Actions Speak LOUDEST!

In Stone

2012-01-24T22:39:00.000-05:00

A friend shared this via email and thought the message was worth sharing here...

Two friends were walking
through the desert.
During some point of the
journey, they had an
argument; and one friend
slapped the other one
in the face.

The one who got slapped
was hurt, but without
saying anything,
wrote in the sand ,

Today my best friend
slapped me in the face .

They kept on walking,
until they found an oasis,
where they decided
to take a bath.

The one who had been
slapped got stuck in the
mire and started drowning,
but the friend saved him.

After he recovered from
the near drowning,
he wrote
on a stone:

'Today my best friend
saved my life.'

The friend who had slapped
and saved his best friend
asked him, 'after i hurt you,
you wrote in the sand and now,
you write on a stone, why?'

The friend replied,
'when someone hurts us
we should write it down
in sand, where winds of
forgiveness can erase it away.

But, when someone does something good for us,
we must engrave it in stone
where no wind
can ever erase it'

Learn to write
your hurts in
the sand and to
carve your
benefits in stone.

~ author unknown

Bible Reading Plan

2011-09-08T19:34:00.001-04:00

There are many different ways to read the Bible through and I'd like to share one of them with you because it is unique. You read 10 chapters of the Bible each day - one chapter from each list. The Bible is broken into 10 groups/lists. I'm copying the "plan" below, but it's a little hard to read. For a better idea see the link listed at the end.

The book "Radical" by David Platt challenges American Christians to rethink their values and what Jesus may be calling them to do. On his website he shares several ways we can grow in our faith, through Bible reading, prayer and service.

Grant Horner Bible Reading System

List -- Books of the Bible -- Days to Complete

List 1 -- Matthew, Mark, Luke, John -- 89

List 2 -- Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy -- 187

List 3 -- Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Hebrews --78

List 4 -- 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2 & 3 John, Jude, Revelations -- 65

List 5 -- Job, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon -- 62

List 6 -- Psalms -- 150

List 7 -- Proverbs -- 31

List 8 -- Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther -- 249

List 9 -- Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zachariah, Malachi -- 250

List 10 -- Acts -- 28

Read one chapter from each list each day; in one sitting or two. At the end of a book; go to the next book. At the end of the list; start it again. Do it in the order given above.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/12349985/Professor-Grant-Horners-Bible-Reading-System

31 Day Challenges

2011-08-04T13:45:00.005-04:00

I found these challenges on Facebook and wanted to share them here in case anyone would like to join the challenge...

31 Days of Prayer for Your Husband

31 Days of Prayer for Your Children
31 Days of Prayer for Your Pastor
31 Days of Prayer for Your Pastor's Wife
31 Days of Letting Go

Kids of Courage

2011-03-08T11:37:00.003-05:00

Today I read about a new VBS program from Voice of the Martyrs and Kids of Courage.

They say:

"The Kids of Courage VBS curriculum introduces students to real Kids of Courage at risk for their faith today in five countries: China, Egypt, Nigeria, North Korea, and India. Students learn how bold believers around the world live, worship, and play.

The lessons teach children how to pray for those who risk everything for their faith, and how to become Kids of Courage themselves. They learn that Kids of Courage: Trust God, Get Prepared, Remember Persecuted Christians, Forgive Others, and Witness Boldly."

I think it sounds like an incredible program that could be used in a variety of ways (not just VBS) to teach our kids about persecuted Christians around the world.

For detailed info read more http://ministry-to-children.com/kids-of-courage-vbs/#comment-29772.

It's About the Cross

2010-12-05T16:05:00.004-05:00

It's About the Cross is a beautiful song that shares the message of Christmas.

Verse 1

It's not just about the manger
Where the baby lay
It's not all about the angels
Who sang for him that day

It's not just about the shepherds
Or the bright and shining star
It's not all about the wisemen
Who travelled from afar

Chorus:
It's about the cross
It's about my sin
It's about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again

It's about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday

It's about the cross
It's about the cross

Verse 2:

It's not just about the presents
Underneath the tree
It's not all about the feeling
That the season brings to me

It's not just about coming home
To be with those you love
It's not all about the beauty
In the snow I'm dreaming of

Repeat Chorus

Bridge:

The beginning of the story is wonderful and great
But it's the ending that can save you and that's why we celebrate

It's about the cross
It's about my sin
It's about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again

It's about God's love
Nailed to a tree
It's about every drop of blood that flowed from Him when it should have been me

It's about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday
So that you and I could have real life someday

It's about the cross
It's about the cross

More lyrics: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/g/go_fish/#share

Far from Perfect

2010-06-03T15:29:00.003-04:00

I just read a blog post by Ashley Weis that touched my heart deeply. I've been thinking a lot lately about how far I have to go to become the person that God truly wants me to be and Ashley's article said what I would have liked to say, but a lot more eloquently. Check out her blog.

Life Goes On...for Some of Us...

2010-05-06T10:04:00.015-04:00

Even though I haven't been to blogspot in a while life continues as usual here. There have been some changes in the last few months (pain, death, sickness). My kids are growing like weeds. My ten year old daughter is sitting next to me reading over my shoulder and she laughed and said, "We are weeds? I'm not a weed, I'm a flower!" Okay they are all flowers then... Hmmm maybe my son should be a tree, since if I don't know where he is I just need to look up and I'll probably find him in a tree.

I went in to a horrible time of back pain on March 14th and was hardly able to walk for a week. I couldn't get up by myself or even lift my feet. A friend from church brought me a walker to use. It took me five excruciating minutes to move from my living room to my kitchen (in a townhouse). Then on March 21st my mother unexpectedly died. She was only 59 and we were planning her annual trip to visit my family for Easter. I'm actually thankful for the bout with severe pain right before she died because I was able to tell her that I had a better understanding of what she deals with on a daily basis. I'm not unfamiliar with pain, but this pain was debilitating and I was actually afraid that I could end up paralyzed. I've been told that is a possibility.

When I told my children that Grandma died, my seven year old son fell to the floor weeping and my ten year old daughter sat on the couch with tears pouring down her face. My fifteen month old obviously didn't comprehend the loss, but she knew something was wrong. She walked over to my son and wrapped her little arms around his neck and just hugged him. Then she walked across the room and picked up a tissue and went to my daughter and began wiping her face. The sweet baby was like an angel as she ministered to her siblings.

While the me and the kids were in Ohio, my husband fell and got a blood clot in his leg (DVT). I was so worried about him, but unable to get home because I was stranded in Ohio. Since I was having back pain, I knew I couldn't drive to Ohio, so some wonderful friends helped transport us to Ohio. Then I was baffled as to how to return. I didn't have to be confused long because before I began looking at my options to return home, a friend called and told me that she and her husband wanted to come and get us. Talk about Jesus in action - those friends are definitely walking the walk and talking the talk.

I'm still not used to the fact that my mother is dead. When I returned home from my two weeks in Ohio for her funeral, I picked up the phone to call and let her know I made it home safely. I've actually started to call her quite a bit. There are some things in life you don't "get" until you experience them and I believe losing a mother - the woman who gave you life is one of them.

Keep my family in your prayers!

My mother 16 years old.

My mother on our horse, Angel.

Me and my mother (she was visiting me at college).

Me and my mother at my wedding.

My mother and my daughter at one of our annual trips to the National Zoo.

My mom and Aunt Rebbie last summer.

Still kicking...

2009-09-18T23:39:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to touch base to let anyone who might stumble over know that I'm still kicking, but not posting too much. Life is busy and full with a nine month old and two older children. On Monday we returned from visiting my family for 10 days. It was so nice to see everyone and for the kids to get to spend time with family too.

My little one started walking on the 17th - she took 6 steps one time. It will be a while before she is walking all the time, but it's fun to watch her change and develop. She popped a new tooth today also. The older kids are having so much fun playing with the baby. They are all treasures.

ONE MILLION NEW TESTAMENTS!

2009-08-14T14:09:00.002-04:00

I received the following exciting email from Tom White (Bibles Unbound) that I wanted to share:

August 13, 2009

On Aug. 5, Bibles Unbound reached an exciting milestone with the shipment of the ONE MILLIONTH NEW TESTAMENT! That New Testament, bound for China, was sponsored through our virtual mailing program by BU participant Mary in Crane, Texas.

In February 2006, VOM launched a project to let Christians like you send New Testaments into restricted nations — places where our brothers and sisters cannot simply go to a Christian bookstore and pick up a copy of the Bible. Our persecuted brothers and sisters joined in the project by collecting names and addresses of those who would be blessed by receiving God's Word. Our readers responded excitedly, and New Testaments began to go out from every part of the United States to hostile nations all over the world.

With your help, in just 42 months we have shipped the story of God's love for all mankind and his free offer of salvation through Christ to non-believers in several restricted nations.

Bibles Unbound is a team effort, and God has called together a wonderful team. We are so grateful to believers like you all across the United States who have provided New Testaments to people in countries such as Colombia, China, North Korea and Egypt. We are also thankful to the faithful Christians living inside these restricted and hostile nations who take great risks to supply names and addresses of those needing God's Word. With both standard and covert operations, Bibles Unbound is a unique tool to spread the gospel inside restricted nations.

If you have mailed or sponsored New Testaments, THANK YOU for helping reach this great milestone!

If you want to become part of this incredible ministry, please consider joining Bibles Unbound today. You can join us for future milestones of getting God's Word into hostile countries: 2 million....10 million...and more! To God be the glory! You can sign up, or simply get more information, at www.BiblesUnbound.com.

With God's help, BU has reached an incredible milestone. But millions of people around the world are still waiting. Will you help get the word of God to them?

For Those in Bonds,
Tom White VOM Executive Director

If you would like to view a list of resources on the persecuted church and online specials from VOM, please visit www.VOMBooks.com. This online offer is being presented by The Voice of the Martyrs. For additional information, you may contact us by clicking here or calling our order line at 800-747-0085.

McGruff House

2009-08-13T15:33:00.002-04:00

Has anyone heard of the McGruff House Program? Recently we went to National Night Out in our city and learned about the McGruff House. After being interviewed by the police and having a criminal background check you are given a sign to put in your window identifying your home as a safe haven for children who are lost or in danger. Read More

McGruff House — National Crime Prevention Council

Moms in Touch

2009-08-03T16:13:00.002-04:00

I just found out about a new prayer group called Moms in Touch. Check out their website for more information about becoming a part of a worldwide community of mothers praying for children and schools. They have tons of resources to guide women as they pray for children.

Full Speed Ahead...

2009-07-23T01:06:00.005-04:00

Life has been busy and full over the past several months... We finished a week of VBS (the oldest two absolutely loved it and the youngest was there for the ride - literally in my sling). Then we headed off for my in-laws this past week. We had a fabulous time. Much of our time was spent at an amazing water park - the kids (and me too) wished we could live there.

Our smallest treasure is already seven months old and thinks she is the Queen of the World (she hasn't read any blogs yet or she would know that title was already taken). She has no fear, she climbs anything and everything near her and she thinks she can walk, unfortunately whenever she takes a step or two she falls, but she gets right back up and tries again - lessons we can learn from little ones. At the water park she (all 25" of her) would boldly walk into the waves (holding my hands) without a care in the world.

Now we are home getting settled and starting new projects...

Independence Day

2009-07-04T23:52:00.001-04:00

Happy Independence Day!

Still Kicking...

2009-06-16T00:00:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to stop in and let you know that I'm still kicking if anyone is even there. I'm sure most have given up on me by now. Time is flying and I have much going on - with little time to post. When things slow down I will post more...

My little one is mobile and so fun to chase. We are homeschooling year round so there really isn't going to be much of a let up in the coming weeks. Pray I have wisdom and strength...

No Rest Without Work

2009-06-05T17:10:00.000-04:00

Another chapter - No Rest Without Work - in Boyhood and Beyond by Bob Schultz has some thought provoking questions. I will share a few from page 149.

What work has someone done for you that allows you to rest?

What is the purpose of rest?

What job can you do, right now, to give someone else some rest?

What would happen to a free country if people stopped working and expected the government to provide for their needs?

Accountability Questions

2009-05-31T19:16:00.000-04:00

I bought a book for my husband and son called Boyhood and Beyond: Practical Wisdom for Becoming a Man by Bob Schultz and it has questions at the end of each chapter. Here is a sample from the chapter on temptation (page 61):

What invitations to do evil did you get today? Did you take any?

