This week was the initiation in Ohio that "brrr...winter is here". Ice storms hitting on Sunday's are always a challenge,
For some, it will keep them coming out to church, for others, nothing short of shutting the doors will keep them from church. What drives you in situations like that? Are you concerned for your own safety being on the road or is it that comfort zone? Whatever your position is, you still have the opportunity to draw close to God today. Don't let the day slip away without coming close to the One who loved you first and who loves you the most.
If your at our Millersburg campus, hope to see you there.
Stay warm, stay dry, be blessed.
Showing posts with label Encouragement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Encouragement. Show all posts
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Monday, April 21, 2008
The Win
Tonight I got measured in my Thin & Healthy counseling session at SuperFitness. Get this, I’ve lost 45.25” since January 29th. I’m really happy about it even though I still have a long way to go.
One of the most difficult parts of this program has not only been retraining my metabolism and my food intake but also my thought process about numbers. It seems that most of us, perhaps women more so than men, looks at the number on the scale and think that’s the tell-all sign of success. I’m in the process of retraining the way I look at numbers.
There are a lot of numbers to look at when your losing weight other than the scale. There’s percent body fat, inches lost, lean mass, fat gram intake, minutes of exercise and more.
My point is this…if I only measure success by the number on the scale and yet my pants are practically falling off of me … would you say I’m failing or winning in my lifestyle change?
Recently the staff at NewPointe Community Church has talked about identifying what “the win” looks like on a Sunday morning for our volunteers. In The ReignForest, the volunteers are winning when they engage preschoolers in activities, worship or they feel like they’ve made a connection. Volunteers win when we get little ones quieted down from their crying, change them and play with them.
We win when unchurched families start attending on a regular basis because Christ has made life change desirable because they find God’s grace, faithfulness, acceptance and love from Christ-minded servants inside the church.
There’s a win in life for you each day..do you see it? No?
Perhaps you need to retrain the way you think about what “the win” looks like.
One of the most difficult parts of this program has not only been retraining my metabolism and my food intake but also my thought process about numbers. It seems that most of us, perhaps women more so than men, looks at the number on the scale and think that’s the tell-all sign of success. I’m in the process of retraining the way I look at numbers.
There are a lot of numbers to look at when your losing weight other than the scale. There’s percent body fat, inches lost, lean mass, fat gram intake, minutes of exercise and more.
My point is this…if I only measure success by the number on the scale and yet my pants are practically falling off of me … would you say I’m failing or winning in my lifestyle change?
Recently the staff at NewPointe Community Church has talked about identifying what “the win” looks like on a Sunday morning for our volunteers. In The ReignForest, the volunteers are winning when they engage preschoolers in activities, worship or they feel like they’ve made a connection. Volunteers win when we get little ones quieted down from their crying, change them and play with them.
We win when unchurched families start attending on a regular basis because Christ has made life change desirable because they find God’s grace, faithfulness, acceptance and love from Christ-minded servants inside the church.
There’s a win in life for you each day..do you see it? No?
Perhaps you need to retrain the way you think about what “the win” looks like.
Monday, April 14, 2008
light during the night
Normally, I like to keep blog postings short. "Fair warning" this one won't be. It could be a 2 part 3 part or even a 4 part but I'm going for the big enchilada on this one. So if you hang in there and read what's been going on in the land of dark storms maybe you will find couragement and perhaps you will find courage also to surrender your wheel, port, bow, stern, ship to the Commander.
I can't believe that it's been close to a month since I've posted. A lot has been going on...lots of dark moments. Ever had those times where clouds seem to hang over top of you. You know in a battle but the worst realization is that it's mostly with yourself. Oh I want to blame the enemy for the darkness, the battle within, the pit... but the reality is the enemy is mostly my undoing or battle of the undoing of self. Yes, that lifelong battle of being renewed, getting rid of the stuff that's hiding deep within that you didn't even know for sure was a problem but there it is one day rising up like a dragon from the depths of the sea and it's ugly dude - and your thinking to yourself - God help me ...Where in the world did that come from?
Well, the good news is that when you cry out to God, he does come to help. It may seem like he's late on the scene but he's not.
I'm going to digress a bit here and refer to last year when I began a journey on a spiritual breakthrough on pride. It was a real struggle at that time but one day while gardening digging out a deep root with a pick axe I experienced a God moment. He showed me that pride is like the deep rooted wild tree I was trying to extract from my garden, if I didn't work way down into the soil with the sharp end of the pick it would just grow back and perhaps would even spread it's roots and cause more trouble.
Well God was faithful in helping me deal with that and through that time I was very interested in disciplines of reading. Dr. Bruce Wilkinson recommends many authors that I was becoming familiar with at the end of his book. So I invested in some reading material...not just a few books but perhaps 10-20+ books. One of those books was Renovation of the heart by Dallas Willard. It's powerful, I'm not far into the book but let me tell you he hammers it. He says the greatest need, the only hope of humanity lies in the fact that as our spiritual dimension has been formed, so it also can be transformed.
Dallas then talks about the revolution of Jesus and how he took a little band of friends and sent them out to "teach all nations" that is to make students (apprentices) to him from all ethnic groups. His objective ..to eventually bring all of human life on earth under the direction of his wisdom, goodness, and power, as part of God's eternal plan for the universe. Sending out his trainees he set in motion a perpetual world revolution; one that is til in process and will continue until God's will is done on earth as it is in heaven.
So this revolution of the human heart or spirit does not proceed by means of the formation of social institutions and laws, outer forms of our existence which might impose a good order of life upon me because of their power. No Jesus is much more about revolutionizing character which proceeds by changing people from the inside through ongoing personal relationship to God in Christ and to one another. So here is where I'm starting to see why there's apparent darkness over me. This relationship is about changing ideas, beliefs, feelings and habits of choice, as well as bodily tendencies and social relations. It's going to penetrate to the deepest layers of my soul.
So as I'm reading this book and I know God is at work through the power of Christ and the Holy Spirit prepping me to look inside me. You see, I don't read fast, sometimes I read so painfully slow that I wonder how in the world will I ever get all of these books read before I die.
So I'm reading "The impotence of "systems" is a main reason why Jesus did not send his students (disciples aka apprentices) out to start governments or even churches as we know them today which always strongly convey some elements of a human system. They were instead, to establish beachheads of his person, word, and power in the midst of a failing and futile humanity. They were to bring the presence of the kingdom and its King into every corner of human life simply by fully living in the kingdom with him."
"Those who received him as their living Lord and constant instructor would be "God's chosen ones, holy and beloved" (Colossians 3:12 nrsv) and would learn how to "be blameless and harmless, children of God, faultless in the midst of a twisted and misguided generation, from within which they shine as lights in the world, lifting up a word of life" (Phillippians 2:15-16 par)
Now all the while I'm chewing on this I'm also reading a leadership book by Kenneth Boa entitled The Perfect Leader, Practicing the leadership traits of God. From page 27 "As we dig, we must ask God to provide us with insight and understanding. Ultimately, only god can open our eyes to see spiritual truth and then enable us to apply that truth to our lives (Ephesians 1:18) As God fills our mind with wisdom, our character will develop so that we will possess the ability to consistenly make right choices--choices that are just, fair, and moral.
