Let me paint a picture of a typical Friday of Camp LIFE. Children running
everywhere. New shirts, bandanas and shoes being worn. Dancing. Smiling.
Laughter. True joy. It's the only way to describe it. It's the best day some of
these children will have in their entire lives.
Now let me paint you a different picture. A father thrown in jail for rape.
A mother who was so sick she moved away, not knowing if she is even still
alive. A child being sent to stay with strangers to live a servant's life.
That's the beginning of the story I was told by Queen, a 14 year old girl who
attended camp this past week. One day, the people she lived with also left her.
She was essentially taking care of herself at just 14 years old. She went into
the market to get some food and when she came back there was a man waiting for
her in her home. The details of what happened to her that day don't need to be
repeated. Pain pierced my heart and my tears were uncontrollable when I heard
the whole story. Queen, not knowing what to do next, decided to tell her
neighbors about the horrific things that had just happened to her. Nobody
believed her. In fact, they called her a liar. They whipped her for telling
such stories. They cast her out.
Then, something miraculous happened. A friend of hers who attended Camp LIFE
last year told Queen to pray she gets to come to camp this year. She said that
is where you go for people to listen to your story and to care about you. So
Queen prayed. And the Lord answered her.
On Friday of camp, we told Queen she wasn't going back home. She was going
to come and live with us now. I looked her in the eyes and told her how loved
she was. I told her I loved her. I told her that her counselor loved her. I
told her God loved her. Over and over I repeated these words as I sat with her
in my arms. All of a sudden I realized Queen was crying. She was releasing so
much hurt and built up emotions.
After a while we just started talking and I was asking her all kinds of
questions about camp and how much fun she had. Then I asked her what makes her
the most happy and she said she loves to sing. I convinced her to sing for me
and these were the words she sang:
My God is great
I will worship Him
He deserves all the glory
My God is great
As Queen was singing, she closed her eyes and lifted her hands. Again, tears
streamed down her beautiful face. Her love for her Father was so strong and
evident. Here, a girl who has known nothing but hardship and struggle in her 14
years of life, is worshiping the Lord because that is what gives her the most
joy in her life.
It’s stories like Queen’s that break my heart, but remind me of God’s
beautiful love and grace. What a blessing it is for me that He has chosen me to
love on the children He loves the very most.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
There is Power in the Name Jesus
On Friday, I was a part of 2 more homes opening up in our Tree of Life Children’s Village. I’ve never felt closer to God’s heart then on one of these days.
The days before are used to set up the home. We work for days and nights trying to prepare for the openings. Sometimes we miss meals and sometimes we miss sleep and all the time our bodies are sore and tired. But oh, it is all worth it.
It’s worth it to see a family of 3 girls move in who hadn’t eaten in days. It’s worth it to see a girl escape the grasp of her alcoholic and abusive step father. It’s worth it to see a little boy smile who recently tried to commit suicide because his life was unbearable. I could go on and on. Story after story. It’s all worth it. Every single child is worth it.
Yesterday we played the theme song for Camp LIFE to the children who live at the Tree of Life Children’s Village. What a sweet moment to watch these words wash over those children:
Into the darkness You shine, out of the ashes we rise
there's no one like You, none like You
Our God is greater, our God is stronger,
God you are higher than any other.
Our God is Healer, Awesome in Power, Our God! Our God!
And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us.
And if our God is with us, then what could stand against.
Think about that. God has gone into the darkest corners of this world to rescue the least of these. Nothing can stop Him. Nothing can stand against Him. He will come for His children.
There is power in the name Jesus
There is power in the name Jesus
To break every chain
To break every chain
What a sweet gift. These kids know all too well about chains holding them down. But God didn’t let them stay there. He will not forget His children.
There is nothing better than to hold open your arms and to have a sweet child, who maybe has never even been held before, come running and jumping into your arms. To see them smiling and laughing. To see them happy. It’s worth it.
It’s all worth it.
It’s worth it to see a family of 3 girls move in who hadn’t eaten in days. It’s worth it to see a girl escape the grasp of her alcoholic and abusive step father. It’s worth it to see a little boy smile who recently tried to commit suicide because his life was unbearable. I could go on and on. Story after story. It’s all worth it. Every single child is worth it.
Yesterday we played the theme song for Camp LIFE to the children who live at the Tree of Life Children’s Village. What a sweet moment to watch these words wash over those children:
Into the darkness You shine, out of the ashes we rise
there's no one like You, none like You
Our God is greater, our God is stronger,
God you are higher than any other.
Our God is Healer, Awesome in Power, Our God! Our God!
And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us.
And if our God is with us, then what could stand against.
Think about that. God has gone into the darkest corners of this world to rescue the least of these. Nothing can stop Him. Nothing can stand against Him. He will come for His children.
There is power in the name Jesus
There is power in the name Jesus
To break every chain
To break every chain
What a sweet gift. These kids know all too well about chains holding them down. But God didn’t let them stay there. He will not forget His children.
There is nothing better than to hold open your arms and to have a sweet child, who maybe has never even been held before, come running and jumping into your arms. To see them smiling and laughing. To see them happy. It’s worth it.
It’s all worth it.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Crossroads
Wow. I apologize for my lack of writing! I can’t believe I’ve been here for over 2 weeks and literally haven’t had a minute to spare. But now it’s break week! Let me clarify- it’s a break from Americans, not from work! Now is the time to catch up on all the emails and other work I’ve had to neglect since getting here.
It would take entirely way too long to recap every single thing I’ve done or seen here so let me just give you an impactful moment.
One Thursday I got the opportunity to supervise a couple groups going into the compound of Kanyama 2. The Kanyamas are some of the roughest areas we work in. We had a younger group of girls about the age of 7 and an older group of girls around 13-14. They were the sweetest things EVER. By the end of the day some of the older girls were calling me their best friend and jumping all over me and hugging me. We picked weeds in the Community Resource Center (CRC) and then walked around evangelizing to the people who lived around the CRC. As we were leaving Kanyama 2, we took some back roads to avoid traffic on the main ones and we went through an area that is the roughest in Lusaka. It’s so horrible that the police won’t even go there. Trash didn’t just line the roads, trash covered the roads. They covered the sidewalks and created giant heaps all around. There were pigs roaming the streets along with goats, chickens and children. All of them, digging through the trash together. The air was putrid. There was nothing clean around us. I won’t even go into detail about the crime rate there. If the police avoid the area, that kind of gives you a hint of the hostile environment festering in the community. And then, all of a sudden we came to a light and just past the light the roads became paved and buildings appeared. Police motorcycles (yeah the first time I’ve seen that here) drove past us. Seriously, in the blink of an eye, we went from the absolute worst area in Lusaka to one of the richest. That is what Zambia is made of, rich businessmen and women living right next to the slums of Zambia. Ignoring them. Allowing the poor to live their lives parallel to the rich, but refusing to turn a head at their misfortune. My heart was filled with disgust. But then I was reminded that I live in a rich community of Dallas and right on the other side of the Trinity are the slums of Dallas. What are we doing for them? Do we allow the poor in Dallas to live their lives parallel to the rich and refuse to turn our heads at their misfortune?
We are the plan of God. There is no plan B. I’m just one chapter away from finishing Radical (sorry CG- I got a little behind! I promise to finish this week!) Anyways, in one of the chapters I recently read, it reads,
“Some wonder if it is unfair for God to allow so many to have no knowledge of the gospel. But there is no injustice in God. The injustice lies in Christians who possess the gospel and refuse to give their lives to making it known among those who haven’t heard. That is unfair.”
I read that quote and think of the injustice in all of us. As we walk past the homeless on the corners. As we refuse love to the orphaned. As we live our lives as if the whole world is perfectly fine.
God isn’t pleased by our strength, He is pleased by our faith.
You don’t have to be the strongest. You don’t have to be the richest. You don’t have to be the most courageous. You just have to have faith. He’ll use you in whatever way He wants. But for these kids and these people of Zambia, He wants them to know Love.
Those girls that I talked about earlier, they just needed to know that they were loved, cared for and beautiful. And guess what, God allowed me to be the one to tell them.
