Divine Homework

Sure, there's lots of reading, writing and 'rithmetic in Kindergarten, but it is also chock-full of life lessons. For C and us. So tonight after a few rounds of sight-word reviews and sentence writing, we pondered some of those lessons we're learning and prayed mightily over a couple of them:

First, we prayed for C's classmate, "A," who is being told by his father that God isn't real. We lifted up little "A" and his father and asked God to move upon their hearts so that they might come to know him in the way we know him and come to call him "Friend." C shared the details of his exchange with "A", which included C's emphatic statements ""A," I go to church every Sunday and I'm telling you, I know for sure God is real!" and "If you don't receive Jesus, at the end of life, you and your father will wish you had believed Him." [Wow!) I thank God for the strong witness he is creating in C. His response to "A" got the attention of an adult within earshot, who shared some things with me that we can pray specifically, for "A" and his family.

Next, we prayed for C's schoolmate whose life was taken in a tragic accident this week. C had so many questions that I struggled to answer: What is heaven like, is it better than earth? Why do accidents happen? Why do little kids die? What's so amazing is that God prepared me for this very conversation, in advance. This morning, to be exact. Take at look at my morning devotion. I shared it with C - we don't have all the answers, but we can trust God's character and know that he is good; He is in control and He is always present. Then, the Holy Spirit flooded my remembrance with many of God's promises - and I prayed every one of them. I asked God to be close to [us] the broken hearted; To grant a peace that passes all understanding; To bless those that mourn and comfort them; To work even this out for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose.

Finally, I saw a very restless, sad, inquisitive little boy release a weight, as we discussed God's presence in this and every situation. C is learning more and more about the unfailing love of the God we serve. C is seeing first-hand that we are vessels that carry God's Word to the unsaved. He will come to understand that life is not always a bed-o-roses BUT the presence of God can comfort and help us deal with the things that hurt and that we do not understand. He fell asleep so peacefully as I prayed and sang God's words, over him.

Despite our heartbreak tonight, I thank God in advance for what he is doing in our lives with each of these situations AND for allowing us (and others), to get to know Him, this way.

This Feels Weird

It has been five months to the day since I last blogged. I took a break because I simply couldn't find the time. Now I'm back, and well, I almost can't find the words. But soon enough, the two (time & words) will come together - I just know it.

As a first post, I'll sum up the last five months this way -

God is moving (I can't wait to share some of the amazing things He's done in my life over the past five months)!

Life is happening (Yes it is, you'll see).

The kids are growing (When you see the latest pics, you won't believe how they've grown. And I know I'm biased, but they are some awfully cute little guys. I'll share photos, soon).

My head is spinning (The to-do list in the "A" household still runneth over).

And last, but not least

I'm making my way back to bloggy-land to to "talk, write it out!" I can't wait to catch up.


G'night. Sleep Tight.

MY FRIEND NEEDS A MIRACLE

I posted this a couple of months ago, about my childhood friend who was diagnosed with Colon Cancer. I saw her this past weekend - her spirits are high, but the battle ahead of her is long. Please pray specifically for God to heal my friend, affectionately known as Gee Gee. Pray that HE will heal her body and use this situation to bring GLORY to HIM.

I know HE can. Pray with me, that HE will.

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Praise the Lord O my soul and forget not all HIS benefits. He who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases (Psalm 103:2-3)

You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples (Psalm 77:14)

Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, O LORD. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy. (Habakkuk 3:2)

SUMMER-ING

What are we up to these days? Oh, just summer-ing. The boys have both had their birthdays and we are now doing our summer rounds to celebrate the birthdays of many of their friends. Next stop, Water Party at 10:30 am tomorrow morning. I love that we have a little bit of freedom to kick back and enjoy the simple things. Here's just some of what's going on with the A family so far this summer:

We just returned from our vacation at the beach [Gulf Shores, AL]



It was a really a blast. We met L's family there which brought plenty of action, good conversation and fun. I will post photos (many,many photos) soon!!!

NEXT, I'm preparing to spend two days at a Resort in Illinois, as a reward for a hard year at work, in which I along with several other team members accomplished A LOT. This is my latest testimony. A testament to the total power of prayer. This time last year, I was crying out to the Lord and wondering "Is this job right for me?" "Can I be effective?" "Am I adding value/necessary?" "Will I be downsized, right-sized, or worse fired!" It was not good. BUT the God I serve IS good. And He is big and faithful and altogether awesome. I can only raise my hands and repeat my faith pledge learned from my current Beth Moore Bible Study:

1. God is who He says He is
2. God can do what He says He can do
3. I am who God says I am
4. I can do all things through Christ [who gives me strength]
5. God's Word is alive and active in me

Amen.

Also, I AM SO LIKING the spontaneity in our schedule that allows the kids to do this:


normally we make it to the crib for our after lunch nap, but summer can take the normal out of everything, right?

FINALLY, the quality time we have with them is just precious!!!

... a nice Father's Day shot

My summer to-do's include (a) Completely potty training B, (b) Continuing to enjoy our time at the Library, (c) Completing C's summer reading requirements & related activities, (d) Taking the boys swimming. Oh, and getting the boys' rooms completely ORGANIZED for our new schedule which will now include Kindergarten!

What are you up to this summer? Do.Tell.

