I clearly remember the day I got married (both times). They were beautiful, fit for a princess. I was young, naive, and blind (both times). I see how my mind is being transformed from the "fairy tale" idea of marriage, to the pure essence of who I was created to be in Christ.
Recently, I had opportunity to watch the motion picture "One Night with the King", the story of Hadassah. I've read and studied this book in the Bible, but seeing it on the big screen, even if Hollywood style, takes it to another level. Watching the scenes unfold, witnessing the seize-the-day opportunity that ONE WOMAN took. The courage and prayers in Esther's life changed history for her people, as well as people for generations to come.
I want to encourage you with this question to ponder...
What difference will you allow your courage and prayers to make??
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Monday, October 09, 2006
Preparations
WOW!! Another amazing weekend at Teen Challenge, oh how I love being with my husband. At church yesterday, Jay again had opportunity to share his testimony. It was powerful! I am so excited about what the Lord has done, is doing, and will continue to do, in our lives. Day by day, step by step, He is guiding us, teaching us, encouraging us, and preparing us.
As I was at lunch today, I was listening to some awesome teaching by Joyce Meyer. She said something that stirred the very depths of my heart,
"God has to get me prepared for the place he's already prepared for me!"
I agree wholeheartedly with that statement and would covet your prayers in this area as I am believing this for my family. God Bless It!!!
As I was at lunch today, I was listening to some awesome teaching by Joyce Meyer. She said something that stirred the very depths of my heart,
"God has to get me prepared for the place he's already prepared for me!"
I agree wholeheartedly with that statement and would covet your prayers in this area as I am believing this for my family. God Bless It!!!
Monday, October 02, 2006
A Personal Tribute to Human Life
The Decision
In the 1970s, abortion was an easily accessible option for young, single, unwed mothers. At 1:23 p.m., July 26, 1973, a scared, vulnerable, 18-year old catholic girl made a decision. Despite the stigma of her family, and the opinion of her peers, she elected to place the child she was carrying up for adoption. This child was not unwanted. This child was deeply loved. So deeply loved that this mother desired more for this child than she was able to give. Ironically enough though, she did give. By her decision, she gave this child life. She allowed this child a future and a hope.
This mother could have easily opted for abortion. No one would have ever had to know. No one but her own conscience and her heavenly Father. Thankfully, this mother chose life. She chose to give the very essence of a life that had shared each breath and every movement with her the past nine months. No matter how hard the decision, this mother gave life over death, joy over destruction, destiny over fatality.
_______________________________________________
The Plan
Across the state line a mother and father waited. They desperately wanted a child, as they had been registered on an adoption waiting list for over 7 years. One evening, unexpectedly, their telephone rang. It was their caseworker and she informed them she had great news. She then reported that on July 26 at 1:23 p.m., a woman had given birth to a baby who was ready to be placed for adoption. So, with great excitement, the caseworker informed this couple they had a baby waiting.
With longing eyes, hopeful hearts and grateful smiles these first time parents made their way to the adoption agency. Despite the fact that they had never before seen this child, never felt the softness of this child's skin or held this child's tiny hand, love began to birth from their hearts. This mother always said that even though this child did not grow inside her womb, this child grew in her heart. These first time parents accepted their indescribable gift and raised this child with incredible amounts of love and joy.
_______________________________________________
The Life
The courses of these mothers lives from the 26th of July in 1973 were totally different, yet very similar. Both mothers gave life, one by delivery, one by acceptance. Both mothers gave character, one by heredity, one by instruction. Both mothers gave hope, one by birth, one by guidance. No one can fathom the gratitude I personally have toward these two women. You see, I AM THE CHILD! I want everyone to know how thankful I am not to be a statistic, to have had a chance at life and for the opportunities I have had. Words cannot express my gratitude for two women who believed in me from inception as a human being and for my heavenly Father who had it all planned out from the beginning.
In the 1970s, abortion was an easily accessible option for young, single, unwed mothers. At 1:23 p.m., July 26, 1973, a scared, vulnerable, 18-year old catholic girl made a decision. Despite the stigma of her family, and the opinion of her peers, she elected to place the child she was carrying up for adoption. This child was not unwanted. This child was deeply loved. So deeply loved that this mother desired more for this child than she was able to give. Ironically enough though, she did give. By her decision, she gave this child life. She allowed this child a future and a hope.
This mother could have easily opted for abortion. No one would have ever had to know. No one but her own conscience and her heavenly Father. Thankfully, this mother chose life. She chose to give the very essence of a life that had shared each breath and every movement with her the past nine months. No matter how hard the decision, this mother gave life over death, joy over destruction, destiny over fatality.
