Once upon a time....I didn't know that Ethiopia, a country that's smaller than twice the size the state of Texas, was home to 5,000,000 orphans. FIVE MILLION.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that, in Ethiopia, one in ten children will die before their first birthday; one in six before they're 5.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that the average life expectancy in Ethiopia is 49 years old.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that, due to malnutrition, 50% of Ethiopian children have stunted growth; malnutrition is the underlying cause of more than half of all child deaths.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that, in Ethiopia, there is 1 physician for every 34,988 people.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that the literacy rate in Ethiopia was 36%.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that only 22% of Ethiopians have access to safe water.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that the average ANNUAL income in Ethiopia was $180.00; I didn't know that the country ranks in the bottom 7% globally in annual per capita income.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that only 26% of Ethiopian children will ever go to secondary school. Actually, only half will ever attend school at all.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that over 575,000 children have been orphaned due to the AIDS-related deaths of one or both of their parents.
But I know now.
Once upon a time....I didn't know that there are as many as 150,000 orphaned children living on the streets in Ethiopia.
But I know now.
I didn't know that there were people, like those in Korah, who live in and out of a trash dump. I didn't know that they were shoeless, diaperless and hungry. But I know now. And now that I know, I have a responsibility. What does that look like? I'm not 100% certain. We do everything that we can. To start, we make prayer for the people of Ethiopia a priority. We keep our eyes, our ears and our hearts open to what He would have us to do. It means that we do things to assist (financially and otherwise); whether it be through an organization like Ordinary Hero, Project 61, Compassion International or a family who is in the process of adopting; it means that we make others aware so that they too become responsible to do something. We hope, we pray, we encourage, we help.
I suspect that God will throw some doors WIDE OPEN for us on my upcoming trip. I look forward with hopeful anticipation and complete awe to having my heart broken a little (or A LOT) more for what breaks His.
ONCE OUR EYES ARE OPENED, WE CANNOT PRETEND WE DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO. GOD, WHO WEIGHS OUR HEARTS AND KEEPS OUR SOULS KNOWS AND HOLDS US RESPONSIBLE TO ACT. Proverbs 24:12
Showing posts with label God speaks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God speaks. Show all posts
Monday, April 18, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Why?
I've been asked recently, questions like this:
Why do you feel the need to go?
Why are you going?
How did you get to this place?
And, in all honesty, I've even heard......
What in the hell are you thinking?
So I thought I'd share.......
In a nutshell, God has (for several years), placed a conviction upon my heart regarding the orphan. I have struggled at times knowing how I am to answer that call as my husband didn't necessarily have the same convictions. That matters because all I could think of to do to help an orphan was to adopt one (silly me) and, obviously, if your husband's not on board, it's not a good idea. In all seriousness, Jeff and I have always believed (and preached to others) that God would not divide a marriage.....ever.....by telling one spouse to do something that he doesn't also tell the other to do. So I'd go on feeling the weight of needing to do something and every so often I'd mention it to Jeff who would remind me that he didn't feel called to adopt. We would agree to pray about it and move on.
I'm somewhat of a slow learner, apparently; but eventually I realized that I had to do something.....something that I could do on my own (seeing how it was my conviction and all). In the beginning, that something was reading and becoming informed (of the orphan crisis, of statistics and solutions, of stories and ideas). I began to make donations to families who were fundraising for their own adoptions and/or purchasing products from organizations that benefitted the orphan crisis in some way.
The more that I read and the more that I learned, the more my heart hurt.
Eventually, I was no longer randomly giving via links on the internet (oh I still do that too but it became more personal) but, through some of what I believe to be God-ordained meetings, began to develop some personal relationships with people who were/are more involved in the cause than I. Some of those, I shared here.
Long story short, God's word says that He will care for the orphan and the widow. It also says that His people are His arms and feet. I desire, for this one week, to BE has hands and feet in Ethiopia and see where He leads from there.
Why do you feel the need to go?
Why are you going?
How did you get to this place?
And, in all honesty, I've even heard......
What in the hell are you thinking?
So I thought I'd share.......
In a nutshell, God has (for several years), placed a conviction upon my heart regarding the orphan. I have struggled at times knowing how I am to answer that call as my husband didn't necessarily have the same convictions. That matters because all I could think of to do to help an orphan was to adopt one (silly me) and, obviously, if your husband's not on board, it's not a good idea. In all seriousness, Jeff and I have always believed (and preached to others) that God would not divide a marriage.....ever.....by telling one spouse to do something that he doesn't also tell the other to do. So I'd go on feeling the weight of needing to do something and every so often I'd mention it to Jeff who would remind me that he didn't feel called to adopt. We would agree to pray about it and move on.
I'm somewhat of a slow learner, apparently; but eventually I realized that I had to do something.....something that I could do on my own (seeing how it was my conviction and all). In the beginning, that something was reading and becoming informed (of the orphan crisis, of statistics and solutions, of stories and ideas). I began to make donations to families who were fundraising for their own adoptions and/or purchasing products from organizations that benefitted the orphan crisis in some way.
The more that I read and the more that I learned, the more my heart hurt.
Eventually, I was no longer randomly giving via links on the internet (oh I still do that too but it became more personal) but, through some of what I believe to be God-ordained meetings, began to develop some personal relationships with people who were/are more involved in the cause than I. Some of those, I shared here.
Long story short, God's word says that He will care for the orphan and the widow. It also says that His people are His arms and feet. I desire, for this one week, to BE has hands and feet in Ethiopia and see where He leads from there.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Long Time No See
It's been two months since my last post.
And though I'd like to be able to say something like, "where did the time go?" or "how did that happen?"; the truth is that I've been very aware of not posting. Time didn't slip away. I didn't forget. It wasn't that I had nothing to say.