If you accept an evil invitation, what will happen to you?

When faced with a temptation, what question should you ask?

Did you accept any invitations to do good today?

These questions would be useful in an accountability situation for anyone.

Physical Challenge

2009-05-25T16:50:00.001-04:00

What's the biggest physical challenge you face? Weight? Body image? Injury or disease? What would it look like for you to take better care of your temple? What one step can you take today toward improving your physical health? Check out our daily exercise and diet plan at www.OneMonthToLive.com. You'll find daily encouragement and practical tools to support your new, healthy lifestyle.

~ One Month to Live by Kerry and Chris Shook p. 36

What Consumes You?

2009-05-23T12:21:00.002-04:00

What consumes most of your time each day?... What exactly consumes you at...?How meaningful is it? How satifying is it? How much of any given day do you spend doing only what you do best?

~ One Month to Live by Kerry & Chris Shook page 19

Biggest Regret?

2009-05-22T13:40:00.000-04:00

More from the book - One Month to Live by Kerry & Chris Shook...

Make It Last for Life

1. If you were certain your life as you know it would end in a few weeks, what would be your biggest regret? Why?

For more info g0 here.

Life

2009-05-20T01:33:00.005-04:00

I'm reading a new book entitled, One Month to Live: Thirty Days to a No-Regrets Life by Kerry & Chris Shook. This book asks the hard questions and challenges the reader to live as if life as we know it is about to end. Over the next little while I will share some of the questions asked in the book...

Are you doing anything in your life right now that requires faith? If not, why not? Are you looking at life from God's perspective or from a ground-level perspective?

For more info go to the book's website.

I'm Still Here...

2009-05-18T22:31:00.003-04:00

Hello to anyone who might possibly pop in... Just wanted to say that I'm still alive and well, just really busy with my life in the real world. I haven't had much time to blog or check blogs lately, but miss reading and writing blogs. I still try to post Scripture and Quotes to those blogs and to my Reading Room Blog, but haven't been as faithful here because this one takes the most effort...

My kids are doing well (although sick with allergy issues now) and the baby is growing so fast - 5 1/2 months old - where has the time gone?

Keep me in your prayers that I am the wife and mother that God wants me to be.

Thanks!

Mideast Geography Lesson

2009-05-07T18:46:00.005-04:00

Yesterday a friend told me about a cool tool that can help us to learn the countries in the middle east. Did you know "the Middle East" stretches as far west as the Western Sahara in Africa? What is the smallest Middle Eastern country?

Go to this site and drag the country's name onto the map where you think it belongs. There is no score nor time limit, but rather this exercise is a learning tool. Once you finish the puzzle, do it again and again until you can do it without a miss. You will be far more educated about this very intense part of our world.

For more educational tools go to World Atlas or CIA World Factbook,

Clip art provided by www.worldatlas.com

National Day of Prayer

2009-04-23T09:43:00.004-04:00

The theme for this year's National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 7 is Prayer ... America's Hope! It's based on Psalm 33:22, which says, "May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You."

To learn more visit National Day of Prayer website.

I hope you will join with millions of other Americans on Thursday, May 7th, to observe the 58th annual National Day of Prayer.

Free Stuff - Tax Day

2009-04-15T13:15:00.004-04:00

For a little savings today check out these national deals... Be sure to check with your local restaurants as not all may participate. Our local Chick-fil-A isn't participating today, but they are on April 28th.

Chick-fil-A - Visit a participating restaurant April 15 and hang onto your receipt. The “Tax Relief Day Special” lets you return before April 30 to receive the same order for free.

Cinnabon - Stop by Cinnabon from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 15 for free cinnamon-roll bites (regularly $2.49 for four).

Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream and Treatery - On April 15, get one free scoop of ice cream.

T.G.I. Friday’s - On April 15, diners receive a $5 gift card when they spend $15 to $25. They earn a $10 card for a purchase of more than $25.

For more savings go here.

A Walk in the Park

2009-04-14T23:03:00.002-04:00

If only life were this simple... Two of my children walking through a peaceful park exploring and enjoying God's creation. My youngest slept in a stroller as I pushed her along the way.

Babies X 3 Again

2009-03-26T00:07:00.004-04:00

February 8, 2009 - James (13 weeks), my little lady (9 weeks) and John (13 weeks). This picture was taken on the boys last Sunday at church before they moved to Tennessee.

Be-A-Voice

2009-03-12T10:00:00.005-04:00

Our Brothers and Sisters Around the World Are Suffering for Their Faith. BE THEIR VOICE. Volunteer with www.Be-A-Voice.net

It's as simple as sharing current prayer requests. Encouraging others to write to Christians imprisoned for their faith. And requesting complimentary copies of Tortured for Christ for those who want to learn more.

When you join VOM's new Be-A-Voice Network you will receive FREE online access to prayer bulletins, prisoner profile sheets and the ability to request free copies of Tortured for Christ for your Christian friends.

By becoming a member, you make a commitment to continue making the message of today's persecuted church known through prayer, education and practical involvement.

Volunteer for VOM in Your Local Church and Community. » JOIN NOW at www.Be-A-Voice.net

If you would like to view a list of resources on the persecuted church and online specials from VOM, please visit www.VOMBooks.com.

This online offer is being presented by The Voice of the Martyrs. For additional information, you may contact us by clicking here or calling our order line at 800-747-0085.

~ taken from an email from Voice of the Martyrs

Life or Death

2009-02-28T23:50:00.005-05:00

This evening I read a great post regarding life and death on Randy Alcorn's blog as I held my precious daughter, a miracle of life. Randy posted a video of an incredibly, articulate, 12 year old young lady who shared her beliefs in her seventh grade class. Wow! Check out this post for more...

Babies X 3

2009-02-17T19:20:00.006-05:00

My friend, Carolyn took this picture on January 4, 2009, the day of my daughter's dedication with her two friends, James and John. My little one was 5 weeks old and the boys were 9 weeks old. They have all changed so much, since this photo was taken. Aaron, Lynetta, James and John have moved back to their home in Tennessee, so we will miss our times together. We did a duplicate of this picture on February 8 and I will post it when Lynetta emails it to me, once they are settled in their new home.

Support a Worker of the Underground Church

2009-02-11T21:48:00.005-05:00

The Voice of the Martyrs has just received new information from our field workers about 300 pastors, evangelists and lay workers ministering in restricted nations, such as China, Nigeria and Sudan, who are in great need of support.

Many of these church leaders spend most of their day laboring to provide for their families. But they would like to dedicate much more of their time to courageously spreading the gospel and ministering to the needs of other Christians in their communities. Even at great risks, they desire to spend their days serving the Kingdom.

We invite you to prayerfully consider supporting one of these indigenous workers today. When you offer support, you are partnering with them on the mission field and sharing in building the Kingdom. A commitment of $35 a month for one year will go a long way to provide for their basic needs and help them to minister more effectively.

» Click here to learn more.

The Voice of the Martyrs' official homepage
Learn about Christians who suffer for their faith around the world, and find out how you can stand with them. http://www.persecution.com/

If you would like to view a list of resources on the persecuted church and online specials from VOM, please visit http://www.vombooks.com/.

This online offer is being presented by The Voice of the Martyrs. For additional information, you may contact us by clicking here or calling our order line at 800-747-0085.

~ taken from an email received from The Voice of the Martyrs.

How much would you sell Jesus for?

2009-02-05T22:00:00.004-05:00

I received the story below in an email - not sure if it's a true story or not, but it's definitely worth pondering...

Several years ago, a preacher from out-of-state accepted a call to a church in Houston, Texas. Some weeks after he arrived, he had an occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change. As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, 'You'd better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it.' Then he thought, 'Oh, forget it, it's only a quarter. Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet.

When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, and then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, 'Here, you gave me too much change

'The driver, with a smile, replied, 'Aren't you the new preacher in town?''

Yes' he replied.'

Well, I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change. I'll see you at church on Sunday.

When the preacher stepped off of the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on, and said, 'Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter.

~ author unknown

C X 10

2009-02-03T16:18:00.003-05:00

Kay posted this meme on her blog and invited others to join her and I decided to play. She assigned me the letter C. If you would like to play along, leave a comment and I will give you a letter.

Ten things I like that start with C

1. Christ and His Church - my church is family.

2. Cuddling with my sweet new baby - I don't know how I'm getting anything else done.

3. Children - I'm blessed with three of my own!!

4. Compassion - both giving and receiving. I especially love seeing compassion in my children.

5. Christmas - such a beautiful time of year.

6. Cranberry Salad – my dad’s recipe - I really enjoy it usually at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but I'd eat it year round if I could find fresh cranberries.

7. Cheese and Crackers - bring me some sharp cheese and yummy crackers and I'll be happy.

8. Cameras - only when I’m taking the pictures. Unfortunately I've lost my ability to get the pictures in my albums over the last couple years...

9. Chocolate (dark) - I'm not a huge chocolate person, but when I eat it I prefer it as dark as I can get it. If I'm feeling stressed slowly eating a piece of dark chocolate calms me down.

10. Colossians - the book of the Bible - has many Scriptures I love.

Still here...

2009-01-31T00:23:00.003-05:00

Greetings! Nothing profound here - just a quick shout out to say hello. I've been busy with being a new mom again. My little sweetheart celebrated two months being here with us yesterday. Time sure flies. She is so precious and greatly loved by all who know her especially her sister and brother. I'm busy with homeschooling and taking care of my newest treasure.

I will be back to posting more here as time allows and will try to catch up with blog reading as well. I've been keeping up with posting daily Scriptures and quotes on those blogs and posting about my journey to fitting my jeans again (as well as other topics) on my Healthy Living blog. My Reading Room blog is also seeing fewer posts because I haven't had as much time to read, but plan to post more when I am able.

Keep me in your prayers that I'm able to do the things that are most important each day.

A Lesson on Life

2009-01-20T10:00:00.001-05:00

A friend sent me this article published on January 4, 2009 for the Free Lance-Star about a young couple that attends her church. It's heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.

http://fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2009/012009/01042009/435541/index_html

Praying Through the First 100 Days

2009-01-19T08:00:00.001-05:00

SIGN UP NOW for the“Praying Through the First 100 Days” prayer e-mail series.

Inauguration Day 2009. It’s an historic day for every American as Barack Obama takes the Oath of Office as the 44th President of the United States.
And it’s a sacred day - one in which we hope you’ll join us in a new and vital daily prayer experience.

We are launching our “Praying Through the First 100 Days” daily prayer devotional series, enabling you to intercede every day for President Obama, his family and the new administration during his first 100 days in office.
The challenges before President Obama and the new administration are daunting. The worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Two ongoing wars on terror. Joblessness on the rise. A nation facing incredible uncertainty…

Never has our president and our nation needed MORE PRAYER. And never has The Presidential Prayer Team been more ready to champion that prayer than with“Praying Through the First 100 Days”

These e-mails enable you to:

Pray in a systematic and orderly way, starting with worship of our mighty God and moving to specific concerns, and…
Easily and effectively set your mind and heart to pray daily for issues that may not occur to you.

View a sample of Praying Through the First 100 Days here.

Sign up for “Praying Through the First 100 Days.” Join us as together we pray fervently and passionately for our new president, his family and administration. Thank you!

John Lind
President/CEO

BY THE WAY - If this email was forwarded to you and you are not a member of The Presidential Prayer Team, we encourage you to officially join our team. Membership is free, and you enjoy a variety of benefits when you sign up.

Become a PPT Member here.

~ above email taken from an email received from the Presidential Prayer Team

Sanctity of Human Life Sunday

2009-01-18T00:16:00.002-05:00

January 18 is Sanctity of Human Life Sunday

In 1983, an organization now known as Care Net asked President Ronald Reagan to create a special day to focus on the intrinsic value of human life. That same year, Reagan issued a proclamation establishing a National Sanctity of Human Life Sunday.

This year's Sanctity of Human Life Sunday is January 18. Please take an opportunity this weekend to consider how God may be calling you to, as President Reagan's proclamation put it, "care for the lives and freedoms of even the weakest of our fellow human beings."