BROKEN THEN BETTER

A few months ago one of the "slats" on a window-blind in our guest bedroom was broken. L has had it, among other things, on his "honey-do" list since that time. And as the date approached for my mother-in-law to come out for a three week visit, he was ready to address it. L originally thought it would be a simple trip to our local home improvement hub, after all, we're talking a cheapo blind that we put on all the windows in the house when we moved in four years ago. They get replaced as we pick a room to upgrade, and that room's time has not yet come. So, off he went to our local home improvement warehouse, only to discover that these particular blinds are no longer made. Well!

So after many trips for L and a joint trip to decide on a proper replacement that we both liked and that would fit on a window with rather odd dimensions,we made our selection. The set of blinds we chose, was considerably more expensive and much nicer than their predecessors. I guess you could say, we ended up doing an upgrade-by-force. And things really looked UP when we finished. It makes me glad to have had the inconvenience, that relative to the outcome, was minor.

This situation really struck a chord with me. Though, I'm speaking "blinds" and "windows" this experience sounds much like what God does in our lives - breaking and blessing. So many of our blessings and growth spurts come on the heels of broken-ness. He moves us to uncomfortable circumstances, personal valleys and weaknesses that give him the opportunity to make even greater revelations of himself, increase our measures of Faith and ultimately move us to a higher spiritual place than we were before the "break." I would say that qualifies as an "upgrade," totally.

When I look back over some of the trials in my own life, though uncomfortable and painful at the time, I am thankful for my growth, my learning, my healing, the increased measure of Faith and more-so the Almighty & Sovereign God I serve! Only through him can I become broken then better.

HI, FIVE

Well, the much anticipated age of 5 has finally arrived at our house. Last week, C turned 5 and it has been as eventful as he said it would be. So far, not a day has gone by that we didn't talk about him being 5. That's okay, I love it and him - to pieces.

It's hard to believe the little boy who made me "mommy" has grown up so fast. Really, it seems like only yesterday that my husband (who, according to my mother-in-law, once had his drivers license snatched for speeding tickets) drove only 10 mph from the hospital with this precious cargo in tow.

As you can imagine, our lives and hearts were changed forever. Yeah, there were the mounds of poopie diapers, the never ending runny noses, the bumps and bruises and the accumulation of all things BOUNCY - seats, swings, etc - but it is all worth.

Here are just a few things (well, slightly more than a few) about C that I love:

1. - He is a tremendously loving and very protective little boy.


2. - He thinks his Dad hung the moon.


3. - He thinks his mommy is very smart. (a direct quote)


4. - He thinks his Nana (my mom) is the most fabulous cook in the universe (and that's another quote).


5. - He has settled nicely into being a BIG brother (yes, it was a transition).


6. - He is the most verbal child I have ever known (and being from a HUGE family with over 35 1st cousins of my own, I have known quite a few children). His abilities to make his "case" and express his P.O.V. never cease to amaze me.


7. - He can be painfully shy at first meeting but once he warms up LOOK OUT, the child can talk.


8. - He LOVES family. Spending time with or just talking about cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents and all things family make his little eyes sparkle.


9. - Hearing him pray, absolutely melts my heart. He is getting really good at the Lord's prayer.


10. - He is festive to the core. He wants to celebrate everything. He even told me recently, that right between Mother's Day and Father's Day there should be Children's Day. Get this: he so much wanted this to be, that he discussed it with his teacher a few weeks ago, and a little girl of Turkish decent shared with them that there actually is a Children's Day celebrated in Turkey and one on the books in the United States. So he is now committed to its revival, via our house.


11. - He is learning to read and spell.


12. - He is mean on a computer.


13. - He has taken a real interest in cooking. The boy can really stir some muffin mix.


14. - He wants to be a doctor-builder-fireman-police officer-ambulance driver-cook, who plays soccer and football on the side, when he grows up.


15. - Despite his plans for football, he is becoming quite the basketball enthusiast. He begs to stay up past his bedtime and watch the NBA playoffs. L and I laughed so hard the other night when he blurted out "The other team is winning because Kobe [Bryant- LA Lakers] is NOT applying enough pressure." What? Where did he get that?


16. - He loves to sing, especially songs about Jesus.


17. - He loves books and storytelling.


18. - When he was about 2 1/2, my mother-in-law, would have her friends call to hear him talk to them about the Bible. He remembered every single story we ever read to him. It was AMAZING, really.


19. - He has a stubborn streak, but it is usually overshadowed by his sensitive,caring side.


20. - He knows I am proud to be his mom. I tell him often.

Happy 5th Birthday, Mr. C.

WAKE UP CALL

Every Wednesday morning at 6:30 am, the volunteers in our church's Youth Ministry rise and shine to come together via conference call for brief fellowship and prayer. We pray for growth and effectiveness in the ministry and for one another - sharing our individual prayer requests and praise reports. The sharing is a blessing in itself. I cannot put into words how thankful I am to God for this family of faith and the fellowship with other believers who are committed to personal spiritual growth and the growth of those around them. I feel blessed beyond measure just to be able to start my day with two things I love people and prayer.