_______________________________________________
The Plan
Across the state line a mother and father waited. They desperately wanted a child, as they had been registered on an adoption waiting list for over 7 years. One evening, unexpectedly, their telephone rang. It was their caseworker and she informed them she had great news. She then reported that on July 26 at 1:23 p.m., a woman had given birth to a baby who was ready to be placed for adoption. So, with great excitement, the caseworker informed this couple they had a baby waiting.
With longing eyes, hopeful hearts and grateful smiles these first time parents made their way to the adoption agency. Despite the fact that they had never before seen this child, never felt the softness of this child's skin or held this child's tiny hand, love began to birth from their hearts. This mother always said that even though this child did not grow inside her womb, this child grew in her heart. These first time parents accepted their indescribable gift and raised this child with incredible amounts of love and joy.
_______________________________________________
The Life
The courses of these mothers lives from the 26th of July in 1973 were totally different, yet very similar. Both mothers gave life, one by delivery, one by acceptance. Both mothers gave character, one by heredity, one by instruction. Both mothers gave hope, one by birth, one by guidance. No one can fathom the gratitude I personally have toward these two women. You see, I AM THE CHILD! I want everyone to know how thankful I am not to be a statistic, to have had a chance at life and for the opportunities I have had. Words cannot express my gratitude for two women who believed in me from inception as a human being and for my heavenly Father who had it all planned out from the beginning.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
"Where is SHE?"
My family and I had a wonderful visit with my husband over the weekend at Teen Challenge. My mother traveled along with us for this trip, and honestly, it was unbelievable!! God never ceases to amaze me. Since this is my blog...I'll take the liberty to share a little...
On Sunday morning, as we walked into the church we were visiting that day, my husband was asked to share his testimony during the Sunday School hour. First we went to the church service, and that it itself was tailor made for me, and us. Then we were greeted with coffee and donuts, which by the way immediately put me at ease. Isn't it interesting what a little caffeine and sugar does for your nerves??
My husband then escorted me to the head table and we intently listened as Teen Challenge presented a short video and shared about the program. It was then my husband was called upon and he stood with an authority I had not seen before as he positioned himself in front of the podium, microphone in hand.
What I saw and heard next brought tears to my eyes then, as well as now. I witnessed a humble, transparent man, share about circumstances in his life, choices he made, and consequences he faced that eventually brought him to "this place". I heard TRUTH about the enemy's lies and God's everlasting plan for each of us. I listened attentively as my husband shared of the reconciliation occurring between he and God, as well as the reconciliation occurring in our family.
He shared that through the Lord, generational curses are stopped, and from this point on, Generational Blessings will be handed down through our family. He went on to introduce our boys who had been listening intently to every word spoken from their father. He then introduced my mother, the prayer warrior, and publicly thanked her for all the hours spent on her knees.
He continued on with his story and shared about how he and his wife divorced, but are now reconciled and remarried. It was at that time I heard the question from the crowd..."Where is SHE?"
Now, I have been recognized many times throughout the course of my life. I've received numerous awards and countless accomplishments, but this one holds no comparison. As I stood from the table that day, I stood with HONOR...I was the wife he was sharing about. I was the woman that God choose for a second chance with this man. As I humbly stood from my seat, applause began. I glanced around the room and tears began to fill my eyes. I saw people who had never met me, never knew the valleys I'd walked through, never heard my personal struggles, but nonetheless, they were applauding...they knew. I caught a glimpse of my boys, applauding, then on to my mother, applauding. As tears began to overflow from my eyes and roll down my cheeks, I glanced toward my husband, standing proudly IN MY HONOR...applauding!! All the awards, all the certificates, all the accomplishments in the world could never compare to being publicly honored by your husband. That in itself is a miracle!!
As my husband concluded his testimony that day, the Pastor asked me to come forward and the entire church prayed for us. It was indeed a moment I will never forget! God Bless It!!!
On Sunday morning, as we walked into the church we were visiting that day, my husband was asked to share his testimony during the Sunday School hour. First we went to the church service, and that it itself was tailor made for me, and us. Then we were greeted with coffee and donuts, which by the way immediately put me at ease. Isn't it interesting what a little caffeine and sugar does for your nerves??
My husband then escorted me to the head table and we intently listened as Teen Challenge presented a short video and shared about the program. It was then my husband was called upon and he stood with an authority I had not seen before as he positioned himself in front of the podium, microphone in hand.
What I saw and heard next brought tears to my eyes then, as well as now. I witnessed a humble, transparent man, share about circumstances in his life, choices he made, and consequences he faced that eventually brought him to "this place". I heard TRUTH about the enemy's lies and God's everlasting plan for each of us. I listened attentively as my husband shared of the reconciliation occurring between he and God, as well as the reconciliation occurring in our family.
