I have to start with a funny story. We have been visiting my family in northwest Ohio all week. Yesterday we took the kids out to see the farm animals. Jeremiah and Maiesha rode in the tractor with Uncle Adam while we walked back to the house. He was pulling a wagon full of wood that Adam and my Dad had just collected in the woods. Adam pulled out the ax to split a few pieces before transferring them to his truck. Jeremiah says to Maiesha, "Wow, look at that a**. Uncle Adam has a really big a**." Adam overheard the conversation and said, "I think you mean ax. I have a really big ax." Jeremiah replied, "Oh, yeah, that's what I meant." They are so facinated by the interesting things they see out here on the farm.
We had dinner out with Adam, my younger brother by 3 years, and his wife Jessica last night. They will celebrate their one year wedding anniversary on January 8. Adam was married for 7 years to his first wife and he has 2 beautiful daughters, Makayla and Gretchen. Jessica has a son, Adryan, and they have all become one big happy blended family. This is only the third time we have met Jessica so we are still in the getting to know you phase of our relationship. I don't see her as my sister-in-law yet, but more like my brother's new wife. It has been great spending time with them and getting to know her. Our conversation flowed easily last night and we did not lack for topics to talk about. (For any Sienfeld fans - we didn't have any awkward pauses. LOL) It was nice to sit and talk with newlyweds. You can learn from their perspective and recent pre-marital counseling wisedom, and we can share our more seasoned perspective with them.
I think, no I know, God appointed our conversation last night. I have learned over the years to become a better listener. I have taken James 1:19 to heart "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,..." This is really hard for me however, since I am a type A personality and I looove to talk. God has really shown me the value of listening and how I can be a better friend, spouse, mom, etc by just listening. It is not always my job to dish out my opinion and my advice when others are talking to me. It may be that I actually need to HEAR what God is telling me through another person. (What a novel idea. I am also incredible sarcastic which can get me into trouble too.)
There tends to be a great deal of repetition in my life when God is trying to teach me something. So the lesson I took away from last night, aside from just spending time with my brother and his wife, was I must trust God in other people's situations just like I must trust him in my own. I don't have to "fix" other people's problems and work to come up with solutions for them. The best thing I can do is pray for God to direct their path just as I ask him to direct my own. As I pray for them I also pray for myself that I will only share my thoughts and opinions with them as God leads me to do so and otherwise, I will just be a listener so I know how to better pray for them.
Boy, oh boy, is that the hardest thing I ever have to do, but if I trust God for the details in my own life, why in the world would I not trust him for the details in anyone else's life. I have to acknowledge that He is in control and His shoulders are more than big enough to carry all our burdens. I must spend some serious time meditating on Isaiah 55. This life is not about me. It is all about him and I simply get the privilege, by his design, to be one very small part of God's production.
1 “Come, all you who are thirsty,
come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without cost.
2 Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
and you will delight in the richest of fare.
3 Give ear and come to me;
listen, that you may live.
I will make an everlasting covenant with you,
my faithful love promised to David.
4 See, I have made him a witness to the peoples,
a ruler and commander of the peoples.
5 Surely you will summon nations you know not,
and nations you do not know will come running to you,
because of the LORD your God,
the Holy One of Israel,
for he has endowed you with splendor.”
6 Seek the LORD while he may be found;
call on him while he is near.
7 Let the wicked forsake their ways
and the unrighteous their thoughts.
Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them,
and to our God, for he will freely pardon.
8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the LORD.
9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
10 As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
12 You will go out in joy
and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills
will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field
will clap their hands.
13 Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper,
and instead of briers the myrtle will grow.
This will be for the LORD’s renown,
for an everlasting sign,
that will endure forever.”
Friday, December 30, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Loving Strangers
Maiesha had a field trip to Brookstone Assisted Living facility on Wednesday to sing Christmas carols. It always tugs at my heart when I go to places like that. It was so quick though. We were in and out in 30 minutes. I did talk to one resident only because she was next to me on her motorized scooter. I used to be down right afraid of "old people". It was kinda creepy. It smelled funny. I didn't have much to say since I didn't know any of them. It was a great excuse to stay away.
