One Thing Spoken, Two Things Heard

How I Saw Eternity in 124 Days

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you have seen the video my cousins made in celebration of their sweet baby Jayden, who went home to be with the Lord after 124 days of life here on this earth. If you have not, please watch it first here before reading this post.

As I mentioned in that post, there are so many things I want to say about the experience of loving and losing Jayden. God gave him to our family for a short time, but for a great purpose. Part of Jayden's purpose was surely to change me. In honor of him, I want to share with you how God used this precious baby to do that.

Before Jayden was even born, he began to change me. During Christina's pregnancy, we were made aware of some concerns the doctors had about how Jayden was developing in utero. Each time a concern was raised, we prayed and God removed the issue. At the next sonogram, the concern would be gone! Through Jayden, I learned how to really pray-fervent, unceasing, faith filled and unselfish prayers. And because of him, I learned that God does still heal! I saw Him miraculously heal JJ not oncebut twice.

When Jayden was born and all seemed well, I wasoverjoyed! When I saw his preciousface in photos for the first time, the tears of thankfulness flowed. Even now, as I look back, I thank God my cousins had a month oftypical life with a newborn. I pray that God has engraved the sweetness of thattime on my cousins' hearts forever.

One afternoon, when JJ was about a month old, I got a phone call from Christina to letme know they were on their way to the hospital and to ask for prayer forJayden. Once again, it was time topersevere in prayer. Through theups and downs and the lack of answers from the doctors, Jayden taught me how topress on in prayer and to trust God with the result. His life forced me to put my faith in action. Do I really believe that with God allthings are possible? Do I reallybelieve that God’s plan is perfect?

When God made a way for my cousins to bring Jayden home and I was able to meet him, I felt such great thankfulness for the opportunity. Holding him for those brief momentswere a gift I will never forget nor take for granted. I will never forget his beautiful eyes, his round cheeks, hissweet smile and of course how he looked just like his daddy.

During my visit, my cousins held a beautiful prayer service for Jayden. I will never forget how they purposed to keepthe mood light yet prayerful and reverent. Their grace and peace spoke volumes to those of us lookingon- both believers and non-believers. As a believer, I was encouraged to see that God does indeed give specialgrace in our time of need. Andthose who don’t believe saw a faith that was real, and how God could be loved, honoredand glorified even as one walks through pain and fear.

When I got the phone call I had been praying against for solong, my heart broke. But Jayden’slife and my cousins' response to his life and his death, once again taught me. I learned, really learned, that life is a vapor. This is not just head knowledge for me anymore. Instead I feel that truth now with anache in my heart. My eyes havebeen opened to see that not one of us is promised tomorrow. I have had to experience what thatfeels like and to watch my loved ones suffer because of it. I have been forced to acknowledge how Ihave taken the precious gift of life for granted. I have been inspired to change that- to become one whoappreciates each moment of life- my own and my loved ones- as a gift.

My cousins' determination to honor God by celebrating Jayden’s lifedespite their pain was beautiful! Once again, I saw Him give them the special grace to do just that at JJ's Celebration of Life service. From the music they chose, to the wordsof the pastor, to the incredible video, to Christina’s unscripted appealonstage to all to come to know God, to the release of 124 balloons in celebration of his 124 days of life, they set the tone of celebration and faithin the midst of suffering and sorrow. They lifted God and His goodness above all else and, in doing so, set anexample for all of us who believe and planted a seed in the hearts of those who do not.

The truth is, I wish with everything in me, that Jaydenwas still with us. That our prayershad been answered differently and I could have rejoiced to watch him toddlingthrough my cousins' yard as we enjoyed our annual week together in the summer. I mourn with them,. I weep with them. But praise God that we do not grieve likethose who have no hope! We knowwhere JJ is- in the arms of our Jesus. And we know that he is healed and whole. We know that we will see him again- and this time it willnot be for a vapor but for eternity.

I don’t know how to do this. How to grieve a sweet little cousin. How to love my cousins well. How to minister at this time. I only know this. ThatI love my cousins and their family so very much. And that He loves them exceedingly and abundantly more than I ever could. So I simply trust that they will comethrough this stronger and more equipped to do His will. And I ask Him to give me what I need tobe there for them.

Thank you, Christina and Jason, for sharingJayden with me. I am foreverchanged because of him!

By Faith

2012-01-12T09:45:00.001-05:00

You may remember that last January I started the Bible in 90 Days challenge with my friend, Andrea. It was a wonderful experience, and one I hope to repeat in the future. However, in keeping with my mission of limiting as much pressure as possible from my daily schedule to focus on this first year of homeschooling, I decided to take on a less daunting but hopefully just as fulfilling task this January. While Andrea reads the Bible in 90 Days again, I am reading The Story in 90 Days. We started on Monday and are holding one another accountable for keeping up with our daily reading through regular texts and encouragement.

In case you are not familiar with The Story, it is basically a chronological compilation of all the major stories, prophecies, psalms and proverbs of the Bible. It does not include every scripture verse in the Bible, but all of the prose in The Story are word for word verses from the NIV Bible. The purpose of The Story is to tell the narrative of God and His people, making "the insistent claim that a loving God has sought you and provided a way of redemption- a way for you to enter a relationship with Him." (p. ix)

This morning as I began reading about Abraham, these verses really ministered to me and where I am in my faith journey right now:

"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God." Hebrews 11: 8-10

"Abram believed the LORD, and he credited it to him as righteousness." Genesis 15: 6

"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be." Romans 4:18

"Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." Romans 4: 20-21

Biblical faith is not mere head knowledge. It is not intellectual assent to the existence of God. After all, even the demons believe- and shudder! Biblical faith is obedience no matter the cost. It is going where you are called, even when you do not know where you are going. It is living as a nomad, never setting down immovable roots, so as to be ready to go when called at a moment's notice. It is believing with hopeful expectation in the promises of God, even when the circumstances look to be against all hope. It is unwavering. It is being fully persuaded in His power. It gives glory to God in the midst of pain, fear and confusion. It is looking forward to that city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.