He shared that through the Lord, generational curses are stopped, and from this point on, Generational Blessings will be handed down through our family. He went on to introduce our boys who had been listening intently to every word spoken from their father. He then introduced my mother, the prayer warrior, and publicly thanked her for all the hours spent on her knees.
He continued on with his story and shared about how he and his wife divorced, but are now reconciled and remarried. It was at that time I heard the question from the crowd..."Where is SHE?"
Now, I have been recognized many times throughout the course of my life. I've received numerous awards and countless accomplishments, but this one holds no comparison. As I stood from the table that day, I stood with HONOR...I was the wife he was sharing about. I was the woman that God choose for a second chance with this man. As I humbly stood from my seat, applause began. I glanced around the room and tears began to fill my eyes. I saw people who had never met me, never knew the valleys I'd walked through, never heard my personal struggles, but nonetheless, they were applauding...they knew. I caught a glimpse of my boys, applauding, then on to my mother, applauding. As tears began to overflow from my eyes and roll down my cheeks, I glanced toward my husband, standing proudly IN MY HONOR...applauding!! All the awards, all the certificates, all the accomplishments in the world could never compare to being publicly honored by your husband. That in itself is a miracle!!
As my husband concluded his testimony that day, the Pastor asked me to come forward and the entire church prayed for us. It was indeed a moment I will never forget! God Bless It!!!
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Back to School
Today's the day!!! Today, our oldest son started high school, and our youngest son, middle school. I shared devotions with them this morning. I felt their excitement; I understood their concerns. My babies are embarking on the most exciting years of their lives.
Our oldest son has been practicing football for the past 2 months. He's living out his lifelong (14-year's now) dream!!! He played a practice game last week and I noted other players on the sidelines chatting and making numerous trips to the water cooler, but NOT him. He was intently scrutinizing every play, watching each move of the football. Yesterday though, his plans for the next few weeks changed.
He was riding his bike around our neighborhood, enjoying the last bit of summer vacation, when he took a detour. That detour consisted of a nose dive as he flipped over the handlebars of his bicycle, and "caught" himself with both arms. We ended up in the ER, once again, and the recurring news, "Yes, it's broken!"
Today, I am feeling an assortment of emotions. I asked one of my co-workers if this was a parental response to children embarking into the world of high school/middle school, OR, if it was because, into that journey of adulthood, one child is entering a little "handicapped". His response was, "Jody, just how many times have you had to deal with broken arms", my answer was unfortunately, "6 times", he said, "therefore, I'm sure you're feeling a normal parent's response because you should be a pro at dealing with broken arms!!" True enough, point taken. Thanks for the encouragement!!
Our oldest son has been practicing football for the past 2 months. He's living out his lifelong (14-year's now) dream!!! He played a practice game last week and I noted other players on the sidelines chatting and making numerous trips to the water cooler, but NOT him. He was intently scrutinizing every play, watching each move of the football. Yesterday though, his plans for the next few weeks changed.
He was riding his bike around our neighborhood, enjoying the last bit of summer vacation, when he took a detour. That detour consisted of a nose dive as he flipped over the handlebars of his bicycle, and "caught" himself with both arms. We ended up in the ER, once again, and the recurring news, "Yes, it's broken!"
Today, I am feeling an assortment of emotions. I asked one of my co-workers if this was a parental response to children embarking into the world of high school/middle school, OR, if it was because, into that journey of adulthood, one child is entering a little "handicapped". His response was, "Jody, just how many times have you had to deal with broken arms", my answer was unfortunately, "6 times", he said, "therefore, I'm sure you're feeling a normal parent's response because you should be a pro at dealing with broken arms!!" True enough, point taken. Thanks for the encouragement!!
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
S-T-R-E-T-C-H
I apologize that it's been awhile since I've updated. So much has been going on in my life!!! I sense our family is in the middle of birthpains. It is absolutely BEAUTIFUL!! God is doing exceedingly more than I have ever asked or imagined!! I feel as if I am being called to do things that are out of my comfort zone....but the cool part is "I'm willing to do them!" God is calling me to S - T - R - E - T - C - H!! The following scripture comes to mind. It's from The Message...
Isaiah 54
Spread Out! Think Big!
1-6 "Sing, barren woman, who has never had a baby.
Fill the air with song, you who've never experienced childbirth!
You're ending up with far more children
than all those childbearing women." God says so!
"Clear lots of ground for your tents!
Make your tents large. Spread out! Think big!
Use plenty of rope, drive the tent pegs deep.
You're going to need lots of elbow room
for your growing family.
You're going to take over whole nations;
you're going to resettle abandoned cities.
Don't be afraid—you're not going to be embarrassed.
Don't hold back—you're not going to come up short.
You'll forget all about the humiliations of your youth,
and the indignities of being a widow will fade from memory.
For your Maker is your bridegroom,
his name, God-of-the-Angel-Armies!