Ever since I had to occassional opportunity to help take care of my grandpa before he died, I have a new appreciation for the elderly. I see them differently. They just need someone to love them like anyone does. So many seem to be forgotten whether in a facility or still at home. I decided I could make a difference this Christmas season. As our gift to Jesus for his birthday, the kids and I visited Brookstone and another facility called Katherine's Place today. I baked 12 dozen cookies last night - half sugar free and half regular. Jeremiah and Maiesha put them in ziplock bags.
We talked about what we were going to do on the way to Katherine's Place. They were excited to deliver cookies and visit grandmas and grandpas who don't get many visitors and may not have families to see at all. I told them it was ok to give hugs if someone asked and they did a great job. They got to meet a man who is 105 years old and a woman who was celebrating her 100th birthday today. They are facinated by people who are 100, but Jeremiah decided he wants to die young so he isn't old when he gets to heaven. LOL
Seeing all of these people reminded me of my own grandparents and my favorite Great-aunt Lucille. For as long as I can remember we went to her and Uncle Marion's house. We would play cards or other games. Uncle Marion was a carpenter and he would make wooden cut outs that we could paint and give to our parents as Christmas gifts. We always stopped by at Halloween and even after leaving home for college, I always went by for a game of cards or canned rubbers whenever I was home for a visit. Tyrone joined in our visits and had to learn how to play too. Uncle Marion passed away in the fall of 2001. We continued to visit Aunt Lucille until her last Christmas in 2006. We stopped by to visit one last time. It is another one of my favorite Christmas memories. She wasn't able to talk much, but right before we left she saw Maiesha who was just 8 weeks old at the time and asked to hold her. I was so overjoyed that she got to hold her that night.
There is something about the elderly and children. Several people today asked to "touch the baby" or have a hug from the kids. There is an unspeakable joy that comes to their faces. One woman we met had Alzheimer's. She was so excited to see the kids. She talked to them and hugged them. Not 15 seconds later she repeated everything as if we had not already been standing there. A little later she saw us again for "the first time" as we passed by. Everytime she had so much enthusiasm and asked if she could take them home. I am sure she doesn't remember us now, but in those moments I hope we made her day.
It took a lot of courage to go visit those folks today, but I am so glad we did. I am no longer afraid to the elderly, but it still not natural and comfortable. It reminded of Galatians 5:6 "...The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." We were able to love on complete strangers by having a little faith in our Faithful God to see us through. On the way home, Maiesha asked if we could do that again. I said we definitely will.
Ever since I had to occassional opportunity to help take care of my grandpa before he died, I have a new appreciation for the elderly. I see them differently. They just need someone to love them like anyone does. So many seem to be forgotten whether in a facility or still at home. I decided I could make a difference this Christmas season. As our gift to Jesus for his birthday, the kids and I visited Brookstone and another facility called Katherine's Place today. I baked 12 dozen cookies last night - half sugar free and half regular. Jeremiah and Maiesha put them in ziplock bags.
We talked about what we were going to do on the way to Katherine's Place. They were excited to deliver cookies and visit grandmas and grandpas who don't get many visitors and may not have families to see at all. I told them it was ok to give hugs if someone asked and they did a great job. They got to meet a man who is 105 years old and a woman who was celebrating her 100th birthday today. They are facinated by people who are 100, but Jeremiah decided he wants to die young so he isn't old when he gets to heaven. LOL
Seeing all of these people reminded me of my own grandparents and my favorite Great-aunt Lucille. For as long as I can remember we went to her and Uncle Marion's house. We would play cards or other games. Uncle Marion was a carpenter and he would make wooden cut outs that we could paint and give to our parents as Christmas gifts. We always stopped by at Halloween and even after leaving home for college, I always went by for a game of cards or canned rubbers whenever I was home for a visit. Tyrone joined in our visits and had to learn how to play too. Uncle Marion passed away in the fall of 2001. We continued to visit Aunt Lucille until her last Christmas in 2006. We stopped by to visit one last time. It is another one of my favorite Christmas memories. She wasn't able to talk much, but right before we left she saw Maiesha who was just 8 weeks old at the time and asked to hold her. I was so overjoyed that she got to hold her that night.
