2011 Recap

Psalm 40;1-5  ''I waited patiently for the LORD;
And He inclined to me and heard my cry.
He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay,
And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.
He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God;
Many will see and fear
And will trust in the LORD.
How blessed is the man who has made the LORD his trust,
And has not turned to the proud, nor to those who lapse into falsehood.
Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders which You have done,
And Your thoughts toward us;
There is none to compare with You.
If I would declare and speak of them,
They would be too numerous to count.''

Psalm 40;10-11  ''I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart;
I have spoken of Your faithfulness and Your salvation;
I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth from the great congregation.
You, O LORD, will not withhold Your compassion from me;
Your lovingkindness and Your truth will continually preserve me.''



     In Psalm 40, David is praising God for his salvation but I also want to apply it to this past year that I was blessed with.  As most of you know, 2011 has been a year of recovery for me.  At the beginning of the year, I wasn't even strong enough to go to church for an hour. I sent my voice recorder to most of the services so I wouldn't miss out entirely.  Then before long, my hair started falling out.  I learned to become a little less vain through that unwanted trial.  Things began to improve slowly but surely.  I began to venture out in short intervals and enjoy life again beyond these four walls of the basement.  I did have many wonderful friends who visited me during my home-bound months that helped sustain my sanity.  I think it was in June, or maybe July, that we took the motorhome to church camp for two nights and then to Branson for a few days.  I'm not saying my endurance was great but it was a blessing to go at all.  I did do better than expected.  In September, I turned 40 and had a great birthday party with about 40 friends.  What a great show of love and three friends traveled a great distance to be there.  Finally, this Christmas season has been filled with great joy.  Attending all the fun events has meant so much to me.
     This is just a short recap of how God has been gracious to me this year.  As David said His thoughts for me have been too numerous to count this year.  I just want to give God all the credit for not withholding His compassion for me this year.  What a year it has been and I trust that whatever 2012 brings, He is in control and it's for my benefit.  May you put your trust in His hands in 2012 as well.

What's Your Role?

For the church to function fully,
We must all fulfill our role;
While the Spirit’s gifts are many,
They combine to serve the whole. —Sper


     My church, FBF, has had a work week this last week of December.  It is not mandatory to participate but voluntary.  The new sanctuary is still a work in progress but the Sunday school rooms are already in use.  So much gets done during the four days because everyone has different skills and abilities to offer. The variety of the member's skills is a benefit because we don't need 20 plumbers, no electricians and 1 cook.  We use our skills to complement each other and build on them.  Everyone has something to contribute, even me, whether big or small.  I think one of my spiritual gifts is encouragement.  I doubt anyone wants me leaning over their shoulder saying 'you can do it' or 'good job' while they finish their project today.  Instead, I sent donuts to start their last workday off with a sweet bit of encouragement.  I'm sure its true for both men and women but they say 'to get to a man's heart, you go thru the stomach.'  haha.
     Ask yourself the next time an opportunity arises, 'how can I help?'  You really don't have to wait tho, there are opportunities every day to use your spiritual and physical gifts. We just have to open our minds and hearts to recognize them and make ourselves available.

Romans 12;4-8  ''For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith;  if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach;  if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. ''

Shhhh!

     Have you ever felt like you have been set up for trouble or failure?  Well I'm going to share with you the story of my arch-nemesis of second grade.  Of all my years of education, this one teacher still leaves a bad memory in my mind.  I can honestly say I probably tested her more than I should have, lol.
     We moved to Stuttgart right before I started 2nd grade.  I had been in private school until now and this would be my first taste of public school. We had small class sizes back then so the desks were arranged in a semi-circle design.  Well my new best friend, Tina Lee, was on the other side of the circle. I don't remember her ever getting  in trouble for talking. I, on the other hand, could be found touching my toes during recess, out in the hall, or writing ''I will not talk in class'' a hundred times as punishment. Being an only child, I got my 'writing' done without my parents knowing there was any trouble at school. I don't think my teacher liked me and the feeling was mutual. This same year at Halloween, somebody had the bright idea for the teachers to dress up at recess as witches and such and come out on the playground. It scared me so much that I ran home and they had to call my dad to bring me back to school.  My memory of this year and the teacher may be a little biased but she did get fired the next year for her harsh punishment. I bet it was her paddle with holes in it. I had heard about one of the third grade teachers that you needed to pray that you didn't get chosen to be in her room, Ms. Bowen.  Well guess where I ended up?  It turned out that she was great and is one of my favorite teachers to this day. I still have the bald eagle made out of colored rice that I made in her class.
     To be a good teacher takes a special gift and attitude.  I hope you had a special teacher in your life that you have fond memories of.  You can thank a teacher because you could read this blog.

Tone

''Listen not merely to what is said but to the tone of voice in which it is said.''


    This may be one of those blogs that requires you to wear steel-toed boots.
    The tone of our voice is quite revealing as to what our temperment is at the moment.  You can say the exact same thing verbatim but it can have quite a different meaning with different tones.  ''Will you take out the trash?'' or ''WILL YOU TAKE OUT THE TRASH?''  If you haven't said this both ways, then you get a gold star.  Jerry Seinfeld says he didn't even know he had different tones till he got married.
     Why do we do it?  Usually because we're exasperated.  Lack of patience would probably account for most of it.  We might think our point will get across without the use of profanity, if we just use a more definitive tone.  Some people use a fed-up tone whether its a 911 crisis or spilt milk.
     Take a moment by yourself and examine how not only what you say but how you say it comes across to others.  If you think it's uncontrollable, think of the tone you use in moments when you're not on pins and needles. So calm down, use that tone and you'll see the trash disappear faster than you would otherwise.

Got His Eye on You

 2 Corinthians 4;17 ''For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.''
2 Corinthians 4;8  ''We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; ⁹ persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.''


     Do you know that God is always looking out for you?  He always has his eye on you and the protection that goes with it.
     One morning, while living in the duplex in Springfield, I took my dog out to let her go to the bathroom. I was on my scooter in my nightgown with no shoes or braces. I just took Brandi across the street, not too far since I was half dressed. This was supposed to be quick. yea right?  I took Brandi for walks every afternoon after work down this street.  So when I turned the handlebar of the scooter back towards the duplex, she unexpectantly snapped the handlebar with her leash back the other direction to go for a walk. The weight of my body was on my arms and the force threw me off the scooter into the middle of the street. I landed face first right into the asphalt.  Thankfully, the leash stayed on the scooter so Brandi was safe from running off.  I, on the other hand, was stuck in the street with blood pouring out my nose and mouth.  I saw a truck coming down the street.  My first thought was 'I hope he sees me and doesn't run over me.'  As the truck went around me and was passing me, I was stunned. 'Are you kidding me??'  He did stop after he got around me. He got out and said 'you stay right there, I'll be right back.'  Umm, ok..lol..if I could get up I wouldn't be in the street?!  An ambulance finally came after circling the block for ten minutes trying to find my street.  My neighbor put Brandi and my scooter in the duplex for me.  I was taken to the ER to be patched up.  You would think I was safe now but not so.  They left me in a room alone with blood still draining down my throat.  I felt like I was choking and drowning in my own blood. There was no nurse button and I couldn't yell for help.  I was able to wave down somebody and that suction device didn't leave my hand from then on.  My good friend, Georgia, came and took me and my broken nose home.
     I tell you this story to show you how alone I was and without my own devices to help myself and yet God provided for and protected me in each frightening moment.  You are never alone.  His very name, Emmanuel, means 'God with us.'

