Astrology-Southern Style

This morning in Bible class the lesson was on Numbers 13 and the things that God finds detestable, one of them being astrology, but I am hoping this is just considered fun and not offensive to God.

OKRA (Dec 22 - Jan 20)
Are tough on the outside but tender on the Inside. Okras have tremendous
influence. An older Okra can look back over his life and see the seeds of
his influence everywhere. You can do something good each day if you try.

CHITLIN (Jan 21 - Feb 19)
Chitlins come from humble backgrounds. A Chitlin, however, will make
something of himself if he is motivated and has lots of seasoning. In
dealing with Chitlins, be careful, they may surprise you. They can erupt
like Vesuvius. Chitlins are best with Catfish and Okra.

BOLL WEEVIL (Feb 20 - March 20)
You have an overwhelming curiosity. You're unsatisfied with the surface of
things, and you feel the need to bore deep into the interior of everything.
Needless to say, you are very intense and driven as if you had some inner
hunger. You love to stay busy and tend to work too much. Nobody in their
right mind is going to marry you, so don't worry about it.

MOON PIE (March 21 - April 20)
You're the type that spends a lot of Time on the front porch. A cinch to
recognize the physical appearance of Moon Pies. Big and round are the key
words here. You should marry anybody who you can get remotely interested in
the idea. It's not going to be easy. You always have a big smile and are
happy. This might be the year to think about aerobics. Maybe not.

POSSUM (April 21 - May 21)
When confronted with life's difficulties, Possums have a marked tendency to
withdraw and develop a don't-bother-me-about-it attitude. Sometimes you
become so withdrawn, people actually think you're dead. This strategy is
probably not psychologically healthy but seems to work for you. You are a
rare breed. Most folks love to watch you work and play. You are a night
person and mind your own business.

CRAWFISH (May 22 - June 21)
Crawfish is a water sign. If you work in an office, you're hanging around
the water cooler. Crawfish prefer the beach to the mountains, the pool to
the golf course, and the bathtub to the living room. You tend not to be
particularly attractive physically, But you have a very, very good head.

COLLARDS (June 22 - July 23)
Collards have a genius for communication. They love to get in the melting
pot of life and share their essence with The essence of those around them.
Collards make good social workers, psychologists, and baseball managers. As
far as your personal life goes, If you are Collards, stay away from
Crawfish. It just won't work. Save Yourself a lot of heartache.

CATFISH (July 24 - Aug 23)
Catfish are traditionalists in matters of The heart, although one's whiskers
may cause problems for loved ones. You Catfish are never easy people to
understand. You run fast. You work and play hard. Even though you prefer the
muddy bottoms to the clear surface of life, you are liked by most. Above all
else, Catfish should stay away from Moon Pies.

GRITS (Aug 24 - Sept 23)
Your highest aim is to be with others like yourself. You like to huddle
together with a big crowd of other Grits. You love to travel though, so
maybe you should think about joining a club. Where do you like to go?
Anywhere they have cheese, gravy, bacon, butter, or eggs and a good time. If
you can go somewhere where they have all these things, that serves you well.
You are pure in heart.

BOILED PEANUTS (Sept 24 - Oct 23)
You have a passionate desire to help your fellow man. Unfortunately, those
who know you best, your friends and loved ones, may find that your
personality is much too salty, and their criticism will affect you deeply
because you are really much softer than you appear. You should go right
ahead and marry anybody you want to because in a certain way, yours is a
charmed life. On the road of life, you can be sure that people will always
pull over and stop for you.

BUTTER BEAN (Oct 24 - Nov 22)
Always invite a Butter Bean to a party because Butter Beans get along well
with everybody. You, as a Butter Bean, should be proud. You've grown on the
vine of life, and you feel at home no matter what the setting. You can sit
next to anybody. However, you, too, shouldn't have anything to do with Moon
Pies.

ARMADILLO (Nov 23 - Dec 21)
You have a tendency to develop a tough exterior, but you are actually quite
gentle and kind inside. A good evening for you? Old friends, a fire, some
roots, fruit, worms, and insects. You are a throwback. You're not concerned
with today's fashions and trends. You're not concerned with anything about
today. You're almost prehistoric in your interests and behavior patterns.
You probably want to marry another Armadillo, but a Possum is another
somewhat kinky mating possibility.

Better Times

Yesterday day, my mom and I went to see the movie "The Secret Life of Bees". I had not done a lot of research about the movie, which I usually do before watching a movie. I had seen the trailers and watched a little of the interview with the actresses on Oprah. First of all let me say the acting in this movie was really good. Queen Latifah, Dakota Fanning, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson and Sophie Okonedo were all wonderful and it would be hard to say who did the best. But what I wasn't prepared for (since I had not read the book) was the subject matter of this movie. I thought it was about child abuse and it was, but was not prepared for the racial discrimination theme throughout the movie.

I just wonder in the year 2008 what it is like to be African American and make a movie like this one, or for that matter to just watch a movie like this one. I am not sure that brining up so horrible memories of our history helps bring healing. Although in this movie a group of black women befriend a white girl, the white people were so very cruel to the African Americans.

I lived in Mobile, Alabama during the 60's. I was there from the 5th-8th grades. When I was in 7th grade, they integrated our schools. I remember "white only" water fountains and restuarants. I remember being in one when a black man and a young boy were denied entrance. I don't know that I remembered that there were also separate entrances and seating places in the movie theater. I know it was a big deal when Rosa Parks would not go to the back of the bus. It makes me realize that we have come a long way. These memories also made me realize why it really is a big deal that we have an African American running for president. I just wish it was someone more like Alan Keyes (who is actually running as well but we did not have him on our ballot in Texas).

One thing this movie did make me think about is where were Christians during this dark time in our country? Did they stand up for social injustice? Would I have? While I lived in California I had a dear friend named Rubin White (who was black) and she was an intern during the Johnson administration. She had to take a test to qualify for the internship and was beaten in the bathroom by a group of white girls.
Her father was actually murdered by the Klu Klux Clan and she told the story of how he gathered her at his bedside and told his family to not let Satan win by hating the men that did this to him. One of those men was an elder in the church of Christ.

God's heart must just break to see what we do to one another when His love does not rule our prejudices. I pray that those days are over, but unfortunately you still get glimpses of them today. My greater prayer is that I will not be an onlooker, but that I will love unconditionally and if called to do so stand up and be a defender of what is right.

Heaven Celebration

Not as often as I should, but sometimes I just can't help but think what a wonderful scene we are going to have when we get to heaven. Yesterday's post about the scene in Revelation 7:9-10 reminded me of a song we sing sometimes in worship. I didn't realize the song actually was us singing scripture. I think next time it will give it more meaning. However...I can't wait until we all stand, kneel, lie prostrate around the lamb Himself and sing.

Salvation belongs to our God
Who sits upon the throne
And unto the Lamb

Praise and glory
Wisdom and thanks
Honor and power and strength
Be to our God forever and ever
Be to our God forever and ever

And we the redeemed shall be strong
In purpose and unity
Declaring aloud...

Stepping Up

In Ladies Bible Class we are doing the Beth Moore study "Stepping Up". If you have never done a Beth Moore study, you do not know what you are missing. She just takes your heart places it has never been before. "Stepping Up" is a study of the Psalms of Ascent, which are Psalms 120 - 134. It occurs to me that I have missed out, being raised in the church of Christ, on celebrations. As a heritage, we have minimized most celebrations stating that every Sunday is a celebration. While that is true, there were still just special times of celebration that the Jews participated in and looked forward to. So in the Psalms of Ascent, Beth Moore shows us the Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Weeks, Feast of Tabernacles. But the fascinating thing about this study is how she takes these particular feasts and shows us how Jesus celebrated each of them in His life and especially what He said in the midst of those celebrations that made so much more sense of His "I Am" statements.

In the Feast of Unleavened Bread she made these comparisons:

Day One - Passover - observed as a Sabbath
Day Two - Beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread - observed as a Sabbath
Day Three - offering of firstfruits of the harvest to the LORD
Day One - Passover - Jesus becomes our Passover lamb
Day Two - Beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread - Jesus’ body lies without corruption and awaits His return
Day Three - Offering of Firstfruits - Jesus’ resurrection

The Feast of Weeks also have ties with Jesus. Beth tells us that its commemoration on the 50th day earned it the Greek name of Pentecost in the New Testamant.
I had always thought that “Pentecost” was just a name Christians made up to refer to what happened in Acts. I had no idea it was an Old Testament festival celebrated by the Jews (and, therefore, Jesus) each year. But the Day of Pentecost is the first day of the Feast of Weeks.