O, how I love to talk to the Lord. I recognize prayer as a tremendous privilege and I cherish nothing more than my personal relationship with God, of which prayer is an integral part. I am currently reading The Power of Simple Prayer by Joyce Meyer and I think my thoughts & feelings on Wednesday morning can be summed up in her words:

"Prayer is a personal relationship, an intimate activity that takes place primarily between God and an individual. But as believers, we do not exist in a vacuum. We are part of God's family, we are connected to the body of Christ, and part of the power of the Christian life is found in our relationships with other people. God uses them to sharpen us, to strengthen us, to help us, to celebrate with us, to walk with us through the ups and downs of everyday life....Sometimes we pray for the people around us and sometimes we pray with them. When we pray for them, we are praying prayers of intercession, and when we pray with them, we are praying prayers of agreement....The prayer of agreement brings the power of multiplication, and the blessing of God into a situation."
- Joyce Meyer

Yes, I think that sums it up. And now a prayer:

Thank you O God, for the tremendous privilege of prayer and for your darling Son, Jesus Christ who made it possible for us to approach a Holy God and even taught us how to pray. Thank you for placing me in the midst of people whom I can encourage, and whom I can be encouraged by, as we seek collectively and individually, to grow spiritually and to have a deeper, richer relationship with you. You are an awesome, awesome God!


"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." [Matthew 18:20,KJV]

PRETTY PACKAGES

"But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things a man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7 NIV)

On Sunday afternoon we visited our local farmers market - Harry's. It's always a fun trip. We enjoy the fresh fruits and vegetables as well as the variety of other products not sold in our regular run-of-the mill grocery store. The boys get so excited when we read them all the captions about the various fruits and vegetables there, we always seem to learn something new. The boys' favorite section is the bakery and Sunday was particularly exciting, because we allowed each of them to select one thing of their choosing to take home. C was drawn to a particular wafer style cookie with brightly colored packaging, in fact, he decided fairly quickly that would be his choice. However, there was one small problem. Well, actually there were several small problems that came in the form of missing ingredients. The packaging clearly stated that the cookies C so desired excluded A LOT of the ingredients he has come to know and love. They were "free" of practically everything - gluten, wheat, eggs and dairy - just to name a few. Despite all the "free-ofs," the packaging was pure eye-candy and for C, that sealed the deal.

We engaged in a fairly lengthy conversation around the picture on the outside versus what was really on the inside. I explained as best I could on a 5-year-old-level, that things are not always what they seem and we should not make decisions based solely on what we see. Some of this he understood but mostly he decided to trust me and made another choice.

I thought of the many lessons packaged in this little "packaging" experience for C, not to mention the reinforcements that were there for me. I know we will have this conversation many times over the years ahead, though the reasons for the conversation may change, the basic lessons will remain the same. Here are just a few things I hope to impress upon C (and B), in the years God has given us to teach and train them.

1. God is concerned with the inside. We should live lives that are authentically aligned with His Holy Word. Not just ones that are well-packaged, meaning they look good on the outside and are even filled with religious exercises, yet they are void of any true pursuit of holiness.
   
   
2. Life's pretty packages, though very appealing to the eye (or ear or mind or wallet) do not always contain God's best for us. Seek the heart of God in every circumstance.
   
   
3. Trust God. Where C didn't understand the fancy words after the "free-of" claims, and I was short on simple explanations, he chose to trust me. I was prepared to let this lesson go all the way home with us, if he had stood his ground; But,it was beautiful to see his final decision hinge upon the words I had spoken to him. And I pray that this will be the same way he grows to trust God and live by FAITH even when sight (and packaging) says different.

Lord, hear my prayer.

POMP & CIRCUMSTANCE

I pinched myself and realized/accepted that the child L and I dropped off at this daycare center approximately 5 years ago, - crying and experiencing extreme separation anxiety (oh, that was Me.) - was now graduating, and we are moving on to a brand new phase of life.

It was a short, sweet, sentimental ceremony (try saying that, really fast three times). Through song they encouraged each other to stay strong and do their very best in everything. Through poetry we were reminded of all they had learned through play over their pre-school years and how they were molded in some way by each and every relationship and each and every interaction. For C I can say that he was not just "molded" or "formed," he was "enriched." Most of our experiences were positive. He was surrounded by people who genuinely loved him and spoke nothing but positive, life giving words to him since he was a baby. Now, he is a happy, smart, self-assured and tremendously loving child who makes the most of each day.

L and I were moved beyond belief and after putting the kids down on Friday night, we talked at length about the past five years. Earlier in the week, as L worked to make sure the video camera was properly powered, accessorized and ready to go we paused to watch some footage of years gone by. This was the basis of our Friday night walk down memory lane. We laughed until we cried at some things, we were misty-eyed about other things and pondered the really tough times of child rearing, so far.

The rough and tough times have been many and though they seemed so very difficult in those moments, they did not define us. In fact, today the details around some of those "low" moments have become somewhat fuzzy and it takes both of us to get ALL the details exactly right. Like: Exactly how long was he hospitalized with RSV? or When he was taken to the pediatrician's office to get that very smelly eraser fished out, was it from his ear or his nose? It turns out that it was TWO separate instances, making the correct answer "BOTH!" My, goodness!

Through it all, it was those "valley" moments that give us the wellspring of what we feel in our hearts today - appreciation, thankfulness and assurance that God is always near. Always. I remember, when C became ill and was hospitalized L's mom just happened to be visiting and she just happened to bring a good friend of their family along. When L and I were distraught that C's condition did not seem to be improving, we learned that the family friend was a mighty prayer warrior. She stood by C's bedside and prayed God's word back to Him and within hours God began to restore C's health. O, He is sovereign! Reflecting this weekend has given us joy and most importantly the right frame of mind in which to move forward: by faith and and not by sight, trusting God in every situation. No matter what hard times we face, we know that in the end they will all work together for our good and "God is so much God," that he can reduce mountains to mere "fuzzy" memories and minor bumps in the road so we can focus on the joy in our journey.


