “All Things New” and five seconds before I was to come in on opening praise team part, the cord slid loose from my microphone and like a lightening flash I watched myself set the microphone down on the ground and snatch a nearby one before those five beats passed. Slightly embarrassed I was reminded to place my confidence in Christ and not in man or technology. Once again the overriding theme of this busy morning was that it is in no way about me, but absolutely about Jesus Christ and His message of truth as He calls the weary and heavy laden unto Himself, and restores the joy in the hearts of His children. It amazes me to watch God at work in the hearts of my fellow brothers and sisters.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 4, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 4, 2007
This evening we sang in Forest, Virginia. The service began a few minutes late as we once again arrived tardy from our day of travel. In my flesh, my mind can not begin to understand how it takes so much extra time to get somewhere then what was originally planned, but I am continually challenged to be flexible and to trust that God has a plan and purpose for all things. I was battling against the enemy all evening as he weakened me moment by moment. I lost my voice and sang louder and harder, only to gain it back once more. I was brought to tears at the thought of the nothingness I was plagued with. In my heart I felt nothing, but yet my mind brought me to a place of realizing despite the enemy wearing me down, God was shining in and through me. A smile glowed on my face the entire time and just as the enemy intended to weaken me, to destroy the work of God, Christ was instead exalted because God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. I was privileged to watch God’s transforming power at work throughout the congregation and was reassured that while we may not always visually witness the work God does, He still uses us time and time again to plant seeds for His glory.
Ministry Date: Monday, March 5, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Monday, March 5, 2007
Faith Christian Academy had our attention this afternoon as we ministered to a group of 50-75 kids in grades 4-12. I was saddened by the apathy and indifference present on the faces of the young kids, particularly the older kids. Though these children and their teachers were surrounded daily by a curriculum that teaches about Jesus, very few let the light He had placed within them shine. My prayer partner, Carly and I snuck away after the service and went to visit the fourth graders. Compared to the other students we had ministered to, this group had been the most enthusiastic. We had picnic time in their classroom as they shared songs and lessons they had been learning and made donuts in a frying pot. My eyes were opened up to the importance of investing time, energy, and belief into young children. In today’s society children grow up so fast, I think we take for granted their intelligence, capabilities, and dreams. Stretching myself outside of the safety of the my college choir friends and company allowed me to be a witness and example to kids who still have many years ahead of them before they consider going to college. I am thankful for the feeling of being uncomfortable so God can use me in work I would otherwise neglect to consider.
Ministry Date: Monday, March 5, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Monday, March 5, 2007
A lesson I learned this evening was not to judge a person by the number of gray hairs on their head and the strength of their glasses prescription. The size of a sanctuary and congregation are not important because what are walls to the God of the universe? My heart was lifted as we sang “Give me Jesus”. I was reminded that all we need is Jesus in this life, the world can have everything else; I just want Jesus. Following the first two verses of this song, we divide into four rows or two sections depending on the structure of the church and surrounding the congregation we sing “And when I come to die, oh and when I come to die. Give me Jesus!” Locking eyes with an older woman, I knew she had been blessed by the words of this song. Her physical body told a tale of aging and increasing weakness, but her blue eyes reflected a peace the only comes from God. Tears rested upon her pale cheeks and her hands clung comfortably to one another in her lap. What a precious child of the King this woman was and what a witness to my heart. Though no words were exchanged, the work of the Holy Spirit, wrapping the sanctuary in His peace and joy was enough. Give me Jesus!
Ministry Date: Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Tuesday, March 6, 2007
At the evening service in Roanoke, Virginia, I was challenged to humble myself before the Lord, to come and lay down the burdens on my heart and to rest in His peace. At the close of the service Mr. Klob made an altar call, but much to my heart’s disappointment, he simply asked people to respond by standing on their feet. I refused to go kneel at the altar, yet in my heart I greatly wanted to and needed to. I watched as two people slipped by me from the chorale and brought their hearts before our all-powerful God at the altar. I made a deal with God that if He sent one more person to the altar then I would go. Immediately I noticed a sister slip down and I followed. A woman I never caught a glimpse of approached me and resting her hand on my back prayer for strength and for God to lift the burdens on my heart. I felt the Holy Spirit descend on me and His peace fill my spirit and heart. I was so overwhelmed with His goodness and grace that I remained face down for the closing song of the service and only moved once I was sure God had done a work in my heart. I was humbled tonight as I became weak and watched as once again my faithful Heavenly Father caught me in His arms and brought me to a place of rest.
Ministry Date: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
A choice was made today between shopping at a mall and ministering at a nursing home. Given our current circumstances as roles as Chorale members from a Bible college, one could reason which opportunity we chose. President Medder’s Mom resides at a Nursing Home in North Carolina, and as a surprise the nursing staff was more than happy to allow us the opportunity to minister to the patients. We watched as patients in all different walks of health entered the room, some because they had to and others because their hearts truly itched for company and musical entertainment. My heart was moved as I watched the elderly and physically strained men and women rejoice at the truth of Jesus Christ. As I hugged an elderly man, he was so moved by our visit, he began to cry. God’s children are precious at any age and these people are much more fortunate than some of us could reason we are, because for many of them, their days remaining are much fewer than they used to and some day soon they will enter for all eternity into eternity and God’s glory.
Ministry Date: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
We ministered in Randleman, North Carolina tonight and the southern hospitality was heart warming. Bless the Lord for Becky Brady’s testimony of a poor marriage and struggles, but in the midst of these struggles, God’s comfort and promise to keep her safe. Once again the truth of the song “Give me Jesus” was evident in the sanctuary as the powerful words of a friend’s testimony paired with the truth offered in our music. I watched as hearts of young and old alike were overcome with peace. For the older generations the peace was mysterious and sure, while with the younger crew, the peace was filled with wonder and expectation.
Ministry Date: Thursday, March 8, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Thursday, March 8, 2007
My heart was struck with curiosity yesterday evening as I was billeted at the home of a middle-aged couple who had only been attending the church for three weeks, and had never hosted anyone in their home before. Hospitality is truly a gift, and I have been blessed beyond explanation of God’s blessings to me throughout this tour at the many willing homes who have offered food, showers, laundry facilities, and warm beds to sleep in. God truly is Jehovah Jireh, our provider.
We ministered at a service in Keymar, Maryland this evening and I was not surprised ton see the enemy approach with full force. A crazy lady sat in the front row, and apparently no one who attended or worked for the church had ever seen her, but she sat upfront as a distraction, unashamed of her loudness and side comments. As I approached center stage to share my testimony, she looked at our group and screamed that we were all vampires. I continued speaking without hesitation and I know this peace and ability could only come from the Lord. Each and every word of my testimony was given as God intended it and without interruption from the crazy woman who continued to shout about vampires and strange things. Praise the Lord for His power that overcomes all evil. On another note, my heart was drawn to the little children in the service. I was amazed at their ability and willingness to behave and watch as we sang. I met a six-year-old girl named Sarah, whose house I was later billeted at, who shared that she really liked our singing and told me she sings too. I asked her what she sings and after answering with the typical six-year-old answer, “I sing lots of things”, I was able to hear her favorite song “Blessed Be Your Name”. I started singing the song and she joined me. It was a sweet moment of glorifying Christ in company of the faith of a small child. God truly works through old and young alike. I am most certain that God’s call on someone’s like has no age limit. God is limitless in His power. My mind can not comprehend His greatness, but once again I rest in knowing I am secure as a Daughter of the King.
Ministry Date: Friday, March 9, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Friday, March 9, 2007
I was called aside tonight during group prayer and was asked to minister to someone who was being overcome with lies from the enemy. I approached the situation asking God for discernment and direction. As I opened the door, to the room in which this person was, heaviness was present, but the power of Christ in me, rose above it. The person screamed “Get out!”, but I found myself walking towards them. As their eyes flashed with an unknown and very evil presence I pleaded in Jesus’ name for the enemy to flee. I observed a breaking of the heaviness, but was still confronted with sporadic thoughts and lies from the person. I continued to pray God’s truth and peace over them, but as I sang “Holy Spirit come” and invited Him to fill the room, my dear friend became hysterical. They told me to shut up and stop singing. I finished the song and felt the Holy Spirit fill me with His peace and confidence. I returned once again to praying the truth over them, and sensed I needed to seek a higher authority to finish sharing the truth with this friend. As I returned to group prayer I found myself standing in the corner, overcome with the battle I had just encountered and fought with my sword of truth lifted high. My entire body shook as the evidence of my human weakness and God’s moment of empowering me was revealed. A beloved brother approached me with a curious understanding in His eyes and gave me water. He walked me over to the group and as I held his hand I felt secure and safe. A beloved sister pulled me close to her side in a hug as we finished praying and I walked into the service fired up to battle the enemy. Tonight I was reminded that spiritual warfare is not a joke, it is real, and the enemy is very tricky about how and when he strikes. I also realized that when this friend said they hated me it was not me they hated, but the One who dwells within me; because they were being overpowered by the evil one and claiming they hated God and were done with Him. Praise the Lord for His awesome and unfailing power. The Holy Spirit filled the sanctuary tonight. It was absolutely amazing.