~ above info taken from Randy Alcorn's website

National Day of Service

2009-01-15T10:11:00.015-05:00

January 19, 2009 is the National Day of Service. January is also "Volunteer Month." There are many ways we can donate our time and energy to good causes. Consider donating food to food banks, clothing, and baby supplies to crisis pregnancy centers, and you can even give your blood, etc. Think about ways you can contribute or give back to your community. Many schools require community service hours from their students, maybe you could join the kids of your community by doing likewise.

There are several opportunities listed on my sidebar - one section is listed under the heading "Do Something that Matters" - scroll down to check it out on the right.

Last night at church our Bible study was on Matthew 25. Every time I read that passage of Scripture I think of "I Was Hungry."

I Was Hungry...

I was hungry and you formed a humanities group to discuss my hunger.

I was imprisonedand you crept off quietly to your chapel and prayed for my release.

I was naked and in your mind you debated the morality of my appearance.

I was sick and you knelt and thanked God for your health.

I was homeless andyou preached to me the spiritual love of God.

I was lonely and you left me alone to pray for me.

You seem so holy, so close to God,
But I am still very hungry --and lonely --and cold.

~ found at the Oak Street House Exhibit at a missions and ministry conference in San Diego.

My kids love to shovel snow (we haven't had any yet this winter) and to collect trash along side of the road.

Please share in the comments section ways that you give back to your community or donate your time - not to brag or toot your own horn, but to share ideas with others.

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."~ Colossians 3:17

I Wish

2009-01-02T13:47:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I was listening to a Christian music radio station (something I rarely do because I usually listen to CD's or the music on my blogs) and I heard this song by Point of Grace...

Point of Grace has a place on their website where people are posting their wishes - go here.

In case you can't watch the video - here are the lyrics.

Prayer: The Most Beautiful Gift

2008-12-15T20:48:00.007-05:00

I recently received one of the most touching gifts for my precious baby daughter. I will cherish the card that came with it until the day I pass it along to my daughter in her scrapbook.

"Enclosed is a blanket I made for J. The funny thing is that I finished it on November 30th (the date of her birth). Each time I sat down to crochet I would say a prayer for J regarding a certain aspect of her life. I prayed for her health as a fetus, her birth, her immunizations, her teeth, her bones, organs and development. I prayed for her infancy, her toddlerhood, her youth, her schooling. I prayed for the Special Spiritual gift God would give her and that she would come to know Him early. The outer layers of the blanket represent time spent praying for her future spouse, her marriage and ultimately her children. Each stitch was done in love. I sat at God's feet asking for blessing upon blessing for J, you, Rick and your other children. May God hear each word that was prayed on your daughter's behalf."

What a beautiful gift! Thank you so much to the special one who spent time in prayer for my newborn and family. I am greatly touched by your love and commitment to prayer! Thank you!

I encourage others to consider the gift of prayer my daughter and family received when sharing of their love while gift giving whether it be for baby gifts, Christmas or birthdays. Telling the person of your prayers in a written note (like my friend did) takes the gift to the next level because your note will remind the person of your prayers each time the note is read. Giving should always be bathed in prayer!

Again thank you to this special person!!

Edited December 21, 2008 to add:

I was just reading at Tiffany's blog and found a great quote on prayer that goes well with this post...

"If we truly love people, we will desire for them far more than it is within our power to give them, and this will lead us to prayer. Intercession is a way of loving others."

~ Richard Foster, quoted from Prayer

I'm Still Here...

2008-12-11T18:04:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to say that I'm still among the living, but am spending most of my computer time snuggling with a little sweetie pie. I'm also homeschooling my older two children as well. I want to share some really neat things surrounding the birth of my daughter, but finding the time to sit down and coherently type them up is proving to be a challenge... soon I hope...

Having this precious little bundle makes me wish I had 10 more :) Babies are absolutely INCREDIBLE! I'm snuggling as I type now...

Yesterday I started trying to catch up with blogs, but it will take a while. If you are on my list of blogs I follow know that I will eventually get back to checking once we have our routine established. Now my routine is feeding the baby, changing the baby and snuggling with the baby :) Of course the other two fight me for snuggling rights. They are both in love with their new sister. Everyone was worried about my son when they found out the baby was a girl, but he's absolutely crazy about her and is already a terrific big brother. My daughter is enamored with her too.

Welcome to Our World

2008-11-30T03:01:00.000-05:00

Early this morning at 12:40 am - I gave birth to a precious baby girl. She weighed in at 8 lbs 2 0z and was 19 1/4 inches long. More info when I get home.

WARNING: ADVENT VIRUS

2008-11-30T02:00:00.000-05:00

The Advent Virus

Be on the alert for symptoms of inner Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. The hearts of a great many have already been exposed to this virus and it is possible that people everywhere could come down with it in epidemic proportions. This could pose a serious threat to what has, up to now, been a fairly stable condition of conflict in the world.

Some signs and symptoms of The Advent Virus:
A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experiences.

An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.

A loss of interest in judging other people.

A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others.

A loss of interest in conflict.

A loss of the ability to worry. (This is a very serious symptom.)

Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation.

Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature.
Frequent attacks of smiling.

An increasing tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen.

An increased susceptibility to the love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to extend it.

This virus can and has affected many systems. Some systems have been completely cleaned out because of it.

~ Anonymous via email

Dental Conversation between me and my five year old son...

2008-11-25T17:00:00.004-05:00

Before I decided to go to college to become a counselor, I went to the vocational school for my junior year in high school and completed the dental assistant training one semester and medical assistant training the second. I probably would have gone on to be a RN had it not been for my spinal surgery (right before my junior year of HS) that left me very weak physically for the next year. I was unsure that I could keep up with the physical demands of the program for my senior year, so I went back to my high school and finished up with college prep studies.

Since I spent so much time learning about teeth in high school, I tend to call teeth by their proper names even now. This morning my five year old son lost his third tooth and I told a friend about it. She asked which tooth he lost and I said, "his right mandibular lateral incisor." If she wouldn't have been on the phone with me I probably would have been smacked.

After that I thought I need to educate my son, so I called him over and touched his bottom jaw and said, "This is your mandible." and then touched his top jaw and said "This is your maxillary jaw." Then I told him that the hole in his mouth once held his right mandibular lateral incisor. He looked at me with a straight, face and said, "Oh, I thought they were called teeth."

Not My Baby, But Precious

2008-11-19T17:19:00.007-05:00

A couple days after my friend, Lynetta gave birth to John 4 lbs 13 oz and James 5 lbs 8 oz, I was privileged to visit her and the boys at the hospital with another friend. Since John was able to come out of the isolette while we visited in the NICU, Lynetta asked if I would like to hold him. What a joy it was to hold a baby at the same gestational age as the one I carry within... While I was holding precious little John, my baby got feisty and started kicking him and he kicked right back. I told Lynetta that our babies were already fighting.

Here is a picture of James in his isolette.

Continue to pray for Lynetta, Aaron, John and James as they adapt to each other and develop their routines.

Challenges of Marriage

2008-11-17T20:00:00.000-05:00

Marriage – even the best marriages have challenges. When you take two people with different family backgrounds and experiences you are bound to have at least some conflict. I appreciate when people are real about their struggles because it helps the rest of us feel normal. When you look around the church and see all the happy, smiling people you could believe that they have no idea what it means to have a “discussion” about finances or about the best way to discipline the kids. We all walk through similar circumstances and can help each other by being honest about our struggles and successes. Sharing our testimony of God’s work in our lives could be the turning point or at least a slice of hope for another.

Someone close to me is in the process of going through a divorce and it breaks my heart to see this young family torn apart. One spouse sent me some information about marriage intensives and desires to save the marriage and family. They have young children the age of my children and it hurts to know that they are dealing with the pain of separation from one of their parents and that divorce is looming in the future. The problems the spouses are dealing with are definitely bigger than me and bigger than both of them. It appears that only one party is willing to attempt counseling, but God is bigger. Another hurdle is that marriage intensives and counseling in general are quite costly. HE can work a miracle in this situation that seems impossible. Please join me in praying for a miracle for this young, hurting family.

Is Your Marriage Fireproof?

2008-11-14T18:44:00.008-05:00

Today I read in a Family Christian Store catalog that Fireproof the DVD is coming soon on January 27, 2009 and if you pre-order you will receive a $43.98 value for $19.99. The package includes the Fireproof movie DVD, the movie soundtrack, and a Love and Respect DVD seminar. This could be a useful resource for couples, small groups or churches. Marriage is challenging and we can all benefit from resources to help us along the way. For more info go here. This offer is valid online and in stores while supplies last or until January 27th. If you haven't heard about the Fireproof movie check here.

Reminder - Operation Christmas Child

2008-11-10T08:42:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have decided to share your love and blessings with the Operation Christmas Child ministry this year, the national collection week is (next week) November 17-24, 2008. Just wanted to give you time to make your purchases and gather any information you need before the deadline. For more information - go here.

What is your vision for America?

2008-11-07T18:47:00.003-05:00

I was reading in a current events forum and came across at link that asks for our vision for the President Elect and how he should lead the country. I'm not sure what will happen with the ideas that are submitted, but it sounds good in theory. Submit your vision for America here. I'd also love to hear about your vision in the comments section.

Pray for Our Leaders

2008-11-05T23:17:00.013-05:00

This campaign/election process has been a long ride, but now it's history and we as Christians must unite (regardless of who you supported) and pray for our leaders. I've read several blogs that say it better than I could...

Randy Alcorn - It’s Over; but It’s not Over (one Day it will be)
Kay Day - The People Have Spoken
Robbie Iobst - Hope is a Good Thing
Tiffany Stuart - America's Choice My Response (go to post dated November 5)

I think its great when Christians can have different opinions and agree to disagree. Most importantly we need to unite in prayer! Check out the Presidential Prayer Team and commit to pray for President elect Obama. Go here to sign up to receive a 77 Days of Prayer for Our New President email in your inbox every morning until Inauguration Day, January 20. There is also a Presidential Prayer Kids page in case you have children who would like to join us in prayer (as of today it hasn't been updated, but hopefully soon will).

Scriptures to Consider:

Pray for those in Authority - 1 Timothy 2:1–2
Submission to the Authorities - Romans 13:1-3
Heal Our Land - 2 Chronicles 7:14-15

Join me in praying for our country and our leaders!

Election Day Freebies

2008-11-04T10:02:00.002-05:00

Krispy Kreme will celebrate National Election Day by offering all retail customers with an "I voted" sticker a free STAR shaped donut with patriotic sprinkles.

Starbucks - If you vote, Starbucks buys your coffee - On November 4, 2008, Starbucks will give voters a free tall brewed coffee at participating U.S. stores. After voting, voters must go to a Starbucks store, where they’ll be given a tall (12 oz) cup of brewed coffee at no charge (limit one per customer).

Ben & Jerry's - wants to celebrate democracy by giving out a free ice cream scoop from 5 to 8 pm today.

If you haven't voted, get out and vote because YOUR VOTE MATTERS!

Letter to Senator Obama

2008-11-03T00:02:00.000-05:00

My friend, Tiffany at Tea with Tiffany posted a letter to Senator Obama on her blog and she said it would be fine if others shared it too... so here it is:

Senator Obama, abortion is not a healthy choice for Americans. I am begging you to reconsider your position with this moral topic should you become our president.

I will try my best to put words to my "choice." Nineteen years old, I chose abortion. Sure, I could blame my boyfriend for not wanting the baby, but ultimately it was my choice. The worst choice I’ve ever made. I was too afraid to walk alone—pregnant.

In order to step into a cold, sterile abortion clinic, I had to emotionally die first. I don’t care what a woman’s beliefs are she cannot go through this procedure with a haunting that follows.

I know.

Sure, I tried to forget and move on with my life, but inside I couldn’t shake the reality of choosing death.

Death carries a sting.

Like a branding iron to my heart, I was wounded and forever scarred. Marked by my so called “choice.”

Senator Obama, you have two girls, can you honestly look into their eyes and say had they been conceived at a time other than your preferred choice that they don’t deserve a chance to live? a chance to change the world? to make a difference?

Senator Obama, have you ever sat through an abortion procedure? Have you seen the graphic images? Do you know how women are treated? Have you heard the moaning of a mom-to-be who sobbed for hours afterwards? What words could you possibly say to comfort her? None. The river of regret and shame runs too deep for words to penetrate.

I know.