Every. Single. One. Of. You. Listen. Up.
YOU CAN DO THIS.
It would take entirely way too long to recap every single thing I’ve done or seen here so let me just give you an impactful moment.
One Thursday I got the opportunity to supervise a couple groups going into the compound of Kanyama 2. The Kanyamas are some of the roughest areas we work in. We had a younger group of girls about the age of 7 and an older group of girls around 13-14. They were the sweetest things EVER. By the end of the day some of the older girls were calling me their best friend and jumping all over me and hugging me. We picked weeds in the Community Resource Center (CRC) and then walked around evangelizing to the people who lived around the CRC. As we were leaving Kanyama 2, we took some back roads to avoid traffic on the main ones and we went through an area that is the roughest in Lusaka. It’s so horrible that the police won’t even go there. Trash didn’t just line the roads, trash covered the roads. They covered the sidewalks and created giant heaps all around. There were pigs roaming the streets along with goats, chickens and children. All of them, digging through the trash together. The air was putrid. There was nothing clean around us. I won’t even go into detail about the crime rate there. If the police avoid the area, that kind of gives you a hint of the hostile environment festering in the community. And then, all of a sudden we came to a light and just past the light the roads became paved and buildings appeared. Police motorcycles (yeah the first time I’ve seen that here) drove past us. Seriously, in the blink of an eye, we went from the absolute worst area in Lusaka to one of the richest. That is what Zambia is made of, rich businessmen and women living right next to the slums of Zambia. Ignoring them. Allowing the poor to live their lives parallel to the rich, but refusing to turn a head at their misfortune. My heart was filled with disgust. But then I was reminded that I live in a rich community of Dallas and right on the other side of the Trinity are the slums of Dallas. What are we doing for them? Do we allow the poor in Dallas to live their lives parallel to the rich and refuse to turn our heads at their misfortune?
We are the plan of God. There is no plan B. I’m just one chapter away from finishing Radical (sorry CG- I got a little behind! I promise to finish this week!) Anyways, in one of the chapters I recently read, it reads,
“Some wonder if it is unfair for God to allow so many to have no knowledge of the gospel. But there is no injustice in God. The injustice lies in Christians who possess the gospel and refuse to give their lives to making it known among those who haven’t heard. That is unfair.”
I read that quote and think of the injustice in all of us. As we walk past the homeless on the corners. As we refuse love to the orphaned. As we live our lives as if the whole world is perfectly fine.
God isn’t pleased by our strength, He is pleased by our faith.
You don’t have to be the strongest. You don’t have to be the richest. You don’t have to be the most courageous. You just have to have faith. He’ll use you in whatever way He wants. But for these kids and these people of Zambia, He wants them to know Love.
Those girls that I talked about earlier, they just needed to know that they were loved, cared for and beautiful. And guess what, God allowed me to be the one to tell them.
Every. Single. One. Of. You. Listen. Up.
YOU CAN DO THIS.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
a relaxing saturday
Today has been a nice morning so far! I slept in a little and then organized all of the ministry items people had brought to the villa these past two weeks. Ended up finding a lot of the stuff that was "missing." Funny what a little cleaning can do! After that I came to villa 37 where the internet is and have been working on some spreadsheets and other work stuff in order to get ready for next week!
Yesterday was a blast! I woke up and went to camp which on Fridays is at the hilltop at the Tree of Life. I stayed there for a couple hours and helped the summer staff girls get all the gifts for the kids organized. I watched them sing a few songs and then I walked down to the houses where the kids who LIVE at the Tree of Life were just getting out of school. I had so much fun just hanging out with them. There were a couple that just wanted to hang on me and have me hold them the entire time.
Of course I fell in LOVE with little Ackim. He is 6 years old and the oldest of 3 brothers that just got moved in 2 weeks ago. His two younger brothers got sponsored right away because they are just little babies. Oh but Ackim was SOOOO cute!! I hope he gets sponsored soon. (If anybody is interested.. let me know!)
Anyways, at dinner last night the Americans all give testimonies of their weeks and of course I just start tearing up because of some of the stories they told. It is always SO COOL to hear people that come for one reason or another and go home a completely different person. Gives me chills just thinking about it. God is so completely intentional about everything He puts in our lives.
I have to tell you what impacted ME the most yesterday. We have one little boy who just moved into the TOL and he has a disability in both his legs. Well I found out that when he moved into the TOL somebody had to physically carry him into the house because he couldn't walk. The next week he was getting around with some help of the other kids. YESTERDAY we had some of the kids run out and meet all the Americans and Gift wasn't one of the ones we picked, but as we let them go Gift took off RUNNING!! His legs were still bent in as he ran, but it didn't matter anymore. He was FREE. Seriously, the sweetest boy. While I was hanging out with them, he just kept coming up to me with the biggest smile and giving me hugs.
Today the new group of Americans come in! And we start all over again :)
Yesterday was a blast! I woke up and went to camp which on Fridays is at the hilltop at the Tree of Life. I stayed there for a couple hours and helped the summer staff girls get all the gifts for the kids organized. I watched them sing a few songs and then I walked down to the houses where the kids who LIVE at the Tree of Life were just getting out of school. I had so much fun just hanging out with them. There were a couple that just wanted to hang on me and have me hold them the entire time.
Of course I fell in LOVE with little Ackim. He is 6 years old and the oldest of 3 brothers that just got moved in 2 weeks ago. His two younger brothers got sponsored right away because they are just little babies. Oh but Ackim was SOOOO cute!! I hope he gets sponsored soon. (If anybody is interested.. let me know!)
Anyways, at dinner last night the Americans all give testimonies of their weeks and of course I just start tearing up because of some of the stories they told. It is always SO COOL to hear people that come for one reason or another and go home a completely different person. Gives me chills just thinking about it. God is so completely intentional about everything He puts in our lives.
I have to tell you what impacted ME the most yesterday. We have one little boy who just moved into the TOL and he has a disability in both his legs. Well I found out that when he moved into the TOL somebody had to physically carry him into the house because he couldn't walk. The next week he was getting around with some help of the other kids. YESTERDAY we had some of the kids run out and meet all the Americans and Gift wasn't one of the ones we picked, but as we let them go Gift took off RUNNING!! His legs were still bent in as he ran, but it didn't matter anymore. He was FREE. Seriously, the sweetest boy. While I was hanging out with them, he just kept coming up to me with the biggest smile and giving me hugs.
Today the new group of Americans come in! And we start all over again :)
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
adventures in London
well after 3 years of actually going into London, I decided I was done with that. Not being able to sleep on a combination of 20 hours of plane rides and up all the day before I left and then up for the 10 hour lay over in London is just really hard on a girl. Know what I mean?
SO one 9 hour plane ride down, 2 train rides, and MANY elevators and escalators, I made it to my home away from home for the next 6 1/2 hours and counting. Yes, I did all of that BY MYSELF. I must say, I'm getting pretty savvy at finding my way around ridiculously big airports. Ok, I may have asked for directions a time or two, but for the most part I did it alone.
I'm not sure what you would call this room. It was described to me as a cruise ship room but as I sit on the bed and look around, I'm pretty sure the length of my body could reach both ends. Ok, I just tried it. I'm about a foot and a half off. Needless to say, I'm more in a little pod then a room. (Jodi if you're reading this, remember when we wanted to share the yotel last year?? Yeah I don't know how that would have worked out!)
I would like to comment that I watched 3 movies and listened to 2 CDs on my trip to London. It is an excellent time to catch up on all the movies that I always had good intentions of seeing but never actually did. Adjustment Bureau anyone?
Ok, I'm off to take a quick shower and a nap!
Here's to hoping the alarm clock pulls through :)
SO one 9 hour plane ride down, 2 train rides, and MANY elevators and escalators, I made it to my home away from home for the next 6 1/2 hours and counting. Yes, I did all of that BY MYSELF. I must say, I'm getting pretty savvy at finding my way around ridiculously big airports. Ok, I may have asked for directions a time or two, but for the most part I did it alone.
