11. Dwindling piles of ironing
12. My prayer group
13. CASA, case workers, and those working in the court for children
14. Knock out roses
15. Grandchildren and all their talents and interests
16. Family connections
17. Neighbors and their generosity
18. Church and opportunities for children and adults to make connections
19. Music and the joy it gives in participating and enjoying
20. Husbands who like to cook
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Gratitude
Naming and giving thanks for those things that give you joy, satisfaction, or serenity helps you to focus on blessings rather than be affected by negatives. Giving thanks for something that is not quite enough makes it more than enough. Several years ago I did a gratitude journal while reading Sarah Ban Breathnach. I highly recommend it and have decided I will do it again this summer. Since I am reading One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp, I plan to try to name one thousand gifts I am grateful for and give thanks to God for each of them.
1. It is Memorial Day, so I am thankful for all those who have, are, and will serve to protect us and our freedoms. May we live honorably and as servants to others to honor those sacrifices and God's blessings to this country.
2. Sunny days and blue skies after the many days of rain and storms.
3. The privilege of participating on other's lives and seeing their children grow up. Happy Graduation to Tyler.
4. The blessing of getting to know the loving, calm, wise, and serene nature of elderly friends and family. I'm thankful for the 90th birthday party I will be attending for a former member of our church shut in committee who now is one of our precious shut ins. Happy 90th Pat.
5. A husband who puts a fan out for me when i lay out to help keep me cool and bug free.
6. Texting as a wonderful way to share something fun quickly and easily with friends and family
7. Technology in general, as a way to share with those we might not otherwise keep as close touch with.
8. Time off work to take a deep breath, reflect, and smell the roses.
9. Beautiful flowers and birds in all their colors.
10. Most importantly and above all, God's love, grace, and forgiveness through the sacrifice of Jesus.
1. It is Memorial Day, so I am thankful for all those who have, are, and will serve to protect us and our freedoms. May we live honorably and as servants to others to honor those sacrifices and God's blessings to this country.
2. Sunny days and blue skies after the many days of rain and storms.
3. The privilege of participating on other's lives and seeing their children grow up. Happy Graduation to Tyler.
4. The blessing of getting to know the loving, calm, wise, and serene nature of elderly friends and family. I'm thankful for the 90th birthday party I will be attending for a former member of our church shut in committee who now is one of our precious shut ins. Happy 90th Pat.
5. A husband who puts a fan out for me when i lay out to help keep me cool and bug free.
6. Texting as a wonderful way to share something fun quickly and easily with friends and family
7. Technology in general, as a way to share with those we might not otherwise keep as close touch with.
8. Time off work to take a deep breath, reflect, and smell the roses.
9. Beautiful flowers and birds in all their colors.
10. Most importantly and above all, God's love, grace, and forgiveness through the sacrifice of Jesus.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Beth Moore - Living Beyond Yourself
My prayer group is doing their first Bible Study. We have read lots of books by great Christian authors and discussed them--as well as doing lots of chatting. It is new to dig into study where you look up tons of verses because they aren't written there for you. Its been good. With a Southern Baptist childhood, I'm kind of going back to my roots. The point of this study so far has been the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and all that does automatically for us as Christians, but more importantly what is available that is often not pursued. We do have to request and give permission for complete filling by the spirit and many of us never do that or realize there is more to gain by doing so. This involves the fruit of the spirit including love, joy, peace, patience, faithfulness, kindness, gentleness, goodness, and self-control. Aren't these qualities we would all like to have?
Our DVD for the end of unit 2 focused on being in tune to the spirit for guidance in decisions. As God may be trying to tell you either A) yes, do this, B) yes, I want you to do this, but be prepared that it will be difficult--and you should not question because of those difficulties that you should have done it, or C) no, I do not want you to this at all--maybe because there is hidden potential for evil, but also it may be because this is just not the ministry I have in mind for you now. As Beth says, if God is telling you these things, don't you want to be able to hear Him?
She uses the analogy of resonance. I was not aware that when playing middle C on the piano, for example, that all the strings for other C's and harmonizing notes do a slight vibration as well. We want to be in that kind of resonance with God so when He plays a note, we are in tuned to what He is telling us. I have always thought of it as the Holy Spirit planting thoughts in my mind.
Here are the three ways the Holy Spirit helps us hear what He is saying: 1) Perceiving is simply sensing what He is telling us, 2) Discerning is not just telling right from wrong so you can avoid wrong, but alo knowing which of all needed good things out there that God wants YOU to focus on, and 3) Having insight for things you may not have the familiarity, point of reference, and backround experience for personally. God gives you what you need to deal with new situations or to help others. Beth gives the example of flying to New York on a practically empty flight after 9/11 when she was asked to speak to a meeting of church leaders. She was praying to God on the way that she had no background experience (file) to pull from in something like this. He put her at ease by telling her He had the file, and she should just let him guide her.
I would highly recommend this study workbook even if you don't have access to the DVDs to watch.
Our DVD for the end of unit 2 focused on being in tune to the spirit for guidance in decisions. As God may be trying to tell you either A) yes, do this, B) yes, I want you to do this, but be prepared that it will be difficult--and you should not question because of those difficulties that you should have done it, or C) no, I do not want you to this at all--maybe because there is hidden potential for evil, but also it may be because this is just not the ministry I have in mind for you now. As Beth says, if God is telling you these things, don't you want to be able to hear Him?
She uses the analogy of resonance. I was not aware that when playing middle C on the piano, for example, that all the strings for other C's and harmonizing notes do a slight vibration as well. We want to be in that kind of resonance with God so when He plays a note, we are in tuned to what He is telling us. I have always thought of it as the Holy Spirit planting thoughts in my mind.