There is something about the elderly and children. Several people today asked to "touch the baby" or have a hug from the kids. There is an unspeakable joy that comes to their faces. One woman we met had Alzheimer's. She was so excited to see the kids. She talked to them and hugged them. Not 15 seconds later she repeated everything as if we had not already been standing there. A little later she saw us again for "the first time" as we passed by. Everytime she had so much enthusiasm and asked if she could take them home. I am sure she doesn't remember us now, but in those moments I hope we made her day.
It took a lot of courage to go visit those folks today, but I am so glad we did. I am no longer afraid to the elderly, but it still not natural and comfortable. It reminded of Galatians 5:6 "...The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." We were able to love on complete strangers by having a little faith in our Faithful God to see us through. On the way home, Maiesha asked if we could do that again. I said we definitely will.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Christmas Legacy
I have spend a bit of time thinking about Christmas past today so I thought I would mention my favorite Christmas. It was Christmas 2008. Several years prior to this we had moved the Keppeler family gathering to the little country church where Grandma and Grandpa were attending. We did this because our family of nearly 50 people didn't fit so well in Grandma and Grandpa's house anymore. We had 4 generations ranging in age from newborn to 88 years. In 2008 Mom and Dad asked Grandma if she would like to have an open house gathering at home. She said yes and was very excited at the thought of having her house full of family again.
Grandpa's Alzheimer's was taking its toll along with other health complications that fall. In fact, over Thanksgiving he had a really bad spell in which we thought he may not make it to Christmas. He pulled out of that and was doing quite well - relatively speaking - by Christmas. It was a fantastic day. Most of the family was able to make it. Some even lingered into the late evening hours. We all felt "at home" again. Grandpa was able to eat with us. He watched his great-grandchildren play on the floor infront of his chair. He would even reach out to touch a toy when one of them presented it to him. He smiled and laughed ever so slightly as he watched them. It was truly priceless.
I wanted to freeze time in those moments. There was a glimpse of the old Grandpa sitting in that chair - his chair as we all knew it. For as long as I can remember that spot was reserved for Grandpa. A few chairs had filled the space over the years, but this one would be the last. It had the lift system in it. With the push of a button, it would raise him up or lower him back down. I charished every moment of that Christmas believing it would be the last one with Grandpa. Everyone commented on how great it was to be back in the house for Christmas. It felt kind of like old times.
We spent so many Christmas evenings there. We never had much for presents, but there was always fun. We would play cards around the kitchen table. We sang carol many year while Grandma or Aunt Linda played the piano. Grandma could only play by ear so she didn't play long but always sat near the piano. When we had snow we would bundle up and go out to sled down the big hill behind the house or ride across the fields on 4-wheelers. I will never forget the year Uncle Lee found an old car hood at the junk yard and we held on for dear life while being pulled behind the tractor. There were wrestling matches on the living room floor and games upstairs when we were little. There were a few years when Grandma or Grandpa would have to drive our family 200 yards down the road to our house because our diesel car would not start in the frigid temperatures.
Those days are gone now. That was Grandpa's last Christmas. There will most likely never be any Christmas gatherings like those again. We are all grown up now raising our children and beginning new family traditions from all over the country. I will always cherish these memories and look back with joy in my heart. I hope Grandpa enjoyed that last Christmas and I am thankful that we could come together as a family to make that day wonderful. I hope he was able to observe his legacy in those hours and was pleased.
Grandpa's Alzheimer's was taking its toll along with other health complications that fall. In fact, over Thanksgiving he had a really bad spell in which we thought he may not make it to Christmas. He pulled out of that and was doing quite well - relatively speaking - by Christmas. It was a fantastic day. Most of the family was able to make it. Some even lingered into the late evening hours. We all felt "at home" again. Grandpa was able to eat with us. He watched his great-grandchildren play on the floor infront of his chair. He would even reach out to touch a toy when one of them presented it to him. He smiled and laughed ever so slightly as he watched them. It was truly priceless.