I'm not sure what you would call this room. It was described to me as a cruise ship room but as I sit on the bed and look around, I'm pretty sure the length of my body could reach both ends. Ok, I just tried it. I'm about a foot and a half off. Needless to say, I'm more in a little pod then a room. (Jodi if you're reading this, remember when we wanted to share the yotel last year?? Yeah I don't know how that would have worked out!)
I would like to comment that I watched 3 movies and listened to 2 CDs on my trip to London. It is an excellent time to catch up on all the movies that I always had good intentions of seeing but never actually did. Adjustment Bureau anyone?
Ok, I'm off to take a quick shower and a nap!
Here's to hoping the alarm clock pulls through :)
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Faith the size of a mustard seed.
I am OVERJOYED to announce that I will be getting to spend 2 whole months in Zambia this summer! As most of you know, this is a dream come true for me. Since the moment I stepped foot in Zambia back in 2008, I’ve desired nothing more but to return again and again. And now, I’ve graduated college and have been working for Family Legacy for nearly a year.
This year for me has been filled with child sponsorships, playing a role in the development of our Community Resource Centers and helping create deep relationships between the children at the Tree of Life Children’s Village and their sponsors. Although my time has been spent in the states since August, it is the daily work I do that ensures transforming stories of the children in Zambia. This next story is one that has personally touched me the most.
Joseph walks the streets looking for food in the piles of trash that littered the ground. His bare feet land on sharp cans, plastic, rocks, and paper. His clothes are dirty, ripped and too small for his growing body. It’s the same shirt he has worn for the past 3 years. His thin frame reflects the truth of poverty. It reflects the truth of being the youngest in a house of 11. He lifts his jacket sleeves to reveal the malicious burns that adorn his arms. The embarrassment in his eyes proves the severity of his pain, physically and emotionally. The tears that flood his cheeks tell a story too cruel to fathom. His very own grandmother had thrown a boiling pot of hot water all over his body. Why would she do that? Honestly, it doesn’t matter. The fact is, she had the audacity to purposely abuse her grandson. The good news is, it doesn’t end there. He is now in our sponsorship program and has the care and guidance of a Discipleship Leader, a safe place to run to in case he gets locked out of his home at night, and an education that will grow him to be a leader of his generation. God does not forget about the least of these.
I tell this story to say that when you make the commitment to support me, you ultimately set off a chain reaction of eternally significant events. There are many more Joseph’s living in Zambia today – all waiting for just ONE of us to hear their story and take action.
Your support means more to me than I could ever express on paper or in words. Your contributions and prayers ensure that children and families are forever changed by the power of the gospel and forever changing the world in which they live. Joseph’s life will never be the same, and it is because somebody stood up and said “enough is enough”. Enough has been stolen from this young boy’s life, and this is where it ENDS. This summer I know we will meet countless orphaned children, where we learn their story and we say enough is enough! I invite you to be a part of their story and their testimony, one we don’t know yet, but God already has it in the works!
A few weeks ago, I was challenged to thank God every day for the things that I am not yet aware of. So I took that challenge and every morning as I wake up, I thank God for the day He has given me. I don’t know what’s going to happen next, but He does. I realized as time went by, that I stopped worrying about how I would be able to pay my bills because I have an All-Powerful God taking care of me.
Currently, I only have 40% of what I need to continue working with Family Legacy. I have the strictest budget set in place and I have faith God will provide. With that being said, I have exciting news to share with you all. An anonymous donor has offered to give me $200 a month as long as it can be MATCHED! This is an incredible gift! I want to take full advantage of their generosity and ask you to partner with me to increase my monthly support by $400. Even if you can only afford to support me at $15, $25, or $50 a month, that is now doubled to $30, $50, and $100 each month! I humbly ask that you will prayerfully consider giving monthly toward my support account so I can meet the $200 matching gift and continue serving children just like Joseph. All donations are tax- deductible.
“For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20
A mustard seed is about 1/20th of an inch. That’s 1.27 millimeters. That’s the size of faith God asks for. And yet, we often times think that’s too much. Now is the time to sow those seeds, even if it’s as small as a mustard seed. So I’ve written this letter in faith. Faith that God knows exactly how to provide for me. God will take that faith and move mountains. May God richly bless you for your support into the lives of the countless Zambian orphans. I am eternally grateful for YOU!
This year for me has been filled with child sponsorships, playing a role in the development of our Community Resource Centers and helping create deep relationships between the children at the Tree of Life Children’s Village and their sponsors. Although my time has been spent in the states since August, it is the daily work I do that ensures transforming stories of the children in Zambia. This next story is one that has personally touched me the most.
Joseph walks the streets looking for food in the piles of trash that littered the ground. His bare feet land on sharp cans, plastic, rocks, and paper. His clothes are dirty, ripped and too small for his growing body. It’s the same shirt he has worn for the past 3 years. His thin frame reflects the truth of poverty. It reflects the truth of being the youngest in a house of 11. He lifts his jacket sleeves to reveal the malicious burns that adorn his arms. The embarrassment in his eyes proves the severity of his pain, physically and emotionally. The tears that flood his cheeks tell a story too cruel to fathom. His very own grandmother had thrown a boiling pot of hot water all over his body. Why would she do that? Honestly, it doesn’t matter. The fact is, she had the audacity to purposely abuse her grandson. The good news is, it doesn’t end there. He is now in our sponsorship program and has the care and guidance of a Discipleship Leader, a safe place to run to in case he gets locked out of his home at night, and an education that will grow him to be a leader of his generation. God does not forget about the least of these.
I tell this story to say that when you make the commitment to support me, you ultimately set off a chain reaction of eternally significant events. There are many more Joseph’s living in Zambia today – all waiting for just ONE of us to hear their story and take action.
Your support means more to me than I could ever express on paper or in words. Your contributions and prayers ensure that children and families are forever changed by the power of the gospel and forever changing the world in which they live. Joseph’s life will never be the same, and it is because somebody stood up and said “enough is enough”. Enough has been stolen from this young boy’s life, and this is where it ENDS. This summer I know we will meet countless orphaned children, where we learn their story and we say enough is enough! I invite you to be a part of their story and their testimony, one we don’t know yet, but God already has it in the works!
A few weeks ago, I was challenged to thank God every day for the things that I am not yet aware of. So I took that challenge and every morning as I wake up, I thank God for the day He has given me. I don’t know what’s going to happen next, but He does. I realized as time went by, that I stopped worrying about how I would be able to pay my bills because I have an All-Powerful God taking care of me.
Currently, I only have 40% of what I need to continue working with Family Legacy. I have the strictest budget set in place and I have faith God will provide. With that being said, I have exciting news to share with you all. An anonymous donor has offered to give me $200 a month as long as it can be MATCHED! This is an incredible gift! I want to take full advantage of their generosity and ask you to partner with me to increase my monthly support by $400. Even if you can only afford to support me at $15, $25, or $50 a month, that is now doubled to $30, $50, and $100 each month! I humbly ask that you will prayerfully consider giving monthly toward my support account so I can meet the $200 matching gift and continue serving children just like Joseph. All donations are tax- deductible.
“For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20
A mustard seed is about 1/20th of an inch. That’s 1.27 millimeters. That’s the size of faith God asks for. And yet, we often times think that’s too much. Now is the time to sow those seeds, even if it’s as small as a mustard seed. So I’ve written this letter in faith. Faith that God knows exactly how to provide for me. God will take that faith and move mountains. May God richly bless you for your support into the lives of the countless Zambian orphans. I am eternally grateful for YOU!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
it's not about me.
I'll be honest, I've been a little discouraged lately. Things haven't exactly gone my way. (notice the selfish "my" in that statement)
It's a good thing it's not about me.
"who fed you in the wilderness with manna that your fathers did not know, that he might humble you and test you, to do you good in the end. Beware lest you say in your heart, 'My power and the might of my hand have gotten my this wealth.' You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day." Deuteronomy 8:16-18
"I gave you a land on which you had not labored and cities that you had not built, and you dwell in them. You eat the fruit of vineyards and olive orchards that you did not plant." Joshua 24:13
You see, there is no cause/effect relationship between fighting and winning. Or between how hard you work and how much money you make. Take example from how hard peasants worked and how little they earned. Nobody worked harder and everybody had more.
