a fruitful vine and olive shoots

Women for Missions, December Meeting

2011-12-16T07:35:00.000-08:00

One of the joys I have experienced this year is getting to serve as our church's Women for Missions Vice President. Here is a recent guest blog post I did for Hampton Park's website:

"I have now to ask whether you can consent to part with your daughter early next spring, to see her no more in this world; whether you can consent to her departure for a heathen land, and her subjection to the hardships and sufferings of a missionary life; whether you can consent to her exposure to the dangers of the ocean; to the fatal influence of the southern climate of India; to every kind of want and distress; to degradation, insult, persecution, and perhaps a violent death? Can you consent to all this for the sake of Him who left His heavenly home, and died for her and for you; for the sake of perishing immortal souls; for the sake of Zion and the glory of God? Can you consent to all this in hope of soon meeting your daughter in the world of glory, with a crown of righteousness, brightened by the acclamations of praise which shall redound to her Saviour from heathens saved, through her means, from eternal woe and despair?" (an excerpt from Adoniram Judson's proposal letter to Mr. and Mrs. Hasseltine for permission to marry Ann, quoted in Arabella W. Stuart's The Three Mrs. Judsons)

Our speaker this month at Women for Missions was Mrs. Brent (Sheila) Moeller. And though Brent's proposal to Sheila and the Williamses wasn't quite so dramatic as Adoniram Judson's (circa 1812), God had very definitely already begun directing Brent's path to South Africa when he asked for Sheila's hand in marriage. She was well aware that marrying Brent meant giving her life for the sake of the Gospel, and she gladly accepted.

Brent and Sheila have now invested twenty years planting four churches and participating in the sufferings of Christ for the advancement of His Kingdom in South Africa. This last term in many ways has been the most challenging on many counts including personal health trials. But God has sustained them, and Sheila was able to share with us her beautiful smile and a gracious testimony of praise.

While enjoying a beautiful assortment of Christmas goodies, Sheila exposed us to a collection of "English" phrases commonly used in South Africa. Then after jotting notes of encouragement to our missionary ladies around the world and focusing our attentions on prayer for them, Sheila shared with us an open word of personal testimony as well as her family's ministry DVD.

Vibrant African singing accompanied photos and video clips of the Moeller's ministry. One vignette occasioned some explanation: a group of men danced and clapped, singing enthusiastically at a tent revival. Sheila explained their culture's tradition of taking turns dancing before their king. First the grandfathers, then the grandmothers, followed by the men and women, the youths, and finally the children, each dance and sing before their king to declare their allegiance to him. In this evangelistic revival, the Christians of their community declared their allegiance to their new King, Jesus. What a beautiful and meaningful expose.

Thank you so much for sharing with us, Sheila. And thank you for ministering faithfully alongside Brent and with your three children. We count it a privilege to partner with you for the sake of our King.

If you missed this month's meeting, please grab the prayer list from beside the WFM bulletin in the hallway behind the main auditorium. Our next meeting will be the first Tuesday in February (speaker: TBD) at 7 pm in the Blue Room. We would love to have you join us as we put together gift baskets for our missionary kids who are attending college here in Greenville (about 15 of them) and who especially love home-baked goods.

Until then, keep upholding our missionary families before the throne of grace, praying especially for their gospel outreaches over the busy holiday season and for their faithful endurance in their personal walks with God.

michelle

Proverbs 4

2011-12-08T09:16:00.000-08:00

This one's for Micah, who after a recent crash on his bicycle wanted me to take a picture to send to Grampa before he'd get up. From a mom who is very thankful for the KidVantage program at Sears that replaces holey blue jeans for free if they "wear out before they grow out."

Throughout Proverbs 4 the word picture of a path shows up: the path of righteousness/way of wisdom and the path of the wicked/way of the evil.

From Proverbs 4:

11 I have taught you the way of wisdom;
I have led you in the paths of uprightness.
12 When you walk, your step will not be hampered;
and if you run, you will not stumble.

My attention was drawn to the word hampered. I had to check in with Webster on this one because the first thought that came to my mind was the laundry hamper. (Yes, typical Mommy moment.) And whereas there's a stinky connection between people who try to make you trip or throw nerf footballs at your bicycle spokes, hamper in this context has these ideas:

to keep from moving or acting freely; hinder (hold back, thwart progress); impede; encumber (hold back motion or action of, as with a burden; block up; burden; weigh down).

Lots of cross-references come to mind (e.g., Hebrews 12:1; I John 5:3; biblegateway.com search of "burden" in Nehemiah, ESV), and allusions to Pilgrim's Progress with that burden, etc. The idea is clear: it's anything that gets in the way of progress or growth in your Christian life.

There are those who ...

16 ... cannot sleep unless they have done wrong;
[who] are robbed of sleep unless they have made someone stumble.
17 For they eat the bread of wickedness
and drink the wine of violence.

But as long as you follow the way of wisdom and the path of righteousness, passed down by parents who themselves have learned to fear the Lord (see the first verses regarding the instruction of parents: hear, give attention, etc.),

26 ...then all your ways will be sure.

And ... coming back to verse 12:

When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble.

Sure, you may still need replacement pairs of blue jeans, and you may still fall off your bike. There will still be people who try to trip you up. But God's proverbial principle here is that His wisdom will keep you from spiritual destruction as you stick to what He's taught you. His wisdom will protect you, like a body guard, along the right path. You won't be hampered, but instead you'll have so much freedom of movement as you walk, run, even "soar with wings as eagles" (Isaiah 40:31) in your relationship walk with Him.

Have fun with this one. And note, when you do get your eyes of the path and stumble, God is ready to pick you back up and restore you, cleanse the wound and set you straight again. Praise the LORD!

michelle

NLT Bible Give Away

2011-12-03T16:28:00.001-08:00

Click and follow directions to enter:
http://www.facebook.com/NewLivingTranslation?sk=app_121121694568521

constantly risking absurdity

2011-11-29T16:29:00.000-08:00

Pulling out a college critique, remembering and loving what I learned, and willing to share this one because it's so fun. I'm sure I haven't "caught" everything in this poem, and I'd love to hear your comments on it below. But here's what I came up with as a poetry writing student. Comments in brackets are more recent additions of thought.

"Constantly Risking Absurdity" by Lawrence Ferlinghetti is a fabulously crafted poem comparing a poet to an acrobat. I love this comparison! This poet risks "absurdity" by breaking traditional expectations of a poem. He risks death of his writing career if his poetry is not caught by his reader--just as the high wire acrobat risks certain death if she is not caught by the "little charleychaplin man" (29).

I love Ferlinghetti's choices of words. [He plays with sounds, consonants ("constantly risking absurdity," 1, "balancing on eyebeams," 9), and vowels ("like...climbs...rime...high wire," 6-8), sometimes with alliteration ("perforce perceive," 20, "taut truth," 21, "fair...form," 31), sometimes with internal rhyme ("climbs on rime," 7). He combines words or separates them out, to make his own point, or just to show off: "any thing" (17), "charleychaplin" (29), "spreadeagled" (32).] He chooses the unfamiliar spelling of rhyme/rime (7) [which may intensify his risk taking since "rime" most often means an icy coating, leaving his "high wire" slippery and dangerous]. Ferlinghetti thus "climbs...to a high wire of his own making" (7,8) as the creator of this poem.

He is a [super] "realist" (19) needing to express an accurate, concrete representation which he "by force of his circumstances" (Webster, "perforce," from line 20) "understands through his senses" (Webster, "perceives," also line 20). Nims's textbook on writing poetry teaches the concept of using concrete images (Wester Wind, 4), which seems to be exactly what Ferlinghetti is trying to communicate the importance of. ["Super" could mean he's a fabulous realist (wonderful poet), or perhaps, that he is above or beyond realism: Ferlinghetti was an advocate of surrealism.]

I love all of the poetic "entrechats" (13) and how Ferlinghetti accomplishes these great stunts without compromising the clarity of his poem (16-18). He has carefully placed each word just as an acrobat would selectively place each "stance or step" (22). I, as the reader, am sort of the "little charleychaplin man" (29) who has caught the "Beauty" (25) of this poem and absolutely fallen in love with it!

Ferlinghetti's chosen "form" (31) reinforces the risk of absurdity that is depicted in the content of this poem. He has chosen to use an absurd layout [not always accurately depicted on online versions, the lines of the poem were intentionally started at varying points across the page]--totally nontraditional and unconventional--and he forsakes the customary principles of punctuation and capitalization as well.

Yet his writing is "taut" (21)--tightly woven and "marked by economy of structure and detail" (Webster, "taut"). [He has created his lines--"a high wire of his own making" (8)--and he must across it.]

In my opinion, Ferlinghetti defied death with this poem...and won, poetically speaking.

Marginal notes:
Poetic puns:
"above the heads/ of his audience" (4,5)
"climbs on rime" (7) rime/rhyme
"sleight-of-foot" (14) foot/meter
["supposed advance" (23)]
"with gravity" (26)
["fair eternal form" (31)]

[Other critiques or analyses that I found interesting are here, here, here and here.]

Questions:
Question: Some have wondered, does he mean that Beauty is on a higher perch that Truth, more important? [To me, Truth seems to be the rope, what he's crafted/written; The poet seems to be an acrobat performing alongside Beauty.]

[Question: Did Ferlinghetti have a Beauty that performed alongside him, perhaps another poet whom he loved?]

[Question: What does "to the other side of day" mean (12)? Does this go with "death-defying" (27) or is it different?]

Dear Judy: a tribute to a beloved friend

2011-11-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

Judy always loved a live Christmas tree.
And she loved sharing what she loved with the people she loved.

Dear Judy,

There are very few people who would open their homes to a young couple with their infant son, but you did that for us. Not that it was out of character, you'd welcomed a young lady with three children before, even built the little boy a room of his own. I cannot express to you how much your love and open hospitality --even to the point of sharing your kitchen with me--means. From you I have learned that my life is not my own, that God rewards those who share, that cleaning your dishes before you go to bed really is worth the effort, that a dog can be a welcome friend, that giving is a blast, that sour cream and/or cream cheese make the best meals, and that Judy's house is always home.

Micah with Judy's dog: Sophie.

There's a small rocking chair in the baby's nursery. I will always remember what you told me about how it was the one thing your parents gave you, how they worked hard and there weren't many vacations, but that you knew they loved you. It is a visual reminder to me about what really counts in a child's life, and that it's not all about what money can buy.

In loving memory

I cannot imagine the trial God is taking you through right now, and even though I have not communicated all that I wish I could have, I want you to know we've been praying for you, missing being with you, loving you. Being confident of your future hope, I am praying that God will give you the grace to keep on believing, to count even this as a joy if it means seeing your Savior soon, and that in the end there will be peace. You've worked so hard all your life. Rest is near. Give my little girl a hug and kiss for me. Talk to Jesus about us: pray that we'll be faithful here until He returns.

Sleep well. I will always think of you as a dear friend. Thank you for everything.

With love,

michelle

Judy went into the presence of her Savior this morning after a battle with breast cancer, a battle she'd actually won um-teen years ago. Ruth, a dear friend who stayed with Judy to the end, read my letter to her last night. Here is what she told me:

Michelle, I was able to read your email to Miss Judy last night before she passed. She was not able to communicate very well but she did squeeze my hand several times and I think I caught a very faint hint of a smile. I am so thankful that she is now free of pain.

My kids called her Aunt Judy. She was like family to us. Their prayer was that God would either do a miracle and heal her or that she would fall asleep and wake up in heaven.

Miss Judy entered the presence of her heavenly Father this morning at 4:03. She went peacefully in her sleep.

Please pray for those whom Judy touched--family members, neighbors, volleyball officials, shuffleboard friends, coworkers, as well as church family members. Many will be reflecting on Judy's life and testimony in the upcoming days and months. Pray that God will use the funeral as well as memories of her to draw souls to the same Savior she loved and lived for. For those who expect to see her again, pray that God will make our faith strong, our hope sure, and our lives a shining light like Judy's.

With love,
michelle

kind provision

2011-11-07T08:02:00.000-08:00

As I sorted through the produce on the "50 cents per pound" table at our local farmer's market, the Spirit reminded me of God's kindness. In the law, He ordained that farmers not harvest all the way up to the corners with His kind intention being that the poor could glean some good. Boaz's kindness to Ruth, instructing his harvesters to leave anything they dropped for her to pick up, came to mind as well. And I felt a connectivity to those in generations long past because of our Ever Present God. The fact is, God never changes. He is kind. He is gracious. He looks out for the poor and provides for those who honor Him. It was a moment, a whisper, but it spoke volumes of encouragement to my heart. Some would say we're poor. I don't think of it in those terms. My Father is rich, and He gives me everything I need. And I'm thankful when His Spirit witnesses to my spirit that I am His, and He is looking out for me.

Trusting you are seeing God's sweet acts of kindness in providing for your family as well. Grace to you, my friends, whatever your circumstance today. With love, michelle

Proverbs 3

2011-11-04T19:13:00.000-07:00

The metaphor in Proverbs 3 that has really caught my attention this week is verse 18:

"She [wisdom] is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed."

It's autumn in the Upstate, and the trees are absolutely beautiful! I could go off on that beauty actually being because of the loss of oxygen (or whatever), and that the reality is that the leaves are dying, preparing to fall to the ground and be crunched about upon, or bagged and composted, or left and buried beneath snow (if we're lucky). And you could say that's morbid. Maybe it is. But I could come back that without death, there's no life, which is a rich spiritual reality, and we could go on discussing deeper theology.

A similar discussion came up recently in my sister's 2nd Grade Sunday School Class. They got a little deeper into the chemistry of it all, as evidenced by her chalkboard drawing, copied here:

But I've chosen to go a slightly different route.

As I've thought about this verse, the "tree of life" actually brought to mind a tree in Narnia. Digory (who grows up to be the professor in The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe) brings back a piece of fruit from Narnia's "tree of life" to give to his mother (who is basically terminally ill) with hopes of her recovering.

His obedience and faith are both tested in the process of acquiring the fruit.

In the end, his mother is miraculously healed, he plants a seed from the fruit in the backyard, and eventually he turns the wood from the felled tree into a wardrobe (which four children years later discover the magic to).

First edition cover, 1955, Wikipedia image.

C.S. Lewis crafted a beautiful beginning to his Chronicles of Narnia in The Magician's Nephew. I've so enjoyed listening to it over the past few days (and, yes, this is where the photo spoof featuring Mark emerged from). It's been so much fun reflecting on the wonder of the creation of a new world. What a beautiful semi-allegory of the beginning of our world in the garden of God.

Wisdom, like the fruit from the tree in Narnia, takes faith and obedience to acquire; but in the end, she brings the best of all this world ... and eternity ... can offer.

In his commentary on Proverbs, Pete Steveson (whom my kids actually call Grampa Pete because his wife was my mentor-mom at our local church) points out how we first see the "tree of life" in Scripture in Genesis 2 and 3, then see it again in Proverbs (here in chapter 3 as well as chapter 11, 13, and 15), and then we see it once again in Revelation 2 and 22. Grampa Pete points out the symbolism for "eternal life" in the Genesis and Revelation references, and applies the same symbolism here.

Derek Kidner discusses the "tree" and the "fountain of life" together, and writes:

"This tree or fountain symbolizes the blessings of a right relationship with God.... The Old Testament affirms that what was lost with Paradise and waits to be regained can be enjoyed in some measure here and now when man walks with God."

Truth Talk Talking Points:

Start simple. Ask, "what is a tree?" and see what your kid can tell you. (I asked Micah that this afternoon, and he gave a pretty good definition about it being a large plant that may give us fruit or flowers or maybe just leaves and shade; and then happily listed a few specific varieties he knew the names for. He is no longer perplexed by my random questions.) You may be surprised what your kids' answers are and how much they like sharing what they know!

Then, if your kids are nuts about Narnia the way mine are, talk about the "tree of life/youth" in The Magician's Nephew. The Focus on the Family Radio Theatre production is fabulous!

Now read Proverbs 3:18 together:

"She [wisdom] is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed."

Remind them of vocabulary: "blessed" basically means "completely happy!" To "lay hold of" or "hold fast" basically means "to grasp and not let go of": they've probably heard the expression (or used it at school): "Oh, I get it!" or "I've got it." It's that sort of idea. You're not grasping onto wisdom like holding onto a tree branch trying not to fall, and yet in a way you are. Though remember that with wisdom, the key is not just knowing it in your head; it's applying it, living it out!

Now you're ready to talk about how we get wisdom: reading the Word, listening to our parents, teachers, pastors, etc.

Talk about the blessings that grow out of that: the "tree of life" that is your reward.

Craft Idea:

For a final craft, make a tree out of cut or torn construction paper. On each of the leaves or on pieces of paper fruit or flowers glued onto the tree, write blessings that are yours when you grasp hold of God's wisdom and don't let go of it. (I'd love to have you post a picture of your kid's tree.)

I hope this post has given you inspiration to go talk with your kids. Yes, rabbit trails are great. Just make sure you do come back to the Word, for that is where we get Wisdom. And with Wisdom, there is great reward. Hang on tight!

Now go have fun talking with your kids!

michelle

the magician's grand-nephew

2011-10-31T17:40:00.000-07:00

A tribute to my Narnia-loving children, Micah and Jordan, with happy cooperation from baby Mark.

Thank you, dear Creator, for the gift of children, the gift of imagination, and the gift of good literature.

Baby Digory, which ring will you choose?

Selection is made by putting the ring to one's mouth.

Oh, the adventures we shall share!

presentation points

2011-10-31T17:25:00.000-07:00

Carrot soup seasoned with cayenne and ginger, and presented with basil leaves and Greek yogurt applied by medicine syringe. Let the kids get creative with their presentation for dinner. This creative design was a combined effort by Micah and Jordan-Elliot. Serve with toasted baguettes. Bon appetit!

the month of October

2011-10-31T08:24:00.000-07:00

I have finally come to grips with the reality that as a woman, I cannot actually multi-task very well. I'm a little too OCD for that. This past month, working on my query letter and continuing revisions for my middle grade novel took a pause, as did blogging. My sincerest apologies. A post on Proverbs 3 is in the works.

But, as a voice speaking wisdom has been quoted to say, "The starts and stops are both ordered by the Lord." Pauses give time for the mind to mull things over and spice things up ... even subconciously perhaps ... so that hopefully the finished product is like a fine apple cider with peach flavoring and mulling spices. Which brings me to the source of my God-ordained pause.

This past month, as an answer to prayer and a divinely-ordained, fun way to provide for our boys' Christian education, I was able to write product descriptions for Live Oak Farms in Woodruff, SC. Taste testing is always the best way to describe, and, yes, that got to be part of the job. But I also enjoyed researching online to discover the unique qualities from the various producers.

Some of my favorites? Numi Tea, McCutcheon's Juice Sweetened Pumpkin Butter and Peach Cider, Uncle Scott's Rootbeer, and Live Oak Farms' Black Olive Marinara Sauce, Cheeses, and Goats' Milk Fudge.

Check it out. Shop online, or go take a horse-drawn tour. Let me know your favorite products. Or, just let me know how October went for you. What God-ordained pauses did you enjoy or see benefit from?

book review: the watermark, travis thrasher

2011-09-26T06:12:00.000-07:00

"It's one of those subtle marks on stationery that you can't see unless you hold it up to the light. For some reason, I think of that word when I think of you. For so long, you've been running from the light, Sheridan. But now your life has been held up to the light. And the mark that's always been there is now obvious to all who know you.

"No matter what you've done, what mistakes you've made, what you can't go back and change, you still belong to Jesus.... He's marked you for life."