I wanted to freeze time in those moments. There was a glimpse of the old Grandpa sitting in that chair - his chair as we all knew it. For as long as I can remember that spot was reserved for Grandpa. A few chairs had filled the space over the years, but this one would be the last. It had the lift system in it. With the push of a button, it would raise him up or lower him back down. I charished every moment of that Christmas believing it would be the last one with Grandpa. Everyone commented on how great it was to be back in the house for Christmas. It felt kind of like old times.
We spent so many Christmas evenings there. We never had much for presents, but there was always fun. We would play cards around the kitchen table. We sang carol many year while Grandma or Aunt Linda played the piano. Grandma could only play by ear so she didn't play long but always sat near the piano. When we had snow we would bundle up and go out to sled down the big hill behind the house or ride across the fields on 4-wheelers. I will never forget the year Uncle Lee found an old car hood at the junk yard and we held on for dear life while being pulled behind the tractor. There were wrestling matches on the living room floor and games upstairs when we were little. There were a few years when Grandma or Grandpa would have to drive our family 200 yards down the road to our house because our diesel car would not start in the frigid temperatures.
Those days are gone now. That was Grandpa's last Christmas. There will most likely never be any Christmas gatherings like those again. We are all grown up now raising our children and beginning new family traditions from all over the country. I will always cherish these memories and look back with joy in my heart. I hope Grandpa enjoyed that last Christmas and I am thankful that we could come together as a family to make that day wonderful. I hope he was able to observe his legacy in those hours and was pleased.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Merry Christmas
Christmas is almost here. This year like most I find myself filled with anticipation for the big day. This year as I think about that I realize I would rather celebrate all month long or even all year long. As a kid there was such a build up to Christmas morning. I am sorry to say it had mostly to do with the presents I wanted to open and see so badly. I remember standing in my bedroom at the end of the day looking at the stuff I had received in my teen and college years and thought, "This is it. I waited all year for this and now it's over. I have to wait another year to do it all again." It was pretty empty and meaningly. I am so thankful that Christmas is so much greater than gifts that will never satisfy.
We went to Maiesha's Christmas program at preschool today. We expected all the usual things a preschool program offers. This year we got something extra which I really appreciated. The pastor of the church shared a brief "sermonette" about two of his favorite Bible characters in the Christmas story. Not Mary or Joseph, not baby Jesus, not the sheperds nor the wise men. He shared the story of Simeon and Anna from Luke 2:25-40.
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah...28 Simeon took him [baby Jesus] in his arms and praised God, saying:
29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you may now dismiss[c] your servant in peace.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.”
36 There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and then was a widow until she was eighty-four.[d] She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38 Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
The pastor challenged us to make Jesus enough. For Simeon and Anna it was enough to see the baby Jesus. That's it. I have the rest of the story. I can pick up my Bible at any moment and read about his death and resurrection. I can read of Christ's return and his final triumph. Simeon and Anna believed and hoped in all the Messiah would do before any of it had taken place. Can I allow Jesus to be enough in my life? Enough for this Christmas season. Enough for every victory and defeat. Enough for every trial and hardship.
We are giving gifts and we will receive some too. We will celebrate with family. But if that were all gone, Christmas would still be everything it is meant to be because I have the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ. We are trying to instill that in our kids as well. We pray together. We read the Christmas story. We even sing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus. We are putting him in the center of our celebration so we don't forget why we celebrate. .
Here is a song God has given me in so many circumstances over the years. Now I think it is one of my new favorite Christmas songs.
Enough - Chris Tomlin http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHEm-b4IRYk
We went to Maiesha's Christmas program at preschool today. We expected all the usual things a preschool program offers. This year we got something extra which I really appreciated. The pastor of the church shared a brief "sermonette" about two of his favorite Bible characters in the Christmas story. Not Mary or Joseph, not baby Jesus, not the sheperds nor the wise men. He shared the story of Simeon and Anna from Luke 2:25-40.