Politics

     I am not a political person at all.  I think I've only voted twice in my life.  I think it's important to exercise our right to vote and to choose a candidate with similar values but my true trust is not in them.  They are human just like the rest of us and have a sinful nature.  Their campaign 'promises' are often just words that are a means to an end with little value. Our country's future lies in the people turning their hearts back to God as our forefathers intended, not in a smooth talking candidate.
     Aren't you glad that God's promises are faithful and true?  He and His Word are never changing and always guiding us to a future that is good for us.
     I went to a Christmas program earlier this month and I thought the ending was misleading.  It portrayed people's problems in life going away because they chose to believe.  That's not true.  God doesn't promise His children an easy path in life of no troubles. He gives strength and comfort to get thru them. 


From the Daily Bread.....''Don’t ever let your worship of God become an avenue to good fortune.  We worship God because of His love for us and because of who He is, not because loving Him can help our bottom line.''

Expectations

     Well it's Christmas Eve.  I was out earlier today delivering a few presents to friends around town.  I was expecting heavy traffic but to my surprise, it wasn't bad at all. We went thru the Schlotzkey's drive thru and our dog, Jack, wasn't expecting anything but he got a free piece of ham.  It's now his favorite drive-thru..lol.
     People sometimes have high expectations of how the holiday season will be and reality disappoints them. We watch Christmas movies that have the huge tree with countless presents under it and the huge buffet of food at the pleasant family meal. Then we start comparing our situation with that make-believe world. Focusing on what we don't have instead of feeling blessed with what we do have can lead to a negative feeling for the holidays. We can instead make the most of things as Charlie Brown did with his Christmas tree. He was happy with his one ornament on the few sprigs of a tree he had. His positive perspective was from knowing he had good friends that loved him.  Linus even shared with him the real meaning of Christmas.
     Don't set yourself up with expectations on how things are going to be.  Just live in the moment and enjoy it.

Caroling

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     Look at this great crowd of FBF carolers and this doesn't show all of them. Sorry we didn't get the carolers by the door in the video.  There were 40-50 people who volunteered to spread Christmas cheer to me and other blessed folks last night.  They sang Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, Excelsius Deo, and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. How special and loved it makes one feel to enjoy such a wonderful moment. Showing the love of Christ to others is what Christmas is all about.  Thanks to you all. 

Peace on Earth

     Often when asked, people will say they want 'peace on earth' for Christmas. That is what Jesus brought to us with His birth.  He reconciles us with God as our mediator by paying our debt of sin with His blood on the cross.  His peace comes from your faith and submission to His will.  Anxiety and frustration replace the feeling of peace when we try to do things our way and not His.  Reading your Bible will guide you and get you back on that peaceful track. You can have His peace today, there's no need to wait.
      Here are a few truths about His peace that I copied from intouch.org.     

• God is in control of everything. Without this assurance, the world is a scary place.
• He loves me and will see me through every circumstance, no matter how difficult or painful it may be.
• To have Christ’s peace, I must surrender my life to Him. When I hold onto my ways and plans, I’ll experience turmoil.
• I have a limited perspective and understanding of my circumstances and God’s purposes for allowing them. His goals for me are greater than my immediate comfort.
• The Lord promises to work all things out for my good. He is continually working to transform my character into Christ’s image.
• I must live in sync with God, walking in the Spirit and promptly confessing and repenting of sin.
• Scripture is my foundation for peace. It increases my trust in the Lord’s goodness, assures me that He keeps His promises, and reminds me of His sovereignty over every situation.

Time Flies

     I think 2 and a half is the cutest time of a child.  It's certainly my favorite age. Several of my friends have a child at this age right now.  They're all adorable and are starting to show their own unique personalities. One in particular reminds me of myself and that's a little humbling.  She told her mom the other day, ''Just chill out. You hear me?''  Yes, we have the same sarcastic, blunt gene in our DNA.
     When I was this age, I threw my gum on the kitchen floor.  My mom told me to pick it up. 'No' was my firm reply. She spanked me over and over after each of my refusals to pick it up.  She put me in the corner till I was supposed to be ready to pick it up. I outlasted her patience with me..lol.  She drug me over to the gum, forced me to pick it up and then drug me to the trash can to dispose of it.  This story is according to my mom as I, just like Oliver North, do not recall. It certainly doesn't sound like me at all...haha.
      Although you may be tested to your limits in certain moments, enjoy this all too precious time in your child's life.  As my friend's blog, http://www.underherwings.blogspot.com/ , says time is fleeting for each one of us.  Savor the time with your little one, quiet or chaotic.

O Lord, make me know my end
and what is the measure of my days;
let me know how fleeting I am!
 Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths,
and my lifetime is as nothing before you.
Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! 

Psalm 39:4-5

Come A Long Way

     Okay, I'm going to date myself here but who remembers when Walmart was in the Indian Hills shopping center?  It seems so long ago. Walmart has come a long way since then and me too.  As a young teenager, I used to hide behind racks or go to another part of the store while my mom looked at the clothes.  ''Angelia, come look at this.''  Seriously?  She could have shown me the cutest thing ever and I would have hated it just because we were in Walmart.  My perspective changed when I was on my own and footing the bill.  Ha.  As I'd show things I'd bought, I didn't hesitate to say it was from Walmart.
     The value of a dollar is a good lesson learned.  Kids often think they're going to have their parents lifestyle and pay grade as soon as they move out.  Not so, it takes time and hard work. Where stuff comes from shouldn't really matter, either you like it or you don't. It's all susceptible to moths, fire and wear n tear.  Some things are worth the extra price for quality.  I'd rather tell about a bargain than tell how some brand label took my last dollar.  Manage your money and purchases wisely because there's only so much in the bank.

Go For It

     How many of us can claim to put the 'pro' in to 'procrastination?'  Don't we all look like the top kitten when something like the cluttered garage or the backlog of gifts to be wrapped is mentioned.  You think, yea I know it's there but I'll get to it later. Woah, to the daring soul who might ask you when you're going to start the put-off project. 'When I get good and ready' might be your answer.  Overwhelming is usually the best way to describe tackling such a feat.  When the time is either right or is up, you will get it done.  What a great feeling of accomplishment that comes with it.  Does your smile now resemble the kitten on the bottom as you shout 'woohoo'?
     This time of year can be stressful but don't let procrastination self-inflict it on you.  Get done what you can today, as that happy 'finished' smile awaits to be worn.