Ministry Date: Saturday, March 10, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Saturday, March 10, 2007
Today was our day off in New York City, so while we did not minister in church services this day, I still found evidences of God at work in my life and the lives around me as I was a representative, or Christ’s ambassador in a city full of lost faces. I found it interesting to smile at people who were otherwise in a great hurry to get to their next destination. Receiving smiles back warmed my heart. I attempted to build up workers on the street to made a diligent effort of keeping their area clean and thanked them. Also, while shopping I spotted a homeless man hanging out on the steps of a nearby church. He was bundled up in black clothing and looked very lonely. I walked by without stopping the first time and then knew I had to go back and just acknowledge him. I went back and attempted to start a conversation. The man was thankful for a hello, but shut down at the thought of company. Rather than walking away disappointed because I had not even come close to leading this man through the four spiritual laws, I walked away content and satisfied in knowing that it felt good to stop and acknowledge a man who hundreds of people probably pass by everyday and do not have a second thought about. My heart was also challenged to give a homeless woman some money in her little cup. Our eyes met and as I said “God bless you…” she returned a genuine “God bless you dear!” as well. The Big Apple was greeted by 40+ Bethany Students and I wonder how many people will never be the same because someone took the time to notice them, smile at them, or appreciate them.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 11, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 11, 2007
We had double services this morning and a wave of fatigue swarmed over the Chorale, but we came boldly before the throne of God believing for Him to show up and be our strength, to sing through us and speak through us, because we knew we were incapable. I observed roughly 1/3 of the chorale nodding off as President Medders spoke a message during each service, but by God’s grace heard very little complaining about fatigue. I shared my testimony this morning in both services, and a few ladies approached me and thanked me for sharing the words of truth about God’s power, confessing it encouraged their hearts and fit right in with things they were dealing with in their life. Some beloved friends in Chorale are experiencing family problems and God worked it out during tour for the parents to be present at separate, but very moving services. My time given to sharing my testimony was truly ordained by the Lord, and I was able to witness God working some things together for His perfect plans and was amazed that it worked out “coincidentally” that two people really struggling with this particular issue to be present and to hear the words of truth about our God’s awesome power. With God, all things are possible.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 11, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 11, 2007
The evening hours brought us to a place called the Brooklyn Tabernacle. We were unable to seat a group of 40, however 5 Chorale members were blessed with the opportunity to see them live and the rest of us walked up the street a little bit and watched the concert in the overflowing rooms on a screen. This experience motivated us to quickly set up for our evening service at First Wesleyan in Brooklyn. Honestly, when we arrived at the church I was shocked and amazed in the same moment. We basically were in some potentially sketchy neighborhoods and we walked into a building that looked like all the others on the street and we ministered there. Simplicity and its importance became very clear to me tonight. Worship time was amazing and as a member of the praise team I found myself feeding off the energy of God’s Spirit moving throughout the sanctuary. God sang each and every song through us tonight and spoke each and every word of testimony given. My heart rang out with a cry to bless the Lord, and the evidence of God’s dwelling inside the walls of a street church in Brooklyn became so clear. President Medders spoke a quick word and the truth that poured out from his heart as he broke open the Word could only come from God. My heart overflowed with gladness and broke for the people that surrounded me. Tears stained my cheeks as God reassured me that I was safely in His arms and He would guide me through life, in joys and sorrows. Tour could not have ended on a better note, and I have honestly never experienced the presence of God in a choir setting like this ever before. The Holy Spirit fell heavy tonight on every willing heart and I watched as people around me were broken and restored more into the image of Christ. I watched sorrowful, gloomy faces light up with the joy that only comes from Jesus. God is so faithful and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. We had nothing left to give, but Jesus paid it all. God showed up when out voices were gone, our eyes heavy and our hearts overwhelmed, and He lit a fire of victory in our hearts as we joined hands and marched forward in battle. We never partook in the battle however, because all that was needed was God’s power. Tonight I was reminded once again that I am only a vessel and that it is Christ in me that can accomplish things both great and small. Bless the Lord at all times!
Ministry Date: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Chorale tour began with a long and overwhelming day of travels. Our expected 13 hour bus ride, thanks to the pleasant visit of a snowstorm and freezing rain attempted the journey in roughly 17-18 hours. It was in those moments on the bus, squished next to fellow chorale friends that I realized this trip and journey had absolutely nothing to do with me.
Our first tour ministry experience took place at the CLAM conference in Pennsylvania. Their local district comes together and connects once a year to honor God. I was selected to participate in a small ensemble group which basically led to me singing an extra service for the at the youth conference and then again at the adult conference. God has truly stretched me today in these ministry opportunities. When I awoke this morning at my host home I spotted three deer across the road in a field, nibbling on the grass as the sun was rising. I was reminded of the Psalm that calls us to long after God like a deer that pants for the water. My heart and soul were made hungry for Christ, thirsty for His life sustaining, life giving water.
As the conference closed I was reminded of my high school athletic career and the various tunnels and lines that were created to congratulate or encourage us after our matches. As our ministry portion of the conference finished the entire district rose to their feet and made a gauntlet, hugging and kissing us as we left. My heart was encouraged by the words of life people spoke and God used the testimony of His restoring power in my family’s life to encourage and bless many people. I am very thankful for affirmation of God’s work. I have faith in God’s power and I trust that He will complete every good work for those He has called, but still my human heart appreciates hearing the reinforced effects of God’s work voiced. This makes the results seem much more life like, and life changing for me. For example I observed a woman in the pew become weakened and broken as I shared my testimony and in the following song “Through the Fire” we sing of a God who never promised things would be easy, but to hold on when the enemy tells you to give up, because God will show up. At the close of the service, the woman made her way towards me and with a genuine sincerity, our eyes met and my heart was blessed by the touch God had placed on her heart. God is so faithful to use us as His vessels and the more I think about it and partake in ministry, the more unworthy I realize I am and the more dependent I become on God’s strength.
Ministry Date: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Saturday, March 3, 2007
Following the CLAM Conference, we wasted no time in boarding the bus and heading to LaPlata, Maryland. We arrived at the church with just enough time to set up the sound equipment and sing through a quick microphone check before the service began. It was frustrating to realize we had neglected prayer time prior to this service. In our rush to get everything set up, we had pushed aside the one thing we needed to do to make the service run correctly, invite God to do His work in it. Aside from my frustrations with group prayer, my heart engaged in warfare against the enemy who was trying so desperately to tear us down.