"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)

ZOO (IN A GOOD WAY)

Last Friday was THE Zoo - literally ....

This Friday will be A Zoo - figuratively, as we kick off another activity filled weekend and I'm not complaining one bit, in fact I'm looking forward to every thing in the "line-up." I would not wish to trade out one single.solitary. event. So, even though I refer to it as a "zoo," I mean that in the best kind of way. We will see and do lots of different things - all priceless and exciting:

Friday night is C's Pre-K graduation. O, how my heart melts! This is truly a watershed event for our family. Over the past several months, everything (energy, effort, activities, everything) - has flowed into this moment and over the next several months all things will flow out of this milestone. C's age and grade (Kindergarten/5) makes him "eligible" for lots of new things - church choir, city league football and who knows what else. We're excited but it is bittersweet I tell you, just bittersweet. I have stocked up on tissues, for tomorrow and the months to come. Most of the ceremony will be a surprise to the parents but I've had the pleasure of hearing C practice a few of the songs around the house and I tear up EVERY time. He is really growing up and it was a fast five years!

Saturday I will be Mistress of Ceremony of a Women's Tea at a dear friends church. The theme: Women of Many Hats. Everyone is wearing a hat, this could be like the Christian Kentucky Derby(what fun!!!)> The scripture focus is Titus 2. Talk about excited. I can't wait to fellowship with a room full of women on Biblical Womanhood, Balance and Discipleship, Intentional Living, Spiritual Integrity and the overall Pursuit of Holiness in the most practical areas of our lives as outlined in the Word of God. I expect that our hearts will be truly blessed.

Sunday I begin my very first Kay Arthur precepts class with a small study group at our church. We will be embarking on an inductive Bible Study of the book of Leviticus. I cannot wait to behold the wonders of HIS great law.

That's what's going on with us and as I prepare my heart is thankful.

Thank you Lord for the many wonders you have placed in my life. The gift of two beautiful children and a wonderful husband to me and father to them, who actively expresses his love for us each and every day. I thank you for the friends you have placed in my life who love you with all their hearts and like me, are chasing after you. I thank you for my church - this great family of faith - some of whom I will connect with on Sunday to begin a study of your decrees and commandments, so that we might know your more and come closer each day to living lives that uncompromisingly align with your Word. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1 Thessalonians 5:18, KJV)

SOME BUNNY'S BLOGGING AGAIN

Yes, it's me, trying to get back into my old and very favorite routine - blogging. So, without further delay, I'll jump right in...

Today can be best described as just awesome! This RESURRECTION SUNDAY found me with a changed direction in my life - saved, set free and living for the Lord, needless to say, it was pretty special.

Me, L and the kids joined our dear friends (the L family) for an Easter Celebration at their church. It was a casual dress, spirit filled service, followed by an Easter egg hunt, a variety of outdoor activities and dinner, to boot. Might I add - dinner was um-um good. And yes, we got all this in one place. I guess that's why they called it The Easter Eggstravaganza. I toted the camera along, but there was just a ton of activity and as it turned out, I needed both hands to manage two very busy and super-excited little boys. I'm sorry to say I didn't get photos.

In the absence of pictures, imagine if you will, what it might have been like with a large group of Christians celebrating the rising of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ, along with lots of plastic eggs stuffed full of the kids' favorite sugary treats. Can't you just see the FUN?

All week my soul has been filled with an indescribable JOY. I have been super-sensitive to what this day means and just in constant prayers of thanksgiving for God's great love. As I wandered in the grocery store after work on Tuesday, I saw a very frustrated mother standing outside her minivan, talking to her obviously out of chances child, "That's it!," she yelled "Easter is cancelled!" Oh, my! You just don't know, how I began thanking God (right there in the parking lot) that he was not like man. I'm sure that mother had every right to be frustrated and oh, I so know how our children can "take us there," but (as Romans 5:8 tells us) even while we were yet sinners - temper tantrums, bad behavior and all - Christ died for us! Thank God He didn't get frustrated with us and really cancel Easter! Even as they nailed Him to the cross, Jesus Christ cried out a prayer of forgiveness "Forgive them father, they know not what they do!" (Luke 23:34) I'm just glad Easter wasn't cancelled (did I say that already?).

As I stirred around this week getting ready for our fun-filled weekend, I kept a song in my heart. By the way, our weekend included:

(1) The Easter parade at the boys' school on Friday:

(2) A fun family outing with the C family on Saturday - L and I have known Mr. and Mrs. C long before either of us were married or had young'uns and here we are, going on family outings with four of them. WOW! God is good.

(3) - Last but not least - the big celebration today.

Anyway, while preparing for all of this, there is one song in particular that I have sung, hummed and meditated on non-stop, we sang it at my church growing up and you may know it too:

"Because He lives I can face tomorrow. Because He lives all fear is gone. Because I know, He holds the future, And life is worth the living just because He lives!"

I really love this first verse:

"God sent his Son, they called him Jesus. He came to love heal and forgive. He lived and died to buy my pardon, An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives."

There are many different renditions (country, contemporary, etc..) and here is a short sample of R&B artist Fantasia, singing it the way we did.

WE INTERRUPT THIS

Program To Say ...

A few weeks ago in a team meeting, I was part of an ice-breaker exercise in which we were asked to share our most embarrassing moment. Immediately, my mind was flooded with flashbacks of things the boys have done and SAID over the past couple of years. Like the time we were out to dinner and C decided to debate me openly in the presence of our short-haired waitress, as to whether or not she was a girl or a boy! It was then that I realized he had never seen a woman with really short hair. And now, I have yet another embarrassing moment to add to my repertoire, this time it was B.

