connect2Him...connect2others

My Conversion

2010-06-14T18:12:00.002-04:00

Foreword by Randy Murphy of CTO...
Recently, we welcomed to our home a most interesting and delightful guest…Umar Ado, a pastor from Nigeria. He had first heard of our ministry while visiting a man in South Carolina in 2006 who was being discipled over the phone by a discipler in Indiana. When Umar saw the CTO manual and heard about intimate discipleship, his immediate response was a great desire to be discipled and trained to reach his country with the application of Biblical truths. Through prayers and funds made available through regular CTO contributors, we were able to see Umar’s dream fulfilled as he spent a month in intensive discipleship. His humble attitude and quick applications of God’s principles brought immediate and significant changes. His month with us was an inspiration as we observed his joyful attitude because he had the privilege to serve his Lord in Nigeria. Not only do he and his family live in great poverty, but also as a former radical Muslim, he lives with the constant reality that his life is in jeopardy. It certainly became a time for our personal “attitude checks” that we in America have been given so much and so little is asked of us.

Umar has returned to his country with the goal of translating CTO into Housa, one of Nigeria’s languages. His wife witnessed such a transformation in him that she asked to be discipled by him, and together they are discipling a pastor who is director of education of large denomination in Nigeria and his wife. Umar is also leading three groups from his church through the Who’s in Charge? studies. This month he is presenting an overview of the CTO ministry to the faculty of a local seminary where he teaches some classes. The following is Umar’s story in his words:

MY CONVERSION
by Umar Ado...
"The greatest enemy of Islam is Christianity!" My Islamic teacher drilled this idea into my head and heart. As a young 5 year-old boy, I had been given by my family to be schooled in the Koran and Islam. My teachers discovered my abilities, and I was groomed with the intention to someday be a tool to fight Christianity. Little did they know that their plans would result in my eventual conversion to the truth of the Gospel.

I excelled in my studies beyond my peers, and my time to confront Christianity came in 1989. The village elders called me and said, "Umar, this is why the village sent you to school. A visiting pastor with a group of Christians will hold a crusade here to convert us to their religion. We want you to humiliate them and drive them away!" I devised a plan – we would verbally harass the Christians, then douse their cars with gasoline, set them on fire, and beat or kill them in the resulting confusion. By this time I myself had become an imam (teacher of the Muslim faith) and I engaged a group of my students to help carry out the plan. The village even raised enough money to pay off the police to see that our trouble making was not hindered. We headed to the church with a mob of about 5,000 Muslims to surround the small group of 25-30 believers and began our intimidation.

I started to interrupt the preacher with questions intended to embarrass him, but he asked me to let him finish his sermon and then he would answer my questions. I sat and listened to him preach for a while and then our barrage began. I would ask a question, then as the preacher was answering all 5,000 of us would shout "Allahu akbar!" I became so engrossed in the task of trying to confuse the preacher with my questions that I forgot to give the signal to light the fires. At 1 a.m., I finally remembered to give that signal. I raised my fist in the air and waited for the flames, but there was no response. I left the meeting and angrily questioned the three groups of boys who had not carried out my orders.

"Yes, we saw your signal but when we went to strike the matches to light the cars on fire, we could not because there was a great light that shone down from the sky on us”, explained the first group. I was furious! When I questioned the second and third groups, they explained that their arms were literally paralyzed and they could not move to carry out my orders. I chastened the "stupid" boys and intended to return the next night – only this time I would be the one to light the matches and drive them from our village!

That night was the most miserable of my life. I was filled with anger and turmoil as I thought about my confrontation with Christianity and the preacher’s words describing the love of God. I dropped to my knees in tears and confusion and threw out a challenge to this Jesus: "If you are in heaven, reveal your truth to me!" I cried. Could the words of my enemies, the Christians, be true? I was drawn to the Koran and turned to passages that mentioned Jesus as a prophet, but this time I saw them in a new light. It was as if a veil had been lifted from my eyes! I prayed aloud, "Oh Jesus, I promise I will obey whatever you say. This is the TRUTH!" Immediately a PEACE flooded my being and I decided to become a Christian, whatever the cost. I went to bed and slept peacefully.

The next morning, I reconsidered my intention to become a Christian. I knew it would cost me everything I held dear, and I could not turn my back on my Muslim faith and family. Immediately, the peace left me and the inner turmoil and confusion returned. That night, I went back to the meeting as agreed, but this time I listened intently to the message on the grace of God. I became so convicted that I knew I MUST receive Christ. However, my girlfriend literally held my arm to keep me from going forward at the preacher’s invitation, so I waited until the meeting adjourned and the crowd was dispersed.

I excused the rabble-rousers I had brought with me to interrupt the meeting, and at 2 a.m., I went to talk to the preacher who lived in my village. The man was afraid of me and did not believe my intentions were sincere since I had persecuted him and his flock for years. On August 6, 1989, I gave my life to Christ. The Christians who had once called me “the devil” rejoiced and said, "Can God perform this miracle in our time?" That very night, I prepared to begin my new life.

Knowing the Muslims would seek to take my life, the local Christians there took me away from my village and hid me. Over the next several months, amazing events occurred. Indeed, my former Muslim friends and students found me on two separate occasions and tried to kill me, but the Lord intervened. Much hardship fell on those Christians who befriended and protected me, and I was filled with guilt over what my decision had also cost them. The Lord ministered to me greatly in those very early days and He performed miracles to provide for me through His people.

One day I went into a church in another town. Lo and behold, the moment I entered this church my ears were shocked to hear them praying aloud for me by name! I had "just happened" to walk into the church of the same group who visited my village—the very ones I had harassed months before. They had prayed for two hours each Sunday for three months for my conversion and God directed me to them. How we rejoiced and praised God together as they, too, were shocked to learn of my decision to leave Islam and follow Christ. No doubt, it was their prayers that held me firm through those first difficult months.

Although I was very young in the Lord, I desired to go to a Bible School to learn all I could about my new faith so I could return someday to my village and lead my large family to the Savior. I had only the clothes on my back, but Christians gave me a Bible and shared their meager resources with me. The devil was busy trying to discourage me through many difficulties and attempts to take my life, but God was faithful to me. He miraculously provided a way to go to Bible School. It was there I met my wife and the Lord led me into the pastorate, although that was the farthest thing from my mind!

I am presently pastoring a church and am the National Coordinator of Life Challenge Africa Nigeria, training men to reach Muslims with truth and love. My passion is to reach Muslims and encourage Nigerian pastors to apologetically provide cogent and cohesive answers to Muslims seekers. I have received training in Arabic to prepare me for greater outreach. There is an urgent need to contextualize Muslims outreach materials and find appropriate answers to the legitimate questions that Nigerian Muslims are asking. Indeed, Christianity is a "threat" to Islam, but certainly not its "enemy." My testimony is one to attest to the life-changing message of the truth of the Gospel.

Yours in Him,
Rev. Umar Ado
LCAN Coordinator

Close Calls!

2009-06-19T09:28:00.003-04:00

Charlie -- He Jus' Makes Me Smile!

2009-06-12T07:05:00.001-04:00

Running Away To BE With God

2009-05-09T14:06:00.007-04:00

“As often as possible Jesus withdrew to out-of-the-way places for prayer.” Luke 5:16 (Message)

Sitting on a downed log next to the slow moving river I meet with God. A canopy of purple from a red bud tree shades my head as lace from the sun. Pink blossoms blow gently past me to hover mysteriously above the rippling water. I would say we meet in silence, yet it is actually musical. Birds are chirping and squawking, insects are humming and buzzing, dry leaves are crunching, trees are swaying — all in a rhythmic harmony to the words Jesus speaks into my heart. “Praise Him, sun and moon, praise Him, all you shining stars. Praise Him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies. Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He commanded and they were created. He set them in place forever and ever; He gave a decree that will never pass away. Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do His bidding, you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds… Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His splendor is above the earth and the heavens.” Psalm 148:3-13 (NASB)

Over the past twelve years our Father has called me to “run away” to be with Him alone in the woods again and again to pray, listen and be refreshed by Him. This past spring we have had an especially sweet time together. First just the two of us were alone for seven days at Camp Lutherhaven. Then with Him through a close friend of ours I was taught how to do a little hiking and appreciate the woods from yet a whole new perspective--bringing the Word with us to read and pray together, soaking in a sacred God’s creation.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (NASB) In quiet contemplation I breathe deep the sweet air of the forest, keeping my eyes peeled for what God may send to me to speak rest into my exhausted soul. This past few weeks He has sent cotton tailed bunnies, chipmunks, squirrels, a flock of blue jays, a red tailed fox, a kissing cardinal couple and even several deer. The intricate majesty of His “ordinary” creation astonishes me. Taking my eyes off of me, and moving them onto Him, I find that “He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.” Psalms 23:3

Whenever I know it is time for me to leave the woods to go back to “normal life” I find a big part of me reacting like a small child. I beg God to stay with Him “here” for a little while longer. Honestly, I don’t know how anyone who follows Christ makes it without these quiet times alone with Him. It has been some of my most treasured moments with God.

So although I beg Him for us to stay “awhile longer,” I find that He always seems to remind me "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." Exodus 33:14 That then allows me the opportunity to look forward to the next time I am able to “run away” and be alone with Him again.

One Body in the Lord

2009-05-07T08:44:00.008-04:00

Recently some people from St. Augustine immigrant church, New Life Lutheran, some seminarians from all over (Korea, Ethiopia, Kenya), and as you can see some c2g people, got together to celebrate the fact that we are all Nations Under God.

If was very Spiritually unifying time together. The Spirit of the Lord, Music and Food brought us together as one body. See the photo's below thanks to Dave & Janet Baker... There is also a picture of Pastor Larry Merino, one of our favorite people.

Self-Centeredness & Anger

2009-04-30T08:24:00.004-04:00

Thomas Jefferson once said “If angry, count to ten before you speak; if very angry, count to one hundred.” Where does anger come from? It is a reaction to irritating people and circumstances, you might say. But I believe that the root cause of anger is self-centeredness which is ultimately pride. We live in a world that tells us “It's all about me!” And when something doesn't suit the center of our "me universe" then anger erupts. That's difficult to admit, isn't it?

God has been bringing “self-centeredness” to my attention lately. My husband and I are BIG Komets fans. The coliseum and the games are a good lesson for self-centeredness. First there's the people who run over your toes because they are just focused on something other than you! When you find your seat, someone sits in front of you and reeks of BAD cologne. Another group sits behind you and they don't even watch the game they just talk and talk and talk and talk. AND the refs...well we'll forget the refs...they will continue to be annoying. But, I get so angry when I can't breathe because of someone pouring their entire bottle of perfume on them or talk about how "little George" ran over his big sister with the toy wheel barrow and they had to pretend to take her to the hospital instead of watching the game. I have turned around and told people in back of me to be quiet and watch the game, I've yelled at people to sit down so I can see, I've moved because I couldn't breathe but not until after Ive complained to my husband and whoever else wants to listen.