Here are the three ways the Holy Spirit helps us hear what He is saying: 1) Perceiving is simply sensing what He is telling us, 2) Discerning is not just telling right from wrong so you can avoid wrong, but alo knowing which of all needed good things out there that God wants YOU to focus on, and 3) Having insight for things you may not have the familiarity, point of reference, and backround experience for personally. God gives you what you need to deal with new situations or to help others. Beth gives the example of flying to New York on a practically empty flight after 9/11 when she was asked to speak to a meeting of church leaders. She was praying to God on the way that she had no background experience (file) to pull from in something like this. He put her at ease by telling her He had the file, and she should just let him guide her.
I would highly recommend this study workbook even if you don't have access to the DVDs to watch.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Its not weakness, its lack of knowledge
A tragedy has happened in a family. This family has had a multitude of problems. Did it start with a young lady who left her home to escape the physical abuse from her father at the age of 14? Did this poor male role model of a father define her own single criteria for a future husband--one that doesn't hit. When this woman's husband ended up being disrespectful and unfaithful as a husband and father, what kind of role model was he? Is this why his own daughter didn't have very high expectations for who might father her own children? Is this why some young girls desperately seek love from any male?
Men who are not kind, loving, and have a work ethic do not build the self-esteem and expectations in their daughters that they deserve to be treated with respect. The two boys in the third generation of this family were loved, but lacked some important knowledge often learned from role models. Four illegitimate children are the result and their own lack of providing good fathering skills because they were never given all the tools themselves.
Probably the biggest tragedy in all this is society's attitude about being weak if you don't deal with problems well. As a result, people feel shame and won't admit they have a problem they don't know how to deal with and don't ask for help. Instead, they "buck up", which means burying your feelings and not dealing with them. This can be very dangerous. One of these two third generation young men had a very sensitive nature and probably didn't want anyone to worry about him. He didn't deal with his feelings; instead he took himself out of the equation of life entirely. He has left 2 sons without a fatherly role model at all and a nephew who he was a role model to with a vision of finding him in a horrible state that will never be erased entirely.
Not dealing well with problems is not about weakness. Its about having knowledge and tools. No one would expect you to go bake a souffle without knowledge and tools. No one should expect anyone to deal with serious problems and crisis without knowledge and tools. Lets pray that those who need help will not be ashamed and embarrassed to ask for it--from God and people. "Bucking up" is only the answer with minor disappointments and skinned knees--not serious problems and life crisis.
Men who are not kind, loving, and have a work ethic do not build the self-esteem and expectations in their daughters that they deserve to be treated with respect. The two boys in the third generation of this family were loved, but lacked some important knowledge often learned from role models. Four illegitimate children are the result and their own lack of providing good fathering skills because they were never given all the tools themselves.
Probably the biggest tragedy in all this is society's attitude about being weak if you don't deal with problems well. As a result, people feel shame and won't admit they have a problem they don't know how to deal with and don't ask for help. Instead, they "buck up", which means burying your feelings and not dealing with them. This can be very dangerous. One of these two third generation young men had a very sensitive nature and probably didn't want anyone to worry about him. He didn't deal with his feelings; instead he took himself out of the equation of life entirely. He has left 2 sons without a fatherly role model at all and a nephew who he was a role model to with a vision of finding him in a horrible state that will never be erased entirely.
Not dealing well with problems is not about weakness. Its about having knowledge and tools. No one would expect you to go bake a souffle without knowledge and tools. No one should expect anyone to deal with serious problems and crisis without knowledge and tools. Lets pray that those who need help will not be ashamed and embarrassed to ask for it--from God and people. "Bucking up" is only the answer with minor disappointments and skinned knees--not serious problems and life crisis.
Monday, January 18, 2010
TV--Now and Then
Sometimes I wake up with things on my mind on want to write about them. This morning it was television. I don't remember watching much TV as a child. I was pretty much outside all the time, and the thing I remember doing is playing baseball down the alley with several neighborhood kids. Now this was a nice grass covered overgrown "used to be"alley--perfect as a neighborhood gathering place. I remember more the Saturday morning shows like Sky King (I even had his autograph), Lone Ranger, Lassie, and Mickey Mouse Club (which may not have been on Sat). I think when I was a little older I watched Donna Reed, Father Knows Best, and Andy Griffith. I especially remember I must have been early teens with Donna Reed because I so wanted my shirts to fit like they did on Shelley Fabares. Anyway, the point being, I have lived through a lot of television and occasionally realize that it has so gradually changed that I am not even always aware of it. Shows used to be about families (even a child being raised by his father and great-aunt) and their everyday life lessons. Children generally experienced a life delimma and choice that they learned a lesson from during the show. How wonderfully appropriate for families to watch together on TV. Now most comedies and many dramas revolve entirely around sex. It has happened gradually over the years. During the Dick Van Dyke years, we became aware of TV rules about the parents' bedroom scenes. Usually there were twin beds, but if not, everyone had to have a foot on the floor during those scenes. They did not want anyone thinking about sex--just the family dynamics and interractions.