It's simple really. The more that I learn that someone is actually reading my blog, the more anxious I become in writing. To quote a sweet friend: In writing my thoughts here, I often feel as if I'm "standing in front of you wearing only my underwear". Shiver.
I've spent many years on the surface but, of late (the last couple of years really), God has me going deeper and deeper and I love and praise Him for that but, at the same time, I am not secure enough in myself to hash them out publicly.
Sure...my blog could be about "surface" events. It could be just a decorating blog or just a blog about my kids or, for pete's sake, what I ate for lunch. But that's not where I am and so, my blog, it has some catching up to do. It's having an identity crisis of sorts.
In the meantime, my kids are awesome. They amaze me each day as I've come to realize that they are young men. I'm thankful to be their Mom. They're as individual as they can be and I love that about them.
And, my husband, he's amazing too! He's back in school...getting his MBA at Vanderbilt. I'm very proud of him.
I'm ready to drag out the Fall decor for my home....I love Fall ! (Is that surface enough for you?)
And my Savior? Well, He's something else. I just began the study of Esther and these are some things that have spoken to me:
And though I'd like to be able to say something like, "where did the time go?" or "how did that happen?"; the truth is that I've been very aware of not posting. Time didn't slip away. I didn't forget. It wasn't that I had nothing to say.
It's simple really. The more that I learn that someone is actually reading my blog, the more anxious I become in writing. To quote a sweet friend: In writing my thoughts here, I often feel as if I'm "standing in front of you wearing only my underwear". Shiver.
I've spent many years on the surface but, of late (the last couple of years really), God has me going deeper and deeper and I love and praise Him for that but, at the same time, I am not secure enough in myself to hash them out publicly.
Sure...my blog could be about "surface" events. It could be just a decorating blog or just a blog about my kids or, for pete's sake, what I ate for lunch. But that's not where I am and so, my blog, it has some catching up to do. It's having an identity crisis of sorts.
In the meantime, my kids are awesome. They amaze me each day as I've come to realize that they are young men. I'm thankful to be their Mom. They're as individual as they can be and I love that about them.
And, my husband, he's amazing too! He's back in school...getting his MBA at Vanderbilt. I'm very proud of him.
I'm ready to drag out the Fall decor for my home....I love Fall ! (Is that surface enough for you?)
And my Savior? Well, He's something else. I just began the study of Esther and these are some things that have spoken to me:
- There is as much to learn about God by where He does not make himself obvious as when He does. Just because you don't see Him, doesn't mean He's not there.
- You seek HIM and his will will find you.
- We must learn to trust His providence even when the Red Sea doesn't part.
- And....just in case you're thinking that He would choose (and use) anyone but you, see Esther.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Don't be a Chicken, a Pig or a Cow !!!!
Without revealing someone's personal struggles, I can not tell the exact details about the receipt of this little story (below). Just to summarize, I was, at the very moment it was received, sitting in a parking lot waiting to meet someone who was willing to help out another someone who they didn't really even know. It was a family member of my own who was, as a favor to me and, MOST IMPORTANTLY, (if I know him like I think I know him) to bring glory to God's name who answered the call to assist someone with a great need and no means to meet it at the time. As I sat waiting to meet this family member and take him to the proper location, I received the story below in an email. I am so thankful to this person (you know who you are) for putting aside everything (personal feelings, time restraints, his own "to-do" list, etc.) to help someone out. It is in those times, when we simply answer the call, that we can be the hands and feet of Jesus to someone. Yet how often do we see a need and turn our heads thinking perhaps that someone else will handle it or, like the chicken, the pig or the cow, just decide that it's not our problem.
A Mouse Story With A Moral
A mouse looked through the crack
in the wall to see the farmer and
his wife open a package.
What food might this contain?'
The mouse wondered - - -
he was devastated to discover it
was a mousetrap.
Retreating to the farmyard,
the mouse proclaimed the warning :
There is a mousetrap in the house!
There is a mousetrap in the house!'
The chicken clucked and scratched,
raised her head and said,
'Mr.Mouse, I can tell this is a grave concern
to you, but it is of no consequence
to me.I cannot be bothered by it.'
The mouse turned to
the pig and told him,
'There is a mousetrap in the house!
There is a mousetrap in the house!'
The pig sympathized, but said, I am
so very sorry, Mr.Mouse, but there
is nothing I can do about it but pray.
Be assured you are in my prayers.'
The mouse turned to
the cow and said
'There is a mousetrap in the house!
There is a mousetrap in the house!'
The cow said, 'Wow, Mr. Mouse.
I'm sorry for you, but it's no skin
off my nose.'
So, the mouse returned to the
house, head down and dejected,
to face the farmer's mousetrap . . .
alone.
That very night a sound was heard throughout
the house -- like the sound of a mousetrap catching
its prey.
The farmer's wife rushed to see
what was caught. In the darkness,
she did not see it was a venomous
snake whose tail the trap had caught.
The snake bit the farmer's wife.
The farmer rushed her to the hospital, and she returned home with a fever.
Everyone knows you treat a fever
with fresh chicken soup, so the
farmer took his hatchet to the
farmyard for the soup's main
ingredient.
But his wife's sickness continued,
so friends and neighbors came to
sit with her around the clock.
To feed them, the farmer
butchered the pig.
The farmer's wife did not get well;
she died.
So many people came for her funeral,
the farmer had the cow slaughtered to
provide enough meat for all of them.
The mouse looked upon it all from
his crack in the wall with great sadness.
So, the next time you hear someone
is facing a problem and think it
doesn't concern you,
remember ----
when one of us is threatened,
we are all at risk.
We are all involved in this journey called life.
We must keep an eye out for one another and make an extra
effort to encourage one another.
Thank the people that have EVER HELPED YOU OUT AND
LET THEM KNOW HOW IMPORTANT THEY ARE.