To tie it back in with the Feast of Unleavened Bread and Firstfruits, Exodus 23:16 refers to the Feast of Weeks (or PENTECOST)as the Feast of the HARVEST.

This feast is all about celebrating God and His faithfulness with joy. Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread occurred in the early spring. The Feast of Weeks occurred in early summer. This feast occurred in our late September or early October.

In the Feast of the Tabernacles there is a strong emphasis on Messiah. This particular feast, moreso than any other, had a strong emphasis on the Messiah. Beth tells us that Psalms 113-118 are called the Hallel. They were always sung on Passover and at the Feast of Tabernacles. Jesus and the disciples finished the Last Supper by singing Psalm 118. This was the time of year when the Jews expectation of the Messiah was the highest. The term “hosanna” means “save now” - in other words, “Send Messiah!”

Beth shows us two scriptures that unequivocally link this aspect of the feast to Jesus. First, in Leviticus 23:33-44 God is giving Moses instructions on how to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles. In verse 40 He says:

On the first day you are to take choice fruit from the trees, and palm fronds, leafy branches and poplars, and rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days.

In Matthew 21:1-9 we read about Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem for His last Passover feast. Verses 8 and 9 tell us:

A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna (Send Messiah!) to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord! Hosanna (Send Messiah!) to the highest!”

Beth says that the moment Jesus was introduced as Messiah this way began the Feast of Tabernacles, regardless of the season. The time of year no longer mattered. Messiah was here. The Feast of Tabernacles had begun.

Beth also explains that part of the Feast of Tabernacles (and, really, all the feasts) would have included the campsites of thousands of pilgrims who had come to Jerusalem for the feast. All the Israelites would have encamped around the city, with their tabernacles lit every night by candlelight. Beth compares the Israelites feelings when seeing these lights to our feelings when we see Christmas lights.

The celebration of water pouring was the pinnacle of the feast. It took place on the final day. Priests would gather water from the Pool of Siloam and then pour it out before the Lord in the temple (incidentally, while DANCING!!). While they were doing this, the people would be yelling - YELLING - Psalm 118:25: “Save now, I pray, O LORD! Hosanna!”

She then guides us through Jesus’ actions during the Feast of the Tabernacles in John 7 and 8. John 7 in my NIV translation actually has the heading “Jesus Goes to the Feast of Tabernacles.” In John 7:37 we read:

On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.” (Isaiah 12:3)

Jesus would have been making this proclamation as the people were celebrating and shouting “Save now!”

John 8:12 takes us to the day after the feast, when the people are packing up their tents, putting out their lights, and heading home. It is during this setting that Jesus says:

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

I am very familiar with these words, and have thought they were just nice descriptions (good visuals) But now that I know why He was using these terms, and there was actual Biblical meaning behind them, not just allegory, it makes it even more powerful.

Finally, there will also be a Feast of Tabernacles in heaven. God descended to us so we could ascend to Him. Everything is about men dwelling with God. Palm fronds always represent the Feast of Tabernacles. Revelation 7:9-10 says:

After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

I am thinking that perhaps I should spend some more time studying the feasts so that I will totally appreciate the feast in Heaven one day.

This and That

Steve read my post from yesterday and made some corrections.
1. He’s sitting in front of the TV: what is on the screen? Military Channel (he said it would be the History channel)
7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? airplane pictures or guns (he said he would not collect guns, and does collect buffalo nickels)
11. What would he never wear? shorts (he wanted to make sure no one confused this with underwear as he does wear those ;) )
15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn’t do? Pick my teeth with my finger (he said I also lick my knife?)
16. How many states has he lived in? 4, I think(California, Texas, Nebraska, North Dakota)(he added Kansas)
17. What is his heritage? English
20. What could he spend hours doing? surfing the internet or reading (he said it would be watching airplanes)
So...7 wrong answers. Guess I need another 20 years of marriage to get to know him better :)

We went and voted today. In all my years of voting, I had never seen such long lines. It only took about 15 minutes, but there was constant traffic. Felt sorry for the guy who had to make sure we were standing in line correctly and telling people they could not be on their cell phones. Not sure I had ever seen the sign prohibiting cell phones within 100 feet of the polls, but...there it was. Anyway, this is also the first time that I just felt it was a waste of time to vote. Just wish there was some way to send the message to Washington that we are all tired of the current way things are run. There has to be a better way.

Thought it was interesting today on one of the Game Shows the question was whose copy of the Koran did the first muslim Senator use to be sworn in with: Theodore Rooselvelt, John F. Kennedy, Thomas Jefferson or Abraham Lincoln. Even though the muslim Senator Keith Ellison was sworn in January 2007, he used a copy of Thomas Jefferson's Koran, which he just had in his library. Just found that to be an interesting piece of trivia.

My husband

I found this meme on another blog today and thought it was a fun idea since most of us usually post information about ourselves and not our spouses. So let me tell you about Steve and then hopefully several of you will post about your spouse.

1. He’s sitting in front of the TV: what is on the screen? Military Channel
2. You’re out to eat. What kind of dressing does he get on his salad? Thousand Island
3. What is one food he doesn’t like? anything with cheese
4. You go out to the bar. What does he order? Diet Dr. Pepper
5. Where did he go to high school? Benson High School, Omaha Nebraska
6. What size shoe does he wear? 12
7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? airplane pictures or guns
8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? Tuna
9. What would the Husband eat every day if he could? Taco Bell burritos
10. What is his favorite cereal? Fiber One or Wheaties
11. What would he never wear? shorts
12. What is his favorite sports team? doesn't watch sports
13. Who will he vote for? Chuck Baldwin of the Constitutional party
14. Who is his best friend? right now he is enjoying Tim Perkins
15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn’t do? Pick my teeth with my finger
16. How many states has he lived in? 4, I think(California, Texas, Nebraska, North Dakota)
17. What is his heritage? English
18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what kind? He likes sugar free chocolate pie
19. Did he play sports in high school? nope
20. What could he spend hours doing? surfing the internet or reading

Good Thing or Bad Thing

This month in the Reader's Digest there was an article about how by a landslide Obama is the candidate of choice by 17 nations. Is that a good thing? Do we neccessarily want a candidate that is endorsed by Russia? Here are some quotes from the article.

"It's a good thing for John McCain that only American citizens can vote in U.S. presidential elections. If the election were held overseas, or even in the rest of North America, the Republican nominee wouldn't stand a chance.

This was just one of the remarkable findings in a new Reader's Digest Global Poll in which we asked people in 17 countries, including the United States, to name the issues they care about most and tell how they feel about the United States and the presidential contenders. (For an explanation of the poll methodology, see below.)

"It's Obama by a landslide—except in the country in which he's actually running for president," says John Fredricks, director of polling and research for Reader's Digest. "What is most striking is the margin of his support."

In the Netherlands, Obamamania surpasses 90 percent. In Germany, it's at 85 percent-numbers not usually seen in political polling. Indeed, Obama plays well in every country we surveyed (see If the World Could Vote chart). "

If you have not checked out the Constitutional Party you might find this opening statement of their preamble interesting.
"The Constitution Party gratefully acknowledges the blessing of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as Creator, Preserver and Ruler of the Universe and of these United States. We hereby appeal to Him for mercy, aid, comfort, guidance and the protection of His Providence as we work to restore and preserve these United States.

This great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason peoples of other faiths have been and are afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.

The goal of the Constitution Party is to restore American jurisprudence to its Biblical foundations and to limit the federal government to its Constitutional boundaries."

What Jesus Might Say

Didn't have a whole lot to say on my own today. Went to the McKinney Trade Days and wore myself out. So...I found this artcile by Danny Sims from Altamesa Church of Christ and thought I would post it in hopes that it might bless someone. I found this article on www.heartlight.org.

Things Jesus Might Say
"What would Jesus say when the Dow swings nearly 1,000 points in one day? I'm not sure, but this is my take on it.

"You know I love you. Your value has not changed one bit, no matter what's happened to your market accounts.

"The downturn in the market can remind you of something I have often said: 'This world is not your home.' Not long ago people would store up their treasures in barns where moth and rust could destroy. Your investments are a little more high-tech, but not so much different in some ways. You're not worried about moths or rust, you're worried about uncertainty and sudden downswings you cannot control. Like the scriptures say, cast all your anxieties on me because I love you. Maybe that means something more to you today than ever before. If so, that's a good thing!