Now many, many shows revolve around sex--with a sense of humor and in a serious mode and both in, but mostly out of marriage. We have seen this so much, we become numb to it, accept it, and often don't stop and think about the impression it is making on our children. Sex should not be thought of as a recreational activity. Most mature adults can handle some sex humor, but for children and teenagers, it is helping to form their view of the world. I remember what I told my children when they were old enough that I knew I had no control of what movies they would be going to. I told them if they stopped feeling embarassed by things they saw that were inappropriate, they were seeing too much of it. I think I've seen too much of it. I enjoy sometimes going to channels that show some of those older shows. I even laugh more now at things like Beverly Hillbillies than I ever did before. Perhaps I am longing for just plain humor unrelated to sex.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Ortberg
I have a friend who keeps me supplied with good Christian reading. She usually is more of a reader than I am, so the books sometimes get stacked up on me. I manage to eventually read them though because I respect her judgment of the value in the ones she likes. She has exhausted the book lists of Yancey, Lucado, and some others. She has discovered John Ortberg and is now reading everything she can get her hands on by him. Therefore, I will be too. Thanks Sue for keeping me reading these inspirational works.
The two books I have now started on simultaneously are "Everybody's Normal Till You Get to Know Them" (you have to love this title) and "The Life You've Always Wanted". Today's comments address the first.
Ortberg compares all of us to the "as is" merchandise at a sale. We all have imperfections that may not show up right away. His statement about us loving being a part of a Christian (or any) community we dream of but not so fond of the reality of the Christian community we know is often correct. It reminds me of the girl who mourns the loss of a boyfrined who lied and cheated. She is not mourning that boy at all; she is mourning what she wished her boyfriend had been like. He also makes a point that those who think the Bible is full of righteous people haven't read it. Neither the Bible or churches are full of "normal" or righteous people. That means we are not "normal" either and should be cutting others as much slack as we hope they cut us. Our backgrounds of experience and knowledge make us all so unique and complicated, and then that is further complicated by the different ways we react to these experiences. We need to embrace and love each other as much for our quirky qualities as for our "normal" qualities.
The Jewish word, shalom, that we think of as meaning peace actually means so much more:
"the webbing together of God, humans, and all creation in justice, fulfillment, and delight" (p. 19)
Note, this is not about normal or perfect people; it is about relationships where fair treatment, a soul full of love, and a heart full of joy is the standard between imperfect people and with their perfect God.
Imagine a world where that is the norm. Shalom!
The two books I have now started on simultaneously are "Everybody's Normal Till You Get to Know Them" (you have to love this title) and "The Life You've Always Wanted". Today's comments address the first.
Ortberg compares all of us to the "as is" merchandise at a sale. We all have imperfections that may not show up right away. His statement about us loving being a part of a Christian (or any) community we dream of but not so fond of the reality of the Christian community we know is often correct. It reminds me of the girl who mourns the loss of a boyfrined who lied and cheated. She is not mourning that boy at all; she is mourning what she wished her boyfriend had been like. He also makes a point that those who think the Bible is full of righteous people haven't read it. Neither the Bible or churches are full of "normal" or righteous people. That means we are not "normal" either and should be cutting others as much slack as we hope they cut us. Our backgrounds of experience and knowledge make us all so unique and complicated, and then that is further complicated by the different ways we react to these experiences. We need to embrace and love each other as much for our quirky qualities as for our "normal" qualities.
The Jewish word, shalom, that we think of as meaning peace actually means so much more:
"the webbing together of God, humans, and all creation in justice, fulfillment, and delight" (p. 19)
Note, this is not about normal or perfect people; it is about relationships where fair treatment, a soul full of love, and a heart full of joy is the standard between imperfect people and with their perfect God.
Imagine a world where that is the norm. Shalom!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Not too late
For those of you, like me, who finally lost control, got caught up in preparations for Christmas, and didn't finish the Advent reading and lost focus--You have until Wed (All King's Day--end of the 12 days of, etc...) to finish the advent readings, reflect on where you went wrong, and still appreciate the true meaning. Now that its more peaceful, you can remind yourself to fill yourself with God rather than food and activities. You can choose to believe and receive His gift and guidance for what is best--remembering that He works all things together for good AND His idea of you reaching your best achievments may not be the same as yours. His idea is better. His plan for your new year can be beyond any of your possible expectations, but it may not be anything like you expect. May you feel God's blessings, seek to serve Him by serving others, and follow His guidance.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Seasons
I like seasons--even winter for a variety of reasons. Variety is one of the reasons. I enjoy the changes. Even though perfect mid 70's weather everyday has its appeal, I think I would not only get bored with it, but take it for granted. This leads to the second reason I appreciate change: appreciation. Weather that is not as fun makes you more aware of and thankful for those gorgeous days, beautiful blue skies in so many different shades, fluffy clouds, and refreshing breezes. But there is another more philosophical reason that I love seasons.....
I see seasons as an analogy for what our life should be.....not on a 3 month rotation, but at least within the week and even daily.
I think most of us are stuck in summer, going full speed ahead, doing everything we can possible do. We cannot realistically keep this pace, and the quality can suffer without the other phases.
We need to move to fall, as a cool down and prelude to winter. Just likes it not good to stop hard exercise without cool down, we need to phase out of full speed to the slower pace on a regular basis.
Ah winter, except for ice storms with loss of electricity for days and dangerous roads, it has its own charm. This season represents more than any what we probably lack in our lives--rest and reflection. Without rest and reflection, we do not learn from or fully appreciate experiences. I look at bare trees and know they are resting, storing nourishment, and preparing for the next, and possibly most glorious of seasons. Perhaps this should be an analogy for quiet prayer and devotional time that we have trouble "squeezing in" sometimes. This prayer and ponder/rest and reflection should be a priority.
If we are using the rest and reflection, we can get so much more for the next season, which is spring. Using gained wisdom can help us see and enjoy new opportunities and possibilities that we might not see or feel ready for.
Next time you are feeling down due to dreary skies and cold weather, ask God to help you use seasons as a way to live life to its fullest and to His plan.