Rather than using our words in anger or grumbling, we can use our words to be the fragrance of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:15). Have you ever hugged someone and ended up wearing her perfume? We will leave a fragrance, so to speak, by the words we speak. It can be a pleasing fragrance or one that reeks. Instead of speaking words of anger. I should be gracious and with the love of Christ speak words of kindness. Rather than becoming angry, I should exude the fragrance of Christ and have it permeate the entire fan section.

We have a choice. When we choose not to react in self-centered anger, but extend grace, the aroma of Christ is released. Paul writes “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this; Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because our anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires”

When I speak words of love and grace I emit the fragrance of life. When I speak words of grumbling and anger I smell of death. Hmmmm! Which do we want to smell like?

Grace and peace be with you,
Christie

Gently Radical

2009-04-11T16:57:00.006-04:00

The woman written of in the gospels who anointed our Savior was just an ordinary woman. However, her expression of love is legendary.

“When a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, and as she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them.” Luke 7:37-38 This scene painted in Luke 7:37-38 (see also Matthew 26:1-16, Mark 14:1-12 & John 12:1-11) awakens a feeling in me, best described as “gently radical.”

During this time in history women kept their hair pinned up. Paul even goes so far to say in one Epistle that a woman’s glory is her hair. Yet, humbly she departed from the culturally accepted thing, took her hair down and used “her glory” to serve Him tenderly.

The radical offering of pouring out a year’s worth of wages onto the feet of the object of her affection is riveting. Recently, I heard a speaker discuss this passage. He stated that the average annual wage today in his area of the United Sates is about $50,000 -- he asked the audience to imagine the idea of $50,000 being spent in just a few minutes blessing the Lord. Seems absolutely extreme doesn’t it? Yet, His forgiveness compelled her heart to pour out such an amazing gift! Resonating with me, that great forgiveness begets deep gratitude.

I find it irresistible that she preaches without saying a word -- preaching with tender kisses and extravagant fragrance! Over the years as I am brought back to these passages about the woman (or possibly -- women) anointing Jesus I have always focused on how she ministered to me and how she ministered to the people who witnessed the event, and Jesus’ response to her and those around them. Until recently I never really considered how these moments had also ministered to the Lord.

“Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray Him, objected, Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages. He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. "Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.” John 12:1:3-7.

This passage finally “clicked” for me. While Christ is hanging on the cross taking in His last breaths -- He is inhaling the scent of the expensive perfume that Mary anointed Him with. In those last breaths what He smells is the fragrance of her love, sacrifice and devotion.

As I take in the aroma of her love, it struck me in a whole new way again… how true it is, that we love because He first loved us. This love of hers is only made possible because of His love, sacrifice, and devotion for her and all of His children. Including you and me.

My heart longs to be the kind of woman who uses all that I have to serve Christ. I am grateful that in Christ this is a possible dream. “In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—an aroma redolent with life…“ 2Corinthians2:14-15 (Message)

May the air around you fill with the fragrance of love and life everywhere you go.

Hope by Jan Krist

2009-04-09T08:38:00.001-04:00

Eyes wide open ... Hope, Trust, Faith, and Love

Rockin' at Riley

2009-04-07T10:31:00.008-04:00

Here are a couple of photos of our trip to Riley Children's Hospital. It was Mimi Burns and friends that made all of the arrangements. Steve Tyler and Duane Eby were the motivation and the glue for the effort. The rest of us got to go along for the ride. We had some great and inspiring feedback from some parents about the reactions of their kids. We hopefully made some kids happier than they were before we came. This was certainly an indirect c2g God thing.
... written by Dave Baker

A Womb With a View

2009-03-16T11:24:00.006-04:00

“For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in [the splendor of His] glory.” Colossians 3:3-4 (Amplified)

While watching my daughter’s belly grow, I have a growing sense of how this sanctification process I am going through in Christ is somehow as hidden away as my grandchild is today. Consider the supreme care and thoughtfulness God gave to our physical creation while we were hidden in the womb … “Oh yes, You shaped me first inside, then out; You formed me in my mother's womb. I thank You, High God—You're breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, You know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, You watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before You, the days of my life all prepared before I'd even lived one day.” Psalm 139:13-16 (Message)

I cannot begin to comprehend how He knit together our physical bodies inside our mother’s womb. I am even more mystified by His careful hidden orchestration of our “re-birth and sanctification process” while we are visible here on earth!

“All around us we observe a pregnant creation. The difficult times of pain throughout the world are simply birth pangs. But it's not only around us; it's within us. The Spirit of God is arousing us within. We're also feeling the birth pangs. These sterile and barren bodies of ours are yearning for full deliverance. That is why waiting does not diminish us, any more than waiting diminishes a pregnant mother. We are enlarged in the waiting. We, of course, don't see what is enlarging us. But the longer we wait, the larger we become, and the more joyful our expectancy.” Romans 8:22-25 (Message)

Certainly, our home is filled with anticipation and preparations for the upcoming arrival of my daughter’s child. With the joy there has been pain in the process (as all of us who have been in pregnancy and labor can attest to!) This joy and pain is an obvious parallel to what I encounter in my consecration process -- growth opportunities, often referred to as “hard times” or “difficult circumstances” and joy of His salvation.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1Peter 1:3-9 (NIV)

No matter what “trials” I go through though, graciously, through the Word of God I realize that although I am in the “womb” of being transformed into a new creation in Christ … it is actually a “womb with a view.” In His Word He points to what He is making me into, to what will be revealed on the day of Christ Jesus, and to how certain a fate this is. “There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.” Philippians1:6 (Message)

So all my dear sisters, let’s be happy together that no matter what our age or state of life we are really new creations in Christ!

Charlie's Blankie -- Now I am ready for him to come!

2009-03-13T07:34:00.007-04:00

Charlie has been so blessed to recieve a few blankets already. Including a beautiful crocheted one by my friend & client, Deborah Miller (with darling matching hat & booties!) He also received a sweet blanket with his name embroidered on it from one of Kelsey's friends.

However, this is his very special blankie -- because it is the one that I knitted especially for him. OK, NOW I am ready for him to come!

Recap of c2g Retreat @ Lutherhaven

2009-03-11T11:30:00.008-04:00

Thank you to Tinea Agen and everyone who helped make the Church Retreat @ Lutherhaven possible. It was a great day to connect with God and with each other!

Dave & Janet Baker were gracious to take some candid shots of our adventure together.

Several adults and a few children went paddling out on the icy cold lake. We learned while they were out there that it is better to wait until April to venture out on the water. Good to know for next time! In spite of all of that, they enjoyed the time together on the water immensely!

In true c2g style we made quite a ruckus with a drum circle. I personally have never done anything like that -- it was a blast!

Kids (tall and small) played, laughed and connected to each other. It was a great time of prayer, play, Bible study, discussion and getting to know God and each other. I have been tremendously blessed by that short Saturday adventure!

Will you share a few words about your experience that day?

Daddy Diaper Duty - Don't Choke

2009-03-04T13:01:00.004-05:00

With the impending birth of my daughter's first child, this video just made me laugh... The friend that sent it to me titled it "this is why babies need mothers." What do you think?

Watching this reminded me of that movie line "uh, I just threw up in my mouth a little."

c2g Women's Ministry Events for 2009

2009-03-04T08:46:00.005-05:00

March 21 - 11:00 - 1:00 Book Swap & Sack Lunch

April 25 - 11:00 - 1:00 Apron Making with Amber Drake & Sack Lunch

May (TBA) Letter Carriers Food Drive Assistance Project

June 27 - 11:00 - 1:00 Tastefully Simple Party

July 25 - 11:00 - 1:00 Christmas in July (Clothing/Accessory Swap!) & Sack Lunch

August 29 - 11:00 - 1:00 Recipe Swap & Sack Lunch

September (TBA) Hope Center Service Project

October 24 - 11:00 - 1:00 Card Making & Sack Lunch

December 5 - 11:00 - 1:00 Christmas Tea

At our January meeting the ladies swapped recipes. If you are interested in getting a copy of all the recipes, click here.

Parking Problems

2009-02-26T13:11:00.001-05:00

A friend of mine over at LaBov shared this with me today. The tag line was "Female Drivers" ... you be the judge.

"Green Sleeves" ... Never To Be Sleeveless Again

2009-02-24T15:13:00.005-05:00

Thought you might smile when you see my "newest" creation .... "green sleeves" (giggle...) No longer do we have to use even the 67% post consumer recyclable paper sleeves from Starbucks, when they remember to give them to us...

My friends who are "green-haters" I am sure will give me an eye roll at this silly knitting pun.

Chicks With Sticks ... Yes, I am learning to knit

2009-02-10T07:42:00.007-05:00

If you know me at all, you know I am always in the process of learning something new! Somethings stick - somethings don't. I started to learn how to knit about a month ago, and borrowed several books from the library - including Chicks With Sticks - Guide to Knitting. I am enjoying knitting so much that I think this may be a "keeper." Here is my project gallery of my first three scarves. Kelsey's, Karen's and one I just finished for my mom for Valentine's Day.

Playing For Change: Song Around the World

2009-02-09T11:52:00.001-05:00

One Love ... One Heart ... Let's Get Together

Heads Up - Youth Group Info - '09 Events Mark Your Calendar

2009-02-03T08:42:00.004-05:00

Calling all c2g youth ... We have several opportunities to get together hang out, serve, and do "stuff" thanks to Tinea Agen leading the charge.

Mark your calendar now:

Beginning February 15 - Bring your instruments & voices @ 10:00am on Sundays for band practice.

February 26 - Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, we will help to serve the super meal and provide clean-up time

March 7 - Camp Lutherhaven Retreat - kids & adults invited - lunch provided for $6 each

March 13 - WinterJam @ the Coliseum $10 at the door (save up for this event!)