Abraham and Sarah had reason to fear, but they had bigger faith. My cousins have sorrow and pain, but they have bigger faith. I have had times of fear, sorrow, confusion and pain. And I am learning to walk by bigger faith. A faith that is bigger than all these feelings. A faith that is hopeful, expectant, ready and willing, and glorifies God. A Biblical faith. As I journey, I am thankful for the examples of faith from the Word and from this life. And I am thankful for my God who is always FAITHFUL to nudge me along in my walk of faith, bringing me ever closer to that city with foundations.

The Story of Jayden

2012-01-04T13:51:00.000-05:00

I have many of my own thoughts and feelings about what I am posting here today but for now I'll let Christina and Jay tell the story in their own beautiful words:

If you have ever prayed for this sweet baby at my request, thank you! Will you continue to pray now for Christina, Jay, Alex and Mya?

Sowing in Tears

2011-11-30T23:32:00.000-05:00

"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy" Ps 126: 5

I've written here before about a very special baby. We have received some devastating news about his diagnosis and prognosis. We are sowing in tears right now. I am not free to share the names of the baby and my cousins but God knows. And if you would be willing to lift them up in prayer, I would be truly grateful.

My sweet friend, Mary, posted this song on her blog tonight. It so ministered to my broken heart this evening. Maybe it will to yours as well?

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 94

2011-11-27T08:50:00.000-05:00

Psalm 94

"When I said, “My foot is slipping,”
your love, O LORD, supported me.
When anxiety was great within me,
your consolation brought joy to my soul." Psalm 94: 18-19

This psalm is so full of truth. Choosing a verse or two on which to meditate and pray is difficult. It speaks of God, the avenger of all wrongs. It warns of the coming judgement of the evildoers who seem to be flourishing everywhere. It reminds that God sees, hears, knows all things and is still in control. It exhorts us to see His discipline as blessing. It demonstrates how God is our fortress and rock.

As I read and re-read this psalm, though, the words of verses 18 and 19 continued to jump out at me. Because, these words, I have lived. There are times when my foot is slipping and whatever I do, I cannot seem to regain my footing on my own. It is in those times, when His love has supported me. It is then when I am sure that I am caught in His grace. And when anxiety threatens to overwhelm my peace. When the circumstance of our life seem insurmountable, it is only His consolation given to me through His Word, that brings joy to my soul.

Lord, thank You for Your love that supports me and Your consolation that brings me joy. On this Thanksgiving weekend, I am thankful most for You. I am thankful for the fact that I have been restored to relationship with You. I am redeemed! And to that, You add innumerable blessings. Thank You, Lord! May I retain my gratitude and awe for You during this holiday season. Help us to keep You at the center of all our celebrations!

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 93

2011-11-21T06:45:00.001-05:00

Psalm 93

"Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,
mightier than the breakers of the sea—
the LORD on high is mighty." Psalm 93: 4

Mightier also than my wandering heart. And than my weak flesh. And than my broken promises. And than all the ways I fall short. The LORD on high is mighty.

Lord, thank You for this reminder of Who is in control. No matter what the season in my walk with You or in my relationships with loved ones or in the circumstances of life, You are mightier. I pray that You would revive me in my spirit, change me in the areas of my failings and work together for good those life circumstances that look bleak and scary. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 92

2011-11-18T07:05:00.001-05:00

Psalm 92

"It is good to praise the LORD
and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning
and your faithfulness at night," Psalm 92: 1-2 (emphasis mine)

I'm a slow learner. It is good- for me- to praise the Lord. When too much time goes by, I am lonely and empty. Nothing can give me what only He can- not more "me" time late into the night, not more sleep in the mornings, nothing. So why don't I learn?

Father, forgive me for forsaking our time together. I miss waking up to Your voice. I am dry and empty. And it impacts not only me, but everyone around me. Revive me, by Your Spirit. Give me self-control to get to bed on time and get up on time to meet with You. Thank You for Your grace. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 91

2011-11-14T06:34:00.001-05:00

Psalm 91

"If you make the Most High your dwelling—
even the LORD, who is my refuge—
then no harm will befall you,
no disaster will come near your tent." Psalm 91: 9-10

The only way I can see to make sense of these verses, this psalm, when I see Godly people suffering what appears to be harm, disaster, tragedy is to believe that He will use even these circumstances for good. As it turns out, a baby very dear to us continues to need a healing touch from the Lord. For the past two of his three months of life, he has been in and out of the hospital with frighteningly serious medical issues. My cousins are walking the road marked with suffering again- concern for their little one, being separated from their older two while in the hospital, severe sleep deprivation, pressures from work, and the list goes on. I have two choices: I can look at the situation and call it a disaster and wonder where God is or I can believe He is right there in the midst of it, allowing it and using for some good we cannot yet see. I choose the latter.

Father, we trust You. Amidst the pain and the exhaustion and the fear, we trust You. We put baby J in Your hands. Show Your glory, Your healing, Your power in His life. Strengthen his parents, physically and spiritually. Give us eyes to see and a heart to believe that You are working in this situation. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 90

2011-11-08T06:55:00.004-05:00

Psalm 90

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." Psalm 90: 14

Many things have been put on pause as we got started on Our Great Homeschool Experiment this fall. Most of these things were necessary and wise. At least one was not. I have neglected my morning Quiet Times in favor of 30 minutes more sleep for about a month now. I know that God is gracious and compassionate and I do not feel guilty. But I do feel lonely. I miss Him and the daily, intimate interaction we enjoyed. I miss the peace I received when I laid my burdens down at His feet each day. So, here I am again...

Lord, thank You for the strength to get up this morning and meet with You. Thank You for Your grace on all those days when I did not. Satisfy me in the morning with Your unfailing love, that I may sing for joy and be glad all my days! In Jesus's name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 89

2011-10-08T22:00:00.000-04:00

"Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne;
love and faithfulness go before you.
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you,
who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD." Psalm 89:14-15

There is One who does not change. When our circumstances change. When it feels like the rug has been pulled out from under us. When we suffer (or watch loved ones suffer) under tremendous stress or pain. There is One who does not change.

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne. Love and faithfulness go before Him. He who has started a good work will bring it to completion.

Those who have learned to acclaim this One are blessed. No one is born with a heart for God. We must learn to praise Him- in times of rejoicing and in times of sorrow.