REMEMBER. . . . . .
EACH OF US IS A VITAL THREAD
In another PERSON'S TAPESTRY;
OUR LIVES ARE WOVEN TOGETHER FOR A REASON.
One of the best things to hold
onto in this world is a FRIEND
Friday, May 22, 2009
Love This....
"Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Grab life by the mane. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Keep asking questions. Keep making mistakes. Keep seeking God. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop repeating the past and start creating the future. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks. Expand your horizons. Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilies. Enjoy the journey. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Live like today is the first day and last day of your life. Don't let what's wrong with you keep you from worshipping what's right with God. Burn sinful bridges. Blaze a new trail. Criticize by creating. Worry less about what people think and more about what God thinks. Don't try to be who you're not. Be yourself. Laugh at yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away. Chase the lion."
- Mark Batterson
- Mark Batterson
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Hope Now
In the last weeks and months, I have often become weary; not because of my own troubles but because of troubles of those that surround us.
But God is HOPE!
I often pray but then wonder, "how can THIS be fixed?"
But God is HOPE!
I look around and it seems HURT is everywhere.
But God is HOPE!
Please take the time to watch this video. There is HOPE and I praise His name.
But God is HOPE!
I often pray but then wonder, "how can THIS be fixed?"
But God is HOPE!
I look around and it seems HURT is everywhere.
But God is HOPE!
Please take the time to watch this video. There is HOPE and I praise His name.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Pride
A year and a half or so ago, I did the Bible study, "Breaking Free" by Beth Moore.
I had often heard of the study but didn't really know much about it. I did know that it had to do with strongholds and I went into it thinking, "Okay...I can do this...shouldn't be a big deal...after all, I don't have any real strongholds." In my mind, I thought "strongholds" were things like drugs, alcohol...you know, "real" problems (ha!). Tsk...tsk.
Not long into the study, I discovered that the fact that I came into the study thinking that I didn't have a stronghold, was a stronghold. I was quickly humbled.
Not too long after that, a friend gave me the following and I have kept it on my fridge ever since. I wanted to post it here so as to keep it permanently...and, of course, to share with any other soul out there who might not have a stronghold (wink, wink). You know...just in case you have a friend who does.
My name is Pride. I am a cheter.
I cheat you of your God-given destiny...
because you demand your own way.
I cheat you of contentment...
because you "deserve better than this."
I cheat you of knowledge...because you already know it all.
I cheat you of healing...because you're too full of me to forgive.
I cheat you of holiness...
because you refuse to admit when you're wrong.
I cheat you of vision...
because you'd rather look in the mirror than out a window.
I cheat you of genuine friendship...
because nobody's going to know the real you.
I cheat you of love...
because real romance demands sacrifice.
I cheat you of greatness in heaven...
because you refuse to wash another's feet on earth.
I cheat you of God's glory...
because I convince you to seek your own.
My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
You like me because you think I'm always looking out for you.
Untrue.
I'm looking to make a fool of you.
God has so much for you, I admit, but don't worry...
If you stick with me,
You'll never know.
I had often heard of the study but didn't really know much about it. I did know that it had to do with strongholds and I went into it thinking, "Okay...I can do this...shouldn't be a big deal...after all, I don't have any real strongholds." In my mind, I thought "strongholds" were things like drugs, alcohol...you know, "real" problems (ha!). Tsk...tsk.
Not long into the study, I discovered that the fact that I came into the study thinking that I didn't have a stronghold, was a stronghold. I was quickly humbled.
Not too long after that, a friend gave me the following and I have kept it on my fridge ever since. I wanted to post it here so as to keep it permanently...and, of course, to share with any other soul out there who might not have a stronghold (wink, wink). You know...just in case you have a friend who does.
My name is Pride. I am a cheter.
I cheat you of your God-given destiny...
because you demand your own way.
I cheat you of contentment...
because you "deserve better than this."
I cheat you of knowledge...because you already know it all.
I cheat you of healing...because you're too full of me to forgive.
I cheat you of holiness...
because you refuse to admit when you're wrong.
I cheat you of vision...
because you'd rather look in the mirror than out a window.
I cheat you of genuine friendship...
because nobody's going to know the real you.
I cheat you of love...
because real romance demands sacrifice.
I cheat you of greatness in heaven...
because you refuse to wash another's feet on earth.
I cheat you of God's glory...
because I convince you to seek your own.
My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
You like me because you think I'm always looking out for you.
Untrue.
I'm looking to make a fool of you.
God has so much for you, I admit, but don't worry...
If you stick with me,
You'll never know.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday
For the last week or so, the lyrics to a song have been speaking LOUDLY into my soul. The words of that song, "Bring the Rain" (by Mercy Me) have surely been teaching me a thing or two (about myself, about others, about my church and about my Lord). I have posted the words below:
I can count a million times
People asking me how I
Can praise You with all that
I've gone through
The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly
Change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life was changed
Long before these rainy days
It's never really ever crossed my mind
To turn my back on you, oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times
So I pray
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings
You glory And I know there'll
be days When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to
praise You Jesus, bring the rain
I am yours regardless of the clouds that may
loom above because you are much greater than
my pain you who made a way for me suffering
your destiny so tell me whats a little rain
[1st Chorus]
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
is the lord God almighty
is the lord God almighty
I'm forever singing
[2nd Chorus 2x]
everybody singing
Holy holy holy
you are holy
you are holy
Somehow, we've come to think that our lives should be easy and we tend to question any trials that come our way. But the truth is that God uses EVERY situation for good. After all, He used the crucifixion of His own son for the good of each of us.
Today, as I think about Good Friday and the fact that all those many years ago, today, Jesus hung on that cross FOR ME (and for you). He didn't ask why. He was beaten and crucified and, PRAISE GOD, I can stand Good Friday because I know that He couldn't be held by any grave.