"As the market goes up and down, always know that my love for you never changes. In other words, let my love be the most important factor in your mindset and attitude, not what Fox News or CNN is reporting. My love will bring comfort to your soul. I know you're stressed-out. Faithful people have faced terrible circumstances many times over the years. Just keep your eyes focused on me and my Father's will.

"Most financial analysts are exactly right when they say 'focus on the long term.' This is a principle my Father's Word has been teaching for generations. Much tragedy occurs when people make rash decisions, when they get carried away with 'short-term crisis.' I've seen people take harsh measures and make terrible decisions because they could only see the moment. Focus on all the promises for eternity. That will make a huge difference today! Let the current market crisis help you reframe your thinking with respect to the future. My Father wants us to look past the short term and focus on a more distant horizon. And that horizon depends wholly on His will. The future depends on the Father's love and plans, not on the Dow Jones. No matter what happens today or tomorrow, His plans are to give you a hope and a future of calling on His name and finding Him."

Billy Graham

Friday is Steve and my date day, so today we went out to eat lunch at TGI Friday's and to see the movie Billy. First of all let me say how kind my husband is to not make me feel stupid when I do stupid things. I had spent some time trying to find a restaurant discount for us in my new Passport book, but nothing sounded very good and then I remembered I had a 20% off at TGI Friday's. As we are waiting for our food to come I tell Steve "that coupon expires today", he looks at it and says "no it doesn't, this is October and this expired in September". Oh brother! All my efforts to save us some money for naught. Fortunately, I really enjoyed my chicken Parmesan with tortellini.

We then went to see Billy, which was about the early years of Billy Graham. I thought it was interesting to see how he got his start, but we both didn't think the movie was a quality film. The guy that played Billy Graham just did not seem much like him to me, unless in his early years he went around with this really geeky smile all the time? Lindsey Wagner played his mother and it took me about the first quarter of the movie to realize it was her because she was so aged. Billy's life is told from the viewpoint of Charles Templeton who was a contemporary evangelist of Billy Graham's who becomes an agnostic after he struggled understanding how a loving God would allow millions of people to die at Auschwitz. If the movie was true, several times in his younger years Billy was told he did not have the talent to preach and probably would not amount to much. Wonder what those people think now? Wonder why he rose beyond those expectations? Perhaps because he listened to the call of God over the opinions of others?? I am sure it helped having parents and a wife who did believe in him. I think it is hard for all of us to realize that our identity is in Christ and not what other's think of us. But if we are faithful to God's call, He will always give us the strength to complete the work He has designed for us to do.

Thank You

Thank you for your prayers for my colonoscopy. God answered them. I had a clear report and don't have to have another one for ten years! Yeah! If you haven't had one yet, the worse part is drinking the "stuff" you have to drink every 10 minutes for 2 hours. I found putting orange flavor in it helped me the most (after trying lemon-lime, lemon, and strawberry-kiwi. Several people had told me that they had no memory of their colonoscopy, including my Steve, so imagine my surprise when I laid and watched the screen the entire time and saw the inside of my colon. It was rather cool, but I was thankful that I could not feel anything. The worse part of the procedure today was the nurse that could not find a vein for the IV, she killed me with that needle. The 2nd nurse came in and found it immediately!

Because I did not know exactly what was going to happen and did think it would be similar to surgery where the anesthesia put me completely out, I was a little anxious. I find going under anesthesia unnerving and I think that is because you are totally out of control. I had about 15 minutes in my room by myself before they took me back (they wouldn't let Steve go back with me). I found myself singing and praying and just asking God to still my soul and let me feel His presence. I sat here this afternoon and reflected back on the peace that gave me and just wondered how those that don't have the promises of my God calm themselves or find peace.

In this month's issue of "Does God Exist" by John Clayton he talks about the different seasons of life and what they looked like from the standpoint of an atheist, which he was and his parents remained to be, and from the standpoint of a Christian, which he is now. He said the biggest difference in him was that he no longer fears death. He thinks it is the biggest difference he sees in all Christians is that they face the future with hope instead of anxiousness and worry.
Even right now with the financial crisis, since our treasure is laid up in heaven and not on earth, we can rest that God will be faithful to His promise to "supply all of our needs."

I am thankful on this day and every other that I love a God who is faithful to His promises and that I can always trust Him to supply the answer for whatever need I have. I pray more and more I will just relinquish control and always let my God be God.

No Time To Blog

I have out of town company and am prepping for a colonoscopy tomorrow, so no time to blog today. Not looking forward to the colonoscopy. If you have a few minutes to offer a prayer for normal results, I would appreciate it.

How Horrible

I was sent these pictures on Saturday and could not imagine what it must have been like to have been at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival and to have seen this happen. Especially if you had been family on the ground. It must have been horrible. Steve went to an airshow Saturday and a similar tragedy could have happened before his eyes. Guess it is the risk everyone takes.


I have thought it would be neat to go to this event. Although, I am not sure I would want to deal with the crowds. I like the fun shaped balloons which I tend to enjoy more than the regular ones, although they are pretty colorful.

Sunday Snippets

Don't really have many take aways from today, but I did pick up a flyer in the pew at Laura and Evan's wedding yesterday at University Park United Methodist church. I thought it was well done and worth posting.

"Children In Worship At University Park UMC"
"When children come to church, adults sometimes wonder why?"
"Bringing children into the sanctuary is something like including them at the dinner table. Even though their manners are far from elegant-it's done in the hope that, given time, they'll begin to feel a part of the family. We adults should accept-even value-children's restlessness during worship, trusting that they are also learning that:
-It's important to come to church each Sunday.
-The sights, sounds of worship are meaningful even if they're not always understandable.
-They are part of a church family committed to helping them grow their faith.
-Something is expected of them in church, and they may respond in song, prayer and offering.

Bringing your child to church can be a real exercise in aggravation. But then again, so are many other facets of parenting, and we manage our way through them. Young children in worship may giggle, poke and swing their legs, but it is their right to worship. Our satisfaction comes as we learn to share and appreciate their worship, and in later years when we see them stand in the midst of the church with a faith of their own."

"ABCs for parents and other adults"
Arrive in time to find a good place to sit to make sure your children can see.
Bring something along for little ones to hold or look at-something soft and quiet such as crayons and paper.
Call a 'practice session' at home. The Lord's Prayer, The Gloria and the Doxology can be practiced to help children keep up with the speed of adults.
Decide on a cue to let children know it's time to settle down.
Express joy at having children worship with you. Sen an occasional smile in their direction.
Free yourself of anxieties. Relax!
Give thanks to God for the presence of children.
Help parents of small children by showing your appreciation and your support of 'all God's children'."

Congratulations Aly

My neice Aly was crowned Homecoming Queen in Olympia, Washington last night. She was so surprised. We are so proud of her. I know I am prejudiced, but I thought she looked beautiful!



This is Aly and her dad, my youngest Brother Brad.


This is Aly and her older sister Alyssa, who did her hair.


I wonder how chilly she was in that dress? I notice everyone else has on jackets and Alyssa even has a scarf around her neck!

Surrender

I don't know about you but one of the spiritual struggles I have is in surrendering total control to God. Seems like I do okay for a while, but I always seem to eventually grab whatever back. Guess I am a slow learner, because me being in control never works. My sister Caren gave me a piece of framed art almost 20 years ago that I still have hanging in my bedroom because I constantly need to be reminded of the message that is on it:
Broken Dreams by Robert J. Burdette

As children bring their broken toys
With tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God
Because He was my friend.
But then instead of leaving Him
In peace to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help
With ways that were my own.

At last I snatched them back and cried,
"How could you be so slow"
"My child," He said, "What could I do?
You never did let go."

Last night I was listening to my Ipod as I went to sleep and the very first song was Surrender by the Barlow Girls. The words once again spoke to my heart. I pray that I will eventually learn this lesson with my God and say with my whole heart "I Surrender All."

My hands hold safely to my dreams
Clutching tightly not one has fallen
So many years I've shaped each one
Reflecting my heart showing who I am
Now you're asking me to show
What I'm holding oh so tightly
Can't open my hands can't let go
Does it matter?
Should I show you?
Can't you let me go?

Surrender, surrender you whisper gently
You say I will be free
I know but can't you see?
My dreams are me. My dreams are me

You say you have a plan for me
And that you want the best for my life
Told me the world had yet to see
What you can do with one
That's committed to Your calling
I know of course what I should do
That I can't hold these dreams forever
If I give them now to You
Will You take them away forever?
Or can I dream again?