April 23 - Earth Day, Park Clean Up, 5:00 meet at Johnny Appleseed Park - we may ride bikes to Lawton Park to pick up trash in both parks

May 30 - Lindenwood Hike, 10:30 am - 1:00 pm, hiking & Bible study time in naure

June - Looking for your suggestions

July 16 - Swimming & Canoeing at Chain of Lakes (We need extra adult supervision parents)

August - Assist with the Refugee VBS, we will join the VBS groups to assist with the Burmese

September - Frisbee Golf

October - Prayer Fest at c2g

November 12 - Laser Tag at Ultra Zone, 6-9 pm $10 each

December 10 - Christmas Caroling & Bowling

Naked Lady Party Recap

2009-02-03T07:51:00.002-05:00

Our Ladies luncheon was a huge success! With 25 people in attendance, everyone went home with new items to add to their wardrobe. More importantly, many many bags of clothes were donated to Love Church. Pastor Phil wants me to remind everyone that Love Church has a very active clothing bank. Last year they serviced 2,000 people with needed clothing. They are always in need of children's clothing and ladies size large clothing. They are very grateful for our help. Thank you Ladies!!!

We plan to make this an annual event-so hold onto those unwanted items or feel free to drop them off at Love Church.

A big thank you to Tinea Agen & Christie Badillo for their leadership and coordination of this event.

Conversation with God

2009-01-13T13:33:00.005-05:00

Relationships are built and strengthened while spending time together – sometimes silent, but usually in conversation.

Of the many ways I have heard prayer described; pleading, request, petition, intercession, invocation, appeal, communion, plea, supplication, entreaty, conversation … my favorite description is … divine union.

As I waded into the sea of Scriptures dealing with the concept and practice of prayer I was refreshed with living water.

Click Here to Receive this FREE PDF collection of Scripture references.

Their Eyes Were Watching God

2009-01-09T13:26:00.007-05:00

Image via Wikipedia"According to her autobiography, Zora Neale Hurston wrote Their Eyes Were Watching God in seven weeks while she was conducting ethnographic fieldwork in Haiti and recovering from a failed romance. The circumstances were hardly promising, but the novel, published in September 1937, almost exactly a year after she arrived in Port-au-Prince, is her masterpiece. While it presents diverse oral performances-personal narratives, folktales, courtship rituals, speeches, and sermons-the folk material fuses seamlessly with a formal narrative that charts a woman's coming to voice and to selfhood. The protagonist, Janie Crawford, begins a quest for romance but achieves spiritual fulfillment." (by Cheryl A. Wall, see her full article here.)

Sometimes I stumble upon a book or or an article that has been so obviously put in my path by my Father in Heaven. See lately, I have been hoping and praying to experience (with understanding) the truth of :
"God, my Shepherd! I don't need a thing. Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life." Parts of Psalm 23 (The Message version)

A Psalm my friend Bob encouraged me to meditate on. Some days, I get a glimpse of Him, and other days my eyes are so glazed over from staring at my circumstances and my computer screen that I don't notice much of anything!

I am only 7 chapters into this delightful novel, however, it is speaking to my soul and has captured my imagination! One particular line at the end of the third chapter, has been crowding my thoughts for a few days ... "She knew that God tore down the old world every evening and built a brand new one by sun-up." This one line is rich with symbolism and possibilities. It has so struck me -- that it has led me to pray and ask questions about this beautiful and absurd idea. Consider it and share with me please ... what does this line make you wonder?

As I read, I laugh and shake my head! Janie Crawford and I have much more in common than just our quest for romance ... look for more on that to come soon!

Playing For Change: Song Around the World

2009-01-07T14:11:00.001-05:00

From the award-winning documentary, "Playing For Change: Peace Through Music", comes the first of many "songs around the world" being released independently. This video resonated with my spirit and gave me goose bumps of how connected we are one2another.

Pachelbel Rant

2008-12-17T10:05:00.001-05:00

Besides making me laugh, it was a great reminder of how what is old is new again - more frequently than we even realize!

Choose to Become What You Believe

2008-12-02T12:58:00.006-05:00

“As Jesus left the house, he was followed by two blind men crying out, "Mercy, Son of David! Mercy on us!" When Jesus got home, the blind men went in with him. Jesus said to them, "Do you really believe I can do this?" They said, "Why, yes, Master! He touched their eyes and said, "Become what you believe." It happened.” Matt 9:27-29

Day after day for this long season, I am confronted with these words when I wake in the morning. “Become what you believe.” Tears spring to my eyes as I write those powerful words. I am finding that every minute I am faced with choices.

Choices about what to thoughts entertain. I am learning these thoughts truly do leave my heart and move to my hands and my lips. My actions then becoming a demonstrative testimony of my thoughts.

Do I think and act on the value God tells me I have?

"What's the price of a pet canary? Some loose change, right? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head! So don't be intimidated by all this bully talk. You're worth more than a million canaries." Matt 10:29-31

Do I fully give myself to things that matter to Him and to me?

"Stand up for Me against world opinion and I'll stand up for you before my Father in heaven. If you turn tail and run, do you think I'll cover for you? "Don't think I've come to make life cozy. I've come to cut—make a sharp knife-cut between son and father, daughter and mother, bride and mother-in-law—cut through these cozy domestic arrangements and free you for God. Well-meaning family members can be your worst enemies. If you prefer father or mother over Me, you don't deserve Me. If you prefer son or daughter over me, you don't deserve Me. "If you don't go all the way with Me, through thick and thin, you don't deserve Me. If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself. But if you forget about yourself and look to Me, you'll find both yourself and Me." Matt 10:32-40

Do I act like I am made in the image of love?

"We are intimately linked in this harvest work. Anyone who accepts what you do, accepts Me, the One who sent you. Anyone who accepts what I do accepts my Father, who sent Me. Accepting a messenger of God is as good as being God's messenger. Accepting someone's help is as good as giving someone help. This is a large work I've called you into, but don't be overwhelmed by it. It's best to start small. Give a cool cup of water to someone who is thirsty, for instance. The smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice. You won't lose out on a thing." Matt 10:40-42

What story does your actions tell about you and your thoughts?

Green Wrapping

2008-12-02T11:39:00.002-05:00

For everyone out there looking to reduce & reuse, I found this little video an interesting and easy way to wrap up gifts for this Christmas season!
Furoshiki Gift Wrapping - For more funny movies, click here

Sunny Taylor - Highview Drive

2008-12-01T12:30:00.002-05:00

Went to see Sunny & Hubbie in concert last month - they rocked! Kasey and I loved when they played Stupid Cupid, however, this song happens to be Susan's favorite (and many other people I know have commented how much they enjoy this song) so here it is for you to enjoy...

Come out tonight is open Mic night at 7:30.

Calling Creators ... LOGO CONTEST

2008-11-20T13:42:00.002-05:00

Are you creative? Here is your chance to serve God, support an organization who cares for Orphans & AIDS prevention and show others your great ideas!

Beacon of Hope is holding a Logo Design contest, inviting ANYONE to submit their Logo Design for consideration by the Beacon of Hope International Board of Directors to consider. Check out this contest here: http://samision.blogspot.com/2008/11/calling-creators-logo-contest.html

Bernard Fanning - 'Watch Over Me'

2008-11-13T04:58:00.001-05:00

Getting Younger & Younger

2008-11-04T18:45:00.002-05:00

It’s my birthday this week, something my ‘lil bear (child number #4) enthusiastically looks forward to all year long. Currently she is actively planning for her 7th birthday -- speeding upon us -- only 7 months to go!

This year for my birthday I am choosing to grow younger.

Yes, I said grow younger!

I got the idea from the Word. In particular gems such as, Matthew 18:3, Matthew 19:14, Luke 18:17, Mark 10:15, Romans 8:15, Ephesians 1:5 among others. Over the past few years I think the Holy Spirit is revealing this childlike notion about our relationship (His and mine.) That our relationship is not so completely different from the one I have with my own children.

My children; trust me implicitly to provide for their needs, to be there through all that life throws at them, to ask me questions that I sometimes answer and sometimes don’t, to ignore me when it is convenient and to run to when they need me, never worrying or doubting my love for them.

Sometimes my ‘lil bear crawls up onto my lap to have her back scratched, other times she stands in-front of me defiantly demanding things … like stickers, a cupcake or undivided attention … things that she sees as utterly necessary.

I have her help me in the kitchen, carefully supervising her dumping ingredients in the bowl that we measured together, or turning on the blender, though her “help” makes everything go so much slower. I accept her thoughtful gifts of dandelions or crayon colored pictures, although sometimes I’d rather she spent her time doing something I have already asked of her.

The joys of childhood include:
- reveling in the delight of your parent,
- permitting your parent to do the worrying,
- expecting your parent to provide, love, discipline, and be there -- always,
- and eagerly jumping into one adventure after another.

So this year for my birthday I am choosing to grow younger as I believe His promise with all the childlike faith I have within me… “Then He said: I promise you this. If you don't change and become like a child, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3

Chili Cook Off - Crack Up!

2008-10-21T07:51:00.009-04:00

Last Sunday was the famous c2g Chili Cook Off. Unfortunately I was sick and missed it! (Arg!!) However, I will announce the winner at the end of this funny story Mimi shared with me recently ...

(Warning - This is rated "PG-13" and If you can read this whole story without laughing out loud, then you need to develop a sense of humor. Note: Please take time to read this slowly. If you pay attention to the first two judges, the reaction of the third judge is even better. )

For those of you who have lived in Texas, you know how true this is. They actually have a chili cook-off about the time Halloween comes around. It takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the San Antonio city park. The notes are from an inexperienced chili taster named Frank, who was visiting from Springfield, IL.

Frank: "Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chili cooking contest. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other two judges (native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy and, besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I accepted." Here are the scorecards from the advent: (Frank is Judge #3)

Chili # 1 Eddie's Maniac Monster Chili...
Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.
Judge # 2-- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.
Judge # 3 -- (Frank) What the h*ll is this stuff?! You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put out the flames. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy!

Chili # 2 Austin's Afterburner Chili...
Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2-- Exciting BBQ flavor; needs more peppers to be taken seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they saw the look on my face.

Chili # 3 Ronny's Famous Burn Down the Barn Chili...
Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.
Needs more beans. Judge # 2 -- A beanless chili, a bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting sh*t faced from all of the beer...

Chili # 4 Dave's Black Magic...
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 ---- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish, or other mild foods; not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the barmaid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. That 300-lb. woman is starting to look HOT...just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

Chili # 5 Lisa's Legal Lip Remover...
Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead, and I can no longer focus my eyes. I ripped a** and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chili had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really p*sses me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw those rednecks.

Chili # 6 Pam's Very Vegetarian Variety...
Judge # 1 -- Thin, yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, and garlic. Superb.
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulphuric flames. I sh*t myself when I farted and I'm worried it will eat through the chair! No one seems inclined to stand behind me anymore. I need to wipe my a** with a snow cone.

Chili # 7 Carla's Screaming Sensation Chili...
Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers. Judge # 2 -- Ho-hum; tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment. **I should take note that I am worried about Judge #3. He appears to be in a bit of distress, as he is cursing uncontrollably. Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt. At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop breathing; it's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.