As Henry Blackaby and Claude King note in their book "Experiencing God" (have but haven't begun to read)....
"Once you come to believe God, you demonstrate your faith by what you do. Some action is required...You cannot continue life as usual or stay where you are, and go with God at the same time... To go from your ways, thoughts, and purposes to God's will always requires a major adjustment. God ma require adjustments in your circumstances, relationships, thinking, commitments, actions, and beliefs. Once you have made the necessary adjustments you can follow God in obedience. Keep in mind-the God who calls you is also the One who will enable you to do His will.
It's at this point I realize that I need to let go of some silly things I hang on to, not out of pride as much as out of "it's my personal information" I don't want to share it. But God seems to be saying "trust me with this"...release it and trust me. Here's the silliest thing, not all women are plagued by this insecurity as I am. So here I am letting go, being transparent so that I can pursue joy. I'm in a competition at church to lose weight and I've lost 23 lbs. which is great but I'm hanging on to the fact of where I was when I started at 200 rather than rejoicing in the fact that I'm at 177 and on my way down further, getting healthy. God is good is helping me to realize ...something was wrong with the picture.
You may be wondering at this point what is the timeframe of all of this, it's a couple of days since I've picked up the two books and a new one +5 come in the mail. Spiritual Leadership, Principles of Excellence for Every Believer by J. Oswald Sanders. I crack it open and begin light reading of it and land on this quote by Samuel Brengle, a gifted leader of the Salvation Army who outline the road to spiritual authority and leadership:
"It is not won by promotion, but by many prayers and tears. It is attained by confession of sin, and much heart-searching and humbling before God; by self-surrender, a courageious sacrifice of every idol, a bold cuncomplaining embrace of the cross, and by eternally looking unto Jesus crucified. It is not gained by seeking great things for ourselves, but like Paul, by counting those things that are gain to us as loss for Christ. This is a great price, but it must be paid by the leader whose power is recognized and felt in heaven, on earth, and in hell."
I am so thankful that The ReignForest has a team of three women who lift up every volunteer in prayer...that when I call on them and tell them, please pray for me I know that they are remembering me in prayer. This has been going on for the past couple of months during the darkness of the storm. Do I believe that this is all plays a role in the climax of what took place late Sunday night and early Monday morning ...without a doubt. Now I take you to Sunday night as I'm in bed and at a whim decide to listen to Francis Chan preaching on the topic of JOY.
He shares how Cheetos have no grams of Trans Fat. So he looks at the ingredients and says what's really in Cheetos. The label of ingredients doesn't look so great but the package says no grams of Trans Fat...so it kind of leads us to believe that Cheetos are not bad for us. Well he compares Christians to looking like a package of Cheetos...where we are doing the right things, serving, giving, I don't drink, don't swear, don't sleep with anyone anymore...whatever. Meanwhile we have all this stuff inside us that is junk. Our label may say one thing but we are really keeping it inside. Chan says that Jesus says a good Christian is someone who at the core of their being are madly in love with Christ. That we love him with every fiber of our being. Is that true of you? Chan asks. Rejoicing in him. Here's a passage that is a command of God.
From Phillipians 4
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.Along with this sermon I realized that God was getting my attention on my heart condition of rejoicing through darkness
When we are in love we do things appropriately....to others, to situations, to whatever.
Chan challenges us to really love Christ and believe what the bible says on this. Think about it ..if we really believe this, we walk away and never "worry" for the rest of our lives.
WOW, I need to never stop taking my mind off of God, and experiencing His joy... He is the supplier, finisher, author of my faith, provider, supplier of peace. My hope, my salvation, my coming King. I really want to rejoice so much that every one can see His love in me.
There's 3 sermon messages on JOY and they are awesome...check out http://www.francischan.org/ and you can jump to his church Cornerstone to get his sermons.
I can't believe that it's been close to a month since I've posted. A lot has been going on...lots of dark moments. Ever had those times where clouds seem to hang over top of you. You know in a battle but the worst realization is that it's mostly with yourself. Oh I want to blame the enemy for the darkness, the battle within, the pit... but the reality is the enemy is mostly my undoing or battle of the undoing of self. Yes, that lifelong battle of being renewed, getting rid of the stuff that's hiding deep within that you didn't even know for sure was a problem but there it is one day rising up like a dragon from the depths of the sea and it's ugly dude - and your thinking to yourself - God help me ...Where in the world did that come from?
Well, the good news is that when you cry out to God, he does come to help. It may seem like he's late on the scene but he's not.
I'm going to digress a bit here and refer to last year when I began a journey on a spiritual breakthrough on pride. It was a real struggle at that time but one day while gardening digging out a deep root with a pick axe I experienced a God moment. He showed me that pride is like the deep rooted wild tree I was trying to extract from my garden, if I didn't work way down into the soil with the sharp end of the pick it would just grow back and perhaps would even spread it's roots and cause more trouble.
Well God was faithful in helping me deal with that and through that time I was very interested in disciplines of reading. Dr. Bruce Wilkinson recommends many authors that I was becoming familiar with at the end of his book. So I invested in some reading material...not just a few books but perhaps 10-20+ books. One of those books was Renovation of the heart by Dallas Willard. It's powerful, I'm not far into the book but let me tell you he hammers it. He says the greatest need, the only hope of humanity lies in the fact that as our spiritual dimension has been formed, so it also can be transformed.
Dallas then talks about the revolution of Jesus and how he took a little band of friends and sent them out to "teach all nations" that is to make students (apprentices) to him from all ethnic groups. His objective ..to eventually bring all of human life on earth under the direction of his wisdom, goodness, and power, as part of God's eternal plan for the universe. Sending out his trainees he set in motion a perpetual world revolution; one that is til in process and will continue until God's will is done on earth as it is in heaven.
So this revolution of the human heart or spirit does not proceed by means of the formation of social institutions and laws, outer forms of our existence which might impose a good order of life upon me because of their power. No Jesus is much more about revolutionizing character which proceeds by changing people from the inside through ongoing personal relationship to God in Christ and to one another. So here is where I'm starting to see why there's apparent darkness over me. This relationship is about changing ideas, beliefs, feelings and habits of choice, as well as bodily tendencies and social relations. It's going to penetrate to the deepest layers of my soul.
So as I'm reading this book and I know God is at work through the power of Christ and the Holy Spirit prepping me to look inside me. You see, I don't read fast, sometimes I read so painfully slow that I wonder how in the world will I ever get all of these books read before I die.
So I'm reading "The impotence of "systems" is a main reason why Jesus did not send his students (disciples aka apprentices) out to start governments or even churches as we know them today which always strongly convey some elements of a human system. They were instead, to establish beachheads of his person, word, and power in the midst of a failing and futile humanity. They were to bring the presence of the kingdom and its King into every corner of human life simply by fully living in the kingdom with him."