I see seasons as an analogy for what our life should be.....not on a 3 month rotation, but at least within the week and even daily.
I think most of us are stuck in summer, going full speed ahead, doing everything we can possible do. We cannot realistically keep this pace, and the quality can suffer without the other phases.
We need to move to fall, as a cool down and prelude to winter. Just likes it not good to stop hard exercise without cool down, we need to phase out of full speed to the slower pace on a regular basis.
Ah winter, except for ice storms with loss of electricity for days and dangerous roads, it has its own charm. This season represents more than any what we probably lack in our lives--rest and reflection. Without rest and reflection, we do not learn from or fully appreciate experiences. I look at bare trees and know they are resting, storing nourishment, and preparing for the next, and possibly most glorious of seasons. Perhaps this should be an analogy for quiet prayer and devotional time that we have trouble "squeezing in" sometimes. This prayer and ponder/rest and reflection should be a priority.
If we are using the rest and reflection, we can get so much more for the next season, which is spring. Using gained wisdom can help us see and enjoy new opportunities and possibilities that we might not see or feel ready for.
Next time you are feeling down due to dreary skies and cold weather, ask God to help you use seasons as a way to live life to its fullest and to His plan.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Heart Breaking News
Refer to my July 9th post as a background to this sad news about twins who had been in foster care with a family who wanted to adopt them for almost 2 1/2 years--since infancy. They had started scattered visitations over the last several months with parents who have made a multitude of seriously poor choices in their recent past. Details would help you see how bewildering it is that they have been now returned to their mother without visitation to the only extended family and friends they have known, trusted, and loved for their whole lives.
I pray that we continue prayers for the welfare of these girls by praying that if they are going to be with biological parents--that these parents will be loving and responsible and have the necessary support to do so. I also pray for the foster family's grief and worry for these girls. Please help with these prayers and that IF it becomes necessary for them to go back into the "system" that they will return to the family they are familiar with.
I pray that we continue prayers for the welfare of these girls by praying that if they are going to be with biological parents--that these parents will be loving and responsible and have the necessary support to do so. I also pray for the foster family's grief and worry for these girls. Please help with these prayers and that IF it becomes necessary for them to go back into the "system" that they will return to the family they are familiar with.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
I'm Thankful for....
First and foremost... that God loved us so much that he wanted to better understand us by having the human experience through His Son, who showed us by example how to treat others before He made eternity available to us with His sacrifice.
I am thankful for … a husband who I cannot say enough good things about. He has always been a better spouse to me than I am to him. He has been the “wind beneath my wings” for over 35 years. May sound too mushy, but the truth very simply.
I am thankful for … 2 wonderful, kind, caring, and funny daughters who are so competent with and committed to what they do
I am thankful for … 3 precious grandchildren and one yet to come as well as a son-in-law that is a devoted husband and father
I am thankful for … parents who loved me, were proud of me, and believed I could do whatever I set my mind to, as well as their characteristics I have tried to learn: compassion and soft-heartedness from my mother and determination and self-confidence from my dad.
I am thankful for … Christian examples, love, and support from grandmothers, aunts, and uncles, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews, as well as the opportunity to see my daughters (two from birth and one bonus) and friends’ children to develop faith that assures me they will always be in God’s care.
I am thankful for … a faith that has grown over the years and the difficult times which forced that growth that probably would not have happened otherwise
I am thankful for … so many wonderful friends who are like the sisters I never had.
I am thankful for … a church family that is motivated by loving and caring for one another in its missions
I am thankful for … many neighbors who have become friends
I am thankful for … co-workers who I learn from every day and have such great respect for
I am thankful for … a beautiful world and all the living things we enjoy, as well as the variety of seasons and the life lessons there—live life to the fullest(summer), wind down (fall), rest and reflect (winter), and then open yourself to new possibilities again (spring)
I am thankful for … material blessings which I do not wish to prioritize, but certainly must acknowledge
I am thankful for … my health which in spite of my not taking adequate care of myself and some minor problems, is not too bad and I am still able to help others when needed
I am thankful for … beautiful flowers of all colors, birds at the feeder , herons and our ducks (even ranting Donald) in the lake, and our hawks in the air, as well as turkeys, deer, chickens, and even cows that wander into our yard on occasion
I am thankful for … words and their power in sharing thoughts, feelings, and ideas
I am thankful for … our country and the freedoms, responsibilities, and blessings that come with it
I am thankful for … my own 57 years of life, love, and learning
I am thankful for … organizations who represent and serve those with needs, such as the respectful appreciative meeting of needs for our elderly, education of young children and their parents, support that improves the education of children with special needs, and work for those youngsters in neglectful or abusive situations
I am thankful for pets--ours in particular who have brought me pleasure, but are truly therapuetic for Stan. Over the years, we have had Strider and briefly brother Bilbo, Missy, dear Abbie, and currently sweet Maggie. They have all had their own unique, but lovable personalities. Even one of several barn kitties who are generally pretty aloof sought love and attention and wormed his way into our hearts (Sancho). Pets are one of God's gifts to us.
And again for God, who is always there for me
I am thankful for … a husband who I cannot say enough good things about. He has always been a better spouse to me than I am to him. He has been the “wind beneath my wings” for over 35 years. May sound too mushy, but the truth very simply.
I am thankful for … 2 wonderful, kind, caring, and funny daughters who are so competent with and committed to what they do
I am thankful for … 3 precious grandchildren and one yet to come as well as a son-in-law that is a devoted husband and father
I am thankful for … parents who loved me, were proud of me, and believed I could do whatever I set my mind to, as well as their characteristics I have tried to learn: compassion and soft-heartedness from my mother and determination and self-confidence from my dad.