His Power

 


     Don't you think we overestimate our own power and strength? Then why do we often underestimate God's power in anything?  Do you pray with the belief that He will make it happen, according to His will?  If you have received an answered prayer, then you know how powerful He is first-hand.  Our own weak minds can't fathom how some things we want to happen can come true so we don't even ask for them. Why do we have to know how?  We don't. We can just know and believe that nothing is beyond His power. 
     A friend of our missionary friends in Mexico has been kidnapped in the last couple of weeks.  Even tho we know he is in the hands of the enemy, we trust that God can change their hearts and release him. As we pray without ceasing for this man, we must not doubt God's power in this desperate situation.
     When we say it's 'impossible', God says 'Im possible.'

Matthew 21;21-22  '' Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

How To Show Love

    Okay, so this should be one of the most loving times of the year, right?  Did you feel that way as you were stuck in the long line of holiday traffic or at the family get-together with unnerving relatives?  Not speaking personally here..hehe.  Sometimes we need a reminder on how we can show our love to others. We are told to even love our enemies but we wonder 'How?'  The caption above gives 10 ways to show love, with scripture to back it up.  If these weren't do-able, they wouldn't be in the Word.  By the way, these are good year-round. 

   L-love O-others V-viewing E-eternity

Lean On Him

''Only as we face one faith-stretching challenge after another and experience God’s faithfulness will we learn to depend on Him instead of ourselves.'' from intouch.org


     Are you grateful for both the good and bad times in your life?  We are supposed to be but it is tough. The quote above answers the question, 'why is this happening,' rather well. The trust we learn from trials helps us when the next one comes. Trust should be an additive quality but we often deduct from it with our arrogant hearts.  If we would only humble ourselves, we would realize how weak we really are. Our lives are about so much more than our desires but about His will for us.  Depending on the Lord is your greatest strength.

Cirque du Soleil

     As Billy Joel would say 'Oh, what a night.'  We went to see this show at Verizon arena last night.  The weather was perfect at 65 degrees, which is highly unusual for December.  We had great seats to see everything.  I took my machine and enjoyed all night cough-free, an answered prayer. The show is a mixture of eastern and western chinese acrobatics. I highly recommend the show for both kids and adults. If you're wondering where all your strength, flexibility, and energy went, these performers stole it while we were all standing in the DNA line..ha. No, really the training they must do is probably overwhelming.
     A few of my favorite acts are as follows but everything was great and amazing.  There was a ring that hung down from the ceiling.  A woman hung from that ring by her neck, her arched back, and her feet.  She did all this while twirling and flipping around in midair.  Part of the stage setup was a wall with two small rectangular trampolines in front of it. The guys would jump off the top of the wall, down to the trampoline, and then walk up the wall like Spiderman...so cool.  There was a juggler that kept 4-6 balls going while doing all kinds of acrobatic tricks on the stage floor. There was also a couple that did a love story kind of act as they swung around on long fabric that came down from the ceiling like ribbon. The woman, so strong, held the man in midair by one arm. There was a jump rope team that formed a 7-4-1 person pyramid that jumped without breaking formation.  It's all just 'wow' throughout the whole show and this is just a snipet of it all.
     After the show, since I was doing so well, we went to IHOP. A blueberry crepe and coffee were the perfect ending to a wonderful night.  Praise to Him who showers me with blessings every day but this night was a downpour of goodness.

I've Got It, Okay

     How in control of things do you feel?  We often feel we are indestructable.  We push the limits of our weak strength.  How do you feel when you're realize you're not in control?  It's hard to let someone else be in charge or submit to decisions we don't agree with or understand.
     When it came to driving, I was the squirrel in the picture above. I've told you before I often drove fast but I haven't disclosed that I rarely wore a seatbelt. My reasoning was that I felt more in control and less hindered without a seatbelt.  People often asked or begged me to wear one but to no avail.  I once had a wreck with my boss in the car.  He asked me before we started on our trip if I was going to put my seatbelt on. No, I'm ok.  After the wreck, when the cop asked if we were wearing seatbelts, my boss said he was and let me say that I wasn't.  Oh how God's protection covered me all those years. The control I thought I had was just an illusion.  It was actually an act of grace from God towards me.
     So now that I can't drive, you won't catch me without a seatbelt. The passenger seat sheds a whole new light on the value of a seatbelt. [giggle]  Thankfully, my protection is still most provided by God's hands. He is in control of where you are and the situation we are in.  Isn't that comforting?  We shouldn't be reckless or foolish in our ways because as much control as you think you have over things...you are not in control, God is..

Decisions

     Are you a good decision maker?  Some decisions need to be thought over with ample time but other decisions need to be made with a quick response.  Often people want to pass the buck and have others decide for them.  I think this can develop into a bad habit.  Some of the most important questions in life are only left for you to decide.
     One day I was on my way home after work.  There is about a two mile stretch of interstate between work and my exit to go home. I was headed east-bound when I noticed a tractor-trailer tire was bouncing towards me from the west-bound lanes.  I don't know where it came from but I knew I had to think fast.  I could slow down and maybe it would pass in front of me? But I couldn't go in reverse if need be.  Or I could speed up and pass it before it got to me?  If I speed up and we meet, it'll be quick and over.  I had about 5 seconds to decide how this story would end.  The tire was now in the median.  You would think it would fall over but no, it didn't.  I floored it, as you might expect if you know me very well.  The tire passed behind me somewhere and no other cars got hit either.
     The fatal tire will hit each of us someday and we most likely won't see it coming.  Your time is now to make decisions about your life and your eternal destiny.  Don't wait too long!

HEY!

     'Hey' can be a powerful three letter word.  It can be a nice greeting to someone when you can't remember their name...hey there.  It can be a sharp, direct attention getter.. HEY! I'm talking to you. It's probably one of the loudest words I can say because it's one syllable and it doesn't require alot of air to deliver its punch.  I'll give two stories on 'hey', with and without effect.
     One cold winter day in Springfield, I decided to go to the local grocery store, Price Cutter.  I noticed after I got in the van that my scooter's battery was low. I thought it would be fine since I was just going to be in there for a few minutes. I parked in the space right in front of the sliding glass doors. When I came back out, it had begun to snow. I hurried to get the van open and get inside.  Well, no such luck.  My battery would only get my scooter half-way up the ramp.  Back down and try again..not any better. Okay so I just needed a push. I started out with the polite 'excuse me' as I tried to wave down people as they walked by.  I began to think I was invisible. So as the colder and more snowed on I got, the shorter my temper got.  The next shopper got a sharp 'HEY' from me and I got a push up the ramp and out of the snow.
     Another time, I was to stay overnight in the hospital to have a sleep study done.  They put me in a room with someone else.  I didn't know who they were or what they had but I did find out they snored louder than a freight train. I started out with 'shhh', then to 'SHHH!', and then ultimately 'HEY, BE QUIET.'  It was all of no use. The sleep study was a failure because I got no sleep all night.
     Do you hear God's whispers or is He shouting 'HEY' to try to get your attention?