So what's the point of all this? It's really just to remind ourselves that no matter where you've ended up in this life that you didn't get there by earning it. You got there by the grace of God.
"for not by their own sword did they win the land, nor did their own arm save them, but Your right hand and Your arm, and the light of Your face, for You delighted in them." Psalm 44:3
All that I have and all that I have accomplished has been through His hand and His hand only.
"It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for He gives to His beloved EVEN IN HIS SLEEP." Psalm 127:2
That is a powerful verse. Friends, He PROMISES that He will provide for His children. Even when we are sleeping. Even when we are doing nothing. He provides.
So here is where I am at. I am continuing to thank God for the things that I am not yet aware of because I know that he is always working for me. That's easier said then done most days, but I am confident my Lord has a perfect plan already laid out for me.
It's a good thing it's not about me.
"who fed you in the wilderness with manna that your fathers did not know, that he might humble you and test you, to do you good in the end. Beware lest you say in your heart, 'My power and the might of my hand have gotten my this wealth.' You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day." Deuteronomy 8:16-18
"I gave you a land on which you had not labored and cities that you had not built, and you dwell in them. You eat the fruit of vineyards and olive orchards that you did not plant." Joshua 24:13
You see, there is no cause/effect relationship between fighting and winning. Or between how hard you work and how much money you make. Take example from how hard peasants worked and how little they earned. Nobody worked harder and everybody had more.
So what's the point of all this? It's really just to remind ourselves that no matter where you've ended up in this life that you didn't get there by earning it. You got there by the grace of God.
"for not by their own sword did they win the land, nor did their own arm save them, but Your right hand and Your arm, and the light of Your face, for You delighted in them." Psalm 44:3
All that I have and all that I have accomplished has been through His hand and His hand only.
"It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for He gives to His beloved EVEN IN HIS SLEEP." Psalm 127:2
That is a powerful verse. Friends, He PROMISES that He will provide for His children. Even when we are sleeping. Even when we are doing nothing. He provides.
So here is where I am at. I am continuing to thank God for the things that I am not yet aware of because I know that he is always working for me. That's easier said then done most days, but I am confident my Lord has a perfect plan already laid out for me.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
I don't need that.
I used to count myself as very non-materialistic. But here's the thing. The reason I felt like I wasn't materialistic is because I can't afford to be one. I have no money therefore I cannot buy many things. And then I was slapped in the face.
Because although I do not buy things, my mind is still consumed with the want. The want of new clothes. The want of good food. The want of nice jewelry and shoes. The want of money. And if I am wanting all of these things that means I am not content because materialism is the opposite of contentment.
If you're like me then you probably think, "if only I can just buy this one shirt, I will be happy." But what happens after you get the shirt? You move on to the next shirt. And again you say, "If only I can just buy this one shirt, I will be happy." Where does the cycle end?
We will never ever ever be rich enough to stop wanting.
"Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs." 1 Timothy 6:6-10
So, think about all you own. Is there anything in your possession that you aren't willing to give up? Anything you own right now that you can't give away, owns you.
God tells us that as long as we have food and clothing (not excessively) then we should be content. Can you honestly say that holds true for you?
Challenge:
For an entire month, take everything past food and clothing and invest it in the Kingdom rather than yourself.
Practice saying, "I don't need that."
Let me know if you try this. I'd love to hear of the results to this challenge!
Because although I do not buy things, my mind is still consumed with the want. The want of new clothes. The want of good food. The want of nice jewelry and shoes. The want of money. And if I am wanting all of these things that means I am not content because materialism is the opposite of contentment.
If you're like me then you probably think, "if only I can just buy this one shirt, I will be happy." But what happens after you get the shirt? You move on to the next shirt. And again you say, "If only I can just buy this one shirt, I will be happy." Where does the cycle end?
We will never ever ever be rich enough to stop wanting.
"Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs." 1 Timothy 6:6-10
So, think about all you own. Is there anything in your possession that you aren't willing to give up? Anything you own right now that you can't give away, owns you.
God tells us that as long as we have food and clothing (not excessively) then we should be content. Can you honestly say that holds true for you?
Challenge:
For an entire month, take everything past food and clothing and invest it in the Kingdom rather than yourself.
Practice saying, "I don't need that."
Let me know if you try this. I'd love to hear of the results to this challenge!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
time.
I leave for Zambia in 3 months.
Didn't I just get back?! Where on earth has the time gone? So much has to happen before I leave:
-go to California to see brudder bear graduate!
-second team meeting
-Easter
-third team meeting
-Momma J's 50th birthday!!
-showers, parties and wedding for Skye
-party and wedding for Jodi
-move out (but with nowhere to move into!)
-pack?!
-leave for Zambia for 2 WHOLE MONTHS!!
ehhh.. I'm sure I've forgotten a thing or two in between, but my brain just can't hold it all in anymore. Thank the good Lord for calendars :)
Didn't I just get back?! Where on earth has the time gone? So much has to happen before I leave:
-go to California to see brudder bear graduate!
-second team meeting
-Easter
-third team meeting
-Momma J's 50th birthday!!
-showers, parties and wedding for Skye
-party and wedding for Jodi
-move out (but with nowhere to move into!)
-pack?!
-leave for Zambia for 2 WHOLE MONTHS!!
ehhh.. I'm sure I've forgotten a thing or two in between, but my brain just can't hold it all in anymore. Thank the good Lord for calendars :)
Sunday, February 6, 2011
the facts on winning.
Vince Lombardi was famous. He was one of the most successful coaches in NFL history and praised for his motivational speeches and teachings. One of his most known quotes is this:
winning is not a sometime thing; it's an all the time thing.
I learned a little bit more about Vince Lombardi today at church. Packers fans drive past 667 Sunset Circle to get a glimpse of the house Lombardi lived in. Maybe to get some of the motivation that he so famously was known for. Maybe to get the inspiration his players felt every time he gave a speech. But here's the thing. His children, the ones that lived in that house with him for so many years, they never go back. Because they know the man he was behind that door.
Some say that the football field was full of Lombardi's greatest accomplishments. But more importantly is this, 667 Sunset Circle was full of his greatest failures.
If you ask me, I would say his success was only a sometime thing. Maybe it's because he defined winning as the team with the most points on the scoreboard when the clock hit zero instead of the father who taught his children with Love and care.
I think he could take a lesson from Daniel Sepulveda, the punter for the Steelers. This is his second chance to play in the Super Bowl and this is the second time that he has been injured. During an interview, he was asked if he was angry that this has happened to him for a second time. He said obviously he was frustrated, but angry, no. You see, Daniel knew that his football career could come and go, but the one thing that's constant is God's love for him. Besides, God does everything for a reason, right? How often does the punter get interviewed, and here he was being interviewed and he was able to give all the glory to God.
So, what's the point of all of this? I'm not saying don't enjoy the game because it's football and it's fun and exciting. But don't make it everything. Don't put your hope in a game because the glory fades. Put your hope in God because He will always be faithful.
"He must increase, but I must decrease." John 3:30
winning is not a sometime thing; it's an all the time thing.
I learned a little bit more about Vince Lombardi today at church. Packers fans drive past 667 Sunset Circle to get a glimpse of the house Lombardi lived in. Maybe to get some of the motivation that he so famously was known for. Maybe to get the inspiration his players felt every time he gave a speech. But here's the thing. His children, the ones that lived in that house with him for so many years, they never go back. Because they know the man he was behind that door.
Some say that the football field was full of Lombardi's greatest accomplishments. But more importantly is this, 667 Sunset Circle was full of his greatest failures.
If you ask me, I would say his success was only a sometime thing. Maybe it's because he defined winning as the team with the most points on the scoreboard when the clock hit zero instead of the father who taught his children with Love and care.