THE WATERMARK is a beautiful story of second chances set in suburban Chicago. Perhaps that's just one reason why it hit such a chord in my heart. Those of you who know me well will remember we spent one year in the windy city, working in a Christian school and helping with the church's youth group. We don't talk about it much. It's not that we didn't love the ministry. And even though the year was marked with heartaches for the church and school, I think it's mostly that we left when we did. The story of John Mark, the one who separated from Paul but was later counted useful to him again, is just one of the biblical examples that's been an encouragement as we seek to serve our Lord faithfully again. See, God's story offers not just second chances, but chance after chance after chance. And it's not a night & day, wrong turns right in a flash (except in the reality of God declaring us righteous at salvation). So often we wander, even after salvation. I think of a dear friend who at one time was so thrilled to have been saved and then later became convinced that he was a homosexual and couldn't understand why God had made him that way. Some would say he was never saved. Really? I tend to believe he's so far from the light, the watermark's not visible. The best thing we can do is love him and invite him back into the light. But this is supposed to be a book review, so I'll get on with the book.

I literally started THE WATERMARK after supper and finished it before midnight. The basic idea of this novella by Travis Thrasher is that God's mark on a believer may not be obvious when that person has turned from God and gotten himself entangled in the darkness of sin, but as that person is again exposed to the light, the watermark of salvation is obvious.

Told in the first person POV of Sheridan, Thrasher does a phenomenal job of maintaining that POV through three major story parts: "an undeniable past," "an uncertain present," and "an unexpected future." Sheridan's is a voice easy to listen to, convincing and honest.

When Sheridan decides to go back to Covenant College after a seven-year cessation, he's not deciding to turn his life back over to God, just hoping to finish something he started a long time ago. There's been so much pain and guilt in the mean time, and there's still not a whole lot of hopefulness.

But through a newly developing friendship with a girl aptly named Genevie, Sheridan begins to rediscover his relationship with God.

"Show, don't tell," is one of those writing rules that you hear repeatedly, and it's one that Thrasher demonstrates with this novel, often even when you wish he'd just tell you what or why. But because he withholds the information so well, I'm not going to mess up his story and tell you now. You're going to have to read his book. Don't worry, you'll be glad you did.

The cover identifies THE WATERMARK as "a tender story of forgiveness and hope." And even though (for whatever reason) the dust jacket is lavender, it's not just for girls.

I definitely see potential for THE WATERMARK to be used in outreach ministries and with those who either grew up in a Christian home or went to a Christian college but have turned away from the God they once loved. The gospel is clear yet gentle, cushioned in a well-crafted story with believable characters and on-going struggles.

There are a few things that date the book, such as references to cassette tapes, yet those are so easily overlooked and the story itself is timeless. This is how God works: then, now, past, present, and future.

I picked my copy up from our public library, so it's available. But I'm guessing I'll be buying more than one copy to loan or give out. And I'll conclude by quoting Francine Rivers, "I loved THE WATERMARK. It is a moving story about redemption and love that delivers a punch to the heart at the end."

Proverbs 2

2011-09-16T18:51:00.000-07:00

When I read it silently, I still hear this 2nd chapter of Proverbs in an Australian accent. On that Aussie mission team I mentioned in my last post, we got to spend a couple of weeks at a Christian camp counseling young people. The memory passage for the week was this one: Proverbs 2. And I still remember sitting on a rock wall, listening to that better-than-Brit accent say "ev-ry good pauth" (verse 9). It messes it up when I try to say it out loud. Like with the store keeper who told my American friend attempting the Aussie accent, "Keep practicin', mate," mine is obviously not authentic. They say we are too particular with our pronounciations. Ah well. They also say "snickerdoodles" are what doggies leave in the yard, rather than a "cinnamon sugar 'biscuit'" (cookie). But that's not really what this post is even about.

Proverbs Time with your kids. Chapter 2.

Who doesn't love a treasure hunt? I'll never forget this past Mother's Day when my seven year old made up a series of clues I had to figure out to find my little potted morning glory. It was precious.

The word "treasure" (verse 1) and the simile "seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures" (verse 4) are priceless pictures.

God has wisdom just "stored up" (verse 7), and He's promised to protect us on our quest ("He is a shield ... guarding ... watching over," verses 7 & 8).

So, we're goin' on a treasure hunt. We get to search for "hidden" treasures.

Allen Arnold hit it on the head in his recent article on Leadership: "I lead others best when I follow Jesus first." As moms or aunts or classroom teachers or girl scout troop leaders or ... whatever role(s) God's given us, if we want our kids to seek for the wisdom treasures God has stored up for them, we first must seek for the treasures He has stored up for us.

Is there anything sweeter than a child pulling open his Bible before he can even truly read simply because he's following mommy or daddy's example? Have my kids seen me on my treasure hunt, digging for wisdom, devoting myself to the fear of the Lord, raising my voice ... not at them, but ... to the Lord begging for understanding?

And then, do I take that next step and teach them how to dig into the Word? These Proverb talks are a great place to start.

Extra: Pirate Treasure Hunt Tips and (my favorite part) a photo of pirate face cupcakes! Great for SS party or birthday treat for that special kiddo.

2 free cookbooks by Aussie Jules Clancy

2011-09-05T09:54:00.000-07:00

One of the best things I did during my college years was take a mission trip to Australia. It broadened my worldview in so many ways. Ten years later, I'm so thankful for all the lessons God taught me in Australia and still say things like "No worries."

Mel just introduced me to a fabulous Aussie food blog that I had to share with you. A true Aussie, Jules Clancy keeps things simple yet delightful! She's committed to 5 ingredients or fewer. "Good on ya, mate!"

Jules's blog: Stone Soup, reminiscent of the classic children's fable.
Personally, I can't wait to try the banana tart tatin in her 2nd free e-cookbook--the one full of desserts.

Just remember she's Aussie, so biscuit=cookie, etc.

"G'day!"

michelle

love on purpose

2011-09-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

^{Luke 11:11}What father among you, if his son asks for^[^d^] a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; ¹²or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? ¹³If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

Raising kids is not a hobby, as much as some in our American culture would like to view it that way. It's 24/7 investment. Like starting a business, it takes a lot of work if you're gonna get it off the ground and headed in a profitable direction. It's best when there's a partnership--two parents teaming together for the same goal. But even when that's not a possibility, remember you're in this with God.

He encourages us to not be weary in doing well, but to take opportunities to show love to others, especially those of the household of faith (Galatians 6). If the household of faith, how much more so, our own individual believing household?

Titus goes so far as to tell us that one way to make God's Word appetizing to others--to prevent His Word from being reviled or blasphemed, a bad taste in someone's mouth--is for believers to live certain ways. Whereas Luke address fathers, Titus addresses young mothers, telling us to love our husbands and their children.

Recently, I've seen what intentional love does for a kid and so encouraged that I'm not going to give this one up. It takes forethought and creativity, but it is so worth it. Specifically for your children, how can you show them love?

Put a snack on their seat in the car for when they first get in from school.
Swing through Chik-fil-A for a kid's Icedream cone.
Plan an excursion after-school: to the park or a pet store or a friend's garden or the farmer's market where they get pick out a favorite fruit
Stop by the library for kids' events, Snakes Alive shown to the right: not so recent, but I love this pix! Upcoming events here in Greenville.
Go home and make Jell-O together, the quick set kind so you can have it for supper that night!
Read them a book--one on one!
Tell them, "I love you!" just because and give them a hug....

What other ideas can you think of that are intentional, non-expense acts of kindness for your children? Add a comment.

In the mean time, enjoy your kids. Show them you love them ... on purpose!

=)

michelle

Proverbs 1

2011-08-31T07:48:00.000-07:00

As promised. I figured I may as well start at the beginning. And my focus will be on the metaphors and similes found in the book of Proverbs. In all of writing, my favorite literary devise is an apt simile (using "like" or "as" to describe something, usually something quite different from the original idea but with at least one specific picture that makes your original idea more memorable).

Here's the first one from Proverbs 1:
⁸ Hear, my son, your father’s instruction,
and forsake not your mother’s teaching,
⁹for they are a graceful garland for your head
and pendants for your neck (ESV).

Specific Words.
It's important our kids understand "hear" as used here. =) Rather than telling them, ask them what they think this specific word means. If they're not getting it, try giving them multiple choice options. (And just a note on multiple choice, some kids will always want to pick the last thing you said, so change up which option is your "correct choice.")

"Hear"--is it:

saying "uh-huh" or "yes, ma'am/sir" whenever mommy or daddy says something?
stopping what you're doing and thinking about what they're saying?
obeying based on what mommy or daddy says?

Notice, the "forsake not." Forsaking or neglecting has the idea of leaving something alone, or not doing something you're supposed to do. I explained it to Jordan (5) this way: if I were to leave Mark (3 months) in his crib and go to the grocery store without him, I would be neglecting him, or forsaking him. It's not what I'm supposed to do; I wouldn't be taking care of my responsibility. Jordan right away knew that was an AWFUL idea. He is very protective of his baby bro. In the same way, though, if you leave off cleaning up your toys or making your bed and go play instead, you're neglecting doing what you're supposed to do. That made sense to him. When parents give instruction, it's not just to hear themselves talk; it's with the desire that their children would obey what they're telling them, learn from what they have to say.

If your kids are a little older and can understand "parallel construction"--two things lined up that have the same direction/meaning--you can point out how "hear" and "forsake not" are set up as "parallels"--both have the thrust of doing/obeying the instruction/teaching (another set of parallels). If you journal as you go, it may be fun to draw parallel lines and group the concepts together above and below each other.

Then there's the metaphor (where one thing stands in the place of another, like a simile but without the "like" or "as" and so a little stronger):

"they are a graceful garland for your head
and pendants for your neck"

Get the picture. Think Olympic athletes. Back in the day, a garland was placed on the winner's head; we still place a pendant or medal around the neck of the winner. My kids immediately connected this to the DVD of Eric Liddell, the Olympian who wouldn't run on Sundays and later became a missionary. So the idea of the garland and pendant is, basically, that of being a winner!

Then find the comparison. What is the graceful garland and pendant compared to? The instruction/teaching of a parent, and specifically the hearing/obeying/not forsaking of that godly instruction.

So the lesson's simple: obey, and you're a winner!
And now they have a great word picture to go with it.

EXTRA:

Craft for kids: Make a pendant and write "OBEY" on the "medal" and a leafy wreath.
Write the verse and draw a picture of an Olympic athlete.
Think about using some of the words from your Proverbs Time for spelling: hear, forsake, winner. Or harder: Olympian, graceful, pendant, obedience.
Other fun Olympics links here.

Enjoy the time you get with your kids talking about the Word. And then watch for opportunities to apply it. I typed half of this on Monday afternoon, and--no joke--Monday night, we had a reason to talk about
"not forsaking your mother's teaching." And I was thankful I'd thought about it during the day, because God's Word is a far better counselor than I am.

Blessings,

michelle

I'd love to hear from you. Please post how your kids responded to this Truth Talk/Proverbs Time or which lesson idea was your favorite part (most helpful or most fun). Looking forward....

when hail hits the peaches

2011-08-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

My heart truly does go out to the peach farmers whose groves were damaged by hail. At the same time, I'm thankful for their resourcefulness in still selling these hail-spotted peaches at their local farmers' markets for reduced prices. Last Friday, I hand-picked some of the lesser damaged peaches from a basket at our market on Rutherford Road and paid just forty cents per pound. (Praise the Lord!)

Alan's work schedule has changed (once again) as the seminary semester starts up this week (only two classes left before the dissertation!). And so, for this one morning before classes start, he was able to take the boys to school for me and come home for a date breakfast.

The menu was fairly simple: eggs, sausage (for my protein man) seasoned with this amazing "sweet and spicy rub" that my sister introduced me to, and homemade lattes (because we like a little coffee and a latte milk/almondmilk, and because it just sounds fancier).

But then I wanted to round out the meal with some fruit.

The peaches I picked up on Friday were just ripe! And I had the following on hand, which combined made for the perfect finale to our breakfast date:

Plain Greek Yogurt (I prefer Cabot's)
Sliced Peaches (hail-damaged or not, as long as they're fresh!)
Pickled Ginger (like you'd usually serve atop your favorite sushi)
Ground Nutmeg

Delicious!!! You've got to try this!!

"We should do date breakfasts more often," Alan smiled.
Yes, we should!

book review: babu's song

2011-07-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

The church I attended during college had a monthly Ladies' Missionary Prayer Group at which there was a key note speaker followed by breakout prayer groups and fellowship. I thoroughly enjoyed this one special night a month, getting away from university studies.

One of the treasures I always took away was a book checked out from their collected library of missions related biographies--like My Heart in His Hands about Ann Judson--great for Sunday afternoon reading. But I also loved checking out their collection of children's books, mostly with a missionary emphasis, but also some non-religious titles like Jambo Means Hello with a country-culture-language emphasis.

I don't remember seeing this title (Babu's Song) there, but was delighted to find it at our local library, and would love to add it to my own children's lit library soon (as I've done with Jambo Means Hello). And I think it would be a fabulous addition to any church's missionary library for children.

Babu's Song has so many jumping off points to discuss making wise decisions, loving others sacrificially, working hard, living without a lot of things, being creative and content, etc. It's actually in several curricula for second graders and thus has book link vocabulary, spelling and writing activities available online, like this one created by Sandy Fiorni.

Babu's Song connected with my boys because of its protaganist's love for soccer, his relationship with his grandpa, and because eventually we'd love to live in Africa (if the Lord wills, obviously).

For now, I hope you enjoy this thoughtful read (along with the delightful watercolor illustrations) as much as we did.

mustache mayhem: because sometimes the best thing to do is just be silly and enjoy each other

2011-07-16T07:49:00.000-07:00

My 3 Silly Sons
Thank you for making me smile!

Sheriff Micah

The Outlaw J E (Jordan Elliot)

Mustache for Mark

Little Ol' Man

proverbs time

2011-07-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

I have been spending a lot of time in Proverbs since Mark was born, primarily because even if I can only squeeze a few minutes here and there I still get pithy and applicable truths to meditate on.

The breakthrough recently has been then turning around and having pithy applicational truth talks with my older boys. We call it "Proverbs Time." And I'm finding that, especially if we have these talks regularly during non-confrontational times, when confrontations arise (and it's not like they won't between a five and seven year old, so when they do), we can point back to a proverb we've recently discussed, and they have the pivotal truth they need to turn (repent) from foolishness and/or evil to wisdom and righteousness.

Honestly, it's helpful for me too, because it means I'm thinking and applying the Scripture more frequently too and I'm using Scripture in my child training. I love God's Word: it is so powerful and promotes peace in our lives. Thank You, God.

It is my hope to blog on specific proverbs that we discuss as a hopeful tool for you as you work with children God has placed in your sphere of influence.

Looking forward,
michelle

recipe: rosemary pork and spiced apples

2011-07-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

Gold Star Pork Stew Meat was 1.99/lb last week at BiLo. Yeah! And I had this distinctly accented voice in my head saying, "pork chops and applesauce," that others of you could peg, but all I remember is the phrase. My stomach says, "I want something pork with apples, but with a fresh spin." So I search "pork + apple + recipe" and get way too many ideas, scrap most of them, but toss a few in the back of my brain and start cooking.

Stock Pot, Medium High.

Start with 1/4 cup butter.

Add 6 apples, sliced and cored, but not peeled.

Spice it up with 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ginger, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg, or try pumpkin pie spice, more or less to your liking.

Stir, nicely coating apples in the spice mixture, then ...

Add 2 cups water and bring to a boil. Cook w/o lid just until tender (about 5 minutes).

spiced apples.

Set aside liquid (drained off apples) and spiced apples separately. You'll add them both back at specified points in the process.

Now you're ready to brown the meat in a generous amount of olive oil in the spiced pan.
I had 1.83 pounds of meat, but anywhere from 1 1/2 pounds to 2 pounds would work for these amounts.
Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (opt.) and 1/2 tsp rosemary. Brown.

Once meat is browned, kick it with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar.

It's gonna bubble up. Just let it work it's magic for about 5 minutes. This will both tenderize your meat and give it a tangy German flair.

pork with apple cider magic.

After about 5 minutes, go ahead and drain off the vinegar.

Add spiced liquid from apples back into the pork. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Let cook thoroughly. Just before serving, return apples to pot to ensure warmth and stir in 1/3 cup brown sugar (opt.).

Serve with tangy green beans (or steam-in-a-bag peas for ease) and brown rice. Enjoy!!!

bon appetit.

unique souls

2011-06-13T08:05:00.000-07:00

"Aw, he looks just like his brothers!" That's probably the most frequent comment I've heard regarding Mark's appearance this past month, the first month of his life. I don't even think Micah and Jordan-Elliot look alike...

...except when they're sleeping. And it finally hit me: when their eyes are shut, they do all look very much alike. But when their eyes are open, they are their own unique individuals.

The eyes, they say, are the windows to the soul. And the truth is each of my boys is a unique soul, a one-of-a-kind creation with a one-of-a-kind purpose to fulfill in this world. When their eyes are shut, all you can see if the physical, which is most likely what others are noticing: the physical similarities. But when their eyes are open, their spirit shines through, and as their Mom, I see their uniqueness far more than their similarity.

It shouldn't surprise me. "I am fearfully and wonderfully made." In studying that verse this past year for a seminar, I came across these interesting facts about the specific words in their original Hebrew language that we translate fearfully and wonderfully. "Fearfully" is a word that is used only of a work of God, a divine creation. And "wonderfully" literally means "unique or one-of-a-kind."

And with these concepts in mind, it is only appropriate that the determined response to knowing this is: "I will praise You!"

I look at Mark and marvel. And the responsibility of being entrusted to nurture another soul humbles me and urges me back to the Creator of souls Who also longs to be each soul's Redeemer.

"May the Lord Find Us Faithful!"
michelle

"just the beginning"

2011-03-30T18:43:00.000-07:00

Thirty-three weeks and Braxton Hicks have become a daily occurrence. Named for their identifying doctor, Dr. John Braxton Hicks of England, Braxton Hicks are simply "practice contractions." There's still so much more to take place before this pregnancy is complete: like further brain development, lung development and a couple more pounds of happy baby chub. But we're getting close....

Alan and I are reserving the right to change our minds at least until we see his face, but our thought is to name our new little man "Mark," so I've been reading through the Gospel of Mark in preparation: actually, I just finished reading through it last evening.

Largely because of my current status ("great with child," a.k.a., "very pregnant") and because of the significant international tragedies in our recent current events (Egypt, Japan and other islands, e.g.), the following passage in Mark 13 jumped out at me.

³And as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, ⁴"Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?" ⁵And Jesus began to say to them, "See that no one leads you astray. ⁶ Many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he!' and they will lead many astray. ⁷And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. ⁸For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains.
⁹ "But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. ¹⁰And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. ¹¹And when they bring you to trial and deliver you over, do not be anxious beforehand what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. ¹² And brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death. ¹³ And you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

"The end [of this world and life as we know it] is not yet.... But be on your guard." The Braxton Hicks, so to speak, are here spiritually. It's time to start practicing for the real thing. More difficult and significantly more painful things will undoubtedly (must) take place before our Lord's return, but we are now experiencing "the beginning of the birth pains."

I personally am enduring physically to the end of this school year (for me) as well as this pregnancy: only 5 1/2 weeks until induction day (yeah!), if little "Mark" doesn't decide to come before then. But the end is in sight. His bag is packed, and mine will be shortly. The car seat's already buckled in place, and arrangements have been made for big brothers Micah and Jordan-Elliot.

Spiritually, we all must be on our guard, knowing that the end is near, confident that "the one who endures to the end will be saved!"

There is much more still to come, yet we are so close. All of the events that must take place before the end could take place in a very short amount of time.

And just as there will be great rejoicing (by the grace of God) when I see my new baby's pink little face and hear his first cry, and even more so, there will be manifold rejoicing when we hear that trumpet sound and see our blessed Savior face to face.

Looking forward,
michelle

country sausage patties with apples

2011-02-05T14:39:00.000-08:00

Every meal ought to be a celebration of God, the food He provides and the ones we love seated around our table. Tonight's meal was definitely worth celebrating, thanks to my thoughtful mother-in-law and her delightful Fresh Market gift card for Christmas.

The boys and I enjoyed picking out some special meats and other fresh items on our shopping splurge today: a grand adventure compared to our usual Aldi routine.

Featured Fresh Market Purchase:

1.58 pounds country style sausage

What I did with it:

2 Gala apples, cored, sliced & diced

1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground pepper

1/4 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp cilantro

1/8 tsp rubbed sage

1/2 tsp allspice

1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
2 eggs

Mix with fingers! (Yes!)