At the end of our vacation we sat at the airport, awaiting the departure of our 5:30 am flight back home. B retreated to a dark corner to do his “dirty” work. When he finished, I retrieved him and we held hands (and noses) as we sang our ABC’s, heading towards the nearest changing table! Upon our return to the gate area little B decided to make the following public service announcement: “Hey! I boo-boo in my pull-yup.” He really got a lot of sleepy people laughing.

While not entirely sure, I’d like to think he was mostly proud of the fact that even after that messy mess; he was now "all clean qween." If that is true, then maybe, just maybe, I can relate to his excitement.

Not so long ago, I was living in a messy-mess myself. A life steeped in pride, gossip, lies, bouts of depression, a perverse mouth - just to name a few. And like B, I'm pretty proud to be clean; washed in the Blood of Jesus. Still a work-in-progress, I love to share how the wonderful, mighty love of God has already delivered and set me free, from much. Even though I was out of HIS will I was not out of HIS reach. And like B, I tell it whenever I can, wherever I am, to whoever will listen!

I'm reminded of a favorite Psalm - David's prayer and plea for cleansing & forgiveness. Tonight I'll share a portion:

"Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow....Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."(Psalm 51:6-7, 10)

G'DAY MATE. I'M BACK.

Hi there! I've found my way back here after a blog-less and much needed vacation. We spent a few days visiting this very gorgeous girl:


R is technically my little sister, however, at 6'1" she is, as C says, "way much bigger than me." That is precisely the reason I am affectionately known as the little big sister to her and my younger, also bigger, brother T. Anyway, R is tall, beautiful, fun, smart as a whip and plays a mean game of college HOOPS, which we had a mighty fun time watching. Next to my parents, here are her #1 fans:




I spent this weekend loving the LORD for his divine creation called family and I am going to spend the next couple of days enjoying this "rested" feeling I have (it will surely have worn off by Thursday). Oh yeah, and I'll spend some more time getting back in my groove here on the blog. We have a lot of catching up to do.

A HEAVY HEART

Last night I learned that a dear childhood friend was diagnosed with cancer. I have never known a cancer diagnosis NOT be a hard thing to hear, however this is particularly difficult because GiGi is 37 years young. She is a wife and also "mommy" to a darling toddler.

Ge Gee and her family live in Texas and I don't get there very often so I don't see her much, but every time we are able to spend time together, though brief, it is like we talked only yesterday; You just never lose those childhood connections. I am crying out to the Lord for her and I covet your prayers for GiGi and her family.

There is NOTHING too hard for the Lord and we will believe HIM for healing.

G'night

NEW YEAR NEW YOU - PRAY IN FAITH II

Praying for a spiritual awakening in China, this year.

A little background:

Today L and I joined C and his classmates on a field trip to a local Chinese restaurant. We were there to celebrate the Chinese New Year. It was fun and the children were really pumped, they have looked forward to this for a while. The food was average but being in the company of curious and very verbal 4 and 5 olds was just priceless. Some were turned off by the “ugly orange” sauce on perfectly good "chicken nuggets" while others openly shared their disdain for “yun-nions in the rice,” that's onions in the rice. And then there was the group who just wanted to celebrate their ability to find new and unintended uses for chopsticks. It was so much fun!

As for the chopsticks, C and I wanted so badly to get it right …



Here, C and Dad posed after a successful attempt (1 of 100) at picking up a nice chunk of chicken. They felt like true Olympians.



Since China was on my palette and my mind I was moved to say a prayer for that country today. Somehow I knew that China was NOT a country that embraced Christianity. However, I did a little research this afternoon and was surprised by the specifics. Here are a few of the things I learned:

¹ China has a population of approximately 1.4 Billion. The current number of Christians (though said to be increasing rapidly) ranges from 70 million to 130 million, representing a mere 5-9% of the total population. The disparity in the numbers (70m versus 130m) is driven by fear. Many Christians in China are not open about their faith and practice it underground due to a persistent attitude of intolerance.

² The Chinese government is officially atheist. However, China is often characterized by pluralism – having many different religions. Buddhism is the largest organized religion.

³ The Chinese government limits the amount of churches in Beijing and other cities forcing many Christians to meet in house churches, which gives them the advantage of being away from the glare of the Communist Party. However, they still must register with police, avoid neighborly confrontation (which can be loosely defined) and keep their congregation size low (the maximum is 25) – only then are they tolerated - "grudgingly." Still others make the choice to be completely “underground” and risk arrest to practice their faith.

⁴ China caps the number of Bibles that can be printed each year

Learning all this was enough to get me pleading God’s promises on behalf of my sisters and brothers in Christ, in the Peoples Republic of China, who even through trial seek to serve the True and Living God.

Heavenly Father, I pray for the people of China. Though the numbers of those who believe in the way, the truth and the life is growing there, let this New Year bring greater acceptance of you, Lord. I pray a special prayer from my sisters and brothers in Christ who are not able to worship you openly and risk persecution for professing their faith. Place a hedge of protection around these sisters and brothers so that no weapons formed against them prosper. Father, I know you are the same yesterday, today and forever. You changed the hearts of Kings in Babylon so that the temple could be rebuilt in Jerusalem. You changed the heart of Saul, who murdered those who preached the WAY and you in your almighty power can change the hearts of men in China so that you are exalted among ALL nations and in ALL the earth. I ask this in the name of your darling son Jesus, Amen.