Chili # 8 Karen's Toenail Curling Chili... Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold, but spicy enough to declare its existence. Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild, nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge # 3 farted, passed out, fell over, and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor fella, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?

Drum Roll please ........... the c2g Chili Cook Off Winner is .......... Mary May. Way to go Mary!!!!!

More to Remind Me ... Than To Remind You

2008-10-07T09:26:00.004-04:00

"I look to the hills! Where will I find help?

It will come from the LORD, Who created the heavens and the earth. The LORD is your protector, and He won't go to sleep or let you stumble. The protector of Israel doesn't doze or ever get drowsy. The LORD is your protector, there at your right side to shade you from the sun. You won't be harmed by the sun during the day or by the moon at night. The LORD will protect you and keep you safe from all dangers. The LORD will protect you now and always wherever you go."

Psalm 121

Tear Stained & Trusting

2008-10-06T09:27:00.007-04:00

I gave my heart and offered my soul ... real love, pure, and without reserve. I don't understand the response, but through the tears I am clutching onto this...

"The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3

Maytag Makes Junk

2008-10-01T10:15:00.007-04:00

What a sad day ... Less than 3 years ago, I received a Maytag Neptune Washer. What happy thoughts I had of "Its a Maytag, it will last FOREVER!" What a load of crap.

Within 3 years I have had the Maytag Repair Man out to fix various major issues several times. And now the clutch and the gear box are out -- about a $1,000 repair according to the Maytag Man. Who said shaking his head, "These were manufactured as a piece of crap."

Wow, was he right. I did a little research online and class action lawsuits, as well as comment after comment about how unhappy people have been with their washer. I can see why!

When I called Maytag today to try to ask for some assistance with this difficulty. I was told that "it's just a machine, and they do break." REALLY? An $800 washing machine, and three years later it is no longer usable?? Wow - your marketing suggests otherwise!

I asked in humility for their help. Maytag's response was "sorry - we won't help you." My response to them, was "I will make sure to tell everyone I know what kind of company you are."

Next on the agenda ... forgive Maytag.

Practice Freedom

2008-09-30T10:33:00.003-04:00

"Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you. I am emphatic about this. The moment any one of you submits to circumcision or any other rule-keeping system, at that same moment Christ's hard-won gift of freedom is squandered. I repeat my warning: The person who accepts the ways of circumcision trades all the advantages of the free life in Christ for the obligations of the slave life of the law. I suspect you would never intend this, but this is what happens. When you attempt to live by your own religious plans and projects, you are cut off from Christ, you fall out of grace. Meanwhile we expectantly wait for a satisfying relationship with the Spirit. For in Christ, neither our most conscientious religion nor disregard of religion amounts to anything. What matters is something far more interior: faith expressed in love." Galatians 5:1-3.

I have had some wonderful opportunities recently to trust Christ and the freedom He has given me abundantly. Through the closing of the organization I have worked for the past 17 years. Through the pregnancy of my 17-year old daughter. Through being a single mother of four. Through financial challenges. I have had the many opportunities as you can imagine to: Practice trusting. Practice praising. Practice joy in the midst of difficult circumstances. Practice humility. Practice being carried through the trials of this life. Practice reminding myself of things like "Perfect love drives out fear" and "Jesus promises to sustain me." Practice forgiveness. Practice surrender.

How do you practice freedom as faith expressed in love?

Children Are a Gift From the Lord

2008-09-23T05:24:00.004-04:00

God led me to an opportunity to support this young woman to attend college. $50 per month for four years will give this child of God everything she needs to attend school including housing and books. Giving her a tangible opportunity to attain her dream of becoming a business woman and making a real difference in her community.

Profound Thought -- Karen's Ponderings

2008-09-18T17:49:00.004-04:00

"It would be really cool if I had a head that could see inside my body... then I could see God inside me." — Karen, 6 years

Ice Cream Can Make Anything Better

2008-09-16T17:41:00.002-04:00

Dancing With Jesus

2008-08-15T22:48:00.003-04:00

"One final word, friends. We ask you—urge is more like it—that you keep on doing what we told you to do to please God, not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance." 1Thess 4:1-2

Images From Africa & Susan's Heart - ENJOY!

2008-08-05T16:46:00.006-04:00

A Rare Opportunity

2008-08-04T10:23:00.005-04:00

The African team is home! What a wonderful blessing to receive them back home in one piece and better for their time away with God in South Africa. I received this lovely handwritten letter from Mark to share with you:

"God has given us a tremendous opportunity to serve here in South Africa. The experience has been a graphic example to me of the devastating effects of sin in our lives. The huge number of brand new graves is a grim reminder of the truth of God's word "The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him." Ezekiel 18:20 and "For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind: it hath no stalk; the bud shall yield no meal: if so be it yield, the strangers shall swallow it up." Hosea 8:7. But we also have the promise of God's Word which says, "that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation." Romans 10:9-10.

It has been a rare opportunity to teach in the public schools about HIV/AIDS prevention and at the very same time also give out the gospel of Jesus. To me that demonstrates that the door is now open, but very quickly could also close. Thank you all for your prayers and support. In Christ... Mark"

Nobodies are Somebodies

2008-08-01T07:16:00.004-04:00

"God doesn't count us; He calls us by name"

He says... "I'll call nobodies and make them somebodies. I'll called the unloved and make them beloved. In the place where they yelled out, "You're a nobody!" they're calling you, "God's living children."

"It is in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, He had His eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose He is working out in everything and everyone."

So you somebody you .... I pray the amazing grace of Jesus Christ be with you!

Random Updates from Africa - HIV/AIDS

2008-07-31T14:44:00.005-04:00

The kids that God has allowed Susan to encounter have been so engaged in learning. Most have expressed a great appreciation for the information about how not to contract HIV/AIDS. The students were excited to receive their certificates for completing the program.

Susan sent pictures of one of the HIV/AIDS graveyards she visited. Her comment was that the epidemic has claimed so many lives she cannot count the vast number of sites similar to this one. What struck me about this photo was how many graves had fresh dirt on top of them.

The schools are so very different looking from the ones in our community. The staff doesn't have computers, some of the schools don't even have electricity or indoor plumbing. The chalkboards barely hold onto the walls, and yet the children feel blessed to be there. The children are grateful for their visit and treat the teaching team as if they are rock stars! Susan ask the children to sign her shirt so that she can keep a little part of them with her when she returns home.

The New Child God Gave Susan

2008-07-29T13:54:00.003-04:00

Susan asked me to introduce the newest member of our "family."
Her name is Nompuelelo Buthelezi means "successful."

Nompuelelo was born in 1991 and orphaned when her Mama died in 2000. She has a 14 yr old sister that is away at school. Nompuelelo lives with her Aunt, her mother's sister. Who does not have the means to care for her. She is wearing Susan's cross, it is hard to see, but when Susan gave it to her she said she fell into Susan's arms and cried .. she is precious! She was an orphan but no more she is Susan's daughter!

Just below is Nompuelelo's letter is a tear jerker... word for word - no changes (not even the spelling)

"I'm Nompumelelo Buthelezi and I'm not from a rich family. My Mother died on 2000 16 was Novemeber that time. My dream is to became a business woman I wanna work hard at school for my future. My family members are so hard for me to get a better education. Sometimes there are things that I don't get easier like some of school things. I accept what they give me at home because I know that they don't have enough money to give me everything that I need. But I use to keep all that behind my back all I'm doing is getting prepared for my dream. And I know that one day I will achieve my dreams. And God will lead me to my dreams only if I believe in Him. My sisiters Mother always say one day you will be a successful business woman only if you believe in your self. I always pray to God to be with me everyday and to be with me in eberystaple that I take. My family said to me I must stay away from bad friend's and that what on my mind every when I meet my friend. I am so lucky to have people who still teach me good thing's wile my mother has past away. I sometimes miss her and get angry. Sometimes I use to say God doesn't love me because He took my Mother away from me. But since you came to our school I learnt more and now I understand that God love me and I still have to hold on to my future and do my best to achieve my dreams. One day I will see my self on University of Durban. That when my future is going to light a big flash in my eyes and I will say well come to my future where they will be no tears, no fears, no worries but only blessings of bright an successful future for my self.

Please pray for me. One day I really wannar be a successful business woman. I really wannar be an enterpriniership one day. And by God's way I will.

Thank you all for coming to our school and teaching us with things that happens in our world. May God bless you all."

I pray that you will join me in thanking God for how He has knit these two together in love and that you will ask God to give Susan an even clearer vision as to what He is unfolding for her to do.

The Wedding With 2 Cakes

2008-07-28T11:38:00.006-04:00

So you saw the fabu wedding cake a few days ago... well as promised, I present to you the fabu bride & groom... Mr. & Mrs. Terry Myers (aka Terry & Carrie!)

And here of course is one more look at those amazing cakes!

Sincerest Thanks For Supporting This African Adventure

2008-07-28T10:49:00.004-04:00

Words cannot adequately express the deep appreciation Susan feels for each and every person that supported this African adventure with God. The financial and prayer support which has enabled Susan to meet God in a totally new way.

Susan has been able to see God in the face of a man who finds his meals at the bottom of garbage cans. To see God in the arms of a woman in the last stages of AIDS that spends the moments she is able to be out of bed caring for six children. To see God hands of a couple caring for 700 orphans daily. To see God in the eyes of an orphan girl named Nampoomoolaylo. To see God give the gift of the Holy Spirit to many many people right in front of her eyes.

All of you who have supported her financially and in prayers have truly been used of God and it has been such a blessing! With deep sincerity .... thank you.

Dreams & Purpose

2008-07-23T16:54:00.007-04:00

During class Susan felt prompted to talk with the kids about what they think their purpose in life might be in respect to the life choices they make, what dreams they think God has placed in their hearts. Some of their dreams included:

- Soccer player
- Accountant
- Celebrity
- Social Worker
- Business Woman
- Police Officer
- Miner
- Doctor

In their conversation one young woman asked "How can I attain my dreams, if I have no one to support me?"

Susan expressed how that touched her deep in her soul. That it led her to share how all things are possible through Christ and how everything in Heaven and on Earth is God's and He decides. Susan said to me that she felt as if God was softly nudging her heart about what she said. That since her encounter with this dear soul that she has wondered how will this young woman hold on to that dream if she is left with no hope... wonder what are the odds that she makes good choices and wonder... will she continue to believe that she has something to look forward to — like college.

Having the opportunity to attend college may allow this young woman to realize how valuable she is to her Creator.