Make into 12-13 "1/4 cup" patties.

Here's what mine looked like:

Bake at 450 degrees, about 12 minutes, flip 5 more minutes:
should be bronzed on the outside, no longer pink on the inside.
Plate it up with eggs & biscuits and fresh fruit.

Our fruit selection: Fresh Market oranges--Today's special: 98c/lb.
Everyone enjoyed! And there's plenty for breakfast tomorrow--what a great way to start the Lord's Day!

a prayer for egypt

2011-02-03T16:14:00.000-08:00

We sat in Pizza Hut, awestruck at the violence in Egypt displayed on the overhead television screen, and just as quickly urged our children to shield their eyes as blood ran down dirt-darkened faces, but they'd already seen.

That night, after the questions had been asked and the children tucked safely in their beds, my eyes fell to Psalm 7:9 (NIV):

"Bring to an end the violence of the wicked
and make the righteous secure—
You, the righteous God
Who probes minds and hearts."

The next day (yesterday) I got news from a pastor-missionary who teaches in Egypt. He shared the disillusionment of a democracy in the current cultural reality, as well as the vulnerability of families lacking the protection of any police intervention, men taking measures to protect their wives and children, families who have barricaded themselves into their apartment buildings but are now running out of basic necessities such as food and water....

My mind goes back to the woman and her two children whose only resource was a jar of oil. Her God is our God. He can still multiple meager resources to meet desperate needs. He can, and I have to believe He will. We have but to ask, to ask in faith, believing....

And today, my heart repeats:

"Bring to an end the violence of the wicked
and make the righteous secure—
you, the righteous God
Who probes minds and hearts."

"O righteous God
Who searches minds and hearts,
Bring to an end the violence of the wicked
and make the righteous secure."

Amen.

To listen to a beautifully-read audio file of this verse in its context, click here: Psalm 7.

Keep praying.

michelle

that the word of God not be blasphemed

2011-02-01T12:58:00.000-08:00

We tend to remember best the things we know apply to us.

Recently two friends read the same document regarding health insurance policy changes. One remembered the portions addressing the extended ages of adult dependents as her children are in college; the other, a young mother, had her attention focused on the portion regarding electing PCPs for pediatric care.

Bible passages directly addressing women rightly stand out. Recently while studying the book of Titus along with a group of others at church, a specific phrase in chapter 2, caught my attention. It's highlighted below:

3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed. (Titus 2, NKJV)

Blasphemed. Even the word itself leaves a foul flavor on my lips. It's one of those words thick with connotative repulsiveness: I've only ever heard it spat out like mashed up green bean baby food. I wasn't sure how much I was reading in vs. the word's actual denotative meaning.

Merriam-Webster to the rescue. (I love free online dictionaries!) BLASPHEMY:
1 a : the act of insulting or showing contempt or lack of reverence for God
1 b : the act of claiming the attributes of deity
2: irreverence toward something considered sacred or inviolable

Multiple translations of the Bible assist in giving us a round understanding of words as well, showcasing synonyms as each translator determines to use the word most likely to give the full gamet of meaning from the original language to the modern language.

So here, in this passage specifically addressing women, we are given a charge to live in such a way that God's Word not be maligned, insulted, reviled, dishonored, shamed in any way.

The way I live my life should, instead, magnify the Word of God and the God of the Word. The way I live as a believing woman should exalt, speak highly of, commend and leave others in awe of the Word. It should draw to seek out the meaning of the Word, to desire to know God.

Titus 2 directly affects my day-to-day decision making: what I spend my time doing, how I speak, how I spend time with my own children, how I dress and carry myself, how much I work outside the home, how I keep my home, how I show love to and respond to my husband.

May we each live as women devoted to God's way, that the word of God not be blasphemed.

How has Titus 2:3-5 influenced your life decisions? Post your comments below.
Read here how one expectant mom's life is impacting those observing and treating her in her battle with cancer.

"for such a time as this"

2010-08-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

Esther is a fascinating account of faith. I had someone say to me recently regarding my being in a particular situation, "for such a time as this"--that climactic quotation from the book of Esther--an understood meaning conveyed that this may very well be God's plan at this particular time to bring about His divine purposes.

I've thought through the story plot, reading the book again this month, specifically asking myself, "What does a modern-day Esther look like? How might her example of faith apply to me?" And here are my musings:

Being a modern-day Esther may mean...

Submitting to your authority, doing what you don't want to do, with a heart full of hope, even while it's aching.
Withholding your full identity or specific request until rapport is established in a relationship. (In a witnessing situation, it may mean not giving the gospel upon first meeting--not every time, but sometimes. In a workplace scenario, it may mean holding your peace until the right time. It's not easy, but sometimes it's what's necessary to accomplish the goal.)
Fasting and praying, and asking other believers to join you in your beseeching of God for His power and mercy, believing God for a miraculous answer.
Making a bold presentation, doing the unexpected, breaking the culture's normal formalities--by faith.
Getting to be a part of something way bigger than yourself that God is going to do on behalf of those who believe in Him.
Seeing God change the heart of a man in charge, a man of honor.

Pray for me as I pray for you. God will accomplish that which concerns us. Let's walk by faith, my friends, no matter what.

With hope,

michelle

select stories

2010-08-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

I love when conversation lends itself to story telling. Alan & I were recently in a restaurant and were having so much fun listening in on the stories the guy behind us was stringing together for the benefit and enjoyment of the others in his party. They were having a great time, and so were we.

I got thinking then about how so much of our conversations is just that, relating of stories--descriptions of events, recounting of interactions, and so forth.

As I spent time visiting family members this past week, I was thinking about this concept, this post, and how true it is that the stories we share reveal something about who we are, what's important to us, or what we feel the listener needs to know about something--even if we don't come out and say the "lesson" we hope they'll gain from the sharing of the story.

Dialoguing with an editor-friend recently, I realize sometimes my bent is toward direct instruction, the teacherliness coming out too obviously, rather than just letting the story stand and allowing the reader to pick up on those lessons gradually.

And in the meantime I believe I was influenced by a book (though I cannot even remember which one it was at the moment) that was discussing the largely narrative nature of the Old Testament.

In reading through Genesis these past couple of weeks, I have felt a growing understanding of who God is as He has selected out and related specific stories for the benefit of those who would read His Book (you and me). I love that! And I love Him more because of that.

Along the way I was also struck with how much we miss when we're distracted from or avoid times together that feel like just a bunch of people sitting around sharing stories. To listen to my uncle, or my gramma, my dad, my mom, my brother or a friend--these are all opportunities to learn--about who they are, how they think and feel and why, what's important to them, the wisdom they've gained through their unique experiences and perspectives--wisdom that truly could protect me and help me to understand this world and where I fit in it. Definitely not a waste of time.

Two flares--warnings that shoot up regarding relationship pitfalls:
1. Take the time to listen.
Do we take the time to listen that we so desperately need or do we avoid these opportunities, replacing them with vain amusements? Do we listen to the truths
that those before us know we need? Do we allow them to pass on the wisdom they have learned?

Do we listen without interrupting? Do we let the person say it or do we try to insert what we think they want to say at certain points along the way or to argue a point that hasn't been made? This is one I have to be careful of too, to keep my mouth shut, allowing the long pauses for thought so the person can put his or her ideas together without my pre-editing them. We show respect and love for the other person as we listen to what they have to say.
And beyond human relationships, do we take the time to listen to the God, the One Who has recorded his heart in an eternal Book? Do we see His purposes in telling us each of His specific stories, whether directly stated or not? (And some are harder to figure out than others--why did God include ....) Do we learn from the Book and adjust our livestyles to match up to His purposes?

And let me include, too, an emphasis I've picked up from listening to my dad--we have the Holy Spirit. Understanding the Scriptures is not "on my own" learning. We have a Teacher that illuminates the lessons to our hearts, that strengthens our relationship with the Author, that allows us to grasp the intended meaning the closer we grow in relationship to Him.
A second warning would be:
2. Do not jump to conclusions and responses of anger.
And again, yes, I'm speaking from experience, but it is so easy when we do not understand a premise or the setting/context of a story or the person's viewpoint who's telling it, to jump into the muddy puddle "anger" and ruin everything. Suspend judgment ("longsuffering"), assume the best ("love"), ask questions, and graciously try to understand what the person was saying. We're all always still trying to get to know the other person, even if we've grown up with that person or are married to that person. Dear friend, we must be patient and forgive when others have jumped and ask forgiveness when we have. Restoration is absolutely vital for growing relationships.

I've seen this be true for people regarding God as well. They misunderstand
what He has said or they do not know Him well enough yet, and they assume He
meant ..., and they respond in anger and jump ship. Theirs is a sad conclusion
for they have left off listening to the One Who would have saved them, Who loves
them eternally.

James 1:19-25 (NIV here) seems apt, this time rather than a story, a letter clearly stated. I think you'll see the two warnings here as well:

"My dear brothers [and sisters], take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what is says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it--he will be blessed in what he does" (emphases mine).

Blessings,
michelle

fear chokes out faith, but ...

2010-07-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

"Trust me & obey what I tell you, and you'll do fine." The words I spoke to my son in the swimming pool echoed in my heart the words of Jesus to his disciples, to me. When my son would not do what I told him to or would not trust me, he was soon overcome with fears and very soon literally choking, making no progress in his swimming.

But when he by faith did what I said, he began very quickly to progress. By the end of the afternoon, both boys were swimming without floaties (in the shallow end).

The Lord reminded me in this process, in keeping with the truths in yesterday's post, that His Word tells us not that faith leads to victory but that "faith is the victory" (emphasis mine).

Enlarge my faith, Lord. Strengthen my walk of faith, regardless of what I see. Help me to trust & to obey. Just like the song says, "there is no other way to be happy in Jesus but to trust & obey."

I hope that short anecdote will be an encouragement to you as it has been for me today.

Blessings, my dear friends, as you walk by faith as well,
michelle

scattered by design

2010-07-22T09:28:00.000-07:00

"We have work to do and the persecution actually helps us get the work done.... The very people trying to squelch the gospel actually helped to disseminate it." --Pastor J. Drew Conley, HPBC, 7.18.2010 pm service.

Perhaps the government who denies the missionary's visa renewal feels triumphant in dissuading his land from the truth of the gospel. But what if God in His great wisdom is strengthening the hearts of those people who will be purified by having to struggle to know Him better without the aid of the missionary they've come to lean on. What if they are ready and will grow faster now that the gospel has been given? And what if God has another field ripe and ready for that missionary to go to, a place he would not have gone had his visa been easily renewed? God's hand rules the hearts of even the most devious diplomacies. He controls it like the flow of water down a riverbed. And rather than grieving beyond measure over the loss of the land we have come to love, perhaps it is time to demonstrate that you too live by faith as the people you must leave must as well. Communicate faith in the God Who knows and loves all involved and Whose glory demands the spread of the gospel.

Persecution in the early days scattered believers throughout the then known world, taking their gospel message and their purified faith with them.

And though persecution largely has evaded "American Christianity" for quite some time, it seems, we know biblically and historically the course of Christianity forges its way through difficulty. It should not surprise us when it comes. And it undoubtedly will.

Our outlook does not need to be one of fear and faithlessness for God is often bringing about beauty by way of fire. Think First Peter, of Daniel & his friends, of Romans 8, of Psalm 119, of Isaiah, of the ministry of our Christ, and of so many others in passage after passage and decade after decade.

"Faith," a man of God pointed out recently, "pleases God. Not just the result of faith, but the mere act or choice of to believe actually brings pleasure to God" (summarized, HPBC, 7.21.2010).

We may need to be ready to run for the hills (one among many reasons to stay in shape).
In fact, Matthew 10 says we should run from one city to the next ... for the purpose of spreading the gospel, to tell of our great God.

Not all of us will see the result of our faith. Some of us will be like that shriveled up grain of wheat or corn that falls into the ground and dies ... but then (after it's dead) bears much fruit. Think of John & Betty Stam in the Boxer Rebellion, of Jim Elliot & Nate Saint & the other 3 who gave their lives to the Aucas, of martyrs in every age, of Jesus Christ Himself.

Am I willing to give up my life? to bear up under persecution? to live by faith and not by sight? Really? Am I willing? And if so, am I ready to start now?

Just something to think about; no, not just to think about, to live by. It seems sometimes that persecution is the very fertilization that is required for the seeds of faith to grow. It is all part of His design. Some plant, some water, but God gives the increase. May His kingdom grow in our hearts and the hearts of our acquaintances today.

Be strong in the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ. Continue to the end ... no matter what. And may grace and peace (in our hearts, not necessarily our circumstances) be multiplied again and again.

"It will be worth it all." Amen.

michelle

book review: will medicine stop the pain?

2010-07-21T07:37:00.001-07:00

I have been so thrilled recently with what has been coming out from Moody Press. This time respected women's counselor Elyse Fitzpatrick has teamed up with Dr. Laura Hendrickson to speak a gracious voice of truth to women who struggle emotionally.

Opening with Laura's gripping personal testimony of her and her brother and the opposite conclusions that each of their diagnosis with bipolar pointed them to (her brother to suicide, herself to Christ), Laura and Elyse share a practically-balanced and personal yet completely biblical approach to dealing with anxiety, depression and other emotional problems.

This is not just a surface-level book. It digs deep and examines how our bodies and brains function, how our spirits (minds and hearts) cooperate with our bodies and brains, how each affects the other, and also how specific categories of medicines can affect both. They are very careful to point patients/counselees to their medical doctors and urge you not to just quit taking any medicine that you've been prescribed.

Meds are necessary at times, sometimes for extended periods of time. Other times, though, our problems are able to be addressed with Scripture and a true God-dependency. It is important that we consider all the factors when trying to figure out what the real problem is. The goal presented here is a good one: as little meds for as short an amount of time as possible (if possible) and as much time with God in true fellowship and trust in the reality that He is in control and working.

One of the most helpful portions for me was on the suffering of Christ and coming again to a biblical view of suffering. Suffering is not sin. Sometimes God gives us a cup to drink that is deep with pain. Think of our dear Lord Jesus in the Garden and on the Cross. We think pain is bad: get rid of it. But sometimes that pain/suffering is exactly what we need to help us learn the lessons God is wanting to teach us and to strengthen our trust in Him. Ultimately suffering/pain is for God's glory. And along the way we (by His grace) can come to realize that it is also intended for our good.

I am thankful for the specific Scripture treasures that are included in this book and for the Gospel-transformation that is time and again referenced as the starting point of hope.

I believe this book will be a helpful resource to all who will receive it. And I recommend this book with no reservation. (I only wish there were a companion book for guys, as this one is aimed at a female audience. See Don Johnson's review and a few reasons why he recommends guys go ahead and read this book.)

You may also find the Discerning Reader's review helpful. And the title of this post is linked to Elyse Fitzpatrick's website (9.99 purchase price).

I strongly encourage you to invest in this resource, whether you personally are struggling with physical pain or emotional struggles or if perhaps you have a friend who is. We are here to come alongside one another as we all grow in our relationship with God.

Grace and peace, my dear friends,

with love,

michelle

encouraged husbands

2010-07-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

All four broadcasts on "A Hurting Couple Finds Hope" now ready for download at http://www.reviveourhearts.com/radio/roh/today.php

Just a reminder. This series echoed so much of the transforming love that God has worked in my own marriage. Day 2 had 83 comments last I checked, telling me this is obviously striking a chord in women's hearts across our country. I pray that you will be encouraged by this series as well.

Alan actually listened along with me for a portion of these and laughed and "amened" along the way. I told him I wasn't sure I wanted to listen to this with him. But we laughed and listened on. And then I listened again later too. =)

Blessings, my dear friends,
michelle

biscuits -- no milk

2010-07-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

I wanted an easy-to-remember, milkless biscuit, and here's what came together:

1/2 cup oil
1 cup plain soy "milk"
2 eggs
4 cups flour (self-rising or add 2 Tbsp baking powder, 2 tsp salt)

(Notice each ingredient doubles (1/2, 1, 2, 4). I love memory clues.)

Mix with fork, then fingers.
On a floured surface, roll out dough into a thin rectangle, fold over into fours, roll a little more.

Press out circles, place touching sides, and put in 400 degree oven for 20 minutes. (Notice the numbers. Yeah! I love easy-to-remember.)

Serve with sausage gravy, or FROG jam,
tomatoes and bacon, or green eggs and ham.... =)

This one's for Micah, my no-milk kid. =)

Love you, buddy. --Mom (michelle)

p.s. FROG jam is Hillside Orchard's Fig-Raspberry-Orange-Ginger that I discovered at "The Tomatoe Vine" fresh food stand on Old Buncombe Road. Love it!!

helpful series on encouraging the faith of our husbands

2010-07-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

Click on the title to link to the Revive Our Hearts series that began yesterday, Monday, July 12. Listen or read the transcript, though I definitely recommend listening to Kim and LeRoy talk with NancyLeigh DeMoss and hearing their voices. Especially if your husband is ministry-minded, I believe this series will be an encouragement to you as you seek to be the vine in your home, supporting and strengthening your husband. Thank you, Nancy, for following the wisdom of our Lord in sharing Kim and LeRoy's story. Thank you, LeRoy and Kim, for sharing so honestly from your hearts how God has taught you and brought you to where you are today in your marriage. Grace and peace to all, with love, michelle

fresh "peaches and green" salsa

2010-07-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

6 peaches, pitted and chunked (4 cups)
1/4 red onion, diced (3/4 - 1 cup)
1/2 red grapefruit, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
2 large green tomatoes, chopped (about 2 cups)
1 pt fresh blueberries (2 cups)
1/4 cup cilantro (loosely chopped) (Since I picked this fresh from our garden, I just chopped up the flowers and everything; adds a pretty white)
1/2 tsp salt

Mix together with hands. Serve with tortilla chips or as a salad in its own rite.

Or try cooking down and serving over grilled fish, like a chutney.

by michelle l. grover

Bon Appetit.

the word that sustains

2010-07-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

"Sustain me according to Your Word, that I may live;

and do not let me be ashamed of my Hope."

Psalm 119:116 nasb

Recently in small group we've been reviewing the major themes of the individual books of the Bible and memorizing a verse from Psalm 119.

Alan (my husband) commented how a study of Psalm 119 earlier in his life was exactly what he had needed to spark that fire of love for the Word of God as a whole. It's true. The psalmist captures so many of the major themes of Scripture and does it with a humble, grateful voice of praise.

So far:

Genesis: Creation/Beginnings (the word "genesis" literally means "beginnings" and this book is full of "firsts"); Psalm 119:73 "Your hands have made me and fashioned me; Give me understanding that I may learn Your commandments."

Exodus: Moses/Out of Egypt (the prefix "ex" literally means "out of"); Psalm 119:54 "Your statutes are my songs In the house of my pilgrimage."

Leviticus: Holy Living (Levi was the tribe of priests, a holy class); Psalm 119:38 "Establish Your Word to Your servant, As that which produces reverence for You."

Numbers: Wilderness Wanderings (Are your feet "numb" in your sandals yet?; a long trip full of amazing evidences of God's faithfulness and humbling lessons); Psalm 119:105 "Your Word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path."

Deuteronomy: Time to Review (deut/duet: two, this is a 2nd giving of the Law; emphasis on God's love relationship with His people); Psalm 119:49 "Remember the Word to Your servant, In which You have made me hope."

Memorizing has been such a help and blessing. I'm actually putting the verses on the "notes" tab on my phone so I can review easily wherever I'm at. I'm so thankful for this study and for the enthusiasm my girls in small group are showing as they learn and treasure our great God and His precious Word that sustains.

Moses said in Deuteronomy 32, "Take to your heart all the words with which I am warning you today, which you shall command your sons to observe carefully, even all the words of this law. For it is not an idle word for you; indeed it is your life. And by this word you will prolong your days in the land, which you are about to cross the Jordan to possess" (nasb).

And in the NT, we learn that the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (John 1) in the person of Jesus Christ, who "is before all things, and in Him all things hold together" (Colossians 1:17); and perhaps even more clear, "He [Jesus] is the radiance of His [God's] glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power" (Hebrews 1:3).