I am thankful for … Christian examples, love, and support from grandmothers, aunts, and uncles, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews, as well as the opportunity to see my daughters (two from birth and one bonus) and friends’ children to develop faith that assures me they will always be in God’s care.
I am thankful for … a faith that has grown over the years and the difficult times which forced that growth that probably would not have happened otherwise
I am thankful for … so many wonderful friends who are like the sisters I never had.
I am thankful for … a church family that is motivated by loving and caring for one another in its missions
I am thankful for … many neighbors who have become friends
I am thankful for … co-workers who I learn from every day and have such great respect for
I am thankful for … a beautiful world and all the living things we enjoy, as well as the variety of seasons and the life lessons there—live life to the fullest(summer), wind down (fall), rest and reflect (winter), and then open yourself to new possibilities again (spring)
I am thankful for … material blessings which I do not wish to prioritize, but certainly must acknowledge
I am thankful for … my health which in spite of my not taking adequate care of myself and some minor problems, is not too bad and I am still able to help others when needed
I am thankful for … beautiful flowers of all colors, birds at the feeder , herons and our ducks (even ranting Donald) in the lake, and our hawks in the air, as well as turkeys, deer, chickens, and even cows that wander into our yard on occasion
I am thankful for … words and their power in sharing thoughts, feelings, and ideas
I am thankful for … our country and the freedoms, responsibilities, and blessings that come with it
I am thankful for … my own 57 years of life, love, and learning
I am thankful for … organizations who represent and serve those with needs, such as the respectful appreciative meeting of needs for our elderly, education of young children and their parents, support that improves the education of children with special needs, and work for those youngsters in neglectful or abusive situations
I am thankful for pets--ours in particular who have brought me pleasure, but are truly therapuetic for Stan. Over the years, we have had Strider and briefly brother Bilbo, Missy, dear Abbie, and currently sweet Maggie. They have all had their own unique, but lovable personalities. Even one of several barn kitties who are generally pretty aloof sought love and attention and wormed his way into our hearts (Sancho). Pets are one of God's gifts to us.
And again for God, who is always there for me
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Blue Like Jazz -- my review --Part Two
I love books like this that spark my own thought process and take me back to the basics of my faith. I just finished Chapter 9 where the author is trying to merge who he really is with the cliched Christian he feels he had become at the time.
His ah ha moment--making something he knew more clear and intense in purpose--is realizing that God's purpose for him is telling the news to those who don't know because that is the only thing that saves mankind. Government cannot save mankind and neither can people save themselves. He also sees with more clarity that everything from unkindness to depravity in all forms is the seed of the evil one. He refers to "Satan lashing out at the earth like a madman". The results of this are reflected in warring tribes; the raping, abusing, and even murdering of wives, daughters, and babies instead of defending them; and putting greed for power or money above being fair and meeting needs of human beings.
My own thoughts branch off from that. We often speak of people who do horrible things as evil. I often have to remind myself that these people are children of God (just like me), who He loves and wants to bring into the fold (as much as he does me). We need to keep perpetrators as well as victims in our prayers. We need to not be so elitist in thinking our sins or sinful thoughts are less an afront to God. We need to remember all of us were born into different circumstances, and many of us were blessed with a more accessible pathway to God. Our job is to be a witness of the love of God and leave the judgment between God and each individual.
His ah ha moment--making something he knew more clear and intense in purpose--is realizing that God's purpose for him is telling the news to those who don't know because that is the only thing that saves mankind. Government cannot save mankind and neither can people save themselves. He also sees with more clarity that everything from unkindness to depravity in all forms is the seed of the evil one. He refers to "Satan lashing out at the earth like a madman". The results of this are reflected in warring tribes; the raping, abusing, and even murdering of wives, daughters, and babies instead of defending them; and putting greed for power or money above being fair and meeting needs of human beings.
My own thoughts branch off from that. We often speak of people who do horrible things as evil. I often have to remind myself that these people are children of God (just like me), who He loves and wants to bring into the fold (as much as he does me). We need to keep perpetrators as well as victims in our prayers. We need to not be so elitist in thinking our sins or sinful thoughts are less an afront to God. We need to remember all of us were born into different circumstances, and many of us were blessed with a more accessible pathway to God. Our job is to be a witness of the love of God and leave the judgment between God and each individual.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller
I have just started reading this book and just finished chapter 3. I highly recommend it already --partly because I am reading it due to many other recommendations. It is a very easy read and I can relate to the ah ha moments this writer has about faith--like the Convergence of Thoughts title of this very blog.
In chapter 3, he is seeing the correlation between the features of setting, conflict, climax, and resolution and our faith journey. We respond to literature with these elements because we experience them personally and were built to do so. He also tells a story he heard of Navy Seals going into rescue hostages who would not leave with them because they did not trust them. One of the Seals removed some of his gear and got down on the floor to comfort and hold one of the terrified hostages until they realized they were friends and Americans.
As God became man, he showed his love and concern by wanting to have and better understand the human experience and show us by example how to love one another. I think we sometimes forget the importance of these two reasons for His visit. It was not JUST to die on the cross for our sins so we could have eternal life. The sacrifice in order to better understand us and His actions toward other human beings taught us important lessons about LOVE while he was here.
In chapter 3, he is seeing the correlation between the features of setting, conflict, climax, and resolution and our faith journey. We respond to literature with these elements because we experience them personally and were built to do so. He also tells a story he heard of Navy Seals going into rescue hostages who would not leave with them because they did not trust them. One of the Seals removed some of his gear and got down on the floor to comfort and hold one of the terrified hostages until they realized they were friends and Americans.