"Those who received him as their living Lord and constant instructor would be "God's chosen ones, holy and beloved" (Colossians 3:12 nrsv) and would learn how to "be blameless and harmless, children of God, faultless in the midst of a twisted and misguided generation, from within which they shine as lights in the world, lifting up a word of life" (Phillippians 2:15-16 par)
Now all the while I'm chewing on this I'm also reading a leadership book by Kenneth Boa entitled The Perfect Leader, Practicing the leadership traits of God. From page 27 "As we dig, we must ask God to provide us with insight and understanding. Ultimately, only god can open our eyes to see spiritual truth and then enable us to apply that truth to our lives (Ephesians 1:18) As God fills our mind with wisdom, our character will develop so that we will possess the ability to consistenly make right choices--choices that are just, fair, and moral.
As Henry Blackaby and Claude King note in their book "Experiencing God" (have but haven't begun to read)....
"Once you come to believe God, you demonstrate your faith by what you do. Some action is required...You cannot continue life as usual or stay where you are, and go with God at the same time... To go from your ways, thoughts, and purposes to God's will always requires a major adjustment. God ma require adjustments in your circumstances, relationships, thinking, commitments, actions, and beliefs. Once you have made the necessary adjustments you can follow God in obedience. Keep in mind-the God who calls you is also the One who will enable you to do His will.
It's at this point I realize that I need to let go of some silly things I hang on to, not out of pride as much as out of "it's my personal information" I don't want to share it. But God seems to be saying "trust me with this"...release it and trust me. Here's the silliest thing, not all women are plagued by this insecurity as I am. So here I am letting go, being transparent so that I can pursue joy. I'm in a competition at church to lose weight and I've lost 23 lbs. which is great but I'm hanging on to the fact of where I was when I started at 200 rather than rejoicing in the fact that I'm at 177 and on my way down further, getting healthy. God is good is helping me to realize ...something was wrong with the picture.
You may be wondering at this point what is the timeframe of all of this, it's a couple of days since I've picked up the two books and a new one +5 come in the mail. Spiritual Leadership, Principles of Excellence for Every Believer by J. Oswald Sanders. I crack it open and begin light reading of it and land on this quote by Samuel Brengle, a gifted leader of the Salvation Army who outline the road to spiritual authority and leadership:
"It is not won by promotion, but by many prayers and tears. It is attained by confession of sin, and much heart-searching and humbling before God; by self-surrender, a courageious sacrifice of every idol, a bold cuncomplaining embrace of the cross, and by eternally looking unto Jesus crucified. It is not gained by seeking great things for ourselves, but like Paul, by counting those things that are gain to us as loss for Christ. This is a great price, but it must be paid by the leader whose power is recognized and felt in heaven, on earth, and in hell."
I am so thankful that The ReignForest has a team of three women who lift up every volunteer in prayer...that when I call on them and tell them, please pray for me I know that they are remembering me in prayer. This has been going on for the past couple of months during the darkness of the storm. Do I believe that this is all plays a role in the climax of what took place late Sunday night and early Monday morning ...without a doubt. Now I take you to Sunday night as I'm in bed and at a whim decide to listen to Francis Chan preaching on the topic of JOY.
He shares how Cheetos have no grams of Trans Fat. So he looks at the ingredients and says what's really in Cheetos. The label of ingredients doesn't look so great but the package says no grams of Trans Fat...so it kind of leads us to believe that Cheetos are not bad for us. Well he compares Christians to looking like a package of Cheetos...where we are doing the right things, serving, giving, I don't drink, don't swear, don't sleep with anyone anymore...whatever. Meanwhile we have all this stuff inside us that is junk. Our label may say one thing but we are really keeping it inside. Chan says that Jesus says a good Christian is someone who at the core of their being are madly in love with Christ. That we love him with every fiber of our being. Is that true of you? Chan asks. Rejoicing in him. Here's a passage that is a command of God.
From Phillipians 4
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.Along with this sermon I realized that God was getting my attention on my heart condition of rejoicing through darkness
When we are in love we do things appropriately....to others, to situations, to whatever.
Chan challenges us to really love Christ and believe what the bible says on this. Think about it ..if we really believe this, we walk away and never "worry" for the rest of our lives.
WOW, I need to never stop taking my mind off of God, and experiencing His joy... He is the supplier, finisher, author of my faith, provider, supplier of peace. My hope, my salvation, my coming King. I really want to rejoice so much that every one can see His love in me.
There's 3 sermon messages on JOY and they are awesome...check out http://www.francischan.org/ and you can jump to his church Cornerstone to get his sermons.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Discipline
My husband, Len, and I have committed to change our lifestyle disciplines. Namely, eating and exercise habits. It's challenging and some days are harder than others. We are in the 4th week of our new program. Fortunately, we are reaping some of the benefits already it brings us together more, we are eating healthier, dropping some weight, and feeliing better. Oh there's aches and pains and sometimes complaining going on...I think that's normal. No one likes change no matter how often you go through it. It's still difficult to embrace.
It's always difficult when you first begin to change disciplines. You seem to be working on everything you do. You realize what a mess you were and see that priorities must change and this is difficult work.
I see how that can relate in our intimate walk with God too. You must set your mind to rethinking how to live your life before God. Old patterns have to be broken and your priorities must change. You find that you must process life through a different filter. You know the outcome is going to be better but you're experiencing some aches and pains in the process.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Your not alone or the only one going through the aches and pains of change. We may be at different levels but we're all in the process.
Don't give up, stay encouraged and press on.
It's always difficult when you first begin to change disciplines. You seem to be working on everything you do. You realize what a mess you were and see that priorities must change and this is difficult work.
I see how that can relate in our intimate walk with God too. You must set your mind to rethinking how to live your life before God. Old patterns have to be broken and your priorities must change. You find that you must process life through a different filter. You know the outcome is going to be better but you're experiencing some aches and pains in the process.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Your not alone or the only one going through the aches and pains of change. We may be at different levels but we're all in the process.
Don't give up, stay encouraged and press on.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Choices
Christmas can be a very depressing time for many people. Thoughts of unhappiness, lack of what they have or even suicide can hang over people like a black plague.
For years I battled depression. Some months were so dark that I could barely count a good day.
What I have found over the years is, there is hope...you can survive depression! Here are some of the ways I have found to turn my dark days around:
Remember goodtimes, smile check this hyperlink out..did you know this: A smile costs nothing, however it brings great richness to the recipient. I SMILE MORE.
Be thankful for family, friends, food, shelter, freedom, health, sight, physical abilities. There's always someone who is in a worse situation or condition than you. I count the ways I am blessed.
Concentrating on the truth . I know that I am loved by God with a never ending love proven through Jesus Christ His Son. I focus on my personal relationship with Christ, God, the Holy Spirit which helps my relationship with others.
I read more of the Word of God so I can filter all the negative thoughts and happenings through God's truth and not through my feelings.
I Choose each day to follow God's way, to trust my life, my well-being, my future to His care. I choose to change the way I think, the way I act, by renewing my mind. This results in actions of love toward myself and others.Am I perfect? No..but I have hope of being made new into His likeness more each day.
2 Cor 3:18 All of us, with no covering on our faces, show the shining-greatness of the Lord as in a mirror. All the time we are being changed to look like Him, with more and more of His shining-greatness. This change is from the Lord Who is the Spirit.