And so I close as I began: "Sustain me according to Your Word, that I may live." Your Word is what holds me together and sustains my very being. You are my Hope for life and for eternity. "Do not let me be ashamed of my Hope." I love You, O Lord my Sustainer, O Word of power and truth and life. Be praised today and forever with the life You have given me. Amen.

michelle l. grover

as you're going ... make disciples

2010-06-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

Missionary Philip Hunt (Zambia) pointed out the great commission imperative from Matthew 28. Contrary to what we might assume from many of our English translations, the main command in the Greek is not "go" but rather "make disciples." The "go" is a given: it's assumed that we are all going various places. As we go, we're to be making disciples.

Matthew 28:18-21 (GOD’S WORD Translation) is helpful: 18 When Jesus came near, he spoke to them. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 So wherever you go, make disciples of all nations: Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach them to do everything I have commanded you. And remember that I am always with you until the end of time.”

This is the idea that the Lord keeps bringing back to me: evangelism and disciple making ought to be the regular way we live our lives.

An Analogy: Crash dieting and binge exercise has very little effectiveness and is actually unhealthy in the long run. Maintaining a healthful diet and exercising regularly--as a way of life--is what makes the difference.

Similarly, effective disciple making doesn't rely on special meetings and once-in-a-while-when-I-get-really-convicted evangelism. This kind of evangelism must be followed up on by building a discipleship relationship if lasting change is to take place. Otherwise we may actually not be helping anyone. We're not after mass professions, remember. Making disciples isn't just "gettin' people saved."

May I be so bold as to say it's also not inviting people to church? The church is the gathering of believers. Evangelism takes place "as we are going" out and about. It takes thought and intentional effort to make contacts and build those relationships. But as you make gospel-living your lifestyle, I'm convinced you won't have to go far--right across the street, over the counter, just one desk over ... all those places you find yourself regularly. It may also mean getting involved in a local group (moms, sports, etc) in order to shine your light (rather than hiding it under a bushel).

Once someone believes and is converted, they are a disciple, but that's just the beginning of making disciples. A disciple is a follower, not just in faith but in practice also. And discipleship continues, following through with obedience in baptism and with teaching obedience in every other area too (being sure we're practicing what we're teaching along the way).

That may take a life-time and it won't be just you and your disciple. You'll see God bringing multiple people into the life of the one that you're bringing along, just as you see Him bring multiple people into your own life to bring you along. That's life-long disciple making, the way Jesus set it up.

"Make disciples" is the command. The question is whether or not we will obey.

Just remember, obedience brings joy. There is no greater joy than to watch God transform lives from the inside out and to know He is getting the glory He so deserves.

Blessings,
michelle

book review: fiction/non-fiction re: women in the Bible

2010-06-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

I would like to highly recommend both of these books.

Non-fiction: Jerram Barrs, professor at the Francis Shaffer Institute, rises to the challenge in Through His Eyes: God's Perspective on Women in the Bible, re-examining multiple female characters in the Bible within their inspired contexts. He doesn't shy away from the tough topics--individuals like Tamar and Rahab, for example, and the prophecy that the young women would prophesy. Both intensely devotional and down-to-earth practical, Barrs' book challenged me to return to Scripture with a refreshed perspective on faith and the great mercy of our God. Probably my favorite book of the year, Through His Eyes is one I plan to reread again and again.

Fiction: Francine Rivers , accomplished author, evidences (once again) in-depth biblical research and a gifted imagination. First published as five novellas, A Lineage of Grace recounts a believable fleshing out of the stories of the five women whom God chose to specifically include in the genealogy of His Son Jesus, recorded in Matthew 1. Unveiled is intense and shows the daring faith of the woman Tamar; Unashamed reveals the dramatic redemption of the harlot Rahab; Unshaken shows the rewarding love of the faithful convert Ruth; Unspoken, the mercy of God in the life of David and Bathsheba; and Unafraid, the humbling humanity of the woman who would bear the Messiah, Mary. Francine masterfully weaves realistic human experience together with throughly biblical research. It may or may not have happened as she sees it--she would say the same--and there were times I thought, Hm, I've never thought that about that particular character, but her brave attempt allows us to realize the reality: these were real people, not mere storybook characters. Somehow fiction does that: it gives us a greater understanding of non-fiction, what's imagined reveals a deeper conceptualization of truth. I love that.

Thank you, Dr. Barrs. Thank you, Mrs. Rivers. The combination of your books read closely together intensified the truths of the greatest Book in my heart.

I am so thankful for God's great love for me as a woman, and I pray these books are an encouragement to you as well. Sincerely, michelle

will read for chik-fil-a and starbucks

2010-06-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

Summer reading at the Greenville public library has officially begun!

This year for the kiddos instead of logging a number of books read, it's logging time in half-hour increments. But audio books count too, which is an easy way to log time that's broken into segments since it's recorded on the back of the CD case. The highest prize is 25 hours of reading. Micah's already devouring books during quiet reading time while Jordan-Elliot naps. We've got War of the Worlds, Illustrated Children's Classic, on the list. And he's requested Redwall audios, by Brian Jacques. Prizes range from water park pass and Chik-fil-a ice dream cone to Chik-fil-a kid's meal and Greenville Drive game pass.

Separate reading program for teens, too.

And here's the one I really love: adults, read three books and turn the titles and authors in with your library card number, and get a free tall drink at Starbucks! And you can keep reading and get another tall, and another ... Yeah!!

Time to start reading! I'm nearing the end of book 3 for this summer personally and anticipating a tall cinnamon dolce ... yes, please, on the whipped cream. =)

Enjoy!
michelle

more than letters after your name

2010-05-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

As a SpEducator, my mind thinks in terms of Goals and Objectives. Reevals are a good thing, especially because they include multiple perspectives and adjustments toward realisitic expectations.

I'm thankful for the perspective voices the Lord has given me as I reevaluate my own goals and objectives. My husband is perhaps my chief sounding-board, and he's so patient to listen to my whims and wonder-ifs.... Extended family, especially my parents, are extremely helpful as well, especially given the amount of time they've known me. Even my kids' voices help me reevaluate what's important--the exuberant "Thank YOU, Mommy!" or the whiny "I'm not tired" both tell me their own truths.

Recently a still, small voice helped me reevaluate a reoccuring objective--one that I still have hopes for accomplishing, but not any time in the near future. If you're a believer, you know the Voice I'm talking about: that kind yet strong Voice of the Holy Spirit of God.

As background, let me just share that my husband is currently working on his PhD in NT Interpretation. It's been a lot of work and there's still a chunk to go, but I'm completely behind him in as his desire is to give national African men the seminary tools they need to understand the Word of God and to communicate those truths to their own communities.

It's tempting to call the degree, the goal; and at times it seems very much like the goal. But the truth is, it's only an objective on the way to the real goal.

Our real goal is to bring glory to God by worshipping Him wholeheartedly with gratitude and reverence and by by cultivating discipleship relationships with people in the specific cross-section of the world He's given to us.

So the objective that I'd like to see accomplished for me: a Master's degree in Special Education, more specifically in Reading and/or Written Expression Disabilities. And a doctorate isn't beyond what I could dream about. Yes, I'm an over-goaler. But I would love to pass on a love for SPED to the next generation of educators as well....

But at certain points along the way, I have to step back and do a reeval.
*Right now, I'm teaching SPED to help my husband accomplish his objective: it's part of what I believe is within the scope of the Proverbs 31 woman, allowing him to the man God intends him to be.
*I'm also a mom: Alan and I have two growing boys, still in early elementary school, who it is our privilege to love and disciple.
*And I'm a small-group discipleship teacher for the high school and college age young women in the InnerCity Ministry at our church.
*Not to mention writing...and reading....

It's not time to pursue a degree.... At some point, when Alan's completed his degree, perhaps the Lord will allow me to begin working on the Master's. But for now, Acts 4:13 has been a huge encouragement to me. (Title linked to Acts 3, 4 nasb via Bible gateway.)

Without any letters behind their names, with no formal education (4:13), the disciples of Jesus Peter and John spoke their message with unashamed clarity (Acts 3:11-4:3). Theirs was a noteably effective ministry (4:4, 21). They were not intimidated by others with more credentialed power who could have potentially silenced them, sending them to prison (4:5-12,15-18). Instead, they were set apart by God, filled with His Holy Spirit (4:8) and uniquely gifted (4:9-10; 3:1-10). They were devoted to Christ Jesus (4:11-12, 19-20), and it was obvious--largely because of the lack of letters after their names, so to speak--it was obvious that they had been with Jesus (4:13)!

If my goal is what I say it is, to glorify God, than if He realigns my objectives and even if He omits "graduate degree" from the list, that should be fine with me. He knows what He's shaping me into and what I need to have. If the best way I can worship Him and bring others along with me in praising Him is to forget the formal training, than so be it. He's given me wide-open ministry within my own family and neighborhood; He's broadened it to include discipleship relationships in our local church and in the Christian school where I teach.

The thing I need most right now is not more formal training. It's exactly what was so apparent of Peter and John: time spent with Jesus.

And that's a relationship incomparably more valuable than any letters after a name.

New objective: Michelle L. Grover will spend a cherished amount of time each day with Jesus, by reading His Word, by talking with Him in prayer, by singing and by journaling. mlg

Reeval submitted 5/27/10.
michelle l. grover

welcoming our adorable new nephew... with love and prayers

2010-05-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

Brandt Ethan was born May 25! He's absolutely precious!!

For more pictures and prayer updates, click on link.

http://www.brandtsbeacon.blogspot.com/

Currently holding his own with no oxygen and a great set of lungs!

1st HypoLeftPlasticHeart surgery scheduled for Tuesday, June 1.

Thankful Parents: Glenn and Lindy Markevich

Excited Big Bro's: Joel & Seth

With so much love already!

... & lots of prayers,

aunt michelle =)

family time

2010-05-26T12:59:00.000-07:00

First-priority ministry: My family! (Some recent pix.)

My awesome husband, taken at the state park last nite...

("So much for being able to start a fire with two sticks."--Alan. ... The coals never did catch fire--even with lighter fluid doused on them--but they still managed to flavor the meat nicely, and we all enjoyed a nice picnic, complete with pasta salad and carrot cake.)

And our beloved boys, taken at Davy Crockett's birthplace in TN...

(Love that they love the historic stuff! We're reading through BJU Press' 8th grade History textbook, The American Republic, this summer. How cool is that!)

Hope you're enjoying your family this summer too!!
michelle

book review: the wormling series

2010-05-21T06:58:00.001-07:00

I just finished reading the five-book Wormling series by Jerry B. Jenkins & Chris Fabry last night. In order from 1 to 5, the titles are: The Book of the King, The Sword of the Wormling, The Changeling, The Minions of Time, and The Author's Blood.

Rather than give you a play-by-play, I'm going to do pros and cons lists and let you decide if you want your kids to read these:

PROS:
*Plot is very possibly Jenkins/Fabry's greatest strength. They weave together an intricate map of two worlds that mirror one another and finally converge at the fulfillment of the final prophecy of the King. Commendable feat.

*Highly imaginative--though sometimes ridiculous--this series fits into the fantasy category w/o question

*Plugs for reading Scripture and living by the Book, obeying the King, living by faith regardless of sight, serving others, loving the outcast, and so on

*Highly allegorical, though not completely--this is consistent with most Christian fantasy

*Short chapters that keep the flow going--especially for today's young readers

*Multiple viewpoint characters--helpful for training the brain to hold information and wait for gratification/resolution

*Vocabulary building--defines a lot of words within the text (which is to say he tells you what the word means without you having to look it up in the dictionary)

*Classic quotes at the beginning of each book--love these!

*Good vs. evil is clearly defined; and the good triumphs over the evil--a must for truly good literature!!

*Many great truths explained and/or applied appropriately

*Uses descriptions of music as part of his scene-setting, the Dragon's being called "a percussive hymn" and "cacophony"; starkly contrasted by the King's peace-giving and joy-filled strains.

*Clever, easy-to-remember character names: Owen Reeder is the main character whose gift is reading and who lives in a bookshop; Clara Seacrest has eyes that sparkle like the sea; Watcher is the dog-like, faithful friend who has been watching for the return of the Wormling and whose gift is to recognizing even invisible presences; sometimes using synechdoche, naming the character, e.g., "White Shirt"; biblical allusions, such as Rachel (who weeps for her child) and Nicodemus....

CONS:
*Tells the story rather than showing us what happens along the way, probably to condense space, but at times it's jarring and/or disappointing.

*The whole five-book series was written within two years' time and lacks the finesse that I would've expected from a renowned author who boasts his own Writer's Guild. Specific areas: repetitive word choice/phrasing (types of verbals) and less than smooth flow/transitions. Maybe it's just me: "Not my style" (although recently I've found several others who would agree, having read other books/series, that there are some stylistic elements that could be improved in more than just the children's fiction writing). One more read-aloud would've done wonders, I'm convinced, but that takes time when you're pushing to make the deadline and/or another quick sale. Thankfully, the plot allows a forgiving reader to move on. However, and unfortunately, an additional pre-release revision would've made this series more enduring than it undoubtedly will be. ... C.S. Lewis is still the unrivaled Christian fantasy champion.

*A handful of not-helpful descriptors ("as if he'd drunk too much"--hopefully the age group he's writing to hasn't seen too much of this; "testosterone-laden" as an adjective for teens; "yeah, right you were looking at her eyes;" and so forth): sure, these are believable, but is it what we want to have our kids laugh at or focus on? The story would be just as strong, and I would argue stronger, if they were to leave these out. We choose our audience by what we write, and apparently/sadly they've chosen a pop culture group of kids versus the families that are trying to teach godly discernment to their young people. However (to use one of their favorite words), we can use even this element to help our kids learn that that's not funny or necessary.

*Cheesy, at times...

*Lack of discernment at one major point: Throughout most of the book, the words from the Book of the King are loosely translated from the Bible. Then in book 3 (p. 108), they quote the following from the book of the King: "As long as the King gives me breath, I will honor him and thank him... [an obviously biblical allusion; but then following right on its tale is some flagrant psychobabble:] ... Allow your heart the freedom it craves and then have the courage to follow it." This teaching doesn't fit the whole rest of the Book. Be careful. The intended audience age may not be discerning enough to pull this out, especially since it's so craftily wedged amidst really good, biblical thoughts.

*Definitely aimed at a specific age audience, rather than "the childlike of all ages" (George MacDonald, classic fantasy author and inspiration for C.S. Lewis).

CONCLUSION:

*I made notes in my copies at each of the points that lack discernment as well as at points where literary techniques or biblical truths are used with skill. I always recommend parents/teachers pre-read books they give their kids and talk through any crucial and/or questionable concepts as well as any literary devices their kids could incorporate into their own writing.

*The story begins with good intrigue, waxes a little in books two, three and four with journeys and battles that get a bit long and somewhat repetitive, though interesting and important characters are added along the way. The authors leave enough threads dangling that the reader is encouraged to press on and tie it all together--which is what the fifth book in the series does. Book Five is, in my opinion, the best of the five.

To read Michele Howe's plot summary for each of the five books in Jenkins/Fabry's Wormling series, click on the title link for this blog post.

And then, you decide.

michelle

book review: same lake, different boat--final installment

2010-05-04T17:53:00.000-07:00

The final chapter of Same Lake, Different Boat was perhaps the most convicting for me: "On Change: Revolution or Reformation."

Having taught through a fiction title based in the French Revolution this year, and loving Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities, the very word revolution conjurs up various and sundry graphic images. Once fully persuaded in our minds of the need for implementing the truths in Same Lake, Different Boat, truths founded clearly in Scripture, it is only natural to want to convince everyone else of their need to change too. But the manner in which we educate others and exhort them to change must be full of grace. I am so thankful for this timely admonition from a sister in Christ.

"Revolution," Stephanie writes, "is energized by frustration, promotes the forcible change of external behaviors, values the attainment of its cause above the worth of others, and focuses on the acquisition of power from its enemies" (224). Ouch! She doesn't mince words here. And she shouldn't. "If we conform to the world's pattern--revolution" (216), we will very likely end up with wounded souls in the process.

"Reformation is energized to promote change as a heartfelt response of gratitude toward God for His merciful intervention in our own lives" (216). "God's pattern for transformation--reformation--always starts with with personal Spirit-led change from within the human heart" (217). It is an "ongoing" process in my heart. It "retains a sense of personal perspective while simultaneously valuing all people, and focuses on the expression of love toward others" (224).

I love the way she sums up this idea of "reformation": "the narrow road ... a long obedience ... small beginnings, quiet faithfulness, and a humble reputation" (ibid).

It is my sincere desire that these posts have been helpful to you. I am convinced that you will be encouraged by Stephanie's book. And whereas Stephanie is from the Presbyterian theological perspective and utilizes the word "covenant" far more than I am used to having grown up in a Baptist church, how can we not love and learn from this woman who clearly embraces the cross of Jesus Christ and so obviously has a vibrant personal relationship with Him, a woman who doesn't just tell others what they should do but sets the example--and sets it high.

Thank you, Stephanie, for your "justice, mercy and faithfulness" in sharing with us the things God has so graciously taught you. You have been an encouragement to my heart and made an impact that will be enduring.

And so, book read, highlighter expired, and truths still working their way in, I commend to you Same Lake, Different Boat: Coming Alongside People Touched by Disability by Stephanie O. Hubach, published by P&R Publishing.

And if a condensed audio format is helpful, visit http://www.archive.org/details/StephanieHubachSameLake_DifferentBoat_IdentifyingwithandMinisteringAlongsidePeopleTouc or click on the title to part 1 of these book reviews.

Grace to you, and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, and power from the Spirit of truth and love,

michelle

book review: same lake, different boat--part three

2010-05-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

In the third and final section of the fabulously helpful, intensely practical book Same Lake, Different Boat, Stephanie Hubach makes direct application to the Church. Part three of this blog review will cover chapters 10 through 12, and I will reserve a final post for the concluding chapter.

Quoting from Matthew 23:23-24 in chapter 10, the author urges us to apply Jesus' emphasis on "justice, mercy and faithfulness."

Justice "does not promote compensation of the 'poor' at the expense of the 'great,' but calls for the restoration of a level playing field with regard to the treatment of both groups. The goal is not to show partiality to anyone, but fairness to all... not to convey that people with special needs are somehow God's special people--those who are due extraordinary rights and privileges [but] to restore a fair and respectful treatment of every person as a unique individual created in the image of God" (155). "The antithesis [or opposite] of justice is oppression--the holding down of another--through the use of power ina way that is immoral and inequitable...either actively or passively" (ibid). But she tempers her challenge to those who neglect justice with a warning to those of us who are passionate about advocating for persons with disabilities: "Don't let the callousness of others cause your own heart to become hard or self-righteous. Peaceful change comes through a posture of humility" (158).

Mercy, according to St. Gregory of Nyssa is "a voluntary sorrow which enjoins itself to the suffering of another" (qtd 159). Stephanie points out this definition does not say "others in general--but another--a single, individual, unique, and precious person" (161). Well spoken, Steph!

Faithfulness, finally, is an "unwavering, personal commitment for the duration" reflective of God's faithfulness demonstrated via loyal love.

Chapter 11 discusses God's beautiful design for "unity in diversity" (171). This chapter is chock full of Scripture and then gives practical applications for Christian education (which Stephanie broadens to include Sunday School and other teaching times in a Christian setting, not just formal instruction in a private school setting). Implementing some alliteration, she goes on to discuss applications for Community Life (helping make social connections within the Body), Corporate Worship (urging us to rethink how we define a "disruption," Caring, allowing those with disabilities to Contribute to the life of the Body.