Lord, I am watching loved ones learn how to acclaim You in times of suffering. I am praying for them as they learn to praise You in the midst of confusion and debilitating stress. I am thankful that in the midst of our suffering and confusion and stress, You never change. You remain righteous and just and loving and faithful. And ready to bless us and strengthen us as we learn to love You through our pain. Strengthen my loved ones who are reaching through the dark, through their pain for Your hand. In Jesus' name, amen.

Faithful Over a Few Things

2011-09-26T07:04:00.003-04:00

His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ Matthew 25: 21

This Sunday, our dear pastor and his lovely wife and son had some much deserved R & R. A brother from the fellowship delivered the message on Sunday. He taught on the Parable of the Talents from Matthew 25. It was a message I needed to hear.

Ever since we decided to homeschool, I purposed to put aside all my ministry roles outside of the home so that I could focus on homeschooling. For a season, I decided, I would pour all my gifts into my family and home. This decision was practical. It made sense. The only problem was that it just never felt right.

As wives and mothers, are our primary callings in the home? Yes! However, there are other needs (both within and outside of the Body of Christ) that each one of us may also be called to meet. I've always been convicted that we can never convince our families and neighbors of God's goodness and love if we never step back from our own (many) responsibilities as wife and mother to show them His love. I believe in stepping away to minister to others, we not only bless those who are outside our home but those inside it as well. It reminds our family- especially our children- that there are times when our own desires must be put aside for the needs of others.

God gave us our gifts to be a blessing. When we use them, it should not be a burden but a joy. The servants in this passage were entrusted with a gift from the master. When he returned to settle accounts with each, he expected that they had been not simply good stewards of the gift, protecting it from destruction. He expected that each had used the gift to bear fruit. It was only in those cases that the master uttered the words we all long to hear: "Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord."

I am not a preacher or a prophet. I'm not an evangelist or a teacher. I do however have a gift from the Lord. He has given me the analytical and organizational skills of administration. I can take what might seem like a dry and daunting task to others and break it into small, manageable parts and bring order to a situation. I have used my gift as secretary of our church, an event coordinator for our Women's Ministry, to organize rides and other help for a friend in need. Please know that I am not bringing glory to myself at all- God has entrusted me with this gift of administration and I want to use it to bring glory to Him alone!

Now that we are homeschooling, do I need to step back from some of these roles to pour my time and energy into this calling? Yes! Are there ways that I can still use my gift to bless others outside the home as well? Yes! God confirmed this to me in Sunday's message. There are opportunities to minister with my gift that He is bringing to me. When I know He is calling me outside the home to use my gift, I must follow.

I have heard Him already. It is a little thing He asking. I want to be faithful over it.

Linking up to Michelle's Hear it on Sunday, Use it on Monday meme:

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 88

2011-09-24T07:02:00.000-04:00

"O LORD, the God who saves me,
day and night I cry out before you.
May my prayer come before you;
turn your ear to my cry." Psalm 88: 1-2

And ends with these:

"You have taken my companions and loved ones from me;
the darkness is my closest friend." Psalm 88: 18

The entire psalm is an honest, heartbroken lament. A reverent "Where Are You, God?" There is no neat ending, no pious but empty praise here. Just a soul poured out before Him.

As I watch my friend walk a painful road without her loved one, I am grateful for this psalm. I am grateful to know that it is ok to lament. He is big enough to hear our pain and to listen to the depth of our despair. We do not have to hide it from Him, to try to pretend that we are ok when we are most definitely not.

Father, I thank You that You are big enough to handle our pain, grief and despair. That we can cry out honestly and lay bare our souls before You. I pray, Lord, that You do as You've promised and draw near to my friend who is brokenhearted and save her now as she is surely crushed in spirit. Help me to minister to her in the midst of her pain and despair. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 87

2011-09-22T10:18:00.001-04:00

The LORD will write in the register of the peoples:
“This one was born in Zion.” Psalm 87: 6

Feeling grateful this morning that for all my weaknesses and failures, I can know that my name is written in his register. It is recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life. Not because I deserve it. Not because of anything I have done. Simply because I was born again. When I believed the Truth about who I was and who He is and how I need Him, I was born in Zion. And no matter what evil I do or say, though I try each day to honor Him in word and deed, this assurance cannot be taken from me.

Father, thank You. Thank You for the indescribable gift of salvation and eternal life! May I walk worthy of Your calling in my life. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 86

2011-09-21T06:59:00.000-04:00

"Teach me your way, O LORD,
and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name." Psalm 86: 11

Oh, to have an undivided heart! In this day and in this culture where speed and multi-tasking are the goal, I have been a full participant. My heart is often divided. My life compartmentalized into neat little boxes and divided up into a daily to do list- Quiet Time at the top of this list with its own little box to check off. Is this what I want from this life? No! I want a life that flows from an undivided heart that is staid on Him and His plan for me. But a divided, compartmentalized walk is often what I see in my life. Only He can give me an undivided heart. I cannot conjure up this level of devotion to Him on my own. It is a gift from Him, so I pray...

Father, give me an undivided heart, one that always holds You in first place. Help me to allow my life to flow from a love for You. Show me how to be a good steward of my time without planning so much in my own strength that I make no room in my life for Your plan for me. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 85

2011-09-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

"Love and faithfulness meet together;
righteousness and peace kiss each other.
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth,
and righteousness looks down from heaven.
The LORD will indeed give what is good," Psalm 85: 10-12

On dark days like this one, when a shocked and grieving community gathers at a funeral home to comfort the family of a young husband and father whose life ended sooner than anyone might ever have imagined, I have to force myself to meditate on whatsoever is true. When friends congregate in the corners of a quiet room, eyes brimming and voices cracking to wonder aloud why God would allow this, I struggle to give a gentle defense. The truth- that God will work even this for the good of His children and His own glory- is not one that I can see with my human perspective.

And so I rely on faith- the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen- to get through these moments. And I pray that her faith is strong enough to endure this kind of pain, that He would stick closer than a brother to her and their two boys, that the community of believers who know them would be His hands and feet. And I remember that in this fallen world we will have trouble. But there is a day coming in which love and faithfulness and righteousness will be restored on earth. The broken will be made whole and the old, fallen earth will be made new.