Please pray for Christians in China.

One additional note: This was a VERY exciting trip for C. His classroom is very diverse he has classmates from almost every corner of the globe (one from Turkey, one from Puerto Rico, one from China and one from Pakistan) He wondered aloud a few weeks ago, if his friends went to church to learn about Jesus, he informed me that he was “getting ready to ask ‘em.” He also loves to travel. I have never seen one kid get more excited about going to the airport or seeing a plane! I talked to him about one day traveling to tell others about Jesus and his eyes lit up. I think I see mission trips in our future. I just know God is going to use him in a mighty way!!!

A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

For the first time in at least 4 1/2 years, I attended a birthday celebration that did NOT include Chuck E. Cheese, Bouncy Houses or little people "hopped up" on sugar. This celebration was far more subdued, but no less meaningful and fun for me; Today our church turned 80 years old. Happy Birthday Elizabeth Baptist!

We viewed a From Then to Now, style short film looking at the church history from its humble beginnings with only three members up through today at 11,000 members strong. The majority of that growth occurring under the leadership of our current Pastor, Craig L. Oliver, Sr. It has been an amazing journey. As was today's theme - "A Journey of Faith."

The most moving parts of the short film were the personal testimonies of members who shared their experiences of total spiritual transformation since joining Elizabeth. I wrote about my own spiritual makeover in this post. The leadership at this great church has made spiritual authenticity their charge, literally.

Pastor Oliver is a visionary (to say the least) who believes deeply in the church's mission "To lovingly lead the lost into a relationship with Jesus Christ and develop mature believers." His journey alone - Youth Minister to Mega Church Leader and profound spiritual motivator/encourager - is evidence of the pure power of God's favor. So, in the spirit of continued advancement towards our church & personal goals, L and I will be participating with the entire church body in the following activities Pastor "O" outlined today:

¹ Read the Bible In A Year [starting today] "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4, KJV)

² Internal Spiritual Audit [A Sermon & Study Series]

³ [A Personal] Journey of Faith [A Sermon & Study Series]

I look forward to growing alongside this awesome family of faith in which God has placed us. HE has answered my fervent prayers.

FLY THIS PLANE

While in the doctor's office the other day I read this quote:

"When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, TRUST HIM fully. Only one of two things will happen, either HE will catch you when you fall, or HE will teach you how to fly."

Speaking of flying, later in the week, I ran across this:


This photo (I just love it!), captured a moment in which we were on an un-crowded flight and got the chance to "plop" C in the Co-pilot chair for a photo-opp. The Pilot began talking to him about all the instruments and how to fly the plane, as if he really expected him to do it! The expression on his face says that C was very overwhelmed.

I have been thinking lately, about how God calls us out of our comfort zone to do the work he has planned for us and it can feel a lot like being told we're going to have to FLY THE PLANE. But the Holy Spirit reminds me that HE has plans; plans that say HE will "show up and take care of you." ¹ I love this Word from the Lord spoken by Jeremiah to the exiles of Jerusalem. When the exiles were told that they would be led out of Babylon after seventy years of captivity the Lord (through Jeremiah) told them this:

"I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."(Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)

I too was led from captivity, freed from the bondage of sin; Not to be on the sidelines but to actively work in ministry and boldly witness of HIS goodness and grace. And by the way, I am learning that if I just follow HIM, the landings are much smoother. And after My Heavenly Pilot has guided me safely through, I'll be doing this:









¹ Jeremiah 29:11, The Message

FABULOUS FINDS FRIDAY

Trin.ket [tring-kit] - a small showy ornament, usually of little monetary value, but of great sentimental value. Known to cause tremendous excitement and enjoyment for us girly girls!

One of my favorite things to do is shop for little trinkets. I pick them up everywhere. I'd like to use Fridays, here on the blog, to share my weekly "find" with all of you. Also, at the end of this post (using Mr. Linky) enter your name followed by a link to your very own Fabulous Finds Friday post.

This week's Fabulous Find is a beautiful line of bookmarks (Family Christian Stores). The vibrant colors and scripture inscriptions add quite a flair to Bible Study time!

JOS 24:15, MAKE YOUR CHOICE

We have several things on our dance card this weekend and as it draws near, we have begun to discuss which of those things we might actually attend. A couple of our options involved travel and were easy to eliminate because they could cause C to miss a much anticipated field trip on Monday.

Even though our travel options could bring about a "near miss," at best, for an event that C has long looked forward to, he had a little trouble understanding why we couldn't just do everything. His confusion led to a rather long discussion and a fun exercise on making choices. Pretty quickly, he was up to speed and was even able to give Dad a simple definition of "choice," at dinner this evening - "you just pick one thing."

As I marveled at how quickly he "got it," I thought about the life filled with choices awaiting both C and B. For sure, it won't always be as easy as it was tonight. I would say it's never too early to start practicing and never to early to pray. I'm thankful we had the chance to start tonight. This is my prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for the gifts you have given us in C and B. Help us to train them in your WORD, so when they are older - and must make choices independent of our input - they will not depart from it. Give us strength as we live out your teachings before them. Help us guide them not just "with word or tounge; but in deed and truth." Mold C and B in your image. Lord. When they find themselves at the crossroads of life (right versus wrong, good versus evil, moral versus immoral) I pray that the Holy Spirit bring back to their remembrance all that they have been taught, and they make the choice that represents YOU!