"It takes wisdom to know how to implement those principles effectively" (188). But "graciously engaging individuals and their families in justice, mercy, and faithfulness [is not necessarily] straightforward. [If it were, chapter 12] would be titled 'On Rules: What Every Church Should Do.' Instead, it is aptly titled, 'On Wisdom: Questions Every Church Should Answer'" and asks the following questions: "whom do we help?", "how much do we help?", "when do we help?", "how do we help?", "from where do we help?", and "with what attitude do we help?". This chapter was incredibly helpful for thinking through philosophy of ministry in general, not just disability ministry. For example, my heart was pricked in thinking through some times in our church's inner-city ministry with the following quote: "Carrying around an overinflated view of ourselves and one that lacks genuine respect, we will likely create more harm than good as we condescend to the person who is, quite literally, the 'object' of our ministry" (206). It is so important that we are worshiping with not just to. And that we are ministering from a posture of grace, realizing how great grace has been necessarily bestowed on each of us.

May each of us prayerfully consider the applications and how to answer the questions God has brought to our minds and hearts.

book review: same lake, different boat--part two

2010-05-04T15:36:00.001-07:00

In chapter four, author Stephanie Hubach effectively speaks to the "relentlessness" of disability: "For some families touched by disability, relentlessness comes in the form of providing decades of personal care, or heart-wrenching struggles with communication, aggression, or self-injury on the part of the individual with special needs. Maybe it arrives in the form of endless hospitalizations, lack of access to transportation, joblessness, social isolation, or any of a myriad of other issues"(56). I love the way this author paints the realistic picture with brush strokes of specific examples to help us think through the variety of struggles a family faces.

In the face of relentlessness, the only response that offers any true hope is one of "God-reliance." We are all tempted toward one of two extremes--the "victim mentality" or the "'I will beat this' attitude." But Scripture gives us the counter-cultural, God-dependent perspective for dealing with difficulty, in part illustrated through the OT biblical hero of Joseph, a man who was also "thrust into a difficulty not of his own choosing" and found success both in the end and in the meantime.

After firmly laying a biblical foundation for understanding disability, Stephanie moves on to "Part 2" where she specifically addresses needs in a family setting, things such as giving a family time to deal with the natural emotion of grief and allowing them the time to adjust to a "new normal" while they process the changes to their family life. She so graciously challenges to a balance between "privacy" for the family and availability/"presence."

I would do the author and her book an injustice if I were to try to sum up the next few chapters. They are so rich with practical suggestions for building acceptance ("embracing reality as it is right now [and being willing] to embrace reality as it will be when the future becomes the present"), rich with Scripture, and rich in real-life examples that aptly illustrate the truths she is presenting.

In the final paragraph of Part 2, Stephanie draws the following conclusion: "Living with long-term disability can provide a Great Opportunity to illuminate the entrance to the narrow gate" (146).

I will conclude with one of my favorite illustrations quoted from Christopher deVinck:
"I grew up in a house where my brother was on his back in his bed for thirty-two years, in the same corner of his room, under the same window, beside the same yellow walls. He was blind, mute. His legs were twisted. He didn't have the strength to lift his head or the intelligence to learn anything.... I asked my father, 'How did you care for Oliver for thirty-two years?' 'It was not thirty-two years,' he said. 'I just asked myself, 'Can I feed Oliver today?' and the answer was always, "Yes, I can."' We lived with Oliver moment by moment" (qtd 104).

book review: same lake, different boat--part one

2010-05-03T18:32:00.000-07:00

Disability has a way of taking us by surprise and stirring fear in our hearts. We're uncomfortable with the appropriate way to respond to socially awkward situations. We're afraid we'll do the wrong thing. We're inexperienced with how to help.

In her completely honest and in her sweet, coming-alongside-you manner of hospitality, Stephanie Hubach puts her arm around each individual who has a heart to learn about meeting the needs of individuals and families touched by disability and gently shepherds us in theologically-based, throughly practical applications of Biblical love exercised in the Body of Christ.

Beginning by establishing a Biblical view of disability as "a normal part of an abnormal world" (as contrasted with the historical or modern view as "an abnormal part of a normal world" and the postmodern view as "a normal part of a normal world"), Steph identifies "disability [as] essentially a more noticeable form of the brokenness that is common to the human experience" (29). We live in an abnormal world, the result of the Fall of man. Were it not for the effects of sin, there would be no disability. That is not at all to say that there is a direct causal factor with an individual or family's experience with disability; in fact, the Gospel is very clear that God ordains disability in the lives of some for the sole purpose of displaying His work in their lives for their benefit and the benefit of others (see John 9:1-3).

One of the gem-like truths of Scripture that Stephanie repeatedly holds to the light is the fact that we are all created in the image of God. If we believe this, that each individual to varying degrees reflects God's image, we will value the sanctity of human life and will both cherish and respect one another. I love the picture Steph uses to illustrate this concept: "the image of God within each individual can be likened to a mirror that reflects God's glory, in part, to others. Unmarred at creation, what an incredible and awesome reflection that must have been! In a world now impacted by the fall, each person's mirror is cracked, yet all the pieces still remain. Consequently, the looking glass reflects a distorted view of God's glory--but it remains a partial mirror of him just the same. Our struggle enters in because we find it so much easier to identify the cracks in the mirror, and so we miss the image entirely. It takes a conscious effort for us to concentrate on the most fundamental blessing of creation--that we are all created in the image of God--and to gaze speechlessly at his goodness, truth, and beauty in others. Yet lives are radically transformed--ours and those around us--when we intentionally choose to focus on the image of God within" (46). I love that!

To hear author Stephanie Hubach talk about these topics, click on the title above. I plan to continue this review in subsequent posts, but that ought to whet your appetite for now.

Praying for you as you digest this information,
michelle

creative bud vase

2010-05-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

A flower is a gift of beauty to be enjoyed. Micah and Jordan-Elliot and I cut these together this morning, two from each of them. I hope if you're a mom you are as eagerly gifted with the various weeds and wonders little fingers find in creation.

In addition to flowers, I love quality herbs and spices, as evidenced by the empty jars. Aside from fresh-cut from the garden, McCormick's are the best. Tarragon, Dill Weed and Ground Coriander Seed are three of my favorite spices currently.

I grew up using dill, thanks to the Polish roots; Mom's chicken salad is kissed with tarragon and oh, so sweet; and the infamous recipe postcard for "Falafel--Israel's national snack" from Alan's trip last summer introduced me to coriander (also a gentle substitute for those allergic to pepper).

The glass McCormick's jars provide a fitting way to enjoy the kids' top picks in my kitchen. They're just the right size and such a fun, fresh way to showcase my little guys' gifts of love.

A transparent ribbon around the mouth of the jar would be a sweet touch as well.

Hope you have a wonderful summer, staying creative and cherishing all the memory-making moments.

Woman to Woman: Sharing Jesus with a Muslim Friend

2010-03-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

We met in a shoe store. The woman was wearing the customary clothing that identified her as Muslim, and she had her young son with her. We started talking casually, and I told my boys that these people are the ones who speak Arabic, like we're learning.

You see, for Christmas a couple of years ago, my husband and I bought a family gift: Rosetta Stone for Arabic. It's as much a game as anything, matching pictures with Arabic words. I love the calligraphic way their letters are shaped. I love the sound of the words. And more and more, I love the people who speak this language.

In the shoe store that day, my boys were thrilled to practice their pronunciation of a few of their favorite Arabic words. The mother and son were apparently pleased. Then, very perceptively, the boy asked, "If they're learning our language, are they going to become Muslim too?"

Door wide open. I was able to share that actually we were trying to learn Arabic so that we could share with Muslim people about who Jesus is and how they could have eternal life in heaven with God forever... but to tell them in their own language so it would be easier to understand.

Our conversation didn't go much further. But I have thought of them often, and my love for their souls has increased over and again.

Over the past couple of weeks, God has been growing in me that love for Muslim women. One of the tools He's used is a fabulously personable read entitled Woman to Woman: Sharing Jesus with a Muslim Friend. In this book, Joy Loewen shares her personal journey from fear (as a child growing up in a predominately Muslim culture) to love (as she and her husband minister in their homeland of Canada to Muslim immigrants). Joy invites us into her life, introducing us to her precious Muslim friends. She identifies specific obstacles as well as points of connection in an attempt to help you and I build relationships with Muslims in our community more effectively. I appreciated Joy's emphasis on the Word of God and her clear teaching regarding Who Jesus is--more than just a Prophet and Healer, He is the Giver of Life and our Savior God.

Last Saturday, I ran to the mall for less than one hour. In that brief window of time, I saw two identifiably Muslim women. I smiled warmly at them and in return received the most beautiful smiles in the world. How I wish we had had a chance to talk, but what I saw was an open receptivity to genuine love.

How often are Muslims in our community steered clear of or worse scorned? When was the last time one of those ladies had received a sincere smile from a Christian in America?

I pray that in the near future the Lord would increase my effectiveness in this corner of His harvest field. The harvest truly is plenteous! It is my heart's desire to go beyond a smile, beyond casual conversation, and to be able to build enduring, fruitful relationships with these dear women and their families.

If you are Muslim and reading this, I would encourage and invite you to read what you call the Injil (the Gospels). There you will discover Who Jesus is and that He came to show you love by facing death for you. He died and rose again to save your soul from hell. Through believing in Him as our Savior and God, we can have our sins forgiven and enjoy eternity in heaven together!

May Jesus Christ be praised!

I love you,

michelle

Redeemed from promiscuity & Radically Transformed according to God's promise and for His glory!

2010-02-24T19:57:00.000-08:00

The Word of God is filled with examples of women and men who were bound by the chains of sin and yet freed by the power of God. This past weekend, I was humbled to present a workshop to our InnerCity Ministry teens and adults regarding the Gospel and Sexuality. The following is a portion of that workshop that I hope will be an encouragement to you no matter what situation you are in. I believe we can each relate to one (or more) of the following examples from Scripture.

As you read, know that, no matter what situation you find yourself in, God is willing and delighted to redeem you and radically transform your life by the grace of the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, who completely paid the penalty of your sin and granted you His righteousness out of love.

Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah (2 Samuel, chapters 11 & 12): due to some impropriety, though very likely unintentional, you now feel pressured or trapped into having sex with a guy; you think you are not able to resist b/c of who this guy is (maybe he's not King David, but maybe he's the captain of a football team or an important person at work...

Dinah, sister of Judah (Genesis, chapter 34): just curious about what everybody else is doing, you want to be a part of the crowd and wind up getting taken advantage of, the victim of rape...

Tamar, forsaken youth (Genesis, chapter 38): felt it was her right to have a child, encouraged by others to gain her right of passage by giving birth, and so played the harlot to fulfill her right...

Harlot, on the street corner (Proverbs, chapter 7): planted yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, wanting to look sexy and attract the simple guys' attention, just wanted to have some "fun," convinced yourself there wouldn't be any consequences (wrongly)....

The Samaritan woman at the well (John, chapter 4): went from one man to the next seeking for satisfaction; after five failed marriages, she was living with a man who was not her husband. (Jesus knew this; nothing is secret from Him)....

Gomer, promiscuous wife of the prophet Hosea (the book of Hosea): promiscuity is all you've ever known; you're addicted to sex; even when shown true love, you find yourself back in the clutches of lust...

Rahab, prostitute of Jericho; Ruth, daughter of Moab (Joshua, chapters 2 & 6; the book of Ruth): you've grown up in a sensual culture, but you know there's got to be something better and you're willing to give up what you know for what you have now come to believe (the truth about God and salvation)...

Mary, the mother of Jesus (the Gospels, esp. Luke, chapters 1 & 2): you are still a virgin, your heart is to serve the Lord no matter what. you know there's a cost, but you're convinced God's way is the best and only way to be content and truly happy....

Remember, no matter what situation you find yourself in, God is willing and delighted to redeem you and radically transform your life by the grace of the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, who completely paid the penalty of your sin and granted you His righteousness out of love.

The rest of their stories?

They were dead in their sins, but Christ woke them up and shined His love and grace into their hearts (Ephesians 2 & 4).

Gomer (prostitute wife of prophet Hosea) was restored to her husband. God used their story to illustrate the spiritual adultery of God’s people when they leave Him and pursue after false gods and vain pleasures.

Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba & Mary all ended up in the family line of the Messiah Jesus our Lord! (See Matthew, chapter 1.) Tamar conceived twins by her father-in-law, yet God used one of those sons to fulfill His promise; Rahab married a faithful man named Salmon and together they raised a faithful man named Boaz, who then redeemed Ruth. Ruth was the mother of Obed and eventually the great-grandmother of King David. David lusted after Bathsheba. The child born through their affair died, but God granted their marriage another son, the wise king Solomon. Mary, that humble young lady, held the ultimate promise within her virgin womb: the greatest miracle and fulfillment of God's great plan, our hope to this day and forever, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Many people in the forsaken town of Samaria believed on Jesus because of the testimony of the woman at the well, a woman who was known for promiscuity. In fact she had had five husbands and was now living with a man that was not her husband. But Jesus intentionally directed His path through her forsaken hometown and patiently led this woman to redeeming faith (See John, chapter 4.)

Jeremiah prophesied to a culture not so dissimilar to our own:“Return, faithless [daughter],” declares the LORD. “I will not look on you in anger, for I am merciful,” declares the LORD; “I will not be angry forever. Only acknowledge your guilt, that you rebelled against the LORD your God and scattered your favors among foreigners under every green tree, and that you have not obeyed My voice,” declares the LORD; “for I am your Master; I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion” (Jeremiah 3:12-14).

Your city and your family may be trapped in the habits of sexual sins, but you don't have to stay in the grasp of immorality. God offers you freedom and restoration if you will believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as your Redeemer, your Savior and King. He longs to give you grace and peace.

I would recommend reading Ephesians, especially chapters 2 & 4. If I can be of any help to you, please email me at ps48.14fam@gmail.com.

I am praying for you even as I write this. No matter what your sin, God's grace is greater!May you be overwhelmed by His mercy and love and the unchanging truth of our faithful God.

With love,
michelle grover

Simply Splendid: Peppermint Choc-Chip Cookies

2010-02-22T15:02:00.000-08:00

An adaptation of a recipe I came across:
Preheat oven to 375 F.

1 cup butter, very soft
1/2 tsp pure peppermint extract
2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup powder sugar
1 cup Ghiradelli semi-sweet chocolate chips

Mix together, adding chocolate chips last. It's kind of crumbly but presses together nicely.
Dump onto Pampered Chef Stoneware bar pan and press down.
Bake at 375 F until lightly browned.
Allow to cool a little.
Serve in squares with a tall glass of your favorite milk. (Anyone else for chocolate almond milk or vanilla soy?)

heart beat

2010-02-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

Over and over again in His Word, God draws attention to the word "heart"--His heart, our heart, individual hearts, the heart of cities and nations; the seat of passions, the center of our beings, the primary organ for existence. And though our focus is often subverted to the externals, God's focus is on the heart!

I want to recommend a bold book that cuts to the heart:
Eyes Wide Open: Avoiding the Heartbreak of Emotional Promiscuity.
In this book, Brienne Murk challenges the trend of technical virgin and emphasizes the heart of purity. "Emotional entanglement happens when we seek fulfillment in the things of this world rather than in God. This is a problem that goes back thousands of years. In the Old Testament, the prophet Jeremiah was referred to as 'the weeping prophet' because he so empathized with God's sorrow over Israel's sin--the sin of forsaking their first love and giving their hearts away to other gods (see Jeremiah 2). Over and over again, Israel had to learn that what the world offers cannot satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts. The key to escaping emotional entanglement is to cultivate a heart that is completely focused on God."

I've include selections from Jeremiah 2 in this post that highlight Israel's promiscuity and God's aching heart. These are key passages that, if we're honest, we can readily relate to each time we seek to replace God with any thing or any one else. It's a fairly lengthy passage, but worth our reflection.

This is what the Lord says:
“I remember how eager you were to please me
as a young bride long ago,
how you loved me and followed me
even through the barren wilderness....

"Has anyone ever heard of anything
as strange as this?
Has any nation ever traded its gods for new ones,
even though they are not gods at all?
Yet my people have exchanged their glorious God
for worthless idols!
The heavens are shocked at such a thing
and shrink back in horror and dismay,”
says the Lord.

“What have you gained by your alliances with Egypt
and your covenants with Assyria?
What good to you are the streams of the Nile
or the waters of the Euphrates River?
Your wickedness will bring its own punishment.
Your turning from me will shame you.
You will see what an evil, bitter thing it is
to abandon the Lord your God and not to fear him.
I, the Lord, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, have spoken!

“Long ago I broke the yoke that oppressed you
and tore away the chains of your slavery,
but still you said,
‘I will not serve you.’
On every hill and under every green tree,
you have prostituted yourselves by bowing down to idols.
But I was the one who planted you,
choosing a vine of the purest stock—the very best.
How did you grow into this corrupt wild vine?
No amount of soap or lye can make you clean.
I still see the stain of your guilt.
I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!

“You say, ‘That’not true!
I haven’t worshiped the images of Baal!’
But how can you say that?
Go and look in any valley in the land!
Face the awful sins you have done....
When will you stop panting after other gods?
But you say, ‘Save your breath.
I’m in love with these foreign gods,
and I can’t stop loving them now!’
...

“How you plot and scheme to win your lovers.
Even an experienced prostitute could learn from you!...
And yet you say,
‘I have done nothing wrong.
Surely God isn’t angry with me!’
But now I will punish you severely
because you claim you have not sinned.
First here, then there—
you flit from one ally to another asking for help.
But your new friends in Egypt will let you down,
just as Assyria did before.
In despair, you will be led into exile
with your hands on your heads,
for the Lord has rejected the nations you trust.
They will not help you at all" (from Jeremiah 2, NLT).

Yet God cries out with a promise to heal:

“My wayward children,” says the Lord,“come back to me, and I will heal your wayward hearts” (Jeremiah 3:22, NLT).

Sometimes it's a long process, but we have the loving God whose heart pursues human hearts. He delights to heal us, to restore us to true fellowship with Him, a relationship full of hope and peace and joy.

On a side: remembering that human love is a gift from Him to illustrate to the world the love of Christ for the redeemed Church, "Wives, we must submit to our husbands (no matter how difficult that may seem) in the same way we submit to our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5, paraphrase). This is often one of our best tools for evangelism as we interact with a world seeking satisfaction from all the wrong places and coming up empty over and over again in their own relationships. And as we cultivate our love for God, our love for those He loves can only grow.

Dear Lord Jesus, help me today smash the idols and smother the stench of incense burned to false deities in my heart. Cleanse me, Lord. I want my heart to be Your home, full of only the things that You would delight to have surrounding You in Your dwelling place. Grow me in love, for You first and always, and then in my love for those You've placed around me. Fulfill Your purposes in me, in each of us. Amen.

michelle

"little words"

2009-12-31T08:06:00.000-08:00

"We are all like the Word himself--we might say that we are 'little words,' made to be communicators in words just like our Creator. God is the One who called all worlds into being by his creative word, who sustains and rules over all things y his powerful and law-giving word, who reveals himself by his truth-giving word, who communicates by his life-giving word. We are to use language in imitation of him by exercising the gifts of creative imagination, by understanding and naming the world around us, by revealing ourselves truthfully in all we say and write, by communicating with our Creator and with one another to build trust and to give life to all of our relationships."

(from Jerram Barrs' _Through His Eyes: God's Perspective on Women in the Bible_, Eve at Creation, 17-18)

Reviewing this book for the Campus Store. So far, I'm loving it!!
michelle

clean & secure... a computer analogy

2009-12-26T11:06:00.000-08:00

"God of grace, I stand astounded, cleansed, forgiven and secure.
"All my fears are now confounded, and my hope is ever sure." (from Getty/Rea)

Over the Christmas holiday, I got a virus on my computer. Thankfully a friend of mine is an IT whiz! He tutored me over the phone as we wiped out the main virus (Security Tool; dubbed 5201109.exe). But there were multiple other applications (sr882388.exe, siszyd32.exe, fjhdyfhsn.bat, _ex-08.exe, _ex-68.exe). ... It was a MESS!

On Christmas Eve, I thought I had it all. I made the comment on FB: "Praising the Lord for a clean computer & computer savvy mission team friend who bailed me out. I can actually see how some people could enjoy this stuff. Took ~3 hours in all to clear the Security Tool virus, his pseudonyms and all his mucusy cohorts. And so finally at 2:22 [am], I can say, 'Merry Christmas to all, and to all a GOOD NIGHT!'"