No Coincidence

     If you haven't read 'The Hiding Place' by Corrie ten Boom, its a must read. The wisdom she gained as she struggled thru Nazi concentration camp is still inspiring lives today. The quote above tells us how nothing is a coincidence but a part of God's bigger plan.  Have you questioned why you've endured a long sickness or heartache or any hardship?  It's to teach you something and show you your need to lean on His everlasting arms. Have you ever stopped to think of what life would have been like without certain people? The Lord knows who we need to come into our lives or who to let out at just the right times.  Only God knows where our future is headed so let us embrace each experience and person He gives us as a way to learn His desires for us.
 Proverbs 3:6  'in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.'
 Proverbs 4:11 'I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.'

Let the Games Begin

     Last night was such a fun time at the Women of Faith's ornament exchange party.  Before I tell you about it, I want to give praise for going 4hours and 20 min without my air machine. Awesome, especially since I've been coughing for 2 weeks.  Okay, now about the party.  We started out with singing Christmas carols, then a missionary update letter from Lesley and then soup/salad from the Olive Garden. I didn't eat because of my cough but everyone else seemed to really enjoy it.  In the past, we've ate at a restaurant and then gone to someone's house.  Having it at the church's fellowship hall was so much better.. no distractions, less traveling and we could be as loud or quiet as we wanted.
     The ornament exchange game...oh my goodness, these women are ruthless..lol.  If you think I'm competitive, watch out, these ladies are on a whole other level.  There was more wheelin' and dealing than Chicago's own Blagojevich could dream about. It was all in fun, even the 'trash' talk. I think everybody ended up happy with their ornament they took home. I know I did, even tho one of my best friends was the first to steal it from me.  Three of us formed an alliance and dealed till we all got our desired ornaments.
     What a great night all around. Looking forward to next year's party.

12 Christmas Prayers

       I read the Daily Bread today and it posed the question of what would you ask for if God directly asked you, like Solomon, what you wanted from Him.  That's a tough question and I doubt I would be as wise as Solomon. Good health seems like a good answer but it's a temporary solution for part of this life. Aren't we already promised that in our new bodies in heaven?  The 12 prayer requests above not only help us, helps us with others and gives thanks to our Lord.  We ask for guidance from above and here the verses tell us exactly what we need from Him.  God is transforming us every day into His likeness and these verses guide us by beginning with 'let us be' what He desires for us. These 12 prayers will help us to reach our ultimate goal of eternity with Christ, while we wait here on earth.

We Need...

     Have you heard the song that goes 'this world is not my home, I'm just a passing through'?  We should avoid getting drawn in by worldly characteristics in ourselves. The caption above illustrates how we are not to be of this world but to be and portray ourselves as different Godly women. These qualities like tenderness, kindness, refinement, faith, goodness, virtue and purity are simple ways to set yourself apart from worldliness.  The worldly qualities mentioned above are self-serving and temporary. Women of the world are a dime a dozen, don't you wana be a rare gem? 

You Matter

     Do you ever feel unimportant?  Wonder why you're even here?  Emotions and thoughts in our heads can lead us down a road of low self-esteem.  It's a destructive path of falsehood.  Each one of us was made by God with a purpose in mind. Exodus 9:16 ''But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.''   Psalm 33:11 ''But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.''  You may not yet know or understand what exactly He has in mind for you but one thing for sure, is that you matter to Him.  Luke 12;6-7  ''Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.'' God provides, protects, heals, and comforts each one of His children because they are important to Him.
     This world can make you feel overlooked even when you're trying to make a difference. Even if your good deeds go unnoticed or unappreciated, they're not irrelevant.  Colossians 3;23-24 ''Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.'' 
     Don't feel small or unimportant, YOU are a significant and relevant part of His plan.

Smile

     Psalm 37; 1-4  ''Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong;  for like the grass they will soon wither,like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.''
     When I read the first part of this verse, I think of the Occupy WallStreet movement.  They are not only fretting over those they think are evil but causing chaos themselves.  I see it as a waste of time and would rather see them actually 'doing something' good.  Leave the payback to God and He will give you your desires
     The second part has to do with jealousy of wrong doers.  When we work hard for something and get it, it puts a smile on our face.  If we see people with more than us, its easy to want that too.  How they obtained it is important tho.  You can admire and respect those who didn't follow crooked paths to get what they have and to get where they are.
     Psalm 37 goes on to say that we are not to turn to anger and that the wicked will be destroyed.  By God's hand and wrath, not ours. The meek will inherit the earth so consider what little you have in earthly terms as much in heavenly terms....our treasure is in Heaven.

Patience

    Okay, so according to this caption I've often not had the ability to be patient.  As I get older, I think I'm less patient but give more grace so it kind of evens out.  I'm what you might call a situational-dependent patient person..lol.  I've learned patience in some areas of my life but not so much in others.
    One day my dad came up to Springfield to bring me back here for a few days off.  I don't remember why I hadn't eaten but I was starving.  We stopped and got a Subway sandwich to go.  I literally, as you will see, inhaled it.  I couldn't eat it fast enough to satisfy my hunger.  Well, about 5 miles down the road I started needing to cough.  My dad pulled into the Walmart parking lot on the north side of town. Do we need to go to the hospital, my dad asked.  No, just give me a minute, I'll be fine.  This same conversation went on for the next thirty minutes.  Even tho I didn't know my lips were now turning blue, I agreed we needed to go to the ER.  It was on the south side of town.  My dad drove 80mph thru town.  We got there safely, PTL, and he carried me in.  I told them I just needed respiratory because I had choked and couldn't breathe.  My oxygen was now 65... should be in the upper 90's.  They sent everybody in except respiratory.  I was more than impatient and frustrated.  Then guess who they sent in?  A chaplain to read me my last rites!  I said with all the breath and spunk I could muster to, 'get the heck out. I don't need a chaplain, I need respiratory.'  He left and the respiratory team eventually came. I cut to the chase and told them I needed a bronchoscopy ASAP.  They suctioned out what you could visably see as lettuce, ham, tomato, bread, etc.  So as you can see my patience and attitude were shot down by panic.
      Lesson learned.....don't get so hungry that you eat too fast and get choked.  Take your time and have a lil patience.
   