I think he could take a lesson from Daniel Sepulveda, the punter for the Steelers. This is his second chance to play in the Super Bowl and this is the second time that he has been injured. During an interview, he was asked if he was angry that this has happened to him for a second time. He said obviously he was frustrated, but angry, no. You see, Daniel knew that his football career could come and go, but the one thing that's constant is God's love for him. Besides, God does everything for a reason, right? How often does the punter get interviewed, and here he was being interviewed and he was able to give all the glory to God.
So, what's the point of all of this? I'm not saying don't enjoy the game because it's football and it's fun and exciting. But don't make it everything. Don't put your hope in a game because the glory fades. Put your hope in God because He will always be faithful.
"He must increase, but I must decrease." John 3:30
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
He has proven His might.
This week I've been reminded that we do not deserve life. For those who think we do, well, I'm here to tell you that you're very much mistaken.
Luke Steinmann, an 18 year old boy, has been in a coma for the past 15 days. He had a brain aneurysm while driving that caused him and his younger brother to crash. His brother woke up and is healing well, but Luke has undergone multiple surgeries (the latest being today) to relieve the pressure from the fluid build up in his brain. He is still in a coma. For 15 days his parents have waited for their 18 year old son to wake up. For 15 days they've been praying for complete and total healing. And for 15 days they've been thanking God for an amazing 18 years with their son. Do they hope for 18 more? Without a doubt. Are they angry at God for this aneurysm? Not a chance. Through this time, they've gotten to see how many people their son has impacted. They've gotten to grow closer together and closer to God. Their faith has been strengthened. As I humbly read their blog, I'm reminded that each moment is a gift from the Lord. Thank Him by using those moments to bring Him glory. (Here is the link to the blog if you want to join me in praying for this family: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lukesteinmann)
Once a month, I've started eating lunch with the most amazing woman. She is paralyzed from the neck down due to MS (Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves). I'm not going to lie, I was so nervous the first time I went. I mean, was this going to be awkward? I had to adjust her bed, feed her food, fix her water bottle so that with just a turn of the head she could drink, and most of all talk with her while she eats. What would we even have in common? Let me tell you, this woman is absolutely amazing. I LOVE my time that I get to spend with her! She puts life back in perspective for me. She has to lay in bed all day every day but her sweet and amazing friends have set up a schedule so that she has somebody to eat lunch with her EVERY SINGLE DAY. What a testament to how she has impacted their lives that they would go to such lengths to give her happiness. Today, as we chatting about tv shows, my work, and her family, I realized we have more in common than I thought. We are both daughters of the King. She had me read out of her devotional for the day and it was about not knowing what the future holds, but knowing that God has it all under control. What a perfect message for this week.
recap:
It's through the hardest times that God is able to perform the biggest miracles.
Luke Steinmann, an 18 year old boy, has been in a coma for the past 15 days. He had a brain aneurysm while driving that caused him and his younger brother to crash. His brother woke up and is healing well, but Luke has undergone multiple surgeries (the latest being today) to relieve the pressure from the fluid build up in his brain. He is still in a coma. For 15 days his parents have waited for their 18 year old son to wake up. For 15 days they've been praying for complete and total healing. And for 15 days they've been thanking God for an amazing 18 years with their son. Do they hope for 18 more? Without a doubt. Are they angry at God for this aneurysm? Not a chance. Through this time, they've gotten to see how many people their son has impacted. They've gotten to grow closer together and closer to God. Their faith has been strengthened. As I humbly read their blog, I'm reminded that each moment is a gift from the Lord. Thank Him by using those moments to bring Him glory. (Here is the link to the blog if you want to join me in praying for this family: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lukesteinmann)
Once a month, I've started eating lunch with the most amazing woman. She is paralyzed from the neck down due to MS (Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves). I'm not going to lie, I was so nervous the first time I went. I mean, was this going to be awkward? I had to adjust her bed, feed her food, fix her water bottle so that with just a turn of the head she could drink, and most of all talk with her while she eats. What would we even have in common? Let me tell you, this woman is absolutely amazing. I LOVE my time that I get to spend with her! She puts life back in perspective for me. She has to lay in bed all day every day but her sweet and amazing friends have set up a schedule so that she has somebody to eat lunch with her EVERY SINGLE DAY. What a testament to how she has impacted their lives that they would go to such lengths to give her happiness. Today, as we chatting about tv shows, my work, and her family, I realized we have more in common than I thought. We are both daughters of the King. She had me read out of her devotional for the day and it was about not knowing what the future holds, but knowing that God has it all under control. What a perfect message for this week.
recap:
It's through the hardest times that God is able to perform the biggest miracles.
Friday, December 31, 2010
How will you take part?
"Yet we are the carriers of the gospel-the good news that was meant to change the world. Belief is not enough. Worship is not enough. Personal morality is not enough. And Christian fellowship is not enough. God has always demanded more. When we committed our lives to following Christ, we also committed to living in such a way that a watching world would catch a glimpse of God's character- His love, justice, and mercy- through our words, actions, and behavior." -Richard Stearns, President of World Vision and author of The Hole in Our Gospel
In my office, I was able to pick a verse to go on my wall and this is the one I chose:
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season, we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
Every day when I walk in my office I will be reminded that NO MATTER how hard it gets, no matter how frustrated I become, I will never stop what I am doing. Because if I do, who then, will tell the kids all about their loving and powerful Savior?
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believed, to the Jew first and also to the Greek." Romans 1:16
we were not meant to be quiet missionaries. Live your life out loud. Let Christ exude from your actions. Let the world see Christ rather than yourself. That's the point. Do you see? We do good because Christ was good. We take care of others because Christ took care of others. We share the gospel because that's what Christ did.
How will you take part? This new year I ask each of you to think about partnering with me as I continue my work at Family Legacy. Monthly gifts of $10, $25, or $50 are such a blessing. If you can't support monthly, but still want to give, one-time gifts are so appreciated. Follow this link to see my support page:
href="https://donate.familylegacy.com/sslpage.aspx?pid=382"
Your gifts not only make a difference in my life, but they make an eternal impact in the lives of the over 2,000 children that are in our sponsorship program. Without you, I wouldn't be able to be directly involved in their lives.
Thank you to those who have already taken part prayerfully or financially. You have blessed me more than you know!
In my office, I was able to pick a verse to go on my wall and this is the one I chose:
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season, we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
Every day when I walk in my office I will be reminded that NO MATTER how hard it gets, no matter how frustrated I become, I will never stop what I am doing. Because if I do, who then, will tell the kids all about their loving and powerful Savior?
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believed, to the Jew first and also to the Greek." Romans 1:16
we were not meant to be quiet missionaries. Live your life out loud. Let Christ exude from your actions. Let the world see Christ rather than yourself. That's the point. Do you see? We do good because Christ was good. We take care of others because Christ took care of others. We share the gospel because that's what Christ did.
How will you take part? This new year I ask each of you to think about partnering with me as I continue my work at Family Legacy. Monthly gifts of $10, $25, or $50 are such a blessing. If you can't support monthly, but still want to give, one-time gifts are so appreciated. Follow this link to see my support page:
href="https://donate.familylegacy.com/sslpage.aspx?pid=382"
Your gifts not only make a difference in my life, but they make an eternal impact in the lives of the over 2,000 children that are in our sponsorship program. Without you, I wouldn't be able to be directly involved in their lives.
Thank you to those who have already taken part prayerfully or financially. You have blessed me more than you know!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Because I'm grateful, grateful, so grateful.
Every year in Zambia we are able to give tennis shoes to all the kids in our groups. It's been such a blessing to my boys who will come back the next year wearing the same shoes I gave them the year before. These shoes mean the world to them. They may be the only pair they've ever had in their entire lives. Most of them wear these plastic slip on sandals instead because they are more affordable.
Week 7 of camp this year, we were finding that there was a shortage of the middle aged boys shoes. Exactly the sizes I would be needing. We had a back up plan though, somebody had donated thousands upon thousands of crocs. Now, to Zambians, crocs are considered cheap. They are made of plastic, just like the shoes they wear because they can't get anything better. Because we didn't have enough tennis shoes, we had to mix the crocs and shoes that week. Meaning, one kid in your group may get air forces and the next get a nice pair of bright blue crocs. This caused a lot of grumbling, crying, pouting, arguing, and flat out bad attitudes. The kids had forgotten that these shoes were a GIFT from God. They began to expect the shoes rather than be thankful for something that was given to them.