The Holy Spirit was at work in caring for us, His children tonight. My body has difficultly breathing around smoke and therefore, while I am not allergic, I steer clear of it. Apparently I had been placed in a smoking home for the evening, but randomly and out of nowhere Melissa, our administrative assistant who oversees the billeting, approached me and asked me if I had any problems staying in a smoking home. I mentioned my breathing and she took care of things immediately. What struck me as amazing was that I had never made a big deal about smoking, or even mentioned my struggles to breathe around it, but God was watching over me and for His glory, He kept me healthy by ordaining an evening at another home. I am realizing more and more that God not only strengthens us, but sustains us and empowers us. He makes the path straight before us and gives us feet as sure footed as the deer.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 4, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 4, 2007
My challenge today was to not allow repetition and familiarity to dominate over the power of the Holy Spirit working through me. We ministered during three morning services at LaPlata, Maryland, each with the same song and same message, yet somehow, by God’s grace each service was a little different than the preceding ones. Technology frustrates me sometimes, and today was no exception; however, God allowed my technological difficulty to prove His strength and to bring me laughter instead of frustration. Amy Thompson was counting us into the song “All Things New” and five seconds before I was to come in on opening praise team part, the cord slid loose from my microphone and like a lightening flash I watched myself set the microphone down on the ground and snatch a nearby one before those five beats passed. Slightly embarrassed I was reminded to place my confidence in Christ and not in man or technology. Once again the overriding theme of this busy morning was that it is in no way about me, but absolutely about Jesus Christ and His message of truth as He calls the weary and heavy laden unto Himself, and restores the joy in the hearts of His children. It amazes me to watch God at work in the hearts of my fellow brothers and sisters.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 4, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 4, 2007
This evening we sang in Forest, Virginia. The service began a few minutes late as we once again arrived tardy from our day of travel. In my flesh, my mind can not begin to understand how it takes so much extra time to get somewhere then what was originally planned, but I am continually challenged to be flexible and to trust that God has a plan and purpose for all things. I was battling against the enemy all evening as he weakened me moment by moment. I lost my voice and sang louder and harder, only to gain it back once more. I was brought to tears at the thought of the nothingness I was plagued with. In my heart I felt nothing, but yet my mind brought me to a place of realizing despite the enemy wearing me down, God was shining in and through me. A smile glowed on my face the entire time and just as the enemy intended to weaken me, to destroy the work of God, Christ was instead exalted because God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. I was privileged to watch God’s transforming power at work throughout the congregation and was reassured that while we may not always visually witness the work God does, He still uses us time and time again to plant seeds for His glory.
Ministry Date: Monday, March 5, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Monday, March 5, 2007
Faith Christian Academy had our attention this afternoon as we ministered to a group of 50-75 kids in grades 4-12. I was saddened by the apathy and indifference present on the faces of the young kids, particularly the older kids. Though these children and their teachers were surrounded daily by a curriculum that teaches about Jesus, very few let the light He had placed within them shine. My prayer partner, Carly and I snuck away after the service and went to visit the fourth graders. Compared to the other students we had ministered to, this group had been the most enthusiastic. We had picnic time in their classroom as they shared songs and lessons they had been learning and made donuts in a frying pot. My eyes were opened up to the importance of investing time, energy, and belief into young children. In today’s society children grow up so fast, I think we take for granted their intelligence, capabilities, and dreams. Stretching myself outside of the safety of the my college choir friends and company allowed me to be a witness and example to kids who still have many years ahead of them before they consider going to college. I am thankful for the feeling of being uncomfortable so God can use me in work I would otherwise neglect to consider.
Ministry Date: Monday, March 5, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Monday, March 5, 2007
A lesson I learned this evening was not to judge a person by the number of gray hairs on their head and the strength of their glasses prescription. The size of a sanctuary and congregation are not important because what are walls to the God of the universe? My heart was lifted as we sang “Give me Jesus”. I was reminded that all we need is Jesus in this life, the world can have everything else; I just want Jesus. Following the first two verses of this song, we divide into four rows or two sections depending on the structure of the church and surrounding the congregation we sing “And when I come to die, oh and when I come to die. Give me Jesus!” Locking eyes with an older woman, I knew she had been blessed by the words of this song. Her physical body told a tale of aging and increasing weakness, but her blue eyes reflected a peace the only comes from God. Tears rested upon her pale cheeks and her hands clung comfortably to one another in her lap. What a precious child of the King this woman was and what a witness to my heart. Though no words were exchanged, the work of the Holy Spirit, wrapping the sanctuary in His peace and joy was enough. Give me Jesus!
Ministry Date: Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Tuesday, March 6, 2007
At the evening service in Roanoke, Virginia, I was challenged to humble myself before the Lord, to come and lay down the burdens on my heart and to rest in His peace. At the close of the service Mr. Klob made an altar call, but much to my heart’s disappointment, he simply asked people to respond by standing on their feet. I refused to go kneel at the altar, yet in my heart I greatly wanted to and needed to. I watched as two people slipped by me from the chorale and brought their hearts before our all-powerful God at the altar. I made a deal with God that if He sent one more person to the altar then I would go. Immediately I noticed a sister slip down and I followed. A woman I never caught a glimpse of approached me and resting her hand on my back prayer for strength and for God to lift the burdens on my heart. I felt the Holy Spirit descend on me and His peace fill my spirit and heart. I was so overwhelmed with His goodness and grace that I remained face down for the closing song of the service and only moved once I was sure God had done a work in my heart. I was humbled tonight as I became weak and watched as once again my faithful Heavenly Father caught me in His arms and brought me to a place of rest.
Ministry Date: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
A choice was made today between shopping at a mall and ministering at a nursing home. Given our current circumstances as roles as Chorale members from a Bible college, one could reason which opportunity we chose. President Medder’s Mom resides at a Nursing Home in North Carolina, and as a surprise the nursing staff was more than happy to allow us the opportunity to minister to the patients. We watched as patients in all different walks of health entered the room, some because they had to and others because their hearts truly itched for company and musical entertainment. My heart was moved as I watched the elderly and physically strained men and women rejoice at the truth of Jesus Christ. As I hugged an elderly man, he was so moved by our visit, he began to cry. God’s children are precious at any age and these people are much more fortunate than some of us could reason we are, because for many of them, their days remaining are much fewer than they used to and some day soon they will enter for all eternity into eternity and God’s glory.
Ministry Date: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Wednesday, March 7, 2007
We ministered in Randleman, North Carolina tonight and the southern hospitality was heart warming. Bless the Lord for Becky Brady’s testimony of a poor marriage and struggles, but in the midst of these struggles, God’s comfort and promise to keep her safe. Once again the truth of the song “Give me Jesus” was evident in the sanctuary as the powerful words of a friend’s testimony paired with the truth offered in our music. I watched as hearts of young and old alike were overcome with peace. For the older generations the peace was mysterious and sure, while with the younger crew, the peace was filled with wonder and expectation.
Ministry Date: Thursday, March 8, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Thursday, March 8, 2007
My heart was struck with curiosity yesterday evening as I was billeted at the home of a middle-aged couple who had only been attending the church for three weeks, and had never hosted anyone in their home before. Hospitality is truly a gift, and I have been blessed beyond explanation of God’s blessings to me throughout this tour at the many willing homes who have offered food, showers, laundry facilities, and warm beds to sleep in. God truly is Jehovah Jireh, our provider.
We ministered at a service in Keymar, Maryland this evening and I was not surprised ton see the enemy approach with full force. A crazy lady sat in the front row, and apparently no one who attended or worked for the church had ever seen her, but she sat upfront as a distraction, unashamed of her loudness and side comments. As I approached center stage to share my testimony, she looked at our group and screamed that we were all vampires. I continued speaking without hesitation and I know this peace and ability could only come from the Lord. Each and every word of my testimony was given as God intended it and without interruption from the crazy woman who continued to shout about vampires and strange things. Praise the Lord for His power that overcomes all evil. On another note, my heart was drawn to the little children in the service. I was amazed at their ability and willingness to behave and watch as we sang. I met a six-year-old girl named Sarah, whose house I was later billeted at, who shared that she really liked our singing and told me she sings too. I asked her what she sings and after answering with the typical six-year-old answer, “I sing lots of things”, I was able to hear her favorite song “Blessed Be Your Name”. I started singing the song and she joined me. It was a sweet moment of glorifying Christ in company of the faith of a small child. God truly works through old and young alike. I am most certain that God’s call on someone’s like has no age limit. God is limitless in His power. My mind can not comprehend His greatness, but once again I rest in knowing I am secure as a Daughter of the King.
Ministry Date: Friday, March 9, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Friday, March 9, 2007
I was called aside tonight during group prayer and was asked to minister to someone who was being overcome with lies from the enemy. I approached the situation asking God for discernment and direction. As I opened the door, to the room in which this person was, heaviness was present, but the power of Christ in me, rose above it. The person screamed “Get out!”, but I found myself walking towards them. As their eyes flashed with an unknown and very evil presence I pleaded in Jesus’ name for the enemy to flee. I observed a breaking of the heaviness, but was still confronted with sporadic thoughts and lies from the person. I continued to pray God’s truth and peace over them, but as I sang “Holy Spirit come” and invited Him to fill the room, my dear friend became hysterical. They told me to shut up and stop singing. I finished the song and felt the Holy Spirit fill me with His peace and confidence. I returned once again to praying the truth over them, and sensed I needed to seek a higher authority to finish sharing the truth with this friend. As I returned to group prayer I found myself standing in the corner, overcome with the battle I had just encountered and fought with my sword of truth lifted high. My entire body shook as the evidence of my human weakness and God’s moment of empowering me was revealed. A beloved brother approached me with a curious understanding in His eyes and gave me water. He walked me over to the group and as I held his hand I felt secure and safe. A beloved sister pulled me close to her side in a hug as we finished praying and I walked into the service fired up to battle the enemy. Tonight I was reminded that spiritual warfare is not a joke, it is real, and the enemy is very tricky about how and when he strikes. I also realized that when this friend said they hated me it was not me they hated, but the One who dwells within me; because they were being overpowered by the evil one and claiming they hated God and were done with Him. Praise the Lord for His awesome and unfailing power. The Holy Spirit filled the sanctuary tonight. It was absolutely amazing.