Some would question what's so "good" about Good Friday...what happened on that day was gruesome and horrifying. But we aren't called to worship Him despite our situations. We are simply called to worship him...period.
And as I reflect on the meaning of Good Friday and its correlation to Easter, I am reminded again of the words of the song above and the fact that, in the end, it's all but a little "rain" for, when it's all said and done, the grave could not hold him and I (we) can not EVER be plucked from His hand.
I beg of you...if you are reading this and have not accepted Jesus as your Savior, that you email me privately (kelleywms@hotmail.com) or speak to someone who can help lead you to the cross. It doesn't take any special formula or scripted prayer....He meets us all right where we are. Who is Jesus to you?
Friday, April 3, 2009
It's been a Mandisa kind of week
As I have stated here before, I am on a mission to lose a large amount of weight. I have currently lost 51.4 pounds and am thrilled but still have quite a way to go. Unlike many other times that I've dieted, I finally feel as if what I am doing is just part of my life. I no longer see it as something that I'm doing short term; it is a complete change of lifestyle. I am not one to pat myself on the back normally but I have been working very hard....working out 4-5 days per week.
Anyway, I didn't start this post just to boast but did want to update some of you who read and have asked about how my diet is going.
Now to the "meat" of my post:
I don't watch American Idol (I know, I know) but I have heard of Mandisa. To be honest, I couldn't have told you if she was from a past season or the current season (I would've guess "past"). I couldn't tell you whether she'd won or lost but I had heard her name. Well...Wednesday I jumped in the car to run some errands and caught the tail-end of what turned out to be a new release by Mandisa. Really, I only heard a few seconds of the song but they took phone calls following its play and people were raving about how good it was.
Fast forward to Thursday....I went to get my nails done and right there at Hana's I met Mandisa's personal trainer. By the way, I visit my own personal trainer on Thursdays and was going straight there from the nail salon (just thought that that was a neat tidbit). Come to find out, Mandisa has lost 80 pounds in 8 months with the help of this trainer (named Tina). Now, I may be the only person on the face of the earth that didn't know this but humor me. This trainer (whose business card reads, "Your Body, His Temple" - so cool!) was talking about what a beautiful person INSIDE and OUT Mandisa was and I left there wanting to learn more about this person who had now come up now twice in the same number of days.
Later on Thursday I came home to find that a sweet, sweet friend had left me a little "happy" on my front porch. A sweet devotional book titled, "Jesus Calling" and the all-time sweetest, most humbling note I believe I have ever received. Anyway, while communicating my thank-yous to this friend she shared with me that she'd had a date with God that day (a little alone time with Him) and that she'd spent it praising his name in unison with, you guessed it, the new Mandisa CD. (She didn't know of the incidences above). She was beside herself about how awesome this new work was and wanted me to have a copy.
Being that I am the impatient person that I am (and also being that I have an Ipod and never know what I want to put on it or how to do it even if I did), I decided I wanted to put the album on my Ipod so that's exactly what I did.
Mandisa's new CD is titled "Freedom" and it is really, really awesome. I also found the following video on Tangle where Mandisa shares a little about her journey to lose 100 pounds. I've enjoyed getting to know Mandisa this week and look forward to following her in the future as she reaches her goals and praises His name.
Sorry....I'm having trouble embedding the video but you can see it here.
Anyway, I didn't start this post just to boast but did want to update some of you who read and have asked about how my diet is going.
Now to the "meat" of my post:
I don't watch American Idol (I know, I know) but I have heard of Mandisa. To be honest, I couldn't have told you if she was from a past season or the current season (I would've guess "past"). I couldn't tell you whether she'd won or lost but I had heard her name. Well...Wednesday I jumped in the car to run some errands and caught the tail-end of what turned out to be a new release by Mandisa. Really, I only heard a few seconds of the song but they took phone calls following its play and people were raving about how good it was.
Fast forward to Thursday....I went to get my nails done and right there at Hana's I met Mandisa's personal trainer. By the way, I visit my own personal trainer on Thursdays and was going straight there from the nail salon (just thought that that was a neat tidbit). Come to find out, Mandisa has lost 80 pounds in 8 months with the help of this trainer (named Tina). Now, I may be the only person on the face of the earth that didn't know this but humor me. This trainer (whose business card reads, "Your Body, His Temple" - so cool!) was talking about what a beautiful person INSIDE and OUT Mandisa was and I left there wanting to learn more about this person who had now come up now twice in the same number of days.
Later on Thursday I came home to find that a sweet, sweet friend had left me a little "happy" on my front porch. A sweet devotional book titled, "Jesus Calling" and the all-time sweetest, most humbling note I believe I have ever received. Anyway, while communicating my thank-yous to this friend she shared with me that she'd had a date with God that day (a little alone time with Him) and that she'd spent it praising his name in unison with, you guessed it, the new Mandisa CD. (She didn't know of the incidences above). She was beside herself about how awesome this new work was and wanted me to have a copy.
Being that I am the impatient person that I am (and also being that I have an Ipod and never know what I want to put on it or how to do it even if I did), I decided I wanted to put the album on my Ipod so that's exactly what I did.
Mandisa's new CD is titled "Freedom" and it is really, really awesome. I also found the following video on Tangle where Mandisa shares a little about her journey to lose 100 pounds. I've enjoyed getting to know Mandisa this week and look forward to following her in the future as she reaches her goals and praises His name.
Sorry....I'm having trouble embedding the video but you can see it here.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Not The First Time
There has been at least once in the past that I have referred to a blog that I read which is written by a local pastor, Ridley Barron. Ridley's daughter was in Braeden's class in the 2nd grade I believe; however, at the time, I didn't know his story or anything about his family. Since then, I learned of the loss of his first wife and their baby and, in following his blog, find him to be a mighty warrior for God's kingdom. His post today is one that deserves to be shared:
You can't do anything about your past. You can, however, do everything about your future. One of our friends and LIFE group members challenged Lisa with this thought a few weeks back. She put it this way. You have to live life through your windshield and not your rear view mirror.