Finally, it was my turn to give shoes. My boys were so excited and one by one I was able to give them ALL air force ones. It was amazing. Until Alick. He unfortunately had the smallest feet of my group and they didn't have his size. When I gave him the crocs, he smiled from ear to ear and ran to go show off his new shoes. What a relief. Only one boy had to get crocs, but it seemed to be turning out just fine.
When we went outside and everybody was inspecting each others shoes, Alick realized he was the only one with the plastic shoes. All of a sudden he began to complain that his shoes didn't fit him and he needed a new pair. My heart broke for him because I wanted so badly to give him what he wanted, but I knew that I couldn't do that. So I reminded him that these shoes were hand picked for him and that they are the perfect fit.
Right before we loaded the buses to head into the communities, Alick came up to me and apologized for not liking his shoes. He said, "I love them! God gave me shoes and they were a gift. They are good to me!" I hugged him so tightly and praised Jesus for Alick's amazing attitude. We spent the rest of the afternoon evangelizing to the people of their communities and when we were done, again Alick came to tell me something. He said, "My friends made fun of me for having plastic shoes today, but I told them that I loved them! They may not be good for them, but they are so good for me. God gave me these shoes and so I love them!"
What an example. He may not have gotten the "best" shoes according to the standards of others, but he knew that his were absolutely meant for him. I know God gave them to Alick for a reason. He humbly accepted his gift and appreciated his shoes for the blessing that they were. In turn, every single one of my boys were taught a lesson of gratitude.
Hezekiah Walker says it well:
I am grateful for the things that You have done
I am grateful for the victories we've won
I could go on and on about your works
Because I'm grateful, grateful, so grateful just to praise You Lord.
Week 7 of camp this year, we were finding that there was a shortage of the middle aged boys shoes. Exactly the sizes I would be needing. We had a back up plan though, somebody had donated thousands upon thousands of crocs. Now, to Zambians, crocs are considered cheap. They are made of plastic, just like the shoes they wear because they can't get anything better. Because we didn't have enough tennis shoes, we had to mix the crocs and shoes that week. Meaning, one kid in your group may get air forces and the next get a nice pair of bright blue crocs. This caused a lot of grumbling, crying, pouting, arguing, and flat out bad attitudes. The kids had forgotten that these shoes were a GIFT from God. They began to expect the shoes rather than be thankful for something that was given to them.
Finally, it was my turn to give shoes. My boys were so excited and one by one I was able to give them ALL air force ones. It was amazing. Until Alick. He unfortunately had the smallest feet of my group and they didn't have his size. When I gave him the crocs, he smiled from ear to ear and ran to go show off his new shoes. What a relief. Only one boy had to get crocs, but it seemed to be turning out just fine.
When we went outside and everybody was inspecting each others shoes, Alick realized he was the only one with the plastic shoes. All of a sudden he began to complain that his shoes didn't fit him and he needed a new pair. My heart broke for him because I wanted so badly to give him what he wanted, but I knew that I couldn't do that. So I reminded him that these shoes were hand picked for him and that they are the perfect fit.
Right before we loaded the buses to head into the communities, Alick came up to me and apologized for not liking his shoes. He said, "I love them! God gave me shoes and they were a gift. They are good to me!" I hugged him so tightly and praised Jesus for Alick's amazing attitude. We spent the rest of the afternoon evangelizing to the people of their communities and when we were done, again Alick came to tell me something. He said, "My friends made fun of me for having plastic shoes today, but I told them that I loved them! They may not be good for them, but they are so good for me. God gave me these shoes and so I love them!"
What an example. He may not have gotten the "best" shoes according to the standards of others, but he knew that his were absolutely meant for him. I know God gave them to Alick for a reason. He humbly accepted his gift and appreciated his shoes for the blessing that they were. In turn, every single one of my boys were taught a lesson of gratitude.
Hezekiah Walker says it well:
I am grateful for the things that You have done
I am grateful for the victories we've won
I could go on and on about your works
Because I'm grateful, grateful, so grateful just to praise You Lord.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
This little light of mine.
This weekend I was inspired.
On Thursday, I was inspired by Chuck Madden. I've known Chuck since June and from day 1 I knew God had ordained us to meet. He has taught me so much more about what our relationship with Christ should look like than any other person. I am inspired through his actions. Yearly, he reads through the entire Bible. Daily, he memorizes scripture. He taught me that it isn't a matter of if you can or cannot, but rather if you do or do not want to. So, I choose to do it. I choose to push myself to know more about God because I want to and because I can.
On Friday, I was inspired by a man from Liberia, Olu Menjay. He said everyday his mission is to try. Olu has overcome obstacles far more terrifying than neither you nor I could ever imagine. The fate of his life rested on his answer to one question. Was he related to Harrison Menjay? As divine intervention would have it, the guard knew his father and was set free because of the good man his father was. He has gone back to Liberia after getting an education in the states and has helped get Ricks Institute to be the brightest light in primary and secondary education in all of Liberia.
Saturday morning, I was inspired by the yellow and orange trees, I was inspired by the crisp November air, and I was inspired by the peacefulness of the lake. That morning I was able to rest and relax in presence of God's beauty. It was an overwhelming thought that God planned that exact morning just for me. He ordered His most vibrant colors and the most perfect temperature just for me. I didn't have my camera with me, but I'm convinced that a photo wouldn't have done it justice at all.
Saturday evening, I was inspired by a woman named Georgia. I spoke to her about Zambia and the precious little babies that are just yearning to know the love of Jesus by His faithful servants who heard the calling and accepted. She listened to my whole speech and I could see in her eyes that she got it. But then she surprised me. She told me that she wished she could go, but she knew that God had already called her to take care of her parents who need 24/7 attention. As we talked, I reminded her that God will reward her for her obedience and what she is doing is very much a mission. She then went on to reveal to me that she can never be a mom, but that she works for a daycare and has 15 little 3 year olds in her class. How obvious it was, God has already made her a mom! She has 15 little cuties that she gets to take care of everyday! I told her I had 15 kids too, in Zambia. I was inspired by Georgia's faithfulness and obedience.
Later last night, I was blessed to see Addison Road and Shane and Shane perform. I was inspired by the harmony of Shane and Shane's voices. How perfectly they fit together. I was inspired by the LIGHT that Addison Road so brightly shines as they spoke about their belief that we are all called to reach out and do something.
All of these people are following God's plan. They shined their lights out to others and I know for a fact that I am not the only one who has been impacted by them. That is what it's all about.
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden...In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:14,16
This Little Light by Addison Road. Listen and be inspired too.
On Thursday, I was inspired by Chuck Madden. I've known Chuck since June and from day 1 I knew God had ordained us to meet. He has taught me so much more about what our relationship with Christ should look like than any other person. I am inspired through his actions. Yearly, he reads through the entire Bible. Daily, he memorizes scripture. He taught me that it isn't a matter of if you can or cannot, but rather if you do or do not want to. So, I choose to do it. I choose to push myself to know more about God because I want to and because I can.
On Friday, I was inspired by a man from Liberia, Olu Menjay. He said everyday his mission is to try. Olu has overcome obstacles far more terrifying than neither you nor I could ever imagine. The fate of his life rested on his answer to one question. Was he related to Harrison Menjay? As divine intervention would have it, the guard knew his father and was set free because of the good man his father was. He has gone back to Liberia after getting an education in the states and has helped get Ricks Institute to be the brightest light in primary and secondary education in all of Liberia.
Saturday morning, I was inspired by the yellow and orange trees, I was inspired by the crisp November air, and I was inspired by the peacefulness of the lake. That morning I was able to rest and relax in presence of God's beauty. It was an overwhelming thought that God planned that exact morning just for me. He ordered His most vibrant colors and the most perfect temperature just for me. I didn't have my camera with me, but I'm convinced that a photo wouldn't have done it justice at all.