Presidential Race

I watched the Presidential debate last night and thought to myself "did we hear anything new?" It seemed to me it was the same old rhetoric. I am trying not to worry about this election and to trust that God will put into power the person who should be there. The scary part to me, is that He will not necessarily put the person in who is the most godly. It could be that He gives America what we are asking for and then teaches us hard lessons as He did in the Old Testament when His people clamored for a king.

But, I am just amazed to find out that there are actually 11 other candidates for President that we have not head about, not to mention about another 50 who are running as Independents, because in America any citizen over the age of 35 can run for president. Nevertheless, did you know there are other parties besides the Republican and Democrat party? Here are some of them: Constitutional Party, Libertarian Party, Boston Tea Party, Green Party, Independent Party, Prohibition Party, Reform Party, Socialist Party, Party of Socialism and Liberation, Socialist Worker's Party and finally the Marijuana Party.

Seems to me it would be more interesting to at least have a debate with the the Constitutionalists, Liberationist, and Independents along with the Republican and Democrat. The hard thing is knowing you don't like the Republican or Democrat but to vote for anyone else right now is throwing away your vote. I would just like to have a better choice.

Anyway...if you want more information about this post, I found the information at:
www.politics1.com/p2008.htm

Smokers Hack

Today I was sitting at the eye doctor waiting to drive Steve home since he was getting his eyes dilated. While there, a man came in who was probably in his 60's that was constantly coughing, but not a cold cough (thank goodness or I would be getting sick) but an obvious smoker's hack (you instantly recognize that). As I was feeling smug and thinking to myself "why would anyone subject themselves to that, hasn't he heard about lung cancer?" the finger came back to me,and the voice "for the same reason you over eat, haven't you heard that causes heart attacks". Ouch! A vice is a vice. Don't you just hate it when truth hits you between the eyes?

Jesus verses Satan

Today I was reading a past issue of Pray magazine and there was an article that is a good followup to my post yesterday on spiritual warfare.

"Sometimes we forget exactly who the enemy is and is not. Scripture clearly tells us who Satan is by the names it assigns him, especially when contrasted to the names given to Jesus. The contrast not only details their respective missions and mandates but also shows us exactly us exactly who deserves our awe and attention.
-Satan in Hebrew means 'adversary', Jesus means 'saviour'
-The devil is called our 'enemy', Jesus is known as 'the friend of sinners'
-The 'dragon' is defeated by the victorious 'lamb'
-'Belial'--the worthless one--is a pathetic contrast to the one to whom all the saints cry 'Worthy'
-The 'murderer's' work is undone by the one who is not only 'the giver of life' but 'the resurrection'
-The 'father of lies' is impotent before the 'truth'
-The 'thief's' mission is ever thwarted by the 'the Giver of every good and perfect gift'
-The 'prince of the world' has no authority over the 'King of kings'
-The 'prince of the power of the air' must submit to the one who is 'above all government, authority, power and dominion'
-The 'destroyer's' works are destroyed by the 'Son of God'
-The 'tempter' tries to ensnare us while the 'deliverer' came to save us
-We are either children of the 'evil one' or of the 'heavenly Father'
-We choose to live under the authority of either the 'god of this passing age' or the 'Alpha and Omega, who was and is, and is to come'
-We follow either 'Beelzebub'(the 'lord of the flies') or the 'God of the living'

The Lord created us to fear only Him. When we fear the enemy, we don't just forfeit our peace--we ultimately give him the attention he seeks. Our worry, anxiety, and torment are the corrupt, distorted worship he craves. Instead of giving him this pleasure we can defeat him by offering prayers of worship to God. He alone deserves our holy reverential fear in the form of awe and wonder."

This excerpt was from the Jan/Feb 2008 issue of Pray Magazine and written by Guy Chevrau, the author of Spiritual Warfare Sideways: Keeping The Focus On Jesus.

Sunday Snippet

Today our minister started a new series called Kingdomnomics. His text today was Psalms 24 and he reminded us that everything belongs to the Lord. He challenged us to change our language this week and instead of using "my" or "our" we replace them with God's, for example "God's House", "God's car","God's children", etc. Wonder why this is not already natural conversation for us?

Tonight we had an interesting discussion in our Life Group on Spiritual Warfare. I think it is interesting how little time we spend thinking about the warfare that is going on for our soul. While I think it is wise to be aware that Satan is looking for the chink in our armor, (1 Peter 5:8)I find comfort in knowing if we are covered with the blood of Jesus that He is powerless, the only power He has is the power we surrender to Him. It was interesting that we had several people that did not know Satan is not omnipresent, or all knowing. I think He takes great delight when he, the father of lies (John 8:44), has us convinced that he is a great as God. I am thankful that God tells us in Ephesians 6 how we can arm ourselves against the attacks of Satan and has promised us with every temptation he will provide us a way out (I Cor. 10:13)But I do think it is important that realize everyday there is a battle going on between good and bad, but we can also rejoice that we have seen the end of the story and we live in all confidence that good wins. I think it was in a Carmen video where Satan was getting an update from one of his demons on whether his plan was working or not and he tells the demon that they way he will "get" the humans is to keep reminding them of their past, and the demon says "how is that going to work they will just remind you of your future" Cha-ching.

Another Tiring Day

So...it was not the smartest decision to go to Canton yesterday, when I knew I had volunteered to help my friend Sandy all day today. She has a franchise of Just Between Friends and I volunteered to help check people out.

If you are a mom reading this blog and don't know about Just Between Friends you can go to www.jbfsale.com and you can find out all you would want to know. But basically this is a consignment sale for all things baby and maternity. Not only can you find great clothing, toys, and sundries at great prices but you can sell all of your gently used items and make back some of that money you paid for your child to wear that outfit once or twice. They give you back 65% of the profits and if you volunteer they will give you 70%, plus as a volunteer you get to shop the presale before everything is picked over. This was only their 2nd sale but they doubled their consigners. So the amazing thing was seeing all the stuff 50 people brought together (the number of consigners for this sale) The entire room was filled to the brim. I think I counted 20 racks full of clothes and some of those had double rows!
Guess they have franchises all over North Texas, so you might want to check it out.

Last night I went to bed at 10:00 which was amazingly early for me. As I finish this it is 8:30 and I am on my way. It must be a record!!

1st Monday at Canton

So one of the things I had not done since my accident that I have been wanting to do is go to Canton. I have always loved shopping for the one of a kind types of things you can find at Canton. Today the love affair lost it's flair.

First of all, dumb me just drove like I thought I knew where I was going until after 90 minutes things were just not looking familiar and I realized I was on I-30, not I-20. Thanks to the Garmin it took me down a side road and I was only 24 miles out of the way. Then when we got there the guy sent me to what I thought was handicap parking, but I could not find any. We did luck out and found a place close to where you rent scooters, only the lady is front of me was getting the last one. I wanted to offer her money for hers, she didn't look like she needed it anyway, but I just gave her this puppy dog look that said "don't I look like I need it more than you?", but she must have not thought so, because she just rode off with no hesitation. Of course there were 100 more scooter's round that place and not one person got off theirs and offered it to me. How rude was that???

So, I actually used my walker and spent 6 hours walking around Canton!!! I had to sit a little every hour to make it, but I did make it. I do have to complain a little more though in that I think it is sad there are so many rude people. They don't look you in the eye and just bowl you over with those scooters or rolling carts. No one says "excuse me" much less "sorry". I could not help but wonder if I was that rude before my accident, just oblivious to those who are handicapped.

So part of the negative of retirment is having to scale back and be on retirment income. Couldn't just splurge on whatever I wanted, as now there are budgets. Really wanted a beautiful floral arrangement for my dining room table, but $90.00 was more than my budget. I also was looking for a mirror to go over my entry way table, but no look. I came home with some dips and sauces for holiday parties, and several packages of soups. There is a company called All Of Us: Old Plantation Soups and Dips, and I love their soups, the Chicken Enchilada is the best, but I also like the Vegetable, Chicken and Vaquero. Nothing better than a good bowl of soup and fresh salad during the winter months.

Anyway...I think I will sleep really well tonight...if I can only get up out of my chair and make it to my bed :)

An Ahhhhh moment

So today I was reading Mike Cope's blog and this is what he said:
"Yesterday I spoke at the funeral for one of our members, who died at the age of 92.

He’d been there on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Omaha Beach.

There are certain moments you experience only from the perspective the minister has. His wife of 72 years walked by the casket after everyone had left the sanctuary, patted him on the hand, and said, “I’ll see you later, Sweetheart.”