I am amazed at how these children have such a lovely response to unlovely circumstances and praise God for it!

Stickers, Students, & Seeds

2008-07-22T10:32:00.006-04:00

The teaching team includes Susan, Tshegofal-so, Jabu, Lebogang, and Zodwa. Each day they meet with the students to learn from them and to discuss how not to contract HIV/AIDS. The students were asked to write some of their questions, and here were just a few:

Q: Can you get AIDS if you drink after someone?
Q. What peoples get HIV?
Q. How can you see if you have HIV?
Q. You said the condoms have holes in them, so if you have sex will you get pregnant or not?
Q. I (heart) u! Will you be my friend?
Q. In America how do you treat HIV?
Q. Do you get HIV if you kiss a long time?
Q. But once you are into this "thing" there is no way out - what must I do?

When the class was finished Susan passed out stickers, the students were so thrilled to have the stickers and swarmed her for them! Susan remarked about how fortunate and blessed we are in the United States, that the conditions we live in are remarkably comfortable compared to the conditions these students encounter. It was a source of encouragement to her.

In our conversation I could hear the seeds of hope of what God might be planting in her for the future. She spoke of continuing to pray over an idea that she thinks may be from the God to help these children continue to college. More on that in our next post!

Learning How to Really Praise Jesus

2008-07-21T10:40:00.004-04:00

The air was filled with electric excitement -- all because of Jesus! Sunday Susan spent the day learning how to really praise Jesus - her new African friends taught her as they danced, swayed with raised hands, sang, confessed sin, and SHOUTED PRAISES to our Amazing King!

She was overwhelmed with the love and faith displayed by the people she encountered. People who trust God just to be able to continue to exist today. People who are so amazingly grateful for every single blessing they receive.

At the tent revival meeting she attended more than 40 people went forward to receive Jesus. At one of the church meetings a woman stepped to the microphone and bared her sin of drug use earlier that week and gave thanks for Jesus' forgiveness. The common occurrence at each of the three services she attended was that it was really about worshiping God, singing and praising - people from the crowd going to the microphone to share what God had taught them or how God had cared for them that week ... that the pastor's message was a very very brief one at the end of the service, not the central component of the service. It was a refreshing time of happy holy moments.

Hostess Wedding Cake & Super Sweet Celebration

2008-07-21T09:48:00.004-04:00

Hands down this is the most unique wedding I have ever been to! It was truly a creative celebration in Christ. Carrie & Terry were united as one in Christ next to a small waterfall. Among children running, wiggling and jumping - snow cones, pizza and a ginormous hostess wedding cake. The carnival atmosphere made me smile! Although I am minus pictures of the bride & groom in this entry. I plan to upload them as soon as I receive them!

Update on African Mission - They Have Arrived

2008-07-18T07:48:00.004-04:00

The African Mission team has arrived safe & sound after a 19 hour flight! Susan says the ocean view is gorgeous where they are at!

"Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying:
“ Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” Isaiah 6:8

Sarah's Story ... Teenage Daughter's Pregnancy ... the Power of Christ in Crisis

2008-07-14T21:04:00.006-04:00

My friend Sarah sent this to me last night ... I hope it encourages you as it has encouraged me!

"God uses crises in our lives to fulfill his purpose, if we only step outside ourselves to see it. Think about all of the "stumbling blocks" in our lives that are actually God's way of opening our eyes to his ever-redeeming love.

Several months ago, my teenage daughter came to me with the news most parents fear hearing "I'm pregnant". I always imagined how I would feel if I heard those words, but no amount of preconceived notions prepared me for reality. First I stood in disbelief.... then anger.... and then I was heartsick. The only words I was able to utter were "just leave me alone for a minute".

Before I became a Christ follower, I would have responded much differently, however my own sinfulness still made me think "what will people think of me as a parent?" Those few precious moments after the news, I got out my bible and sat quietly in reflection and prayer. I asked God to help me respond the way he wanted instead of the way I wanted. What came to me in those moments surprised me quite a bit. I was shown how, over the years, my own judgment on the parents of teenage moms was not very Christ-like. Or, that instead of looking on every pregnancy, and every infant... no matter what circumstances they were born under, was a gift from God. EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE! What was shown to me in those minutes after the news was that I was raised by my grandmother, because my mom was also a pregnant teen, and how alone my mom must have felt. As a walk along side my daughter, instead of feeling embarrassment... Jesus is walking along side us cradling my daughter in his arms. When we get "not so nice" stares from other people... I remember that it is not the opinion of others that makes us worthwhile, but the strength that Christ gives us through trials and life's circumstances, if we only turn to Him for guidance.

I thank God for being there for me after I heard the news of my daughters pregnancy. I know that He is with us no matter what mistakes we make in our lives, and no one is outside the realm of forgiveness. I ask and pray that we can all look on our brothers and sisters as made in God's image, and that any birth as a celebration.. no matter what the circumstances!!!!!!! We are anxiously awaiting the birth of our grandchild, as a creation of Christ and ask for your prayers that my daughter gets through her pregnancy with little stress and forever gratefulness!!!!!"

Sarah, you and your family are in my prayers, and each time you come to my mind I thank God for you!

Give It Up ... Give It Over

2008-07-11T12:00:00.002-04:00

I was going to explain how our Father keeps giving me opportunities to give things over to Him. How He also allows me to witness friends in the same place, facing opportunities to surrender to Him. But everything I could think of to say has already been said by Paul and Keb Mo...

"I've tried everything and nothing helps. I'm at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn't that the real question?

The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different.
With the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, that fateful dilemma is resolved. Those who enter into Christ's being-here-for-us no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud. A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death.

God went for the jugular when he sent his own Son. He didn't deal with the problem as something remote and unimportant. In his Son, Jesus, he personally took on the human condition, entered the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all. The law code, weakened as it always was by fractured human nature, could never have done that.

The law always ended up being used as a Band-Aid on sin instead of a deep healing of it. And now what the law code asked for but we couldn't deliver is accomplished as we, instead of redoubling our own efforts, simply embrace what the Spirit is doing in us.

Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them—living and breathing God! Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life. Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing. And God isn't pleased at being ignored.

But if God himself has taken up residence in your life, you can hardly be thinking more of yourself than of him. Anyone, of course, who has not welcomed this invisible but clearly present God, the Spirit of Christ, won't know what we're talking about. But for you who welcome him, in whom he dwells—even though you still experience all the limitations of sin—you yourself experience life on God's terms. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he'll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ's!

So don't you see that we don't owe this old do-it-yourself life one red cent. There's nothing in it for us, nothing at all. The best thing to do is give it a decent burial and get on with your new life. God's Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go!

This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike "What's next, Papa?" God's Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what's coming to us—an unbelievable inheritance! We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with him, then we're certainly going to go through the good times with him!" Romans 7:24,25 - 8:17

So I suppose all there is left to do is give it up ... give it over ... What do you think?

Meet the South Africa Mission Team....

2008-07-03T09:46:00.000-04:00

Small team, but mighty in the Lord! Meet the three saints that are going off to experience God in South Africa in just two weeks.

Glynn Smith, mission trip leader and SAMission Board Member, bringing AIDS education to Africa. Glynn is coordinating all aspects of this tactical effort to teach twelve schools again this year.

Mark Carey, long time friend and bible study partner for about eight or ten years of Glenn's. Mark lives in Long Beach California with wife Kathy. They have three children all married and there are at least a handful of grandchildren.

Susan O’Hara who Glenn met indirectly through attending the same International AIDS seminar at Saddleback church two years ago. Susan wanted to go with us last year but was not able to because of family circumstances.

The Good news . . . . . Initially a little disappointing that they only have a three-person team going from the USA this year, especially after the ten-adult and eight-teenager team from last year. Anyway they just accepted that this is God’s plan for this year and started to plan accordingly. The good news is that they are still going to teach twelve schools again this year even with our reduced contingent from America. This means that our local partners are starting to take this program over and make it their own. This is what needs to happen:

Support this trip . . . . With two and a half weeks left before we leave we are still a little short of their trip support goal. If you are able or feel led to support this trip, your contribution would be most helpful. God has never left us short and we know that whatever he provides will be sufficient.

Support an Orphan . . . . If you are not already sponsoring a child, we have two hundred children from Richards Bay on the sponsorship list with Horizon International. There are probably about a hundred and fifty of those kids that still need sponsors for $35 per month.

Be a Monthly donor . . . . Because of a handful of donors making monthly pledges to SAM we are now able to start helping some of our partners in Richards Bay. Some like Kenny just unselfishly working for the Lord and trusting that he will provide. Then there is Clement and Thuli that have taken on the responsibility of caring for all those kids in need.

For more information contact me.

$10 Starbucks Card Award - For First Sighting Of ...

2008-06-26T17:03:00.001-04:00

In the past 2 weeks, there have been AT LEAST 3 sightings of this woman with toliet paper "stuck" to various body parts or items of clothing on this woman....

I will award a $10 Starbucks Gift Card to the first person who gets a picture of the next sighting and sends it to me...

Lean Six Sigma Training - The TQM Difference

2008-06-20T10:17:00.001-04:00

Friends of Youth Banquet 6/28

2008-06-12T19:12:00.000-04:00

Kasey's Summer Coiffure

2008-06-07T16:48:00.000-04:00

Shots, Uprising & Praying About Africa

2008-06-07T09:11:00.000-04:00

So many reasons to pray about Africa this week! We learned about a significant uprising in the area that Susan will be flying into. Last word is that 62 are dead, 670 injured, 1,433 are currently in detention and more than 16,000 people are displaced. Read more about this story here or here.

Susan began her series of shots that will continue over the next six months. She got her first shot "cocktail" yesterday ... and told me it is "ouchy!"

Will you join us in continuing to pray for God's provision for this trip, that her shot series goes well - with no side effects - and for all of those in Johannesburg, South Africa that have been through such horrific xenophobic attacks?

Verizon Karaoke Contest - Step Up to the Microphone!

2008-06-05T08:30:00.000-04:00

$7,500 - FIRST PLACE PRIZE!

Preliminary Rounds to be held at:

Tower Bar & Grill - Saturday, June 7 @ 8:00 pm
O'Sullivans - Tuesday, June 10 @ 8:00 pm
Wrigley Field - Tuesday, June 10 @ 8:00 pm
412 Club - Tuesday, June 10 @ 8:00 pm
Come2Go Church - Wednesday, June 18 @ 7:30 pm
Mid City Grill - Friday, June 20 @ 8:00 pm
O'Sullivans - Saturday, June 21 @ 8:00 pm
Come2Go Church - Wednesday, June 25 @ 7:30 pm
The Latern - Thursday, June 26 @ 7:00 pm

Top 4 winners from each night will proceed to the Semi-Finals at the Verizon Event Pavilion at the Fort Wayne Newspapers Three Rivers Festival on Friday, July 11. Semi Finals starts at 6:00 pm.