Your Redeemer is The Holy of Israel,
known as God of the whole earth.
You were like an abandoned wife, devastated with grief,
and God welcomed you back,
Like a woman married young
and then left," says your God.
Isaiah 54
Spread Out! Think Big!
1-6 "Sing, barren woman, who has never had a baby.
Fill the air with song, you who've never experienced childbirth!
You're ending up with far more children
than all those childbearing women." God says so!
"Clear lots of ground for your tents!
Make your tents large. Spread out! Think big!
Use plenty of rope, drive the tent pegs deep.
You're going to need lots of elbow room
for your growing family.
You're going to take over whole nations;
you're going to resettle abandoned cities.
Don't be afraid—you're not going to be embarrassed.
Don't hold back—you're not going to come up short.
You'll forget all about the humiliations of your youth,
and the indignities of being a widow will fade from memory.
For your Maker is your bridegroom,
his name, God-of-the-Angel-Armies!
Your Redeemer is The Holy of Israel,
known as God of the whole earth.
You were like an abandoned wife, devastated with grief,
and God welcomed you back,
Like a woman married young
and then left," says your God.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Barely Escaped Death
A Miracle happened in my home today!!
About 4 months ago, my oldest son began complaining of back pain. We had been to the Doctor numerous times for this reason and one day, I noticed his mattress was in HORRIBLE shape!! I went to a local furniture store and purchased new beds for both of my boys.
About 2 months ago, I noticed one of the beds was starting to sag in the center. I called the furniture store where I purchased the beds. Today, the gentleman came from the furniture store to look at the problem. He took one good look at it, got down on his hands and knees, and exclaimed, "here's the problem". Granted, I had threatened my boy to have his room clean for this man, but I NEVER suspected that he would find something under his bed. The furniture man and I proceeded to lift off the mattress and stand the box springs upright. It was then that I saw the problem. This bed was broken!! This bed that was three months old, this bed that I bought for my boy and I cried because it was so expensive, this bed that I made him promise he would not jump in, this bed that I am still working to pay it off, this bed...is broken!!
It was at that very moment I asked the furniture store man to leave. I told him that there was about to be a miracle happen in my home. He looked at me...puzzled. I then told him that my boys (who were cowering in the hall by the way) were about to escape death!!
He kind of chuckled, but then he noticed "the look" in my eyes and he listened as I began to share my story. I told him that about 4 weeks ago, my boys used trash bags and a water hose to create "the coolest" water slide my front yard has ever known. Not only did they have a blast, but so did all the neighborhood kids. Do you know what numerous children sliding down your hill on trash bags does to your grass?? I then continued to share how the very day after the "water park" incident, my boys then decided to play "catch" in my living room with a quart of RED paint. Of course, the lid came off and of course, the RED paint spilt all over the carpet. The furniture store man then realized I was speaking truth, indeed a Miracle WAS about to happen in my house today!! He promptly excused himself and left, with me following short behind.
On my drive back to work, the Lord brought many thoughts to my mind. Most, I won't share with you, but this one was powerful. It's from a book I'm reading called Captivating and it's what I long for my life's mission to be. It is this, "Beauty offers mercy." The paragraph reads, "Beauty offers mercy. Boys-becoming-men are hard for a woman to understand. They act as if they don't need us anymore. Sometimes they act rudely in their emerging strength. I want to "come down" on him. But that is not what he needs from me. He needs mercy. A kind word, a smile. Grace at the end of the day. He softens toward me, and our relationship is recovered. A woman who is full of tender mercy and soft vulnerability is a powerful, lovely woman."
Lord, I want that for my life. I know I don't deserve it, I know that I've blown it, but I long for YOUR mercy Lord. How grateful I am when I realize that truly it's me who has "escaped death" from my own sin. Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross for me!! Lord, please forgive me for my shortcomings...Yes, there was indeed a miracle in our house today!!!
About 4 months ago, my oldest son began complaining of back pain. We had been to the Doctor numerous times for this reason and one day, I noticed his mattress was in HORRIBLE shape!! I went to a local furniture store and purchased new beds for both of my boys.
About 2 months ago, I noticed one of the beds was starting to sag in the center. I called the furniture store where I purchased the beds. Today, the gentleman came from the furniture store to look at the problem. He took one good look at it, got down on his hands and knees, and exclaimed, "here's the problem". Granted, I had threatened my boy to have his room clean for this man, but I NEVER suspected that he would find something under his bed. The furniture man and I proceeded to lift off the mattress and stand the box springs upright. It was then that I saw the problem. This bed was broken!! This bed that was three months old, this bed that I bought for my boy and I cried because it was so expensive, this bed that I made him promise he would not jump in, this bed that I am still working to pay it off, this bed...is broken!!