New Life Version (NLV)
Copyright © 1969 by Christian Literature International
Monday, December 10, 2007
Whose got your back ?
Today I got up with such high hopes of making it to work early. That was my early morning goal...until I worke up with the beginning of a headache that turned into a migraine.
Well, it changed the schedule of my day.
Thanks Cindy and Jessica. You were my eyes and my connection to NPCC base. It's great to have co-workers who care about you. Cindy does a lot of behind the scenes work which appears as visuals to convey messages for all of the various environments at NewPointe. She is quite impressive with her creativity. Jessica has grown so much over the past year since she came on staff. What a fantastic addition she has been to the Family Life department and our church staff. Thanks ladies.
Well, it changed the schedule of my day.
Thanks Cindy and Jessica. You were my eyes and my connection to NPCC base. It's great to have co-workers who care about you. Cindy does a lot of behind the scenes work which appears as visuals to convey messages for all of the various environments at NewPointe. She is quite impressive with her creativity. Jessica has grown so much over the past year since she came on staff. What a fantastic addition she has been to the Family Life department and our church staff. Thanks ladies.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Waiting room stuff
Today I went to the hospital to pray with a friend and volunteer in The ReignForest who was going to have her retina reattached for the 2nd time in less than three months. She's an amazing young woman with a heart that loves God, a faith that will enable her to make it through this difficult time. After praying with her I sat with her husband in the surgical waiting room. We had been sitting there an hour when Jason got the call that they were starting the surgery. It's going to be a while. We spoke of politics, religion and family life over the next couple of hours. We discussed how kids today- well most everyone wants service or stuff - right now. They don't want to wait. We need answers now, plans now, toys now, food now, better bodies now and relationships in 10 minutes or less. Genuine relationships take time to nurture and grow. You can get a lot of things by driving up to a window...but relationships - well they're not on take-out menus or at drive-up windows.
I learned alot about Jason that I didn't know. He is a deep thinker, a sensitive yet strong and protective step-dad, a loving new Father, an admiring husband and a follower of Jesus Christ. Sometimes we want a quick relationship with God but God wants so much more. He is a quality creator. Jason is a bright intelligent thinker with strong moral fiber and a heart that recognizes where his blessings come from. Lately, the rainstorm of problems has been coming in sheets and not letting up.
When the doctor came and discussed the outcome of the surgery with Jason, the doctor mentioned that he had to go all out and risk it all to make the best possible situation out of a very difficult one. I was impressed by Jason's questions to the doctor and the confidence he had in this doctor. When Jason asked if there was anything he could do to make the scarring less for Theresa. The doctor amazed us with "You need to pray". Pray that there will be minimal scarring.
In a book I handed to Jason to read you will find 4 certainties that children of God can count on:
1) God will make you well 2) God hurts when you hurt 3) God knows why you're suffering 4) God is in control (pg. 6)
Thanks Jason for the great conversation and allowing me to share time with you "waiting".
Thank you God for the awesome outcome of Theresa's surgery and for reminding us what the waiting and the rain is all about.
I learned alot about Jason that I didn't know. He is a deep thinker, a sensitive yet strong and protective step-dad, a loving new Father, an admiring husband and a follower of Jesus Christ. Sometimes we want a quick relationship with God but God wants so much more. He is a quality creator. Jason is a bright intelligent thinker with strong moral fiber and a heart that recognizes where his blessings come from. Lately, the rainstorm of problems has been coming in sheets and not letting up.
When the doctor came and discussed the outcome of the surgery with Jason, the doctor mentioned that he had to go all out and risk it all to make the best possible situation out of a very difficult one. I was impressed by Jason's questions to the doctor and the confidence he had in this doctor. When Jason asked if there was anything he could do to make the scarring less for Theresa. The doctor amazed us with "You need to pray". Pray that there will be minimal scarring.
In a book I handed to Jason to read you will find 4 certainties that children of God can count on:
1) God will make you well 2) God hurts when you hurt 3) God knows why you're suffering 4) God is in control (pg. 6)
Thanks Jason for the great conversation and allowing me to share time with you "waiting".
Thank you God for the awesome outcome of Theresa's surgery and for reminding us what the waiting and the rain is all about.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Hope in Times of Trouble
I'm reading this little book by the above title...
I'm rememebering my friend Theresa, whose retina has detached for the 2nd time, a new mother, concerned about her husband...
he may be mad at God over his wife's possible loss of sight, she wants him to trust God...
I'm reminded of a friend who is struggling with not feeling right, she needs someone to walk beside her to assure and remind her God's timing is perfect, His plan is perfect...
I think of a volunteer, a gifted teacher whose recent surgery didn't go as planned and now her plans are being rewritten for the holidays...
or thinking about being a good neighbor, taking the time to reach out to make new friends because God's revealed a door of opportunity...
I think of my daughter who is pregnant her hormones all over the place, she's sick most of the time and barely able to work, she even doubts her ability to be a new mom - the concern over her well-being is out of my hands - I place this into hands that are much more capable than mine...
it's great to be reminded that at the end of the day it's all about having hope in the power of God being revealed for His glory...
so live in the moment of worshiping God and find refreshment, encouragement for your soul.
I'm rememebering my friend Theresa, whose retina has detached for the 2nd time, a new mother, concerned about her husband...
he may be mad at God over his wife's possible loss of sight, she wants him to trust God...
I'm reminded of a friend who is struggling with not feeling right, she needs someone to walk beside her to assure and remind her God's timing is perfect, His plan is perfect...
I think of a volunteer, a gifted teacher whose recent surgery didn't go as planned and now her plans are being rewritten for the holidays...
or thinking about being a good neighbor, taking the time to reach out to make new friends because God's revealed a door of opportunity...
I think of my daughter who is pregnant her hormones all over the place, she's sick most of the time and barely able to work, she even doubts her ability to be a new mom - the concern over her well-being is out of my hands - I place this into hands that are much more capable than mine...
it's great to be reminded that at the end of the day it's all about having hope in the power of God being revealed for His glory...
so live in the moment of worshiping God and find refreshment, encouragement for your soul.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
The rewards of serving: Peace and Joy
I'm in a position at church where people want to volunteer to do something in The ReignForest and I get to help them get engaged. Sometimes it's holding babies. Recently I sat down in Origins Cafe' and introduced myself to Penny M. Her husband was busy tearing down (taking down chairs) in the auditorium. I found out after talking with her that they had been coming to NPCC for about a year. I asked her if she was ready to do something like hold babies. She said "Yes, I'm ready to start. I'd think I'd like doing that." I can't possibly express how much this encouraged me. She's serving in the Grasshopper room and has attached herself to one of the little ones who is very precious, a little guy waiting for a heart transplant. Can you believe it ! I believe that she is there at the right place and the right time. This little guy needed someone who wouldn't be afraid to care for him while mom and dad are hearing the message. That's cool, but there's more.
I was so excited that day to have taken the time to meet Penny and her husband and then talking with Penny later I asked her if she was in a Small Group. She said No, that they had not joined one yet. So I invited her to join one that we were joining. Well six weeks later, her and her husband Jerry are now in Small Group with us and they are so cool !! Jerry is just overflowing with the freshness of falling in love with Jesus, he's a new believer and Penny is excited that she has renewed her commitment to Christ. There's something about fresh commitments that makes me re-evaluate whether my Love is FIRST and FOREMOST to God.