Perhaps that's what Isaiah had in mind when he wrote these words:
18 "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV
I believe God has great plans for you and me. They are limited only by our willingness to follow His lead. We serve a God who is ridiculously powerful, stupendously loving and maddeningly illogical (according to our understanding). Don't limit what He wants to do with your tomorrows because you refuse to leave yesterday behind. Life lived through the windshield holds limitless promises for those who will surrender the rear view mirror. Live dangerously in the arms of God!
Thanks, once again, Ridley for this reminder of who God is.
You can't do anything about your past. You can, however, do everything about your future. One of our friends and LIFE group members challenged Lisa with this thought a few weeks back. She put it this way. You have to live life through your windshield and not your rear view mirror.
Perhaps that's what Isaiah had in mind when he wrote these words:
18 "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV
I believe God has great plans for you and me. They are limited only by our willingness to follow His lead. We serve a God who is ridiculously powerful, stupendously loving and maddeningly illogical (according to our understanding). Don't limit what He wants to do with your tomorrows because you refuse to leave yesterday behind. Life lived through the windshield holds limitless promises for those who will surrender the rear view mirror. Live dangerously in the arms of God!
Thanks, once again, Ridley for this reminder of who God is.
Friday, January 30, 2009
I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends
A friend is one to whom one may pour out all the contents of one's heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that the gentlest of hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping and with a breath of kindness blow the rest away.
I have thought and spoken recently (on several occasions actually) about how I feel that I have lived a WHOLE LOT O' LIFE in the last year. Possibly more than ever before in my 41 years.
In this time, I have learned (and am still learning) lots of lessons. I honestly wish that I had had the forethought to keep a running list. I didn't but there is one thing that has become so very real to me and I wanted to share that here.
In what has likely been the hardest year of our lives, I am so thankful that Jeff and I have a group of people to "do life with". Life is hard but, without the love of friends and family, I can't imagine what it would be. I realize, time and time again, what a blessing it is to have this and find myself feeling so unworthy of these valuable relationships. I often think of the fact that some people live an entire lifetime and NEVER experience true friendship. There are so many people who have been placed in my path who allow me to see a little bit of Jesus each and every day. I am humbled and honored.
"BooMama" wrote a post about this very thing today and it rings so very true; when you have a chance, click over and read what she has to say.
Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up." - Ecclesiastes
Monday, January 19, 2009
BEING the Church
As it regards the church, I feel that I have lived a lifetime of experience in the last several years.
The "world" believes that the church is a "pollyana" place where righteous people come to be with other righteous people. They believe that we are tee-totalers who have never done anything wrong and that we are sailing through life unscathed.
Not so.
There are two kinds of sinners in the world....lost sinners and saved sinners. That one dividing line is all that separates one of us from the other. But do we, as Christians, make a point of sharing with the lost sinners of the world that we are as wretched as they. That we have lives filled with hurts, with struggles, with deceit and pain; an entire life full of JUNK?
I ran across this today and wanted to share it with you. These words are not mine but they are very fitting for where I am at this moment.
"We need to stop PLAYING church and start BEING the church." - WOW! This statement, was made in a sermon recently at Cross Point Church. When questioned about it, their Pastor provided the following for an explanation.....
It means we need to stop arguing about style of worship and get concerned about the poor and hungry around the world.
It means we need to spend less time gossiping about others and more time allowing God to break our hearts over the people in our cities who are facing an eternity apart from Christ.
It means we need to stop whining about what programs our church has or doesn’t have and we need to learn what it means to abide in Jesus from one moment to the next.
Listen, it’s got to stop. We’ve got to stop showing up on Sunday mornings and playing church. The New testament never calls us to just go to church, but to be the church.
It seems far to often we’ve reduced church down to spiritual masturbation. We’ve made it all about us. We’ve turned it into something we do to stroke our ego-driven, self-centered, materialistic lives. It gives us momentary pleasure, but we’ve failed to give, serve, or sacrifice of ourselves. It leads to false intimacy with our creator God.
We play church.
I’m done with that.
Be the church.
(sound of me stepping off my soap box)
I realize that these are some BOLD thoughts and some BOLD words but I'm convinced that if we did, in fact, stop playing church and started being the church, things would be a lot different for us individually and collectively....not to mention the unchurched folks who have been avoiding us like the plaque.
The "world" believes that the church is a "pollyana" place where righteous people come to be with other righteous people. They believe that we are tee-totalers who have never done anything wrong and that we are sailing through life unscathed.
Not so.
There are two kinds of sinners in the world....lost sinners and saved sinners. That one dividing line is all that separates one of us from the other. But do we, as Christians, make a point of sharing with the lost sinners of the world that we are as wretched as they. That we have lives filled with hurts, with struggles, with deceit and pain; an entire life full of JUNK?
I ran across this today and wanted to share it with you. These words are not mine but they are very fitting for where I am at this moment.
"We need to stop PLAYING church and start BEING the church." - WOW! This statement, was made in a sermon recently at Cross Point Church. When questioned about it, their Pastor provided the following for an explanation.....
It means we need to stop arguing about style of worship and get concerned about the poor and hungry around the world.
It means we need to spend less time gossiping about others and more time allowing God to break our hearts over the people in our cities who are facing an eternity apart from Christ.
It means we need to stop whining about what programs our church has or doesn’t have and we need to learn what it means to abide in Jesus from one moment to the next.
Listen, it’s got to stop. We’ve got to stop showing up on Sunday mornings and playing church. The New testament never calls us to just go to church, but to be the church.