As God became man, he showed his love and concern by wanting to have and better understand the human experience and show us by example how to love one another. I think we sometimes forget the importance of these two reasons for His visit. It was not JUST to die on the cross for our sins so we could have eternal life. The sacrifice in order to better understand us and His actions toward other human beings taught us important lessons about LOVE while he was here.
Friday, August 7, 2009
How to Defeat your Giants
My prayer group is finishing Max Lucado's Facing Your Giants. Every chapter has had a good message--relating God's faithfulness to the ups and downs of David's faith journey. The Giants in the title relates literally to Goliath, but figuratively to anyting in our life that wears us down and ultimately pulls us away from trusting and depending on God. Lucado shows us the analogy between how David successfully defeated Goliath and how we can do the same with our giants.
Lucado is such a word smith too that you come away with such memorable quotes. Here is how he builds this analogy with a hand to help you remember the five steps to defeating your giants.
1. PAST Start with your thumb. Remember all the ways God has given you strength, guidance, and the help you needed. David only took 5 stones because he trusted God and didn't need a truckload.
"Write today's worries in sand. Chisel yesterday's victories in stone."
2. PRAYER See the deep valley you go through to get from your thumb to your index finger. In my own experience, I have found that sometimes we go through valleys that force us to learn to pray.
"Let it remind you of David's descent. Before going high, David went low; before ascending to fight, David descended to prepare."
3. PRIORITY The tallest finger reminds you that God is the priority.
"Focus on giants--you stumble. Focus on God--your giants tumble."
You focus on bringing God the glory when you defeat your giant.
"See your struggles as God's canvas. On it He will paint His multicolored supremacy."
4. PASSION The ring finger reminds you of passion. Thinking and praying about the problems is just the start. You have to attack.
"David ran, not away from, but toward his giant."
If you have ever read Dave Ramsey's book about how to attack financial problems, you know this is another example of solving a problem--not by just prayer, but by focused and passionate assertion.
5. PERSISTENCE Perhaps another reason for David taking 5 stones was that Goliath had 4 other family members also great in size. He knew if they came to his defense, he would need a stone for each of them--no extras. He would not run or give up, he would stay with it until it was finished. This little finger will remind you that size has nothing to do with it.
What is your giant?
Lucado is such a word smith too that you come away with such memorable quotes. Here is how he builds this analogy with a hand to help you remember the five steps to defeating your giants.
1. PAST Start with your thumb. Remember all the ways God has given you strength, guidance, and the help you needed. David only took 5 stones because he trusted God and didn't need a truckload.
"Write today's worries in sand. Chisel yesterday's victories in stone."
2. PRAYER See the deep valley you go through to get from your thumb to your index finger. In my own experience, I have found that sometimes we go through valleys that force us to learn to pray.
"Let it remind you of David's descent. Before going high, David went low; before ascending to fight, David descended to prepare."
3. PRIORITY The tallest finger reminds you that God is the priority.
"Focus on giants--you stumble. Focus on God--your giants tumble."
You focus on bringing God the glory when you defeat your giant.
"See your struggles as God's canvas. On it He will paint His multicolored supremacy."
4. PASSION The ring finger reminds you of passion. Thinking and praying about the problems is just the start. You have to attack.
"David ran, not away from, but toward his giant."
If you have ever read Dave Ramsey's book about how to attack financial problems, you know this is another example of solving a problem--not by just prayer, but by focused and passionate assertion.
5. PERSISTENCE Perhaps another reason for David taking 5 stones was that Goliath had 4 other family members also great in size. He knew if they came to his defense, he would need a stone for each of them--no extras. He would not run or give up, he would stay with it until it was finished. This little finger will remind you that size has nothing to do with it.
What is your giant?
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Respectful Debate
In this time of differing opinions, lets remember:
Jesus honored the dignity of people whether he agreed with them or not. Power smothers love. Politics draws lines. Jesus's love crosses lines. Love and humility must be part of activism.
This is either a paraphrase or quote and I'm not sure who it came from, but I'm guessing Philip Yancey.
Jesus honored the dignity of people whether he agreed with them or not. Power smothers love. Politics draws lines. Jesus's love crosses lines. Love and humility must be part of activism.
This is either a paraphrase or quote and I'm not sure who it came from, but I'm guessing Philip Yancey.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Quotes of the Day
1. Let me preface this quote with my own opinion that God often allows painful things to happen, but seldom causes it. No matter how we find ourselves in a painful position, God can use it to our improvement and benefit in His will.
"Something painful happened to me. This is how I met it. I was quiet for a while with the Lord, and then I wrote these words for myself:
First, He brought me here. It is by His will I am in this strait place: In that fact will I rest.
Next, He will keep me here in his love, and give me grace as His child.
Then, He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He needs to bestow.
Last, in His good time, He can bring me out again--how and when only He knows. Let me say I am here first, by God's appointment; second, in His time; third, under His training; and fourth, for His time."
Dr. V. Raymond Edman, late president of Wheaton College
2. And along the same lines:
"The flame shall not hurt you
I only design
Your dross to consume
And your gold to refine."
From the hymn: How Firm a Foundation
"Something painful happened to me. This is how I met it. I was quiet for a while with the Lord, and then I wrote these words for myself:
First, He brought me here. It is by His will I am in this strait place: In that fact will I rest.
Next, He will keep me here in his love, and give me grace as His child.
Then, He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He needs to bestow.