Senator Obama, are you aware of Post-Abortion Syndrome(PAS)? Are you willing to comfort your girls should they decide to choose abortion someday? Because should abortion still be legal and an option, they will suffer. Even if from the outside she appears like she made it through unscathed, she is not okay. Something is bleeding underneath the surface.

I know.

My decision from almost two decades ago affected my marriage bed and relationship, my emotional well being every fall (the time of year I had my abortion), my ability to look deeply into the eyes of a newborn, and the way I morally view myself. It's a choice that keeps on giving. Giving death!

This “choice” comes with a price tag. A price tag I don’t want one more woman to pay.

Every woman who has had an abortion will one day have to look honestly into her reflection of her choices. Choosing death is not an image she should have look at and carry in her heart.

Choosing life is an image worth gazing at. Watching a baby grow up is an amazing experience.

I know.

My two children, Justin and Hannah, are nothing but gifts to me. Not mistakes. Not punishment. Nothing can replace their faces, voices, words, tears, smiles, giggles, songs, talents, or their caring hearts. Their lives are impressed deeply into my heart. And so is a baby who never had a chance. A baby I love and will never forget. A baby named “Grace.”

Tiffany Stuart

Thank you, Tiffany for sharing your heart so openly. You are brave and I appreciate your honesty and vulnerability! Thank you!

Trunk or Treat

2008-11-01T08:42:00.007-04:00

I was uncertain how what my family would do on Halloween four years ago because I wasn't sure how I felt about celebrating that day, but found out about an alternative celebration at an area church that was open to the community called Trunk or Treat. It was really neat to give the kids a chance to dress up (they love dressing up even now four years later and not just on October 31). I've never bought costumes - we've just always used their dress up clothes. This year was the first time I went to so much effort to dress them up, but it was great fun!

Last night I took them to trunk or treat at a local Methodist Church again and they went as election booths. Half the costume was red and the other half was blue. The front said voting booth with McCain on the right side and Obama on the left side. Half the box was dedicated to McCain and the other half to Obama with propaganda from each on their side.

Picture taken by my friend Cheryl

Everyone loved their costumes. I told people they could vote early and often (early because its early and often because it was two kids). Perfect strangers were stopping us and asking for pictures of the kids. I was sitting on a bale of hay between my two kids and one man walked up and asked if I was Sarah Palin (obviously he was blind, but it was fun). We never had so much fun or attention at trunk or treat. I don't think we ever got so much candy either because people were putting extra candy in their candidates slot and the people who didn't want to reveal their candidate put candy in both slots. Several people went crazy stuffing the slot of their choice.

Need More Sleep?

2008-10-31T07:46:00.001-04:00

Daylight Savings Time ends on November 2 (for a large portion of the USA), so many of us will get to sleep an extra hour Saturday night. The official time change time is Sunday, November 2nd at 2 am. Of course if you want extra sleep I recommend changing your clock before bed :)

It's also a good time to change/check the batteries in your smoke detector. Our local fire fighters encourage the community to change their batteries twice a year for maximum effectiveness of our smoke detectors.

Special Prayer Request

2008-10-28T10:10:00.005-04:00

Please be in special prayer for my friend, Lynetta who is pregnant with twin boys - her due date is December 6. On Friday, October 24th her water broke for baby A. They admitted her to the hospital for close monitoring. This morning some complications arose and they moved her back to labor and delivery. Her doctor said she will have the babies one way or another TODAY! They aren't sure whether the placenta has detached or not - once they know they will do what needs to be done for the safe arrival of James and John. If everything is okay with the placenta they will start her on Pitocin to get labor moving. Please pray! I will update in the comments section as I hear from Lynetta.

Prayer Request

2008-10-23T19:21:00.004-04:00

Pray for me - I've had a hard day - really exhausted and have been having Braxton Hicks contractions all day long - too early for labor - still have six weeks to go as of Saturday. I'm trying to get ready for the floor guy to come and install a new kitchen floor tomorrow along with my normal responsibilities and I'm worn out. I'm babysitting right now and as soon as the parents get here I'm taking a nice shower and hoping that will make me feel better. Thanks for your prayers!

Discernment Tests

2008-10-18T19:51:00.003-04:00

My friend, Carla sent me a neat email and I thought it would be beneficial to share with others too. Carla was my room-mate in college and she has interesting perspective on life (that we could all learn from) because she grew up as a missionary kid in South America. Her pastor preached a sermon a couple weeks ago that included the following:

1. The World Test – (Does it make you part of the world?)

2. The Quality Test – (Is it good for you?)

3. The Temple Test – (Your body is God’s temple. Is it good for your temple?)

4. The Glory Test – (Does it glorify God?)

5. The Blessings Test – (Can I ask God’s blessing on it?)

6. The Reputation Test – (Will it damage my testimony?)

7. The Consideration Test – (How will it affect others?)

8. The Appearance Test – (Will it look bad or immodest?)

9. The Weight Test – (Will this hold me back from doing God’s will and running the race?)

10. The Coming of Christ Test – (If Christ came back while I was doing this would I be ashamed?)

11. The Companion Test – (Can I invite Christ to be with me?)

12. The Peace Test – (Do I have perfect peace after praying about it?)

Remember: There are some sins that even when they are forgiven you will still carry the scars.

Operation Christmas Child

2008-10-14T21:49:00.006-04:00

As the Christmas holidays quickly approach, I wanted to take the time to share about a ministry that my church enjoys participating in - Operation Christmas Child. Basically what we do is collect shoe boxes (adult male shoe boxes work best) and fill them with goodies that a child would appreciate receiving at Christmas. It breaks my heart realizing that the gifts I can squeeze into this little box may be all this particular child receives for Christmas. My children love to go shopping with me to select gifts for a child of their age. It's a great project for young and old to join together and share their blessings with others.

From the Samaritan's Purse Web site:

Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God’s love. Since 1993, more than 61 million shoe boxes have been packed, shipped, and delivered across the globe. People of all ages can be involved in this simple, hands-on missions project while focusing on the true meaning of Christmas—Jesus Christ.

National Collection Week is November 17-24.

How to pack a shoe box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Samaritan's Purse

For more information you can contact Samaritan's Purse by calling (828) 262-1980 or checking their website.

Four, Four, Four, Four...

2008-10-04T14:38:00.007-04:00

Kay from Loop de Loops in La La Land (love the name) tagged me with a Four Meme. Kay's blog is one of the first blogs I started reading when I began this blogging journey.

Four, Four, Four, Four...

A) Four places that I go to over and over:

Church, library, grocery store and the bathroom (I’m 7 months pg)

B) Four people who e-mail me:

Katie, family, Carol, my Pastor

C) Four of my favorite places to eat:

Panera Bread, Logans, Sweetwater, and home

D) Four places I would rather be right now:

Sleeping comfortably, Getting a massage, With my daughter reading a book at Panera Bread by the fireplace, With a friend having fun

E) Four people I am tagging: You can answer here in the comments section or on your own blog.

Tammy Bowers, Renee, Faith, and Jel

F) Four TV shows I watch:

None anymore, I spend my free time reading books and blogs.

So I’ll change the question – Four Blogs I read (I'm so cheating on this question because I can't list just four) These 13 blogs (in four categories - does that count for anything?) are all unique, bring smiles, and are thought provoking:

Kay’s – 1, 2, 3 (and her family – 1 - Julie, 2 - Kay's Mom, 3 - Jen, and 4 - Jen's Mom), Choices are Mine, Carol’s 1,2, 3, 4, and Life Adapted

Special Prayer Request

2008-10-01T09:18:00.007-04:00

Please pray for my little friend, Suzanne (9 months old). She is having surgery this afternoon at 12:30 (Eastern Time). Nearly two weeks ago she was rushed to the hospital via ambulance when she stopped breathing while eating. She has several medical issues. Once they stabilized her they transported her via helicopter to a bigger and better hospital where she is now. She is scheduled to have two surgeries today and possibly a third depending on how things go.

I will update in the comments section when I hear from her mom how surgery went later today! Pray also for her parents and big brother. Thank you for your prayers!

Fireproof the Movie Opened Today

2008-09-26T17:19:00.002-04:00

I haven't seen it yet, but Fireproof opened in theaters today. Sounds like an excellent movie. For more info go here.

Baby Update - 77 days and Counting

2008-09-20T11:30:00.009-04:00

I saw my OB yesterday afternoon and had my 1 hour glucose test done. W hen I get the results I will most likely just add them in the comments section. Since it was late afternoon, I had to take the kids with me. Fortunately everything went well and there were no problems with bringing them.

My doctor said everything is going great. The only note of concern she had (not really just something she mentioned) was that I'm measuring two weeks bigger than I should be. She already moved my due date a week earlier than the first date they gave me at the beginning of the pregnancy. One concern that I failed to mention (having the kids there kept me from thinking I guess) is that I'm having significant lower back pain almost constantly now. (77 days until the due date)

I've always suffered with lower back pain due to my scoliosis. However I've noticed that when I'm consistent with exercise I can usually manage my pain. When I'm not pregnant and I'm in a lot of pain I take 800 mg of Ibuprofen, use lots of heat, and wear my brace (none of which I can do now). Sometimes I have back pain that makes sense - when I make a bad decision thinking I can do something that I shouldn't do. Now, I think its from the extra weight that I'm carrying out in front. I'm in a lot of pain after sitting for a while or sleeping. The pregnancy belt I'm using offers minimal relief.

The doctor wants to see me again in two weeks and she said she will do a sonogram then because she wants to see how big the baby is. So pray that I can find ways to minimize the back pain.

On a positive note - I seem to be on the road to recovery from my sinus infection. I finished my antibiotic on Thursday and continue to flush using a Neti Pot - very odd and a bit gross, but quite helpful.

Bibles Unbound

2008-09-20T06:11:00.002-04:00

I have another compassionate ministries opportunity that I would like to share and it's Bible's Unbound - A Ministry of Voice of the Martyrs. I was just browsing the Bible's Unbound website and saw that 68,615 people are waiting for Bibles. How many Bibles are in your home now? I have more than I use at this time - just to name a few, a Women's Devotional Bible, a Serendipity New Testament (that I used in college), a Parallel KJV/NIV I received from my Dad for my 17th birthday, and many more. It saddens my heart to know that so many people are hungering and thirsting for what is available so easily to me not to mention the click of my keyboard brings up the Bible in whatever translation I desire.

WHAT IF...

you could share God's Word with people in countries like China, Egypt and Colombia as easily as putting a stamp on a Bible and sending it?

Through Bibles Unbound, YOU CAN!

Members receive five or more New Testaments each month, along with all the necessary postage and packaging. Bible mailings can then be monitored online. Don't miss this opportunity to begin mailing God's Word into restricted nations RIGHT FROM YOUR OWN HOME.

(Members commit to a monthly donation for $30 for 5 New Testaments.)

Simply call The Voice of the Martyrs at 800-747-0085 to receive your Bibles Unbound Information Pack.

For more information check the Bible's Unbound website.

"Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the Word of God is not bound"
~ 2 Timothy 2:9

All info in italics used by Permission of Voice of the Martyrs.

Every Bag Has a Purpose

2008-09-19T21:35:00.006-04:00

Who Get's Action Packs?

Christians in restricted nations endure hardship and suffering to follow Christ. Many live in poverty and want because of oppression and discrimination in their countries. For these believers, an Action Pack represents a great material blessing. But more importantly, it reminds them they are not forgotten.

Where are Action Packs Delivered?

The Voice of the Martyrs delivers Action Packs in countries where our contacts have identified Christians that will be greatly blessed by receipt of the packs. You may designate your Action Pack for: Iraq, Pakistan/Afghanistan or Sudan. check www.persecution.com/actionpacks for the latest country information.

Why Send Action Packs?

Action Packs provide vital, practical help to Christians in need in restricted nations. But more than physical blessings, an Action Pack brings spiritual encouragement that these believers are not forgotten, that their suffering is not going unnoticed.

The Action Pack also provides an important way of spreading the gospel: every time an Action Pack is delivered, a Gospel book or audio recording is delivered along with it.

How Do I Get Involved?

It is simple to order an Action Pack. Call 800-747-0085 to order by phone. You can also order online. Please enclose $7 for each Action Pack you order. This covers the cost of the bag and the cost to ship it overseas. You are responsible for the shipping cost to mail the filled bag to VOM.

Once the Action Packs arrive at your home, simply fill them with articles from the list printed on the bag. You may also choose to enclose an encouraging note or a family picture. Then, return the bag to The Voice of the Martyrs, where it will be sorted for delivery.