Ministry Date: Saturday, March 10, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Saturday, March 10, 2007
Today was our day off in New York City, so while we did not minister in church services this day, I still found evidences of God at work in my life and the lives around me as I was a representative, or Christ’s ambassador in a city full of lost faces. I found it interesting to smile at people who were otherwise in a great hurry to get to their next destination. Receiving smiles back warmed my heart. I attempted to build up workers on the street to made a diligent effort of keeping their area clean and thanked them. Also, while shopping I spotted a homeless man hanging out on the steps of a nearby church. He was bundled up in black clothing and looked very lonely. I walked by without stopping the first time and then knew I had to go back and just acknowledge him. I went back and attempted to start a conversation. The man was thankful for a hello, but shut down at the thought of company. Rather than walking away disappointed because I had not even come close to leading this man through the four spiritual laws, I walked away content and satisfied in knowing that it felt good to stop and acknowledge a man who hundreds of people probably pass by everyday and do not have a second thought about. My heart was also challenged to give a homeless woman some money in her little cup. Our eyes met and as I said “God bless you…” she returned a genuine “God bless you dear!” as well. The Big Apple was greeted by 40+ Bethany Students and I wonder how many people will never be the same because someone took the time to notice them, smile at them, or appreciate them.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 11, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 11, 2007
We had double services this morning and a wave of fatigue swarmed over the Chorale, but we came boldly before the throne of God believing for Him to show up and be our strength, to sing through us and speak through us, because we knew we were incapable. I observed roughly 1/3 of the chorale nodding off as President Medders spoke a message during each service, but by God’s grace heard very little complaining about fatigue. I shared my testimony this morning in both services, and a few ladies approached me and thanked me for sharing the words of truth about God’s power, confessing it encouraged their hearts and fit right in with things they were dealing with in their life. Some beloved friends in Chorale are experiencing family problems and God worked it out during tour for the parents to be present at separate, but very moving services. My time given to sharing my testimony was truly ordained by the Lord, and I was able to witness God working some things together for His perfect plans and was amazed that it worked out “coincidentally” that two people really struggling with this particular issue to be present and to hear the words of truth about our God’s awesome power. With God, all things are possible.
Ministry Date: Sunday, March 11, 2007
Date of Journal Entry: Sunday, March 11, 2007
The evening hours brought us to a place called the Brooklyn Tabernacle. We were unable to seat a group of 40, however 5 Chorale members were blessed with the opportunity to see them live and the rest of us walked up the street a little bit and watched the concert in the overflowing rooms on a screen. This experience motivated us to quickly set up for our evening service at First Wesleyan in Brooklyn. Honestly, when we arrived at the church I was shocked and amazed in the same moment. We basically were in some potentially sketchy neighborhoods and we walked into a building that looked like all the others on the street and we ministered there. Simplicity and its importance became very clear to me tonight. Worship time was amazing and as a member of the praise team I found myself feeding off the energy of God’s Spirit moving throughout the sanctuary. God sang each and every song through us tonight and spoke each and every word of testimony given. My heart rang out with a cry to bless the Lord, and the evidence of God’s dwelling inside the walls of a street church in Brooklyn became so clear. President Medders spoke a quick word and the truth that poured out from his heart as he broke open the Word could only come from God. My heart overflowed with gladness and broke for the people that surrounded me. Tears stained my cheeks as God reassured me that I was safely in His arms and He would guide me through life, in joys and sorrows. Tour could not have ended on a better note, and I have honestly never experienced the presence of God in a choir setting like this ever before. The Holy Spirit fell heavy tonight on every willing heart and I watched as people around me were broken and restored more into the image of Christ. I watched sorrowful, gloomy faces light up with the joy that only comes from Jesus. God is so faithful and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. We had nothing left to give, but Jesus paid it all. God showed up when out voices were gone, our eyes heavy and our hearts overwhelmed, and He lit a fire of victory in our hearts as we joined hands and marched forward in battle. We never partook in the battle however, because all that was needed was God’s power. Tonight I was reminded once again that I am only a vessel and that it is Christ in me that can accomplish things both great and small. Bless the Lord at all times!
a photographic taste of Chorale tour 2007
Chorale tour moments caught on film including:
-Kara moments
-Bayley's chips
-sweaty armpits after singing at the nursing home
-bus ride entertainment
-hanging out at the church in LaPlata,MD
-a beautiful painting of the soldier at Jesus' cross
Our day off in New York City!
I ventured throughout the city with: Tom,Josh,Jen,Jessica,Amy,Chris & Jeremy.
We had a blast!
A few other random Chorale moments including:
-meal time in Brooklyn
-bus time
-the Appomattox Court House
Stay tuned for a relection on tour and the amazing, stretching work God did in and through us during March break! Blessings!
-Kara moments
-Bayley's chips
-sweaty armpits after singing at the nursing home
-bus ride entertainment
-hanging out at the church in LaPlata,MD
-a beautiful painting of the soldier at Jesus' cross
 | Cool Slideshows |
Our day off in New York City!
I ventured throughout the city with: Tom,Josh,Jen,Jessica,Amy,Chris & Jeremy.
We had a blast!
| Cool Slideshows |
A few other random Chorale moments including:
-meal time in Brooklyn
-bus time
-the Appomattox Court House
| Cool Slideshows |
Stay tuned for a relection on tour and the amazing, stretching work God did in and through us during March break! Blessings!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
exciting construction around BBC
*BUiLdInGs are rising up on campus as the construction of the campus chapel has become underway...as a bonus to the benefits it will provide us in the fall, it is a lovely time passer and interesting adventure to watch the various beams of steel create a frame of our soon to be built chapel! Just thought I'd update on the construction in the area!
On another note...one bitty sleep until CHORALE TOUR!
Keep us in your prayers!!
On another note...one bitty sleep until CHORALE TOUR!
Keep us in your prayers!!
Monday, February 26, 2007
personal evangelism trip: harvest house
Both feet hit the frozen ground as my eyes adjusted to the faint beams of the streetlights. The scent of smoke lingered in the air as the chill of winter pierced my lungs. We swarmed into the building greeted by a gentleman named Danny. The XD students went to work immediately setting up, as I stood observing the area and imagining what God could possibly have planned for the evening at Harvest House.
Guests arrived and I decided to get comfortable by mingling with my unknown friends. Taking a deep breath I readied myself for a night of expectancy and waiting on the Lord to do His work through me.
I soon spotted a middle-aged man clad in his outdoorsman getup, a gruff expression canvassing his sad face. I approached him with an unsure smile and found out his name was Daniel. Throughout the evening Daniel shared with me that he has received a message from God to preach to the world out of Isaiah 61. He said he has been persecuted and desires to kill or seek revenge against the people who persecuted him. Daniel knew a lot about Jesus; at least he tried to sound like he did. Anger raged within his cold heart as he used scripture to enforce his anger and declared an anointing by the Holy Spirit to speak five different languages. I was challenged to recall and joyfully present scripture in a light of truth against darkness.
Next I spoke with an older gentleman named Andre. Andre was very shy and kept to himself until he realized that I was a good listener. As soon as I asked him a question he was off running with story upon story about fishing and traveling. Andre seemed lonely, longing for someone to talk with, so I decided to invest some time in his life by listening. As he told me tale after tale about fishing, a thought came to my mind and I was reminded of the story in the Bible where Jesus tells His disciples to fish during broad daylight, and the boats were miraculously filled and overflowed. Andre assured me that he had caught more fish than Jesus and continued reliving the adventures of his fishing life.