Last, in His good time, He can bring me out again--how and when only He knows. Let me say I am here first, by God's appointment; second, in His time; third, under His training; and fourth, for His time."
Dr. V. Raymond Edman, late president of Wheaton College
2. And along the same lines:
"The flame shall not hurt you
I only design
Your dross to consume
And your gold to refine."
From the hymn: How Firm a Foundation
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
QUOTES OF THE DAY
1. "Children spell love with four letters: T-I-M-E."
From Facing Your Giants by Max Lucado
2. "Power, no matter how well intentioned, tends to cause suffering. Love, being vulnerable, absorbs it. In a point of convergence on a hill called Calvary, God renounced one (power) for the other (love)."
From The Jesus I Never Knew (one of my all-time most clarifying books about who Jesus was) by Philip Yancey
From Facing Your Giants by Max Lucado
2. "Power, no matter how well intentioned, tends to cause suffering. Love, being vulnerable, absorbs it. In a point of convergence on a hill called Calvary, God renounced one (power) for the other (love)."
From The Jesus I Never Knew (one of my all-time most clarifying books about who Jesus was) by Philip Yancey
Thursday, July 16, 2009
The Less Serious Me
If your looking for something a little more light hearted, see my blog listed at the right (Sidetracked by my Life). I refer to these as my fun and serious blogs. My daughter calls them my right and left brained blogs.
Done without a single injury
These pictures will make you wonder.
Lucky for them we were shooting with cameras
Done without a single injury
Someone needed to teach them to crow and cluck
Mary, Mary, quite contrary, How do your brussel sprouts grow?
A loner or ostracized?
Tired and guilty
Why all the squawking, Hawk?
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Pray for and Act on the Behalf of Young Children
I am becoming more and more aware of cases where young children in foster care are not being appropriately considered in placement. Too many times, with little to no consideration to what is best for the children, they are returned to biological parents who have demonstrated poor choices in every aspect of their lives with little to no evidence of any improvement in those judgment skills. In our state, many cases have come to light recently where biological parents proved in fatality causing behaviors to not have instincts to protect and care for their own children.
Not only are many judges prone to favor reunification of the family, but our own state laws lean in that direction. Here are some cases I have been personally aware of in the last several years.
In cases where divorces occurred due to dangerous and/or inappropriate behaviors, one little girl at the age of 3 described "games" her daddy made her play with him. The courts felt she didn't know what she was talking about (how could she have made up this detailed stuff???) and ruled he should continue to have unsupervised and overnight visits after the divorce. In another case, the father had been hospitalized for mental illness with a history of alcohol abuse. Psychologists testified that he should not have unsupervised visits, but his little girl is grown now and can remember being left in a truck, locked in the parking lot of bars late at night. Not only that, but he was known to always keep a loaded gun in that truck.
More recently, there have been a couple of acquaintance situations involving unmarried parents with severe drug related problems that often landed them with rotating sentences in and out of jail. In one case the out of state aunt and uncle had custody of the 1 and 4 year old while both parents were in jail. After they were out, the kids went back immediately and inspite of social workers reporting drug paraphenalia out in view in the home, the foster aunt and uncle could not get them back. (Crossing state lines complicates things further) The odd ending to that story is that the kids' father was killed in a car accident while under the influence, and the mother moved back to where her sister and family (the foster aunt and uncle) live and cleaned up her act after moving in with them for a while and getting a job. She sites being away from the influence of the people she was "friends" with as being the key for breaking that cycle.
In a current case, the unmarried parents are no longer together and the mother is having her 8th baby out of wedlock while having a drug problem. Two year old twins have been with a foster family since birth and have bonded with not only the parents but extended family and friends. The father, who has a drug history, no job, and living with friends in a tiny trailer has recently emerged and wants the kids now. This judge is said to have a hisory of always favoring biological parents. Letters have been written requesting consideration be given to the needs of the children (rather than biological or foster parents) and what the possible ramifications of this change at this time in their life would have on them long term. Concerns mentioned to the judge also include the need (if there is unification) for the state to educate, support, and supervise these parents as they deal with what is sure to be a difficult transition for the kids as well as long term costs into the next generation and beyond if the kids are not properly guided and do not become productive members of society. (It doens't hurt to point out possible future costs to the state) This judge apparently is reviewing the case again as a result and has instructed supervision to focus specifically on the level of bonding between this newly appeared father and the foster parents. I respect him for this reconsideration.
Please keep this current case and the thousands of other unnamed children going through this situation in your thoughts and prayers. Seriously consider writing letters to state legislators and judges. Check for ways you can help with local agencies that provide support as court appointed special advocates (CASA) or other ways to support and fight for these children. We need to show Christ's heart by being His eys, ears, hands, and feet.
Not only are many judges prone to favor reunification of the family, but our own state laws lean in that direction. Here are some cases I have been personally aware of in the last several years.
In cases where divorces occurred due to dangerous and/or inappropriate behaviors, one little girl at the age of 3 described "games" her daddy made her play with him. The courts felt she didn't know what she was talking about (how could she have made up this detailed stuff???) and ruled he should continue to have unsupervised and overnight visits after the divorce. In another case, the father had been hospitalized for mental illness with a history of alcohol abuse. Psychologists testified that he should not have unsupervised visits, but his little girl is grown now and can remember being left in a truck, locked in the parking lot of bars late at night. Not only that, but he was known to always keep a loaded gun in that truck.