It was at that very moment I asked the furniture store man to leave. I told him that there was about to be a miracle happen in my home. He looked at me...puzzled. I then told him that my boys (who were cowering in the hall by the way) were about to escape death!!
He kind of chuckled, but then he noticed "the look" in my eyes and he listened as I began to share my story. I told him that about 4 weeks ago, my boys used trash bags and a water hose to create "the coolest" water slide my front yard has ever known. Not only did they have a blast, but so did all the neighborhood kids. Do you know what numerous children sliding down your hill on trash bags does to your grass?? I then continued to share how the very day after the "water park" incident, my boys then decided to play "catch" in my living room with a quart of RED paint. Of course, the lid came off and of course, the RED paint spilt all over the carpet. The furniture store man then realized I was speaking truth, indeed a Miracle WAS about to happen in my house today!! He promptly excused himself and left, with me following short behind.
On my drive back to work, the Lord brought many thoughts to my mind. Most, I won't share with you, but this one was powerful. It's from a book I'm reading called Captivating and it's what I long for my life's mission to be. It is this, "Beauty offers mercy." The paragraph reads, "Beauty offers mercy. Boys-becoming-men are hard for a woman to understand. They act as if they don't need us anymore. Sometimes they act rudely in their emerging strength. I want to "come down" on him. But that is not what he needs from me. He needs mercy. A kind word, a smile. Grace at the end of the day. He softens toward me, and our relationship is recovered. A woman who is full of tender mercy and soft vulnerability is a powerful, lovely woman."
Lord, I want that for my life. I know I don't deserve it, I know that I've blown it, but I long for YOUR mercy Lord. How grateful I am when I realize that truly it's me who has "escaped death" from my own sin. Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross for me!! Lord, please forgive me for my shortcomings...Yes, there was indeed a miracle in our house today!!!
Friday, August 04, 2006
Chaos!
I'd like to start this post by repeating something I recently read in a book, "Any idiot can handle a crisis, it's the day to day that I struggle with!!". AMEN!!
My washing machine has been on it's last leg for awhile now. Being the miserly shopper that I am, I have tried to limp it along in order to put off spending money. Yesterday, I finally came to terms that in the course of this waiting game, prices have NOT gotten any cheaper. So, I did it!! I purchased a machine.
Today, it was delivered and that's where the title of this post fits in...CHAOS, it was indeed!! The first delivery man was waiting at my house when I arrived from work, standing nose to noes with the garage door, the machine almost in his arms. He was ready!! He sets the new machine in the garage and we walk in the laundry room while he exclaimes, "WOW, this is old!! I can see why you're getting a new machine!"
Not that looks are the reason for a new machine, not that age is the reason for a new machine, (boy, that thought it itself could preach -- look at the inside buddy), but perhaps it was the fact that my old machine would only use HOT water, maybe it was the fact that about every 8 loads, you had to take the agitator off and unwind the article of clothing that had wound up and lodged around the greasy aditator.
Anyway, the technician attempted to move the machine out of my laundry room. In my best "womanly voice" I asked him, "Should I turn off the water to my entire house??" To which he replied, "no, not a problem." I trusted him. He was of course the PROFESSIONAL and I the meager woman. It was only after I was standing in a puddle of water that I realized the problem with that trust. Needless to say, with my new machine left sitting in the garage, the technician's parting words of wisdom were "call a plumber" and he left.
So, I called the store in which I purchased the machine and asked for a recommendation for a plumber. After sharing my story, the manager said he would be right over. To make a long, story short, I am now back at work. After 2-1/2 hours of a "FREE INSTALLATION" I am in fact, exhausted. It is amazing what a little "out of the ordinary" stress does to a person.
My washing machine has been on it's last leg for awhile now. Being the miserly shopper that I am, I have tried to limp it along in order to put off spending money. Yesterday, I finally came to terms that in the course of this waiting game, prices have NOT gotten any cheaper. So, I did it!! I purchased a machine.
Today, it was delivered and that's where the title of this post fits in...CHAOS, it was indeed!! The first delivery man was waiting at my house when I arrived from work, standing nose to noes with the garage door, the machine almost in his arms. He was ready!! He sets the new machine in the garage and we walk in the laundry room while he exclaimes, "WOW, this is old!! I can see why you're getting a new machine!"
Not that looks are the reason for a new machine, not that age is the reason for a new machine, (boy, that thought it itself could preach -- look at the inside buddy), but perhaps it was the fact that my old machine would only use HOT water, maybe it was the fact that about every 8 loads, you had to take the agitator off and unwind the article of clothing that had wound up and lodged around the greasy aditator.