Saturday evening, I was inspired by a woman named Georgia. I spoke to her about Zambia and the precious little babies that are just yearning to know the love of Jesus by His faithful servants who heard the calling and accepted. She listened to my whole speech and I could see in her eyes that she got it. But then she surprised me. She told me that she wished she could go, but she knew that God had already called her to take care of her parents who need 24/7 attention. As we talked, I reminded her that God will reward her for her obedience and what she is doing is very much a mission. She then went on to reveal to me that she can never be a mom, but that she works for a daycare and has 15 little 3 year olds in her class. How obvious it was, God has already made her a mom! She has 15 little cuties that she gets to take care of everyday! I told her I had 15 kids too, in Zambia. I was inspired by Georgia's faithfulness and obedience.
Later last night, I was blessed to see Addison Road and Shane and Shane perform. I was inspired by the harmony of Shane and Shane's voices. How perfectly they fit together. I was inspired by the LIGHT that Addison Road so brightly shines as they spoke about their belief that we are all called to reach out and do something.
All of these people are following God's plan. They shined their lights out to others and I know for a fact that I am not the only one who has been impacted by them. That is what it's all about.
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden...In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:14,16
This Little Light by Addison Road. Listen and be inspired too.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
You have been called.
"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished." Acts 4:13
We, much like Peter and John, are uneducated, common men. We have no title or ranking. We have no birth rights making us superior to others, but do we not see Peter's example? So how can we ever give the excuse that we couldn't possibly speak up when proclaiming God's name to others? How could we possibly think that it's not important to step up in boldness? How could we possibly think that it's ever ok to not share the truth we know?
So here's the truth. There are a million children orphaned in Zambia right now. They're living without homes, food, clothes, and parents. That's one million little hearts that have been broken because they have been abandoned and forgotten about. Do you hear?
Here's even more truth. Those kids, the ones that the rest of the world discarded, God has a plan for them. They are heirs to His kingdom. They are royalty by blood-- The blood Jesus shed because God so boldly loved us.
Friends, you have been called.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Matthew 28:19
It is written, every single one of you has been called. So be bold. Step out. Speak up. Gather friends. Reach others. Love fully. Answer the calling.
We, much like Peter and John, are uneducated, common men. We have no title or ranking. We have no birth rights making us superior to others, but do we not see Peter's example? So how can we ever give the excuse that we couldn't possibly speak up when proclaiming God's name to others? How could we possibly think that it's not important to step up in boldness? How could we possibly think that it's ever ok to not share the truth we know?
So here's the truth. There are a million children orphaned in Zambia right now. They're living without homes, food, clothes, and parents. That's one million little hearts that have been broken because they have been abandoned and forgotten about. Do you hear?
Here's even more truth. Those kids, the ones that the rest of the world discarded, God has a plan for them. They are heirs to His kingdom. They are royalty by blood-- The blood Jesus shed because God so boldly loved us.
Friends, you have been called.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Matthew 28:19
It is written, every single one of you has been called. So be bold. Step out. Speak up. Gather friends. Reach others. Love fully. Answer the calling.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Our works verify our faith.
"God is not man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind. Has he said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not fulfill it?" Numbers 23:19
This week I'm learning a lot about faith. I just joined an "organic" community group at Watermark. It's organic because we put it together ourselves. Whoop for meeting new friends through the summer and coming together to keep each other accountable. We decided to start our group off by reading through the book of Acts. What better way to dig down deep? Anyways we're up to chapter 3, but something in 2 really struck a chord with me.
2:37-- "Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart."
To give you some context, Peter is preaching to the people who have gathered together. He spoke of Jesus and the promise He has for the people who believe in the One who sent Him. He spoke of the people who denied Him and crucified Him. Finally, their ears were opened and they were burdened with what they had done. The Bible says they were cut to the heart. Other versions say they were pricked in heart, and even that their hearts were pierced.
What did it take? It took Jesus dying and then Peter, who had denied Jesus in the past, to speak publicly about Christ.
As for me, what will it take? Jesus already died for me. I already know the Truth He came to share. Shouldn't this be the part where my heart is pierced? Shouldn't I be repenting right now? Instead, I continually crucify Christ when I don't believe that He can take care of me. Or how about when I cling to what little money I do have and give the excuse of I need it to pay bills. So what, maybe I do. Oh ye of little faith. Have I forgotten that God blesses those that lend to the poor? I need to stop hiding behind the excuse that I am the poor. Look at what the Bible says next:
2:45--"And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need."
That's it. They figured it out. They have faith in God and their actions reflect that faith. They need nothing else.
This morning at church, I heard something that resonated with me. Listen here, if you wait until your schedule clears to help others or until you have enough money to give some away, you'll always be waiting. God WILL provide.
Trust Him and show your faith.
This week I'm learning a lot about faith. I just joined an "organic" community group at Watermark. It's organic because we put it together ourselves. Whoop for meeting new friends through the summer and coming together to keep each other accountable. We decided to start our group off by reading through the book of Acts. What better way to dig down deep? Anyways we're up to chapter 3, but something in 2 really struck a chord with me.
2:37-- "Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart."
To give you some context, Peter is preaching to the people who have gathered together. He spoke of Jesus and the promise He has for the people who believe in the One who sent Him. He spoke of the people who denied Him and crucified Him. Finally, their ears were opened and they were burdened with what they had done. The Bible says they were cut to the heart. Other versions say they were pricked in heart, and even that their hearts were pierced.
What did it take? It took Jesus dying and then Peter, who had denied Jesus in the past, to speak publicly about Christ.
As for me, what will it take? Jesus already died for me. I already know the Truth He came to share. Shouldn't this be the part where my heart is pierced? Shouldn't I be repenting right now? Instead, I continually crucify Christ when I don't believe that He can take care of me. Or how about when I cling to what little money I do have and give the excuse of I need it to pay bills. So what, maybe I do. Oh ye of little faith. Have I forgotten that God blesses those that lend to the poor? I need to stop hiding behind the excuse that I am the poor. Look at what the Bible says next:
2:45--"And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need."
That's it. They figured it out. They have faith in God and their actions reflect that faith. They need nothing else.
This morning at church, I heard something that resonated with me. Listen here, if you wait until your schedule clears to help others or until you have enough money to give some away, you'll always be waiting. God WILL provide.
Trust Him and show your faith.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
There will be chills.
so this past week it's been all banquet all the time. Getting to work at 9am and staying past 11. Why?
All for the Glory of God.
This banquet is not about me. It's not about staff or the things we have done to put it together. It's about God and the love He has for His children. It's about taking care of them. It's about being God's hands when my boys need a hand to hold. It's about being His feet when they need a friend to race them. It's about being His arms to carry the sacks of food He freely gives.
The stories that will be told at this banquet are going to be mind blowing. Greer likes to keep things a surprise, but from what I do know, I'll tell you this: There will be chills.
And so in anticipation of Saturday night I'll leave you with a short story of my boys. It's just a sweet story of their love for me. As we're in the communities, sometimes we have to jump big rocks and over holes and through some bushes. Now, if you're Zambian this is no big deal. They fly over the holes with the all the ease in the world. But if you're American.. sometimes it's not so easy. It takes a running start to jump rocks. It takes extra effort to climb them. And it takes a few more hands to find the path through the bushes. Praise Jesus I have boys who love me to death because I think every time we came up to a hole all of them stopped to help me over it. I think all of them were willing to push me up hills. Every single one of them helped me balance when walking on narrow paths.
As much as I try to take care of them, they are doing the exact same thing for me. Oh my heart. It breaks to not be with them, but I know that the reunion will be even sweeter than before!
All for the Glory of God.
This banquet is not about me. It's not about staff or the things we have done to put it together. It's about God and the love He has for His children. It's about taking care of them. It's about being God's hands when my boys need a hand to hold. It's about being His feet when they need a friend to race them. It's about being His arms to carry the sacks of food He freely gives.
The stories that will be told at this banquet are going to be mind blowing. Greer likes to keep things a surprise, but from what I do know, I'll tell you this: There will be chills.