Afterwards, I gave myself a refresher course on CHOICES. I felt the need to review scripture and reaffirm the importance of HIS word when we reach that frequent point of "DECIDE." Here are few of my favorites:

Everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good but the good of others (1 Corinthians 10:23-24, NIV)

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you, do not turn from it right or left, that you may be successful wherever you go. (Joshua 1:7, NIV)

Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil (Proverbs 4:26-27, NIV)

But you man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness (1 Timothy 6:11, NIV)

...Then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve .... But as for me and my house we will serve the LORD. (Joshua 24:15, NIV)

DREAMS FROM MY FATHER

Today marks the inauguration of our 44th president, Barack Obama. It was a time of reflection for me. Not on the man or the inaugural ceremonies, but on the Body of Christ. I will share, however, that only a few short months ago, while visiting the pumpkin patch with C, we ran across this: rows of cotton growing in the fields.


At that time, I reflected for a brief moment on slavery and racism, on the hurts and the ugly scars they have left on our country. Then, my thoughts turned towards thanksgiving that so many Americans have united and moved forward together. President Obama symbolizes that progress. BUT today, President Obama is not my foucs. With my thoughts towards Heaven, it is my earnest prayer that these historic events turn hearts, ALL hearts - that includes Obama, his supporters, his opponents and the whole-world-over - NOT towards man and his past accomplishments or future intentions, but towards God.

I was reminded in my meditation this morning that God is in all things, that government stands on HIS shoulders ¹ and that while Obama may put his best foot forward to do what he thinks is right...many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that will prevail ². I pray the enthusiasm that surrounds Obama today will surround our Lord and Savior who has already done and will continue to do immeasurably more than all that we could ask or imagine. ³

Obama faces huge challenges and though confidence in him is high (69%) it is yet to be determined whether or not he will rise to the occasion and successfully meet those challenges. On the other hand, God’s track record is spotless; there has never been anything too big for him. With the sheer power of HIS Word, HE spoke all things into existence. ⁴ HE owns the cattle on a thousand hills ⁵ and has never been in a recession, a mortgage crisis or a melt-down of any sort, in fact, HE is able to make all grace abound and provide all needs at all times for every good work ⁶. I find myself in the midst of all the excitement, wanting to defend and campaign and to use political speak, re-ignite the base of the body of Christ so that we experience this same exhilaration, hope and faith in our precious Lord and Savior. How I pray that no matter what the Obama administration carries forth God will gain glory and HIS Kingdom will reap a mighty harvest!

It is likely that the book by Barack Obama, - "Dreams from my Father - will fly off the shelves. I pray the same happens for the book that God Almighty provided -The Holy Bible - and today I, for one, have a renewed passion for it. A a passion to immerse myself in scripture, looking closely at the Dreams From My Heavenly Father and pleading his promises:

"If my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.⁷"


I want to live the dream he had for me in Deuteronomy 11:18-21, NIV:

“Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the Lord swore to give your forefathers, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.”

I am in prayer today for our world, our nation, our leaders and the church. I pray that we will experience a renewed and unprecedented motivation to do for God what MILLIONS are doing today for our new President elect. I pray that we will elect God and him alone as the Lord of our lives and that upon HIS call we will travel from far and near to spread HIS message of hope; That we will put our faith, expectation and confidence wholeheartedly in HIM, that we will get excited and motivated, that we will excite and motivate others and finally write the Dreams From our Heavenly Father on our hearts and hold fast to his many, many promises!

WILL YOU JOIN ME?

Scripture references:
¹ Isaiah 9:6
² Proverbs 19:21
³ Ephesians 3:20
⁴ Genesis 1
⁵ Psalm 50:10
⁶ 2 Corinthians 9:8
⁷ 2 Chronicles 7:14-15

PRAY IN FAITH

Pray for baby Harper and children that need healing, everywhere.


click button to read Harper's story
"The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up....." James 5:15

PRECIOUS LITTLE MEMORIES

Today was particularly stressful. It's cold (... even had a few snow flurries here.) and we stayed inside the entire day. Needless to say, we are ALL stir crazy! The boys were WILD and I lost my patience a few times, requring the use of my deep "Mommy is a Drill Sergeant" voice. They don't like that, but I had to regain control.

Tonight I am winding down ... saying my prayers, looking at precious baby photos and thinking happy thoughts in preparation for a possible repeat tomorrow.

STILL WORTH SHARING

Said another way, this is a "better late than never" post. I've missed posting more than a few good things over the past months. I would've loved to have shared them had ear infection, school play, busy day, car trouble, or just plain tired not happened, but who says all is lost, not me. I decided today to start posting those things anyway, even if they did happen three days or weeks or months ago, 'cuz I think they're still worth sharing... So a full three weeks after the fact, here is what I would've posted Christmas Day:

On Christmas Eve we baked cookies and left them out for Santa. C loved this.



B, who fell asleep very early was roused from his slumber by the smell of something baking and this happened....

Oh,my!

Our Christmas dinner was fabulous, right down to my mother-in-laws sweet potato pie recipe. My fondest memory is the special prayer C said at mealtime.



As far as pictures of the boys opening their gifts (they were sooooo excited), we don't have many, Dad used the video camera so I didn't use the camera much(oops!). By the time I realized it and tried to get a photoshoot going, all I got was this ....



Along with some great video and awesome memories !!!

F A S T E.R.

