Canvas Rhapsody

Moving

2009-10-09T17:27:00.005-04:00

We have decided to move our little blog from Blogger to Wordpress. For most of you, this will change very little. Your email subscriptions should stay the same. But, please, let us know if you are having any trouble. If you have us bookmarked, just change the setting to http://canvasfellowship.wordpress.com.

We look forward to seeing you over at Wordpress. Thank you for your continued support of Canvas Rhapsody.

Jesus Is Coming

2009-10-01T12:03:00.000-04:00

Urgency. Preparedness. Anticipation. Excitement. Purpose.

^{2 Peter 3:8-9}Don't overlook the obvious here, friends. With God, one day is as good as a thousand years, a thousand years as a day. God isn't late with his promise as some measure lateness. He is restraining himself on account of you, holding back the End because he doesn't want anyone lost. He's giving everyone space and time to change.

¹⁰But when the Day of God's Judgment does come, it will be unannounced, like a thief. The sky will collapse with a thunderous bang, everything disintegrating in a huge conflagration, earth and all its works exposed to the scrutiny of Judgment.
^11-13Since everything here today might well be gone tomorrow, do you see how essential it is to live a holy life? Daily expect the Day of God, eager for its arrival. The galaxies will burn up and the elements melt down that day—but we'll hardly notice. We'll be looking the other way, ready for the promised new heavens and the promised new earth, all landscaped with righteousness.

God knew me before I was born.

God has a plan for my life.

God is waiting patiently on me.

God is coming back for me.

Grace really is a beautiful thing.

Be Still

2009-09-30T11:44:00.005-04:00

^{Psalm 46:10} "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."

Being weak and trusting God in difficult situations can be the most I ever ask of myself. It is hard to stop moving and dodging the punches that are being thrown at me. What if....just for a moment..... I stopped trying to defend myself and prove myself and hold still long enough for God to defend me? What if I stopped wanting all the glory and I gave it to God? What if I stopped controlling it all and really see what God's plan is? There isn't anything that I can do better than God can do.

It's time to know the promises of God, it is time to trust in His word and know Him. It is time to be still. He is with us.

Psalm 46
¹ God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
² Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
³ though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
Selah
⁴ There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
⁵ God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
⁶ Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
⁷ The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
⁸ Come and see the works of the LORD,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
⁹ He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear,
he burns the shields with fire.
¹⁰ "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."
¹¹ The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah

Shifting Gears: Fight

2009-09-10T13:42:00.003-04:00

Who? How? When? With what? If the battle is inevitable are we prepared to break down the walls so that we can fight? It is hard for me to grasp the idea of breaking down my walls. I spent a lot of my life building them, putting each peace perfectly in place to keep things out and protect myself from the things I don't want in. These walls, they make it impossible for me to claim the promises of God in my life.

Right now, in my life, there is a battle brewing. I know it is coming. Instead of preparing like I should I feel like I am looking for more bricks to pile on my wall. In my heart I know that if I am following God's word I have to break this down. It is hard when a life time of fear and lack of confidence has built itself up. Then, there is this pesky need I have of never upsetting anyone. I know, you can't please everyone but no reason to pick fights, right?!! Okay, that is entirely wrong. We are called to fight, to carry our crosses, to stand on God's Word, to make a difference for our God's Glory. How do I do that if I am closed in a perfect wall?

I don't know where you are at. I am sure you have a wall of your own that needs to be torn down. Where do we begin? Read the Word, I think we need to know His promises in order to be filled with hope. Worship and Music to fill our hearts with the joy that comes from singing His praises. Prayer and Relationship, if we want God to go before us in our battles we should be talking to Him about it.

^{Mark 4:18-20}Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown."

It is time to make a plan. Be ready for the battle that is coming. Remember that your plan is Plan B. God knows what lays ahead and His plan is your Plan A. Be obedient to the process. And one more little piece of advice, don't do it alone.

Shifting Gears: Move

2009-09-03T18:33:00.000-04:00

Do you every wonder why God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son? I do. I wonder, if God knows our hearts, wouldn't he have known that Abraham would do whatever He asked?

Take a look at Joshua. He saw the terrible battles he was about to fight. God led them right to it. God could have taken away all of the struggle and sacrifice, if he wanted to.

Why doesn't he?

I am not going to pretend to be a super-theologian here but I will tell you that from my perspective God wants us to know what we are capable of, he wants us to move. If He did it all for us, we wouldn't accomplish a thing, we wouldn't learn the thrill of accomplishment or the reliance on God that only comes from times of struggle.

It seems to me that the works-in-progress that we are needs to grow in faith by needing more faith. We only find how patient we truly are when we are tested beyond our abilities. We discover that only with God's strength are we capable of overcoming are greatest battles. Sacrifice and joy becomes words we cherish because we know what we are capable of surviving when we have them. And on the occasion that we loose a battle, we learn that God is going to comfort and guide and protect us.

Life will bring you to the battles, big and small. Do you know that God is going with you? He is.

Psalm 18:28-32
²⁸ You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning;
my God turns my darkness into light.
²⁹ With your help I can advance against a troop;
with my God I can scale a wall.
³⁰ As for God, his way is perfect;
the word of the LORD is flawless.
He is a shield
for all who take refuge in him.
³¹ For who is God besides the LORD ?
And who is the Rock except our God?
³² It is God who arms me with strength
and makes my way perfect.

Shifting Gears: Stand

2009-09-01T20:01:00.005-04:00

How are you? How is life treating you?

Things have been a bit hectic for us lately. Mostly, attempting to find some sort of routine in our daily chaos. It gets easier to compromise this and that as the schedule gets more full. It may be silly but I have always done my best to make time and actually schedule in one night a week when we have no obligations. It has always been catch up night, a few hours to spend just us, being us.

I get frustrated when people tell me that I need to choose my battles. Life is just going to get busy and as the kids get older, I guess, I am suppose to just understand that they won't be able to be home one night a week. I am going to do my best to not get on a soap box about my own personal need to stand but I want you to know something.....

.....it seems that people don't like it when you take a stand for something important to you. They want to knock it down and make fun of it. They will tell you, you are too stubborn, too tough, too moralistic, yada yada yada....

So, maybe family night seems like a ridiculous stand to make, but to me I only have a short time to help grow and nurture them. I only have a few moments to let them know I love them and for me that is something worth standing up for.

What is it in your life that you make a stand for? The list could be endless, but you have to have something. Something worth the fight, if necessary.

^{1 Corinthians 16:13-14}Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.

Breakdown: The Law of God

2009-08-26T13:22:00.005-04:00

How do you know what is right and what is wrong? How do you know what is on that perfect line in the middle?