I have another story to share with you...normally I like to keep things shorter, but this is really good. I hope you'll read on.
Many people don't realize that The ReignForest is setup in 3 different zones; a nursery zone: ages birth - 24 months, The Reign Zone: two year olds (25 months - 35 months) The Preschool Zone are those children who are 36 months (potty trained) and ready to be promoted the first Sunday in September of the current year. The various stages of preschool children can be lots of fun to engage children in activities. It can be challenging also. Two principles we implement is: we teach them what is relevant to their age and we teach "with the end" in mind.
Here's a story from a mom who is seeing the benefits of The ReignForest:
"Walking to our car after church on Sunday, Cassidy says “You made the world and everything in it! Sam 89:11!!” The smile on her face was just beyond words. I am so excited and blessed that my 2 ½ year old already knows a BIBLE VERSE!! Cassidy sees a tree, “God made trees”. She sees a cloud, “God made clouds”. Whatever is happening in Monkeys and Canopy is working and my child is learning and growing and feeling good about it! A happy 2 year old makes for a happy Mommy!"
Thank you Tammy for sharing this story. You have encouraged me and others.
Come serve in The ReignForest, learn memorization and application...it's so easy a 2-1/2 year old can do it.
Romans 5
Peace and Joy 1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we[a]have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we[b] rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but we[c] also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
6You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
9Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! 10For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 11Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
I was so excited that day to have taken the time to meet Penny and her husband and then talking with Penny later I asked her if she was in a Small Group. She said No, that they had not joined one yet. So I invited her to join one that we were joining. Well six weeks later, her and her husband Jerry are now in Small Group with us and they are so cool !! Jerry is just overflowing with the freshness of falling in love with Jesus, he's a new believer and Penny is excited that she has renewed her commitment to Christ. There's something about fresh commitments that makes me re-evaluate whether my Love is FIRST and FOREMOST to God.
I have another story to share with you...normally I like to keep things shorter, but this is really good. I hope you'll read on.
Many people don't realize that The ReignForest is setup in 3 different zones; a nursery zone: ages birth - 24 months, The Reign Zone: two year olds (25 months - 35 months) The Preschool Zone are those children who are 36 months (potty trained) and ready to be promoted the first Sunday in September of the current year. The various stages of preschool children can be lots of fun to engage children in activities. It can be challenging also. Two principles we implement is: we teach them what is relevant to their age and we teach "with the end" in mind.
Here's a story from a mom who is seeing the benefits of The ReignForest:
"Walking to our car after church on Sunday, Cassidy says “You made the world and everything in it! Sam 89:11!!” The smile on her face was just beyond words. I am so excited and blessed that my 2 ½ year old already knows a BIBLE VERSE!! Cassidy sees a tree, “God made trees”. She sees a cloud, “God made clouds”. Whatever is happening in Monkeys and Canopy is working and my child is learning and growing and feeling good about it! A happy 2 year old makes for a happy Mommy!"
Thank you Tammy for sharing this story. You have encouraged me and others.
Come serve in The ReignForest, learn memorization and application...it's so easy a 2-1/2 year old can do it.
Romans 5
Peace and Joy 1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we[a]have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we[b] rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but we[c] also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
6You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
9Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! 10For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 11Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Hope for Today
My journey involves putting God first daily in my life. Not only spending time in prayer but also renewing my mind through His Holy Word. Ministry requires a constant flowing of the life of Christ and that can only come through reading the Bible, prayer, submission and surrender of those areas in my life that are not pleasing to God. I can't do that if I don't spend time with Him and allow Him to search my heart and mind?
Sometimes it's very painful. I'm a broken person, a sinner.
Sometimes it's very rewarding. I'm a child of the King, Redeemed by Jesus & HIS victory over sin.
I'm reading through the Psalms, studying the Names of God and working on disciplines and spiritual breakthrough by Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. It's taking longer than 30 days to go through this 30 day book. Yep, I need these lessons
Here's my verse of hope and encouragment.
Psalm 30:5
For His anger is but for a moment His favor is for a liftime. Weeping may last for the night but a shout of joy comes in the morning.
God's Word is good. God is GOOD.
Peace be with you.
Sometimes it's very painful. I'm a broken person, a sinner.
Sometimes it's very rewarding. I'm a child of the King, Redeemed by Jesus & HIS victory over sin.
I'm reading through the Psalms, studying the Names of God and working on disciplines and spiritual breakthrough by Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. It's taking longer than 30 days to go through this 30 day book. Yep, I need these lessons
Here's my verse of hope and encouragment.
Psalm 30:5
For His anger is but for a moment His favor is for a liftime. Weeping may last for the night but a shout of joy comes in the morning.
God's Word is good. God is GOOD.
Peace be with you.
Friday, June 8, 2007
The Provision of Bread
In my devotion and prayer journey this week I'm reading and reflecting upon the legacy that Abraham left. He realized the simplest form of success was obedience to God not in somethings-but everything. He didn't need to work hard or count on the bull market for success. His success depended simply upon the blessing of God.
"Without obedience we will never experience the provision God intends for us." a quote by Ann Spangler. Consider these words by a nineteenth-century Scottish preacher, Alexander MacClaren from her book, Praying the Names of God. "If we wish to have our outward needs supplied, our outward weaknesses strengthened, power and energy sufficient for duty, wisdom for perplexity, a share in the Sacrifice which takes away the sins of the world, we receive them all on the condition that we are found in the place where all God's provision is treasured. If a man chooses to sit outside of the baker's shop, he may starve on its threshold...And if we will not ascend to the hill of the Lord and stand in his holy place by simple faith, and by true communion of heart and life. God's amplest provision is nought to us; and we are empty in the midst of affluence."
WOW-starving for the blessing of God...Sounds like small steps of obedience lead to larger ones and to a steady habit of obedience. This leads to deepened faith in God and will allow a person to experience God and his provision.
"Without obedience we will never experience the provision God intends for us." a quote by Ann Spangler. Consider these words by a nineteenth-century Scottish preacher, Alexander MacClaren from her book, Praying the Names of God. "If we wish to have our outward needs supplied, our outward weaknesses strengthened, power and energy sufficient for duty, wisdom for perplexity, a share in the Sacrifice which takes away the sins of the world, we receive them all on the condition that we are found in the place where all God's provision is treasured. If a man chooses to sit outside of the baker's shop, he may starve on its threshold...And if we will not ascend to the hill of the Lord and stand in his holy place by simple faith, and by true communion of heart and life. God's amplest provision is nought to us; and we are empty in the midst of affluence."
WOW-starving for the blessing of God...Sounds like small steps of obedience lead to larger ones and to a steady habit of obedience. This leads to deepened faith in God and will allow a person to experience God and his provision.