"In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." James 2:17

All information used by Permission of Voice of the Martyrs.

Blanket and a Bible

2008-09-18T10:01:00.012-04:00

Sudanese Christians live a simple lifestyle, owning few or no material possessions. However, some items are essential to their survival. One blanket can make a difference.

To date, more than 250,000 blankets have been delivered. We are thankful to many American Christians who have given blankets, but more are needed.

Taking part in VOM's Sudan: Blanket and a Bible outreach is as easy as 1-2-3:

1. Collect good quality, new or used blanket(s)

2. Add $2 per blanket for handling, shipping into Sudan.

3. VOM will add a He Lived Among Us illustrated Bible storybook.

4. Send blankets and collected funds to:

"Sudan: Blanket and a Bible"
The Voice of the Martyrs
510 W. Adeline
Bartlesville, OK 74003

The Voice of the Martyrs Free Subscription Offer!

To receive your FREE subscription to the VOM Magazine, call 800-747-0085. Or write to The Voice of the Martyrs, PO Box 443, Bartlesville, OK 74005. Or go to their website.

Those who request the free monthly newsletter will also receive a Global Prayer Map highlighting the countries where our brothers and sisters now suffer for their faith in Jesus Christ.

All information used with permission of Voice of the Martyrs.

SPECIAL Prayer Request

2008-09-17T16:18:00.005-04:00

A friend of mine asked for prayer for a man she works with and his wife. The 35 year old wife's name is Mary/Hyatt. Last week, Mary/Hyatt went into cardiac arrest and her situation is grave. Even if she comes out of the coma the doctors aren't sure she will make it. She has a 3 year old and a four month old (still breast-feeding) . From what I understand the baby rejected the formula initially, but is doing well now. Please pray for the family!

Updated 9-19-08

For more info check this blog.

God's Presence and Work in Your Life

2008-09-16T10:43:00.004-04:00

A good while back I read a book, Opening Windows: Spiritual Refreshment for Your Walk with Christ compiled by Mary Fairchild with entries written by a number of well-known Christian authors and speakers. Each chapter was followed with questions that encourage contemplation. Below is one of them. Feel free to share some, all, or none of your answers in the comments section. Regardless of whether you share ask yourself these questions and allow God to work in your life.

Reflect on God's presence and work in your life yesterday. What meaning do you see in your work, your conversations, and your activities? Then write a four-sentence prayer that includes adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication.

~ taken from Opening Windows p. 111

Remember 9-11

2008-09-11T15:06:00.003-04:00

This picture was taken on October 27, 2001 in Arlington, VA at the Pentagon.

September 11, 2001 was a beautiful September day. I prepared breakfast for my husband and one year old daughter and left them watching Veggie Tales. I hurried off to work (part time billing job) at a friend's house. I hadn't turned on the TV or radio yet and was listening to Christian music on a cassette tape. I was feeling great. The tape ended, so I popped it out and the news came on from the radio saying something about the third catastrophe of the day. I was confused because I had no idea there had been any problem yet. The newscaster said something about the Pentagon being under attack as he spoke. I ran into Dianna's (my boss and friend) house and said do you have a TV somewhere that we can watch? She looked at me perplexed (it wasn't like me to rush in and ask for a TV, usually I just went straight to my computer after a quick hello. I told her what I had heard and we both rushed to her family room and sat transfixed in front of the TV for a long time as we watched the twin towers crumble and other horrible things I don't care to repeat. Needless to say, I don't think either of us got any work done that morning. I tried calling my husband and all circuits were busy. We didn't know what was coming next, so Dianna sent me home to my husband and baby.

About six weeks after that horrific day, we traveled to the Pentagon where the clean-up was well under way. There were still people all over the place mourning for the lost lives on September 11th. Today 9-11-08 they dedicated the September 11 memorial at the Pentagon, I wasn't there, but I watched the ceremony on TV this morning.

Where were you on September 11, 2001? Do you have any memories you care to share?

We must all be ready to meet Jesus at any time because there isn't one of us who knows what the next moment holds. We can trust HIM with our lives no matter what!

Quick Update

2008-09-08T21:03:00.000-04:00

I haven't been on the computer too much lately for a couple reasons. This weekend we suffered some damage to our house and I've been very busy trying to get everything in order again. And for the past three days my allergies have been bothering me a great deal. I couldn't even sleep last night due to the congestion and pain, so I ended up going to the doctor's today. I found out that I have a sinus infection - antibiotics are flowing through my system. Hopefully they will help kick the illness quickly because I have so much to do and my house is in a shambles now because of the other problems. Please keep our family in your prayers. Thanks!

100 Days to Go...

2008-08-28T18:43:00.008-04:00

Today marks 100 days until my due date - seems like forever away and tomorrow at the same time. I have so much to do before the baby joins us.

I had my doctor's appointment this morning and everything went perfectly. The doctor said everything was as it should be and that the baby had a nice strong heartbeat. I did find out that I will have another sonogram at about 35 weeks.

Last month I had some liver function tests that were a bit off, so I had to repeat the liver function test today. The doctor suggested that I might have gallstones and said she wanted to make sure that my levels didn't continue to increase. I just got the results a few minutes ago and nothing is elevated now! Praise the Lord! One part of the test showed that one level was a bit low, but I'm not sure what that means. It was low last time also and this time its lower still. I guess she will tell me in three weeks when I go back. In three weeks when I return I will be changed to an every two week cycle for my appointments because of starting the third trimester. When I go for my next appointment I also have to drink the orange flavored sugar water then check my glucose levels an hour later. Everything was perfect today! I took my eight year old daughter with me to the appointment and she was just fascinated with hearing the baby's heartbeat and being there for the appointment. The doctor made her feel like a special big sister too.

Please continue to pray for the precious little one (who loves to jump around and kick) and that the next 14 weeks are healthy for the bundle of joy and for me. Thanks!

Choices

2008-08-26T14:41:00.010-04:00

Watch this powerful video that shows how a single choice ripples and can destroy a family... - (Thanks Lisa for emailing the link to me.)

* You may want to shield little eyes and ears from the start of this video *

Slow Fade by Casting Crowns

Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. ~ Proverbs 22:6

As parents we are entrusted with precious treasures when God gave us our children. When they are young its our responsibility to be careful what their little eyes see and ears hear.

It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. ~ Luke 17:2

Pray for families. Pray for men and women, fathers and mothers that when they make choices they are choices that will positively effect their children and their world... Choices that make our Heavenly Father smile... Choices that lead others to HIM!

"Let no Christian parents fall into the delusion that Sunday School is intended to ease them of their personal duties. The first and most natural condition of things is for Christian parents to train up their own children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." ~ Charles Haddon Spurgeon

Serving Others

2008-08-17T22:12:00.016-04:00

Rick in Alaska

Serving others through mission work can be life changing both for those who are served and those who have the honor of serving. This morning our Work and Witness Team (short term missions) to Alaska shared during our morning worship service. It was great to hear from each team member (five adults - my husband, Rick included and two teens) how God worked in their lives during their time in Alaska and to hear that some of them are considering future mission trips.

This morning in Sunday school we discussed the financial aspect of going of Work and Witness trips (mainly airfare). I was pleased to hear that others hearts are burdened to make a difference closer to home also and to use the money that would have been spent for travel expenses to make a difference in the lives of people closer to home. I think both types of trips have value.

This evening during our missions service we were privileged to hear from two of our teens who traveled closer to home for their Work and Witness project. Last year they traveled to Mississippi to help with the hurricane repairs (which are still ongoing). It touches my heart deeply to see young men striving to serve and finding their place in ministry. Pray for Nathan and Timothy that God will continue to work in their lives and lead them to the ministries where HE can use them.

Have any of you taken part in a short term mission project? If so how did it change your life and or world view? If you haven't been on a short-term missions trip would you consider it?

I am Strange!

2008-08-06T09:17:00.013-04:00

Last week when I took my kids to the water park, I was walking in the lazy river (this picture is not of our community water park, unfortunately). The lazy river is about 3 feet deep and has a current that flows to move the tubes everyone is required to use. I put the tube around myself and instead of floating, I walk - have to get some exercise somehow since the gym was vetoed for me. As I was walking down the lazy river, picking up trash and stray tubes, a thought for a blog post came to mind, so I hit the next exit and grabbed my bag to find a pen and paper. How many people would jump out of their tube on the lazy river on a hot, sunny day to run back to their chair to jot down a few notes for a blog entry? I know, I'm strange!

My husband returned from a Work & Witness (short term missions) trip to Big Lake, Alaska last Wednesday afternoon and his short term service encouraged me to think about life. Our lives as Christians are 24/7 Work & Witness projects. No matter where we are or what we are doing we should look for opportunities to serve others regardless of their faith. Acts of service could be as simple as picking up litter on the sidewalk or holding a door for someone or they may require more thought, sacrifice and effort. We need a constant open line of communication with our Savior, Jesus Christ through Bible reading and prayer so we are alerted to His will for each moment of each day.

Are you floating down the river of life just looking at the scenery and enjoying the ride or are you looking for ways to serve and love those you come in contact with each day? As my brother, David, told me one day, he walks around with his eyes open. We should all strive to do likewise.

Remember, we may not receive a reward on earth, but keep living, loving and serving during your time as a stranger on this earth and prepare for eternity with Jesus in the home we were created for... All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. ~ Hebrews 11:13

22 Weeks and Counting

2008-07-31T22:23:00.005-04:00

My friends, Jim and Cheryl, took some pictures of me and the kids on Saturday, July 26th since I've been negligent on taking pictures this pregnancy.

I saw my doctor today (almost 22 weeks along) and she said that everything is going terrific with my pregnancy now. She had me do one blood test today to check for an issue with my liver that may be nothing at all. She said that I'm doing well and that the baby is doing great. My blood pressure was perfect today - of course I went to the appointment alone and didn't have to rush my family who would rather be sleeping off to an early morning appointment they would rather miss. Rick would like to be at every appointment, but he'd like to be beamed there without having to get out of bed. So I will be going to my future appointments alone unless there is some reason I need someone else to drive.

Thank you all for your ongoing prayers for me and the baby!

August 1 Update - I received an email from the lab with my results for the liver function tests and some of them are elevated. Then a while later I got an email from my doctor's office saying that the doctor reviewed my results and needs me to repeat the test at my next appointment and that the orders are in the system already. My guess is that they want to make sure the levels don't increase in the next month. The doctor said she wanted to do a test for Cholestasis of Pregnancy when I mentioned that I was experiencing itching all over my body. I thought that it might be from a combination of sun screen, chlorine and dry skin, but she just wants to be sure.

Up for a Challenge?

2008-07-26T10:30:00.010-04:00

I receive email newsletters from Nancy Leigh DeMoss (Revive Our Hearts Ministries) and she posed a challenge in a recent message. Actually she gave options for multiple challenges (involving husbands, your pastor, your pastor's wife, and the television). Check out this link and decide on the best challenge for you and your situation. I think all four of them our worthy of consideration and any of the four could be a catalyst for spiritual growth in our lives.

Give it a try it could change your life!

Do Something that Matters!

2008-07-21T22:38:00.005-04:00

My church (in cooperation with churches throughout our church district) is raising money for wells in Haiti through the Haiti Water Project. The Haitian wells were the focus for our VBS offering this summer and we are extending the opportunity to contribute to the offering over the next couple weeks in order to help the project even more.

Watch a short piece highlighting how the Haiti Water Project is making a difference in communities in Haiti -- and how we can all get involved.

For churches in Haiti—where more than half of the eight million people there don’t have access to safe drinking water— it means they can become the source of both the literal and spiritual water of life. Young children in Haiti have to walk up to six hours each day to retrieve water.

For approximately $1,000, a church can build one well that will affect the lives of two thousand-plus people for years to come. If each of the 500 Nazarene churches in Haiti had a well on its property, it would mean one million changed lives. Various groups are partnering with local churches in Haiti to empower them to provide sustainable water resources for the people in their communities. It’s a dream right now. What would it take to make it a reality? Consider making a donation.

THE HAITI WATER PROJECT: GET INVOLVED

The Haiti Water Project is a simple concept: Create sustainable water resources that empower local churches in Haiti to meet the needs around them. Here are 4 simple ways you can get involved:

Learn.