But alas, there were more infected ... "temporary internet files" under Content.IE5, that needed to be cleaned out, which included getting into both the computer's registery editor (regedit) as well as its command center (cmd) via "Run" and deleting files that wouldn't show up anywhere else. Finally after three days (probably 7 hours of work), the (now installed) Security Suite from Charter is finally declaring the computer clean! 0 viruses, 0 adware, 0 malware, 0 riskware...

For me, it's an illustration of the work of Christ, picturing salvation, sanctification, and finally glorification. Allow me to make the analogy:

I was a MESS! Sin was at work in my soul down at the command center level, and it was deemed fatal. There would be a total system failure, and literally, "hell to pay."

BUT GOD, Who is rich in mercy, sent His Son JESUS to come to Earth, taking on human flesh so that He could be the perfect substitute for lost humanity (see Eph 2:1-9 & the Gospel of Luke).

When I put my faith in Him, He took away my sin. Jesus declared me righteous in relationship with God. In effect, He cleaned out sin, the main virus, along with its eternally fatal consequence.

AND YET there were/are still affected areas of my life, results from my previous condition. I still have sinful habits--spiritual malware, if you will. It takes time to clear all of that out. That is where the process called sanctification comes in. To sanctify simply means to set apart, to make holy or clean. And so the Word of God sanctifies me. Like a valid security scanner, it points out to me problem areas and cleans out what it can.

It also acts as a shield. (Side note: The idea that God is our Shield recently sunk into my 5-year-old, knight-loving son's mind. You're right, Micah! That's a very cool thought!) God, His Spirit, and His Word protect me from evil.

But (back to the analogy) sometimes just reading the Word isn't enough.

James 1:21-25, niv: "Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does."

There are times that the antivirus security software program locates a problem but cannot clean it out by itself. That's when I have to get into the cmd or regedit and purposefully delete infected files. Similarly, in my sanctification, I have responsibility in the cleansing of my own heart, mind, and body.

"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (James 4:8, esv, emphases mine)

"Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God." (2 Cor 7:1, esv, emphasis mine)

This sanctifying/cleansing takes determination and practice, cutting out the bad habits of my former state, renewing my mind by memorizing specific statements of Truth from the Word of God, and establishing new habits and ways of doing things (see Ephesians 4).

Let me just say this here, biblical counseling from a pastor who studies and applies the Word of God faithfully can be very helpful in this area. And it doesn't have to be a "big deal." It could be that you work through eliminating a lot of major issues, but there's still a few hidden files that you're having a hard time putting your finger on and fixing. You know there's something wrong, but can't quite figure it out. Just as we would seek help from a computer technician if the problem was on our computer, getting advice from a biblical pastor can be extremely helpful.

And now let's focus on that final phrase of 2 Corinthians 7:1, "Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God." (2 Cor 7:1, esv, emphasis mine)

We can have confidence that one day holiness will be complete as we perfectly fear God and enjoy His presence forever. No more sin, no more sickness... and no more malware--of any sort!
That's the glorification aspect. Heaven, at last!

In retrospect, one of the sad realities is that the Charter Security Suite is free to those who choose Charter as their internet service provider and yet I had not installed it onto my computer. The comparable, though far greater, truth is that salvation is free to all those who will put their trust in Jesus Christ.

Without accepting His free gift, I allow sin to overtake my soul, blocking out anything good that would be possible. With Christ, I am "cleansed, forgiven, and secure."

And so in conclusion, I share with you again a cherished hymn text (from Getty/Rea) that I am LOVING this holiday season:

"God of grace, amazing wonder, so immeasurable and free;
"Oh, the miracle of mercy, Jesus reaches down to me.
"God of grace, I stand in wonder, as my God restores my soul.
"His own blood has paide my ransom, awesome cost to make me whole.
...
"God of grace, I stand astounded, cleansed, forgiven and secure.
"All my fears are now confounded, and my hope is ever sure."

Thank You, Gracious God.
michelle

just a "little" note ... merry CHRISTmas!

2009-12-25T18:54:00.000-08:00

Reveling in the reality that God often chooses little, insignificant things to glorify Himself. Thinking specifically of Micah 5:2, "O Little Town of Bethlehem." And then remembering, too, the love of Jesus for "little children" and the reality that "of such is the kingdom of Heaven." Had a wonderful day with our little family rejoicing in our Awesome God and His great Gift to us!! Merry Christmas to you & yours ... With love, michelle

Our God Reigns

2009-12-23T04:08:00.001-08:00

Part of Moses' song in Exodus 15 reads: "In your unfailing love You will lead the people you have redeemed. In Your strength You will guide them to Your holy dwelling. The nations will hear and tremble...The LORD will reign for ever and ever!"Today, though I am more aware of my shortcomings than at previous times, I am rejoicing that God is in control and that He LOVES me. He proved it at Calvary. He continues to demonstrate it in His daily leading, bolstering me, gracing me, on my journey Home. I pray that God would use me and my family as He did Moses and his family to show the nations that there is ONE GOD and He deserves our worship.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-13T10:52:00.000-08:00

Hungry for Thanksgiving...

2009-11-26T18:03:00.000-08:00

What? We're going to eat as a family for Thanksgiving!?

Turkey Meatball Soup

2009-11-26T12:56:00.000-08:00

Instead of bread crumbs, to keep this Thanksgivingish, try using cornmeal & adding a box of StoveTop turkey stuffing... Mmm. I like using Jewish type spices (ever since Alan went to Israel): coriander, pinches of cayenne & cumin... Mmm. Thanksgiving soup... for a fresh twist on my favorite holiday!

Pumpkin Pie with Soy Milk alternative

2009-11-26T08:48:00.001-08:00

In school the other day, the kids were asked to tell something they were thankful for. Micah chimed in "goats!" It might sound odd, but to a kid who doesn't get to have regular cheese, he's thankful for goat's cheese...when he gets it.

This Thanksgiving, we'll be making pumpkin pie with vanilla soy milk. Click on the title for this simple substitute.

I am so thankful for all the things the Lord allows us to enjoy. We each have limitations, and yet there are so many things that are within our grasp that we can praise Him for & enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Printables & Desktop Wallpaper

2009-11-26T08:25:00.000-08:00

Click on the title for some fun Thanksgiving printables for the kids as well as festive Thanksgiving wallpaper for your desktop. JordanElliot's working on his Thanksgiving placemat right now.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-23T17:07:00.000-08:00

So much to be thankful for... and yet it's so much more than a warm, fuzzy, gathered-with-the-family-around-a-fat-turkey feeling, devoid of a recipient.

Thanksgiving is an offering to our great God for Who He is & how personally and intentionally He interacts with us for our good in addition to His glory.

Believe me, I'm planning to enjoy my time with family, cuddled close with some warm chocolate soy milk (our version of hot cocoa) or some silk nog to sip; but my heart is to spend this Thanksgiving week giving thanks to the Giver of all good things.

Hope you have a great one too...

With love, michelle

Driven by Desperation

2009-10-26T14:22:00.000-07:00

I'm finding recently how desperately I need the Word, just more and more. I tried to read extra this summer b/c I know how difficult it can be during the school year, but I'm finding that doesn't cut it.

The more I give out, the hungrier I am. I know what's coming out through me can't be as helpful if I'm not continually restocking my resources.

I'm thankful for the extra opportunities to minister the Word and love other people in a meaningful way, not just because I love living that way and seeing change take place in others' lives, but b/c it pushes me to desperately seek God's face.

I must daily humble myself to stop the business that deceives me into thinking that I'm so important. I must instead set aside myself and sit at my Savior's feet, studying not just to teach someone else, but to know my Lord better. It is daily being washed by His Word, being scrubbed by His Spirit, that purifies my heart and its motivations.

Only then can I be truly effective. Only then can I know true joy and fulfillment.

Lord God, keep me desperate. Give me whatever You know I need to make me more and more hungry for You. I want my life to be a sweet savor to You, and I know that's only possible when I savor Your sweetness. Thank You for intentionally pursuing me and drawing me back to You again and again, closer and closer. Help me to love those around me with that kind of intentional love. Grow us each up in Christ until we all together are the perfect Body for Your Son. Thank You, Father. Thank You, Jesus. Thank You, Holy Spirit.

michelle

Houndsley & Catina

2009-10-21T14:43:00.001-07:00

Just found a fabulous new set of children's lit titles by James Howe, illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay.

The Houndsley & Catina series is reminiscent of the beloved adventures of friends like Frog & Toad and Mr Putter & Tabby... Built around the sweet friendship of a cello-playing dog who appreciates the simple things in life and loves to cook and a fashion-conscious cat who wants to be a famous writer but settles for writing really bad poetry, they also include a third friend, Bert, who is a bird and subsequently loves worms and wishes Houndsley would cook with them.

The words are lyrically beautiful; the watercolor illustrations, simply charming. Useful for encouraging your child to enjoy listening to the sounds of well-chosen words strung together, these books are also excellent for engaging your child in discussions about the essence of friendship. A treat for the child as well as the parent!

There are four titles that I am aware of:

Houndsley and Catina

Houndsley and Catina & the Quiet Time

Houndsley and Catina & the Birthday Surprise

Houndsley and Catina Plink & Plunk

At least three of these titles are available at the Greenville County Public Library.

If they're not at your library, they're worth requesting the library to order.

I hope you'll enjoy them as much as we have... Sincerely, michelle

For those of you who love that sweet coconut taste...

2009-09-05T15:22:00.000-07:00

Click on the title to see an easy recipe from Allrecipes.com. Enjoy!

A perfectly delightful anniversary

2009-07-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

7's always kind of revered as a special number. And this year, we celebrated our 7th anniversary! It was definitely special! Alan's mom watched the boys and we took off for the mountains. Ditching our tentative plans to hike Table Rock (which proved a good choice considering the downpour during dinner), we ended up discovering a new favorite in Flat Rock, NC, just a little less than an hour from our home.

Season's Restaurant at Highland Lake (website linked to the title) offered the perfect dining experience. Alan enjoyed the "Grilled Ribeye Served With Whipped Yukon Potato Mash, Onion Worcestershire Reduction and Fresh Vegetable Selections" while I experimented with the "Fresh Local Tomato and Cucumber Chilled Soup with Yogurt Drizzle" followed by the fabulous "Lump Crab and Fried Green Tomato: Napoleon Corn Meal Dusted Fried Green Tomatoes Accompanied by Lump Crab Asiago Cream Drizzled with Parsley Oil."

We split their Triple Chocolate cake, slowly savoring each bite, then tipped the waiter and headed around the corner to the Flat Rock Play House for a delightful enactment of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

The evening's play was "officially" sold out, but they assured us in the Box Office that they'd be able to get us seats by the time the play started. But as I walked over to the Box Office before show time to double check, a man stood there with his wife: "They gave us four tickets, but we only need two. Could you use them?" "Are you sure!? Can we pay you?" "No... You'll be sitting by us, though," he said. "That's fine with us. Thank you so much!"

The play was extremely entertaining, a true delight. And as we drove home, our minds and hearts full, we agreed that the Lord had His hand in the evening and that He must have wanted to encourage our marriage.

It truly was a wonderful night, the perfect way to celebrate our 7th anniversary.

building and balancing

2009-02-20T17:54:00.000-08:00

"New Year's Resolutions" only seem to last as long as it takes me to replace one short-term memory item with the next "really important thing to remember" or as long as it takes to fill a page full of neatly-scripted, carefully-worded, detailed-and-decided-upon strategies-for-change-and-success in a beautifully bound journal and then close the journal and set it on a shelf and forget which journal I wrote those goals and strategies in.

For me, resolutions are (of necessity) to be shared. I need accountability.

Daily, meaningful, quiet time in prayer and Bible study is something I desperately feel the need for. But "prone to wander--Lord, I feel it! [I'm so] prone to leave the God I [really do] love. Here's my heart! O take and seal it--Seal it for Thy courts above" (from "Come, Thou Fount"). And as frustrating as it is to admit when I have wandered from the discipline and have lost the desire, when I honestly want to grow, I will make myself thankful for the faithful friend who will ask me how I'm doing.

Diet & exercise, as a way of life, not just a whim of woe when we stand on the scale, or walk past the scale because we just don't want to know. I've recently started going to the fitness center during my lunch hour. The ladies that I have met have been "iron" for me. As we run on the indoor track or elliptical machines, lift weights, or teach each other a new Pilates stretch, we encourage each with the over-arching purpose behind the pain we're inflicting on ourselves: ultimately, increased effectiveness for the glory and praise of God, increased energy for our families, and increased efficiencies in our labors of love within and outside of our homes. Now, I will say that I count it an awesome privilege to work on the campus of a uniquely Christian institution where there is that sharpening edge of fellowship on a regular basis, but I really believe this is possible whether you're a stay-at-home mom or work in the secular work force. Finding another person that can challenge you to continue on, someone to exercise with on a regular basis. At times, I've set up different people to exercise with on different days of the week ("Amy" on Mondays and Wednesday mornings at a local university, "Rachel" on Tuesday afternoons at the park, "Lori" on Fridays, and so forth). It's not a bad idea to have a group of three or four of you that can trade off two watching each others' kids for an hour while the other two go work out. For me, exercising has been such an excellent time to build relationships.

There are obviously other areas in life that accountability is helpful for. Just meeting once in a while for tea while the kids play in the backyard or emailing if getting together isn't possible that week. A phone-call once a month to catch up and exchange prayer requests, a short hand-written "I'm praying for you today. Thought of you a lot recently and just wandered how you've been"--it doesn't have to take long, but the people that we network ourselves with are some of the special gifts the Lord has given to keep us balanced.

God called His Church, a Body. He intended for us to be "tightly joined together."

"Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him Who is the Head, into Christ, from Whom the whole Body, joined and held together by every joint with which It is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the Body grow so that It builds Itself up in love" (Ephesians 4:15,16). And obviously the flip-side of "speaking the truth in love" is being willing to listen to the truth being spoken in love.

Accountability--it's beautiful--building--balancing.

Special thanks to each of you who have held me accountable and who are holding me accountable... With love, michelle

"Doc" Thompson

2008-12-30T17:40:00.000-08:00

As the year 2008 comes to a close, our family has taken some time to reflect on the life of one of God's faithful servants: Dr. Orville C. Thompson, a.k.a. Grampa.

After discovering a blood clot in Grampa's brain, the doctors did everything they could. He had one day of incredible recovery during which he told Gramma a hundred times how much he loved her and also threatened to send her home if she didn't quit fussing over him. Bleeding in his brain erupted in three areas and despite two more procedures, the doctors could do nothing. He breathed his last earthly breath on Sunday, the 21st of December. "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." We're so thankful that his suffering was brief and that it is "not worthy to compared with the glory" that he's experiencing presently.

I'm so thankful for the testimony of a man who faithfully prayed with his wife and kissed her after every meal, supported missionary friends (including getting to worship with believers from the tribe Jim Elliot established contact with), built the local church (physically after an arsenist set fire to the building, and spiritually as he built relationships with other men), labored for the good of mankind (using his veterinary skills and wisdom to develop fertilization products and ensure quality control in food sources, etc), and was so patient in all of it. He invested in each of his family members and so many of his coworkers. And it was all a passing on of the grace that was given to him through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Grampa was led to the Lord while in the service. His conversion was real and forever. So many of his buddies preceded him to the Throne. What reunions must be going on. Can't wait 'til it's my turn, but I know it's my job to do as he did: live faithfully--praying, encouraging, supporting, and loving each step of the way.

Well done, Grampa! Looking forward to being with you and so many others, but most of all Jesus, when it's His time for me too.

Christmas Tradition: Jesse's Branch

2008-11-28T18:59:00.000-08:00

Have you noticed the trend to incorporate natural elements in interior decorating? Well, here's an advent idea that brings together creative design and spiritual truth. I love to use each tradition to instill biblical teaching into our children's minds and hearts. And they loved being a part of this one.

The boys and I went outside this morning to "find a really neat branch."

Then while they were napping, I decorated the branches with tags I had in a scrapbooking paper pad, having first written quotations from some of the following verses on them: Isaiah 4:2,3; 11:1,5-11; Jeremiah 23:1-5; 33:15; Zechariah 3:8; 6:12; Acts 13:22,23; Romans 15:12,13; Revelation 22:16. (You could use gift labels or even an address label template instead. Just holepunch in a corner. Tying pretty little ribbons through would be a nice touch depending on your style.)

Acts 13:23 (ESV) has to be one of my favorites: "Of this man [David]’s offspring God has brought to Israel a Savior, JESUS, as He promised."

And Romans 15:8-13 (ESV), which I couldn't put all of on the tiny cards, but which I'll quote here:

8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs,
9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy. As it is written,
"Therefore I will praise You among the Gentiles,
and sing to Your name."
10 And again it is said,
"Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people."
11And again,
"Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles,
and let all the peoples extol Him."
12And again Isaiah says,
"The root of Jesse will come,
even He who arises to rule the Gentiles;
in Him will the Gentiles hope."

13May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

I wrote out that thirteenth verse on the larger center card as my hope for all who may see our "Jesse's Branch."

Micah asked, "Mommy, can we keep our branch forever?" He's definitely my sentimental historian, my traditions man. Yes, I think this is a tradition we will definitely keep (even if our particular tree branch doesn't make it from year to year). Hope your families will enjoy this new tradition as well.

Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving Tradition Revisited: Cranberry Salad

2008-11-27T07:38:00.000-08:00

I still remember grinding cranberries and apples and oranges in an old-fashioned hand-grinder in preparation for Gramma's cranberry salad, a tradition most of our family members have maintained to the third and fourth generation. But I have to admit, I cheated this year. (Only sorta sorry, Gramma.) But it's faithful to the flavor and it's so much faster, which gives me a little extra time cuddling on the couch with the kiddos, tickling and sharing things we're thankful for. Okay, here goes:

Stir together...
1 can whole berry cranberry sauce
2 heaping Tbsp orange marmalade
1 small Gala apple (peeled, cored, finely chopped)

Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T07:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, dear ones. I am reminded this morning of Habakkuk 3:17-19--

"Though the fig tree should not blossom,
nor fruit be on the vines,
the produce of the olive fail
and the fields yield no food,
the flock be cut off from the fold
and there be no herd in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the LORD;
I will take joy in the God of my salvation.

GOD, the Lord, is my strength;
He makes my feet like the deer’s;
He makes me tread on my high places..." (ESV).

It feels like the constant refrain of society recently has been "economic recession," and yet as children of God, the physical trials are just one stanza of the song. Our chorus must remain "yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will take joy in the God of my salvation." That's my challenge for myself today, to keep my focus on Him. I trust you'll have a wonderful Thanksgiving trusting in Him as well.

Book Review: Liberating Ministry from the Success Syndrome

2008-11-24T17:57:00.000-08:00

A worthy read. So helpful. At points, I was so encouraged. At others, so humbled all I could do was pause from reading and pray. Kent & Barbara Hughes take you back to the Scriptures to define "success" the way God does. Very insightful exogesis, apt illustrations, transparent testimony, practical application--for all these reasons, Liberating Ministry from the Success Syndrome is a must-read-and-re-read book for those in the ministry as well as a helpful tool for those who support those in the ministry. Ladies, the chapter on "How the Pastor's Wife Can Help" is a great reminder no matter what your husband's main role is. I'm recommending this as a "Sell!" to our Campus Store and a "You've Gotta Read This" to the rest of you. Enjoy!! And may the Lord use it in your heart as He did in mine! With love, michelle

Adjusting to Culture Clash as a Missionary Wife

2008-11-22T17:08:00.000-08:00

The following is a letter from missionary Jennifer McPhail relating her personal experiences of adjusting to Cambodia. I found it helpful. Even if you may never serve on the foreign field, the insights here will certainly give some concrete ideas for how to pray for those we send out and remind us of the importance of praying.

Written November 19, 2008.