Father, this is so hard. We are all in shock. My dear friend is so very sad. She needs You now more than ever. The boys need You. I need You. Help me to be a friend, a comfort, a help to this family. Use even this tragedy to strengthen her faith. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 84

2011-09-06T06:00:00.000-04:00

Psalm 84

"Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
   who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.
As they pass through the Valley of Baca,
   they make it a place of springs;
   the autumn rains also cover it with pools.
They go from strength to strength,
   till each appears before God in Zion.
Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty;
   listen to me, O God of Jacob." Psalm 84: 5-8

Our school community has been shocked and devastated by the sudden and unexpected loss of a husband and father. With mind and heart reeling, I am begging God to give strength to my friend as she endures this unspeakable grief and seeks to help her young boys navigate it as well. They have all endured so much as it is. I am fighting against the "why, God?" and trusting Him and His plan. I am praying for her relationship with Him that was growing through the weekly women's Bible study she and I attended together all last year. Asking him to strengthen our community to rally around this family. Will you join me in praying for this family?

"Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty;
listen to me, O God of Jacob."

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 83

2011-08-25T07:53:00.000-04:00

"Let them know that you, whose name is the LORD—
that you alone are the Most High over all the earth." Psalm 83: 18

We welcomed, this week, a new member into our extended family. A healthy baby boy. A joyous occasion for every family, of course. But for us, it spurred more than the usual fanfare. You see, this little one already has a testimony of God's healing power. One that started as he was being formed in his mother's womb.

The doctors made many frightening pronouncements over this baby in the womb- sending family members and friends to our knees in intercession for this babe. Each sonogram showed healing in one area but questions in another until my cousins bravely decided, "no more tests, we will simply trust God with this baby."

As I prayed for this little one, I often closed with the petition that He show His glory, His power, His healing in the life of this child. When I got the text early Saturday morning, that he was here and seemed completely healthy, chills covered my body and shouts of thanksgiving poured from my lips. It's five days later and many doctors and nurses have examined this baby and pronounced him healthy.

God has shown that He still is the Most High over all the earth. I pray now that the miracle He worked in this baby's life will serve to bring those who heard of it- doctors, nurses, unsaved friends and family members alike- into a saving knowledge of God. And that this little one will live out the rest of his days in awe of the God who formed him in his mother's womb and brought him forth as a testimony of His power, His faithfulness, His goodness.

Lord, thank You for this wonderful baby boy. Thank You for answering our hearts' cry for his healing. Thank You for showing Yourself mighty to those who don't know you through this circumstance. May the trials, the fear, the suffering my cousins endured as they waited for Your plan to unfold be used to encourage others and to glorify You. I pray for this baby that he will come to know you as his personal Savior at a young age and walk in the Truth all his life. And I pray for those who heard this amazing story, from the confounded medical professionals to our unsaved loved ones, that they would believe. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 82

2011-08-17T06:33:00.000-04:00

"Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless;
   maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed.
Rescue the weak and needy;
   deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
They know nothing, they understand nothing.
   They walk about in darkness;
   all the foundations of the earth are shaken." Psalm 82: 3-5

There are times in our history when truths like these seem more obvious than ever before. While millions suffer and perish in the Horn of Africa, pundits and self proclaimed experts work themselves into a frenzy over our economic woes. One has to search out a news story on one of the worst humanitarian crises in modern history but cannot escape the constant panic over the stock market plunges.

Yes, Lord, we know nothing. Our rulers and judges understand nothing. We are walking about in darkness while the foundations of the earth are shaken. I look forward to Your return when all the wrongs will be righted and this earth and everyone in it will receive Your righteous judgement and Your indescribable mercy. Come quickly, Lord Jesus! In Your name I pray, amen.

Multitude Monday

2011-08-15T19:05:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1351. A week-long wild celebration of God's unconditional love at Panda Mania VBS

1352. A beautiful VBS Finale presentation

1353. The privilege to serve at VBS

1354. Serving alongside joyful servants of God whom I call friends

1355. The opportunities my children have to learn about God and His Truth in a safe, appropriate and even fun way!

1356. Seeing the boys happily lend a helping hand when breaking down VBS

1357. An afternoon and evening spent at a local amusement park with family

1358. Our admission and dinner- all a treat by my dad
1359. All of us sleeping in on Saturday morning

1360. Serving together as a family to help friends move

1361. A peaceful Sunday afternoon spent with family after a wonderful yet busy week

1362. Remembering my mother-in-law through pictures and stories on the anniversary of her passing

1363. A day to plan and prep for our great homeschool experiment

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 81

2011-08-11T06:49:00.000-04:00

"Sing for joy to God our strength;
   shout aloud to the God of Jacob!
Begin the music, strike the tambourine,
   play the melodious harp and lyre.
Sound the ram’s horn at the New Moon,
   and when the moon is full, on the day of our Feast;
this is a decree for Israel,
   an ordinance of the God of Jacob." Psalm 81: 1-4

I love how joyful singing and shouting to God is a decree and an ordinance. I have been serving as the worship leader at VBS this week at our church and boy, have we been doing lots of singing and dancing and shouting aloud to the Lord! To see a sanctuary full of children, youth and adults all letting go of inhibitions and social norms to lift high the name of Jesus together just fills the heart to overflowing. It doesn't seem fair that I signed up to serve because I wanted to be used to bless the kids but He has seen fit to bless me so completely too as I serve.

Lord, thank You for the privilege of serving at VBS. It is a joy to live out Psalm 81 with the children- to bring you praise and honor with our singing, dancing, music and shouting. Go before us the rest of this week as we continue to bring Your Good News to these precious little souls. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 80

2011-08-10T06:57:00.000-04:00

Psalm 80

"Then we will not turn away from you;
   revive us, and we will call on your name.
Restore us, O LORD God Almighty;
   make your face shine upon us,
   that we may be saved." Psalm 80: 18-19

The summer, with all it days packed with outdoor fun that stretch into later bedtimes, is a time when I often struggle to stay spiritually awake. I am often so tired in the mornings that I hit snooze one too many times and sleep my Quiet Time away. Days turns into weeks and before I know it I have not sat before the Lord into too long. My soul runs dry.