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah...28 Simeon took him [baby Jesus] in his arms and praised God, saying:
29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you may now dismiss[c] your servant in peace.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.”
36 There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and then was a widow until she was eighty-four.[d] She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38 Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
The pastor challenged us to make Jesus enough. For Simeon and Anna it was enough to see the baby Jesus. That's it. I have the rest of the story. I can pick up my Bible at any moment and read about his death and resurrection. I can read of Christ's return and his final triumph. Simeon and Anna believed and hoped in all the Messiah would do before any of it had taken place. Can I allow Jesus to be enough in my life? Enough for this Christmas season. Enough for every victory and defeat. Enough for every trial and hardship.
We are giving gifts and we will receive some too. We will celebrate with family. But if that were all gone, Christmas would still be everything it is meant to be because I have the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ. We are trying to instill that in our kids as well. We pray together. We read the Christmas story. We even sing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus. We are putting him in the center of our celebration so we don't forget why we celebrate. .
Here is a song God has given me in so many circumstances over the years. Now I think it is one of my new favorite Christmas songs.
Enough - Chris Tomlin http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHEm-b4IRYk
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
I want every moment to count for eternity
I have been praying about my involvement with college students here in Fayetteville. In Evansville it was a no brainer. I was on campus almost everyday teaching, coaching or visiting. Students were constantly coming and going and our family developed many wonderful relationships with students from all walks of life. I am not on campus right now, but we have a lot of students at our church and that seems like a logical place to begin connecting. I have been anxious at times and just down right impatient at my worst moments. At first I thought it needed to be a formalized structured "ministry" that I could plug into, but a new friend encouraged me to make it more one-on-one and informal to get relationships started. This should have been a bit of a no brainer too, but being the new person in town I wanted an easier way.
In my reading today, I was reminded of the shortness of life and how abruptly one can be taken from this world. So the question becomes am I living intentionally in this moment God has given me? Am I investing in eternal Kingdom business? Or am I caught up in selfish ambition, worry and busyness. James 4:13-17 says, "Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them."
I first read these verses "on accident" when we were considering the move to Arkansas. It was an ahh ha moment in that we knew we should only stay in Evansville or move to Fayetteville if God was directing us to do so. It would have been comfortable to stay. We really liked Evansville, the University, our jobs, etc. It was scarey to move to a new place again which was much farther away from our families. On the other hand, it appeared to be a great career opportunity for Tyrone and a pay increase. In the end those things were only items to put on a list of pros and cons. The real decision was in the overwhelming peace we felt from the Holy Spirit after countless prayers, godly counsel, and talking it over and over and over again.
So with a renewed sense of God's purpose for sending us to Fayetteville, I walked up to one of the few college students I know at church and invited her to lunch at our house. Then I texted the other two college girls I know and invited them as well. It is exam week and I had no idea of their schedules, but it happened that all three had no exams today. Yeah God! no coincidence in the timing. We had a wonderful lunch today and I believe it is the beginning of discovering part of God's plan for me here.
I am excited and it feels great to have stepped out in faith to ask young ladies I don't know well to just have lunch. Now I must "Trust in the Lord with all [my] heart and lean not on [my] own understanding; in all [my] ways acknowledge him and he will make [my] path straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 It's the only way to proceed. Whether lunch today was the only opportunity I have to engage the college students here or it is the beginning of something more, without God's continued leading it will not be for His glory but my own.
In my reading today, I was reminded of the shortness of life and how abruptly one can be taken from this world. So the question becomes am I living intentionally in this moment God has given me? Am I investing in eternal Kingdom business? Or am I caught up in selfish ambition, worry and busyness. James 4:13-17 says, "Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them."