God is always challenging me to seek Him more and to trust Him and His perfect will, so after two interesting encounters filling my night, God was not finished. Cory Doiron spoke a message about God chasing after you and desiring to find you and love you. A challenge was given to anyone who was hiding from God or hiding a part of their life from Him to come and lay it down, to come and let God find them so He could love them. People swarmed to the altar and I hung back waiting to see if the Lord intended me to go forward and pray for someone.
A young woman approached the front and instantly I found myself moving towards the front to pray for her. Amanda told me she was pregnant and very weak, so we prayed for strength. She looked at me with tears filling her eyes and said she wanted and needed to get right with God. I inquired if she wanted to make this the night and she replied with a heartfelt, burdened yes. I prayed with Amanda and she asked Jesus to make her new and invited Him into her life. We then prayed for the tiny life growing inside of her and for health, strength, and wisdom as her pregnancy wears on.
After praying with Amanda, we spent a time in worship and celebrating God’s faithfulness. As I glanced over, the look of joy on Amanda’s face shining from her heart, warmed me and was absolutely priceless. Every moment leading to the time I found myself kneeling beside a broken sister was worth waiting for. To see a life change before my very eyes and to be reminded of the newness Christ offers to those who call upon Him to take their lives and to love them moved my heart. God’s love brings such a resounding joy into the hearts He dwells in, there is simply nothing like watching God at work in the life of a fellow human being.
Every ounce of my energy and joy came from Christ in the instant Amanda said yes and a smile covered my face as I rejoiced in Yahweh who is all powerful. This moment was defining for me because it has been nearly a year since I have prayed beside someone entering the Kingdom of Heaven. It has been much too long, and yet still God loves me enough to use me as His vessel, to bless me in a situation that had absolutely nothing to do with me. As I made myself available to His service, God grabbed hold of my hand and promised to lead the way.
Through the spectrum of opportunities God allowed me to have during my evening at Harvest House, my eyes were opened to the truth that God always meets us at the point of our need. I was able to recognize in this trip that I can be bold for Christ by speaking words of life and by offering a listening ear to the unheard in the world.
My mind came to a realization that the Holy Spirit will not only sing through me in Chorale, and speak through me as I share my testimony on our outings, but that He has called me to share Him and the truth of God’s Word in all opportunities He gives. I do not need a microphone or a platform for God to show up and use me. I can simply be His child and rest in the knowledge that I am a daughter of the King, beloved, and called according to His purposes. I can trust God to prove faithful as I follow His leading in my life. I learned that it is probably safe to assume that evangelism is like a bunch of snowflakes, no two opportunities to share Christ are alike.
Guests arrived and I decided to get comfortable by mingling with my unknown friends. Taking a deep breath I readied myself for a night of expectancy and waiting on the Lord to do His work through me.
I soon spotted a middle-aged man clad in his outdoorsman getup, a gruff expression canvassing his sad face. I approached him with an unsure smile and found out his name was Daniel. Throughout the evening Daniel shared with me that he has received a message from God to preach to the world out of Isaiah 61. He said he has been persecuted and desires to kill or seek revenge against the people who persecuted him. Daniel knew a lot about Jesus; at least he tried to sound like he did. Anger raged within his cold heart as he used scripture to enforce his anger and declared an anointing by the Holy Spirit to speak five different languages. I was challenged to recall and joyfully present scripture in a light of truth against darkness.
Next I spoke with an older gentleman named Andre. Andre was very shy and kept to himself until he realized that I was a good listener. As soon as I asked him a question he was off running with story upon story about fishing and traveling. Andre seemed lonely, longing for someone to talk with, so I decided to invest some time in his life by listening. As he told me tale after tale about fishing, a thought came to my mind and I was reminded of the story in the Bible where Jesus tells His disciples to fish during broad daylight, and the boats were miraculously filled and overflowed. Andre assured me that he had caught more fish than Jesus and continued reliving the adventures of his fishing life.
God is always challenging me to seek Him more and to trust Him and His perfect will, so after two interesting encounters filling my night, God was not finished. Cory Doiron spoke a message about God chasing after you and desiring to find you and love you. A challenge was given to anyone who was hiding from God or hiding a part of their life from Him to come and lay it down, to come and let God find them so He could love them. People swarmed to the altar and I hung back waiting to see if the Lord intended me to go forward and pray for someone.
A young woman approached the front and instantly I found myself moving towards the front to pray for her. Amanda told me she was pregnant and very weak, so we prayed for strength. She looked at me with tears filling her eyes and said she wanted and needed to get right with God. I inquired if she wanted to make this the night and she replied with a heartfelt, burdened yes. I prayed with Amanda and she asked Jesus to make her new and invited Him into her life. We then prayed for the tiny life growing inside of her and for health, strength, and wisdom as her pregnancy wears on.
After praying with Amanda, we spent a time in worship and celebrating God’s faithfulness. As I glanced over, the look of joy on Amanda’s face shining from her heart, warmed me and was absolutely priceless. Every moment leading to the time I found myself kneeling beside a broken sister was worth waiting for. To see a life change before my very eyes and to be reminded of the newness Christ offers to those who call upon Him to take their lives and to love them moved my heart. God’s love brings such a resounding joy into the hearts He dwells in, there is simply nothing like watching God at work in the life of a fellow human being.
Every ounce of my energy and joy came from Christ in the instant Amanda said yes and a smile covered my face as I rejoiced in Yahweh who is all powerful. This moment was defining for me because it has been nearly a year since I have prayed beside someone entering the Kingdom of Heaven. It has been much too long, and yet still God loves me enough to use me as His vessel, to bless me in a situation that had absolutely nothing to do with me. As I made myself available to His service, God grabbed hold of my hand and promised to lead the way.
Through the spectrum of opportunities God allowed me to have during my evening at Harvest House, my eyes were opened to the truth that God always meets us at the point of our need. I was able to recognize in this trip that I can be bold for Christ by speaking words of life and by offering a listening ear to the unheard in the world.
My mind came to a realization that the Holy Spirit will not only sing through me in Chorale, and speak through me as I share my testimony on our outings, but that He has called me to share Him and the truth of God’s Word in all opportunities He gives. I do not need a microphone or a platform for God to show up and use me. I can simply be His child and rest in the knowledge that I am a daughter of the King, beloved, and called according to His purposes. I can trust God to prove faithful as I follow His leading in my life. I learned that it is probably safe to assume that evangelism is like a bunch of snowflakes, no two opportunities to share Christ are alike.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
You oh Lord
The words from a song of a beloved sister of faith have blessed my heart and beckoned me to press on...to praise God who gives me life and breath through joys and struggles...for His glory.
"You give me joy indescribable...
my faith is unshakable...
You give me peace when my mountains seem - insurmountable.
Oh mighty are you Lord!
Songs of joy and victory resound.
Your love endures forever...
my Strength and my Song. "
- words by E.R.
"You give me joy indescribable...
my faith is unshakable...
You give me peace when my mountains seem - insurmountable.
Oh mighty are you Lord!
Songs of joy and victory resound.
Your love endures forever...
my Strength and my Song. "
- words by E.R.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
boo-hoo i've got the flu
Tis' flu season and all through the house not a creature was sneezing, not even a mouse...
Unfortunately this was the truth yesterday and many days before then, but this morning I awoke with a sore throat, better yet a Chorale members worst nightmare. With tour coming soon I keep praying for strength to press through, for strength to endure and survive 10 days of intense singing and worshipping of the Lord. Sickness is not something I would like distracting from the ministry at hand. However, I am a feeble being and very much capable of and suseptible to diseases and disorders of not so good natures...so I caught the flu.
I shrugged off the sore throat this morning with a heaping bowl of healthy cereal and promised myself I'd get better.
Dad took me out to lunch this afternoon and after consuming a pill to either cure or prevent the flu, which mom had sent home from the ER in a rush...I was a little dizzy, lightheaded and nauseaus. Sherri was at home resting after being diagnosed with the flu, and after a yummy luncheon at Gov's and a painfully dizzy ride home from Presque Isle I excused myself to the restroom where I proceeded to return all consumed food from lunchtime yesterday to this afternoon's milkshake.
I dislike being sick very much and am certain that the only good thing about throwing up is that it empties your belly and lessens the queeziness. God was pretty creative in how He made our bodies with the ability to remove unnecessary, or unwanted substances from our bodies, even if by way of sickness like the flu.
Tis' flu season...and unfortunately I must pay the price of missing an evening service at one of my favorite places in the world, PIWC, so as not to contaminate those I love.