Anyway, the technician attempted to move the machine out of my laundry room. In my best "womanly voice" I asked him, "Should I turn off the water to my entire house??" To which he replied, "no, not a problem." I trusted him. He was of course the PROFESSIONAL and I the meager woman. It was only after I was standing in a puddle of water that I realized the problem with that trust. Needless to say, with my new machine left sitting in the garage, the technician's parting words of wisdom were "call a plumber" and he left.
So, I called the store in which I purchased the machine and asked for a recommendation for a plumber. After sharing my story, the manager said he would be right over. To make a long, story short, I am now back at work. After 2-1/2 hours of a "FREE INSTALLATION" I am in fact, exhausted. It is amazing what a little "out of the ordinary" stress does to a person.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Home...at last
My boys returned home late last night. They spent last week with our youth group in Colorado Springs...which loosely translates into...I haven't spoken with these boys since the day they left...which happened to be my birthday...ok, ok, get focused here.
Anyway, as they unloaded the plush "chartered bus", I noticed a sweet spirit about them. Something was different. Could it be that all the "fasting" (because they were short on cash) had gotten to them, OR, could it be the loneliness of being away from mother (remember I said they NEVER called), OR, could it be that indeed God moved upon their lives?
As our evening unfolded, they began to share about their experiences of the past week. Amongst the "normal" boyish belching and the competitions of "passing gas", I sensed that God DID speak to these young men in a POWERFUL way!! Christopher said God revealed to him, he is to become a Worship Pastor!! That is so AWESOME!! Boston said his favorite part of this trip was NOT the white water rafting, NOT swimming at the 3 hotel pools, NOT the visit to the Air Force Academy, NOT gazing at the mountains, NOT the Garden of the Gods, BUT the Desperation Conference itself!! Isn't that just like God to let the one thing that "mommy" was nervous about (him sitting through a conference for three days), be the most life changing event thus far in his life!!
I can say with certainty, a great time was had by all!! Welcome home!!
Anyway, as they unloaded the plush "chartered bus", I noticed a sweet spirit about them. Something was different. Could it be that all the "fasting" (because they were short on cash) had gotten to them, OR, could it be the loneliness of being away from mother (remember I said they NEVER called), OR, could it be that indeed God moved upon their lives?
As our evening unfolded, they began to share about their experiences of the past week. Amongst the "normal" boyish belching and the competitions of "passing gas", I sensed that God DID speak to these young men in a POWERFUL way!! Christopher said God revealed to him, he is to become a Worship Pastor!! That is so AWESOME!! Boston said his favorite part of this trip was NOT the white water rafting, NOT swimming at the 3 hotel pools, NOT the visit to the Air Force Academy, NOT gazing at the mountains, NOT the Garden of the Gods, BUT the Desperation Conference itself!! Isn't that just like God to let the one thing that "mommy" was nervous about (him sitting through a conference for three days), be the most life changing event thus far in his life!!
I can say with certainty, a great time was had by all!! Welcome home!!
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
God's up to something
I just returned from an outstanding, amazing, wonderful weekend at Teen Challenge. It was Wives Weekend so all 9 of the Wives of the guys in the program came for a weekend retreat. Norm Wenig was our guest speaker and he challenged us to begin a journal. I figure blog../..journal...ok, I can do this.
Throughout the weekend, God spoke many things to me. Some of the items I would like to share about today are:
1) I learned the root cause of my anger. When I was a child, my parents rarely disciplined. I learned in order to get my way, I had to throw a fit. As I got older, the "fits" I chose to throw had to get bigger and bigger. This method worked beautifully in my younger years. Unfortunately, now that I'm a tad bit older, no one likes me to act that way...including myself. Since I'm aware of the root cause, I am now able to deal with the issue.
2) I became aware that for the past 11 years, I have blamed Jay for all the "stuff" leading up to our divorce. Even now that we are remarried, in my mind, I continued to blame everything on him. It wasn't until Saturday, July 29 that I realized I, too, played a GREAT part in the demise of our marriage. After asking for forgiveness from the Lord, as well as my husband, I have found freedom.
3) I stand amazed as the Lord is beginning to challenge Jay and I in new areas of our lives:
a) Jay shared with me about having prophetic dreams.
b) We had a powerful visitation from the Lord regarding issues in my heart I have buried deep. I felt the Lord's arms actually holding me.
c) A deeper form of discernment is beginning to pour out on our entire family.
d) Freedom is upon us.
4) We visited an Assembly of God church in Ankeny, Iowa that was FILLED with the Spirit of God. It was a unique experience for me. I witnessed young boys and girls (ages 10-12) on their faces at the altar during Worship. One even had a "word of knowledge" for the Pastor about a healing that day. I learned about a Spirit of TRAVAIL. It was incredible!!
This was a life changing weekend. God is totally amazing!! There is so much more to share. I'm challenged to keep this journal as Pastor Norm has encouraged us to do. I'm sure that out of that challenge, more exciting posts will come. I'm looking forward to it.