Can you imagine being married for 72 years!!!!! Just made me say "oh how sweet".
What a wonderful perpective, all confidence and security in knowing that she will be with him and probably very soon if he was 92, she must be close. May we all love our mates more and enjoy our years together, helping keep each other's eyes on the Lord so we can say at parting "see you later, Sweetheart."

Scipture Memorization, Part Two

First of all,let me say that I was really blessed by Ladies Bible Class today. We were camping out in Psalm 125. I dawned on me that I have never considered myself a strong mountain that cannot be shaken. I pray that I will not forget when times are hard what was again convicted in my heart today "God is good, All The Time!".

Now as promised yesterday, here is the rest of the article about scripture memorization that gave me some things to think about.

John Piper
"First, a few testimonies: I have it third hand, that Dr. Howard Hendricks (of Dallas Seminary) once made the statement (and I paraphrase) that if it were his decision, every student graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary would be required to learn one thousand verses word perfect before they graduated.
Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, "Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That's where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization" ("Spiritual Formation in Christ for the Whole Life and Whole Person" in Vocatio, Vol. 12, no. 2, Spring, 2001, p. 7).
Chuck Swindoll wrote, "I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified" (Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61).
One of the reasons Martin Luther came to his great discovery in the Bible of justification by faith alone was that in his early years in the Augustinian monastery he was influenced to love Scripture by Johann Staupitz. Luther devoured the Bible in a day when people earned doctorates in theology without even reading the Bible. Luther said that his fellow professor, Andreas Karlstadt, did not even own a Bible when he earned his doctor of theology degree, nor did he until many years later (www.orlutheran.com/html/luthbibl.html). Luther knew so much of the Bible from memory that when the Lord opened his eyes to see the truth of justification in Romans 1:17, he said, "Thereupon I ran through the Scriptures from memory," in order to confirm what he had found.
So here are a few reasons why so many have viewed Scripture memorization as so essential to the Christian life.
1. Conformity to Christ
Paul wrote that "we all... beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another." If we would be changed into Christ likeness we must steadily see him. This happens in the word. "The LORD revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the wordof the LORD" (1 Samuel 3:21). Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus to be steadier and clearer.
2. Daily Triumph over Sin
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word... I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:9, 11). Paul said that we must "by the Spirit... put to death the [sinful] deeds of the body" (Romans 8:13). The one piece of armor used to kill is the "sword of the Spirit," which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.
3. Daily Triumph over Satan
When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness he recited Scripture from memory and put Satan to flight (Matthew 4:1-11).
4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
The times when people need you to give them comfort and counsel do not always coincide with the times you have your Bible handy. Not only that, the very word of God spoken spontaneously from your heart has unusual power. Proverbs 25:11 says, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver." That is a beautiful way of saying, When the heart full of God's love can draw on the mind full of God's word, timely blessings flow from the mouth.
5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
Opportunities to share the gospel come when we do not have the Bible in hand. Actual verses of the Bible have their own penetrating power. And when they come from our heart, as well as from the Book, the witness is given that they are precious enough to learn. We should all be able to sum up the gospel under four main headings (1) God's holiness/law/glory; 2) man's sin/rebellion/disobedience; 3) Christ's death for sinners; 4) the free gift of life by faith. Learn a verse or two relating to each of these, and be ready in season and out of season to share them.
6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways
The way we commune with (that is, fellowship with) God is by meditating on his attributes and expressing to him our thanks and admiration and love, and seeking his help in living a life that reflects the value of these attributes. Therefore, storing texts in our minds about God helps us relate to him as he really is. For example, imagine being able to call this to mind through the day:
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. (Psalm 103:8-14)
I used the word "enjoyment" intentionally when I said, "communion with God in the enjoyment of his person and ways." Most of us are emotionally crippled -- all of us really. We do not experience God in the fullness of our emotional potential. How will that change? One way is to memorize the emotional expressions of the Bible and speak them to the Lord and to each other until they become part of who we are. For example, in Psalm 103:1, we say, "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!" That is not a natural expression for many people. But if we memorize this and other emotional expressions from the Bible, and say them often, asking the Lord to make the emotion real in our hearts, we can actually grow into that emotion and expression. It will become part of who we are. We will be less crippled emotionally and more able to render proper praise and thanks to God."

Scripture Memorization

I don't know about you, but the older I get the harder it seems for me to remember scripture. I don't think I have ever been very intentional about memorizing scripture for very long periods of time. I have come to realize over the past few years, how important scripture memory is. When you need to be assured of God's promises, there is nothing better than being able to remind yourself of the ones you know. For Ladies Bible Class we are suppose to be memorizing Psalm 121. I have about half of it memorized, but am having trouble putting the 2nd half together with it. But memorizing the first part is already blessing my soul.

I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

Today in my Bible study for Ladies Bible class Beth Moore made this statement about memorization, "scripture memory is like a spiritual bone marrow transplant." (see Hebrews 4:12) Wow! that really spoke to me, and reminded me of an email I had kept in my inbox from July 7th on a article by Don Piper about Scripture memorization. In that article he made six points which I will post tomorrow so as not to make this post so long, so tune back tomorrow.

Fall Envy

I know that we are not suppose to envy, but my brother Brent sent these pictures and I am envious of the turning of the Aspens in Colorado and that they are having to wear jackets! The girl is my brother's grandaughter Alyvia (the apple of her Grandy's eye)




I remember the few years I lived in Springhill, Tennessee and after being born and raised in El Paso, where we never had Fall, how mesmerized I was with the beautiful colors of red, orange and brown. One day I would love to go on a fall foilage tour.

Hey, those fall pictures really look pretty on the fall background of my blog :)

Sunday Snippets

I usually wait till the end of the day on Sunday to post in order to include all the things that God might do, including Life Group. But since Steve and I are
"in" for the night, I thought I would go ahead and post now. First of all, let me mention that I rented the "Last Sin Eater" from Netflix and we watched it last night. Michael Landon Jr. is the director and it is based on Francine River's book. It is a wonderful story of redemption and forgiveness and I recommend you rent it, with this caution, turn on the subtitles as the Irish brogue is difficult to understand.

I taught the 5th grade this morning. I really love this age. They are at such a critical point in their faith walk. It is fun taking the stories they are so familiar with and seeing if you can get them to apply the principles on a deeper level. So today it was Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

I have to be confessional and admit that I did not pay too much attention to the sermon today because I was enjoying being distracted by Haven Heflin. She was just so precious and kept smiling at me, so how could I not smile back. Then it came time for a bottle and her grandmother began feeding her. I was taken back by the love that oozed out of Cherie for her granddaughter, you could just see her face radiate as she stroked Haven's hair, and then she rubbed her toes and then picked them up and kissed them. I got tears in my eyes as I thought about "this is how much God loves me". The fact that I saw Cherie's delight in Haven and immediately knew that is the way God delights in me. It was a special moment.

During communion there were two grade school boys sitting behind me and I heard one say to the other "did that scare the crap out of you", don't know what was said next, but then I heard again "that would have scared the c**** out of me". So what would you have done? Easiest thing, just ignore it. Harder thing? After the last amen I just said "which one of you said c***", of course they both denied it until I said this is what I heard one of you say and then one boy said "that was me". I just said "c*** is not a very nice word to use anytime, but especially not a good word to be using during communion where people are thinking about Jesus' sacrifice for them. Just wanted you to think about that." Then I hugged them both. Don't know if confronting them was the right thing, it wasn't so much what they said but when they were saying it that I wanted them to think about.

Fireproof Your Marriage

Yesterday, Steve and I went to see the new movie Fireproof. It is from the same company that made Facing The Giants. While I don't think it will have the same universal appeal it was a good movie with a good message. It did show that God is able to restore any relationship if we just surrender and give Him control (in this case it was a marriage of a firefighter). Both Steve and I thought Kirk Cameron did a good job in the lead role. We were both impressed to read that Kirk refuses to kiss anyone but his wife (even in a movie)so they were able to use her as a body double. Isn't' it refreshing to know that someone will actually go against the flow and stand up for their own values?

I am impressed with the Sherwood Baptist church for continuing to try to share the message of Christ through movies. They don't just make the movie, get the money and go on, they actually create ministry around the movie. Go to www.fireproofyourmarriage.com and see all the resources that they have to help people manage the waters of marriage.

I loved that the main message of this movie was that we are able to love others with the love they don't deserve because we are loved with a love we don't deserve. Do I hear an amen?

So grab your spouse and go see this movie, I can guarantee that you will leave being more in love with each other and with a renewed spirit.