People say that the 10 Commandments are irrelevant, old fashioned. Really?!! For those of you that think they need to change or they are just asking too much, tell me....How do you know what is right and what is wrong? I know that I can justify my behaviors. This is okay, because...well, because I say so.....It is easy to draw the line in the sand for ourselves and gradually move it to fit our needs and desires.

The greatest part of 10 Commandments is that of all the rules and regulations we follow in our life times, they are the only one's that point us into relationship with God. They show us His jealousy, His desire to be in every part of lives, His hope for family, His desire for strong marriages. He even honors us with a commanded day of rest.

Take a moment and ask yourself....Do I make the Laws of God relevant in my own life? Are they the standard by which I choose to make all of the things in my life right or wrong? Or am I the only one setting my standards?

Matthew 22: 36- 40 "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Breakdown: The Law of Moses

2009-08-20T18:17:00.002-04:00

I could be considered a dictator. Sometimes my rules can be so ridiculous. I have the best of intentions at heart. I am really just trying to protect and guide my children the best I know how.

Sometimes I am so set on them following the rules that I get furious when they seem intentional about breaking them. I have to admit that my own parenting style lacks tremendously in the grace and mercy example. I love my kids and in my heart I am trying to love them by keeping them protected. I don't think they see it that way.

There are undoubtedly rules that shouldn't be broken and life lessons I should be showing my girls. But, there are also the rules I set to dictate certain behaviors and patterns in their lives. I forget to be lenient. I forget that people make mistakes. I forget that my own children need to know that when it goes wrong, they are forgiven.

Thankfully, our Father is a much more merciful, forgiving parent.

^{Romans 8: 1-4}There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

Paradox: Tree

2009-08-12T13:37:00.003-04:00

Psalm 1:3
He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.

I love being outdoors. It reminds me of God's infinite creativity. No matter where I have been I am amazed that He could have thought of one more thing just a little more beautiful or different as the last. One of my favorite analogies in scripture is of trees. Of faithful, righteous people being referred to as trees. There couldn't be a more beautiful picture of character and strength.

While the similar traits of trees and faithful men such as places of shelter, refuge, comfort, protection and fruit go hand in hand, it is the differences of each individual that truly speaks of God's majesty. Be it an oak, a mighty Redwood, a Palm or even a Joshua tree, each one is perfectly unique. Each one created for a very specific place while all provide shelter and fruit.

Often times we assume a man or woman should look or be a certain way to fit into a Christian mold. We are overlooking the very fact that each unique individual provides the exact shelter, comfort, protection and fruit for the very place God created them to be in.

What type of tree are you? Are you strong enough to be shelter, fed enough to bear the fruit God intends for your life?

Jeremiah 17: 7,8
But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose confidence is in him.
⁸ He will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit."

Paradox: Water

2009-07-06T08:43:00.006-04:00

Water is not very controversial. No one debates it's importance for life on this big blue ball we all live on. In fact, when 70.8% of the Earth is covered with water it is easy to take it for granted. I wonder if most kids these days even know that water comes from some place other than a bottle.
Despite it's comfortable seat in the midst of our culture and society, water has had a sorted past when it come to spirituality. Even within the text of the Bible water has carried different meanings, in and of itself, as well as, they way humanity relates to it. In Matthew 27:24, Pilate washed his hands in a basin of water as he removed himself from the decision making process of what would happen to Jesus. His unwillingness to act made him as guilty as the mobs that put Jesus on the cross. He committed indirect murder because of his selfish act deflection.
We can see the antithesis of Pilate's actions in another basin of water, as Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. In John 13 we see a selfless act of love as Jesus humbled himself before those that followed him. He not only served those around them, but he also challenged them to follow his example of servant hood and humility. What an awesome picture of grace and responsibility.
I believe that we all stand at a basin of water every day. We have the choice to serve others or ourselves. One decision follows the example of the of a man that gave himself for those he loved. The other decision follows our human nature that is founded in selfishness and self preservation. Could what we do with our hands change a life or take one? Do we engage in indirect murder when we choose to not act. Pilate found solace in the fact that he did not pull the trigger, and we are not much different. I believe that in this day and age we must stand up and choose selflessness over selfishness. We must make a choice and act, instead of doing nothing. Love: Serve: Change

John 13:12-15
When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, "Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.

~Nick R.

Prison Break: Deliverance

2009-05-17T20:35:00.004-04:00

Romans 6:23 ²³For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

It is hard to believe that anyone would choose to live in a prison. It is even stranger to think that being in prison can be so comfortable that it begins to feel safe.

One of my favorite movies is Shawshank Redemption. There is a man in the movie by the name of Brooks who after a lifetime of prison living and loosing any hope of parole is set free. He has spent all of his life making his prison home. The process of being free actually fills him with so much fear that he commits suicide.

I think that often times I want the process of deliverance to be easy, comfortable. I want the change from death to life to be dramatic and instantaneous and as painless as possible. Truth is, it is easier to make myself at home in the comfort of my prison. It is easier to live complacent than it is to live in freedom.

Freedom requires a response from me. In the movie we later see another man, Red who is given the same opportunity after 40 years of living in prison. He goes out with the same doubts and fears. Somewhere in the midst of the changes Red moves. "Get busy living or get busy dying." Red chose life.

Today and everyday we are given an opportunity to live freely in the gift of grace that has been given us. But that deliverance requires us to move and to know that it is a process. God's process of perfection.

2 Corinthians 1:10-11 He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.

Prison Break: PSA

2009-04-28T21:40:00.002-04:00

Penal
Substitutionary
Atonement

........there was a penalty to be paid for my sin
........Jesus took my place on the cross
........Jesus reconciled me.

What for?

our sins, our infirmities (Isaiah 53:4)
peace, healing (Isaiah 53:5)
intercession (Isaiah 53:12)
sins, justification (Romans 4:25)
love (Romans 5:8)
bring us to God (1 Peter 3:18)
sins of the world (1 John 2:2)
redemption (Galatians 3:13)

Prison Break: Commitment

2009-04-15T12:47:00.004-04:00

Lives full of Commitment and yet we are not really committed to anything. Sometimes life becomes the list of responsibilities and has no clear purpose. Do you ever find yourself living in the line between a life that serves God and a life that longs to be accepted by everyone around you?

I do. It is hard to stick to the identity I want. I want to be a follower of Christ and yet I have all this stuff I hold onto.

Luke 9: 57-62 As they were going along the road, someone said to Him, "I will follow You wherever You go." And Jesus said to him, "The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head." And He said to another, "Follow Me." But he said, "Lord, permit me first to go and bury my father." But He said to him, "Allow the dead to bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim everywhere the kingdom of God." Another also said, "I will follow You, Lord; but first permit me to say good-bye to those at home." But Jesus said to him, "No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." (emphasis mine)

How do we do it? How do we make the commitment? How do we stop hitting the easy button and fall back on our old patterns? How do I make the first thing on my mind the Kingdom of God?