One Pair of Hands

    

     When I look at my own hands, I see and feel how weak they are. How foolish it is to rely on their strength in sickness and in health. The One who created these hands with His own two hands is stronger than anything.  His hands made everything in this world.  It is one creative masterpiece that we get to enjoy and marvel at.  As the song above says, he formed the mountains to the rivers to the moon in the sky.  That one pair of hands has the power to heal and provide for all of our needs. Those precious hands also suffered thru the piercing of nails on the cross for us. What a promise we have from His hands to resurrect us after our physical death here on this earth.  All that His hands have done, are doing and will do is out of His deep love for us.

     So why wouldn't you put your faith into such powerful, creative, loving hands?  God's got the whole world in His hands.  Put your whole heart into His one pair of hands.

Don't Shoot

Psalm 56:3-4  When I am afraid, I will trust in you.  In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?

     Have you ever been held at gunpoint by the police?  Hopefully not but I have. When I read this verse, I think mortal man could have made a mistake and shot me.  I trust tho that God's hand of protection was over me then and now.

     So I'm sure you are curious as to what the heck I was doing. Well while living in Dallas newly married, we couldn't afford a monthly car payment. I don't remember how we found this guy but he arranged an agreement to lease our car to another couple.  They would take over the payments but we would still own it.  The lease said they couldn't take it outside of Texas.  Somehow we found out they had moved to Louisiana. So in the dark of the night, unannounced, we drove to Lousiana and drove the car back. We didn't want a confrontation so we didn't tell the other couple what we were doing.  Everything seemed to go fine.  Until the next day, when we were on our way to the store.  If you're familiar with the cloverleaf exit in front of Six Flags, that's where we got pulled over.  It was unbelievable to say the least!!!  2 cops cars and rifles pointed  at us.  Over the megaphone they said, 'Put your hands on your head.'  Thankfully I was stronger at this point in my life but I was still afraid my right arm would slip off my head and they'd shoot me.  They had Marc get out with his hands in the air then cuffed him.  He told them I couldn't get out like that.  The car had been reported stolen but he explained the situation and that the lease agreement was in the glove compartment.  So a police officer came to my side of the car to look for it.  He asked me if there were any weapons in the car?  Well I didn't want to get caught in a lie and I knew we had a pistol-looking beebe gun in one of our identical cars but I couldn't remember if it was in the green one or the red one.  So I said, 'I don't know.'  We got hauled off to the police station for a couple of hours where we got it all straightened out.  No charges but they gave us a strong suggestion of talking to the people next time.

     Aren't we thankful for God's protection throughout all of our lives?  Yes because no one is numb from being young and dumb.

    

Fear

   

   Do you ever not do something because of reasons that you think might happen?  We can always find an excuse not to do something but that's kind of a pessimistic view of things.
       I've never been on what most of you would call a 'diet' but I do have to avoid things that I know will make me cough.  Milk, nuts, lettuce, and the list goes on.  Well last night, my dad and I went to Jason's Deli for dinner. I've been there a few times in the past few months. I've wanted but denied myself the chicken pot pie each time I went because I was afraid it would make me cough. Last night, I just went for it and ordered it.  It was fantastic and didn't make me cough.  I'm sure it tasted better than usual because I had wanted it for so long. So since my will power of denial had left the building, I decided to push my limits with their free ice cream.  Two bites and I knew it was time to call it quits.
     Fear can prevent you from some of the good things in life.  Fear of groups can hinder your fellowship with others, fear of being alone can prevent quiet time with God, or fear of judgement by your peers can hinder you sharing your testimony freely.  Let unjust fear be a warning, not a total barricade.  ''Fear not, says the Lord, for I am with you.''

Chemistry

       Two semesters of Organic Chemistry at UCA just about did me in but I made it through it. It was one of those classes that separated the dedicated from the weak.  At the start of the semester, there were probably 90 students or more, then in about a month there were the die-hard 40 left.  My professor was Dr.Rapp and he was great.  I spent alot of time in his office and the lab.  The lab..ugh.  Four hours would be my average time in there.  No lab partners and we had to journal our experiments.  It took foreverrrrrrrrrrr.  I'd come home to my rented room, throw my backpack down and watch Thirtysomething to unwind every week after that lab.
      Chemistry is a funny thing.  Do you have people in your life that you've clicked with since the moment you met?  I do and I can't explain it, except some sort of chemistry.  I think it's pretty cool and tho rare, I love when it happens.
      Chemical reactions are fascinating to watch.  To think tho that a chemical reaction could somehow create the universe, 'the big bang theory,' is ridiculous. Its just a man-made attempt to understand what only our Creator knows and made.  Genesis 1;1 'In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.'  Faith takes care of the things we can't explain so let's focus on what makes up that...
Jesus + the cross + your heart

1 Corinthians 3;18-20   'Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness”, and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.”
1 Corinthians 13;12   'For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.'

Watch Out

    Instead of  ''Houston, we have a problem,'' I have to say ''NLR, we have a problem.''  Yes, its that serious.  3 Flamingos on JFK has closed its doors without warning. The tables and machines are all gone, you can see if you peek in the window. I would have stocked up if I'd had any notice at all.  My favorite is birthday cake yogurt with spiced apple running at a close second.  Yes, I've tried a few other yogurt shops but none compares to 3 Flamingos. [I could break out in song with 'nothing compares to you' by sinead o'conner..lol..but I won't.]  Not knowing if they're moving or totally calling it quits is the hard part.  I can be patient if I know how long it'll be.
    Isn't that how our patience usually is? We want a timeline for everything. We can estimate how long something will usually take but go beyond that and we're ready to swing a bat at somebody.  My doctor's office has a sign 'Patients please have patience.'  As we wait without knowing, help us to know and remember God's timing is perfect in all things.

FBF Prayer Requests for December

FBF Missionary Prayer Requests for December


Bobby and Namatha Avilez

1.       Pray for the preparations for our Christmas Outreach on December 23^rd. We usually have around 400 people. Pray that the Gospel Message will be presented clearly and boldly!

2.       Pray that, whether it’s House of Hope staff or House of Hope children, the glory of God would be the motivation for whatever we do.

Phillip and Sandra Prime

1. Please continue to pray for Juan and Karina. They have been very faithful to all the church events. It seems that they are truly hungry for the Word. Pray for their salvation.
2. Please pray for the monthly hospital outreach. Many are attending and putting into practice what we are learning in our evangelistic class: The Way of the Master.

Bill and Treva Turpin-- Bethany Farm Camp and Retreat Center here in SW Iowa has several needs:

 

to finish siding and roofing the new boy's bunkhouse before the snow flies

Bible studies and 1 on 1 discipleship for our many new believers, both youth and adults

to begin a new Christ-centered Grief Share program here at Bethany

 

Ted and Priscilla Clark

We will be putting on our Christmas presentation at the camp for large crowds these two middle weekends in December.  Please pray with us for many unsaved people, whose hearts the Lord has prepared, to attend the presentations.