I really enjoy bread, let's journey inside the bakery and to receive the provision of The Provider..The Ultimate Baker so we too can leave
a "legacy of faith" like Abraham.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Pizza Night
On Friday night the Beijing, China team and 26 friends got together in the 
kitchen at NewPointe Community Church and made 500 pizzas. Whew, we did it in two hours too. Our team is selling pizzas to help offset the expense of this trip.
This is the 2nd year of the Bring Me Hope camp in China. The orphans there often know nothing else other than an institutional life during their childhood. For many it is the first time they will leave the institution and travel in a car or see outside the institution walls. They will play games, swim, have character studies, learn songs, become friends of the counselors who are spending time with them to show them the love and hope that is in us. Most of our opportunities to share Christ will come only through contact and relationships we develop with translators. Fruit is becoming known from last years trip.
How encouraging it is for last years team to come and give support and for some of the previous Egypt teams too. We had some people who just wanted to come and help to show their support.
Even if you don't make the 6,871 mile trip to Beijing (14 hours in the air) you have joined us as ministry partners in loving those orphans .
It's good to be with friends who are passionate about missions and who committed time to come alongside of those who are going. Thank you to all of you.
kitchen at NewPointe Community Church and made 500 pizzas. Whew, we did it in two hours too. Our team is selling pizzas to help offset the expense of this trip. This is the 2nd year of the Bring Me Hope camp in China. The orphans there often know nothing else other than an institutional life during their childhood. For many it is the first time they will leave the institution and travel in a car or see outside the institution walls. They will play games, swim, have character studies, learn songs, become friends of the counselors who are spending time with them to show them the love and hope that is in us. Most of our opportunities to share Christ will come only through contact and relationships we develop with translators. Fruit is becoming known from last years trip.
How encouraging it is for last years team to come and give support and for some of the previous Egypt teams too. We had some people who just wanted to come and help to show their support.
Even if you don't make the 6,871 mile trip to Beijing (14 hours in the air) you have joined us as ministry partners in loving those orphans .
It's good to be with friends who are passionate about missions and who committed time to come alongside of those who are going. Thank you to all of you.
I hope you know how far and how much time God takes just to show His love for you.
Gracie puts color dots on boxes to distinguish what kind of pizza is in the box.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Monday, April 30, 2007
"The mind ... a fire to be kindled."
We have huddletime each Sunday in The ReignForest before letting families that we serve into our environment. Yesterday I shared a devotional about two men who were walking the Road to Emmaus. (Luke 24)
In Acts 17, Paul went to Mars Hill to declare the truth of the resurrection. The listeners gathered there were not spiritual seekers but spent their days simply wanting to discuss the latest ideas. They had little interest in acting on anything they learned (v.21).
Can too much information be that dangerous? Often an overwhelming amount of ideas can blur together and leave you more confused. There is even risk that information overload rather than helping you can leave you unchanged.
Living life purely on an informational level is dangerous. The historian Plutarch warned several centuries ago of the pitfalls of living on a purely informational level.
He said, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”
As we read the story of two Christ-followers on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24, we find they are grieved at the death of their friend Jesus. Jesus joined them on the road but kept his identity hidden from them. As they walked along the road He began to instruct them on the ancient prophecies of events found throughout the Old Testament. As he prepared to journey on at the end of the day He revealed Himself to them through a blessing of the food and then left them. They realized suddenly that it had been Jesus Christ, their friend, who had been with them. The things He taught were not the latest topics of the day or facts that had no significance but were things that set a fire within them and kindled their hearts and filled them with devotion for Him.
Here's the challenge: today will you trust your hearts to be kindled through His Word...through 5 minutes of prayer time each day of the week ?
Why not start today - "Just Do It" - you'll be glad you did.
A - Adoration
C - Confession
T - Thanksgiving
S - Supplication
In Acts 17, Paul went to Mars Hill to declare the truth of the resurrection. The listeners gathered there were not spiritual seekers but spent their days simply wanting to discuss the latest ideas. They had little interest in acting on anything they learned (v.21).
Can too much information be that dangerous? Often an overwhelming amount of ideas can blur together and leave you more confused. There is even risk that information overload rather than helping you can leave you unchanged.
Living life purely on an informational level is dangerous. The historian Plutarch warned several centuries ago of the pitfalls of living on a purely informational level.
He said, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”
As we read the story of two Christ-followers on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24, we find they are grieved at the death of their friend Jesus. Jesus joined them on the road but kept his identity hidden from them. As they walked along the road He began to instruct them on the ancient prophecies of events found throughout the Old Testament. As he prepared to journey on at the end of the day He revealed Himself to them through a blessing of the food and then left them. They realized suddenly that it had been Jesus Christ, their friend, who had been with them. The things He taught were not the latest topics of the day or facts that had no significance but were things that set a fire within them and kindled their hearts and filled them with devotion for Him.
Here's the challenge: today will you trust your hearts to be kindled through His Word...through 5 minutes of prayer time each day of the week ?
Why not start today - "Just Do It" - you'll be glad you did.
A - Adoration
C - Confession
T - Thanksgiving
S - Supplication
Sunday, April 22, 2007
I Can't - God Can
I love volunteers. They make The ReignForest at NewPointe Community Church an awesome place for preschool children to come and worship on the week-end.
He shared how he had not given his life to God at that point. When it came time to go into surgery he knew that it was serious and he decided to surrender everything to God to help him through this. After surgery he was told it was cancerous and there's still a small part of it left.
He shared how he hasn't worried about anything since his time of surrender, how he's hoping that he will be a light to his family so that they can see God working through his life.
A lovely slender woman stands by his side, his wife Katie and she says she knows that she could lose her husband but she's trusting God.
This past week J was in the hospital for several days with pneumonia. He wanted to be here for the week-end to share his story. I called him while he was in the hospital and he said he was taking the time to rest and look for opportunities where he could share his story of trusting God.
They are young...less than 30 years old. But they get it !
Today in our huddletime in The ReignForest it was good to have Jason & Katie back from last week-end to continue to share their story with us. 
Last year Jason was suffering from headaches and had to have some tests to find out what was going on. Not long after the tests they phoned him and said he'd have to come in for surgery...he had a brain tumor the size of a baseball.
Last year Jason was suffering from headaches and had to have some tests to find out what was going on. Not long after the tests they phoned him and said he'd have to come in for surgery...he had a brain tumor the size of a baseball. He shared how he had not given his life to God at that point. When it came time to go into surgery he knew that it was serious and he decided to surrender everything to God to help him through this. After surgery he was told it was cancerous and there's still a small part of it left.
He shared how he hasn't worried about anything since his time of surrender, how he's hoping that he will be a light to his family so that they can see God working through his life.
A lovely slender woman stands by his side, his wife Katie and she says she knows that she could lose her husband but she's trusting God.
This past week J was in the hospital for several days with pneumonia. He wanted to be here for the week-end to share his story. I called him while he was in the hospital and he said he was taking the time to rest and look for opportunities where he could share his story of trusting God.
They are young...less than 30 years old. But they get it !
They can't handle life on their own but they are calling on a God who can.
This is just one of many recent stories being shared by volunteers in The ReignForest. It's a safe place to serve, a safe place to stretch your faith and a safe place to share your story of life change as a volunteer in our environment.
I openly share that I can't lead these volunteers, but God can.