Today, when I ask myself who I am, I am going to answer and say a Christian.

Today, when I ask myself what I am going to do, I am going to answer Serve God.

Today, when I ask myself how am I going to live, I am going to say Following Christ.

and

Tomorrow, when I ask myself who I am, I am going to answer and say a Christian.

Tomorrow, when I ask myself what I am going to do, I am going to answer Serve God.

Tomorrow, when I ask myself how am I going to live, I am going to say Following Christ.

Hopefully with a little accountability from the Body and lots of prayer, my patterns with change and I will stop living in the in between and I will choose to commit to who I truly am in Christ.

Awakening: Confidence

2009-04-04T20:31:00.000-04:00

"Your failure doesn't define you."

People that inspire me are the ones that step out in faith not knowing the outcome. They are contagious people. The ones you want to be around in hopes that some of their genius will inadvertently fall on you. Maybe if you rub shoulders or give a side hug their energy will actually be absorbed. After having coffee with them I go and do something I haven't had the courage to do in months. These people are defined by their faith.

I have a friend who loves Africa. She is leaving for Kenya in 8 weeks and is taking her entire family. She started making plans to go the minute she had stepped off the plane from her trip to Uganda. She didn't know the details, she just knows she needs to be serving in Africa. God has pulled her entire trip together. I know Kenya will change her life and her boys and her husband. I admire her journey. I admire her faith to stick through the struggles of the last two years. I admire her focus. And, I admire her days of unbelief when she calls for prayer and support.

I will hold each moment of her journey that she shared with me. Not because the journey was perfect but because she believed that God would answer the desires of her heart. Janell will always be defined by her faith. Not by the trips she takes or doesn't take. But simply because she trusts in the One to fulfill His promises to her.

I challenge you to find someone that lives a life confident not on their own strength but in the power of God. They are contagious and if you are ready, it will change your life too.

Hebrews10:35-39 Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the
will of God, you may receive what was promised.
FOR YET IN A VERY LITTLE WHILE,
HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME, AND WILL NOT DELAY.
BUT MY RIGHTEOUS ONE SHALL LIVE BY FAITH;
AND IF HE SHRINKS BACK, MY SOUL HAS NO PLEASURE IN HIM.
But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul.

Awakening: Believe

2009-04-03T20:22:00.000-04:00

Do you know what hope means? I'm not talking about the wishing or good luck type of hope we throw around. I mean real Hope. Hope is an expectancy or longing. It is also the person/thing you center your expectations on. Hope is God, hope is faith in God, expecting God to answer.

Sometimes it can be hard to hang on to hope. It is all too easy to see the "what if". It is easier to have a back up plan just in case the expecations aren't met.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

I don't know why it is so hard to trust. I don't know how to believe any more then I do at this moment and yet when I look back to yesterday, I have more faith today. I often hang on to the idea that God knows I will have times that I doubt and times I don't believe or trust or expect in Him the things that I should. I am a work in progress.

"I do believe; help my unbelief."

Awakening: Adapt

2009-04-02T19:56:00.003-04:00

It has recently come to my attention that I live a very safe life. Truth be told, I have done everything I could think of to create a safe life. The suburban house wife, the mini van and the all important, if not physical, symbolic picket fence.

I didn't have a lot of safety as a child. As an adult most of the decisions I have made have been to make my life "better" then what I had. Sometimes I treat my Christianity as a stepping stone for the "better" life. Isn't that what it is? A place for good morals, happy children and good marriages.

What I didn't realize is that my picket fence isn't keeping out all of the bad. Instead it has kept me in a very safe "better" life than what I had. It isn't the "best" life that God has called me to live. How does my picket fence life show the power of my God?

God has been calling me to change. Change radically. To fall in love with Him dramatically. To respond with a faith that trusts Him with my life. I love my life. I love my husband, my kids, my home and all the treasure I have stored up in it. There isn't anything wrong with safety and security. I am scared of every step that calls me out of my safe place. Stronger than the fear, I have a desire to know what is outside this fence of mine. I am curious to see what God has beyond this "better" life of mine. I want to grasp the thing called "Christianity" that brings me first to my knees and second into following His plan.

How are you responding when God calls you to change?

Honoring God & Inspiring Others

2009-03-23T12:53:00.007-04:00

Do you limit yourself? Do you limit your dreams? Are you afraid to begin because you can't see the end?

I do.

Last year I quit smoking. Then, a friend challenged me to run a marathon. A What?!! A marathon, a running race that is 26.2 miles long. In September of last year I started training by walking 20 minutes a day.

Proverbs 16:9
The mind of man plans his way,
But the LORD directs his steps.

In October I ran my first 2 consecutive miles. When I touched the back of my minivan as if to mark the moment, I began to cry. Running isn't that big of a deal but having the idea that I could stick to something without knowing the outcome is. I didn't know I could run two miles.

In November I ran my first race. I got up, I ate my breakfast, I followed my plan and I made it to the starting line. I ran my first 8k, also the first time I ran 5 consecutive miles. I did it 2 minutes a mile faster then I thought I could.

In February I ran my first half-marathon. 13.2 miles. It took me two hours and 25 minutes. I didn't know I could run 13 miles. Again, I cried.

There are things and moments in life that will tell you about yourself. When I run, I am reminded that there is potential in me that I don't know yet. I don't have the courage to start things on my own but sometimes I find myself facing a fear and taking on the challenge. Because of one idea, one challenge I was inspired. I pray that my journey will inspire others. I know I have drawn closer to God in the process. I now can see in many areas of my life where the courage to begin and finding the strength to pursue and endure come from God. The finish line really isn't as important. What I thought would be the finish line in the process has disappeared but the journey will drive me for the rest of my life.

I may not see it and you may not see it in me but God does. I believe that. I believe He sees in me abilities and ideas and concepts that I can't even grasp. When it comes to honoring Him with my life, He is my biggest advocate and the best trainer. It isn't about just living a better life. This life isn't about the beginning or the end, it is about the journey. It is about taking this very moment and pointing it to God and His promises.

Matthew 10:30-32 (amp)
But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
Fear not, then; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Therefore, everyone who acknowledges Me before men and confesses Me [out of a state of oneness with Me], I will also acknowledge him before My Father Who is in heaven and confess [that I am abiding in] him.

I will run my marathon this weekend. I don't know if I can run 26.2 miles. I know I have trained. The journey has been amazing. I will be looking to Him in the process.

What calling in your life needs you to get started on journey?

Child Of The Creator

2009-03-17T09:07:00.000-04:00

God Created Man In His Image.