It seems far to often we’ve reduced church down to spiritual masturbation. We’ve made it all about us. We’ve turned it into something we do to stroke our ego-driven, self-centered, materialistic lives. It gives us momentary pleasure, but we’ve failed to give, serve, or sacrifice of ourselves. It leads to false intimacy with our creator God.
We play church.
I’m done with that.
Be the church.
(sound of me stepping off my soap box)
I realize that these are some BOLD thoughts and some BOLD words but I'm convinced that if we did, in fact, stop playing church and started being the church, things would be a lot different for us individually and collectively....not to mention the unchurched folks who have been avoiding us like the plaque.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Mary, did you know?
As I sit here on this Christmas Eve, I have many thoughts. This Christmas season, as all of the others before it, have been a whirlwind. Such a whirlwind, in fact, that I didn't get my cards mailed. They were ordered, they were received, most of them were even addressed but they never made it into the mail. I can recall times where that would have stressed me beyond measure. Today....not so much.
And as I ponder why, all I can think about is Mary.
I wonder what she might have been doing on this day all those years ago and I think back to my own pregnancies. Of course, because of the lack of technology, she probably wasn't able to pinpoint the baby's arrival and plan and prepare in the way that I did. After all, I had scheduled births with both of my boys and those eve's before they were born, I'm sure that I found myself scurrying around taking care of those final details. I had a perfectly appointed nursery and had been given shower after shower after shower. Lots of little clothes hung on lots of little hangers and my Mom and NaNa had washed everything in Dreft. All of the diapers were stacked perfectly and essentials like wipes were placed exactly at arms length. My bags were packed with all of the necessities and always included brand new gowns/pj's for me (NaNa always stressed over us having new gowns when we were going into the hospital) and just the right "going home" outfit for the new baby.
Mary, who I understand was probably only 14-16 years old at the time of Jesus' birth, definitely didn't have new gowns. In fact, in the days before the birth of this Christ child, she had had to make her way from her hometown of Nazareth to the town of Bethlehem where she (and others) had been ordered to participate in a census. Due to the large numbers of people who had to report to Bethlehem, all of the rooms were taken. Mary and Joseph had travelled for three days and then found themselves sleeping in a stable that had been offered by an innkeeper who didn't have anything better available for them. It was there, in that stable, that Mary gave birth to our Savior - mine and yours - Jesus Christ. The baby who was born of a virgin birth and sent to save us from our sins and ourselves.
As the song states, I wonder, did she know? How much did she understand about God's plan for her little boy? Did she know that he would heal the blind, make the lame to walk and raise Lazarus from the grave? Did she know that he would walk on water and then later suffer a death on the cross; one that she would live to see? She obviously trusted God enough to know that whatever He had planned was bigger than anything she could imagine.
Mary was right.
God is sovereign. He sent his one and only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins. And he did just that....while we were still sinners. Not when we shaped up. Not when we promised to do better. Not when we said, "pplleeaassee, I'll never do it again."
Tomorrow, we celebrate the birth of this sweet baby. I encourage you, if you do not know him, it is not too late. There is no time like the present. Get to know him. In fact, make him your very best friend. Mary trusted. So should we.
Luke 1:45 Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"
And as I ponder why, all I can think about is Mary.
I wonder what she might have been doing on this day all those years ago and I think back to my own pregnancies. Of course, because of the lack of technology, she probably wasn't able to pinpoint the baby's arrival and plan and prepare in the way that I did. After all, I had scheduled births with both of my boys and those eve's before they were born, I'm sure that I found myself scurrying around taking care of those final details. I had a perfectly appointed nursery and had been given shower after shower after shower. Lots of little clothes hung on lots of little hangers and my Mom and NaNa had washed everything in Dreft. All of the diapers were stacked perfectly and essentials like wipes were placed exactly at arms length. My bags were packed with all of the necessities and always included brand new gowns/pj's for me (NaNa always stressed over us having new gowns when we were going into the hospital) and just the right "going home" outfit for the new baby.
Mary, who I understand was probably only 14-16 years old at the time of Jesus' birth, definitely didn't have new gowns. In fact, in the days before the birth of this Christ child, she had had to make her way from her hometown of Nazareth to the town of Bethlehem where she (and others) had been ordered to participate in a census. Due to the large numbers of people who had to report to Bethlehem, all of the rooms were taken. Mary and Joseph had travelled for three days and then found themselves sleeping in a stable that had been offered by an innkeeper who didn't have anything better available for them. It was there, in that stable, that Mary gave birth to our Savior - mine and yours - Jesus Christ. The baby who was born of a virgin birth and sent to save us from our sins and ourselves.
As the song states, I wonder, did she know? How much did she understand about God's plan for her little boy? Did she know that he would heal the blind, make the lame to walk and raise Lazarus from the grave? Did she know that he would walk on water and then later suffer a death on the cross; one that she would live to see? She obviously trusted God enough to know that whatever He had planned was bigger than anything she could imagine.
Mary was right.
God is sovereign. He sent his one and only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins. And he did just that....while we were still sinners. Not when we shaped up. Not when we promised to do better. Not when we said, "pplleeaassee, I'll never do it again."
Tomorrow, we celebrate the birth of this sweet baby. I encourage you, if you do not know him, it is not too late. There is no time like the present. Get to know him. In fact, make him your very best friend. Mary trusted. So should we.
Luke 1:45 Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"
Friday, November 28, 2008
It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
It is the day after Thanksgiving and I did what I normally do and headed out shopping this morning; albeit at 7:00 a.m. which, by most Black Friday shoppers' standards is WAY late. My Mom and 21 year old brother spent the night with me so that we could all head out together (hubby and boys, by the way, were hunting) which has been our tradition the last couple of years. Carson cracks us up as he basically just rolls out of the bed and joins us (in all his ungroomed glory). In all honesty, Mom and I weren't looking too good ourselves but we won't mention that here. He is the official driver and he is so good to let us out at the door and then park. Except today, somehow, we managed to find some primo parking all day and hardly required valet service at all. Ashley (my sister) met up with us at Cool Springs a little later. I think she actually bathed - ha!