My belly is blah.
My mind is bored.
My heart is thankful for rest, even if it has come in the form of sickness.
Unfortunately this was the truth yesterday and many days before then, but this morning I awoke with a sore throat, better yet a Chorale members worst nightmare. With tour coming soon I keep praying for strength to press through, for strength to endure and survive 10 days of intense singing and worshipping of the Lord. Sickness is not something I would like distracting from the ministry at hand. However, I am a feeble being and very much capable of and suseptible to diseases and disorders of not so good natures...so I caught the flu.
I shrugged off the sore throat this morning with a heaping bowl of healthy cereal and promised myself I'd get better.
Dad took me out to lunch this afternoon and after consuming a pill to either cure or prevent the flu, which mom had sent home from the ER in a rush...I was a little dizzy, lightheaded and nauseaus. Sherri was at home resting after being diagnosed with the flu, and after a yummy luncheon at Gov's and a painfully dizzy ride home from Presque Isle I excused myself to the restroom where I proceeded to return all consumed food from lunchtime yesterday to this afternoon's milkshake.
I dislike being sick very much and am certain that the only good thing about throwing up is that it empties your belly and lessens the queeziness. God was pretty creative in how He made our bodies with the ability to remove unnecessary, or unwanted substances from our bodies, even if by way of sickness like the flu.
Tis' flu season...and unfortunately I must pay the price of missing an evening service at one of my favorite places in the world, PIWC, so as not to contaminate those I love.
My belly is blah.
My mind is bored.
My heart is thankful for rest, even if it has come in the form of sickness.
Friday, February 09, 2007
a white horse
I was thinking today about how great it is going to be in Heaven one day, to be with my Jesus and to ride on the white horse He's prepared just for me..to ride as a warrior into battle, under direction of the King of the entire universe! Bethany Dillon's song "Dreamer" always brings a smile to my face with the words "...the King in the winner's circle, on the horse He won for me..."
Lord, you amaze me.
You capture me with Your love and cover me with Your grace.
You heal me when I'm broken and stretch me in Your plans.
O how I want to know You more dear King of my heart!
To be called your child and your bride, used as your vessel,I do not deserve.
You are Mighty!
Lord, you amaze me.
You capture me with Your love and cover me with Your grace.
You heal me when I'm broken and stretch me in Your plans.
O how I want to know You more dear King of my heart!
To be called your child and your bride, used as your vessel,I do not deserve.
You are Mighty!
Monday, February 05, 2007
application of God's word
Lately I have been challenged with this question from one of my textbook readings: "How am I applying the Word of God to my life?"
I know what all of you pre or post-college students may be thinking...why read on? She said she found it in a textbook, must not be for me. Look beyond the surface and hear my heart on this.
So often we sit in a service or a chapel, a worship concert and we do simply that, we just sit there. Sure we may engage in worship and even feel things in our hearts but what happens to our hearts as soon as we break open the Word? Does your mind wonder to the tasks of the day and what you will be doing next, or are you truly engaged? Always??
Personally, my eyes have been opened to this area of struggle in my life. I've begun to realize that I simply cannot be an effective minister of the Lord without allowing His Word to root itself deeply within me, without meditating on His Word, His truth and claiming them over and over again through life's daily battles.
My roomate made a comment last night that struck me. I was dumfounded at my easy nod and passivity in the moment. While discussing Encounter, our evening campus service, she remarked " I guess I am just happy seeing students up there preaching. It is okay to not get anything out of what they say. It is basically the same thing every week anyway. I know that we just go to support them and help them practice. I'm not there to get anything from the message and that is okay, I can't expect to."
NO!!!!! That is so wrong! This is our greatest problem in churches and on Christian campuses today. We don't come expectant before the God of the universe. We don't allow training leaders to be empowered because we have closed our ears and even worse than that we have have closed off our hearts. We go simply to go. We sing because worship is obviously the "best" part of the service. Joshua 1:8 commands us to meditate on the Law day and night. This law being the Word.
Bottom line: it is NOT okay to not "get anything" from the message. A good minister of the word will leave those with open hearts, to go home after the service still meditating on the deep truths of scripture, challenging themselves to apply them to their lives. It is not okay to be okay with just going.
My heart breaks and is absolutely frightened by this non-chalant approach to church and especially to the Word of God. I myself have been convicted with this truth. To be the Lord's hand extended and to feed His sheep, I myself must know His word. From the abundance of my heart I wish for His word to come and to dwell continually. To minister to the world, I have to first know WHO God is, and WHAT His Word says and HOW to apply it to my life.
So I ask you my beloved friends and loved ones, are you satisfied? Are you applying the Word to your life, or are you okay with not "getting anything" because it is good enough to simply "go".
I know what all of you pre or post-college students may be thinking...why read on? She said she found it in a textbook, must not be for me. Look beyond the surface and hear my heart on this.
So often we sit in a service or a chapel, a worship concert and we do simply that, we just sit there. Sure we may engage in worship and even feel things in our hearts but what happens to our hearts as soon as we break open the Word? Does your mind wonder to the tasks of the day and what you will be doing next, or are you truly engaged? Always??
Personally, my eyes have been opened to this area of struggle in my life. I've begun to realize that I simply cannot be an effective minister of the Lord without allowing His Word to root itself deeply within me, without meditating on His Word, His truth and claiming them over and over again through life's daily battles.
My roomate made a comment last night that struck me. I was dumfounded at my easy nod and passivity in the moment. While discussing Encounter, our evening campus service, she remarked " I guess I am just happy seeing students up there preaching. It is okay to not get anything out of what they say. It is basically the same thing every week anyway. I know that we just go to support them and help them practice. I'm not there to get anything from the message and that is okay, I can't expect to."
NO!!!!! That is so wrong! This is our greatest problem in churches and on Christian campuses today. We don't come expectant before the God of the universe. We don't allow training leaders to be empowered because we have closed our ears and even worse than that we have have closed off our hearts. We go simply to go. We sing because worship is obviously the "best" part of the service. Joshua 1:8 commands us to meditate on the Law day and night. This law being the Word.
Bottom line: it is NOT okay to not "get anything" from the message. A good minister of the word will leave those with open hearts, to go home after the service still meditating on the deep truths of scripture, challenging themselves to apply them to their lives. It is not okay to be okay with just going.
My heart breaks and is absolutely frightened by this non-chalant approach to church and especially to the Word of God. I myself have been convicted with this truth. To be the Lord's hand extended and to feed His sheep, I myself must know His word. From the abundance of my heart I wish for His word to come and to dwell continually. To minister to the world, I have to first know WHO God is, and WHAT His Word says and HOW to apply it to my life.
So I ask you my beloved friends and loved ones, are you satisfied? Are you applying the Word to your life, or are you okay with not "getting anything" because it is good enough to simply "go".
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
the King of my heart
This song has been on my heart lately:
"Lord prepare me, to be a sanctuary. Pure and holy. Tride and true. With thanksgiving, I'll be a living...sanctuary, for You."
The words of this song encourage me to look at how I am presenting myself to Christ. Have I humbled myself before the Lord, allowing Him to prepare me as a sanctuary, pure and holy, tride and true? Am I living in thanksgiving each day for the King of Kings who is mindful of me regardless of how often I fall, the One who always catches me?
Isaiah 43 has been exciting me lately. It speaks if how God is calling upon His people Israel. He has ransomed them and called them His. He promises in deep waters to be there, that they will not drown in rivers of trial, and when they walk through the fires, they will not be burned. They are precious to God and therefore He has ransomed them. His people have failed to realize the desire God has for them and have sinned against Him from the beginning of time. This chapter in Isaiah stirs something in me that creates the desire to be pure and holy, acceptable, a sanctuary for my King.
Life brings its fires, but God will take us through the fire again and again and again. He is worthy of all praise. He is good and faithful and His love endures through all circumstances. Psalm 18 speaks of God as our Rock and shield. He is our strength and supports us with His right hand.
I am overwhelmed many times with the call of my life, but to God be the glory, for great things He has done and great things is doing and great things He has planned.
"Lord prepare me, to be a sanctuary. Pure and holy. Tride and true. With thanksgiving, I'll be a living...sanctuary, for You."