And so in anticipation of Saturday night I'll leave you with a short story of my boys. It's just a sweet story of their love for me. As we're in the communities, sometimes we have to jump big rocks and over holes and through some bushes. Now, if you're Zambian this is no big deal. They fly over the holes with the all the ease in the world. But if you're American.. sometimes it's not so easy. It takes a running start to jump rocks. It takes extra effort to climb them. And it takes a few more hands to find the path through the bushes. Praise Jesus I have boys who love me to death because I think every time we came up to a hole all of them stopped to help me over it. I think all of them were willing to push me up hills. Every single one of them helped me balance when walking on narrow paths.
As much as I try to take care of them, they are doing the exact same thing for me. Oh my heart. It breaks to not be with them, but I know that the reunion will be even sweeter than before!
Friday, August 27, 2010
Find your Calcutta.
This very minute, it is the middle of the night for my precious boys. I wish I could say they were tucked into their comfy beds, with a mother's love warming their bodies from the room next door. But the truth is, they don't have beds. The truth is, the don't have houses big enough to have rooms. The truth is, the don't have mothers.
The first time I met them, back in 2008, they were what we call "the walking dead." They were lifeless. Their eyes were empty and hollow. BUT I knew that I was sent there that year to show them the life they were always meant to have. They didn't trust me at first because they had no reason to. Nobody in their entire lives had ever taken the time to earn their trust. So I started from the beginning. And I poured every ounce of love onto them until I was physically and emotionally exhausted. In return, I got hugs that were so tight that my insides were undoubtedly squished. I held hands for so long that I had to run along side of the bus because they wouldn't let go as they were leaving. I got tears from young men who were taught to never show emotion.
Year by year I kept going back because the Lord kept telling me His work wasn't done. I became employed by Family Legacy this year because He needed me to give more than just a few weeks to the place He has called me to.
This year when I asked my boys what they wanted to be when they grow up, do you know what they said? They wanted to work for Family Legacy too. I've loved these boys for 2 full years now, but God, He's loved them for an eternity. He only used me to be a tangible image of that love. And now there is an evident glow deep inside each of their souls that radiates out to others as they shine the Light.
Mother Teresa dedicated her life to the people that the rest of the world has forgotten about. She cared for the lepers and the widows and the destitute in Calcutta. She gave her life to Christ, and therefore devoted her life to the people who have been outcasted by worldly standards.
She always said, "Calcuttas are everywhere if only we have eyes to see. Find your Calcutta."
Friends, go seek your own Calcutta. It may be across the world, or maybe just across the street. Go and pursue it.
The first time I met them, back in 2008, they were what we call "the walking dead." They were lifeless. Their eyes were empty and hollow. BUT I knew that I was sent there that year to show them the life they were always meant to have. They didn't trust me at first because they had no reason to. Nobody in their entire lives had ever taken the time to earn their trust. So I started from the beginning. And I poured every ounce of love onto them until I was physically and emotionally exhausted. In return, I got hugs that were so tight that my insides were undoubtedly squished. I held hands for so long that I had to run along side of the bus because they wouldn't let go as they were leaving. I got tears from young men who were taught to never show emotion.
Year by year I kept going back because the Lord kept telling me His work wasn't done. I became employed by Family Legacy this year because He needed me to give more than just a few weeks to the place He has called me to.
This year when I asked my boys what they wanted to be when they grow up, do you know what they said? They wanted to work for Family Legacy too. I've loved these boys for 2 full years now, but God, He's loved them for an eternity. He only used me to be a tangible image of that love. And now there is an evident glow deep inside each of their souls that radiates out to others as they shine the Light.
Mother Teresa dedicated her life to the people that the rest of the world has forgotten about. She cared for the lepers and the widows and the destitute in Calcutta. She gave her life to Christ, and therefore devoted her life to the people who have been outcasted by worldly standards.
She always said, "Calcuttas are everywhere if only we have eyes to see. Find your Calcutta."
Friends, go seek your own Calcutta. It may be across the world, or maybe just across the street. Go and pursue it.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Oh, my child.
I've officially been in the real world for 2 1/2 months now. On one hand it seems like the summer flew by, but on the other hand it feels like years ago that I was in school. I think since I moved up to Dallas right after I graduated and started work, I was forced to change my mindset as a college student to real world very quickly.
But let me tell you, my real world is incredible. In my world, I get to stare at the faces I fell in love with in Zambia everyday. In my world, I get to help them get sponsored. In my world, I get to work with people who actually understand where my heart is, because their hearts are there too.
Finally, Africa isn't just a summer trip. I don't have to think about homework, tests, meetings and papers first. Africa is now first. Joseph, Gracious, Steven, Brian, Lyson, Blessings, Peter, Chrispin, James, Matthew, Alick, Alex, Francis, Smart and Anold are first. The children at the Tree of Life Village are first. The Community Resource Centers are first. Christ at the center of all of these things is first.
On the last day of camp my baby boy, Joseph, looked at me with all the longing in the world. He said, "Please, Auntie Kailee, promise me that you won't forget about me." Oh my child, how could you not know that I think about you everyday? How could you not know that I love you with every ounce of me? Don't you know that you mean everything to me? Don't you know that I will NEVER forget you?
But then that made me think. We're all a little like Joseph. Daily, the Lord pours His love out on us and yet we question whether or not He will remember us tomorrow. I didn't understand how Joseph could doubt my devotion toward him, but it became an all too familiar feeling when I later asked God the same question. He answered me, "Oh my child, how could you not know that I think about you everyday? How could you not know that I love you with every ounce of me? Don't you know that you mean everything to me? Don't you know that I will NEVER forget you?"
"And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, nor angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow-not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below-indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39
But let me tell you, my real world is incredible. In my world, I get to stare at the faces I fell in love with in Zambia everyday. In my world, I get to help them get sponsored. In my world, I get to work with people who actually understand where my heart is, because their hearts are there too.
Finally, Africa isn't just a summer trip. I don't have to think about homework, tests, meetings and papers first. Africa is now first. Joseph, Gracious, Steven, Brian, Lyson, Blessings, Peter, Chrispin, James, Matthew, Alick, Alex, Francis, Smart and Anold are first. The children at the Tree of Life Village are first. The Community Resource Centers are first. Christ at the center of all of these things is first.
On the last day of camp my baby boy, Joseph, looked at me with all the longing in the world. He said, "Please, Auntie Kailee, promise me that you won't forget about me." Oh my child, how could you not know that I think about you everyday? How could you not know that I love you with every ounce of me? Don't you know that you mean everything to me? Don't you know that I will NEVER forget you?
But then that made me think. We're all a little like Joseph. Daily, the Lord pours His love out on us and yet we question whether or not He will remember us tomorrow. I didn't understand how Joseph could doubt my devotion toward him, but it became an all too familiar feeling when I later asked God the same question. He answered me, "Oh my child, how could you not know that I think about you everyday? How could you not know that I love you with every ounce of me? Don't you know that you mean everything to me? Don't you know that I will NEVER forget you?"
"And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, nor angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow-not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below-indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Our actions betray our testimony.
"And let us not grow weary of doing good for in due season we will reap if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." Galatians 5:13
"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness." Phil 2:5-7
Over and over the Bible tells us how we should behave. Over and over we repeat those words to others. Over and over we forget those words pertain to ourselves as well.
Our actions betray our testimony.
If we don't have actions to back up our words, what good is our word?
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently as his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like." James 1:22-24
This is a call to action. We know what we're supposed to do, now let's act on it. Don't worry about what you can't do, but be faithful about what you can.
You were given a week, what did you spend it on? What will you spend next week on?
"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." Galatians 5:13
"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness." Phil 2:5-7
Over and over the Bible tells us how we should behave. Over and over we repeat those words to others. Over and over we forget those words pertain to ourselves as well.
Our actions betray our testimony.
If we don't have actions to back up our words, what good is our word?
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently as his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like." James 1:22-24
This is a call to action. We know what we're supposed to do, now let's act on it. Don't worry about what you can't do, but be faithful about what you can.
You were given a week, what did you spend it on? What will you spend next week on?
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