You and I are a part of God's creative legacy.

Wow, now that is an awesome responsibility....or is it an honor?!!

In the image of our Creator we are given the opportunity to be imaginative. We can take any idea we have and turn it into something real, something tangable. Do you believe you have that ability?

Why do we hold ourselves back? Why do we stop before we even start? Why do we believe only in our own potential and not in the potential God sees in us?

My Roots Grow Deeper

2009-03-16T15:43:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago I had the chance to go to Off The Blogs in Atlanta. It was truly an amazing experience. I have to say I didn't know what to expect when I went and many thanks to Farah for joining me in something she really had no interest in to start with.

It was a simple enough concept, get out from behind the computer and meet each other. For real, not the picture that is painted in the few words written about their lives in the weekly blog posts. I went with the hopes of grasping a better understanding of how they create community on their blogs, how to stimulate conversation and build relationships with their readers.

My first impression...WOW!! They had Aaron Keys lead a time of worship. Amazing. Absolutely Amazing. Not only the song choices but his knowledge and passion for the Psalms and God's word. Breathtaking. At one point he read through Isaiah 61, I could have stayed and listened to him read the entire book of Isaiah if he had wanted to.

The event was hosted by Pete Wilson. Carlos Whitaker, Anne Jackson and Jon Acuff each took a time to share a part of themselves. (I highly recommend you check out their blogs.) Here are some of the amazing things I learned:

Ground your Identity in Christ and not in the comments, the image or the words.

"Fine" is the Christian F word and we need to stop a culture of just being fine.

Be transparent. Everyone needs someone to say "me too". People struggle and need to know that they are not alone.

Be held Accountable. Place people in your life that will check up on you, love you and be completely honest with you.

Give the Gift of Second. Be willing to share your testimony, your story first. Give someone else the courage to tell their story once you have told yours.

Regardless of how any of us choose to respond to God's grace, it all has meaning. It all is a part of a bigger plan. Sometimes we do it imperfectly, sometimes we get it right and loose focus of our purpose. It is always used for His glory.

Comfort

2009-02-25T09:23:00.003-05:00

A few months ago a good friend of mine found out her husband is not what he said he was. He came home one day and told her he was tired of lying and that he wasn't a Christian. After 10 years of marriage, 10 years of church going, mission supporting and Sunday School teaching he made this confession.

She knew that he had struggles with his faith. She knew he questioned and lived a lukewarm life. Did she expect that deep down he wasn't a believer? No.

Lukewarm people do not live by faith; their lives are structured so they never have to. They don't have to trust God if something unexpected happens--they have their savings account. They don't need God to help them--they have their retirement plan in place. They don't genuinely seek out what life God would have them live--they have life figured and mapped out. They don't depend on God on a daily basis--their refrigerators are full and, for the most part, they are in good health. The truth is, their lives wouldn't look much different if they suddenly stopped believing in God. (Crazy Love by Francis Chan, pg 78)

How do we recognize when our lives have become too comfortable? Do we recognize when the people we love have lost their faith? Do we know the difference between when they are just doing the "right" thing and when they are serving God?

Is it our responsibility as Christians to hold one another responsible for the lives we live?

If you stopped believing in God today would anyone notice?

Famine

2009-02-13T21:35:00.001-05:00

I may never know what it means to be physically hungry. I am an American and even as a child, eating government cheese, I was never hungry. I am in the top 1% of the worlds wealthiest people. So are you, if you live in the United States.

If I had the cure for world hunger would I only give it to a select few? Would I pick and choose the most deserving based on my own judgements?

I have know what it means to be spiritually hungry. I know what it is like to live a life separated from God. There are approximately 224,457,000 Christians in the United States and only two stepped out and told me the name of Jesus.

We have the cure for the greatest famine of them all, living a life separated from God. Are we picking and choosing who gets fed and who doesn't?

John 4:7-14 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will
you give me a drink?" (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the
well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"
Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

Doorways

2009-02-12T21:16:00.004-05:00

“When one door closes, another opens...." ~Alexander Graham Bell
"When one door closes, God opens a window." ~Unknown

I am not a big subscriber to those two thoughts. I think doors are shut for a reason but we like to cut out our own doors and windows to escape the very place God wants us to be.

Why do we always need to escape the place we are in?

Hebrews 12:1-3 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 throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

When I was a child we moved every time life got too tough for my mom to handle. She would get all excited, talk about her new plans, our new opportunities. The house would be new, the job would be different but nothing changed. All of the baggage from life was packed in our boxes and moved right along with us.

Maybe, doors close or never existed because we are suppose to be exactly where we are. There are things that need to be taken care of before we can move on. There are times we are called to be still and know our God. As it says in Hebrews 12 there are a few things that need to be done in order to run the race He has prepared for us.

Valleys

2009-02-05T15:39:00.003-05:00

Life is undoubtedly full of valleys and mountain tops. Being a Christian doesn't promise any less valleys. It doesn't promise that bad things won't happen to good people. Being a believer in the saving blood of Christ does promise that wherever we are in life's topography, God is with us.

I have never understood the roller coaster ride that some people choose to be on in their Christian lives. God never leaves us, regardless of the place we are in. The same joy that is shouted from the mountain tops of life should be the relied on in the valleys. The Father in our times of triumph is the same Father in our times of weakness.

Philippians 4:11-14 .....for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Next time life brings you to a valley, no matter how long or how deep, remember God is with you. It is up to you to trust that He is there.

There is a section of Romans 8 that I go to when the valleys of life overwhelm me. In verse 37 it says "...we are more than conquerors.". I find peace in those words, to me it is a promise that I am on the side of God and I will overcome this, whatever the "this" is.

Write His word on your heart. Know the promises made to you. Believe you are adopted into the family of God. He won't leave you in your time of need.

Romans 8:37-39 "...in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Tunnels

2009-01-28T16:12:00.004-05:00

Tunnels are a necessary part of our journey. It seems they are the simplest way to get from here to where God wants us to be. Why then do we constantly try to take the long way around?

I wish I had a great answer. It does make me think about a necessary tunnel that I have recently come through. I entered it about 6 other times in my adult life. I always convinced myself to turn around because of self-doubt. My inability to see the end result in my own mind created doubt that coming through the other end was even a possibility for me.

What made it happen this time? I stopped relying on myself for the strength to get through. Renewing of my mind, so to speak. I believe a little more each day that He is strong when I am weak. I believe He has a greater plan for me than I have for myself. I believe I am an overcomer, not because of me but because I believe, I am adopted into a family of overcomers.

Here I am. On the other side. I am freed from the bondage of addiction, celebrating one year smoke free.

There is power in moving forward, through places where we can't even see around the corner.

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of
things not seen.

