Friday, October 31, 2008

Compassion

You'll see that I've recently added a button thing-y (like that?) to my sidebar for Compassion International. We have been so blessed by this ministry and the opportunity to help a child that is so far away. Compassion really loves these kids and provides so much for them. Things like: food, clothing, and school. But to me, the most important part of this ministry is that they whole-heartedly share the gospel of Jesus Christ with them. What good are any of the things above, if in the end, you are still lost.

Our family has sponsored a girl, Julisa, for about 2 1/2 years. She lives in Mexico and is now 8 years old. Our church has sponsored a boy, Kepher, in Tanzania, Africa for about 4 years. How awesome it has been to see him grow.
So, please take a moment to pray for these two beautiful children and then ask the Lord if sponsoring a child is the direction He has for you. If you feel a tug, visit Compassion's Website. You will be blessed!

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Twig & Feather


I couldn't wait to tell you about a new website just for us women who love the home! Please check out Twig & Feather and tell your friends about it.

Created by someone that I think is a dear along with a few of her friends, be sure to check back often as it is in its beginning stages. Be encouraged, take away tidbits, and share what you know.

Hope to see you there!


Wednesday, October 29, 2008

One of Those Moments


I know you've had them. That moment when you are beside yourself as you come to some kind of deeper realization. You're almost left breathless and filled with wonder. Okay, there's probably that momentary thought of, "Duh! Why didn't I see that before?" But it's fleeting in comparison.


Last night, I had such a moment while leading our women's bible study. We were reviewing an introduction to the book of Daniel. As I was sharing, I talked about Daniel having the Spirit of God living in him and that this was known by others around him. I mentioned that it's the same Spirit living in us as did Daniel and other mighty men of the bible. As the words are coming out of my mouth, I'm simultaneously realizing the impact of this! It was as if I were split in two, one half talking to the ladies and the other secretly experiencing this truth in a new way. Goose bumps! I pray that I was able to convey the importance and excitement in realizing we have the same power of the Spirit of God in us that was in Daniel as he stood before a king that would be happy to lop his head off and faced the lions!


So praise be to God in heaven who knows when we most need one of those moments!


Sunday, October 26, 2008

Koinonia


Sunday. We all love the word. Sunday drives. Sunday dinners. Sunday picnics. Sunday papers. Sunday schools. It evokes all that is familiar and comfortable. Whether you attend church or not, Sunday is a day most of us treasure.


My Sunday often starts off a bit crazy. The building that we hold our church services in usually needs to be cleaned after a raucous party by renters the evening before. Depending on the size of the party, I rise between 5 and 6 a.m. Then throw in set-up for church. I'll admit, it can be exhausting. But in spite of this, I still look forward to the day. I run home for cleanup (easy since we live next door!) and head back to begin greeting saintly old friends and whatever new friends the Lord sends our way.


Before long, we settle into our seats. The music starts and we set aside the world to spend time in the presence of our heavenly Father. Now we're primed and ready for our feast of the Word. Rustling of pages, sound of pens scribbling, maybe a baby in the background. Heads nod in agreement, faces grimace as the Lord gently corrects. One last song and the fellowship begins again. Laughter, tears, and prayers are shared. Bliss.


But on one Sunday a month, we're blessed with even more! Potluck! (or Pot-faith as some parishoners like to say.) Wow! Now we get good food and more laughter, story sharing, and relationship building. Our cup overfloweth. Thank you, Lord.


The rest of the day is spent relaxing at home. Great day.


Your turn! Share your Sunday!