Find out more about the needs in Haiti and how you can get involved. Start with the Haiti Water Project site at www.caribnaz.org, and then do some research on your own.

Talk.

Raise awareness about the need for clean water in Haiti and the ways we can all get involved. Talk about it with people you know.

Join the Haiti Water Project cause on Facebook, and invite your friends. Spread the word about the need and the simple ways we can help meet that need.

Teach others through your words and actions about how they can get involved in God’s call for action in our world — and specifically in Haiti.

Act.

The cost of a well is as little as $1,000. Individuals can donate part (or all) of the cost a well, or groups can go in together to donate the cost of an entire well.

Come up with creative ways people can give.

• Example: Give Up Your Bottles. In the U.S. we spent $15 billion (yes, billion) on bottled water last year. That’s enough money to supply clean water for all of the 1.1 billion people in the world who don’t have access to safe water. Give the money you would normally spend on bottled water in a month to the Haiti Water Project so people in Haiti can have clean water.

• Example: Host a benefit [fill in the blank]. Showcase your talents (and/or those of your friends) and use the proceeds to partner with HWP. Make it a concert or writer’s night or photography exhibit or …

• Example: Organize a fundraiser to help raise money for wells in Haiti. If you’re into running, you could do something like a community-wide 5K race. If you’re a creative designer type, you could sell T-shirts you design. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination.

Pray.

Pray for the people in Haiti. Pray for church leaders there. Pray for the children. Pray for the families. Pray that God would provide resources for the churches in Haiti to meet the needs around them.

God loves HIS children in Haiti and we as their brothers and sisters can make a difference in their lives through sacrificial giving and prayer. Prayerfully consider how you might ACT to help make the lives of those in Haiti more tolerable.

* Materials and photos used by permission of http://www.caribnaz.org/

Midpoint Sonogram

2008-07-16T13:15:00.007-04:00

This morning my family and I went for the midpoint sonogram. It's hard to believe we are at the halfway point now. The sonogram was quick because the technician said the baby was cooperative. The technician was actually running almost an hour behind before he saw me and said that he made up a lot of time with my appointment since the baby posed appropriately. He said that everything looks terrific and that we have a healthy baby. The pictures taken today (19 weeks) were a bit fuzzy (ok not even anywhere near true - they are incomprehensible) in my opinion, but I will scan and post one from today anyhow.
July 16 (19 weeks)

Since the sonogram from today is so hard to interpret, I'm going to share one from June 19th (15 weeks) also, since its a bit easier to see and I feel I owe you something with the title saying "Sonogram."

Please continue to pray for the rest of the pregnancy and for a quick safe delivery. Because of the rod along side my spine epidurals are not even an option. I've been blessed with two quick labors and am hoping for the same this time. Of course as I said before I don't want it to be so quick that I end up having a baby on the interstate so any number of people could see my face on the local news. I had my first baby 6 hours after arriving at the hospital (I wasn't in labor - it was just a precautionary thing because the plan was to induce me in the morning). My second child was born almost 2 hours after arriving at the hospital. We have a different insurance this time and the hospital isn't five miles from home like the last two times. The time the little one decides to bless us with his or her presence will let us know whether its a 20 minute drive to the hospital or a two hour drive (crazy traffic during rush hour). If this one is like the other two it will be born late at night which will eliminate the traffic issues. I guess we will have to wait and see!

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers!

Vacation Bible School

2008-07-08T10:49:00.002-04:00

My church is having VBS this week - the theme is Fruits of the Spirit! Please pray for the children that are attending (and those that have been invited, but not yet come) that they will feel the love of Christ and that they will come to a relationship with Him or that the ground work will be laid for them to come to the Lord. Pray also for the parents of those who may be un-churched that they feel comfort with our church or that they find a church somewhere that will meet the needs of their children and themselves.

Pray also for the children's ministers who traveled a great distance in an RV to share the love of the Lord with the children of our community and church. Pray that the workers from our church will sense God's presence in the work they are doing and that all the glory goes to God.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

~ Galatians 6:9-10

Pregnancy Update

2008-07-03T12:41:00.002-04:00

I had my doctor's appointment yesterday and the visit went really well. My doctor's main concern was that my blood pressure is high whenever I come to the office. Interestingly enough when my blood pressure is taken away from the doctor's office its always fine. He said that if someone looked at my blood pressure record he'd have to explain why I wasn't on medication for high blood pressure. I assured him that my blood pressure is elevated because I'm rushing around trying to motivate my family to get to an appointment when they'd rather be sleeping. So from now on I'm going to go to my doctor's appointments alone and it will be better for the whole family. Getting myself out the door in time for an appointment is no big deal. The doctor asked the nurse to take a second blood pressure reading after my appointment and the results were perfect. He ordered a panel of tests for blood pressure issues which I completed at the lab yesterday and every single test came out within the normal range.

He still wants me to rest as much as possible and to say out of direct heat and sunlight. He also wants me to drink lots of water (I'm the Queen of Water Drinking) which is no problem at all. My gym membership is on hold until next January per doctor's orders. He said I could go to the pool as long as I went after the heat of the day and as long as I drank water even if I didn't feel thirsty because people often dehydrate while at the pool - again not a problem.

My sonogram is scheduled for July 16th and they will do a thorough check on the baby and the placenta. So I feel that my appointment was terrific news! Thank you all for your concern and prayers - keep them coming :)

Fireproof (the movie)

2008-07-01T08:19:00.010-04:00

I recently found out about Fireproof, a new movie from the makers of Facing the Giants - check out this trailer - it looks great! If you'd rather read a synopsis go here.

Fireproof will be coming to theaters on September 26, 2008. Find a city near you.

The Fireproof website has many interactive tools you can use to help strengthen and grow your marriage. Visit Fireproof My Marriage today.

Bed Rest

2008-06-27T09:08:00.006-04:00

Prior to my pregnancy complications, I never really thought too much about what bed rest would mean to a person, but through this experience God has taught me so much. Some dear friends have showered me with God's love in some very practical ways and in some not so practical ways and they have all been greatly appreciated.

Some kind deeds:

* A friend from my church has delivered amazing meals to me twice
* Various ones have called and emailed to see how I'm doing
* Two ladies from my church loaned me DVDs
* A friend came over and painted my fingernails one day
* Last night a friend came over and baked a blueberry pie while we visited. Then she put some laundry away and washed the dishes in my sink
* One dear lady had an edible creation delivered (fruit – yum) – this was especially nice because I’m a fruit fanatic and many kinds of flowers aggravate my allergies.
* Another friend came over with her daughter and they cleaned bathrooms and vacuumed and made some meals.

During my time of rest I’ve had time to think about things that I could do that would make the life of a person on bed rest easier:

* Its best not to ask what you can do because most of us won't say anything because we don't want to admit we need help and we don’t want to feel as if we are a burden to someone else.
* Bring meals in containers you don't need back
* Bring fresh fruit
* Take some quick fix meals like sandwich meat or peanut butter and jelly that spouses or children can prepare themselves.
* Take paper products so they don't have to worry about the sink full of dishes
* Make sure they have necessary items like toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, and tissues on hand.
* Stop by and see if you can take out the trash or recycling
* Mow the lawn, rake leaves, shovel their snow, etc.
* Laundry
* Vacuum
* Call to check up on them if they are able to come to the phone or take them a cordless phone that can be placed by their place of rest. Some people may prefer quiet while others crave companionship – find out which the person needs by checking with the Pastor or someone who knows them well like a spouse or close friend.
* Ask if they are up for a visit (it can be lonely or they may need quiet depending on the circumstances)
* Send cards of prayers and encouragement
* Take them a CD of the sermon
* Pray for them, but let them know you are praying. You may call and pray with them over the phone, pray while you visit, write your prayer in a card you send – or if you are uncomfortable with those at least tell them you are praying. Prayer is powerful and encouraging.
* Send encouraging Scripture verses
* Loan them DVD's to watch or books to read or volunteer to pick up some library books
* Think of a unique way to share your love and concern specific to your gifts and talents

I am confident that everything is healing and that I should be lifted from bed rest by July 2nd after my doctor’s appointment - I will update after my appointment. Thank you for your continued prayers for me and the little treasure.

Special Prayer Request

2008-06-18T11:46:00.005-04:00

Please keep me and the baby in your prayers. I fell in the church parking lot on Sunday (slipped on water). Then this morning I had bleeding and had to go into the doctor. She said the baby is okay, but that I have placenta previa. She wants me to do nothing for 3-4 days and to down scale my activities after that. She said that 90% of the time the placenta will correct itself.

I'm a very active person and I walk/jog 5 miles a day (six days a week). The doctor said jogging and running are now not an option for me and she wants me to walk slower than usual and to only exercise in 15 minute intervals. So if you see me misbehaving...tell me to stop it.

Keep us in your prayers!

Thanks,

Robin

A Contribution in Eternity

2008-06-12T11:06:00.011-04:00

How can $4.00 make a difference in eternity? Because of the increase in the cost of gas these days $4.00 can barely buy a gallon of gas. BUT $4.00 supports one minute of World Mission Broadcast (WMB) airtime through radio, the Internet, or television. On the air since 1951, WMB reaches even the remotest parts of the world, with words of hope and holiness... Each year millions of people hear WMB programs and lives are changed because of what they’ve heard.

As of April 22, 2008, World Mission Broadcast is reaching the unreached in:

30 Languages
73 Countries
94 Programs
7,012 Broadcasts

Last year was the first year I was truly challenged to make a sacrifice to give to WMB. Previous years I just gave a token offering that didn’t require sacrifice on my part. The challenge came through a work of fiction based on real life – Safely Home by Randy Alcorn. His novel shares how radio broadcasts encourage persecuted Christians who can’t openly attend church and reaches those who don’t know of Jesus. Randy’s book made the plight of those who haven’t heard of Jesus very real to me – so real that it hurt and made me want to do something that mattered, something that made a difference.

Excerpt from Safely Home:

“They have been praying for three hours before we arrived.”
“So the meeting must be nearly done?”
“No. Just starting. Chinese believers have motto: ‘Little prayer, little power. No prayer, no power.’” (p. 289)

Join with me in prayer for persecuted Christians and for those who are yet to hear the good news of Jesus Christ and HIS gift of unconditional love and salvation through World Mission Broadcast. Consider what amount you will share to reach the unreached with the good news of Jesus.

From WMB Website:

Giving to World Mission Broadcast provides the means to reach millions around the world for Christ, providing the funding for program production, airtime, and follow-up materials. Holiness programming, delivered by radio, television and the Internet, is reaching into the far corners of the world with the message of Jesus and his redeeming love and helping to disciple those who respond. The prayer and financial support of individuals and local churches are vital to this broadcast ministry.

Gifts to World Mission Broadcast can be given through the following methods:

Online – World Mission Broadcast

Send a check made out to:

World Mission Broadcast
6401 The Paseo
Kansas City, MO 64131

To learn more about the work of World Mission Broadcast sign up for the newsletter here.

Or

Contact WMB online or call 816-333-7000 ext. 2745

If you have a few moments, I encourage you to read through these requests and pray for the listeners they represent. Nothing will support the work of World Mission Broadcast (WMB) globally, like your prayers. Feel free to pass these requests on to your church’s prayer groups. Thank you for your support of WMB, and especially for supporting the listeners.

Rick Guilfoil, Director,
World Mission Broadcast

Responses from South America
www.Esperanza.net—October 2006

Below is just a small sampling of the prayer requests sent in by WMB listeners in October 2006:

“I need strength and hope to keep going in this world.”
Margarita, 41 (Venezuela)

“I want to know more about God.”
Gabriel, 42 (Argentina)

“I want to know Jesus.”
Felix, 20 (Peru)

“I need spiritual peace.”
Daniel, 45 (Colombia -Listening to the radio in a taxi)

“I want to know how to be a ‘valuable woman.’ I want to learn to be a woman of wisdom. I have low selfesteem.”
Carmen, 45 (Chile)

“I need to leave this spiritual poverty.”
Luis, 25 (Bolivia)

“How can I know the will of God?”
Islene, 32 (Colombia)

Please pray for these individuals and the families they represent and consider once again what you might do to make an investment in eternity! Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

Prayer of the Heart

2008-06-03T20:22:00.006-04:00

Please join in prayer with my friends, Tam and Papa. This week Tam shared a post - "Pressed to Pray" and Papa just today sent out a call to Please come pray with us! so I thought it would be a good time to continue sharing from Opening Windows compiled and edited by Mary Fairchild. I'm going to spend the next few posts sharing the discussion questions from Your Fresh Take.