Please continue to pray that the Lord would give great wisdom to the authorities in this country, who are trying to combat the violence.  Pray for an increased ability in authorities at all levels to resist corruption, to be courageous, and to have a zeal for justice.  Pray that the Lord would powerfully intervene to thwart and confuse and frustrate the plans of evil men.  Pray for the Lord’s powerful protection upon us and other missionaries across the country.

Martin and Hansy Tuohy

1. More steady job situation come January. We'll need the extra income then and working as a sub trashman may not be enough.

2. Evangelistic efforts (passed out the movie "180" in the neighborhood, waiting for response)

Monica Sernatinger

Juanita. She is teaching three different evangelistic Bible studies to her relatives, and a bible study for young women to three teenage girls, and several young married women. Please pray for wisdom for her and perseverance from these precious ladies.

Coral, a divorced young mother of one, has gotten engaged to a non-believer. As a church, we have been encouraging her to leave this relationship. Please, pray for her repentance. Also, please pray for Luz and Chalio, that they would return to Christ. Lately they have been showing interest in Him.

Leslie Wolfe

It’s true that a new chief was appointed, but it’s believed that another elder is actually the one in charge and/or calling the shots.  The 6 elders (who are all from the same clan) are divided (fractured would be a better word), and it’s interesting where the divide (fracture) comes --- 3 are ‘church people’ and 3 are animists.  Two of the ‘church people’ are same ma/pa brothers and are united, and the 3 animists (who include the new chief and the one really in power) are together, and the odd man out, who is also a church person, is B.K., who says that he’s not taken up sides.  Last week under the cover of darkness I was advised by a ‘son’ of mine (whose father is the supposed one in charge) to remember that I am a foreigner here (anyone living in the village who is not Glaro is a foreigner) and that as a foreigner and a woman I should keep my mouth shut (not that I’ve ever played a role in village decision making!!!).  I was also told that the former chief, who died in September, had planned (boasted?) to oust me from the village when I returned.  Well, he’s dead, and my ‘son’ told me that no one else among the elders is my ‘enemy’ and wants me to leave.  So, it’s life as usual, kind of, here in the village!   So…

1)      Pray for me as I just go about my work on a daily basis; and as I’ve been reading in Psalms, trusting in and praising the Lord as I do, while living uprightly and doing good to all. 

2)      Pray that the division among the elders, who are all closely related and family, will be healed so that they will be reconciled and able to govern the village with wisdom and unity.

Glow Worms

     We all know a few glow worms.  They jump out of bed all perky and raring to go on any given day. That is NOT me. Its wishful thinking but don't hold your breath. I need time and after 10am is good..lol.  Even tho I drove like a wild woman to get to work, I did enjoy that 20min to myself to get my mood and self together.  Some people need a cup of coffee before they can face the world. A friend of mine's mother used to always wake her up in a Mary Poppins kind of voice with ''good morning, good morning, good morning to you.''  My friend asked ''why is it good? just say morning.''  I second that..ha.
     If we can't glow at all hours, we should at least glow as much as we can.  Another friend always starts his prayers off with ''thank you Lord, for another day of life.''  I bet that's how glow worms start their days.. with a grateful heart.

HaHa

     I often wear my air mask in the car. I'll see something funny but it has passed by before I can share it with anyone.  This happened Fri night on the way to IHOP at 10pm..lol.  Have you seen the billboard on 67/167 for Panera Bread?  It advertises their chicken stew with a DRY biscuit?  Seriously, a dry biscuit is not going to lure me in. I think even I can make one of those.  I just laughed to myself as we drove by.
     The mask gives me alot of alone time to think.  It is good to recall different memories just for yourself.   I don't think we stop and remember enough of our lives. We are so busy planning for tomorrow that we get lost in it and dont appreciate our yesterdays.  ''Its not the number of breaths we take, but the number of moments that take our breath away.''

New Life

     This blog is dedicated to my friend's younger brother, Weldon Lewis IV, aka Jr.  He fought a hard battle for over 12yrs after a car accident but went to be with the Lord on Nov 24th at age 35.  Jr. was always a kind, friendly, outgoing, smart young man. I can remember him and his sister trying to teach me how to  throw the basketball 'granny style' in front of their house. Jr seemed to always be surrounded by friends whether playing video games or just hanging out.  He will truly be missed by his family and friends.  As the caption tries to describe tho, he is now enjoying a world like never before in a new body with Christ. How wonderful for him to do all that he wants to now. We will never meet this side of heaven but we can meet him someday on that beautiful shore.  Until then, we can be thankful for the time we shared and cherish those memories.  May Jr's life and death create a closer relationship with you and the Lord.

Midnight Shopping

     So my dad took me to Kohl's at midnight for some crazy shopping.  You wouldn't believe how many people there were out there in that 40 degree weather.  My dad asked me before we even parked on the outskirts of the lot, if I still wanted to go. YES.  I figured by the time we parked and got out, that the line would be gone and everyone in the store. Wrong, two lines with only one moving.  Let me stop here and preface this by saying.. I know Ive spoke of putting others first but in crowds like these, you're on your own buddy...lol.  Actually I was on the receiving end of that kind of grace. A lady and a family in front of her told us we could go in with them, even after the cop told me to go to the end of the line.  So I was happy to join their group.  We went in and shopped about an hour.  As I was trying to look near the petite section, there were all these people standing there. I asked, 'what are they doing?'  It was the line to checkout all the way back there.  I just kept shopping till I inadvertanly wound up back in the front of the store.  Well, much to my surprise I saw a checkout register with only two people that were together standing at it . How cool is that? So I got right up there. I thought she must have just opened the register or those people in that long line are just following the crowd and not looking. I just chalked it up as a blessing because I was running out of air.  After I checked out, my dad said 'you know you cut in line just then.'  What?  He said there was a worker directing people from that long line into the four registers. Well, I never saw them.  There is an advantage to a scooter with a low vantage point...lol.  Well I didn't buy the store out but it was fun shopping with a couple of bonuses that made it faster and easier. 
     If you're wondering if I went shopping on Black Friday during the day, no I didn't.  Think I'm crazy?  lol I'm waiting for Cyber Monday........haha.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

My top 10 reasons to be thankful...........

1.  For my Savior who is always there for me in every way every day.
2.  For my mom and dad
3.  For all my friends
4.  For Tiger, Tux, and Jack
5.  For the past year of renewed strength and testing of faith and trust
6.  For the promises and hope that lies ahead
7.  For the past which is what made me who I am today
8.  For each answered prayer
9.  For living in a country that is free
10.  For each new day that is granted, healthy or sick, to blog about how God is using me for His glory.