The Top 5 winners from the Semi-Finals will proceed to the Finals at the Verizon Event Pavilion at the Fort Wayne Newspapers Three Rivers Festival on Friday, July 18. Finals starts at 6:45 pm.

Contestants will be judged on a 10 point scale in the following categories:
- Vocal talent
- Performance (showmanship)
- Knowledge of Song
- Audience Response

Prizes on Finals Night:
- First Place = $7,500 cash
- Second Place = $1,500 cash
- Third Place = $1,000 cash

See Susan Fly With Jesus

2008-05-28T10:41:00.000-04:00

My oh my - this girl is crazy! Susan went up 2,000 feet, flapped her arms, talked to Jesus and almost rocked herself to a plunging death. Apparently while up 2,000 feet (flapping and chatting away) she discovered how fun it was to rock back and forth on the extremely thin strap wrapped around her booty ... which totally freaked out the Parasail professionals driving the boat.

Thankfully Christ saw fit to return her home in one piece. Susan's Place in the Sky, 2000 miles high!

Karen Graduates!

2008-05-22T19:18:00.000-04:00

Congratulations Karen! Great Job on Graduating from Kindergarten. Look Out First Grade!!!

Unique

2008-05-19T18:54:00.001-04:00

Are you His?

"He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join Him in the work He does, the good work He has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing." Ephesians 2:10

"Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function" Romans 12:4

So although I have NO idea what He made duck billed platypuses for .... or stinkbugs .... or even, you -- I say embrace it and do what He has just for you. Go be the uniquely made vessel He is making you into ... do what He has for you to do because it is meant to be useful somehow, even if we can't figure it out!

And if you think of it, drop me a line about your adventure.

Lessons in Flying

2008-05-13T13:13:00.000-04:00

Jumped, stumbled or pushed? Some of us choose to leap into challenges, others stumbled into them and once in awhile we all have been pushed into hard uncomfortable places. However it is that you find yourself free falling through the air with Jesus consider this...

"...those who trust the LORD will find new strength. They will be strong like eagles soaring upward on wings..."

Answer this question:
Does the God who lavishly provides you with his own presence, His Holy Spirit, working things in your lives you could never do for yourselves, does He do these things because of your strenuous moral striving or because you trust Him to do them in you? Don't these things happen among you just as they happened with Abraham? He believed God, and that act of belief was turned into a life that was right with God. Is it not obvious to you that persons who put their trust in Christ (not persons who put their trust in the law!) are like Abraham: children of faith? It was all laid out beforehand in Scripture that God would set things right with non-Jews by faith. Scripture anticipated this in the promise to Abraham: "All nations will be blessed in you." So those now who live by faith are blessed along with Abraham, who lived by faith—this is no new doctrine! And that means that anyone who tries to live by his own effort, independent of God, is doomed to failure." ... Or in the "cliff notes" version: SPLAT!

So as you find yourself free falling or if you are more aware than myself ... and actually see the upcoming cliff that you are getting ready to fall from, I encourage you to embrace your lesson in flying and enjoy the view!

Love This

2008-05-12T06:42:00.001-04:00

Way to Go - Come2Grow Kids!

2008-05-06T07:52:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Quinton, Diego, Clarity, Olivia & Sierra for memorizing your verse. Your names have been written in the Come2Grow Kids Scroll and your reward of "big chocolate" was certainly well earned!

Good Job!
Thanks Kali for writing the names so beautifully on the Come2Grow Scroll.

Carrie Get's Inked

2008-05-05T10:52:00.000-04:00

"You (Carrie) yourselves are all the endorsement we need. Your very lives are a letter that anyone can read by just looking at you. Christ himself wrote it—not with ink, but with God's living Spirit; not chiseled into stone (or flesh), but carved into human lives—and we publish it."2Corinthians 3:3

My sweet sister Carrie has been a lovely opportunity for me to watch Jesus' action in and through. My guess is that few miss that Carrie is Alive in Adonai ... however, this statement will speak to even those who somehow might have missed it on her face.

If you know Carrie at all, you know she is almost always praying. However, I just had to share this especially tender moment of prayer between her and God.

Happy Birthday 6th Baby Bear!!!

2008-05-02T10:46:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to You
Happy Birthday to You
Happy Birthday Baby Bear
Happy Birthday to You!!!!

Wow -- 6 years old already -- my does time fly!!!

Congratulations on making it though your birthday party last night ...

Thumbs Up

2008-04-30T21:01:00.001-04:00

digg this... you can love yourself ( Keb Mo )

Impact Mentoring - Invest In Our Children

2008-04-29T13:05:00.000-04:00

A Community Action Meeting will be held Wednesday, May 7 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm at come2go Ministries, 323 Baker Street. This is your chance to learn more about how you can invest in the lives of elementary and middle school children. Learn more about the needs, the program and the small commitment.

Rev. Robert Smith, Director of Pastoral Ministries for Taylor University will be our guest speaker and Pastor Quincy McGhee will unfold more about this wonderful opportunity to invest in our community.

For more information contact Pastor Quincy at 260-426-6464.

Peace in the Streets Rally

2008-04-23T06:58:00.001-04:00

In the wake of 9 shooting homicides in a week and one stabbing death on our college campus the response is:

“Peace In The Streets Rally”
Saturday, April 26, 2008
11:15am – Gather at the corner of Anthony St. and McKinnie Ave.
12:00pm – March to Anthony St. & U.S. 27 (McDonald’s parking lot)
Citilink will be available for those who cannot complete the 2.5 mile march

Fantastic Performances at Recent c2g Concert

2008-04-21T17:34:00.000-04:00

Here is what I heard about the recent concert at c2g:

"Man WHAT an Evening @ C2G!!! Sunday, April 13, 2008. A date I will remember for a Long Time! Man Sunny T & Rach singing together once again! Takes me back to the ole Toast n JAM days.Back to c2g: Sunny was On & Rocked - Rachael was Incredible & Steppin' In It was Over The Top!!!
Like - S.I.I.'s performance was beyond descriptive words!!! Check-Out 'some' Photos:

Thanks To Drew Allegre!!! These are HIS Photos -
It is wonderful that he shares with us! Good Job Drew!

HUGE Thanks to c2g for allowing these grand shows at their wonderful church!!!
Man you just couldn't ask for a better venue! Thanks especially to the musicians for sharing their art and their immense talents with us!"

Link to web page with Sun. 4-13, 08 C2G Photos.
http://bacchanal.zenfolio.com/f950412101/ Just Click On Link : Then Scroll Down to Bottom of Page :

ALSO : Sunny Taylor With a few including Rachael are @
http://bacchanal.zenfolio.com/p14057570/

Rach & Rachael with Dominic & with Joe :
http://bacchanal.zenfolio.com/p363433913/

Africa on Susan's Mind

2008-04-18T10:34:00.000-04:00

This is the orphanage that Susan will be visiting in Africa - at least one of what they hope will be more buildings on 5 acres of land. Many children show up every day to be fed. Children that are caring for other children - that they don't have room to house, show up each day for sustenance and to see the love of God. These children live wherever they can find covering, cars - bridges - etc... Children as young as my son Kasey caring for groups of younger children, orphaned because of HIV/AIDS and war.

Every dollar raised above the amount Susan needs for her air fare will go to support this mission. Will you partner will her?

Found Keys!

2008-04-15T18:44:00.000-04:00

The other day I lost my credit card, and in the process of looking for that, I found my keys!
I even found my credit card! How cool is that? A twofer!

Profound thought that I unlocked in it ... Nothing is hidden from Him.

Practical thought Susan relayed to me ... We should get a hook to hang my keys on.

Captivating!

2008-04-12T11:56:00.001-04:00

Love stories are alluring. We are fascinated to watch the pursuit of the object of another person’s love. Let me share a few of the love stories that I have stumbled upon that are fascinating me recently…

Solomon’s Story:
In the movie Blood Diamond, the fisherman father after escaping his captors sets out on a pilgrimage of love. First tracking down his family who are now hostages of a refugee camp to learn that his son has been forced at 12 to become a soldier. Solomon the fisherman willingly accepts every risk and sacrifice to bring forth freedom for those he adores. The line in the movie that moved me down deep in the core of my being was when he with quiet strength said “I am his father, and I am going to find my son.” When he does finally find his son – a child who is now addicted to a life of drugs, violence and killing. Instead of Solomon leaving his son … he gives his very life to set him free.

Martin’s Story:
The life of Martin Luther King Jr., who was so compelled by love for others that he set aside all reason and safety to do whatever was within his power to change the paradigms of those around him. In love he admonished and inspired radical change to bring about the end of segregation. His pursuit of love and his dream encourages my dreams.

Georgia’s Story:
Whenever I listen to “Love Song” by Third Day it reminds me of a silly sweet romantic comedy I watched with my daughter, Last Holiday. Georgia Byrd lives a small life tucked inside big dreams when she learns she only has a few weeks to live. Her response is to embark on a radical adventure to live out all her dreams. In the midst of this, the man who has secretly fallen in love with her pursues her across the ocean, over the mountains and up to the top ledge of a multi-story building to say … “I love you, and I want to spend whatever time God will allow me to have with you … whether it is five minutes or fifty years.”

Jeanne’s Story:
The life of Madam Jeanne Marie Bouvier de la Motte Guyon who’s love pursuit and practice of union with her creator was her life’s mission. In pursuing the object of her affection she was persecuted, branded a heretic and then held captive in the French prison the Bastille, then again later in both the castles of Oloron and of Lourdes. Guyon was imprisoned for teaching others to listen in prayer more than speak and spend time focusing on God rather than religion. As she wrote in one of her poems later in her life: "There was a period when I chose, a time and place for prayer ... But now I seek that constant prayer, an inward stillness known ..."

His Story:
The lyrics of Third Day’s “Love Song” I mentioned above shares a piece of the love story of Jesus in just a few very short verses. I find the bridge challenging to sing every time I hear it – since it is to be sung by Jesus, not me:
“I know that you don't understand
the fullness of My love
How I died upon the cross for your sins
And I know that you don't realize
how much that I gave you
But I promise, I would do it all again.

Just to be with you, I've done everything
There's no price I did not pay
Just to be with you, I gave everything
Yes, I gave my life away.”

Oh my! The truth of these words illuminates how His love is so captivating to me! I don’t understand it, yet, I am absolutely mesmerized by it.

Do you have love stories that captivate you? Will you share them with me???