Vision: Life Change

2009-01-14T09:34:00.005-05:00

Have you ever heard of the butterfly effect? I am not talking about the movie but the theory that when and where a butterfly flaps its wings it could essentially effect when/where/and if there will be a tornado. I have always appreciated this theory and I believe it is in essence the idea that no matter how small, everything effects something.

There always seems to be a lot of talk about change when the new year comes. It is a time for self-reflection. Maybe the only time of year we re-evaluate where we have been, where we are and where we want to be. It is a good time to start new habits and try and get rid of the old ones. Try and follow my thought process here...what if I believed that one small thing that I change in my life, would have an effect as grand as the flapping of the wings of a butterfly? What if I believed for a moment that by living my life according to His Word that He will take that beyond anything I could conceive or imagine.

When I first started thinking about the idea of changing someones life, I thought that it was a little crazy and far fetched. Okay, maybe possible if you give me a year to build a real relationship with someone so that I can feel comfortable actually trying to "save" them. I have a tendency to only see what I am capable of and not what God is capable of doing with my obedience. If God can use the flapping of a butterfly's wings to change the direction of a tornado, is He not also capable of using my desire to change someones life for something beyond my foresight?

1 Corinthians 3:7-9 So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is
anything, but God who causes the growth. Now he who plants and he who waters are
one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are
God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building.

I don't know why God set it up so that He can use my life for His purpose. But, what an amazing thought to know that I am in partnership with Him. Whatever I choose to do today in response to His grace will be taken and used in a plan much bigger and greater then I will ever know.

Intangibles: Atmosphere

2009-01-06T22:17:00.002-05:00

Do you remember the challenge we were given during Nick's sermon in December? He asked us to intentionally bring change to 3 separate environments.

Matthew 5:13-16 "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

So, did you pick three? Did you change the atmosphere of a place because you were there? Was God glorified?

I have to admit, I haven't thought about the three environments I chose until I sat down to write this blog. I know it was on my heart over the holidays though and looking back I can kinda see a change in each environment. Going against the grain a bit here, I will tell you all three of my "environments" were actually relationships. I am going to share one of my experiences in the hopes that some of you will share how this challenge manifested itself in your own lives. (And if you didn't do it, that is okay, today is a great day to start.)

So, my first and most important environment is actually with my daughter Madi. Sometimes as mom, I can be really hard on Madi. Always seeing her potential and expecting the above and beyond from her. I know this isn't bad but sometimes I forget to take time to just be a light in her life. Sometimes our environment is more like a battlefield than a peaceful home. Over Christmas break I really made an effort to pick my battles and found time to pour into her the praises she deserves. With a little extra helping of self-control and patience, of coarse. God is amazingly faithful to me when I am ready for change that will truly glorify Him. I also called on a few accountability partners to keep me in check through the last few weeks. My goal now is to continue to change and find the balance that is so necessary in my relationship with Madi. I was reminded with this challenge that it isn't my job to just teach my girls about Christ but to show them what it looks like to be salt and light. My words mean very little if I don't pour into them the very things I tell them to do.

"To change atmosphere, be people willing to influence atmosphere"
~Nick Rains

Intangibles:Time

2009-01-06T21:40:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!! I hope everyone has enjoyed the first 6 days of 2009. It is amazing how fast a week can come and go.

I hope you all can forgive me for my recent lack of posting. I was consumed by the insanity of the holidays (actually, I was just trying to edit our Stolpementary). So, it seemed appropriate to me to start this year off writing about my thoughts on time.

At the beginning of every new year we seem to make a new promise to spend more time with God, more time reading our Bibles. We go and buy the newest 15 min with God devotional that comes with the dates already. We buy the Bibles with the "Read the Bible in a Year" Calendars. Now Jan 1 never actually counts as the first day of the year because it is a day with family, a Sabbath day. So we start on the 2nd, we get up a few minutes early and read our 15 min devotional while the coffee brews. Then get out the new journal that a spouse loving purchased and inscribed for us because they support and love all of our best-of-intentions. We read the scriptures for Jan 1 and 2 because we observed the Sabbath. Write a few words about what they mean to us, maybe a question or two to talk to the pastor about.

Skip ahead a few weeks and we have only written in our journals a handful of times. Decided that the weekends were just too difficult, so this will be a commitment we will make on week days. About mid February you have overslept an entire week and the 30 min you had planned to spend with God has become a rush and an "I will get to that".

In my overactive imagination I can picture God, getting up a little early, enjoying his cup of heavenly java while waiting for me to join Him in our quiet place. I wonder how many mornings He has waited on me. I wonder how many times I passed by in my morning rush. I wonder how many more mornings He will wait for me.

Revelations 3:20'Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.

I think we make the idea of spending time with God much more difficult than it needs to be. He is there, waiting for us to spend time with Him. We don't need calendars or special devotionals, inscripted journals or the lasted Bible translation. We only need to want to be in relationship. We only need to want it bad enough that it is worth our time.

Intangibles: Views and Opinions

2008-12-10T08:07:00.009-05:00

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Nick seems to be using the words in Romans 12 a lot lately. Not that I mind, they are some of my favorites. In my own life, they are the words that changed everything.

Often as a new Christian it is hard to understand why change is so hard. Everyone has loved on you and supported you, prayed the sinners prayer with you. Now, with the great thing called hope you get up everyday tripping over all of your old mistakes. Well, this is how it worked for me. So frustrating and discouraging it is to want something different in yourself and not knowing how to hold on to it.

It seems a rare thing that someone will come beside a new believer and help them understand that they are in need of a mental renewing . A change in life perspective. Hope is a beautiful thing but doesn't change the view and perspective that someone has held about themselves or the world. It isn't about wanting it bad enough or will power that will change old patterns. It is about changing your view. Having the right tools is important. Looking at life through the spectacles of abuse, addiction, self-righteousness and pride can make it pretty difficult to see things from God's perspective.

There are times, even today, that my views and opinions just don't line up with my faith. Sometimes it is more important to me to be right then it is to be in agreement with God. Oh, Yes, I can be a right-fighter. Many times in this life of mine I have been so adamant about something that I have hurt relationships. I want to agree with God in all things, what is it Paul says; "For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate." (Romans 7:15)

If we continue to read into Romans 8 about Paul's struggle; he tells us of the promise we have been given; there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Then he also reminds us in verse 6 "For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.."

For all of us, be it new believer or mature Christian, we all struggle with seeing things from our old points of view. It is time for a new prescription; and the more time we spend in fellowship, in learning and in His Word, the more opportunity we have to renew our ways of thinking. We may continue to struggle but we are no longer bound to the thoughts of our former lives.

Romans 8:15 For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear
again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out,
"Abba! Father!"