Before I close I just want to mention to that it was sad to hear that Paul Newman lost his fight with cancer. He and Joann were married 50 years, which is just an amazing fete in Hollywood! I am sure she is really missing her life partner.

Another Reveal

I am going out on a limb in making another post about homosexuality. A couple of weeks ago when I did this, some people took issue with my remarks and some agreed. I am not seeking to have people agree with me and I respect every one's opinions. I do think whatever our views, we need to present them in Christlike language and intent, and not an attack mode. I was recently reading a well known preacher's blog and the topic was politics. I could not believe the way that Christians were treating one another, over 200 people responded and most were not kind. We all have opinions and it is as it should be, but we must be able to state them in a way that honors God and shows love to one another. That being said, I am saddened once again, this time for Clay Aiken to publicly admit that he is a homosexual. I know we suspected it because he has always been evasive, but I for one held out hope that it was not so.

First of all let me ask why it is that "gay" is the common term we use now for homosexuality? I personally think it is to help sanitize it. So what new terms can we come up with for a murderer, an adulterer, a liar, a thief? As I said in my earlier post our call is to love all sinners, but it does not mean we are accepting of the sin.

I Cor 6:8-10 "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." God makes it pretty clear I think.

I have to be honest and admit I struggle with people I have liked who claim to be homosexual. I actually like Ellen's show and enjoy her humor. I know she is generous with her monies. I went to Clay's concert when he came to Dallas because I enjoy his voice and his music. There are other homosexuals that I have enjoyed their acting, singing, or whatever. If I go ahead and watch their shows, movies or listen to their music is that okay? I just asked Steve this a couple of days ago. How about movies or T.V. shows where heterosexuals portray homosexual characters? Should I be watching those?

Here is what Paul says:
I Corinthians 5:8-12 "I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people-not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. Expel the wicked man from among you."

I think the verses are saying it is going to be hard for us to get away from associating with homosexuals as long as we live in this world. However, if someone is claiming to be a brother or sister in Christ and is claiming to be sexually immoral then we are to not associate with that person. Thus, I don't think you can claim as Clay does to be a "born again Christian" and be a homosexual. There are over 15 different scriptures about sexual immorality. Would you define immorality as just relations before marriage or outside of marriage? I don't think so. Read Leviticus 18, one scripture after another about sexual immorality: fathers and daughters, mothers and sons, men and women with animals, son-in-laws with mother-in- laws, siblings, sister-in-laws, brothers-in-laws and on and on it goes. So if homosexuality is okay, where do we draw the line with all these others?

Another problem I have with Clay Aiken is that he had a child with his 50 year old manager. Granted they are saying it was through invitro but if this lady is his best friend and who he wants to be the mother of his child, and they will share living quarters, does it make sense to anyone else why they could not be married and just not have sexual relations?? Can homosexuals remain celibate?

I don't have all the answers just continue to question to how we got to this place?
What is my responsibility as a follower of Christ? I continue to beseech God to show me His way.

Purify My Heart

Today Steve and I were working out in the yard, He was putting in new lights in the flowerbeds and I was painting shutters. I was listening to my Ipod while I was painting and as I heard the song below, I could not think about the way the new coat of paint was making the shutters look and just as they would have a new look, that is what Jesus can do to my heart day after day, if I just surrender to Him.

I particularly could not help but think what my life would look like if the joy of my salvation was retored in my heart. Do you remember when you were first saved and the joy you had? I think along the journey I have taken that joy and my salvation for granted, and I am in need of restoration. I am thankful for my loving God who does not just wash me clean once, but promises that the blood of His son will continually cleanse me from all my sin.

Put a new right spirit here within me
Purify my heart, purify my heart
Restore the joy of your salvation
Purify my heart, purify my heart
Wash me Lord and I will be clean.

Have mercy on me Lord according to your love
Take every sin and fault away from me
Longing to be whole again
Sanctify my soul again and I will be free

Against I have I done what is evil in your sight
You would be so right to cast me out
But let these wretched bones walk in steps of holy hope
Return me to you now

I will teach your ways of deliverance
to hearts yearning for true love
My tongue will ever praise your presence,
present to me now

If you want you can listen to the song by David Kauffman here:(sorry in this new layout I cannot figure out why links don't work, so you will have to copy and paste in your browser)
www.imeem.com/groups/wKXTlObH/music/eMDn4mE-/david_kauffman_purify_my_heart/

CAREcorp

Our church has a ministry called CAREcorp that offers help to those in need. We help with rent, utilities, etc. and give bags of food. You listen to so many sad stories of where people are in life. Today I took a phone call from a 67 year old lady that sounded desperate because they were going to turn off her electricity but we were not able to help her because she did not live in a zipcode that we service.

I always come home from CAREcorp depressed that I do not personally have the finances to help the people that come. When you know there are so many millionaires that just one of their millions would go so far in helping some of these people. The most the church gives them is $150.00. Sometimes that is enough to get them out of the bind, but most times it is just a drop in the bucket. I always have this struggle between compassion and judgement. Today, when a client's electricity bill was $954.00, I wanted to ask if she had thought of turning her air up and trying a few fans? Then on the other extreme we had a lady that was trying to get money for her October rent and had canceled her cell phone in order to have some extra money. If you think about praying for her, she has two job interviews this week.

I know the Bible tells us there will always be poor. Deuteronomy 15:11
"There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land."

Matthew 26:11
"The poor you will always have with you."

I can only assume that those verse are true because those of us that have more are not willing to share enough. So many people tithe thinking they have done their share, but God never meant for the tithe to be the standard of giving. It was the minimal to give.

The food pantry at RE is really low. I hope that those of you that are reading this who can will help fill it. It is hard to apologize to people who come to us for help telling them we don't have much food. We could use all kinds of soup and boxed dinners and tuna(there is quite a bit of canned vegetables and fruit)

Too, please pray that the Lord will open all of our eyes to the needs of the poor and our hearts to the sacrifices we might need to make to help their lives be better.

Proverbs 21:13
If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.

New Daniel Insights

In today's daily Bible reading I saw something I don't remember seeing before. I feel silly saying that as I bet you all will say "I knew that" but I don't remember seeing before the King Darius did not want to put Daniel in the Lion's Den. But guess he had to because he made the decree. What I didn't know is that he trusted that the God of Daniel would keep Daniel safe. Then he was not able to eat or sleep because of his worry for Daniel. He then went very early in the morning and called out to Daniel, "Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God that you serve continually been able to rescue you from the lions?" When Daniel replied and told him an angel had shut the mouth of the lions he was overjoyed. He then made this decree:
"In every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdome will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He resuces and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions."

Unfortunately, Darius' devotion was very short lived and the people did not worship God. Made me take inventory of how short lived my own affections are some times. God shows up and does something amazing and how soon do I forget?

Sunday Snippets

One of my best blessings of being on staff at Richardson East was getting to work side by side with Kerry Miller. Kerry was a great mentor. He held me accountable and helped me to strive for excellence in ministry. I have missed him and today it was a blessing to get to have lunch with him and just catch up on life. I am thankful that the Lord is blessing he and Pam in Malibu.

I went back into the 5th grade classroom this morning and will be co-teaching in there for a while. It is no secret that I love hugs and I am blessed to get a lot of them, but none ever warm my heart more than one from a 5th grade boy because it is just not cool at that age. But thankyou Aaron Troutt for that great unsolicited hug today. It made my day.

Today was the first time in a while I connected with worship, it is hard not to when all you are doing is singing about God's holiness.

John had a good sermon but don't know that there were any "aha" moments for me, just good reminders that we are the reflection of Christ and most times all non-christians will know about Christianity is what they know of me. It was special getting to hear Jordan and Emily Swim speak about their time in Thailand and Peru this summer and the ways they encountered God's presence.

Was looking forward to having a discussion on demons at Life Group tonight, but the person that brought up the question last week was not there so we tabled it until they can be there.

Last night we enjoyed an authentic Honduran meal as a fundraiser for the mission trip next summer. It was very spicy but good. I had never had Tres Leches cake...yummm.

Ran into Kent Hill at the resturant today, he was in town from Colorado and it was good to see him. He was sweet and told me to keep blogging. It does help from time to time to know that people don't think I just babble on and on :)

Everyone have a blessed week! Yea! Tomorrow starts my favorite season of the year!

Favorite Movies

Today I got to watch one of my favorite movies AGAIN, Everafter. I just love this movie. I don't know how many times this makes that I have watched this movie. Why is it when we really like a movie we can watch it over and over and never get tired of it?