I openly share that I can't lead these volunteers, but God can.
So.. I surrender it to Him.
Thanks volunteers for challenging me in my journey into a deeper and even more transparent relationship with Jesus Christ.
Thanks volunteers for challenging me in my journey into a deeper and even more transparent relationship with Jesus Christ.
New Friends
Great weather this week-end. We had a bonus too. We had new friends from southern Ohio come for a visit.
We met Tony & Sarajane about six weeks ago while moving some shelves into NewPointe. They were visiting Amish country and stopped by to why the silo had a KidStuf sign on it. I quickly gave them a tour and talked with them for an hour. I found out that they were attendees to GrowUp. They were probably at GrowUp when Len and I were there. They also are intimately involved in KidStuf at their home church. We decided we'd keep in touch by email. During the last six weeks that we've been in touch we invited them to stay with us and visit the church.
We absolutely love the Frocks. They blessed us so much this past week-end. They have so much enthusiasm for ministry and their transparency and love for the Lord is awesome.
How about this..the girls ages 9 and 13 jump in and want to help out in The ReignForest. They helped out during the first service in North Canopy, our large group teaching time. They loved it.
We absolutely love the Frocks. They blessed us so much this past week-end. They have so much enthusiasm for ministry and their transparency and love for the Lord is awesome.
How about this..the girls ages 9 and 13 jump in and want to help out in The ReignForest. They helped out during the first service in North Canopy, our large group teaching time. They loved it.
Did I mention that I met the girls for the first time yesterday. They were so excited to learn the songs and signing last night. It's really cool to see these girls exhibiting excitement about serving just like their parents.
God is good at bringing families together...He's good all the time!
Friday, April 13, 2007
Part 2 The reality of pouring into my cup
Are there times when you just can't believe what has happened to you? Well that's what it's been like for me this entire week.
One of those moments on Thursday, this new friend, Leeann and I are talking and even though we had known each other for only a couple of hours, it felt like she'd been my friend for life. It was during a pretty intense part of sharing some life stories that I realized that this person was pouring into me. I not only wanted her but expressed to her that I needed her in my life. Because at that moment she was giving me something like a very personal message from God. At first, I was stunned but then it was clear to me. This woman is a "prayer prophet". I told her that and she asked me "What's that? What do you mean." I answered her something like I honestly don't know other than that was the term that I heard in my head.
The message she was delivering wasn't something new that I was hearing for the first time but it sure felt like it. There I sat listening and drinking in every word she was saying. At one point I just broke down and cried. I think I was in awe of the Spirit of God moving in the room between the two of us.
Here's the reality of those moments when God is pouring into your life (your cup) from someone else. You need to take responsibility and listen to what they are saying. Ponder it, research it, look it up or talk about it with someone else..say like with God.
Bottom line here's what she shared: "take the following verse literally, do it, don't miss it any day, make it the biggest priority of your life."
Matthew 6:6 (NIV)
6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
You see I want a deeper life of intimacy with God, one that rocks my world. So someday when I stand before Him and give an account of my life I will hear Him say "Well done thy good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21)
One of those moments on Thursday, this new friend, Leeann and I are talking and even though we had known each other for only a couple of hours, it felt like she'd been my friend for life. It was during a pretty intense part of sharing some life stories that I realized that this person was pouring into me. I not only wanted her but expressed to her that I needed her in my life. Because at that moment she was giving me something like a very personal message from God. At first, I was stunned but then it was clear to me. This woman is a "prayer prophet". I told her that and she asked me "What's that? What do you mean." I answered her something like I honestly don't know other than that was the term that I heard in my head.
The message she was delivering wasn't something new that I was hearing for the first time but it sure felt like it. There I sat listening and drinking in every word she was saying. At one point I just broke down and cried. I think I was in awe of the Spirit of God moving in the room between the two of us.
Here's the reality of those moments when God is pouring into your life (your cup) from someone else. You need to take responsibility and listen to what they are saying. Ponder it, research it, look it up or talk about it with someone else..say like with God.
Bottom line here's what she shared: "take the following verse literally, do it, don't miss it any day, make it the biggest priority of your life."
Matthew 6:6 (NIV)
6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
You see I want a deeper life of intimacy with God, one that rocks my world. So someday when I stand before Him and give an account of my life I will hear Him say "Well done thy good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21)
Monday, April 9, 2007
Reflection of God that is worth the wait
Theresa Clay and Gwen Hamsher, volunteers overseeing parts of The ReignForest, shared recently in our Sunday morning huddles. What they shared, provided me with food for reflection. Today I pondered my journey of waiting on God as I searched scripture verses on the topic.
Learn to wait; you show God your seeking Him.
Psalm 38:15 I wait for you, O LORD; you will answer, O Lord my God.
God waited.
1 Peter 3:20 who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water,
An action follows a wait.
Isaiah 64:4 Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.
Here's a promise of His double action, rising and blessing.
Isaiah 30:18 Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
Sometimes it takes “waiting” to understand the plan, to perfect the plan in you or for your acceptance of His plan. You’ll never finish learning about how big HE is, so get ready, get set, wait for Him.. ..it’ll be worth it.
God is worth the wait.
Learn to wait; you show God your seeking Him.
Psalm 38:15 I wait for you, O LORD; you will answer, O Lord my God.
God waited.
1 Peter 3:20 who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water,
An action follows a wait.
Isaiah 64:4 Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.
Here's a promise of His double action, rising and blessing.
Isaiah 30:18 Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
Sometimes it takes “waiting” to understand the plan, to perfect the plan in you or for your acceptance of His plan. You’ll never finish learning about how big HE is, so get ready, get set, wait for Him.. ..it’ll be worth it.
God is worth the wait.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Stirring Love
My dear friends from Egypt wrote me recently sharing their joy of this past week-end. Palm Sunday is the day we remember Jesus' "triumphal entry" into Jerusalem, exactly one week before His resurrection (Matthew 21:1-11). Below, I insert a portion of that letter from my friends, who inspire me with a stirring letter of celebration of love for Christ, for me, my family and the recent Egypt team. I look forward to the day we will be joined together in heaven to have an eternal celebration time. Are you stirred by HIS love for you today?
..."we missed you today we were at the church the morning meeting the Lord
blessed us we remembered the crowds that went ahead of him shouting
Hosanna to the son of David blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord
Hosanna in the highest then the whole city was stirred and asked Who is this?
He came for our sins to crucify to forgive us to give us the everlasing life and to
gather us together with Him for ever and one of His coming results we knew you
as our dearest sister in Him"
blessed us we remembered the crowds that went ahead of him shouting
Hosanna to the son of David blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord
Hosanna in the highest then the whole city was stirred and asked Who is this?