Your Lenses (Family Challenge)

I don't really have an activity for you this week, but more of something to think about. As parents, teachers and mentors to our children we are helping form their opinions and views on life. Double check the lenses you are having children in your life look through. They come to us open minded and we add to them the things we believe and see. Does our perspective help or hurt their life views? Do they see God when they see through your lenses?

Backyard: The Church

2008-12-04T11:46:00.005-05:00

Acts 2:46-47 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart,
praising God and having favor with all the people And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were saved.

My favorite part of this time of year is being with friends and family. There isn't anything like gathering together with people that love and care about you. It is an even more beautiful experience when you know that the host/hostess has a genuine desire to share all the blessings God has given them.

I love the thought of the first church meeting together for their meals everyday, sharing the blessings of God everyday. Imagine how it would change our sense of belonging and community if we met together with like-minded people at the end of every hard working day.

No McDonald's drive through or tv while we eat our meal. Good conversation, laughter, accountability, sincerity and honest is what I see at a table of believers sitting down to a meal. A sense of belonging to something bigger and more powerful then all of the things that would have to be rescheduled in our world today in order to have relationships with people.

Matthew 18:20"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am
there in their midst."

Invitation (Family Challenge)
You were invited into the family of God at some point in your life. Someone shared with you the beauty in our Lord and Savior's sacrifice. Doesn't everyone you know deserve the same invitation.

Find some time in your hectic schedule to invite someone you know that maybe isn't already a believer and share a meal with them. Invite one person or an entire family but reach out beyond yourself and share the blessings you have with someone. They will know that Christ is in your home.

People are looking for hope. Share yours with them and once again the Body of Christ will be meeting together in gladness and sincerity of heart while sharing a meal in our homes.

Backyard: Our World

2008-11-26T11:10:00.004-05:00

Here are some of my favorite quotes that Daniel said when he spoke to us on Sunday about his and Rachael's ministry to the Tibetan people in China.

~"...be a tool to empower the nationals vision for their church"

2 Corinthians 5 was the scripture he shared with us: (Daniel's interpretations)

"let the love of God compel you to persuade men they too need the love of God"

"See people through God's eyes"

my favorite quote:

"God doesn't need you but invites you to be a part of what he is
doing"

Please add Daniel, Rachael and Hannah to your prayer list. May we all be a small part of the great work God has invited them to be a part of in China.

Backyard: Our Nation

2008-11-20T11:37:00.002-05:00

Some days it is just easier to point fingers at everyone else. Taking personal responsibility for my own life, my community and lets not forget my nation is a heavy burden to bear. Why can't I just focus on me? Why do I have to show love to everyone, they don't even like what I believe?

Because we are called to do just that....

Phillipians 2:14-18
Do all things without grumbling or disputing; so
that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God
above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you
appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in
the day of Christ I will have reason to glory because I did not run in vain nor
toil in vain. But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon
the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you
all. You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with
me.

Light in Darkness (Family Challenge)

Get yourself a flashlight. In a dark room have everyone sit in a circle. Pass the flashlight around. Whoever has the flashlight should hold it under their chin (don't forget to turn it on) and give an example of how they can be a light in their world......Encourage you children to use their unique personalities and talents for ways they are light.

Backyard: Our Community

2008-11-13T11:40:00.010-05:00

Matthew 28:18-20 (msg) Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: "God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age."

Who, Me? Is he talking to me? Make disciples, teach, baptise. That isn't my job.

There was a long period in my faith where I felt incapable of leading people. I felt too imperfect and not smart enough to answer the questions people had about Salvation. My internal dialog was great at reminding me that I am just a wife, just a mother. Mission field; ministry, I don't think so. I am not sure what had given me the idea that I wasn't capable of sharing God's love with others. Maybe society, maybe my own lack of self-confidence or I was just scared to get it wrong.

Without the dedication of a few wonderful people I would never have stepped out and shared my testimony with others. (Fellowship) My confidence in sharing the gospel gets stronger and stronger the more I read and learn His Word. (Study) I have a "new" life. I don't just have a better life because of my Salvation. Living in Christ has given me an entirely new life. My testimony, my past baggage are proof of how great our God is. My life has been transformed.

My ministry is in being a wife and mother. (Worship) I may not be flying to a foreign country any time soon but my commitment to my Savior is just as important to the people in my everyday as it is to the people in Africa. I have learned to be careful in judging what God can do through people when their hearts are open. Sometimes when I don't feel so friendly and want to keep to myself, I try and remember that Christ himself asked me to go out in His name and share His grace. What right do I have to keep all of God's blessings to myself? Regardless if I think they deserve it, God thinks they too are worth the sacrifice that He made.

Stepping Out (Family Challenge)

I think our children could probably teach us a thing or two about unconditional acceptance. Have you ever noticed how children that just meet are instantly friends, capable of sharing everything. With no thought to how they will carry on a conversation and how they instantly find things they have in common.

This week lets get messy with a little craft.

Get a couple different colors of washable (water based) paint.

Craft paper (long enough to fit your foot on)

Paint brushes (sponge will work to)

Okay, clear a space on the kitchen floor. If you bought the right kind of paint you should have nothing to worry about, but keep a few paper towels handy. Maybe a bowl of water to rinse feet off in.

Pick who will go first. One at a time, each of you make a commitment to step out into your communities (school, work, sports teams, etc) and make a difference for Christ. Talk to your kids about being called to share what Christ has done for them. Help the younger ones paint the bottom of their feet and place them on the paper. Maybe let them paint the bottom of your feet.

When you are standing in your kitchen, feet covered in paint remember to thank God for the blessings He has given you.

Self-Control

2008-11-07T16:27:00.005-05:00

I have been a part of the Christian church long enough to know that there are some things that are considered forgivable sin and some things that are not. There are some that are talked about and some that are ignored. More often then not the basic cause of sin is our personal lack of self-control.

My biggest curiosity is: why do we as a group of people cut off the sinner instead of helping them. Is it because we see too much of ourselves in them? Is it just easier to cut off our own arm than deal with the pain and the time it takes to heal someone?

1 Corinthians 12:22-27 On the contrary, it is much truer that the members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary;
23and those members of the body which we deem less honorable, on these we bestow more abundant honor, and our less presentable members become much more presentable,
24whereas our more presentable members have no need of it. But God has so composed the body, giving more abundant honor to that member which lacked,
25so that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.
26And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
27Now you are Christ's body, and individually members of it.

Somewhere along the way we miss the point. In our need to look godly and perfect we don't use the gifts He gifts us to love the unlovely. I am guilty of this very thing. When I see a high profile preacher with all of his baggage posted on the 6 o'clock news, I think "great, one more I have to make excuses for when people ask." As a Christian community we immediately say, "He/She must not have been a "real" Christian, or they wouldn't have done that." Have we thought for a moment of our own personal times of weakness? What do we do when our self-control has taken a vacation and we sit with the repercussions staring us in the face?