Again, I purpose to get up early each morning and meet with Him. My prayers echo the psalmist from those thousands of years ago. Revive me, Lord, restore me. Sometimes the Enemy succeeds in getting me to swallow the lie that He is tired of my faithlessness and of this pattern in my walk. But He who is in me in greater than He who is in the world. And He reminds me of His GRACE and no matter that I am faithless, He is faithful. His grace and His faithfulness cover all my weakness and sin.

Father, thank You for Your grace, Your faithfulness and Your long-suffering toward me. Revive me and restore the intimacy of our relationship and my joy in You. In Jesus' name, amen.

Multitude Monday (on a Tuesday)

2011-08-09T06:57:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1336. A safe road trip with the kids to and from my cousin's home 6 hours away

1337. A week with my cousins and the kids with theirs

1338. An extended family I truly love and enjoy being around (and miss when we part)

1339. A pitstop at the National Baseball Hall of Fame on the way home

1340. Wide-eyed joy on little boys' faces

1341. A little girl who has fun wherever her big brothers drag her- even a baseball museum!

1342. Friends from church who blessed us with four great seats to a game of our favorite baseball team

1343. A stranger giving us his extra free parking pass at the stadium lot

1344. My sister and her daughter coming to have a special playdate with our girl while we went to the game

1345. Swim and a movie at the park with my sister, her daughter and the kids on a summer evening

1346. And plans to do it again next week

1347. Learning the songs and signs for VBS

1348. Setting up and decorating the church for PandaMania

1349. A great first day with a record number of 76 kids showing up

1350. Being blessed just as much- if not more- than the kids at VBS!

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Multitude Monday

2011-07-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1324. A slower paced week

1325. Time to read (The Hiding Place, Homeschool SuperMom...Not!)

1326. Time to blog

1327. A terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day

1328. Learning how to grill!

1329. Hosting a BBQ lunch and swim playdate here

1330. Air conditioning!!!

1331. 12 Years of Marriage

1332. Celebrating with a wonderful dinner out

1333. Time and space to talk with T

1334. My dad offering to babysit for our anniversary dinner when he heard we were having trouble finding a sitter (his first time babysitting for more than a quick errand!)

1335. A Saturday spent reading, puttering, napping and watching HGTV

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 79

2011-07-24T09:07:00.000-04:00

Psalm 79

"Why should the nations say,
   “Where is their God?”
Before our eyes, make known among the nations
   that you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants.
May the groans of the prisoners come before you;
   by the strength of your arm
   preserve those condemned to die." Psalm 79: 10-11

I just finished reading The Hiding Place. It was a difficult book to read but not only for the obvious reasons. It was a difficult book to read for me mainly because of how it challenged my faith at every turn. How would I have responded when the Gestapo came in the middle of the night and carted us all off to prison? As I watched my precious, elderly father treated like an animal? As I watched my sister slowly wither away and die in a Nazi concentration camp? As I lived for years in conditions that we would not allow animals to experience? And the questions in my mind continued.

It's one thing to understand the answers to these questions intellectually. It's another thing to walk in them, to live them out in suffering, to wait in hope for His deliverance, to trust Him at all times, to thank Him in all circumstances. I pray that I would respond to the kind of inhumane circumstances the ten Boom family withstood with the same kind of steadfast faith. I am certain that I would also cry out with the Psalmist for His mercy, His judgement, His vengence to come quickly. I'm thankful that both responses are acceptable in His sight.

Father, thank You for causing me to see more clearly what it looks like to endure inconceivable suffering with faith and grace. For challenging my weak faith. For reminding me how I need to pray now, in times of peace and calm in my life, for a faith that can endure hardship, suffering and pain for in this world we will have these things. At that same time, Lord, I ask for Your covering over my family and loved ones. Keep us from unnecessary suffering. Be close to us in times of distress. In Jesus' name, amen.

A Gift from His Heart

2011-07-22T06:00:00.002-04:00

*Forgive me if you subscribe to both of my blogs, you will see this post twice today. I wrote it for my new homeschooling blog but I realized it was appropriate to post here, too, as the content is mostly about how God is speaking to me in this season.*

As our book club was drawing to a close last Saturday morning, my sweet friend handed me a book entitled Homeschool Supermom...NOT! When Grace Meets Homeschooling by Susan Kemmerer. She said it was a gift (along with an iPhone arm band thingy I wanted for the Couch to 5 K madness she has gotten me wrapped up in, but that's another post entirely.) I thought it was such a kind gesture- don't you love it when you get a tangible blessing reminding you that someone is thinking of you?

Thursday afternoon, as the kids swam away the afternoon, I sat on our back patio and read Chapter 1 of Homeschool Supermom. And I quickly realized that the book was not just a gift from my friend's heart to mine but one that was also straight from His heart! Right from those first few pages, I could see that God was going to use this book to speak to me about several different thoughts/concerns I've been mulling over as of late.

Let me back up to Wednesday and explain. Wednesday was a bad day here. A terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. I'll spare you the details but by lunchtime I had yelled so much my voice was hoarse and the kids were wide eyed with alarm. By bedtime, I was ready to join in with the chorus of tears from my overtired kids. Late Wednesday night, lying awake in bed while the rest of the family slumbered, all I could think was "what was I thinking? How can I homeschool these children? Is it too late to call the school and get them signed up for next year? But what about all the money we've spent on homeschool materials?" Sleep was slow in coming, needless to say.

Today I read this in Homeschool Supermom:

"If you're feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, ashamed, and burnt out, keep this in mind: putting your kids back in school or hiring a maid might make life easier- for a time- but it will not ultimately make you happier or more righteous before God, nor will it accomplish the changes in your life and family that you really desire... Only a heart focused on Jesus and what He accomplished on the cross on our behalf will ever experience true, lasting joy- even when the house is a wreck and school remains undone."

That encouragement was like water to a dry soul. And there was plenty more encouragement and wisdom sprinkled throughout the short chapter.

And speaking of my dry soul, that leads me to the next reason I love this book already. Each chapter ends with questions to ponder and scriptures on which to meditate. Since summer began, bringing with it a new routine, my morning prayer/scripture time has become less regular and somewhat stale. Now I'm planning on using this feature of Homeschool Supermom in my morning Quiet Time and I am already feel excited about it again!