Thankful

     Okay let's face it, this is what most of us are going to look like or at least feel like tomorrow.  There is more food left but you're jam packed.  How blessed are we to have a kitchen full of food at our fingertips. After going to two grocery stores looking for a young chicken fryer and finding them both sold out, I wondered if more families were having chicken instead of turkey this year?  With the cost of Thanksgiving dinner in all aspects going up and the number of people without jobs, it could be.  People want to preserve the holiday tradition but must adapt within their budget. That's okay, its not about 'what' you're eating but who and what you have to be thankful for. The Compassion Center is feeding the homeless and needy all weekend at the fairgrounds. I'm sure with the economy the way it is, there will be more people there seeking a hot meal to celebrate Thanksgiving.  The location that you stop and acknowledge what you're grateful for is also unimportant. God looks at our hearts not at the fluff.
     Whatever you're having and wherever you're at, give thanks to The One who provides for all your needs.  We have much to be grateful for.

Who's There?

    Last night on the news, they had a segment on whether your dog would really react and protect your property against a burglar.  The conclusion was that most family dogs don't have the fighting disposition but that their bark is usually enough to scare off a prowler.
    This reminded me of the time we took Girlfriend to see my grandmother at the nursing home. The door to her room was shut as we were visiting and there was a knock at the door. Girlfriend barked, pretty loud I must say..lol.  We opened the door and no one was there?  When we started to leave, an aide said someone had told her we had a big dog. She said 'where is it?'  We pointed to 5 pound Girlfriend in my dad's arms.  ''That's the big dog?''  She laughed and said well she sure scared the other aide.
     Another time David and I took Girlfriend to see his mother in the nursing home. David told Girlfriend she had to be quiet before we went in.  While we were there, she needed to go out.  She made the softest, lil bark you've ever heard. We thought it was pretty cute.
     We can learn a lesson from Girlfriend. There's a time to bark loud and a time to bark soft.  Our bark is controllable, if we want to.

Renew Their Strength

     This time last year I missed out on all but one of the fun holiday activities. I wasn't strong enough to go for long periods of time.  Over the past year, the Lord has renewed alot of my strength.  I am 'soaring on wings like an eagle' as I do my best to attend all the church events and fellowship with fellow believers.  Some people may take for granted the privilege of going to everything. As I look around this year, several friends of mine are struggling with health issues.  With so much to do and things to go to, its not the best time to be sick.  So speaking from experience to those of you not feeling up to snuff, put your hope in Him and you will get through this. Yes, it takes more patience than you think you have but He will give you all you need.  His grace is sufficient.

Just Thinkin'

     To me this squirrel looks like he's thinking. ''Now where, oh where, did I store those nuts for this winter?''  I often hide presents during the year and then when the occasion for it arrives, I've forgotten not only where I put it but the gift itself. I found a birthday gift just the other day that will now be a Christmas gift..lol.
     Have you ever gone to the store to find and replace your favorite lipstick or hair color and they no longer have it?  Yea, the company has now come up with the 'new and improved' version.  It's never the same.  I think they do this so you have to buy more than one to find the closest match.  I found out the other day, the company that makes my breathing mask is discontinuing it...aghhh!  I've tried umpteen number of masks and this is 'the only' one that comfortably fits my face and doesn't leak too bad.  So do I trust that God will provide for what I truly need?  Yes!  How has it been proven to me already?  My local medical supplier has stock piled a two year supply of masks and parts for me. The respiratory therapist even said they have a shelf saying 'Do not touch. For Angie Bridger.'  ha
    Whatever you need in your life, God will provide.  You may not know ahead of time, like I did in this case, but that's where trust in Him comes in.

Being There

    If you could see the future but still be in the present, would you want to?  It's a tough question. I think we'd wanna see the good but not necessarily the bad.  Doctor's offices can often be the setting for this dilemna.  Alot of people avoid the doctor entirely just to avoid knowing anything. Just come what may.
    Friends of mine recently got an unwanted glimpse of what's to come. Its scary and overwhelming. Knowing though can help you prepare and handle things better.  It can also help you know if there is anything to delay or improve matters.  No matter what comes their way, their trust is in the Lord and their hope is in Him.
     It is comforting tho to have a friend just to be there by your side. Whether you talk or not, the presence of someone lets you know they're available to your needs.  There's no friend like Jesus, but we can be a comforting friend in our own way.

Desperation

     Okay, so with all the heavy rain we had earlier this week and more to come next week, I thought I'd share a little memory.  We lived in Stuttgart, AR when I was in 2nd thru 4th grade. My elementary school was across the street from our house and my dad's office was diagonal to our house.  I was a latch-key kid part of that time after school.  Well one day that was a gully washer, I either forgot my key or lost it but I was locked out.  My 50 pound, soaking wet self decided to walk to my dad's office.  The rain was coming down in sheets and the wind was so hard, it turned my umbrella wrong side out. [I knew exactly how Dorothy of The Wiz of Oz felt.] I kept truckin' along.  About 3/4th's of the way there, a UPS man stopped to offer me a ride.  I knew better than to take a ride from a stranger, even tho I was pretty desperate. I said, 'no, I'm just going right there', as I pointed to the office.  He was nice and walked with me there to make sure I made it safely.
    Desperation can make us question what we know is the right thing to do.  Don't fall for it.  Whether it takes extra patience in waiting or a lil more effort on your part, don't risk danger by taking the easy route. Follow your gut and do what's right.

Others First

     Putting the needs of others before our own is a way of showing grace and kindness. It will make you feel good too.  I visited a friend yesterday who recently had a baby and has been cooped up for a while.  I certainly know how that feels,[the cooped up part..lol], and the good feeling that a little company brings.  Yes, it was pouring down with rain yesterday and her house is not the easiest to get into for me.  I gladly did it for her and the rewards for me were joy-filled.
     If you question doing something for someone that may take a lil extra effort, ask yourself  'would you want them to do it for you?'  Giving someone a ride, giving to the love offering, or visiting someone in the nursing home are just a few examples of doing your part to sacrifice a little of you for someone else.
    The ultimate grace was shown to us when God sent His Son to save us from sin.  If we truly want to be like Him, then we will think and act with grace by putting others before ourselves.

I'm Stuck, Now What?

     Have you ever gotten yourself stuck and had to wait for help?  It's an uncomfortable place to be in.  We are so used to being independent of help from others. 'Need some help? No, I got it.'  Pride is often a barrier to our acceptance of help. If someone is kind enough to offer help, shouldn't you be gracious enough to accept it?
     One time when I lived in the duplex in Springfield, I let my dog out without a leash. She went where I couldn't see her so I got off the sidewalk onto the grass.  It was cold with a little snow on the ground.  I called Brandi to come on and then realized my scooter was now stuck.  Brandi kept peaking out the door as if to say 'aren't you coming?'  So there I sat, cold without a coat. Pray and wait were my only options. My prayer was answered rather quickly when a neighbor came home and pushed my scooter out of the mud.
     They say ''when all you have left is God, you realize thats enough.''  Ask and you will receive, if its His will.  How many ways does God have to tell us that He is there for us, on our side and able to provide for all our needs. We have to talk with Him daily tho.  Prayer is our life line for help in all areas of our lives, not just when we're stuck.