He Pours Into Me --- Past Overflowing

2008-04-11T22:16:00.001-04:00

New Fella in Our Lives -- Ah...Puppy Love

2008-04-09T05:57:00.000-04:00

Meet Dolche' Je T'aime (French for sweet love) ... otherwise known as Dusty.

He is an adorable Briard (a French Sheep Dog) born on January 19th and adopted by Susan & Bobbie this past Monday.

Welcome Dusty ... you are in for more love than you could have ever imagined!

Losing Keys

2008-04-03T21:06:00.000-04:00

“I’ve been losing lots of keys lately, I don’t know what that means... But maybe I’ve been better off with things that can’t be locked at all”

I love music, and of course as a lover of words, the lyrics stimulate me. These lyrics by Jack Johnson hit a place inside me.

It's common for people to carry around keys for all the locks in their lives; doors, drawers, vehicles, cabinets and boxes. Sometimes I muse about how metaphorical these keys can be.

About a month ago, I lost my car keys – I am still waiting for them to turn up.

It’s odd … recently I had someone tell me they thought I just wasn’t comfortable living in the “tension” between two different states of being. Strangely, I see myself as a person who lives quite comfortably in the tension. Whether it was the three years of living in the unresolved state of my father’s murder and residue of his life … or the 40+ years of unresolved dilemma of my mother’s anorexia … or the six years of the unresolved state of a marriage that never was one … or the eight years of being misunderstood by some of the people who were supposed to be the closest to me in Christ. In the voids Christ was amplified. Him revealing more of Himself to me in and through each of these states of “unresolved tension” has given me joy that has nothing to do with my circumstances or even the people God has wandering next to me.

I guess I will just wait to see what the Holy One in me reveals about this idea of where I am at with “living in the tension” … keeping my eyes open for Him.

When I think about my missing keys, I just smile and think … ah, they’ll turn up if God wants them to. Hope they unlock something profound.

jamie = je t'aime

2008-04-03T09:55:00.000-04:00

Thumbnails
Strummed Chords
Big Brown Eyes wide open
Tarbaby Feet
Exotic

Brunette
Complex Perplexing
Beauty Follows Her Wherever
She Goes
Blonde

Fragrant
Lyrical Musings
Words Free Fall From Fingers
Spirit Moved
Organic

Steeped
Sweet Tea
Encouragement By the Spoonful
Inspired Trust
Childlike

Dreamy
Lost Keys
Runs Right Into Wall
Broken Toes
Passionate

Idealist
Champion Cause
Love One Another Recklessly
Falls Short
Graced

Beautiful Music - Beautiful Souls

2008-03-30T22:09:00.000-04:00

Thank you to the Mimi Burns Band for their beautiful music, chemistry and melodies on Friday. Also, thank you to the Warbird Brewery for not just hosting this sweet time of music but also for the very first dark beer that I have ever allowed to pass my lips. Shanty Irish rocks.

The Mimi Burns Band will be playing on April 11th at 7:00pm at the Co-Op for a Fundraiser for Eagle Creek.

Lyrics that resonate

2008-03-29T23:21:00.000-04:00

"I'm a new soul... I came to this strange world... Hoping I could learn a bit bout how to give and take... But since I came here, felt the joy and the fear... Finding myself making every possible mistake.

I'm a young soul in this very strange world hoping I could learn a bit about what is true and fake. But why all this hate? Try to communicate. Finding trust and love is not always easy to make. ” Lyrics from yael naim's song New Soul

Of course some would say this song only resonates with me because it is on the latest mac commercial. However, it is really the lyrics that ring with me. How about you?

la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la...

Susan's Planned Adventure in Africa

2008-03-25T21:10:00.000-04:00

As part of the mission Susan is undertaking in July to Africa she will have the adventure of visiting Horizon International. A non-profit relief and development organization dedicated to caring for orphans affected by HIV/AIDS. They serve these orphans and their communities regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. Enabling them to break the cycle of poverty and live free from the bonds of poverty and disease.

To check out the experience of Horizon go to:
http://horizoninternationalinc.com/index.html

Precious?

2008-03-22T20:26:00.001-04:00

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also...

God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Who or what could be more precious or worthy of our pursuit?

Sex and the Single Christian - Living in Reality

2008-03-12T06:05:00.000-04:00

"Hearts speak and spirits ask and flesh cries out. The body and the soul and the brain and the heart and thoughts and feelings are all merged into one being we call a person." Rob Bell, Sex God

Being single hasn't taken away my libido. Yet, I am fully aware and in awe of God's truth: "Honor marriage, and guard the sacredness of sexual intimacy between wife and husband. God draws a firm line against casual and illicit sex." Hebrews 13:4.

So what is a girl to do? Sew her knees together? Put on sackcloth and throw ashes on her head? Instead I am going to rely on Jesus;

"With the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, that fateful dilemma is resolved. Those who enter into Christ's being-here-for-us no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud. A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death. God went for the jugular when he sent his own Son. He didn't deal with the problem as something remote and unimportant. In his Son, Jesus, He personally took on the human condition, entered the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all. The law code, weakened as it always was by fractured human nature, could never have done that.The law always ended up being used as a Band-Aid on sin instead of a deep healing of it. And now what the law code asked for but we couldn't deliver is accomplished as we, instead of redoubling our own efforts, simply embrace what the Spirit is doing in us." Romans 8:1-4.

Do you have a better suggestion?

The Smell of God -- Baby Grace

2008-03-10T15:16:00.000-04:00

Susan and I are in the process of sitting before our Father... praying about her trip to Africa this July. As we were discussing this yesterday Susan was sharing her heart to hold and love on babies. She told me of a feeling or thought she has had since she was a little girl ... that she might be given the opportunity to care for a child or children that weren't her biological children. As she anticipates going to Africa her hope is that she will be able to hold and love on some of the orphaned children.

Sunday morning we were blessed to hold Mimi's sweet baby May during Bible study. Susan kept her on her lap almost the entire hour, swaddled in her blanket. Considering the opportunities that might lay before her in Africa. The children she might meet, the friends she may be blessed to make. Breathing deep May's sweet baby smell, a scent straight from our heavenly Father. (okay, Mimi just changed her right before hand :)

While I was watching Susan take joy in just 'being' with May on her lap, I thought of our favorite new perfume. Baby Grace. What could smell better than just being baby grace?

Susan still needs financial support to make this mission a reality. If you are interested in supporting her contact me and I will connect you two.

Questions

2008-03-08T16:15:00.001-05:00

All day long I field questions. I often wonder, what makes me qualified to answer some of the questions asked of me. I suppose it is that I am willing to answer, or maybe it is because I am the mom, or maybe it is because I am the one who has been around the longest – both at the office and at the house. I am not sure that actually qualifies me, however, maybe it does.

Here are a few questions I have been asked or heard in the past few months:
Why do you think God made people?
How did God start?
What is heaven?
Is heaven truly wonderful?
How big is God?
How did He come alive?
What does He smell like?
Why doesn’t He have everybody believe in Him?
How is He with us wherever we go?
How come He doesn’t get rid of the devil?
How is He everywhere?
What color is God?
How old is God?
What does He wear?
Why can’t we see Him?
How does God stand it when He sees how we treat each other?

Some times questions can be fun … even exciting. Some times questions can cause you just to have more questions.

Interesting to me is that Jesus often opened dialogues with questions or began teaching with questions. However, today I have experienced some “religiosity” that discourages questions or investigating. I just wonder if this is truly godly?

At any rate, I figure God is big enough to hear my questions, my kids questions, my friends questions and Christ’s enemies questions, and decide whether or not he wants to answer them. What do you think?

His Poema ... A Masterpiece by the Master

2008-03-08T15:55:00.000-05:00

"Every poem can be considered in two ways--as what the poet has to say, and as a thing which he makes." -- CS Lewis

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them."

Now God has us where He wants us, with all the time in this world and the next to shower grace and kindness upon us in Christ Jesus. Saving is all His idea, and all His work. All we do is trust Him enough to let him do it. It's God's gift from start to finish! We don't play the major role. If we did, we'd probably go around bragging that we'd done the whole thing! No, we neither make nor save ourselves. God does both the making and saving. He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work He does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing.

That's plain enough, isn't it? You're no longer wandering exiles. This kingdom of faith is now your home country. You're no longer strangers or outsiders. You belong here, with as much right to the name Christian as anyone. God is building a home. He's using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what He is building.

Africa On Susan's Mind

2008-03-03T21:54:00.000-05:00

My sister in Christ, Susan sent this to me tonight...

"I cannot shake from my memory, one poor grandmother living with her daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren (under the age of eight) I learned about at the Global AIDS Summit in 2006. Over a short period of time both parents contracted and died of HIV/AIDS. The grandmother was forced to climb on top of the cities garbage dump and sift through the trash looking for plastic bags to recycle. She would spend the day in the trash to receive pennies for the few plastic bags she was fortunate enough to find. The bags were dripping with filth yet she carried them in her hands as if they were gold. The food that she was able to purchase was only enough for one meal and it was divided between the three children, she often went hungry. Every time I am handed a plastic bag at the grocery store, my mind is triggered to the memory of the grandmother’s face, of desperation — looking for one more plastic bag. This grandmother and her dedication to loving her little family moved me beyond comfort into heartache.

I have tried to shake the memories of the heart breaking stories I watched and heard two years ago at the Global Summit on AIDS in California. The children, their sad eyes and their tear stained faces. About the time I think I just may have buried their faces somewhere so deep within me………… I find Africa is on my mind again.

So here it has come to pass, I have an opportunity to go to Richards Bay South Africa for two weeks this July, with a group called SAMission that I was connected with through the 2006 Global Summit on AIDS and the Church. You can read more about the details of their missionary activity at www.samissionorg .

We are leaving in July; however, I need to collect $2,050.00 by the end of March to enable me to make a definite commitment to go and to pay for my airfare by March 28th. The mission trip’s total cost per person is approximately $3,300.00. Would you be willing to help me fulfill a dream for me to experience God’s love in going to Africa and allow me to love my neighbors that have buried themselves some where in my heart?

Thank you for you consideration, Susan O’Hara-Osborne"

If you have any interest in supporting this endeavor to love on our Neighbors in Africa, contact me and I will connect you to Susan. peace, jamie

Rays Flashed From His Hand

2008-03-03T09:33:00.000-05:00

“His splendor was like the sunrise; rays flashed from His hand, where His power was hidden.” Habakkuk 3:4

Most every morning begins the same way. Karen crawls over me in bed, (oooh, ouch, whoa, watch it) and gets right into my face and says in a very loud urgent whisper, "Mommy, can we say Good Morning to Jesus yet?" After we have said our good morning prayer she bounces down off of my bed and throws back the curtains. While I ask her “What color did Jesus make the sunrise today?”