So...I would love to have a bunch of comments to this post and for you to tell me what your favorite movie is and why.

On the subject of movies I have four codes for anyone to try NETFLIX free for a month. They are good until October 31st. If you sign up using one of the codes, I get an extra movie free. I really like NETFLIX because it is so easy. I only use the $9.95 plan and get one movie at a time but when I mail it back it only takes two days to get the next one in my queue. Here are the codes if you are interested. Just go to www.netflix.com/tellafriend and use one of these codes:
M34960392355
M64290592595
M4220592285
M34230592685

Amazing Singer

I really enjoy amazing musical talent. I am really enjoying Donald Braswell on America's Got Talent. I like his voice and his humility. This week on Oprah there was a 16 year old girl named Charice that was just amazing. She then was invited to sing a duet with Celine Dion at Madison Square Garden, they showed it on Oprah today, but thanks to Youtube, if you missed Oprah you can listen to her here:



Then, in looking on Youtube I found her singing with Andrea Bocelli one of my favorite songs The Prayer.



Hope everyone has a GREAT weekend!!

Reader's Digest

Every month I look forward to getting our new issue of Reader's Digest. I like the humorous stories but I also really like the articles because they are about ordinary people just like me. Today I read an article about a guy name Chip Paillex who started out seven years ago by planting a garden on a 30-by-30 plot. he planted tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers and eggplant--enough to feed his family of four, but he ended up with so much, he could not even give it away. But he found a local food pantry and by the time he delivered his last harvest, he had donated 120 pounds of fresh vegetables. The following year, with a handful of volunteers from his church,and some donated land he harvested 1,500 pounds of vegetables he donated to food banks. This year he had close to 1,000 volunteers and found some farmers to donated land. His church families would volunteer and a couple families would take one week and tend to the garden, weeding, watering, pruning and delivering the vegetables. It grew to 250,000 lbs of donated vegetables. Now a 3rd and 4th grade class is volunteering in the garden and planting seeds. Paillex stated "the program exposes kids to the idea that there are people in need and it plants the seed for giving back."

I just thought this was a great story of how God gives the increase, and how others were blessed not by just getting to eat fresh vegetables, but by actually working in the garden. Made me wish I had room for a garden in my backyard.

Hurricane Evacuees

Today I was blessed to buy some hygiene items to take to some Hurricane evacuees. We got an email yesterday that the evacuees at the Samuel Grand Shelter did not have shower facilities and needed some hygiene items. Our church wanted to respond, so my friend Terry and I went to the Dollar Tree and stocked up on many items lik wipes, toothpaste, deoderant, lotion, hand sanitizer, etc. When we got to the shelter we were told that they were transfering the last of the people to the Dallas Convention Center and that if we wanted to we could take the items there. I decided since there were 1400 people at the convention center and we had bought quantities of 100 that it might not be that helpful, so I made a call to the Huffines Recreation Center here in Richardson and asked if they still had evacuees and if so could they use the items. They said yes, they still had 110 people. So it was nice to be able to help out right here in our neighborhood.

It as something to see people just sitting on cots. Can you imagine 24/7 being confined in one room with 100 other people with your personal space being a cot? I told Steve (who also went with us) when we left that I can't imagine being in their shoes and not having family or friends that could take them in instead of having to go to a shelter. Then, I couldn't help but wonder how do you pass the time all day?
The staff that were there helping to take care of these people were very kind. Local restuarants are catering in the food. Tonight someone was giving them a bar-b-que.

So after you read this post, please say a prayer for those that are still dislocated. It must be hard enough not to know the state of your home or when or if you might return. But life in the shelter cannot be optimal. I do think the people at Huffines are blessed to be where there are only 100 of them than down at the Convention Center with 1400 others.

Sad News

I was really sad to read yesterday that Contemporary Christian Singer,Ray Boltz,is saying he is practicing a homosexual lifestyle. Boltz said in an interview in the Washington Blade, "If this is the way God made me, then this is the way I’m going to live...I really feel closer to God because I no longer hate myself." Ray had been married 33 years and has 4 children. I just find that so sad. I have several Ray Boltz CD's and especially like his songs Watch the Lamb and The Anchor Holds.

So...I am not sure that I understand how if he always thought God made him that way, he could remain married for 33 years? But the biggest question of all is why homosexuals think God would create them into a condition that he blatantly condemns?
1 Corinthians 6:9, Romans 1:26-32, Leviticus 18:22 It just goes to show how great the "father of lies" is, in that he has continued to desensitize our conscience to this issue where more and more we accept homosexuality as an alternative lifestyle as opposed to calling sin, sin. Now, don't misunderstand me, homosexuality is no worse sin than any other sin, and it is a forgiveable sin just like any other, but because it is sin it is not from God or a result of the way God created anyone. If so, He is a cruel God and I know that is not so.

Today I was flipping channels and heard Ellen DeGeneres announce she is the new face for Cover Girl???? Why would Covergirl chose a woman who dresses like a man and is a practicing homosexual to represent them? I just don't understand.

I am going to step out here and make another political comment. Anyone voting for Obama is voting for someone who is going to promote the homosexual lifestyle even though he doesn't agree with it (as he stated in his Saddleback interview). However, he doesn't think the government should regulate it and will be advocating that homosexuals be allowed to be married in whatever states deem it legal. I think it behooves us all to remember that God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because their homosexual practices had become so bad. Let us pray that all eyes will be open to God's truth in regards to homosexuality. May He show us how to reach out to that community in His love but stand up against it when we can and not just consider it as acceptable behavior. I applaud people like Dennis Jernigan who have turned from the homosexual lifestyle and are testimonies of God's amazing grace to those who submit to Him in obedience.

More Thoughts On Job

I had some great Bible study this morning. First in Job and then doing my lessons for Ladies Bible Class. We are doing Stepping Up by Beth Moore on the Psalms of Ascent and she just has such great insights.

In reading Job, it doesn't take long to realize that as bad as I might think things are, for me they have never gotten to this point:

Job 19:7-20
"Though I cry, 'I've been wronged!' I get no response;
though I call for help, there is no justice.
He has blocked my way so I cannot pass;
he has shrouded my paths in darkness.
He has stripped me of my honor
and removed the crown from my head.
He tears me down on every side till I am gone;
he uproots my hope like a tree.
His anger burns against me;
he counts me among his enemies.
His troops advance in force;
they build a siege ramp against me
and encamp around my tent.
"He has alienated my brothers from me;
my acquaintances are completely estranged from me.
My kinsmen have gone away;
my friends have forgotten me.
My guests and my maidservants count me a stranger;
they look upon me as an alien.
I summon my servant, but he does not answer,
though I beg him with my own mouth.
My breath is offensive to my wife;
I am loathsome to my own brothers.
Even the little boys scorn me;
when I appear, they ridicule me.
All my intimate friends detest me;
those I love have turned against me.
I am nothing but skin and bones;
I have escaped with only the skin of my teeth."

And yet, see what he says just a few verses later.

Job 19:25-27
"I know that my Redeemer lives,
and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.
And after my skin has been destroyed,
yet in my flesh I will see God;
I myself will see him
with my own eyes—I, and not another.
How my heart yearns within me!"

Job knew what David knew in Psalms 121:
"I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore."

Father God, may I come to know you and live life with the faith of Job and David.

Sunday Snippets

So where did this day go?? Can't believe it is already over.

We had a good discussion in Bible Class this morning about Jesus' attitude toward the poor. It is during these kind of discussions that my heart is convicted that I am not even close to living the way the Lord has called me to live. Luke 14:12-14 says "Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." So when have I ever had a party like this one?

Then, don't you wish you part of a church like described in Acts 2:32-34? "All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need."

There is something to be said for small community. I think most of us don't experience this in community because we don't know each other well enough to know what each other's needs are. But more than that we don't view our property as "not our own". We do good at donating our left overs, but I know I am guilty of not giving away my "things" to help the poor. Today's class gave me a lot to think about.

Then in John's sermon he quoted Neil Anderson from his book Victory Over Darkness.
"It is not what we do that determines who we are, it is who we are that determines what we do...We don't follow Him to be loved, we are loved so we follow Him. To live the victorious Christian life you have to believe what is already true about you."

It is pretty humbling to think that anywhere we are, we are potentially on Holy Ground.

Everyone have a great week. I close with the chorus of a new song we sang today. May it be the prayer of us all as we live out our call this week.