This is a literal description of my day. I’ll start with the “fast.” Yesterday I began a 21 day FAST. There are many things I am believing God for and I am seeking HIS heart on many others, so I decided to do the 21 day Daniel Fast (mostly fruits and vegetables, with a few other things). Yesterday was rough, I didn’t plan this out too well and going off a “word of mouth” list of what you can and can’t eat, left me feeling very limited in my meal choices. Actually, I probably consumed too few calories, causing much irritability and frustration. However, God gave me the strength to make it through the day (and night) without breaking and this morning he sent me an angel.

It all started when I shared a piece of fruit with a co-worker (M) who forgot his breakfast. M felt terrbile about taking my orange, and almost refused. I assured him it was okay because I had plenty other fruits, casually commenting that I was fasting. M responded “Oh C is fasting too.” So we summoned C to my desk and it turned out that he is doing the same fast with his church. C had a well organized list of things you can eat, an electronic recipe book of dishes you can easily prepare and a scripture and prayer to start each day. C is on day 16 and really encouraged me to rely on the Lord for strength and press on! I mean C was the vessel that God used to “lay it all out” for me. I know Satan did not want me to succeed (or even start for that matter) but literally, the Lord, my shepherd prepared a table before me in the presence of the enemy (Psalm 23) and today was a breeze! God is so good!

Now for the “E.R.” part. I received a call from the kids’ school this afternoon; to inform me that B (who has an ear infection) had a little discharge from his ear when he woke up from naptime. “A little discharge,” was an understatement. I don’t want to be too graphic here, so I'll just say that when I arrived to pick him up, his cot-sheet looked like a crime scene. I rushed him to urgent care, called L in tears and after and very emotional hour the diagnosis and prognosis were good. B has a middle-ear infection and with the tubes he received in October, the infection was able to drain right out – apparently it happens. We received a prescription for a round of antibiotics and were off to the races.

Despite all the horror scenarios that ran through my mind, God did not agree with one of them. Thankfully, there is no damage to his eardrum and we see the Ear Nose and Throat Specialist (E.N.T.) tomorrow for a follow up. Pray and agree with us that the findings of the E.N.T. will be consistent with the great news we ALL HEARD tonight.

RESTING COMFORTABLY

Granny visited from Texas this week and was kind enough to provide babysitting while Dad and I headed out for date night, both Friday and Saturday (whoo hoo!). The boys rested so well. Normally, we hire a sitter and both C and B are awake when we return, no matter how late. But, not this weekend. It's something about being in the comfortable and sure care of Granny that made them feel just fine going "sleepy -time." In fact they didn't even make it up to their bedrooms, they conked out right there on the sofa. Seeing them resting so peacefully when we returned last night, warmed my heart and reminded me of one of my favorite scriptures.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28, KJV)

Nothing else gives me the comfort I have of putting everything in the Lord's hands and just resting in him. I just have that supernatural peace that passes all understanding. Oh, I know how they feel.

O HAVE MERCY

(Happy New Year!)

This morning C ran into the kitchen, irritated and upset, to ask me if “I could put B in trouble.” Translated, that meant he wanted me to place his little brother in time-out for a behavior that he decided was offensive. B has a little cold and has been having some bad days. Lately, his noise level and whiney-ness has frustrated C who, this morning, was really trying to "con-sun-straight" on something. I immediately thought of one of the first teachings of Christ – The Beatitudes. Specifically, “Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy.” (Matthew 5:7, NIV)

C and I talked and I asked him to show a little kindness to his brother. I asked him to think of all the times he makes noise and mommy doesn’t “get him in trouble,” but gives him lots and lots of chances. We talked about the times he plays the piano while I’m on the phone with Nana, or sings really loud while I watch television or how he sometimes cranks up his remote control car when daddy and I are talking. We decided that he would just play something else for a little while so he wouldn’t have his “con-sun-straight-chun” broken again. I’m so glad the Holy Spirit nudges and reminds me to make the most of these teachable moments. When I had time to settle down this afternoon, I read a few passages on mercy.

I love the clarity of Luke 6:37-38 in The Message:

"Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, and criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don't condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you'll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting is the way. Generosity begets generosity."

I think mercy is our God-given theme this weekend. Yesterday, as I sat at a red light in some pretty nasty fog and rain I was rear-ended. An extremely apologetic older gentleman jumped out of the car and immediately began giving me his insurance and personal information. Only a few short months ago, I probably would have had some not so kind words for what I would've have seen only as the dude that rear-ended my nice new mini-van, but the Holy Spirit allowed me to see a real person who made a mistake, a grandfather who proudly wore the pictures of his grandson on his t-shirt and through conversation I learned, was rushing to the hospital to see a sick relative. Right there, The Holy Spirit also reminded me of the Lords mercies towards me and brought back to my rememberance (John 14:26) my memory scripture from a couple of weeks ago, which was Lamentations 3:22-23:

“Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”

Not by my own power, but through Christ that lives in me I had compassion for this man and learned of the many reasons he could have been distracted at that moment. Besides, only a few minutes prior, I came just inches shy of rear-ending the vehicle in front of me in that same slippery spot.

Again today, I was reminded of God’s command for us to show mercy. Most days it’s not in a car accident (thankfully) but rather the fast food drive-thru, the long line at the grocery store or the telephone with a less than “engaged” customer service representative, that I find myself called to show mercy. I hope the lessons of today and yesterday will serve as reminders for me to be as compassionate towards others as God has been towards me.