Karen is quite the reporter on this magnificent event. Some days are “pink” and other days are “orange” and once in awhile it is “pink and orange with yellow.” If we have gotten up later than usual, she will tell me that the sunrise is “blue.” Now that it is later in the year, she usually reports that the sunrise is “black!” Armed with this breaking news, Karen often goes off to find her siblings to let them know exactly what color Jesus made the sunrise that day.

I find it a sweet joy each morning to participate in this daily celebration. The dependable splendid sunrise is a shadow of the one we have prayed to … our faithful Jesus, “He is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth.” 2Samuel 23:4

I hope the next time you catch the sunrise, you take time to notice the colors and dwell upon the Lord’s faithfulness.

2008-02-29T08:28:00.000-05:00

“But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 1Corinthians 13:13

A diamond possesses a strength far surpassing that of any other known substance in nature, a durable gem that also has a high degree of transparency. A diamond’s fiery brilliance makes it cherished above all other gemstones by most people — in fact diamonds occupy a position of incomparable marketplace demand.

I ask you to look closely at love. Maybe you will see what Henry Drummond showed me, that it is very similar to a diamond. Love has nine “facets” — each of the elements may seem common enough, and any one of these can be practiced by anyone, any-where, in any situation or time. Yet together they are brilliant, cherished, and in a position of incomparable demand in every human life. That if continually and devotedly practiced a person will possess a strength of character that will far surpass the strengths of any other.

Facet #1, Patience — Love is patient, not in a hurry, but waits to do it’s work when the time comes. In this push button, drive thru, instantaneously gratifying world we live in, patience is generally seen with disdain. Can we be so meek and loving as to wait on someone else?

Facet #2, Kindness — Love is kind, and active. Jesus showed us how to love with simple kindnesses. Henry Drummond encourages us to “lavish love on the poor, where it is very easy, and especially upon the rich, who often need it most. But most of all lavish love upon our equals, where it is very difficult, and for whom perhaps we each do least of all.”

Facet #3, Generosity — Love is not jealous, and does not envy. We live in a highly competitive world, even among “Christian do-gooders” we find ourselves often in competition. If you look around to see what others are doing, you will likely find many doing it better than you. If you can learn from them, or better yet, collaborate with them, it is less likely you will envy them. Whatever the case, generously love them all and thank the Lord for them.

Facet #4, Humility — Love does not brag and is not arrogant. In Henry’s day he said to “put a seal upon your lips and forget what you have done,” today I see this as “super glue your lips shut and have a senior moment.” But more than that, let go of even the “self-satisfaction” of whatever love deed you have done. Let the deed be treasure stored up with God in heaven for your eternity, rather than treasure for you to revel in and count on here.

Facet #5, Courtesy — Love does not act unbecomingly. The true secret to being polite, courteous or considerate is to love. “Love in the “little things.” Have we forgotten the meaning of a “gentleman?” A man who behaves, gently, with love. That is the whole art and mystery of it.

Facet #6, Unselfishness — Love does not seek its own. In this country and progressive society we have been taught to be greatly concerned with our “rights.” However, there comes a time when we should exercise an even greater right — not to seek our rights at all. Christ teaches us that anyone who wants to be great must be the servant. It is summed up in Acts 20:35 “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Facet #7, Good temper — Love is not provoked. Oh this is a remarkable facet! As James Clayton put it “If religion has done nothing for your temper, then it has done nothing for your soul.” Scripture condemns ill temper over and over again; one example is the older brother of the Prodigal son. Henry Drummond speaks of bad temper as an intermittent fever or disease deep within, that an occasional bubble escapes to the surface that betrays some rottenness underneath … jealousy, anger, pride, stinginess, cruelty, self-righteousness, touchiness, sullenness, or bitterness. Willpower does not change people, time does not change people — only Jesus Christ changes people. The Spirit of Christ is the only one who can truly purify and sweeten a person. Only Christ can regenerate a person and transform them into a person of good temper — as they die to themselves and live only for Him.

Facet #8, Grace Giving — Love does not take into account a wrong suffered. “Keeping score” breeds bitterness and suspicion, and in this type of precarious environment people shrivel up. Yet if we are willing to see the bright side, think no evil and impute no ugly motive to the actions of others, this acceptance and belief of the best in them will be an encouragement and enlightening fellowship. Very simply put, forgive others and respect them.

Facet #9, Sincerity — Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. Sincerely seek truth, see things as they plainly are, and then allow that sincerity to be joyful. Henry goes on to teach that this includes self-restraint which refuses to make a big deal of others faults, not exposing their weaknesses but rather that love covers their wrongs.

When the light of the Holy Spirit passes through these facets of love, it is a magnificent transparent prism — a spectrum of love reflected that is more brilliant than the rarest of diamonds, and more cherished than any worldly possession. In this study I was humbled again to recognize that my love is not even as good as a cubic zirconia’s! But I thank God as He continual changes me and stretches me to grow me into something better than before. Henry Drummond also encourages me as he says, “Let those love now who never loved before. Let those who always loved, now love the more.”

Ride My Bicycle

2008-02-28T18:32:00.000-05:00

I love the four seasons ... the beautiful white snow of winter, colorful balmy days of autumn, big blue sky days of summer and explosion of color in spring. Here we are at the end of winter and every part of me is gearing up for bicycle season! I am SO ready to feel the sun on my face, the wind in my hair and roll down the paved paths around town with my Father. How blessed I am!

Yellow Gum Balls

2008-02-26T18:03:00.000-05:00

We have a gum ball machine. My little bear's great joy is to find out what your favorite color gum ball is. Once she has this very important information she makes her way to the kitchen to play the machine as if she was working the slots in Vegas. Her "pay day" and ultimate satisfaction is to be awarded your color! Then off running she goes around the house giving away most of her winnings. Chomping, smiling and every once in awhile screaming .... "Mommy I got you a yellow one!"

wait... have we seen this tree before?

2008-02-26T09:39:00.000-05:00

Christian (w)Rap … Don’t Believe Everything You Hear

2008-02-26T09:24:00.000-05:00

“Don't let yourselves get taken in by religious smooth talk. God gets furious with people who are full of religious sales talk but want nothing to do with Him. Don't even hang around people like that.” (Eph 5:5-7, Mess.)

I sometimes hear “oh, I hate rap” and usually the person is referring to R&B or Hip Hop rap music. I also despise rap, however, I don’t mean the bass pounding rhymes of poetic recording artists. No, what I am referring to is religious sales talk. I have found it in at least two “varieties”…

“Rap” …
I have encountered people who have heard or read some great “Christian Rap.” Words that hit their heart or sound super spiritual to them and then they begin sharing it with others. Appropriating the thoughts or teaching of others as if this is their own experience or understanding from God. Painting “color by number word pictures” of how to be a Christian… unfortunately, and often, the picture is not an accurate reflection of God’s word, but rather the word of some other “well-meaning” Christian, that may or may not have it right. In the end just a regurgitation of a filtered message that turns into a conversation of bumper sticker slogans. “For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of sinful human nature, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error. They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him.” (2Peter 2:18-19, NIV.)

Often this “rap” leaves the person who heard it with the feeling or sense of shame or failure. That somehow their experience or feelings are inferior compared to other “more spiritual” Christians, or maybe they are just not trying “hard enough.” Radically different from spiritual conviction, which brings about sorrowful repentance, instead this rap only discourages, confuses, and alienates people.

Lyrics from a Minneapolis Rap Quartet, Junkyard Prophet cuts right to it, describing it like this “Playin’ the game … Blasphemin’ His name … For the gain and fame … Your claim is vain … Your walk is lame.”

God’s words through Paul describe it like this “For there are a lot of rebels out there, full of loose, confusing, and deceiving talk. Those who were brought up religious and ought to know better are the worst. They've got to be shut up. They're disrupting entire families with their teaching, and all for the sake of a fast buck.” (Titus 1:10, Mess.) Paul strongly says in Romans 2 “I have a special word of caution for you who are sure that you have it all together yourselves and, because you know God's revealed Word inside and out, feel qualified to guide others through their blind alleys and dark nights and confused emotions to God. While you are guiding others, who is going to guide you? I'm quite serious. While preaching, "Don't steal!" are you going to rob people blind? Who would suspect you? The same with adultery. The same with idolatry. You can get by with almost anything if you front it with eloquent talk about God and His law.” (Rom 2:21-23, Mess.)

Each of us who attempts to teach or encourage with words or with deed, may we remember sincerely the strong admonishments in Proverbs 30 …”Every word of God is tested… Do not add to His words, or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar.” (Prov 30:5a-6, NASB) If we are truly interested in encouraging or teaching others, consider Paul’s way “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” (Rom12:15, NASB) When I enter into the experiences of others and stand with them, with Christ there is powerful encouragement, however “If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.” (1Cor13:1, NASB) “Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with Him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of Himself to us. Love like that.” (Eph 5:1-4, Mess.)

Then there is “Wrap” …
Wrapping one’s actions with poignant justifications using god-marketing slogans, often in an attempt to control others into desired behaviors or to cover up their own sin. In my experience this “pretty talk” all comes back to the same places … pride and coveting. Yet, in the delivery it sounds so “holy.”

Jesus revealed it this way, “They talk a good line, but they don't live it. They don't take it into their hearts and live it out in their behavior. It's all spit-and-polish veneer. Instead of giving you God's Law as food and drink by which you can banquet on God, they package it in bundles of rules, loading you down like pack animals. They seem to take pleasure in watching you stagger under these loads, and wouldn't think of lifting a finger to help.” (Mat 23:3-4, Mess.)

Obviously God’s tolerance of this matter is infinitively greater than mine. Whew, what a relief since I along with all of mankind struggle with a form of hypocrisy, and double-mindedness so the word clearly teaches in Romans 7:14-25 and my life experience, sad to say, definitely demonstrates. “Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Rom 7:24&25a, NASB)

So I encourage you “my dear friends, don't believe everything you hear. Carefully weigh and examine what people tell you. Not everyone who talks about God comes from God….” (1John 4:1, Mess.)

Jesus doesn’t need marketing…
Instead of killing time with religious sales talk, I encourage us to fill up our lives connecting one to one with Jesus. “ I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” (Eph 3:16-19,NIV)

May we both be so full of the intimate personal knowledge of Jesus that we are actually bursting at the seams with overwhelming love so that out of our mouths flows the refreshing poetic awe of our adventures with our loving Father! (Now that is the kind of rap, I definitely want to hear, how about you?)