God Bless It!!!
Throughout the weekend, God spoke many things to me. Some of the items I would like to share about today are:
1) I learned the root cause of my anger. When I was a child, my parents rarely disciplined. I learned in order to get my way, I had to throw a fit. As I got older, the "fits" I chose to throw had to get bigger and bigger. This method worked beautifully in my younger years. Unfortunately, now that I'm a tad bit older, no one likes me to act that way...including myself. Since I'm aware of the root cause, I am now able to deal with the issue.
2) I became aware that for the past 11 years, I have blamed Jay for all the "stuff" leading up to our divorce. Even now that we are remarried, in my mind, I continued to blame everything on him. It wasn't until Saturday, July 29 that I realized I, too, played a GREAT part in the demise of our marriage. After asking for forgiveness from the Lord, as well as my husband, I have found freedom.
3) I stand amazed as the Lord is beginning to challenge Jay and I in new areas of our lives:
a) Jay shared with me about having prophetic dreams.
b) We had a powerful visitation from the Lord regarding issues in my heart I have buried deep. I felt the Lord's arms actually holding me.
c) A deeper form of discernment is beginning to pour out on our entire family.
d) Freedom is upon us.
4) We visited an Assembly of God church in Ankeny, Iowa that was FILLED with the Spirit of God. It was a unique experience for me. I witnessed young boys and girls (ages 10-12) on their faces at the altar during Worship. One even had a "word of knowledge" for the Pastor about a healing that day. I learned about a Spirit of TRAVAIL. It was incredible!!
This was a life changing weekend. God is totally amazing!! There is so much more to share. I'm challenged to keep this journal as Pastor Norm has encouraged us to do. I'm sure that out of that challenge, more exciting posts will come. I'm looking forward to it.
God Bless It!!!
Friday, July 21, 2006
Beautiful
My husband is currently in a facility called "Teen Challenge". He has been there 4 months. Although, this is not the first treatment program he has been in, this is the first that 1) he volunteered for, and 2) is TOTALLY Christian based.
I have been reading "Captivating" by John and Stasi Eldridge. It is a great book by the way!! I am learning so much about the woman God made when He created me!! Today, I read about God romancing me. That might sound crazy, but, think about it...what woman doesn't want to be romanced?? We were made with this in mind.
While reading, this sentence struck me: "A woman becomes beautiful when she knows she's loved." Since my husband has been away, my appearance has changed dramatically. I have lost a lot of weight, I am taking an effort in my appearance and I am exercising. All of these things help with my self esteem. I know I'm pretty, I am proud of the accomplishments I have made...I do feel beautiful!! BUT, honestly, NOTHING feeds my beauty more than KNOWING I am LOVED!! Knowing I am loved by my husband, by my children, by my parents, by my friends, but mostly, my beautiful identity comes from KNOWING I am loved by GOD - my father, my healer, my redeemer, my lover, my friend!!
Today, look in the mirror and ask God to show you what He sees when he looks at you. His answer just might surprise you!!!
I have been reading "Captivating" by John and Stasi Eldridge. It is a great book by the way!! I am learning so much about the woman God made when He created me!! Today, I read about God romancing me. That might sound crazy, but, think about it...what woman doesn't want to be romanced?? We were made with this in mind.
While reading, this sentence struck me: "A woman becomes beautiful when she knows she's loved." Since my husband has been away, my appearance has changed dramatically. I have lost a lot of weight, I am taking an effort in my appearance and I am exercising. All of these things help with my self esteem. I know I'm pretty, I am proud of the accomplishments I have made...I do feel beautiful!! BUT, honestly, NOTHING feeds my beauty more than KNOWING I am LOVED!! Knowing I am loved by my husband, by my children, by my parents, by my friends, but mostly, my beautiful identity comes from KNOWING I am loved by GOD - my father, my healer, my redeemer, my lover, my friend!!
Today, look in the mirror and ask God to show you what He sees when he looks at you. His answer just might surprise you!!!
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
"The Genesis Principle"
I thought I would start a blog to journal significant areas in my life I have learned and are learning from.
I am reading a book called "The Genesis Principle" and a couple of other ladies and I participate in a small group to discuss the book. We met last night and got "motivated" again to do some "warfare" in organizing our homes. The following happened to me as I began to clean out my closet.
I awoke this morning with a determined, inspired plan and an overwhelming feeling of motivation. My plan was to #1) separate. To accomplish this I had to try on EVERY PIECE of clothing. If the article of clothing was too big now, it was going to have to go. This was GREAT!! So, after my shower this morning, my work began.