The last wonderful nugget I took away from Chapter 1 was actually a confirmation of concepts God has been teaching me lately. Remember that book club I mentioned at the start of this post? We had been reading and discussing Authentic Relationships: Discover the Lost Art of One Anothering by Wayne Jacobsen and Clay Jacobsen. One of the themes we discussed was how to be genuine, authentic, transparent in friendships- to allow people to see beyond the image into our real selves. A favorite quote from this book:

"Our fear of letting people see beyond the image we want to project denies us the friendships for which we hunger." Authentic Relationships

And from Homeschool Supermom:

"...behind closed doors, there lurks a secret. There's another side we seldom let anyone see. It's our messy homes and messy lives being worked out in the messy process of sanctification. It's called 'our humanity.'"

I was reminded this afternoon, that I want to be genuine and real. So many sweet friends have encouraged me already in this homeschool journey- sharing how they wish they could do it and how wonderful they think I am for doing this thing called homeschooling. But the truth is, I am not all that wonderful. I am not a Supermom by any stretch of the imagination. Exhibit A- Wednesday at my house. I'm simply a mom who feels led to give this homeschooling thing a try- willing to offer up my weaknesses as well as my gifts to God and see what He makes of it all. If we continue on this homeschool journey after a year, it will be only by His grace. If our journey ends after one year at home, that too then will be only by His grace.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 78

2011-07-20T07:23:00.001-04:00

"He remembered that they were but flesh,
a passing breeze that does not return." Psalm 78: 39

Lord, thank You for Your mercy. I am but flesh. For all my intentions and plans, I have dry seasons in my walk with You. In my daily existence, I sin against You and others. My Spirit is willing but my flesh in weak. And You remember this. You respond to my shortcomings and sin with love, grace, forgiveness. Your steadfast love and faithfulness is unchanging. It never runs dry. Thank You for who You are. In Jesus' name, amen.

Multitude Monday

2011-07-18T08:56:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1308. Coffee with a friend

1309. Listening to one another's joys and struggles

1310. Working together to present an opportunity to the church

1311. Movies with friends from church- Cars 2

1312. Pool playdate with church friends

1313. BBQ and softball game with church friends

1314. How the summer affords us so many opportunities to fellowship with church friends :)

1315. Planning for Book Club (we read and discussed Authentic Relationships)

1316. A fruitful discussion at Book Club

1317. The many authentic relationships He has blessed me with

1318. The desire to be more intentional, creative and bold in lightening others' load

1319. Beach playdate with friends who moved to another state

1320. Celebrating my niece's 4th birthday with a Glamour Princess party for the girls...

1321. And a pool playdate with the boys

1322. Attending what's become a yearly BBQ with friends from school- fun for the kids and the grown ups

1323. Seeing a row of empty boxes when I look at this week's calendar :)

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Linky Love

2011-07-13T06:00:00.005-04:00

Well, since it seems that an original post here is evading me these days, I thought I'd share some wonderful links from the past few months I've been meaning to tell you about:

A Prescription for Tired Moms: a beautiful post on a topic I've had to learn much about and be intentional about following through on.

Always Second Guessing: my bloggy friend Trisha makes a great case for knowing WHY we do what we do and holding confidently to it!

Parenting- Boys Fighting:  a well thought out and clearly articulated perspective on this touchy subject from a Christian dad. Forwarded this one to my hubby.

In All Circumstances:  I could relate to every last word of this post from my dear friend, Andrea.

On Tolerance, Intolerance and Absolute Truth:  The title says it all!

Winning in Purple:  Dawn knows how to craft beautiful stories and this one about her family's experience of repentance and redemption was no exception.

Fight For Joy:  If you've ever asked "Where is the joy in this?" or even "Where is God in this?"

Multitude Monday

2011-07-11T07:58:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1287. A relaxed Fourth of July at home

1288. The freedoms we enjoy in this country

1289. The men and women who gave their lives for our freedom

1290. The eternal freedom I have in Jesus

1291. Setting up the room for homeschool

1292. Organizing books and materials

1293. Finishing the curriculum ordering

1294. Advice from a friend on little things I can do now that will make the school year run more smoothly

1295. A fun week of morning basketball camp for the boys and dance camp for our daughter

1296. Hosting friends from school for a pool playdate

1297. Meeting friends from church at a county pool

1298. Joining friends at their home for a pool playdate

1299. Cheering Daddy on at a church softball league game with friends

1300. Recognizing that we need to slow down and spread out the fun a little

1301. Kids sleeping over at my parents

1302. Giving T and I time to do some much need yard work and house cleaning

1303. And the chance to go on a date

1304. Hosting friends after church for a BBQ

1305. Sweet fellowship for the parents

1306. Budding new friendships for the kids

1307. The quick and easy cleanup outdoor entertaining provides

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 77

2011-07-09T08:49:00.000-04:00

"Then I thought, “To this I will appeal:
   the years of the right hand of the Most High.”
I will remember the deeds of the LORD;
   yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.
I will meditate on all your works
   and consider all your mighty deeds." Psalm 77: 10-12

Yes, we can lament and grieve when we are confused, broken-hearted and feeling alone. In the verses above, He also gives us the cure for this suffering. So I keep counting and praying that I will remember the deeds of the Lord in times of pain and in doing so, allow Him to heal my heart.

Father, thank You for this psalm and for all Your instruction this week on how to navigate painful experiences and come out the other side of them stronger and firmly in Your hand. I ask that You would cement these truths in my mind and bring them to remembrance by Your Spirit when I need them. In Jesus; name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 76

2011-07-08T08:02:00.000-04:00

*Catching up on my Praying the Psalms meditations today.*

Psalm 76

"From heaven you pronounced judgment,
   and the land feared and was quiet—
when you, O God, rose up to judge,
   to save all the afflicted of the land.
                         Selah

Surely your wrath against men brings you praise,
   and the survivors of your wrath are restrained." Ps 76: 8-10

Sometimes it takes His judgment to quiet us; His wrath to make us see His power. Too often we rail against Him and His way; not even aware that we need Him to save us.