Normally, I put out my Christmas decorations on this weekend also. Typically taking the better part of two days. Earlier this week, though, I got a bit of a head start (on Wednesday) by dragging it all out of the attic, assembling the tree and decorating the banisters and the front porch (well, I do have a bit of details to finish out there). I have taken on a new attitude this year as I am being very laid back about my decor. Normally, I overdo it and then begin dreading the take-down process on Christmas Eve which puts a bit of a damper on things. This year, we have simplified our outdoor decor and I have eliminated one gigantic (15 foot) tree in our Great Room. I have to be honest, as I sit here with almost everything done with about 3-4 hours work involved, I am feeling pretty good about this decision.
I love to decorate...I really do but I felt the pull this year to change my focus. I pray that I remain mindful during this season to stay focused on the One for whom we celebrate, the One who was born in a stable and placed in a manger; no hype involved.
Normally, I put out my Christmas decorations on this weekend also. Typically taking the better part of two days. Earlier this week, though, I got a bit of a head start (on Wednesday) by dragging it all out of the attic, assembling the tree and decorating the banisters and the front porch (well, I do have a bit of details to finish out there). I have taken on a new attitude this year as I am being very laid back about my decor. Normally, I overdo it and then begin dreading the take-down process on Christmas Eve which puts a bit of a damper on things. This year, we have simplified our outdoor decor and I have eliminated one gigantic (15 foot) tree in our Great Room. I have to be honest, as I sit here with almost everything done with about 3-4 hours work involved, I am feeling pretty good about this decision.
I love to decorate...I really do but I felt the pull this year to change my focus. I pray that I remain mindful during this season to stay focused on the One for whom we celebrate, the One who was born in a stable and placed in a manger; no hype involved.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Trail Mix Moments
Edited to add....What was I thinking? Behind every good man is one great woman....thanks to Ridley's wife, Lisa, for this great thought.
This is another one of those things that I can't take credit for but I had to share. It is simply a recent post from a feed that I receive regularly by a local Pastor. It is so fitting to so many of our lives at this time and I couldn't help but share and want to give Ridley Barron the credit. Of course, over the years, as I've read Ridley's thoughts, I know he'd really want me to give credit to God and God alone and, of course, he'd be correct for He alone deserves all praise, honor and glory. Read Ridley's words below and enjoy.....
My wife tells me we are in the midst of trail mix moments. It’s just another one of those creative phrases she uses to keep life in perspective for all of us.
Like many of you, we are facing “stuff”—weird economy, growing kids, changing church and personal challenges that every believer deals with.
Anyway, I’ll let her words explain the whole “trail mix” thing to you....
“We are having some of the sweetest moments and some of the saltiest moments all at the same time. Obviously, I would much prefer to pick out the M&M’s and just enjoy the sweet moments but I am excited about what we are learning about being salt and light to the world in our salty moments. It makes me smile to say we have both. Too much salt leaves you dry and thirsty. I may not be “nuts” about the salty lessons but I do get excited how we know we are on the right track when we are in the midst of salty moments and, boy, I sure can taste those M&M’s better when they are mixed in with the salty. Can’t you?
Think about it. What a “sweet” reminder that ministry offers both. What a blessing that we are experiencing both right now. I am excited to take the next bite that Jesus has to offer. I pray that you and I enjoy our healthy trail mix and that we continue to hunger and thirst for righteousness.”
Good words. Great truths. Isn’t she “sweet”? Hope you enjoy all the flavors that life brings you today and remember that God is in both.
This is another one of those things that I can't take credit for but I had to share. It is simply a recent post from a feed that I receive regularly by a local Pastor. It is so fitting to so many of our lives at this time and I couldn't help but share and want to give Ridley Barron the credit. Of course, over the years, as I've read Ridley's thoughts, I know he'd really want me to give credit to God and God alone and, of course, he'd be correct for He alone deserves all praise, honor and glory. Read Ridley's words below and enjoy.....
My wife tells me we are in the midst of trail mix moments. It’s just another one of those creative phrases she uses to keep life in perspective for all of us.
Like many of you, we are facing “stuff”—weird economy, growing kids, changing church and personal challenges that every believer deals with.
Anyway, I’ll let her words explain the whole “trail mix” thing to you....
“We are having some of the sweetest moments and some of the saltiest moments all at the same time. Obviously, I would much prefer to pick out the M&M’s and just enjoy the sweet moments but I am excited about what we are learning about being salt and light to the world in our salty moments. It makes me smile to say we have both. Too much salt leaves you dry and thirsty. I may not be “nuts” about the salty lessons but I do get excited how we know we are on the right track when we are in the midst of salty moments and, boy, I sure can taste those M&M’s better when they are mixed in with the salty. Can’t you?
Think about it. What a “sweet” reminder that ministry offers both. What a blessing that we are experiencing both right now. I am excited to take the next bite that Jesus has to offer. I pray that you and I enjoy our healthy trail mix and that we continue to hunger and thirst for righteousness.”
Good words. Great truths. Isn’t she “sweet”? Hope you enjoy all the flavors that life brings you today and remember that God is in both.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
How Could We Forget?
As I was growing up, I used to hear my parents and others say things like, "I remember exactly where I was when THIS happened" or "I can tell you exactly what I was doing when THAT happened." "This" and "That", oftentimes, was when JFK was shot or when Elvis died. I often wondered how in the world (or why) such an event would be or could be so engraved into their minds.