The words of this song encourage me to look at how I am presenting myself to Christ. Have I humbled myself before the Lord, allowing Him to prepare me as a sanctuary, pure and holy, tride and true? Am I living in thanksgiving each day for the King of Kings who is mindful of me regardless of how often I fall, the One who always catches me?
Isaiah 43 has been exciting me lately. It speaks if how God is calling upon His people Israel. He has ransomed them and called them His. He promises in deep waters to be there, that they will not drown in rivers of trial, and when they walk through the fires, they will not be burned. They are precious to God and therefore He has ransomed them. His people have failed to realize the desire God has for them and have sinned against Him from the beginning of time. This chapter in Isaiah stirs something in me that creates the desire to be pure and holy, acceptable, a sanctuary for my King.
Life brings its fires, but God will take us through the fire again and again and again. He is worthy of all praise. He is good and faithful and His love endures through all circumstances. Psalm 18 speaks of God as our Rock and shield. He is our strength and supports us with His right hand.
I am overwhelmed many times with the call of my life, but to God be the glory, for great things He has done and great things is doing and great things He has planned.
Friday, January 26, 2007
obedience...really?
As a young woman after God's heart, desiring evermore to please Him and bring glory to His name in all I do...I have been challenged in obedience. All the time I say "Yes Lord, I will follow you wherever you lead. Yes Lord, send me and I will go. I will do anything for you Lord." It is interesting how we sometimes pray away God's voice. Some people may have strange faces thinking about this thought...but what I mean is sometimes when the Lord tries to speak to us, we assume that gives us automatic right to pray about it when sometimes all we really do is cut Him off from speaking more.
Last night I was faced with a very big decision. God spoke and I had a choice. I could obey and experience His peace that surpasses all understanding or I could walk away and pretend I hadn't heard. Well God has a hold of my heart so the latter was simply not an option. This broke me. "How God? I can't do this. How?" I begged. God answered "Fear not my child, I'm with you always, I know every thought and every tear I see. Fear not my child, I'm with you always, I know how to care for what belongs to me."
I spent a lengthy time in His word. A few hours later I did the unthinkable, and God was right, "fear not my child, I'm with you always..." Returning from this emotional and heart wrenching moment, I felt at peace and puzzled by the joy which had overcome me. I spent some more time in His word and journaling and this old song came to me which I sang in an act of worship:
" I cry out for your hands of mercy to heal me. I am weak. I need your love to free me. Oh Lord, my Rock. You're my strength in weakness. Come rescue me, Oh Lord. You are my hope, and your promise never fails me. And my desire, is to follow you forever--for you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me, for you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me..."
This morning I awoke overcome with His joy and His peace. Then He assured me with the unthinkable. He had cleared the way for this situation to be mended and completed once again. "What Lord? Not even 1 day?" I asked. "I know how to care for what belongs to me." He responded.
God revealed Himself to me and brought me to a place of intimacy I have been missing and lacking since I got on campus. He has restored my heart and shown me that He alone is the King of my heart. His promises never fail.
All I can say is God is good and now I await the next step, I await His perfect timing and hand of grace to cover us once again.
Be blessed today beloved friends!
Last night I was faced with a very big decision. God spoke and I had a choice. I could obey and experience His peace that surpasses all understanding or I could walk away and pretend I hadn't heard. Well God has a hold of my heart so the latter was simply not an option. This broke me. "How God? I can't do this. How?" I begged. God answered "Fear not my child, I'm with you always, I know every thought and every tear I see. Fear not my child, I'm with you always, I know how to care for what belongs to me."
I spent a lengthy time in His word. A few hours later I did the unthinkable, and God was right, "fear not my child, I'm with you always..." Returning from this emotional and heart wrenching moment, I felt at peace and puzzled by the joy which had overcome me. I spent some more time in His word and journaling and this old song came to me which I sang in an act of worship:
" I cry out for your hands of mercy to heal me. I am weak. I need your love to free me. Oh Lord, my Rock. You're my strength in weakness. Come rescue me, Oh Lord. You are my hope, and your promise never fails me. And my desire, is to follow you forever--for you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me, for you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me..."
This morning I awoke overcome with His joy and His peace. Then He assured me with the unthinkable. He had cleared the way for this situation to be mended and completed once again. "What Lord? Not even 1 day?" I asked. "I know how to care for what belongs to me." He responded.
God revealed Himself to me and brought me to a place of intimacy I have been missing and lacking since I got on campus. He has restored my heart and shown me that He alone is the King of my heart. His promises never fail.
All I can say is God is good and now I await the next step, I await His perfect timing and hand of grace to cover us once again.
Be blessed today beloved friends!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Monday, January 22, 2007
chorale weekend
This weekend was our first official Chorale outing and I came into the trip with high expectations of God going to work in the hearts we were able to minister to. I was blessed this weekend as I watched some reluctant, weary faces give way to the Prince of Peace, surrendering before the Lord and seeking His yoke that is easy and His burden that is light. God is faithful to show up and when we come with expectancty, He will blow us away in His goodness and faithfulness to follow through. He hears the prayers and knows the hearts of His children. I am overwhelmed with the power of Christ that dwells in me, the strength He lifts me with and His peace that surpasses all understanding.
I had the privilege of sharing my testimony twice this weekend and each time I was honored to speak words of life about a living, real and loving God who restores, heals and is awesome in power. The Lord has been challenging me and stretching me to seek first His voice and His Kingdom, through His word, and in times of quiet. He is always near, but unfortunately I forget to listen sometimes and I neglect the fact that I am first called to be a vessel for Christ, as means by which His truth may be spread throughout this world, a vessel through which His joy may be freely loosed and worship will sing through my heart. I am called to be broken and humble before the God of the universe, because He has called me.
His word is truth!
He is near!
His plans are perfect!
His grace is sufficient!
I am not worthy of the call...but called I am...by the King of King and Lord of Lords.|
I'm longing to bring honor and glory to His great and Holy name!
I had the privilege of sharing my testimony twice this weekend and each time I was honored to speak words of life about a living, real and loving God who restores, heals and is awesome in power. The Lord has been challenging me and stretching me to seek first His voice and His Kingdom, through His word, and in times of quiet. He is always near, but unfortunately I forget to listen sometimes and I neglect the fact that I am first called to be a vessel for Christ, as means by which His truth may be spread throughout this world, a vessel through which His joy may be freely loosed and worship will sing through my heart. I am called to be broken and humble before the God of the universe, because He has called me.
His word is truth!
He is near!
His plans are perfect!
His grace is sufficient!
I am not worthy of the call...but called I am...by the King of King and Lord of Lords.|
I'm longing to bring honor and glory to His great and Holy name!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Looking back...
Ushering in the new year has always been an adventure for me. I usually stay up late making a list of resolutions for the coming year and take time to reflect upon all that has happened that I enjoyed over the past twelve months.
This year brings to me a significantly different way of dealing with things. As I look back upon 2006 I'm overwhelmed. My times of reflection always lead to tears and awe at how my Savior, my God, Jesus Christ has so moved over the past year, 365 days...and how He continues to overwhelm me with Himself each day as I awaken.
For many another year has come and we're nearly 2 weeks started into the next. I don't know about you, but has it ever broken you to think about God's grace at work in your life? Have you thought about how different things would be without Him?
In April of 2004 my life changed forever. Walking through a summer of a broken family, divorce and every other issue that could throw in its two cents, I was broken and falling before the Creator of the universe, my Bestfriend in the wholewide world, the Lover of my soul, and pleading with Him, to take me as I am, committing to Him control of my life, plans and relationships. In September of that same year, I watched my family be put back together piece by piece by piece by piece by piece and my parents marriage restored. God remembered my commitment to Him and the adventure began. In this time, God told me He wanted me to go to a Christian college, to BBC in fact, He called me to counsel, He placed a man in my life that causes me to wonder everyday why I'm so blessed, and my family is whole.
This year...
In September I successfully began my college career at BBC, even making the Dean's List when marks closed in December. In April, my Daddy came home from Iraq...where he left just a few short months after our family was restored.
God has done so much and I am so unworthy, but these few, lifechanging events in my life, all promises from the LORD, have come to pass in this year. 2006 has been a time of faith for me...a time of growing in my dependency on the LORD to be abundant in my life, to be my provision, my guide, my greatest love and the center of my focus. He has overcome me with His goodness and most days I can't help but smile. He's taught me to trust Him, to take Him at His word and to hungrily chase Him for more...to draw near and to go away with Him.