Let us be You, when a wounded soul cries out for hope.
Let us be You, when the lonely need to know they're not alone.
Just as your stars pierce through the night, let us forever shine Your light.
Let us be You, Let us be You on this earth.

God Doesn't Get The Credit

Second time within two weeks that hurricanes were not near as devastating as predicted, yet you don't hear any media coverage where God is being praised for His mercy. Interesting how He seems to get the blame for bad things, or people question "where was God", but when He does show up and answer the prayers of all of us who were asking for the protection of those on the coast, no one seems to give Him credit for that? So hopefully you and I will give Him the praise for our answered prayers.

Watched the movie "Bella" tonight. It was a sweet movie with themes of family, friendship and forgiveness. In the "behind the scene" section they explain some of the reasons for making the film. One goal was to portray Mexican Americans in a positive light. The director said doing a movie with values was more important than money and fame. I found that refreshing. In the middle of the movie they play the song "I Am Thine Oh Lord" and the reason it was interesting because it was just playing in the background of a city scene. But the comment by the director that caught my attention was "if you want to make God laugh, make plans".

Hollywood Politics

After you read my ranting you are going to say "why doesn't she just turn the T.V. off?" Good question!!

I am so tired of the political climate on television right now. Perhaps it has always been as bad as it is right now, but it just seems worse to me.
All of us are not going to agree on who will be the best next president and I understand that, but I am not sure why the media cannot present an unbiased look? In my opinion Charles Gibson (who I like and watch every night) was doing his best to drill Sarah Palin and catch her in a misspoken word. I thought he outright harassed her on some questions.

Then did anyone see Matt Damon and his comments? His objection to Palin is she is not experienced enough to take over as President if John McKay dies (as actuarial information predicts he is 3x more likely to do so). First of all is anyone else tired of Hollywood personalities speaking out as political analyst? Just because they have a public forum we have to listen to their comments? I emailed Matt Damon and asked him to explain to me how less than 2 years in the Senate makes his candidate more qualified to move into the White house in 6 months?? And also told him I would be boycotting his movies in the future. I am really sure that matters to him :0

Then there was PDiddy when he said there were "no blacks or crackheads in Alaska"?? What was he trying to say or prove? They showed there are actually more African Americans living in Alaska than in New Jersey where he currently lives. (this is from the man who has five children but has never been married?) Anyway...I know I shouldn't throw stones. I just wish they didn't get the press time.

Then did you hear today that a democrat Steve Cohen said that "Jesus was a community organizer and Pilate was a governor?" Guess he wasn't the originator of the comment, but nevertheless don't know why there has to be so many negative comments instead of focusing on the facts. In advertising, why don't both parties focus on what they will do instead of telling us what the other party won't do? I said it a few weeks ago and I will repeat it, I just wish we could get rid of both parties and start over!!

This was part of a Rueters article today:
"Democratic candidates have long enjoyed a fundraising advantage in Hollywood. Through the end of July, Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama raised $5.2 million from the entertainment industry, compared with McCain's $885,000, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.

"It's like 10 to 1 here in terms of performing artists who support Obama versus McCain. There are a significant group of Republican supporters in Hollywood, but they're just not as outspoken," said political analyst Allan Hoffenblum

Hollywood is aligning again for Obama on September 16 when Barbra Streisand will sing at a Beverly Hills event expected to raise as much as $9 million."

Found those statistics to be very interesting and perhaps something I should be thinking about the next time I give them our money by watching their movies???

Finally, let me just say why are reporters so stupid? Are we so hungry for reality that they have to stand out in the middle of a hurricane and tell us what is going on? They have a mandatory evacuation, but reporters still stay and report from outside? makes no sense to me!

Okay, I apologize that this was a rather negative post. I will try to stay off the political topic in future posts, but did just have to vent tonight.

Why Can't I Be Like Job?

Today in our daily Bible reading we are in Job. First of all I am thinking, who wrote Job because of all the speeches by Job and his friends and then God, did someone write all those words as they were being spoken or did the Holy Spirit just remind them of them all once they got to writing? Looked it up and guess they don't really know who wrote it.

Anyway...today some things struck me in the reading. It struck me that Satan appears before God and then is given permission to attack Job and is directly responsible for the attack, but no one recognizes the attack being from Satan but thinks God is punishing Job for his sins. So the accusations are against God, not against Satan. It made me wonder how we actually know whether our attacks are from God or Satan. Yesterday when I was working Carecorp, one of the clients was having to have all her teeth pulled and said "Satan just must not want me to have any teeth". But we do have biblical text that tells us that God disciplines us and that He sends trials in order to grow us. In the end it probably doesn't matter as long as God gets the victory when we just praise Him regardless of our circumstances.

Job is so confident that he is sinless. I couldn't help but wonder about my own life and whether I would think I could say to the Lord, "let's meet face to face and you tell me what I have done wrong, because I think I can defend myself to you". Regardless of what I think of Job's friends and their advice the fact of the matter is they sat with him for 7 days and 7 nights without saying a word at first. I have never even sat with a friend for an hour with my mouth shut, much less 7 days. Perhaps there is a lesson for me there as just presence can be comforting without words.

Then here Job is, he lost all of his wealth, and now is writhing in pain with leprosy, but he still has wit. After his friends give him useless advice he says "If only you would be altogether silent, for you that would be wisdom." I don't know that in his shoes I could be thinking on my feet like that.

But it is no surprise that the thing that always touches my heart about Job is His faith in God. Here are some of the statements in today's reading that I wish I could say:

"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised."

"Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"

"Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal."

"He will fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy."

"Who can say to Him, 'What are you doing?'"

"Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him."

After several weeks of not particularly reading about the measurements of the temple and some of Ezekiel's prophecies, I am actually looking forward to the next few days of readings in Job, because his spirit always inspires me.

Fact Check

I don't know about you but one of the things I hate about politics and politicians is all the attack campaigns. One party/candidate says one thing and then the other denies it. Or one thing gets reported or blown out of proportion. So if you are like me and don't know what to believe then you will also appreciate this site, if you don't already know about it. www.factcheck.org
You can sign up and they will email you anytime they have made a discovery. They seem to me to be giving equal time to both parties.

I also enjoyed watching a video of a talk Sarah Palin gave a graduating class. I found it refreshing to know that she knows she must seek God's will in her decisions. I only wish she had talked more about her faith in her speech. Also, wouldn't it be nice for the candidates who profess to be Christians to actually include a prayer in their speech? To me it would mean so much more than them all saying "God bless America". If you want to watch the video, you can find it at:
www.onenewsnow.com/Election2008/Default.aspx?id=239968

Sorry, this new blog format for some reason doesn't let me do links?? So hopefully you can cut and paste :)

I Love To Laugh

Anyone remember that song from Mary Poppins?


I just thought we all needed to laugh a little today, so here are some of the best jokes from this month's Reader's Digest. They listed their 50 most popular.

"We were really confused. While transcribing medical audiotapes, a colleague came upon the following garbled diagnosis: "This man has pholenfrometry." Knowing nothing about that condition, she double-checked with the doctor. After listening to the tape, he shook his head. 'This man' he said, translating for her 'has fallen from a tree.'"

"Hospital regulations require a wheelchair for patients being discharged. However, I found an elderly gentleman already dressed and sitting on the bed with a suitcase at his feet who insisted he didn't need my help to leave the hospital. After a chat about rules being rules he reluctantly let me wheel him to the elevator. On the way down, I asked if his wife was meeting him. 'I don't know', he said, 'She's still upstairs in the bathroom changing out of her hospital gown.'"

"While I was shopping in a pharmacy, a couple of teenagers came in. They were dressed in leather, chains, and safety pins. The boy had blue and purple spiked hair and the girl's hair was bright yellow. Suddenly the boy picked up a pair of sunglasses and tried them on. 'What do you think', he asked his girlfriend. 'Take them off!' she howled, 'They make you look ridiculous.'"

"Walter goes to do his laundry. But within seconds of stepping into the laundry room, he yells out, 'Honey, what setting do I use on the washing machine?' 'It depends,' his wife answered. 'What does it say on your shirt?' 'University of Wisconsin.'"

"A little boy opened the big family Bible.
He was fascinated as he fingered through the old pages.
Suddenly something fell out of the Bible.
He picked up the object and looked at it closely.
What he saw was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages. 'Momma, look what I found,' the boy called out. 'What have you got there, dear?' his mother asked.
With astonishment in the young boy's voice, he answered: 'I think it's Adam's underwear!'"

Okay...not the greatest. Why don't you leave me a joke and give me a laugh :)