On page 97 at the end of the chapter by Leanne Payne – Open to “Prayer of the Heart” the questions are:

Think back over your recent petitions to God. What do your requests tell you about the desires of your heart? For the next week, keep a daily prayer journal that includes a list of your petitions.

When I was thirteen I started my "letters to God" in a spiral notebook, when that book was full, I started another and on and on. Somewhere along the way I quit recording my prayers and regret it. They show you so much. First of all they give hope because you can see how God worked in situations you have long forgotten and secondly you see changes in yourself and realize that God is making you into His image one day at a time. You can also watch your handwriting mature - haha

As you have matured in your faith and knowledge of God, how have your prayer petitions changed? Do you sense that your heart is more closely aligned with God’s heart than it was five years ago? How or why?

My prayers definitely changed from the time I was 13 to my mid-twenties when I quit journaling them. They changed from fairly self-centered to thinking more about what God desires. I still have room for growth as I'm guessing most of us earthbound souls do... I'm a different person than I was five years ago because God has changed things about me that needed changing, but as I see myself now I know that I still have more needed growth in Him.

Choose several Scriptures passages that are meaningful to you. Turn them into petitionary prayers. To edify other Christians, discuss how God has made His presence real to you as you have turned biblical promises into petitions and waited in faith for God to work.

What My Children Want...

2008-05-31T00:00:00.008-04:00

Exactly two years ago on May 31, 2006 this conversation took place between my children:

Daughter (6) was doing her school work and Son (3) was playing. My son came up to me and…

said..."After Sister is done with her school work can we go buy a baby."

Daughter said, "We can't buy a baby it has to come from heaven all the way down to the mom's tummy."

A couple minutes later...

Son said, "I want a baby brother."

Daughter said, "Too bad I think God is going to deliver a baby girl to our family."

Well, God didn’t deliver anything to our family…

until...

March 2008 I received one of these:

Then in April I got one of these:

Then in May I got one of these – (three different poses – how’s a mother to choose)

And in December the whole family will get one of these:

We are thrilled beyond measure. The kids are still hoping for a same sex sibling, but I know they will rejoice with either when it comes down to it. My intuition says it will be a girl, but just about everyone else that has ventured a guess thinks it will be a boy. We have decided to keep it a secret from all, but God and the sonogram technician until the delivery because I’ve always wanted the surprise. For our first two we had the technician write the sex on a piece of paper that we opened over a meal at a restaurant.

Because of my back issues (see this post for more info) and the rod in my back, an epidural isn’t an option for me. I made it through my first two deliveries just fine. The first was harder than the second, but I got bolder the second time around and was able to tell the medical professionals what I needed to do instead of allowing them to make decisions for me that made it more difficult for me to manage. Even with the back labor I had with my daughter, I still thought her delivery was easier than my back surgery. The pain was shorter and the reward was greater. God blessed me with short labors – the first was 6 hours (I went from 1 cm – 10 cm rather quickly - they told me they'd have to induce me in the morning because my water broke and nothing was happening, but my daughter didn't want to wait and she came many hours before the schedule induction) and the second labor took four hours. I’m hoping to do better this time, but not so good that I deliver on the highway or anything. I don’t want my 15 seconds of fame that bad… Regardless of how long it takes, I’m trusting God with the details and I will be overjoyed to hold my newest treasure in my arms.

Please keep the baby, this pregnancy, and me in your prayers.

Thanks!

For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be. ~ Psalm 139:13-16

What role does prayer play in your life?

2008-05-30T16:45:00.007-04:00

I'm reading a devotional thought type book called Opening Windows by a variety of authors - compiled and edited by Mary Fairchild. At the end of each chapter the author challenges the reader in a section called Your Fresh Take.

On page 61 at the end of the chapter by Thelma Wells - Open to Constant Communication the questions are:

Identify two or three times in your daily schedule when you are least aware of God. What conscious changes can you make to increase your awareness of God in these parts of your day?

For me the times I'm least aware of God are when I'm trying to be in control of my world when I try to take things into my own hands. I need to let go and trust God with all things especially the things that seem out of my control - because they most likely are...

How would your day change if God were the first thing you thought of when walking in the morning and the last thing on your mind before sleeping?

I do make an effort to have God be the first thing I think of in the morning and the last before going to bed, but I don't always succeed. I find that when I do things go better and I don't feel as much need to be in control because I KNOW that God is in control.

Do people who are important to you know you are praying for them? If not, what will you do to assure them of your prayers?

I'm pretty sure those important to me know that I'm praying for them. For some people mainly my immediate family and close friends I will pray with them during times of crisis. I'm feeling convicted that I should stop and pray with more people immediately as they share requests. The times friends have done that for me it has really impacted me in a positive way.

Feel free to share your answers in the comments section or just think and pray about them during your time alone with God.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The Five Kind Things Meme

2008-05-29T10:37:00.000-04:00

Jerri tagged me with this meme

The Five Kind Things Meme works like this:

List five kind things you do for yourself.
List five kind things you do for your closest friend, partner or child.
List five kind things you have done for a stranger.
List five kind things you do for fun.
List five people you are tagging with this meme.

Five things I do for myself:
1. I commune with God through reading, prayer, and music, etc.
2. I try to eat healthy.
3. I exercise.
4. I play on the computer – mainly with blogs.
5. Spend time with friends.

List five kind things you do for your closest friend, partner or child.
1. I listen when friends need to talk.
2. I try to encourage people and let them know their life matters and that they mean something to me.
3. I made my husband a special journal filled with thoughts, prayers to God on his behalf, poetry (other people’s not mine), etc. before we got married and gave it to him as a wedding present.
4. I write letters/cards to my children telling them how special they are to me and I have special journals that are in process for them also filled with similar things as my husband’s and pictures of them and me pregnant with them.
5. I try to help whenever and wherever I can whether it be serving them or loving them.

List five kind things you have done for a stranger.
1. I hold doors, return shopping carts, pick up things dropped, etc.
2. One time I gave a young man a ride home from work that I didn’t know well and my dad was quite upset with me when he found out because of safety issues.
3. Return money that they dropped – usually my children find it and I let them return it – makes their day to do something for someone else.
4. My children and I put together Crisis Care Kits that our church delivers to a warehouse and they are given all over the world in times of crisis. People who don’t have time give me the money to buy their kits and my kids and I go to the store to purchase the supplies in bulk and we are able to create more kits than if the people just bought the supplies themselves. My kids are always so excited to help in this process. We pray for the people who will receive the CCK too.
5. Make sure lost children in stores are returned to their parents. One time this spring my kids were riding their scooters along with a neighbor boy several times around our block and a little tyke about two years old started following us without their guardian knowing and I stopped those in my charge and said we had to take the little one back.

Five Things I do for fun:
1. Walk
2. Take pictures of family
3. Play games with my family.
4. Cook and bake with healthy or healthier ingredients
5. Blog

Five people to tag:
1. Life Adapted
2. Heather from Standing at the Crossroads
3. Carol from Journey of Hope
4. Ruthie from Just Ruthie
5. Faith from The Great Adventure

If anyone else would like to play along, please feel free and just let us know that you have answered the questions on your blog or feel free to leave the answers in the comments section.

Marriage

2008-05-25T23:30:00.015-04:00

My dad walking me down the aisle.

What is marriage? Why do we marry? Why do so few Christian marriages go the distance? How is your marriage different? What advice to you have to share with those who are considering marriage or those in any phase of marriage?

Marriage according to Mirriam Webster's first definition is: 1 a (1): the state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law.

I remember when I was in graduate school, my Sunday School teacher, mentor and friend, Carolee Loar challenged our class of young singles to consider what marriage was and write out our definitions. I took the assignment seriously and wrote a great deal. I spend a long time this evening looking in vain for that piece of paper that I kept somewhere safe... Maybe someday I will find it...

Marriage was a frightening prospect for me back then because I was terrified of failure. I had seen too many marriages end badly and wanted to avoid that for myself even if it meant never marrying, but at the same time I wanted to be married so much. I wanted to be loved and to be special to someone. I spent a lot of time praying about marriage and for a possible future spouse and for several young men I hoped would fill that role at various times.

Next month Rick and I will celebrate our eleventh anniversary. We married on the 50th anniversary of my grandparents.

I've read some challenging books about marriage in the last year by Gary Thomas and I highly recommend them to anyone who is married or considering marriage. Sacred Marriage and Sacred Influence are both powerful books that have the potential to change the way we think about marriage. For more info check out my Reading Room Blog - do a search with Gary Thomas' name or the titles of the books mentioned. Consider this quote, Gary shares this quote in Sacred Marriage, "If we view the marriage relationship as an opportunity to excel in love, it doesn’t matter how difficult the person is whom we are called to love; it doesn’t matter even whether that love is ever returned. We can still excel at love. We can still say, “Like it or not, I’m going to love you like nobody ever has.”

Randy Alcorn, a favorite author of mine, shared some of his thoughts about marriage on his blog because an assistant of his married this weekend. Check out his post here.

Let's all spend some time praying for our marriages and the marriages of those who are dear to us. Marriage can be wonderful, yet it can be the most challenging thing we'll ever experience. Storm heaven on the behalf of marriages everywhere!

Hope

2008-05-20T21:29:00.004-04:00

The character study I did with my daughter says: Hope is to believe something will happen in the future that will make you happy and fulfill your needs. Hope is: believing in yourself, being cheerful and positive, being flexible, encouraging others, trusting in God's promises.

Wikipedia defines hope - Hope is a belief in a positive outcome related to events and circumstances in one's life. Hope implies a certain amount of despair, wanting, wishing, suffering or perseverance — i.e., believing that a better or positive outcome is possible even when there is some evidence to the contrary.

A favorite Scripture regarding hope - Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31

What part does hope play in your life? How does hope keep you from giving up or feeling discouraged? What are your hopes?

My Journey with Scoliosis

2008-05-09T20:42:00.016-04:00

The quick somewhat disorganized story of my back issues...

When I was in seventh grade nurses at my middle school did testing for scoliosis and I was one of the lucky ones who were given a clean bill of health. Shortly after I was sitting in my doctor's office for an unrelated issue and he looked at me quizzically and said that he thought I had scoliosis. I assured him that I didn't because I was just screened at school. He sent me for x-rays and then referred me to a specialist. The specialist told me that I needed to see a specialist/surgeon. What I thought?? I went to The Spine Center in Cleveland, Ohio because they dealt with many cases just like mine every day and was diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. Three years later after wearing a lift in my shoe with no success my surgeon told me that I needed to have surgery or my curvature which continued to progress rapidly would cause my heart and lungs to collapse.

So the summer after my sophomore year when I was 15 years old I had a spinal fusion and a thoracoplasty (ribs were shaved from my right side and used to help fuse the rod to my spine). The surgery lasted for seven hours and I was in the hospital for a total of nine days. My surgeon fused a Harrington rod to fourteen vertebrae (Thoracic 1-12 on down to Lumbar 1-2). I had 77 staples and one stitch. I have two scars - a fourteen inch scar a little to the right of my spine and a nine inch scar on my right side.

Post surgery - my back was broken out from the adhesive that held my bandages - the little double dots along side of my insisons are the staple holes.

After surgery I had to wear a brace for six months to stabilize my back and protect my fusion. For some reason I was never given follow-up care regarding what exercises to do to strengthen my back, so I just went about my life the best I could.

Brace Side view

Back view of my brace

Two months post surgery wearing back brace - 15 year old Robin in nurses aid uniform for first day of junior year in HS.

A few years ago after enduring lower back pain ever since my surgery I decided to attempt an exercise program at a local gym. Ever since starting to exercise I have better been able to control my pain although it still comes with regularity its just not constantly severe. It is severe at times, but I work through the pain most of the time using heat, cold, stretching, exercising and sometimes ibuprofen. People most likely wouldn't know I had anything wrong with my back unless I was wearing a form-fitting top (which I don't) or baring my back which I don't except for a few occasions in bridesmaid dresses. Even though my surgeon removed (thoracoplasty) my rib hump it grew back in a very similar pattern to the previous rib hump. My surgery was done long before the information shared in the link above. Sitting against hard surfaces is uncomfortable and I often sit sideways to avoid putting pressure on the right side of my back.