As I read this psalm this morning I was reminded of an incident with my daughter at the pool a few days ago. It was her first time riding on an inner tube on a lazy river. We were going to take this gentle ride together on a double tube. We got into the shallow water and walked out with the tube into a crowd of people at the start of the ride. As I lifted her on to the inner tube, she began to flail and squirm in panic. I almost dropped her in the water several times as I struggled to get her safely in the tube and out of the large crowd and flow of the river. The only choice I had was to be rough with her both in tone of voice and in physically getting her into the tube. If she had continued to squirm and fight me, she was likely going to slip through the tube and under the water. It was out of my love for her and concern for her well being that I reacted this way.

How often do I flail in panic at the circumstances of my own life? But aren't they designed for my good out of His love and concern for me? When the storm gets too big to fight any longer, that's when I am quieted- and saved. And I am learning to bring Him praise for everything He allows.

Father, I pray that You would help me to remember that even Your judgment and wrath are for my good- to quiet me, to save me from myself, to teach me how to glorify You in all things and at all times. Thank You for Your precious Word and for how You speak to me personally through it. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 75

2011-07-06T08:10:00.000-04:00

   "We give thanks to you, O God,
   we give thanks, for your Name is near;
   men tell of your wonderful deeds." Psalm 75: 1

Just about eighteen months ago, I made a decision to start counting His graces and give thanks for His daily gifts. It's been a wonderful journey. I've learned to slow down and see how He is working in my life- sometimes straining my eyes to see His daily graces and other times, not being able to write them down fast enough. Throughout the journey, though, I've wondered (maybe even worried a bit) about how I might respond in a devastating circumstance. Would I respond with the hard hallelujah as Ann calls it? Would I give thanks in the midst of pain and suffering, simply because I know His Name is near?

I do not know the answers to these questions. However, I do know this- in the process of counting His gifts, I am training my heart to recognize His hand more readily and filling my mind with a command that weaves its way through Scripture from Genesis to Revelation- "give thanks to the Lord." And so I trust that when trials come, this training will bear fruit, His Spirit will remind of the Truth and I will turn it all back to praise.

Father, I pray that You would continue to help me see Your graces in my life. Help me to remember to give You thanks in all circumstances. And when the trials of life rise up to swallow me, give me the strength to offer You that hard hallelujah. Thank You, Lord, for this day and for all the opportunities before me as a mother, wife and friend. Thank You for your love, mercy and faithfulness. Go before me this day, I pray, in Jesus' name, amen.

Multitude Monday

2011-07-04T07:48:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1273. Starting Couch to 5 K

1274. My oldest deciding he wants to "train" with me

1275. Great behavior and attitudes from the all the kids at the track 3 times a week

1276. Running with friends and family

1277. Finishing up my last week as church secretary

1278. So many kind comments from friends at church

1279. Finishing up my PTO commitment at school

1280. Our first international night at church

1281. Our children agreeing to make a presentation

1282. Yummy food from all over the world

1283. A week at the beach with lots of family

1284. Perfect weather every day

1285. My sister's large beach house and yard with room for all 15 of us

1286. Seven little cousins enjoying one another all week

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Busy, busy, busy!

2011-06-30T22:31:00.000-04:00

Please forgive me, dear friends! I have been so busy over here that I have not had the chance to post here :) I have a few posts mulling around in my head as well as the urge to catch up on Praying the Psalms and Multitude Mondays so I hope to be back to posting here early next week. In the meantime, please pop over to Our Great Homeschool Experiment and say hello!

Doh!

2011-06-25T22:34:00.000-04:00

Well, I just realized that I misspelled experiment in the blog address for our homeschooling blog. Oh the irony! I tried to just accept the typo and live with it but alas my perfectionism could not be satisfied. I changed the blog's URL and you can find it here. I apologize if you already bookmarked or subscribed to the other URL. Truth is you may be redirected automatically but since I'm not sure, I figured I'd better let you know where to find it. Thanks for your patience :)

Our Great Homeschool Experiment

2011-06-25T09:21:00.001-04:00

Several friends and family have asked us to keep them up to date on our year of homeschooling, which I've affectionately come to refer to as Our Great Homeschool Experiment :) I decided to start a separate blog to document our experiences with homeschooling. I'll probably still post some on homeschooling here as it will be such a big part of my life in the next year but I will leave the nitty gritty details of the journey over on the new blog. I'd love for your to follow our journey there so pop on over to Our Great Homeschool Adventure and drop a comment to let me know if you do!

B90Days

2011-06-22T22:55:00.000-04:00

Go here. Sign up now! You'll be so glad you did- trust me.

Summer Plans

2011-06-21T06:00:00.004-04:00

Summer vacation officially started this past Friday for us! Thursday was a half day and, to celebrate, we went to lunch with 25 of our closest friends from school at a local restaurant. On Friday, we met up with more school friends for a pick up baseball game and then went to the movies with the first graders and their teachers. On Saturday, we went to an End of the Year BBQ where many school friends and teachers were in attendance. On Monday, the boys each had a play date with a school friend so we have not had much time to miss anyone yet :)

In the midst of all our fun, I have had some more time to plan and prep for our summer learning adventure. In addition to our overview of Ancient Times using Story of the World, Volume 1, the boys will be working through this Baseball Unit Study by Amanda Bennett. To supplement both of these studies, I've filled two large bins with library books- one dedicated to history and literature based on Ancient Times and the other dedicated to America's favorite pastime. Our school has an Accelerated Reader program in which the students earned points each time they read, quizzed on and passed a quiz on a book. The boys really loved this program so I modified it for use at home and they are busy earning AR points here now. I even found a reading log for my four year old where she can color in a portion of a circle for every book read to her.

We are also starting a new Family Devotional for the summer. I must admit that I struggle to continue a consistent Family Devotion during the school year. We've tried doing it in the morning but that soon fades out as we are rushing to get out the door for school. We've tried it after dinner with daddy when he is home early enough but we forget more often than we remember. We have been pretty consistent in the summer though. And now that we will be homeschooling next year, I have made it a part of our school schedule so I hope it will become a habit for us. This summer we are using Child's Book of Character Building: Growing Up in God's World. The book focuses on 12 godly character qualities. We are doing one character quality a week- memorizing the corresponding scripture verse and pointing out to one another when we see that quality being displayed.