It isn't all bad news and we don't always cut off the arm. The greatest strength I have in this world is the body of believers that I call family. Without the people around me that hold me accountable and notice changes in my behaviors I would only have myself to answer to. Admittedly, my own personal judgement is a little off at times and I can use the occasional calling out. I can also use the love, patience and kindness that has been shown me numerous times by my family as they pick me up out my pit of self-destruction.

I would like to challenge us all as the Body of Christ to be willing to hold on to all of our parts, even the least. Be willing to make the sacrifice of healing and loving the imperfectness that lives in all of us. We are all a work in progress.

Fertile Soil (Family Challenge)

It has been a couple of weeks since we started our Fruit of the Spirit series. Take a little time to review the importance of all of the fruit in our lives with your children. It is important to help them understand that it is hard to be successful with one, without another.

Help your children understand the important role that they play as a part of the Body of Christ. Teach them the power of forgiveness. Teach them how to love and be patient. Become each others accountability partners, not out of judgement but out of love. Your children are planted in fertile soil, be the water and nourishment they need to be connected to the one true vine.

Gentleness

2008-10-28T12:54:00.007-04:00

"power under control"

Now I know what Gentleness is. What in the world is this power I am trying to control? Christ understood the power that was in him. Do we, as modern day Christians, understand the power we claim to be inheritors of (Hebrews 9:14-15)?

Unfortunately, I know very few people that truly live powerful lives. I wonder if our faith has been so watered down that we no longer understand what it all means for us. Early in my belief, I knew I needed Christ to live my life to its full potential. I knew that without Him, my life didn't have purpose. I still know why I have Christ in my life but I don't think I live it to all of the full potential intended by God.

Now, I don't think I am suppose to be going around trying to do super-spiritual things everyday. I believe God uses my everyday life to be one of His examples in our world. I do question some of my intent. I can't say that I spend each day going out making a difference for the Kingdom. I certainly don't go about sharing the power that lives inside me. I wonder how life would change for me and the people around me if I could boldly go through my routines with the power of Christ guiding my intentions, WOW....What if through gentleness with my children, spouse and friends people saw the power I have in my life? What if I truly started to understand that the power in me is the same as the power that rose Christ from the dead?

Romans 8:9-11(msg) But if God himself has taken up residence in your life, you can hardly be thinking more of yourself than of him. Anyone, of course, who has not welcomed this invisible but clearly present God, the Spirit of Christ, won't know what we're talking about. But for you who welcome him, in whom he dwells—even though you still experience all the limitations of sin—you yourself experience life on God's terms. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he'll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ's!

Just Peachy (Family challenge)

Teaching Gentleness to children can be extremely difficult. Especially if you have toddlers. Peaches are one of the yummiest fruits out there but they bruise with the slightest mishandling. Buy a few peaches this week and share them with your kids, maybe hand one to your youngest child to see if they are gentle with it or not.

While eating your peaches over some ice cream or covered in cream, talk to your kids about the importance of gentleness. Explain how people we love are a little like peaches and that our words and our actions can bruise them much easier than we expect them to.

The entire point of these family challenges is to get you talking with your children. Regardless of where your conversations will lead, you are leading your family in the ways of our Father. Teaching His values in simple situations will create a desire in your children to mimic those behaviors.

Faithfulness

2008-10-20T21:18:00.006-04:00

Have a little Faith in me.

I don't know if you need it but I do. I need to know someone believes in me. I need to know someone will stand by me. I need to know that wherever I go and whatever mistakes I make that someone has faith in me.

Believe I can do it when I don't believe I can.

Believe I am worth it when I don't see my value.

Believe I deserve love when I can't earn it.

Believe I can do right when all I do is wrong.

Believe I have strength when I only feel weak.

Believe I have courage when all I feel is fear.

Believe I am forgivable when I can't forgive.

Believe I am worth the sacrifice He made when I can't find the faith to believe I am.

On more than one occasion I have had conversations with people that were in the process of finding faith. Many have more in common than you may think. Most have the same insecurities. More than you realize don't believe they are worth the love God wants to give them. Too many are trying to make up for what they have done by attempting to earn their salvation.

Grace is a hard gift to grasp if you don't believe anyone should love you.

What does this all have to do with Faithfulness? As a believer in the Savior Jesus Christ, I know the sacrifice (John 3:16-17) that was made for me. I know my God is faithful (Psalm 100) and even when I am weak (Romans 7:14-25) He will pick me up. I have faith and in response to God's grace, I am faithful. Not just faithful to Him but to all of His creation.

Let me be honest here, I like your bumper stickers and your Jesus pins but how is your faith being lived out in your life. People need you, a follower of Christ, to step out and be faithful to all of humanity. No matter how much it may hurt. People need you to believe in them before they can believe in themselves or have faith in a God that they can't see. We all need someone to tell us we are worthy of the sacrifice before we believe it ourselves.

It wasn't that long ago that someone was faithful to me. Loved me, believed in me and took all the hurt I could throw at them. I disappointed and fell short of every expectation. I wasn't there when I should have been and I couldn't love back the way they deserved to be loved. Still, they believed in me. This was one of the first Christians I knew and they saved my life.

Be willing to give of yourself, faithfully, to someone that may reject you. In God's eyes they are just as worthy of His love as you are. This means stepping out of your boundaries, be vulnerable and be prepared for sacrifice.

Hard Shell (Family Challange)

Keeping with the whole fruit thing, this week pick out something with a hard shell on it to eat while discussing faithfulness. Maybe a coconut or pineapple. This will make a good example about how sometimes it is hard to keep our promises to people, but when we do we get to enjoy the fruit of our hard work.

Faithfulness starts with learning to keep our promises. Talk to your children about their promises. If they have siblings remind them that by being a brother or sister that they promise love and kindness to each other every day. If they have pets; talk about the responsibility they have to feed and care for their animal. Their pet relies on their faithfulness to survive. Talk about the importance of good friendship and being an honest and trustworthy person.

Don't forget to talk about the promises God keeps to us........

And remember that you are the example of Faithfulness to your children. Do you keep your promises? Do you believe in them when the rest of the world doesn't?

Goodness

2008-10-14T22:41:00.005-04:00

It wasn't that long ago that I thought Ted and I were living a good life. We were good people. We didn't break the law or hurt other people. We had a decent marriage and a beautiful baby girl. Good friends to spend time with. Middle class, keeping up with the Jones', going with the motions of the everyday. Ted wasn't a Christian. I was somewhere between having accepted my salvation and not truly living in the freedom I had been given.