I began trying on all types of jeans, capris and pants. The piles were really growing. It was AWESOME!! I then came to my dress section...and there it was..."the dress". In the midst of my weight loss challenges over the course of my lifetime I had bought a dress. This was no ordinary dress by the way. Let me tell you about it. This was a dress of much character. From the front it looked as a simple, elegant dress with a princess waist and scoop neckline, BUT, from the back, this dress has 3 bows and a peek-a-boo style open back that was absolutely breathtaking. Now you may be asking...Have I ever worn this dress?? The answer to your question is really not relevant at this time. But for the sake of this story, please note I have tried on this dress many times over the years....and each time, honestly, never ABLE to wear it even if I wanted to.
Anyway, I proceeded to follow my PLAN to try on all clothes in my closet. By this time, it's about 6:30 a.m. I placed the little black dress over my head and it proceeded to drop down around my body. I zipped it up and stood in front of the mirror. WOW!! The dress finally fit!! Although I realized at that moment, I had actually no place to wear this dress...I dismissed that thought as my plan was just to try on and see if it fits. I looked beautiful!! Even with wet hair and no makeup, the princess quality of this dress began filling my room. I glanced at the time and decided I had better continue with this closet cleanout. BUT, as I tried to remove the dress, I realized my WORST NIGHTMARE unfolding.
Picture this...alone in my house this morning as my boys are visiting with their grandpa for the week, robed in a beautiful dress, fit for a princess, only there is just one problem...THE ZIPPER IS STUCK!!! I pulled, pleaded, proded, pushed and prayed...to no avail. It is 7:00 a.m. in the morning...what can I do?? Sure, I thought, I guess I could wear the dress to work, and then quite possibly, wear this dress for the rest of my life!! It was only after 30 minutes of being stuck in this dress that I swallowed my pride. I was forced to call my neighbor (my hero) who came to rescue me. THEN, with her help, after about 15 minutes of her "power", the zipper finally gave way!! FREEDOM!!
Needless to say, "Operation Closet Cleanout" took a little longer than I anticipated this morning and my motivation has senselessly slowed. Please be in prayer for me that tonight I can focus and be on task, and that NO MORE ZIPPERS will get stuck!!
God Bless It!!!
I am reading a book called "The Genesis Principle" and a couple of other ladies and I participate in a small group to discuss the book. We met last night and got "motivated" again to do some "warfare" in organizing our homes. The following happened to me as I began to clean out my closet.
I awoke this morning with a determined, inspired plan and an overwhelming feeling of motivation. My plan was to #1) separate. To accomplish this I had to try on EVERY PIECE of clothing. If the article of clothing was too big now, it was going to have to go. This was GREAT!! So, after my shower this morning, my work began.
I began trying on all types of jeans, capris and pants. The piles were really growing. It was AWESOME!! I then came to my dress section...and there it was..."the dress". In the midst of my weight loss challenges over the course of my lifetime I had bought a dress. This was no ordinary dress by the way. Let me tell you about it. This was a dress of much character. From the front it looked as a simple, elegant dress with a princess waist and scoop neckline, BUT, from the back, this dress has 3 bows and a peek-a-boo style open back that was absolutely breathtaking. Now you may be asking...Have I ever worn this dress?? The answer to your question is really not relevant at this time. But for the sake of this story, please note I have tried on this dress many times over the years....and each time, honestly, never ABLE to wear it even if I wanted to.
Anyway, I proceeded to follow my PLAN to try on all clothes in my closet. By this time, it's about 6:30 a.m. I placed the little black dress over my head and it proceeded to drop down around my body. I zipped it up and stood in front of the mirror. WOW!! The dress finally fit!! Although I realized at that moment, I had actually no place to wear this dress...I dismissed that thought as my plan was just to try on and see if it fits. I looked beautiful!! Even with wet hair and no makeup, the princess quality of this dress began filling my room. I glanced at the time and decided I had better continue with this closet cleanout. BUT, as I tried to remove the dress, I realized my WORST NIGHTMARE unfolding.
Picture this...alone in my house this morning as my boys are visiting with their grandpa for the week, robed in a beautiful dress, fit for a princess, only there is just one problem...THE ZIPPER IS STUCK!!! I pulled, pleaded, proded, pushed and prayed...to no avail. It is 7:00 a.m. in the morning...what can I do?? Sure, I thought, I guess I could wear the dress to work, and then quite possibly, wear this dress for the rest of my life!! It was only after 30 minutes of being stuck in this dress that I swallowed my pride. I was forced to call my neighbor (my hero) who came to rescue me. THEN, with her help, after about 15 minutes of her "power", the zipper finally gave way!! FREEDOM!!
Needless to say, "Operation Closet Cleanout" took a little longer than I anticipated this morning and my motivation has senselessly slowed. Please be in prayer for me that tonight I can focus and be on task, and that NO MORE ZIPPERS will get stuck!!
God Bless It!!!
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