The words of Numbers 23:19 assure my heart of the faithful God I serve;
" God is not man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does hee speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?"
This year brings to me a significantly different way of dealing with things. As I look back upon 2006 I'm overwhelmed. My times of reflection always lead to tears and awe at how my Savior, my God, Jesus Christ has so moved over the past year, 365 days...and how He continues to overwhelm me with Himself each day as I awaken.
For many another year has come and we're nearly 2 weeks started into the next. I don't know about you, but has it ever broken you to think about God's grace at work in your life? Have you thought about how different things would be without Him?
In April of 2004 my life changed forever. Walking through a summer of a broken family, divorce and every other issue that could throw in its two cents, I was broken and falling before the Creator of the universe, my Bestfriend in the wholewide world, the Lover of my soul, and pleading with Him, to take me as I am, committing to Him control of my life, plans and relationships. In September of that same year, I watched my family be put back together piece by piece by piece by piece by piece and my parents marriage restored. God remembered my commitment to Him and the adventure began. In this time, God told me He wanted me to go to a Christian college, to BBC in fact, He called me to counsel, He placed a man in my life that causes me to wonder everyday why I'm so blessed, and my family is whole.
This year...
In September I successfully began my college career at BBC, even making the Dean's List when marks closed in December. In April, my Daddy came home from Iraq...where he left just a few short months after our family was restored.
God has done so much and I am so unworthy, but these few, lifechanging events in my life, all promises from the LORD, have come to pass in this year. 2006 has been a time of faith for me...a time of growing in my dependency on the LORD to be abundant in my life, to be my provision, my guide, my greatest love and the center of my focus. He has overcome me with His goodness and most days I can't help but smile. He's taught me to trust Him, to take Him at His word and to hungrily chase Him for more...to draw near and to go away with Him.
The words of Numbers 23:19 assure my heart of the faithful God I serve;
" God is not man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does hee speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?"
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
5 dollar faith
I love how the LORD is constantly with me in every moment of everyday and how at times when I may not feel like He's near, He shows me and points me once again to Him.
This morning I went walking with my Mommy. The sun was beginning to poke out of the graying clouds and the streets were coated with a thick layer of muddy slush. The cold winter air pelted our faces with winds that increased with every step away from home we took.
Upon reaching the middle of town Mom and I began talking about school and an up and coming spring tour I will be partaking in for our college Chorale. I am required to raise $500;$250 by January 15th and the rest by February 28th. We had an option to place the money on our student bill and I honestly considered doing so,atleast a part of it, and then to raise the rest by way of support letters. That's when my LORD spoke, clear as day, "Christy, do you only believe I can raise a part of this money? Do you not believe I can raise all of this money?" I was moved by the clarity of His voice in my heart and declined putting the money on my spring school bill. In faith I sent out support letters and now I'm waiting,waiting for the LORD to prove faithful to His promise...just as He always does.
Mom and I reflected on this encounter and Mom told me she believed that we needed to practice faith more often in our lives and to believe that God can provide. Mom glanced over at me and said "You know what Christy, you already have $150 for this trip and God will provide the rest,who knows what surprise might be awaiting you when you get back to school. God will provide."
As soon as she breathed these words, I glanced up the sidewalk to see Mr. Abe Lincoln staring up at me, beneath a coating of snow. "Money!!!!!!" I squealed. My mittened hand reached down into the snow and removed my newly found treasure...a snow-caked $5 dollar bill.
Mom's eyes grew wide and she exclaimed,"It's a sign. No worries about raising this money Christy. There's $5.00 of faith for you. Who knows how many $5.00 bills you'll happen upon to raise this money!"
Even in the little moments, when you make a commitment to walk in faith, and forget that God always provide, He shows up. I now have $155.00 towards my trip and I trust and know God has the other $345 ready for me. Why? He is faithful, always.
This morning I went walking with my Mommy. The sun was beginning to poke out of the graying clouds and the streets were coated with a thick layer of muddy slush. The cold winter air pelted our faces with winds that increased with every step away from home we took.
Upon reaching the middle of town Mom and I began talking about school and an up and coming spring tour I will be partaking in for our college Chorale. I am required to raise $500;$250 by January 15th and the rest by February 28th. We had an option to place the money on our student bill and I honestly considered doing so,atleast a part of it, and then to raise the rest by way of support letters. That's when my LORD spoke, clear as day, "Christy, do you only believe I can raise a part of this money? Do you not believe I can raise all of this money?" I was moved by the clarity of His voice in my heart and declined putting the money on my spring school bill. In faith I sent out support letters and now I'm waiting,waiting for the LORD to prove faithful to His promise...just as He always does.
Mom and I reflected on this encounter and Mom told me she believed that we needed to practice faith more often in our lives and to believe that God can provide. Mom glanced over at me and said "You know what Christy, you already have $150 for this trip and God will provide the rest,who knows what surprise might be awaiting you when you get back to school. God will provide."
As soon as she breathed these words, I glanced up the sidewalk to see Mr. Abe Lincoln staring up at me, beneath a coating of snow. "Money!!!!!!" I squealed. My mittened hand reached down into the snow and removed my newly found treasure...a snow-caked $5 dollar bill.
Mom's eyes grew wide and she exclaimed,"It's a sign. No worries about raising this money Christy. There's $5.00 of faith for you. Who knows how many $5.00 bills you'll happen upon to raise this money!"
Even in the little moments, when you make a commitment to walk in faith, and forget that God always provide, He shows up. I now have $155.00 towards my trip and I trust and know God has the other $345 ready for me. Why? He is faithful, always.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
life in a little spiral notebook
I must say what a joy it is to be home.
There's something both wonderful and sad about home: you can leave for awhile, come back and things haven't changed. For some reason or another, this reality is bitter-sweet. Some things need to be changed and others, it's okay to stay familiar.
Last night before I tucked myself beneath the warm covers of a good-night's sleep, I was journaling and spending some time with the LORD. He brought me back over the past 10 months or so that are recorded in this particular, simple, college-ruled spiral notebook that are all filled with adventures and trials, heartaches and desires in my life. You know what the overall, ruling theme was in each one? Him. Jesus Christ has been my Strength, my Rock, my Fortress, my Redeemer, my Conscience, my Guide, my Lover, my Friend, my Shepherd, my Help in time of need, my greatest love and my LORD. To name off these particular things the Lord has been for me over the past 10 months doesn't even come close to encompassing everything...God is so faithful. God showed up in each moment, each day. He's been my joy, my peace, my patience, my everything.
It boggles my mind to think that a God so powerful, would have time for one as weak as I, one as sinful as I, one as clueless, stubborn and prideful as I. It's hard to comprehend that a God so great would ever forgive me,love me, and change me.
I'm being continually changed, each day. I'm thankful for His constant leading, for times of quiet when I'm unsure where He is or what He's doing.
I'm overwhelmed that a God so wonderful, so marvelous would grant me breath and life.
His grace is sufficient.
His blessings are abundant.
His promises never fail.
My heart desires to glorify Him in all I do.
There's something both wonderful and sad about home: you can leave for awhile, come back and things haven't changed. For some reason or another, this reality is bitter-sweet. Some things need to be changed and others, it's okay to stay familiar.
Last night before I tucked myself beneath the warm covers of a good-night's sleep, I was journaling and spending some time with the LORD. He brought me back over the past 10 months or so that are recorded in this particular, simple, college-ruled spiral notebook that are all filled with adventures and trials, heartaches and desires in my life. You know what the overall, ruling theme was in each one? Him. Jesus Christ has been my Strength, my Rock, my Fortress, my Redeemer, my Conscience, my Guide, my Lover, my Friend, my Shepherd, my Help in time of need, my greatest love and my LORD. To name off these particular things the Lord has been for me over the past 10 months doesn't even come close to encompassing everything...God is so faithful. God showed up in each moment, each day. He's been my joy, my peace, my patience, my everything.
It boggles my mind to think that a God so powerful, would have time for one as weak as I, one as sinful as I, one as clueless, stubborn and prideful as I. It's hard to comprehend that a God so great would ever forgive me,love me, and change me.
I'm being continually changed, each day. I'm thankful for His constant leading, for times of quiet when I'm unsure where He is or what He's doing.
I'm overwhelmed that a God so wonderful, so marvelous would grant me breath and life.
His grace is sufficient.
His blessings are abundant.
His promises never fail.
My heart desires to glorify Him in all I do.
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