More recently, there have been a couple of acquaintance situations involving unmarried parents with severe drug related problems that often landed them with rotating sentences in and out of jail. In one case the out of state aunt and uncle had custody of the 1 and 4 year old while both parents were in jail. After they were out, the kids went back immediately and inspite of social workers reporting drug paraphenalia out in view in the home, the foster aunt and uncle could not get them back. (Crossing state lines complicates things further) The odd ending to that story is that the kids' father was killed in a car accident while under the influence, and the mother moved back to where her sister and family (the foster aunt and uncle) live and cleaned up her act after moving in with them for a while and getting a job. She sites being away from the influence of the people she was "friends" with as being the key for breaking that cycle.
In a current case, the unmarried parents are no longer together and the mother is having her 8th baby out of wedlock while having a drug problem. Two year old twins have been with a foster family since birth and have bonded with not only the parents but extended family and friends. The father, who has a drug history, no job, and living with friends in a tiny trailer has recently emerged and wants the kids now. This judge is said to have a hisory of always favoring biological parents. Letters have been written requesting consideration be given to the needs of the children (rather than biological or foster parents) and what the possible ramifications of this change at this time in their life would have on them long term. Concerns mentioned to the judge also include the need (if there is unification) for the state to educate, support, and supervise these parents as they deal with what is sure to be a difficult transition for the kids as well as long term costs into the next generation and beyond if the kids are not properly guided and do not become productive members of society. (It doens't hurt to point out possible future costs to the state) This judge apparently is reviewing the case again as a result and has instructed supervision to focus specifically on the level of bonding between this newly appeared father and the foster parents. I respect him for this reconsideration.
Please keep this current case and the thousands of other unnamed children going through this situation in your thoughts and prayers. Seriously consider writing letters to state legislators and judges. Check for ways you can help with local agencies that provide support as court appointed special advocates (CASA) or other ways to support and fight for these children. We need to show Christ's heart by being His eys, ears, hands, and feet.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Life Changes
Changes in life and new stages of life can be hard. Although it is my nature and self-expectation to always be joyful and positive, I am learning that it is okay to allow myself to feel sad briefly. In my ideal little world, my kids and all my friends’ kids were going to grow up, have their own little families here, and the get-togethers would continue and grow even larger and more fun. This is one of those cases where expectations did not happen and it is okay to grieve for that loss and then move on. Being an only child means all my family is older and we are gradually missing family members as years go on and this is also difficult.
I share all this to prepare and suggest mothers develop some outside interests that they can pursue as their children grow up. A real key for me also is to spend time with the Lord daily, developing an attitude of gratitude, seeking my joy from that source, and listening for opportunities of service so I can focus outside of myself. While I loved pursuing my interest and passion for education by working toward a doctorate, I don’t see that as a cost effective distraction at this point. I have always liked cooking for big parties and groups, which gave me an outlet for living with a strictly meat and potatoes man. My outlet will be trying recipes with a little for me to eat and my husband to try (maybe he will like something) and taking food to 3-4 people/families who could use meals for a variety of reasons. I may also pursue doing some sewing and other crafty things I enjoyed.
I guess my approach to peace about the empty nest and the occasional underlying sadness is threefold: 1) develop deep roots of joy and a thankful heart with God’s help while taking time to listen to needs of others that He plants in my heart. 2) focus outside of myself on needs of others and things I can do for them. 3) start finding things of interest and trying them and doing things I know I enjoy, but haven’t done for a while.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Leadership
Most of us have had experiences being led and leading. Even if we haven’t studied official titles for leadership styles, we could probably not only describe the various styles—but give accurate opinions on how effective each type is. Parenting styles can also be related to leadership styles. Without going into all the letter names, let’s just say the leadership types fall along a continuum. One end is the leader who is primarily concerned about himself and maintaining his authority. The other end is one who plays the servant-leader role—putting the primary concern on what is best for those he serves and supporting and providing for the needs they have to carry out their responsibilities.
The servant-leader role can be compared to the “shepherd” word used so often to describe Jesus. In order to fully understand the significance of Jesus being described as a shepherd, we need to understand the difference between western hemisphere shepherding that we are familiar with (if we are familiar with shepherding at all) and the eastern hemisphere shepherding. The eastern hemisphere definition would be what scriptures refer to. In our half of the world, sheep herding styles are primarily prodding, yelling, and use of dogs to keep on track. In Jesus’ time and in His part of the world, sheep herders lived with their sheep for periods of time, developed a truly caring relationship for them, provided for their needs, and protected them from danger. At night, the sheep would go to a sheepfold (an area fairly protected from danger except at the entrance). The shepherd would sleep at the entrance to protect his sheep from predators. Once I understood what the eastern style was, the scriptural comparisons to Jesus became a beautiful explanation of His love. I feel it gives a depth of understanding to the effectiveness of the servant-leadership role that is helpful to consider.
The servant-leader role can be compared to the “shepherd” word used so often to describe Jesus. In order to fully understand the significance of Jesus being described as a shepherd, we need to understand the difference between western hemisphere shepherding that we are familiar with (if we are familiar with shepherding at all) and the eastern hemisphere shepherding. The eastern hemisphere definition would be what scriptures refer to. In our half of the world, sheep herding styles are primarily prodding, yelling, and use of dogs to keep on track. In Jesus’ time and in His part of the world, sheep herders lived with their sheep for periods of time, developed a truly caring relationship for them, provided for their needs, and protected them from danger. At night, the sheep would go to a sheepfold (an area fairly protected from danger except at the entrance). The shepherd would sleep at the entrance to protect his sheep from predators. Once I understood what the eastern style was, the scriptural comparisons to Jesus became a beautiful explanation of His love. I feel it gives a depth of understanding to the effectiveness of the servant-leadership role that is helpful to consider.
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