I first read these verses "on accident" when we were considering the move to Arkansas. It was an ahh ha moment in that we knew we should only stay in Evansville or move to Fayetteville if God was directing us to do so. It would have been comfortable to stay. We really liked Evansville, the University, our jobs, etc. It was scarey to move to a new place again which was much farther away from our families. On the other hand, it appeared to be a great career opportunity for Tyrone and a pay increase. In the end those things were only items to put on a list of pros and cons. The real decision was in the overwhelming peace we felt from the Holy Spirit after countless prayers, godly counsel, and talking it over and over and over again.
So with a renewed sense of God's purpose for sending us to Fayetteville, I walked up to one of the few college students I know at church and invited her to lunch at our house. Then I texted the other two college girls I know and invited them as well. It is exam week and I had no idea of their schedules, but it happened that all three had no exams today. Yeah God! no coincidence in the timing. We had a wonderful lunch today and I believe it is the beginning of discovering part of God's plan for me here.
I am excited and it feels great to have stepped out in faith to ask young ladies I don't know well to just have lunch. Now I must "Trust in the Lord with all [my] heart and lean not on [my] own understanding; in all [my] ways acknowledge him and he will make [my] path straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 It's the only way to proceed. Whether lunch today was the only opportunity I have to engage the college students here or it is the beginning of something more, without God's continued leading it will not be for His glory but my own.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Speak Up and Live Out
Tyrone and I had a date last night. Those have been few and far between since we moved, but we hope to get back into a routine of date night now that we are settled into the new house. Those times are very special to us - whether it is going to the gym or out to a work party like last night - they are each an investment in our relationship and our family.
Last night a man approached us right after we sat down to eat our hors d'ourves. He was an average height white man around 70 years old. We were at the back of the table next to the wall so it was not the easiest place to get to, but he made a special point to get to us. He started by saying he wanted to share something with us and he hoped we would take it the way he intends. He told us he was part of the Civil Rights Movement years ago growing up in the Ft. Smith, AR area. He and group of friends - both black and white - were planning to attend a high school football game. At some point, they were attacked by people who were not in favor of blacks and whites "hanging out" together. He said his teeth were kicked in and pointed to the teeth in his mouth there were not his own. He told us how encouraging it is to see interracial couples enjoying life together today. I simply thanked him for what he had done so many years ago.
As I pondered this encounter this morning, I spent my quiet time reading Hebrews 11 and 12. Hebrews 11 speaks of so many people from Able to Abraham to Rahab to countless others who were faithful to trust God. Verses 39-40 says "These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect." They believed in the promises of God before Jesus came to Earth just like I believe in His death and resurrection today.
Hebrews 12:1-2 is one of my favorite passages in all the Bible. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the thrown of God."
I take this to mean since all these people have trusted God before me even though they didn't get to see the whole picture of His plan while on earth, I can press on in my circumstances with the same hope being inspired by their perseverance and sacrifice. Just like that sweet man who was willing to stand up for the rights of all people, I must not be afraid to share the Gospel so that none would perish. I don't even have to fear physical harm so why is the risk of an awkward conversation and fear of rejection keep me from speaking up and living out my faith for all around me.
Last night a man approached us right after we sat down to eat our hors d'ourves. He was an average height white man around 70 years old. We were at the back of the table next to the wall so it was not the easiest place to get to, but he made a special point to get to us. He started by saying he wanted to share something with us and he hoped we would take it the way he intends. He told us he was part of the Civil Rights Movement years ago growing up in the Ft. Smith, AR area. He and group of friends - both black and white - were planning to attend a high school football game. At some point, they were attacked by people who were not in favor of blacks and whites "hanging out" together. He said his teeth were kicked in and pointed to the teeth in his mouth there were not his own. He told us how encouraging it is to see interracial couples enjoying life together today. I simply thanked him for what he had done so many years ago.
As I pondered this encounter this morning, I spent my quiet time reading Hebrews 11 and 12. Hebrews 11 speaks of so many people from Able to Abraham to Rahab to countless others who were faithful to trust God. Verses 39-40 says "These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect." They believed in the promises of God before Jesus came to Earth just like I believe in His death and resurrection today.