Nick was right when he said that good people are the hardest to reach. If you would have asked me then if I though I needed to live a "better" life, I probably would have thought you were silly. Ted would have been insulted and listed off the myriad of accomplishments that make him a wonderful provider. We were very intentional in our goodness. Making sure our families and friends knew we were living right.

Just a few short months after Madi had celebrated her second birthday, there was a terrible accident in Ted's family. His cousin lost her little girl in a terrible accident. She was on life support for a few days as the family had to decide the best care for her. She passed away on Christmas day, about 3 months before her 4th birthday.

K's death hit me like a ton of bricks. We use to take our girls to tea together. Being a young mother myself I just wanted to hold Madi that much closer and protect her from everything. Some things in this life don't have explanations. Some things happen for reasons we don't understand. It was difficult to comfort J. I felt even worse bringing Madi with me as a reminder of what was missing in her life.

I have been to a few memorial services in my life but I have never, even to this day, seen anything like little K's funeral. There were so many people that the large Lutheran church was full out to the foyer. People that all knew K. It was amazing. Everyone shared stories of her life, of her joy. Ted and I were sitting towards the back and watching how everyone was interacting and comforting J and her family. This was their home church. Their family. Closer to them than Ted and I were.

One person after another spoke about how K had done something to bring them joy. They talked about her faith. They shared her struggles. A young lady from her dance class came and performed K's favorite dance, to her favorite song. In a room that should have truly been filled with sorrow, there was a light. People just seemed to know that K was an amazing little girl and had changed peoples lives.

She changed my life that day. After seeing what God could do in a few short years of a child life, I wondered what He could do with mine. There had to be more to the everyday "goodness" I was living because I wasn't doing anything to change anything. I had no purpose to my goodness other then to (let me be honest here) be better than everyone else.

We started taking an Introduction to Christianity class at a local church and ended up with some serious reevaluating to do. I realized that God didn't see me and all my goodness any different then he saw the thief at the local jail. All of my good works were going to get me nothing.

Learning to live right for the right reasons. It is a hard lesson to swallow. Especially when you think you already have the good life figured out.

Luke 6: 42-45 "Or how can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,' when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother's eye.
"For there is no good tree which produces bad fruit, nor, on the other hand, a bad tree which produces good fruit.
"For each tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they pick grapes from a briar bush.
"The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.

Pomegranate Goodness (Family Challenge)

On Sunday, Nick talked about how healthy fruit bears seeds so that the plant can reproduce. One of the greatest seed bearing fruits is the Pomegranate. An average fruit has over 600 seeds in it. It is also the only part of the Pomegranate that most people eat.

Okay, so go to the store and get yourself a Pomegranate. It makes a great visual. Talk to your family about how the good fruit from one good tree can produce up to 600 more good trees. Talk about ways that each of those "good" seeds can be planted. Be sure to talk to your children about the source of their Goodness, our Savior Jesus. He is the only source of food, light and living water for our fruit.

Have fun.

Kindness

2008-10-07T07:56:00.008-04:00

John 15:1,4,5
1"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.
4"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.
5"I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.

If I am not connected to Jesus, I am not connected to our Father. If I am not connected to Jesus, there is no fruit. As a society we like to make a list of all we should, would and could do. We even restrict the Fruit in our lives to acts. Paul tells us in Galatians 5 that our fruit comes from a response of walking with the Spirit in our lives. I don't know when kindness became a to-do list. Kindness is a part of who we are.

Our Savior died so that we all may be saved. Every man, women and child that you get mad at, frustrated with and look down on deserves a relationship with Christ. Can you look them in the face and tell them they don't deserve your kindness? If you and I abide in our Savior, we will bare fruit. Our identity now lies with Christ. Kindness is now part of my Character. It is who I am. It is who you are. You are kind. Do not deny those that need the fruit of our Savior the most. Give it freely as it is freely given to you. Be intentional in your kindness and give it away.

Fruit Salad (Family Challenge)

Have your oldest child write a list of the Fruit of the Spirit. If they need help have them look up Galatians 5.

Now, load up your car full of children and go to the local grocery story. In the produce section, take your list of "Fruit" and have your children alternate picking out the "Fruit". (ie say love, child picks out strawberries). Don't tell your children which fruit to pick unless someone has allergies.

This part requires more family participation and discussion: Have everyone help prepare a fruit salad. Find out why they chose the fruit they did. Show them how some need to be peeled, cut an apple in half, sideways, and show them the star in the middle. Make this a memory that will remind them of how beautiful the fruit of our lives can be.

Enjoy a great salad with your family. May the Fruit of your lives be abundant.

Patience

2008-10-02T16:38:00.009-04:00

I can be a bit of a control freak. When things don't seem to be going exactly as I have envisioned, I can get a little temperamental. I have been known to be a little like Simon Peter, cut off the ear ask questions later. Unfortunately by not taking time to listen and be patient I end up apologizing a lot, especially to my children.

Sometimes when life is in the middle of its hectic schedules and responsibilities it is hard to see all of the options. It is easy to get tunnel vision and try to control everything to fit that picture. The ability to slow down or even stop becomes so much of an effort that it isn't part of the plan. There isn't time for patience. Before you know it, everything is out of control. Your schedule is so crammed with your to-do lists that even your daily planner is going to revolt. When did a 15 minute delay in our lives become long suffering?

Thank God that He is patient with us. When we are in the middle of all of the craziness and don't know what to do and finally call on His Name, He is listening.

Psalm 40:1-3 I waited patiently for the LORD; And He inclined to me and heard my cry. 2He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. 3He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; Many will see and fear And will trust in the LORD.

When I read this Psalm I picture God picking me up out of the chaos. Chaos that I created. In life I seem to be throwing punches, screaming at the world and then I finally break down. When He pulls me out of my own pit, I see things more clearly. I see Him more clearly. Patience is knowing it will happen (God's promises) and giving it time to. I struggle with the time part. When we wait God can work. When we fill our time with our deeds and our control issues, there isn't space for God to do his work.

Planting seeds of patience. (Family Challenge)
Get your family involved in learning about patience. Find out what you can do in your lives to learn to rely first on God, resting in Him, and then making choices for your family. I challenge you to list the top 5 time stealer's in your home, replace one of them with God.

Get a little creative with you kids and teach them and yourself the beauty of patience.
You need:

Dixie cups
potting soil
seeds (pick five or six different kinds) If you look at the back of the seed packet it will tell you how long it will be before you see a plant. Try and find things that are fast and slow.

Plant your seeds in the Dixie cups and water them occasionally. Wait and watch them grow. Learn to appreciate that God's amazing creativity can make something as simple as a seed, truly beautiful with nourishment and time.