Before I had my daughter I spoke with an anesthesiologist who told me that an epidural wasn't an option for me because of my rod, but God has blessed me with quick labors. My first was born in six hours, but with back labor (sunny side up) and my second came quicker in about four hours. When I had my daughter I didn't realize that I could tell the doctors what I wanted and I just obeyed their orders, but with my son when they gave me orders during labor and delivery I told them their plans didn't work for me and did what I needed to in order to manage my pain.

I've been told by doctors in the years since my surgery that I will have back pain the rest of my life because of my lengthy fusion. All of my spinal flexibility is from Lumbar 3-5 and I have some degeneration between Lumbar 4-5 which also causes pain. I think I manage quite well in spite of the limitations - I don't attempt back bends and have to modify exercises in classes that require back extensions. I feel stronger and healthier now than ever.

I continue to cling to 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 for many parts of my life. Since 100% healing hasn't happened for me I look for opportunities to comfort others in their pain. Sometimes it helps to just know that someone else understands and has been there - knowing you are not alone can really help for one who is dealing with chronic pain.

The Healing Controversy

2008-04-29T18:45:00.005-04:00

For some reason discussion of healing brings controversy. There are some who believe we aren't healed because we don't believe, others because we don't ask and still others because there is sin in our lives. I BELIEVE in healing! But I also believe that God doesn't always choose to act in the way we think best. Our understanding is beneath HIS.

A few years ago in a discussion about healing someone quoted the Scripture from Isaiah 53:5 "by His stripes we are healed" and I believe we may have been taking that verse out of God's context for a long time because God has never healed every person that was sick. HIS WILL and HIS Plan are far above anything we can fathom. God can do amazing things through a person's life and even through a person's death and through a person's attitude as they approach death. The one thing I think that God wants each and every person to be healed of is sin because sin leads to DEATH - eternal death and by HIS stripes and HIS death we can avoid the second death. We are all destined to die - the Bible says that in Hebrews 9:27, but by Jesus death and our acceptance of HIS free gift of salvation we can avoid the second death. We all most likely will face death in a variety of ways, some because of old age, some because of illness, or accident and some because of the sin of another, but we can all rest assured that eternal life and wholeness are our reward if we choose to be healed of spiritual illness/sin and accept Jesus free gift.

College Days...

2008-04-21T21:56:00.015-04:00

I went to a small, Christian liberal arts college and took it upon myself to have a Bible verse ministry. I used to print Bible verses on index cards and plaster them all over the place - mainly in the bathrooms in my own dorm. I would put them inside the bathroom stalls and in the dressing room stalls and later in various places around the dorm. Girls would frequently come and ask me to put a new verse up because they had memorized the one in their stall...

I worked at the Cougar Den (on-campus fast food) so I thought why not put Scripture verses on the bathroom walls there too. So I put them in the ladies restroom easily enough and decided to brave the men's room when it was my turn to clean it (ewww). It was cleaned during time when guys could feasibly walk in, so we always worked quickly. One day I put several verses up in the bathroom stall, by the mirror and over the urinal.

One day a male friend asked me if I hung some verses in the men's room and I told him that I did and he said, "You need to remove the one over the urinal." I couldn't imagine why... Then I went to check and nearly had heart failure when I read the verse... 1 Corinthians 15:58 - "Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."

Some Scriptures especially need to be taken in the correct context...Needless to say, I removed that verse and replaced it with another....

Hunger and Thirst

2008-04-15T20:14:00.008-04:00

July 2006
I asked my daughter if she wanted some ice cream...

Six year old Daughter: (Dancing and jumping in the air) joyfully exclaimed, "YES!"

I gave her a small bowl of of ice cream.

Daughter: (After swallowing first bite asks) "Mom why do you always ask if I want ice cream? Here's a lesson for you. You never need to ask me if I want ice cream because you already know the answer is YES!"

If only we were so excited to consume all that God offers to us through HIS Word... Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Matthew 5:6 Just hurriedly reading the Bible to check it off our to do list is like inhaling a bowlful of ice cream. You miss the pleasure. In one of my graduate classes the professor told us to consume the textbook to make it part of ourselves or we would never comprehend it. We need to consume God's Word we need to chew on it and think about it. I read a powerful little book, Be Still and Know that I am God, that I plan to post on sometime in my Reading Room blog. I shared something useful from the book at Memorize This a couple months ago - check it out. Ever since reading the book, I make an effort to not just quickly read a Scripture passage but to let it sink in deeper. It makes a difference. Give it a try... Hunger and thirst for Jesus...like a child hungers for ice cream, like a starving person hunger for a bowl of rice... Jesus is waiting and ready to fill you and me.

Busy Days

2008-04-14T22:46:00.006-04:00

The last few days have been quite busy and I haven't had much time on the computer, but hope to be back in a few days. I'm still posting daily to my Think on This blog and my Scripture blog and will get back to this blog soon.

Also, I have a few very special upspoken prayer requests! Thanks!

My Avatar

2008-04-10T15:51:00.006-04:00

Time Frame

Daughter - almost 7 years old
Son - just turned 4 years old

I was playing on the computer and my precious son looked at my Avatar and said, "Mommy that's you!" Then a little while later my precocious daughter saw it and I asked her if she thought it looked like me and she said, "Yes, but its a little more fashionable." Out of the mouths of babes...

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. ~ Romans 12:3

Questions about Life?

2008-04-07T21:00:00.006-04:00

Over a year ago I asked myself these questions... I answered for myself then and would love to read your thoughts now... Don't feel pressured to answered every question.

What is the meaning of life? Why do we walk the earth? Why do we struggle? Why do we care about what others think about us? Why did God make us? What is our purpose? What is my purpose? What is God's plan for my life? What good is suffering? Why do we have money? Why do we struggle to have money? Why do we have to hurt? Why do people hurt each other? How can I help? Do I even want to help? Do I make a difference at all? What is the motive of my heart?

Just Another Day in My Life

2008-04-05T18:30:00.004-04:00

June 5, 2006

The Scene: I'm working at the computer and my children are contentedly reading and playing on my bed three feet behind me...

Then for no apparent reason...

Son (3) started crying and screamed, "I'm going to die! I don't want to die!" and Daughter (6) was crying hysterically beside him. I jumped up to find out what was wrong.

More info - somehow a necklace of Daughter's got broken and Son swallowed a bead.

I explained that he wouldn't die and the bead would come out when he went potty, and held him in my arms and assured him that he would be fine.

Son still distraught abruptly walked out of the room.

Daughter said, "I'm glad he didn't die. I thought he would die. If he died I would keep a picture of him in my room forever."

Son comes back into the room and loudly announces, "I'm still not happy!"

Daughter said, "Well at least you aren't dead."

If you are sitting here reading this then you aren't dead. Things may not be going the way you had envisioned, but if you turn it all over to Jesus it will all work out according to HIS plan. Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed with our circumstances and we may not clearly understand why something has happened, but rest assured the Creator of the Universe and the author of our salvation knows and cares. Turn it all over to HIM and rejoice that you aren't dead and you still have a chance to make an impact in this world.

A Funny Day in My Life (three years ago)

2008-04-04T22:30:00.005-04:00

July 26, 2005

My daughter went downstairs and got out an adult game (nothing bad, but not appropriate for a 5 year old) and said she wanted to play it. I told her no. She said she would play a kid game instead. So I got out Boggle Jr. and gave it to her and she said, "No, I want some options."

I said, "I will give you options - Boggle or nothing oh wait Boggle or you can clean your room."

She said, "Ok, give me Boggle."

I love my little girl, she is a riot and an amazing blessing in my life!

Sometimes we can act like a stubborn child and turn away the blessings that God wants to give us, but when we consider the options we might just realize that what HE had planned was best after all.

Can you think of a time in your life when you resisted a blessing that God wanted to give you? Did you finally accept it? Did you express thanks?

What are you THANKFUL for?

2008-04-03T16:45:00.005-04:00

How do you feel when someone expresses thanks to you for something you have done for them? It makes me feel valued and gives me the affirmation that what I'm doing really matters. The Scripture I chose to focus on today at Memorize This is about being thankful.

I read a The Ultimate Life by Jim Stovall and he challenges his readers to start each day by making a Golden List of the things they are thankful for... Once that becomes a habit, we will notice our outlook on life will improve because we are forcing ourselves to focus on the positive. At the beginning some may be thankful for simple things like food, water and air, but as thankfulness becomes a way of life the list will probably become more meaningful.

It's always a good time to be thankful! How many things can you list this day that you are thankful for? I challenge you to list at least ten, but I bet you can list more.

Update from Ethiopia Work and Witness Team

2008-04-02T20:48:00.004-04:00

I received two updates today from one of the team members who is part of the Work and Witness Team.

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 Update from Ethiopia

All,

We arrived in Jimma last night, after a gruling drive from Addis Ababa. The team we have here is incredible! There's no other words to describe their attitudes. They've been through a lot these past few days, long flights, long drives, and a new culture... but throughout all of this each member has had a servants heart. I'm so proud of everyone of them!

We had our first workday today. The school that we're working on for the first part of the trip is needs the last few rows of bricks put around the top and some work on the roof. Once we complete this project we will move on to the widow's home.

Prayer needs:
Driving to and from the worksite
Opportunity to share/witness
The team's stamina working in the heat
Safety on the worksite
Our leaders, David Argabright & Jeff Jackson

Thanks for all of your prayers!
Jason

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wednesday, April 2, 2008 Update

Hello everyone! First and foremost, thank you for all of your prayers. We have definitely felt the Lord's presence on out trip. Tonight's "after dinner" meeting was awesome. God was with us in a very special way. Each of our team members are experiencing growth in their own way! We spent our second day on the worksite working on the school and playing with children. Our team is a true picture of the body of Christ. Each of us have a special role on the team. Some of us are builders, some of us are evangelist (playing with the children and talking with the adults), but the entire team has been acting as a servant.

Please continue to pray for us!
Jason

Healing

2008-04-01T22:47:00.002-04:00

Most of us have read the Biblical account of the healing at the pool of Bethesda. I’ve always been puzzled as to why Jesus would ask the man if he wanted to be well. My initial thought was of course he wants to be healed who wouldn’t?

I experience back pain on a regular basis and have been told to expect it for the rest of my life because of scoliosis, a rib hump, and some problems between Lumbar 4 and 5. I had corrective surgery the summer after my sophomore year in high school. The surgeon shaved ribs from my right side and then used those shavings to fuse a stainless steel rod to fourteen vertebrae in my back. I didn’t have physical therapy after my surgery and wasn’t instructed on how to improve my back strength. I finally took matters into my own hands and started exercising at a local gym a little over three years ago. I noticed some improvement from being active; however the pain (ranging from mild to severe) continues often times without my understanding it’s cause.

One day when I was in a lot of pain, I sent an email to an online friend, Jerri asking her to pray for my back. Jerri replied that she would pray that my rod would dissolve and my immediate reaction was NO! I NEED MY ROD! Then it dawned on me that Jesus had good reason to ask if the man at the pool wanted to get well. He lived with his problem for 38 years and didn’t know how to live differently. Many times in life we become accustomed to our illnesses or problems. After my surgery, I was dependent on a back brace for six months. When I was cleared medically to quit wearing my brace, I was scared without it’s security. Time passed and I became comfortable with my limitations and life without my brace. Most people wouldn’t know I had anything wrong with me unless they saw my scars, which is unlikely because they are usually covered or if I wore tight fit clothing (I don’t). When Jerri suggested that God would dissolve my rod, I was hesitant because I’m used to having the rod and the limited flexibility. I’ve had a rod in my back over half my life, I can hardly remember what it was like not to have it. If God wanted to heal me by dissolving my rod and straightening my spine, HE could, but He’d also have to heal my mind. I don’t know what God’s will is, but I’m now open to whatever HE wants for me. I’ve always believed that my back issues were a “cross” I had to bear after all, even Paul had to live with his thorn. I want to bring glory to God regardless of whether it is through living with a “thorn” or proclaiming HIS healing power.

Think about limitations in your life and ask yourself, do you want to be well?

The Healing at the Pool

Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?"

"Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."

Then Jesus said to him, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.

~ John 5:1-9