The Difference

     Sure I like to have things but I could do without them if I had to.  I think of people who will stand in line for hours in inclement weather for the newest iPhone but would they help out someone in need for thirty minutes? I'll let them answer that.  Some try to show their love to others by buying them things but their time spent with them would mean so much more.
     Some people will pretend to love you, just to use your things. It's important to share what God has blessed us each with but time will show you if you're being used.  Friendship is a two-way street, not one-way.
    Black Friday is coming up next week and I'm all for shopping for bargains. Just remember to show people they are loved with more ways than purchased things. Time can't be packaged or bought, yet its more valuable than gold.

Look Further

     This caption makes me think of my friend, Lesley.  She is literally across the ocean serving as a missionary.  As do all missionaries, she has family and friends at home that she loves and misses.  She gives up the common everyday conveniences of the modern world. She faces danger in a country with an unstable government.  These are all reasons that could hold her back from her calling but it doesn't.  Why?  She faces the unknown with courage because she realizes the importance of spreading God's word.  Her translation work of the Bible reaches a people group, the Glaro, that would otherwise be untouched by the Word, but instead left to witchcraft.
     You too can reach your goals and fullfil your purpose, if you don't let things or fears hold you back.

A Star Is Born?

     I love Molly Shannon's character, Mary Katherine on SNL, to say 'Superstar'..lol
    Most kids like to dress up and pretend to be a 'Superstar.' The attention, the glamour and attempted talent is fun.  It makes you feel bigger than you think you are.
     When I was 4, we went to a music show up in Mountain View.  Near the end of the show, they asked if anyone in the audience wanted to come up on stage. I asked if I could and my parents said yes.  They say I got a lil shy after I got up there.  After the show, my dad had to go looking for me.  He found me backstage walking up and down the hall. 'What are you doing,' he asked.  'I'm looking for my dressing room!'
    Often kids will dress up as their role models...teacher, parent, etc.  Be the role model that you'd like to see imitated by your kid.

Just a Sip?

     We all like to sample new things.  You can even make a meal off free samples at Sam's Club on the weekend.  Just try and you'll buy it. Its a gimmick thats proven to work.
     The devil can also deceive us into thinking we can try things just once, just ask Eve.  Drug addiction comes first to my mind on this because so many addicts claim, they just wanted to try it once. Just a sip, just a taste, just a puff is all it took to ruin so many lives.  There are countless sins to avoid because our sinful minds will start to justify why one more time will be okay.  We lose our sensitivity to the moral ground we once believed in and fall into darkness.  Nancy Reagan's 'Just Say No' campaign in the 80's may seem simple but it really is the bottom line.  Temptation will move on to somewhere else when confronted with a non-wavering NO.
     Take a gulp of the good life and pass on the sip of sin.  Let your 'no' mean 'no', even to a sip.

Ephesians 4;19-21 ''Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.  That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.''

The Look

     Okay, apparently some of you out there gave me 'the look' thru your computer screens over yesterday's blog. That's okay.  If you know me very well, then you've probably been on the receiving end of 'the look' from me at some point..lol.  Since my voice is soft, sometimes the opportunity isn't right to say what I want.  Other times, I just know nothing good is going to come from my mouth so I keep it shut.  There are also times when no words are needed.  These are all scenarios when 'the look' might pop out.
     I'll give a couple of examples..lol.  I have an automatic bed and it broke a few months ago.  My dad said he'd fix it one day when I was upstairs taking a shower. Time passed till one day as I was going upstairs, I caught him in the driveway with a toolbox.  I asked, in a leading the witness kinda way, what are you going to work on? His trailer lights. Without a word spoken, I gave 'the look'. My eyes told and his eyes heard everything.  My bed has worked ever since I got back from that shower.
     One day, Charlene and I were out and she needed to run into the neighborhood market. I was going to wait for her in the van. I told her I was fine and there was no need to lock the van but she insisted.  When she came back, the remote wouldn't unlock the doors.  'The look' said with a panic, 'now I'm trapped.'  After a few more tries with the remote, she realized the old fashioned way would work.. the key.  lol. You might laugh but I didn't think of it either.
     We must be careful to watch what are eyes convey to others. Our thoughts can be boldly spoken by rolling our eyes or softly given by a subtle glance. Sometimes we aren't even aware our eyes are saying anything but they do.  Connie, who I worked with, could always tell if I didn't feel well. She'd say, I can see it in your eyes.
     Some times I need to close my mouth AND close my eyes...lol.

I Ate Too Much

     How many times have you felt like this fat cat?  I can definetely over indulge in a few things like guacamole and frozen yogurt.  The miserable feeling after we've crossed the line is certainly not pleasurable or worth it.  So why do we do it?  Boredom, not wanting to waste it, lack of self control, or because you're a member of the clean plate club. We used to go out for lunch on Saturdays with the plan to grocery shop afterwards.  I can't tell you how many times, we got so full that groceries were postponed to another day...ha.
     We must remember our bodies are a gift and a temple, not our own. Respecting our bodies with ample nourishment will make us feel better overall.

Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit

Canton Nov 2011

 We left for Canton, TX on Thursday, Nov 3rd.  The whole town turns into a flea market, with new and old stuff, the weekend before the first Monday of each month. We got there about 830pm.
Friday started out kinda cold so we went to the indoor mall first. 300 vendors there with booths. We ran into the lady who made my bench several years ago. She wasnt here on our last visit and this was her last show to sell at. I wish I had taken a picture with her. She is going to paint 4 new scenes for my bench by early spring.
Friday afternoon we went to the main area with long metal buildings filled with vendors. We brought my new machine so that when I got tired, I could get some air. Well when that time came, my mask broke.  aghhh.  I had a spare in the van so no harm. The crowds weren't too bad Friday.  We ate at dinner at our usual mexican restaurant, Juanitas...free ice cream.

Saturday, oh my gosh, was a mad house. We estimated at least 100,000 people were there. They say the economy is bad? not in Canton.  Jack went with us Sat afternoon. He thought everyone was his best friend, including this one dog, a bull mastiff, that wanted to eat him in one bite...lol.  The traffic picture below is us trying to go about 3 miles back to the rv..took over an hour. For die hard shoppers, its worth it..lol.  Needless to say, we ate in and watched the LSU/AL game. My dad came down with a cold this night too.
Sunday, we thought we were doing good to be ready by 1020am... wait its 920am? Thanks Verizon..lol.  When do you know its time to go home?  The owner at the last store stopped my dad and I at the door and said 'no wheelchairs allowed.'  Seriously?  I'm not sure thats legal but we left it at that and walked away.  If you go to Canton, boycott Laurie Annas... just my lil free advertising plug..lol.
We got home about 8pm Sunday night...whooped. It was a great trip that I've waited over a year for. Christmas shopping mostly done plus a few goodies for me..lol.
Sincerely,  Canton Junkie