Hebrews 12:1-2 is one of my favorite passages in all the Bible. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the thrown of God."
I take this to mean since all these people have trusted God before me even though they didn't get to see the whole picture of His plan while on earth, I can press on in my circumstances with the same hope being inspired by their perseverance and sacrifice. Just like that sweet man who was willing to stand up for the rights of all people, I must not be afraid to share the Gospel so that none would perish. I don't even have to fear physical harm so why is the risk of an awkward conversation and fear of rejection keep me from speaking up and living out my faith for all around me.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Quiet Time
I have been doing such a poor job of making time to sit down with my Bible and spend time in the Scriptures. Since we moved to Fayetteville I have been sporatic at best. I have had sweet prayer time on my morning walks, but I know in my heart that is not enough. There have been a number of "signs" lately directing me to make time for God's Word, but I get distracted so easily.
I had a wonderful conversation with a friend yesterday. I was texting with her and felt a prompting to just call her instead. I think that is something I forget to do in today's world of Facebook and digital communication. I realized, as I was considering the phone call, that I am lonely right now and it is all because we moved away from the life we spent the last 4 years building. I am lonely for people, but more so lonely for time with my Savior.
So this afternoon I had a few minutes to sit down and read. I have started to reread "Crazy Love" a great book by Francis Chan. I decided to read until I came to a scripture reference then I would go read the whole chapter. In chapter 1 under a subheading, God is eternal, I found Psalm 102:12,27. Right before the scripture reference I read "Not being able to fully understand God is frustrating, but it is ridiculous for us to think we have the right to limit God to something we are capable of comprehending...If my mind is the size of a soda can and God is the size of all the oceans, it would be stupid for me to say He is only the small amount of water I can scoop into my little can. God is so much bigger, so far beyond our time-encased, air/food/sleep-dependent lives."
I opend my Bible to Psalm 102 and began to read. It is a lament pray to God. I was so encouraged to learn a year or two ago that it is okay to be totally honest with God when I am in the trenches of a difficult situation. He can handle whatever I have to say and wants to hear the full range of my emotions. There is something about opening up completely that sets my heart free. God already knows the darkest, ugliest thoughts I have so letting them out is more for me. It is an acknowledgement that I don't have to put on a show for God or wear a smiley-faced mask when I come before Him. Then I am free to see and experience the hope and joy God has for me.
In verse 12 the writer shifts gears - he wraps up his lament and begins to see the eternal God who loves him and is interceding on his behalf. "But you, O Lord, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations." Then in verse 18 in the midst of his expressions of hope and trust in God he writes, "Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord."
As I read this I couldn't help but think he was referring to me. So I sat on the floor a made my own lament to God and His glory shown through like the sunshine breaks through the clouds after a storm. Even though I don't know what His plan is exactly or completely I do see evidence of His workmanship every day. As I feel anxious and try to hurry God along the writer says in verses 27-28, "But you remain the same, and your years will never end. The children of your servants will live in your presence; their descendants will be established before you."
Oh, Lord, give me patience to trust in your plan and forgive me for my lack of faith.
I had a wonderful conversation with a friend yesterday. I was texting with her and felt a prompting to just call her instead. I think that is something I forget to do in today's world of Facebook and digital communication. I realized, as I was considering the phone call, that I am lonely right now and it is all because we moved away from the life we spent the last 4 years building. I am lonely for people, but more so lonely for time with my Savior.
So this afternoon I had a few minutes to sit down and read. I have started to reread "Crazy Love" a great book by Francis Chan. I decided to read until I came to a scripture reference then I would go read the whole chapter. In chapter 1 under a subheading, God is eternal, I found Psalm 102:12,27. Right before the scripture reference I read "Not being able to fully understand God is frustrating, but it is ridiculous for us to think we have the right to limit God to something we are capable of comprehending...If my mind is the size of a soda can and God is the size of all the oceans, it would be stupid for me to say He is only the small amount of water I can scoop into my little can. God is so much bigger, so far beyond our time-encased, air/food/sleep-dependent lives."