On September 11, 2001 that question was answered. We were living in Chattanooga (Hixson actually). Had been there for just over one year when Jeff got a job back in Nashville. He was here working and the boys and I were there trying to sell our home (which is not a good place to be when something like this happens). Jordan had gone to school and I drove Braeden to his Mother's Day Out. I went inside and one of the teachers told me what had happened. It didn't really sink in immediately. I feel so shallow to share that I left the church and drove to the nail salon to get my nails done. It was there, as I waited my turn and watched the television, that I became very scared. I went on back to the MDO to pick Braeden up but couldn't figure out why EVERYONE was getting gasoline. Every station I passed had cars lined up into the street. I called my Mom from my cell phone to ask her what the rush was at the pumps.
Being in Chattanoga without Jeff was always hard but, after this day, it was intolerable. It wasn't much longer until the boys and I made our way to Nashville, staying in a small apartment that Jeff's company was providing until we could purchase a new home.
I recall being so fearful of the new world that we would live in. It IS different now. I am very thankful that I can remember this event so vividly for it has changed me (and all of us I believe) into someone who doesn't take her freedom so lightly and someone who knows that everyday is a gift. I am one who says her pledge of allegiance more proudly than ever before. I pray that I never, never forget.
The images below are some that are so familiar yet so hard to see. I never want to forget these people and their families. I don't want you to forget them either.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
God's Love
What a powerful message of a father's love for his "imperfect" son. And, yet, how much more does our Father in Heaven love us? Hard to imagine, huh?
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Before and After
There is a video on GodTube that has been making its way through the blog and email world for some time. I originally saw it about 6 weeks or so ago and, immediately, wanted to share it with you here on my blog. Apparently, at the time, I had bigger fish to fry (like showing you a picture of my flat iron and my favorite razor) but today, as my husband emailed me to remind me that I needed to update, I immediately thought of finding this video for you.
I beg you to take the time to watch (it is 8 minutes and 12 seconds long) and, as you do so, think about where it is that you've been and, PRAISE GOD, where you are now and, even more importantly, where you're going.
II Corinthians 3:18 - And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
I beg you to take the time to watch (it is 8 minutes and 12 seconds long) and, as you do so, think about where it is that you've been and, PRAISE GOD, where you are now and, even more importantly, where you're going.
II Corinthians 3:18 - And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into His likeness with ever increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Being Real About Forgiveness
I somewhat jokingly spoke about being "real" in yesterday's post. Of course, being real in some situations (like the weather) is different (and much easier) than being real in others and, today, ALL.DAY.TODAY (no matter how much I try to ignore it), God has been reminding me of the realness of which I spoke. Only, in this instance, He has asked me to be REAL about where I stand as it applies to the forgiveness of others. And, can I just get it out there by saying that I AM STRUGGLING TO FORGIVE OTHERS. There you have it. Now what?
The thing is, that the grace that I need to extend to others doesn't even really have to do with me personally. It is for actions taken, words spoken, etc. that were actually spoken toward someone(s) that I care deeply for. Indeed, the final outcome affected MANY (including myself and my family) but I wonder, who do I think I am not to be able to get past it?
I can say that I forgive but I continue to go back to the wrongs that were done. So...is that true forgiveness? Is forgiveness a choice or is it a feeling? If I say I've forgiven, yet the hurt hasn't been healed, where do I go from here? What if I even wish these people all God's best in the future? Can I be real again and say that the fact that I do so is simply because I want GLORY for HIM (and not them)? Can we, in the flesh, forgive and forget or are we even expected to? I think that the answer to this lies in Colossians 3:13: Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
As I was typing this post and took a break from it, I found the following information about forgiveness. I guess if I weren't being so REAL today, I could've gone back and removed the first part of my post and just pretended that I had it all figured out on my own but that wouldn't be so. Thanks be to Him for answering so many of my self-imposed questions and for doing a work in me that I can not do on my own. Please let me share what He has shown me today.
I guess I have a long way to go.
The thing is, that the grace that I need to extend to others doesn't even really have to do with me personally. It is for actions taken, words spoken, etc. that were actually spoken toward someone(s) that I care deeply for. Indeed, the final outcome affected MANY (including myself and my family) but I wonder, who do I think I am not to be able to get past it?
I can say that I forgive but I continue to go back to the wrongs that were done. So...is that true forgiveness? Is forgiveness a choice or is it a feeling? If I say I've forgiven, yet the hurt hasn't been healed, where do I go from here? What if I even wish these people all God's best in the future? Can I be real again and say that the fact that I do so is simply because I want GLORY for HIM (and not them)? Can we, in the flesh, forgive and forget or are we even expected to? I think that the answer to this lies in Colossians 3:13: Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
As I was typing this post and took a break from it, I found the following information about forgiveness. I guess if I weren't being so REAL today, I could've gone back and removed the first part of my post and just pretended that I had it all figured out on my own but that wouldn't be so. Thanks be to Him for answering so many of my self-imposed questions and for doing a work in me that I can not do on my own. Please let me share what He has shown me today.
- We forgive by faith, out of obedience. Since forgiveness goes against our nature, we must forgive by faith, whether we feel like it or not. We must trust God to do the work in us that needs to be done so that the forgiveness will be complete.
- I (the writer) believe that God honors our commitment to obey Him and our desire to please him when we choose to forgive. He completes the work in his time. We must continue to forgive (our job) by faith, until the work of forgiveness (the Lord's job), is done in our hearts.
- Corrie Ten Boom once said, "To forgive is to set a prisoner free, and to realize the prisoner was you."
- We will know the work of forgiveness is complete when we experience the freedom that comes as a result. We are the ones who suffer most when we choose not to forgive. When we do forgive, the Lord sets our hearts free from the bitterness, anger, resentment and hurt that previously imprisoned us. Most times, however, forgiveness is a slow process.
I guess I have a long way to go.
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