Recently, a missionary friend began a project compiling stories of missionary wives’ adjusting to their fields of service. I agreed to contribute my own testimony, pulled the painful freshman year memories out of the dusty attic, and was surprised by how the exercise encouraged my heart for today! Although the tale begins more than eight years ago, I hope the lessons I learned then can be a blessing to you all too!

Culture Clash in Cambodia

As the plane soared above O’Hare airport, the elevation change reflected the rapid change in my life situation. I was raised in small-town Deep South America, child of a country church pastor, and very comfortable with my Bible-belt social sphere. Until I married Forrest McPhail, I had never been on an airplane, and until deputation, I had never been west of the Mississippi, much less outside of the U.S.A.

To complicate my naivety, my doctor advised me not to accompany Forrest on our survey trip of Cambodia, since I was seven months pregnant with our first baby at the time. Now, on my third flight ever, I was moving half-way around the world to a place I had only seen in pictures.

Of course, the starlit glow of deputation had fairly convinced me that people everywhere were wowed by our sacrifice and commitment. The appreciative natives would doubtless dance around rejoicing once they heard the Good News of Jesus Christ we were bringing to them. I had prepared myself with missionary biographies, so I was ready to give it all, live in a hut, and eat rice and stir-fry at every meal.

The complications of the 21st century were all completely outside my box.

We descended from the clouds into steamy Pochentong Airport, where the senior missionary we would work with during language school met us. His philosophy for 12-hr. time changes was to keep us busy until evening, so our first stop was the bank to set up our monthly wire transfers. I was stunned there when I met another missionary wife at the bank wearing jeans and a tie-dyed shirt! I expected a sarong and a checkered headscarf! ...

I had bought a refrigerator and a washing machine by the end of the month, and life was looking more modern all the time. Between language school, caring for our baby, and learning how to live with a house helper, we kept fairly busy and happy for the next few months.

One big surprise for us was that the senior missionary would be relegating teaching responsibilities to Forrest and me after just seven months of language training. Their family was due for furlough, and the only other family had joined the team only two months before we had. The rookies were it!

Trials began to escalate. Our home flooded three times, twice above the electrical outlets, and we decided to move to higher ground, literally—we took a second-floor apartment. Our first landlady was less than happy, and so less than kind. My house helper was acting more like she was in charge of me, instead of the other way around, and she also began looking to us to take care of her financial crises, which came quite regularly. An attempted coup happened in the city, and the gunshots disturbed me greatly. Ever after, I could not tell if I was hearing fireworks or firearms until Forrest could comfort me (of course he could differentiate!). Worst of all, we began to understand Khmer, and so we could hear the less-than-kind comments about the “long-noses” or “frenchies,” as they call us. It seems we were not as popular as I had expected, and we began to sense this from church members as well!

Naivety was crumbling, but I was building some strong walls of resentment in its place. The beautiful smiles of the Cambodians I met began to look sinister. Forrest told me he felt like a walking dollar-bill, the way folks asked us for money all the time, especially if we wanted to tell them about Jesus. I had my pocket picked at market once, got price-gouged often, and experienced lewd remarks from the male population when I went out.

I began to retreat into my home and garner my needed emotional support from husband, daughter, teammates, and email. At this crucial point, God would not let me be. My husband disappointed my expectations, our toddler hit a most awful tantrum stage, teammates got busy with their own families, and emails from family never came when I needed them. My Sunday school class of 60-75 children ranging in age from three to twelve years was stressful, especially since my only assistant was my mischievous two-year-old. My carefully prepared lessons often came apart at the seams as I was distracted by snickers and echoes of my mispronunciations around the room.

I began to struggle with unreasoning fear at night. I would wake in terror that I could not shake, pull the sheet over my head along with a pillow, and tremble for hours. I knew oppression was a possibility, but looking back, I think adjusting to a place where I simply could not make things work like they always had led to anxiety that erupted in this way.

One morning, footsteps rushing past our landing alerted me to the fact that a missionary colleague was looking for Dr. Tom, our teammate, because the man’s wife had been hurt badly in a hit-and-run accident nearby and needed Dr. Tom’s help. The missionary community rallied in a wonderful way to get medical help, but our friend died. Their family had been staying in the building our church met in as they prepared to leave for furlough the day of the accident. I was thankful to have heard our friend’s testimony at supper a couple nights before. She told us of her great contentment with God’s working in her own life and in her relationships with her husband and children. Never had I known someone to show such peace before great tragedy. How I wanted that!

Finally, my bruised heart and thwarted will were ready to receive the feast God was preparing for me. God led my husband to a passage in Mark where Jesus was experiencing a difficult time, humanly speaking, in His ministry. In chapter 6, Jesus receives the news of the violent death of John the Baptist at the hands of King Herod. We read in verse 31 that the Lord and his disciples were so busy at that point that they could not even eat. They decided to leave by boat for needed rest in a quiet place. But the people saw them, and they ran and met them at their destination! “And Jesus, when He came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.”

Jesus knew their hearts, their motives, and their thoughts. Many of these people wanted whatever they could get from Jesus. Others had a thirst to see the supernatural. Unredeemed humanity is not lovely, no matter what country it resides in. And yet, He was moved with compassion.

I began to understand that what I needed most was Christ’s love for these Cambodian people, an unwavering love that is not based on the loveliness of the loved ones. Forrest and I began to pray to have that love, and God began to work in us.

For me, though, that was not the only issue at stake. None of the comforts that had eased my spirit at other points in my life were helping. Many of the pleasures I had enjoyed were not even available now! No libraries, malls, videos, or phone conversations. I had a gorgeous dream once that I was in a big department store where everything had price tags (Phnom Penh was still backwards then), and I shopped for hours! Comfort foods were gone too. I was shut up, like many campers feel when they go for a week of summer camp. But, like at camp, I was better prepared to hear God speak.

Desiring God, by John Piper, came into our possession, and I started to read. The more I read, the hungrier I got! Jesus Christ fulfills every longing that I felt then or will ever feel! I was craving things of the world without even realizing it, because I was dissatisfied and anxious without them. Hope sprang up in my heart that God would be all in all for me, come what may. It felt like a conversion experience, and my Bible was suddenly a personal letter for Jennifer-the-new-missionary-in-Cambodia.

If I had known what would await me on the nether side of the globe, I doubt if I would have so glibly fielded questions at our display table in the church lobbies of America. In fact, I think I would have left the task to someone better prepared. But now I would not trade my life for any other, not because of the adventure and romance of our calling, but because of how God has pushed and prodded me out of complacency and into joy.

Love, Jennifer
Forrest & Jennifer McPhail
Missionaries to Cambodia, Southeast Asia
with Gospel Fellowship Association, Greenville SC

Jeremiah: Prophet of the Heart

2008-11-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

Why is Jeremiah always referred to as the "weeping prophet"? I know he wrote Lamentations, but in reading the prophecies God spoke to and through Jeremiah in the book named after him, I am convinced a better nickname would be the "prophet of the heart."

Next time you read through the book of Jeremiah, circle the word heart. You'll see an incredible emphasis--a revelation of God's heart, a transparent heart on the part of Jeremiah, and a concern for the heart of the people God and Jeremiah are addressing.

As I was talking about this idea with my husband who is currently studying Hebrew and has been working on a sermon about Jeremiah using the original language, it was fascinating to me that his conclusion was the same.

This realization has made this Old Testament prophetic book so precious to my heart, so real for my faith in this God Whose emphasis is the heart and Who takes the time to communicate from His heart to His people's hearts.

Thank You, LORD!

Book Review: Orange Pear Apple Bear

2008-11-08T13:45:00.000-08:00

Micah was so excited with this recent library find. Author Emily Gravett arranges and rearranges the four title words "Orange Pear Apple Bear" to create clever thought images. Her watercolor illustrations throughout are simply delightful. Ending with a final "There," the entire book is accomplished with just five words. "Orange Pear Apple Bear" is sure to give young readers the encouraging experience of success: "I read the whole thing by myself, Mommy!" Now that's something to celebrate! Thanks, Emily! Hope y'all enjoy!

So what's next... CHANGE?

2008-11-05T03:44:00.000-08:00

Yes, and no. Obviously, certain things--even major things--will undoubtedly change as our country progresses toward liberalism, but One will NOT change: Our God is still on the throne. He rules over Heaven and Earth. Our hope is not in a man. It never has been. Our Hope is in GOD alone. I've been repeatedly reminded of this Truth as I've been reading through Jeremiah recently. Jeremiah was a prophet who lived in times not unlike our own. The people embraced iniquity.

They exalted idols, and (allow me take a little tangent here) though "all our gods have been domesticated, tame" (to quote a song we sing at church), the "idols" are still "like scarecrows in a cucumber field" (Jeremiah 10:5, esv). I read that the other night and thought Cool phrase! (Sorry, that's the writer in me) and then as I thought about it more, I thought, What use is a scarecrow in a cucumber patch. It's not the crows that are the threat. It's the little bugs on the ground that march unaffected by some stuffed fleece and straw hat, and it's the immense heat of the sun. Our "idols" can do nothing to ward off those things that threaten our growth. But God can.

And back to that, "The LORD is the true God; He is the living God and the Everlasting King. At His wrath the earth quakes, and the nations cannot endure His indignation" (Jeremiah 10:10, esv). "O LORD our God... We set our hope on You for You do all these things!" (Jeremiah 14:22, esv).

So, no matter what "change" we see take place in America over the next four years, keep always in mind that God is still on the throne. Sometimes He gives people what they beg for and sends leanness to their souls. America needs change, that's for sure. But what we need is a revival. Let's guard our hearts and be ever diligent in our fight for Truth, always keeping our hope firmly set on the Everlasting King.

When I Consider How My Light Is Spent...

2008-11-02T18:00:00.000-08:00

When I Consider How My Light Is Spent
by John Milton

When I consider how my light is spent,
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide,
And that one talent which is death to hide
Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent
To serve therewith my Maker, and present
My true account, lest He returning chide;
"Doth God exact day-labor, light denied?"
I fondly ask. But Patience, to prevent
That murmur, soon replies, "God doth not need
Either man's work or His own gifts. Who best
Bear His mild yoke, they serve Him best. His state
Is kingly: thousands at His bidding speed,
And post o'er land and ocean without rest;
They also serve who only stand and wait."

Am I so busy speeding about doing this and that that I neglect the other more important form of service, waiting on the Lord? This poem reminds me of Mary and Martha. My prayer this week is that the Lord would allow me to faithfully wait before His throne, to sit patiently beneath His feet and learn from His Word that Truth that I need, and then and only then to rise again and do His bidding when He sends me thence. LORD, renew my strength as I keep silence before You. Amen.

Happy Reformation Day!

2008-10-31T13:27:00.000-07:00

Martin Luther, like each of us, had his strengths and his weaknesses, his struggles and his successes (though many would not have seemed notable successes at the time). It was on this day in 1517 that he nailed up his 95 Theses, a systematic taking-down of the damning doctrines being taught by the Catholic church in his day. (Note, "damning" may sound strong/harsh, but I speak the truth in love, for any teaching that deceives a person into thinking that he/she is in right standing with the God into whose hands it is a fearful thing to fall, the God who offers redemption but demands it to be accomplished in the way He provided for, any teaching that deceives that person is condemning that person to an eternity separated from the God who died to save him/her and is therefore a religion of damning doctrine.) Personally, I'm thankful for Luther's courage and his conviction to take a stand for the Truth God communicated in His Holy, Loving Word. For a clear and practical explanation of the historical details and how they affect us today, check out www.gfcto.com/2006/04/martin_luther_and_reformation.php

Happy Reformation Day!

Book Review: Singleness Redefined

2008-10-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

Best book I've ever read on the privilege and joy of God's gift and/or time of singleness. Excellent biblical exposition, insightful illustrations from classical literature from St Augustine and John Milton to C.S. Lewis, George MacDonald, and J.R.R. Tolkien, and many more.

One of my favorite parts is the exposition of Isaiah 54:1 on pages 133-134.

Carolyn includes many honest personal testimonies from her own journey to contentment and enthusiastic service as a single. Yes, she still struggles at times, she admits, but continually hands her life over to the Lord's will, as we all must, no matter what arena of life we're in.

(Website linked to title.)

Book Review: Christian Storytelling, John Walsh

2008-10-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

If you want to improve your communication skills, whether it's to tell stories to your own kids or to make your missionary presentation more captivating, this is a great book full of practical application. Many of the principles and some great examples can be found on John's website: http://www.christianstorytelling.com/ (linked to title). Enjoy!

What to do with all those apples...

2008-10-20T16:24:00.001-07:00

Wanna make something really yummy (and naughty)? Okay, I used a regular apple pie recipe... pie dough for a double crust but add pumpkin pie spices to the dough; cook down the apples with spices and then add some flour to keep it thick; meanwhile heat about a cup of oil in a skillet; then roll out the dough (all of it) into like a 8 x 12 shape; put the apple filling inside; it's really yummy if you add some caramel and chocolate; roll up the dough; fry! =) flip; fry; pat dry on paper towels and cover with powdered sugar... Mmm. Goodness!

Apple Picking at SkyTop Orchards

2008-10-15T20:31:00.000-07:00

I think we have definitely found a family fall tradition worth repeating again and again!

Check out the two videos...

"Way up high in the tree, two green apples smiled at me. I shook that tree as hard as I could...

"Down came the apples! Mmm. Mmm. Good!"

What God wants me to be... when I grow up...

2008-10-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

I was just talking to Micah about what he wanted to be and he said he wasn't sure God knew yet what He would want him to be. I told him I was sure God knew, but that He just hadn't made it clear to him yet. =) When Jordan-Elliot said that when he grew up he wanted to be a cowboy, Micah told him it didn't matter what he "wanted" to do, he needed to do whatever God wanted him to do. But (and I said all that really to say this) then I got to share that when you want to please God, what He wants you to do will end up being something you really like doing too. I shared with him that right now God wants Mommy to be a wife, a mommy, and a teacher. I love all three. I love being Alan's wife, Micah & Jordan-Elliot's mommy, and I really am loving teaching too. "He gives us the desires of our hearts" in more than one way... =)

Strength Source

2008-09-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I took the boys up to the Wilds for a hike. After hiking to Shoals, 1st Falls & 2nd Falls, on the way back, Micah (4) paused in the middle of the trail and squatted down.

"Are you going to fall asleep?" I asked.

He shook his head no.

"Do you need to go to the restroom?"

Another negative head shake.

"What do you need, then?"

Again, w/o speaking, he dropped to his knees, folded his little hands, and about forty-five seconds later stood back up and smiled a weak smile at me.

"Do you have more strength now?"

He shook his head yes and made it the rest of the way back to camp (even deciphering which direction to go at each crossroads: follow the "W") without any complaints.

I was just so proud of him for going to the right Source.

Side note: What I didn't realize until later was that he had noticed that I had paused and bowed my head too while I waited for him. It means a lot to my kids to know that I pray for them. I don't think I always realize that. But when I commented on his pausing to pray, he said, "You prayed too, Mommy." It's encouraging to see God answer my kids' prayers and it's exciting to know they know He answers mine too.

preferred sense: hearing or seeing?

2008-09-11T16:11:00.000-07:00

I've been impressed recently with Psalm 44 and its parallel to Job 42:5.

"O God, we have heard with our ears, our fathers have told us,
what deeds you performed in their days, in the days of old:" (Psalm 44:1, esv).

The singers go on to say things such as "But now it seems you have forsaken us" and other such complaints. They longed for God to show His presence and power to them personally.

As I work in the sphere of Christian education, my burden is that so often we "hear" about God and all the things He's done...for other people...and yet we have not "seen" Him for ourselves and made Him a real part of our own life experiences.

Sometimes seeing God work takes more than we're willing to suffer. Look at all Job went through before he could finally say,

"I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,
but now my eye sees you;" (Job 42:5, esv).

Whatever it takes, Lord--whatever it takes--make me to see You and not just hear of You, and may students see You both through me and for themselves. Amen.

Nehemiah 7--planning

2008-09-11T03:52:00.000-07:00

I recently had a fellow teacher tell me that when she needs to know how to help a student grasp a concept, she takes it to the Lord. "All my ideas that work are from Him," she said.

Nehemiah would've agreed, I think. 7:5, "Then my God put it into my heart..."

Beginning to end, the best plans are those God puts into our minds and hearts. Lord, help me to listen to Your still small voice and adjust "my plans" to Yours. Amen.

Nehemiah 4 & 6--distractability vs. the disciplined life

2008-09-11T03:38:00.000-07:00

Chapter 4: Keep on working despite opposition.
Chapter 6: Stay on task; don't get distracted.

As a Christian school teacher, these lessons stood out.

Until the final triumph of Christ, there will always be opposition to His work. When we minister according to the Word of God, there will be people who don't like what we do or say. Working through these things is not always easy, but when your authority is the Word of God, then you can know by the Spirit of God that they are not upset with you. Their disagreement is with Someone much more significant.

Especially working with students with diagnosed disabilities like ADD/ADHD, you can imagine how many times a day I redirect students to the task at hand. Distractibility. I can take this lesson and preach it all day to my students, but unless I first preach it to myself and practice it myself the impact will not be as great. I have tasks to do in my classroom, in my home, in my own walk with the Lord. And if I allow myself to get distracted, I'm not the only one who suffers. If I do not work in a disciplined manner, my husband and kids suffer b/c I'm neglecting time they need me to be spending with them, my students suffer b/c my lessons are not as clear as they could be, and/or my relationship with the Lord suffers b/c I'm not spending time with Him.
As a freshman university student, I read the book The Disciplined Life. That is what I need, not for the sake of discipline, but for the cause of Christ. By God's grace, I am getting & will get better at these things. And my hope is that I can teach these things not just in word, but by example.

Help me, God. You know I need it.

Nehemiah 3:12--women in the work force

2008-09-11T03:19:00.000-07:00

I've thought a lot about this topic recently, having begun working full-time myself to help advance the cause of Christ by helping my husband get through seminary and also seeing the political scene and the strength a woman has brought to the Republican party.

As I look through the Bible, I'm encouraged that though God has an obvious priority for women as managers of their homes, He has a place for them at times in His sovereign plan in working willingly to advance His purposes. Deborah and Jael come to mind. I find it humorous that the man's name to whom Deborah says, "The road on which you are going will not lead to your glory, for the LORD will sell Sisera [a terrorist, Judges 4:1] into the hand of a woman" (Judges 4:9), is "Barak."

In Nehemiah, we find an influential man working alongside his daughters. They were the children the LORD had given him, and he taught them to be strong and willing workers. Historically, they would have had some great examples of capable women. I'm thinking not just Deborah, but Ruth and the woman described in Proverbs 31 (who may have been Ruth).

Anyways, it is encouraging to me to see God using women and encourages me to do my work for His glory and in His strength. He knows I can't do it on my own.

Nehemiah--chapters 1 & 2

2008-09-09T18:31:00.001-07:00

First it was a fellow teacher leading us through this book, then it was my two-year-old's Sunday school class. But the Lord seemed to be drawing me to it.

In chapter one as Nehemiah is confronted with discouraging news, he takes his burden/grief to the Lord. What began as simply a concerned question regarding his homeland turned into a committed season of prayer.

Nehemiah pours out his heart in praise and confession to the awesome God. He first focuses on Who God is and then on the sin of his people. He counts himself one of them and like them, a sinner. He pleads for God to remember His own Word.

And as he concludes his prayer, it seems the Lord inspires a plan; this idea of mercy being granted from the king whose cup he bears is put into his head: ask for favor from the king whom you serve.

And then as soon as he asks, he stands up from his prayers. A peace pauses his prayer as he get up and goes to serve the king, still with some trepidation and yet with an obvious confidence in the King of kings Who is for him.

"And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me" (2:8, esv).

Do I pour out my heart like this? Do I acknowledge my own sinfulness with that of the sins of my nation? Do I claim the promises God has spoken in His Word? Do I rise from prayer convinced God is for me? And do I see answers to prayer as "the good hand of my God...upon me"?

Mom Tips!

2008-08-30T06:27:00.000-07:00

DID YOU KNOW?