I opend my Bible to Psalm 102 and began to read. It is a lament pray to God. I was so encouraged to learn a year or two ago that it is okay to be totally honest with God when I am in the trenches of a difficult situation. He can handle whatever I have to say and wants to hear the full range of my emotions. There is something about opening up completely that sets my heart free. God already knows the darkest, ugliest thoughts I have so letting them out is more for me. It is an acknowledgement that I don't have to put on a show for God or wear a smiley-faced mask when I come before Him. Then I am free to see and experience the hope and joy God has for me.
In verse 12 the writer shifts gears - he wraps up his lament and begins to see the eternal God who loves him and is interceding on his behalf. "But you, O Lord, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations." Then in verse 18 in the midst of his expressions of hope and trust in God he writes, "Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord."
As I read this I couldn't help but think he was referring to me. So I sat on the floor a made my own lament to God and His glory shown through like the sunshine breaks through the clouds after a storm. Even though I don't know what His plan is exactly or completely I do see evidence of His workmanship every day. As I feel anxious and try to hurry God along the writer says in verses 27-28, "But you remain the same, and your years will never end. The children of your servants will live in your presence; their descendants will be established before you."
Oh, Lord, give me patience to trust in your plan and forgive me for my lack of faith.
Friday, December 2, 2011
I'm Running to Your Arms
So...this week has been tough. I have been handling a situation rather poorly with another person. I have been dealing with some physical "woman" issues. I have been reminded of just how much I do miss Evansville. I miss being a coach and a teacher and the friends I had there. I have not slept the best. My mind has been consumed by all the wrong stuff and although I have prayed I realize I have been operating out of my own selfish desires. Ouch!
This morning I sent a text message to a number of faithful friends and prayer warriors. They are my go-to people when I need prayer. I don't really have those relationships in Fayetteville yet. Those ladies sure came through for me this morning. And God has given me a few songs to encourage and discpline me while running the taxi service. The best one being "Forever Reign" by Hillsong. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Js1eqReQXgI I love to image myself running to the arms of Jesus especially when I have been struggling and feel far away. I love to picture myself sitting at His feet resting my arm on His knee while looking up at Him with complete adoration.
God has put me in some wonderful eternal relationships that will far out last my time on earth. I am overflowing with thankfulness. They have each helped me remember one of my favorite verses from Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Here are some of the encouraging words I received from my sisters in Jesus Christ today in an hour of need.
Psalm 116:1-2 "I love the Lord because He hears my voice and supplications. ecause He has inclined His ear to me, therefore, I shall call on Him as long as I live."
Please know that God is at work right now...without a doubt.
Praying for you my sister. Love you!
Remember who you are today and whose you are! There's nothing too big for our God and He's for you. Love ya girl - rest in truth today!
I am going to pray for u...Prayers (hugs)
...priviledged to pray for you. Love u.
This morning I sent a text message to a number of faithful friends and prayer warriors. They are my go-to people when I need prayer. I don't really have those relationships in Fayetteville yet. Those ladies sure came through for me this morning. And God has given me a few songs to encourage and discpline me while running the taxi service. The best one being "Forever Reign" by Hillsong. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Js1eqReQXgI I love to image myself running to the arms of Jesus especially when I have been struggling and feel far away. I love to picture myself sitting at His feet resting my arm on His knee while looking up at Him with complete adoration.
God has put me in some wonderful eternal relationships that will far out last my time on earth. I am overflowing with thankfulness. They have each helped me remember one of my favorite verses from Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Here are some of the encouraging words I received from my sisters in Jesus Christ today in an hour of need.
Psalm 116:1-2 "I love the Lord because He hears my voice and supplications. ecause He has inclined His ear to me, therefore, I shall call on Him as long as I live."
Please know that God is at work right now...without a doubt.
Praying for you my sister. Love you!
Remember who you are today and whose you are! There's nothing too big for our God and He's for you. Love ya girl - rest in truth today!
I am going to pray for u...Prayers (hugs)
...priviledged to pray for you. Love u.
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