He came for our sins to crucify to forgive us to give us the everlasing life and to
gather us together with Him for ever and one of His coming results we knew you
as our dearest sister in Him"
dear Faye we love you as Jesus loved us do you feel that? we feel that deeply
our greetings to you and your family and we send our greetings through you
to all our brothers and sisters of our lovely team each one by his name
God bless you till we meet again Ramzy&Esther love for ever
our greetings to you and your family and we send our greetings through you
to all our brothers and sisters of our lovely team each one by his name
God bless you till we meet again Ramzy&Esther love for ever
Yes, I do feel your love. Thank you for your love and encouragement Ramzy & Ester.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Invest & Invite-so easy a 2 year old can do it
This story was shared by Group Coordinator, Tammy Loos, this past Sunday as she led the huddle in The ReignForest. Thanks Tammy for your sensitivity to your surroundings and the Holy Spirit's leading. Thanks for your leadership in The ReignForest, for being an awesome mother, and living the example of a follower of Christ.
My daughter, Cassidy, was singing “Jesus Loves Me” while we were at Walmart. Two employees walked by, one woman was crying. The crying woman started to follow us down an aisle. Cassidy was still singing. The woman came up to Cassidy and asked “What makes you so happy?” Cassidy smiles really big and opens her arms and says loud and clear “Jesus!!” The woman fell to the floor. I am really scared now. The woman opens her heart and tells me: her husband left her because he doesn’t want kids and she is 4 months pregnant, he took all of their money & car, canceled her insurance, she is alone and doesn’t feel good & she wanted a better life for her baby than she had. I was at a loss for words so I just told her that she is not alone & that Jesus loves her and that we attend NewPointe Community Church where everyone is welcome and loved. She asked what I did with my baby while I was in church. I told her that we had a wonderful program for all ages of children & that Cassidy went to her room in The ReignForest and she loves it. Cassidy starts singing “Jesus Loves Me” again. The woman said she didn’t grow up in church so she didn’t think she would fit in. I told her that I didn’t grow up in church either. NewPointe was for everyone, wherever they were in their life journey. We care about a relationship with God, not what people know or don’t know or how they dress. The woman said she might try...I told her that we would pray for her. Cassidy heard the word pray and put her little hands together and said “I pray!”. I held the woman’s hand and said a simple and short prayer as if Cassidy was praying. When I was done Cassidy says a heartfelt “Amen!” The woman thanked me, told me she felt better and that she just might go to church with her neighbors she knew they go to NewPointe Communty Church.
Last week when Faye had asked me to lead huddle time I said yes & that I had a wonderful short devotion about God’s Joy. Throughout the week I prayed about what I would say and felt that I was prepared. Sunday morning, it seemed like everything was against me getting to church and I left later than I wanted. A mile down the road I realized that I forgot my name tag. I turned around & went back home, frustrated at yet another obstacle! I grabbed my name tag and underneath it was an email with a story that I had printed out earlier. I grabbed that also, not knowing why. All the way to church, I couldn’t get that email story out of my mind. As we walked into church, I saw the crying woman from Walmart entering with an older couple. I knew I was supposed to tell the story on my email and Cassidy’s story. I didn’t have a clue what I was going to say. I just knew that I wanted everyone to know the power our small children have and the influence that we have on them in the ReignForest.
The Wooden Bowl
A frail old man went to live with his son and daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson. The old man’s hands trembled, his step faltered, his eyesight was blurred.
The family ate together at the table. But the elderly man’s shaky hands and bad eyesight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon, he spilled his milk. The son and daughter-in-law became very irritated with the mess. “We must do something with Grandfather!”, said the son. “I’ve had enough of spilled food and noisy eating!” So the son and daughter-in –law set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.
Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his son gave him his food in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather’s direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat all alone. The only words the couple had for him were sharp and unloving. The four-year-old watched in silence.
One evening, the father noticed the four-year-old playing with some scraps of wood. He asked the child “What are you making?” Sweetly, the small boy responded, “Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.” The child smiled and went back to his work.
The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. The tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though n word was spoken, both knew what must be done. That evening, the husband took Grandfather’s hand and gently led him back to the family table.
For the remainder of his days, he ate every meal with his family. And for some reason, the son and daughter-in-law didn’t seem to care any longer when a fork was dropped or the milk spilled.
My daughter, Cassidy, was singing “Jesus Loves Me” while we were at Walmart. Two employees walked by, one woman was crying. The crying woman started to follow us down an aisle. Cassidy was still singing. The woman came up to Cassidy and asked “What makes you so happy?” Cassidy smiles really big and opens her arms and says loud and clear “Jesus!!” The woman fell to the floor. I am really scared now. The woman opens her heart and tells me: her husband left her because he doesn’t want kids and she is 4 months pregnant, he took all of their money & car, canceled her insurance, she is alone and doesn’t feel good & she wanted a better life for her baby than she had. I was at a loss for words so I just told her that she is not alone & that Jesus loves her and that we attend NewPointe Community Church where everyone is welcome and loved. She asked what I did with my baby while I was in church. I told her that we had a wonderful program for all ages of children & that Cassidy went to her room in The ReignForest and she loves it. Cassidy starts singing “Jesus Loves Me” again. The woman said she didn’t grow up in church so she didn’t think she would fit in. I told her that I didn’t grow up in church either. NewPointe was for everyone, wherever they were in their life journey. We care about a relationship with God, not what people know or don’t know or how they dress. The woman said she might try...I told her that we would pray for her. Cassidy heard the word pray and put her little hands together and said “I pray!”. I held the woman’s hand and said a simple and short prayer as if Cassidy was praying. When I was done Cassidy says a heartfelt “Amen!” The woman thanked me, told me she felt better and that she just might go to church with her neighbors she knew they go to NewPointe Communty Church.
Last week when Faye had asked me to lead huddle time I said yes & that I had a wonderful short devotion about God’s Joy. Throughout the week I prayed about what I would say and felt that I was prepared. Sunday morning, it seemed like everything was against me getting to church and I left later than I wanted. A mile down the road I realized that I forgot my name tag. I turned around & went back home, frustrated at yet another obstacle! I grabbed my name tag and underneath it was an email with a story that I had printed out earlier. I grabbed that also, not knowing why. All the way to church, I couldn’t get that email story out of my mind. As we walked into church, I saw the crying woman from Walmart entering with an older couple. I knew I was supposed to tell the story on my email and Cassidy’s story. I didn’t have a clue what I was going to say. I just knew that I wanted everyone to know the power our small children have and the influence that we have on them in the ReignForest.
The Wooden Bowl
A frail old man went to live with his son and daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson. The old man’s hands trembled, his step faltered, his eyesight was blurred.
The family ate together at the table. But the elderly man’s shaky hands and bad eyesight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon, he spilled his milk. The son and daughter-in-law became very irritated with the mess. “We must do something with Grandfather!”, said the son. “I’ve had enough of spilled food and noisy eating!” So the son and daughter-in –law set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner.
Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his son gave him his food in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather’s direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat all alone. The only words the couple had for him were sharp and unloving. The four-year-old watched in silence.
One evening, the father noticed the four-year-old playing with some scraps of wood. He asked the child “What are you making?” Sweetly, the small boy responded, “Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up.” The child smiled and went back to his work.
The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. The tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though n word was spoken, both knew what must be done. That evening, the husband took Grandfather’s hand and gently led him back to the family table.
For the remainder of his days, he ate every meal with his family. And for some reason, the son and daughter-in-law didn’t seem to care any longer when a fork was dropped or the milk spilled.
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