Peel a banana from the bottom and you won't have to pick the little 'stringythings' off it. That's how the primates do it.
Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave themconnected atstem, they ripen faster.
Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil.It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!
Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating.Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.
Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef, it will help pull thegrease away from the meat while cooking.
To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls ofsour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream; then beat them.
For a cool brownie treat, make brownies as directed. MeltAndes mints indouble broiler and pourover warm brownies. Let set for a wonderful mintyfrosting.
Leftover snickers bars (who has these? mine disappear too quickly to have leftovers, but i'd buy them for this) delicious dessert. Simply chop them with the food chopper. Peel, core and slice a few apples. Place themin a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes!!! Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream. Yummm!
Reheat Pizza: Heat leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove; set heat tomed-lowand heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I sawthis on the food channel and it really works.
Easy Deveiled Eggs: Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal; mash till they are all brokenup. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixingthoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy; squeeze mixture into egg. Just throwbag away when done - easy clean up.
Expanding Frosting: When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store, whip it with yourmixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size and get to frost morecake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per serving.
Reheating refrigerated bread: To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in a microwave next to a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.
Newspaper weeds away: Start putting torn newspaper in your plants, work the nutrients in yoursoil. Wet newspapers,put layers around the plants, overlapping as you go; cover with mulch andforget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic; they willnot get through wet newspapers.
Broken Glass: Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass youcan't see easily.
No More Mosquitoes: Place a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.
Squirrel Away! To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayennepepper. The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won'tcome near it.
Flexible vacuum: To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an emptypaper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent orflattened to get in narrow openings.
Measuring Cups: Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient (peanutbutter, honey, etc.) and watch how easily it comes right out.
Foggy Windshield? Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove boxof your car. When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!
Reopening envelope: If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include somethinginside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Viola! It unseals easily. (Don't tell the scammers. Eee!)
Conditioner: Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shavingcream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use upthe conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.
Goodbye Fruit Flies: To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2 with AppleCider Vinegarand 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those fliesdrawn to the cup and gone forever!
Get Rid of Ants: Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,'can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if itrains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or smallchildren being harmed!
INFO ABOUT CLOTHES DRYERS: The heating unit went out on my dryer! The gentleman that fixes thingsaround the house for us told us that he wanted to show us something and hewent over to the dryer and pulled out the lint filter. It was clean. (I always clean the lint from the filter after every load of clothes.) He tookthe filter over to the sink and ran hot water over it. The lint filter is made of a mesh material ... I'm sure you know what your dryer's lint filter looks like. Well ... the hot water just sat on top of the mesh! It didn't go through it at all! He told us that dryer sheets cause a film over that mesh- that's what burns out the heating unit.You can't see the film, but it's there. It's what is in the dryer sheets tomake your clothes soft and static free. You know how they can feel waxy whenyou take them out of the box ... well this stuff builds up on your clothesand on your lint screen. This is also what causes dryer units to potentiallyburn yourhouse down with it! He said the best way to keep your dryer working for avery long time (and to keep your electric bill lower) is to take that filterout and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush at least every six months.He said that increases the life of the dryer at least twice as long! How about that!?! Learn something new everyday! I certainly didn't know dryer sheets would dothat. So, I thought I'd share! NOTE: I went to my dryer and tested my screen by running water on it. The water ran through a little bit but mostly collected all the water in the mesh screen. I washed it with warm soapy water and a nylon brush and I had it done in 30 seconds. Then when I rinsed it ... the water ran right thru the screen! There wasn't any puddling at all! That repairman knew what he was talking about!

THANKS, MOM!

Hope

2008-08-24T05:35:00.000-07:00

One of the things that really has stood out to me as I've been reading through Job this time is the theme of hope.

Through everything he endured (not just the losses but also the condemning "counsel" or criticism of "friends"), Job clung to his belief/faith in God.

"Though He slay me, yet I will hope in Him!" (Job 13:15, NIV).

He could not comprehend, and yet his hope in God remained firm throughout. There's a song, "When God is Silent," that preaches, "When God is silent...then it's time to trust, yes, it's time to remember that our God is faithful to His own..."

We can cling to Who He is, even when we can't figure out why the One Who controls everything isn't stepping in to change the hard things going on in my life right now. He knows what's best. Is my Hope stayed on Him?

I hope that as you see me and as the Lord continues to challenge my faith in Him and as trials come that you will see this character strength of a hope that clings to God in me and that as I observe you in your walk with Him that I will see that quality too. If we can't hope in God, what else do we have?

Our God Reigns

2008-08-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

Job 41:11, NIV: "Who has a claim against Me that I must pay? Everything under heaven belongs to Me."

God's response to Job is one of authority and absolute sovereignty."He does whatever He pleases in heaven and on earth." Who am I to complain or question. He is God.

And our God reigns!

We have what Job only wished for!

2008-08-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

Genesis to Job. That's at least what my current Bible reading schedule says. I've been amazed again recently realizing all Job went through. 9:32-35 really popped out at me last night in the NIV:

32 "[God] is not a man like me that I might answer Him,
that we might confront each other in court.
33 If only there were someone to arbitrate between us,
to lay his hand upon us both,
34 someone to remove God's rod from me,
so that His terror would frighten me no more.
35 Then I would speak up without fear of Him,
but as it now stands with me, I cannot."

Do these verses strike you the way they did me? Job wished he could just go and talk with God face to face. He longed to be able to boldly approach Him. He longed for someone to mediate/go between and take the wrath of God... And Christ did it! Jesus Christ is that one Mediator between God and man who bore the wrath of God, dispelling it forever, and opened up the access whereby we may boldly approach the throne of grace and find mercy to help in time of need.

Ultimately God did speak with Job and led him through all his trials, but I can't help thinking if I really realize what a privilege it actually is for me to come before the God of heaven without fear of being destroyed. Wow! Thank You, Jesus, for all You've done! Help me not to be so half-hearted and apathetic about Your work. Help me to really realize how awesome a privilege is mine.

Where Job said, "I cannot," I now through Christ can say, "I can!"

Stuff

2008-08-04T06:50:00.000-07:00

I've been reading through Genesis recently and am at the part where Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and after acknowledging God's providential orchestration of his life and theirs, he asks them to go and bring their father and their families down to Egypt.

But I love how the Pharoah rejoices with Joseph in finding his family. He goes on to give some really good advice about materialistic affections: "Also do not look with regret or concern upon your goods, for the best of all the land of Egypt is yours" (Amplified, Genesis 45:20). (Click on the title to see Genesis 45, ESV.)

We too are on a journey to a Land of plenty! Why would I look with longing on the things of the earth here. I'm on pilgrimage. The stuff here serves its purpose here, but I must never forget that I am headed to a Country (Heaven) where "the best of all the Land" will be mine!

My prayer today is that the Lord would help me to "set [my] affections on things above, not on things on the earth" (Colossians 3:2, KJV).

Did not our Lord Jesus Christ tell us He was going to prepare a place for me? "The skies display his craftsmanship" (Psalm 19:1b, NLT). He is obviously an awesome Designer, so I can bank on the fact that the place He's preparing for me far out does the stuff I call mine here.

So as the ancient Pharoah advised Joseph's family: Let us "not look with regret or concern upon [our own material] goods, for the best of all the [Land] is [ours]" (Amplified, Genesis 45:20).

Missionary Fever

2008-07-30T06:55:00.000-07:00

It was the middle of the night. I couldn't sleep. I knew our four-year-old Micah's fever was really high. I moved him to the couch and planned to do ironing and listen to sermonaudio.com. But while I was checking him, he woke up. His fever registered at over 102F. Here's a transcript of our dialogue:

"Micah, what's the worst thing that could happen to you?"

"I guess I could die."

"Would that be really awful?"

"Well, people think it would be scary, but it's not scary really because then I'd go to heaven and see Jesus... and then you and Daddy would have to bury me in the back yard, or maybe in the front yard."

"Micah, what would you want people to remember about you?"

"Well, I would just want them to know Jesus. But really I just want to be a missionary like you and Daddy are going to be."

"Well, let's pray that the Lord would take away your fever so you can be a missionary."

We prayed and then watched as Micah's fever dropped to 101 and then continued to progress downward toward normal. When he came in about 2 a.m. and asked for "some toast, with peanut butter and jelly, please," I knew he was on the mend. By the next morning, Micah was as good as new, and we were both the better for how the Lord had worked in our hearts.

No Matter What!

2008-07-30T06:36:00.000-07:00

Bitter things made sweet. During a really challenging time, the Lord kept bringing me back to one particular psalm. It started out with just two verses–Psalm 104:27,28. I remember meditating on them day after day. If you were to have talked with me, you may have thought I needed to move on and study other passages. But that’s not always how it works. Sometimes you have to go deep before you can go wide.

Eventually when the Lord had cemented the truth into my mind and solidified them in my emotions, I did expand my exploration to the psalm as a whole, to get the context, and then on to other passages that correlated (fit together).

I never really intended this study to become a devotional. It seemed too personal.

But then I kept running into people that seemed to be hungry for the same feast our great God had set before me. How could I deny others the meat their souls longed for when it’s sitting right there on the plate in front of me? I couldn’t. God wouldn’t let me. And whereas it still amazes me how the Lord can use me and my pen, I know that in reality it’s His Words that are changing people.

This Word of God (Psalm 104) has changed my life and my attitude about Who God is and what He does, and because that is true, I know that He can use it to change others too. I hope as you study through Psalm 104 with me that first you’ll see the greatness of our God and then you’ll see your part in His awesome plan…that “No Matter What…you can rejoice”! And as the psalmist says, May our meditation be SWEET!

Sweet Stanza

2008-03-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

Last night we sang "God Moves in a Mysterious Way" with our church family. It comes from the Scottish psalter, music by William Cowper. The fourth stanza stuck out to me, especially in light of our baby Kali, whose name means rosebud and who never got to see the light of the sun here on earth, but who is blossoming quite beautifully we believe where there is no need for sun because the Light of God's presence shines there. (See "Rosebud Reflections" for more).

Here are the words:

"His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding ev'ry hour:
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flow'r!"

God is using each taste of bitterness to yield sweet beauty.

"I cry out to God Most High,
to God Who fulfills His purposes for me!" Psalm 57.2, ESV

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

2008-03-07T06:59:00.001-08:00

Micah wanted me to post this book. It's his favorite (along with the Focus on the Family's Radio Theatre unabridged recordings of this novel).

You will love Christian Birmingham's illustrustrations and the careful abridgement of the text.

Title is linked.

A 30-Day Walk with God in the Psalms

2008-03-07T06:25:00.000-08:00

(Click on the title to go directly to the Revive Our Hearts store. I'm sure you can find it other places online too, but the Revive Our Hearts is the ministry site of Nancy Leigh DeMoss and has other helpful things as well, so that's why I chose this link!)

My husband was marketing Christian products in the CBA and would bring home samples from time to time. When he brought this one home, I was thrilled. Our ladies at church were getting ready to use this book for the weekly Bible study time and I have liked what I've heard of Nancy's ministry.

For me, this devotional came at just the right time. I started the study on February 6, not knowing that later in the day I would find out that I was having a miscarriage. At times like those, it's so important to keep our eyes on Jesus and having a guide to walk through especially that beloved book of Psalms kept me in the Word and putting one foot in front of the other.

Each lesson follows the same, progressively deeper approach to the particular psalm: observation, followed by interpretation, and then finally application. The psalm closes with the reminder to pray, not only for yourself but also for someone the Lord would lay on your heart, then a hymn text, and place to record your "take-away thought" for the day.

There's nothing fancy about this study guide, really nothing you couldn't do on your own, but sometimes when trying to decide what to do next in your Bible reading when your world is already spinning because of crisis circumstances, a pre-laid plan is exactly what you need.

It's what I needed. And now I have a record of all those things God taught me as he carried me through the past month, and I am so thankful!

Easter In The Garden

2008-03-06T15:56:00.000-08:00

(Click on the title to find this book on Amazon.com.)

I originally picked up this book (by Pamela Kennedy) because of its beautiful illustrations (by David Wenzel) and because of the Easter theme. But when I opened the first page and saw the main character's name was Micah (my first son's name), I had to get it!

Micah has two concerns: that the eggs he has found in the garden will never hatch and that Jesus is dead and he will never see Him again. As the story unfolds, Micah watches the Roman soldiers march through the street. The family's faith is tested. There are tender moments with his mother, the practice of the Passover/Sabbath supper, and the revelation of the angel in the Garden. As Micah watches from his perch in the olive branches, he hears that Jesus is alive and then sees the eggs hatch. He runs home to tell the most exciting news...not that his birdies have hatched, but that Jesus is alive!!

A sweet book to discuss with your kids. One that you'll want to prompt reading comprehension with. I hope you'll enjoy it!

Rosebud Reflections

2008-03-06T15:05:00.000-08:00

No heartbeat. It was supposed to have been a routine obgyn check-up. I felt fine. I almost cancelled, in fact. But God in His sovereignty and kindness didn't allow me to do that. And even before the doctor looked at the ultrasound monitor to confirm the technician's findings, I knew the truth: There was no heartbeat. Our baby was gone. In that moment, as I lay on the medical table, my swollen belly smeared with gel, a quiet Voice echoed in my heart: "It's all right, Michelle. I have her, right here in My arms."

The next morning I sent out the following email to close family and friends:

Thursday, February 7, 2008

5.30a Subject: Prayer Request!

Dear Family and Friends,

Would you please pray for us today. Some of you may not have heard that we were expecting a new little baby in July. Before you get too excited for us, let me just continue the story. We found out yesterday that our baby passed away a couple of weeks ago in utero (14 wks gestation).

The miscarriage started naturally this morning and we were scheduled for "surgery" at 12:30, which we will continue as planned unless something progresses more rapidly, but I kind of hope it does. I would really like to have the miscarriage before the surgery.

The Lord has been so gracious to us to allow us to be prepared and last night I was able to talk extensively with (a friend who also recently had a miscarriage)....

We're both doing well and know God is in complete control. The verse I've claimed this year has been in Psalms: "God's lovingkindness lasts forever!" I know He loves us and I've seen in so many ways his gentleness. I'll share just one.

He graciously allowed me to go to my scheduled OBGYN appt yesterday. I almost cancelled b/c I've been feeling fine and just frankly wanted to save the out of pocket. I'm so glad I went. If I had started the miscarriage this morning and not gone yesterday and found out, I probably would've panicked. As it is, I was mentally prepared and can only thank God for that.

In God's sovereignty, my second devotional book went to press this week. The title? "No Matter What--you can rejoice!" That is my testimony now I think more than ever.

Here are my specific requests:

1. That "God grant me the serenity..." and keep my mind thinking things that are true and righteous.

2. That the baby miscarry naturally without any complications and that the procedure later today goes smoothly.

3. That the kids would be able to respond well. We have not told them yet, but Micah's the one who prayed for this baby in the first place, so it may be somewhat difficult. Thankfully, again, their friend's mommy just went through the same thing and so we have talked about how God sometimes brings babies home to be with Him when that's what's best for the baby.

I have never been more convinced of that in my life than I was immediately when they could not find the heartbeat with the ultrasound yesterday. God's grace blew in as powerfully as the gails outside were blowing yesterday, and with a calm serenity. Well, I'm going to go lie down for a while. But I do appreciate each of your prayers.

In His always loving care, with love, Alan and Michelle
***

Some dear friends kept the boys for the day, and by the time I came home from the hospital, my "inbox" was full of loving emails from friends who were praying. The following are subsequent email that I sent out letting those friends know how their prayers were answered:

***
February 7, 2008, 4.15p

Dear Family and Friends,

You all are so precious to me! Thank you so much for praying for us. I am home now and doing so much better than I could've imagined.

The Lord graciously allowed my water to break just as I was arriving at the hospital (10 am). I believe it was a direct answer to prayers and just a testimony of God's lovingkindnesses again for me that He allowed the miscarriage to occur naturally before the procedure.

The surgery went very well and everyone at the hospital (St. Francis Women's) was so loving and kind. I was asleep for the whole procedure and have had very little pain, etc.

Please, do not pity our circumstances. I know that the death of God's loved ones is precious to Him because He is welcoming them home to His arms. I know that my heavenly Father loves us and our little one and that He is watching over this precious little life that He created. I keep thinking, our child is right now praising Him perfectly. That is an amazing thought to me.

I have never felt more wrapped in His arms myself. He has been so gracious to answer our prayers so specifically and to give us so many loving friends.

We still have to tell the boys in just a little while when they come home and so we appreciate your prayers for them as they loved this baby quite a bit already. I know God will give them His grace too.

Well, I'm going to go lie down now, but I just wanted to say thank you. I am so thankful to be a part of God's family. I could tell so many of you were praying for me.

Again, please feel free to forward.

In His love,
Alan and Michelle and family

***
Friday, February 8, 2008, 6.46a

Dear Family and Friends,

Thank you once again for your prayers. We saw God answer each of the three original requests so sweetly! The final request was for our boys.

After a delicious pot roast prepared by my sister, the four of us sat on the rug in the living room for some family circle time. We started by singing their favorite song: Jesus Loves Me. I think it's worth refreshing some of the lines--

"Jesus loves me-- This I know for the Bible tells me so.
Little ones, to Him belong.
They are weak; but He is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me!!!..."

We talked about who little ones and to Whom they belong. Then we were able to tell them that our baby belongs to Jesus, etc. They had a few questions, but responded in true child-like faith. What an answer to prayer!

Later as they were rocking in the chair with Daddy, I came in and sat at their feet. We talked just a little more.

(As background to what's next, let me just say that Micah seems to have come to what we believe to be true faith and repentance. He at several times has talked about really wanting to go to heaven and see Jesus and we've told him that Jesus will call him home when he's done here on earth, but that since He hasn't yet, He still has more for him to do.)

So anyways, they were sitting there in the chair and we were talking about the baby being in heaven, and Micah said, "She's all done here on earth?"

"Yes, Micah." And as the next words came out of my own mouth their reality hit my heart: "Our baby did everything God wanted her to do. She accomplished her assignment and so God let him come home." (Though I can't remember the exact words, that was the gist.) And that thought so amazes me: how God can use an unborn child, so small, so innocent, for His glory and to accomplish His perfect work! Our baby completed her course!

I can not tell you how many people we were able to share our faith in God's sovereignty and love with as a result of this, and I'm sure that His work will only continue till He has accomplished all that He will do on this earth with each of us and call His beloved Bride home. There is a resurrection! And we are SO looking forward to that.

A few little things that have been so encouraging to us:
* Emails filled with love and Scripture from you all,
* Randy Alcorn's book called Heaven, and
* SoundForth's recording A Strong Tower,

* a phrase from the Wilds' recording My Son, Give Me Thine Heart: "to His Father's will conformed" speaking of Jesus at Calvary. (I've had this CD playing in the boys' room this week and the night we found out about the baby, this phrase just really stood out to me. What Jesus submitted Himself to for me was awesome and horrendous. This was definitely "not my will," but it was His, and to that we both conform and rejoice knowing His outcomes of even heart-wrenching events are for His glory and our good.)

Well, this is the end of our little email trilogy, but I wanted you to know how truly awed we are at the specific, individualized answers to prayer.

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable/pleasing in Your sight, O LORD--my Strength and my Redeemer." Psalm 19:14.

With love, Alan and Michelle and family
--
Our family verse: Psalm 48:14, "This God is our God forever and ever! He will be our guide even unto death!"

***
We found out that our baby was indeed a girl and that she had trisomy 18. (See www.trisomy18.org/ for info.) We wanted a beautiful name for our very special baby girl and decided on "Kali Grace." Kali (pronounced "kay-lee") means rosebud.

A rosebud--that's just what she was, our little rosebud. It was God's grace to her, His very kind and special grace, that brought her home to Himself just as she was beginning to bud. But she is very precious and beautiful to us and we believe she is a fragrant aroma in the nostrils of our wise and loving heavenly Father.

The verse I have claimed for Kali Grace is Psalm 71:6, "Upon You I have leaned from before my birth; You are He Who took me from my mother's womb. My praise is continually of You."

***

If you or someone you know is going or has gone through a miscarriage and would like to "talk" please feel free to email me: ps48.14fam@gmail.com. I will pray for you.