Our weekday schedule will look something like this- with lots of room for reading, swimming and other spontaneous summer activities:
8 a.m. Breakfast
9 a.m. Devotion and Story of the World
10 a.m. Outing/Play date
4 p.m. Baseball Unit Study

*The Amazon links above are affiliated with my Amazon Associates account and I earn credits at Amazon when purchases are made through those links!*

Multitude Monday

2011-06-20T07:27:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1254. Time to continue planning and prepping for Summer Learning

1255. Online Library system for searches and holds

1256. Access to so many great books

1257. Generous friends who host an End of Year party for our two grades each year

1258. Wonderful comments from the kids' teachers about their progress this year

1259. Beautiful year end scrapbooks and memory books and photo slideshows made by the kids

1260. A Mom's Night Out Year End Get-together

1261. Saying farewell to a school family who is moving after seven years in the school

1262. Winning our first baseball playoff game

1263. Last Day of School!

1264. Lunch out to celebrate with lots of friends from school

1265. Day 1 of Summer Vacation spent playing baseball with friends and going to the movies

1266. Day 2 at an End of the Year BBQ with friends

1267. Getting the house and yard ready for Father's Day guests

1268. A husband who is not afraid to work hard and get dirty

1269. Father's Day BBQ with family

1270. My dad, who has always been there for me, my sister and now my husband and children, too

1271. My husband, who loves our children with all his heart

1272. My Father in Heaven, who is my everything

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 74

2011-06-19T21:14:00.000-04:00

Psalm 74

"Your foes roared in the place where you met with us;
   they set up their standards as signs.
They behaved like men wielding axes
   to cut through a thicket of trees.
They smashed all the carved paneling
   with their axes and hatchets.
They burned your sanctuary to the ground;
   they defiled the dwelling place of your Name.
They said in their hearts, “We will crush them completely!”
   They burned every place where God was worshiped in the land." Psalm 74: 4-8

"The God of Israel is the God of nature. He that is faithful to his covenant about the day and the night, will never cast off those whom he has chosen. We have as much reason to expect affliction, as to expect night and winter. But we have no more reason to despair of the return of comfort, than to despair of day and summer. And in the world above we shall have no more changes." Matthew Henry Precise Commentary on the Bible, Psalm 74

These are hard words. God's people have often suffered bitterly. We can see this played out in Israel's history. And we too can expect pain, suffering and affliction in our lives in this fallen world. Jesus told us the same when He was with us.

In midst of our pain and our sorrow, we can cry out to Him honestly.

"How long will the enemy mock you, O God?
Will the foe revile your name forever?
Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand?
Take it from the folds of your garment and destroy them!" Psalm 74: 10-11

And we would do well for ourselves if we soon remember who He is, what He has done, what He can do and what He will do for us. We can lament, yes. We can weep bitterly. But when we return to who He is and grab hold of our eternal perspective, we receive His comfort and strength to bear the pain.

"But you, O God, are my king from of old;
   you bring salvation upon the earth.
It was you who split open the sea by your power;
   you broke the heads of the monster in the waters.
It was you who crushed the heads of Leviathan
   and gave him as food to the creatures of the desert.
It was you who opened up springs and streams;
   you dried up the ever flowing rivers.
The day is yours, and yours also the night;
   you established the sun and moon.
It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth;
   you made both summer and winter." Psalm 74: 12-17

Father, I pray for those in my circle of family and friends who are in the midst of suffering, pain, loneliness and despair today. You know each by name and love them with an indescribable love. I ask You Lord to hear their cries and laments. I pray that each would surrender their pain to You and receive Your comfort and strength. For myself, Lord, I pray You would continue to build me up in truths such as these so that when trouble rears it head again in my life, I will remember to give you my pain and sorrow and receive Your comfort and strength in return. In Jesus' name, amen.

Multitude Monday

2011-06-13T06:42:00.001-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1234. Our girl's Spring Concert

1235. Final PTO Board Meeting of the year
1236. Held at a lovely local restaurant
1237. The opportunity to work with a dedicated, bright group of women
1238. An unexpected chance to share my faith there

1239. Training my replacement for church secretary
1240. Looking forward to a summer without this work commitment

1241. A morning of fellowship with my Wednesday morning Bible study group- even though the study has ended

1242. Fun End of Year activities- Faculty vs Students Softball Game, Little Guy named Worker of the Week, Last Regular Season Baseball Games

1243. Slowing down but still plugging along on the Spring Cleaning goal

1244. Homeschool Conference
1245. Encouragement and inspiration for my soul and our homeschool

1246. My niece's dance recital

1247. Teaching Sunday School for the 4-5 year olds
1248. Seeing them understanding, remembering and having fun
1249. Gospel Light Sunday School curriculum

1250. A BBQ with neighborhood friends- new and old

1251. Christian music radio broadcasting for the first time in our city!

1252. I am more!
1253. How He loves me!!!

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 73

2011-06-11T06:58:00.000-04:00

"When I tried to understand all this,
it was oppressive to me
till I entered the sanctuary of God;
then I understood their final destiny." Psalm 73: 16-17

It is not until God opens our eyes that we understand the ways of the world. It is only in the sanctuary of God here on earth, the church, that the eternal perspective He gives us will be reinforced. If we look to the world for answers, we may be carefree and wealthy (verses 4-12) but at great cost- both to our hearts and to our relationship with our God (verses 21-22).

"But as for me, it is good to be near God.
I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge;
I will tell of all your deeds." Psalm 73: 28 (emphasis mine)

The psalmist has made the Sovereign Lord his refuge. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge. He is my protector, my counselor, the strength of my heart and my portion forever (verses 23-26). It is a decision- an act of my will- to keep my eyes off the world, to stay near the Lord, to nurture an eternal perspective- these are decisions I must make.

Lord, thank You for opening my eyes to the truth. Thank You for helping me to understand the final destiny of sinful man. Thank You for saving me from that destiny! Thank You for placing me in a church that holds fast to the truth and encourages the eternal perspective You gave me. Thank You for the free will You have given me. I pray I will always choose to be near You, to make You my refuge. In Jesus' name, amen.

Summer Learning is Fun!

2011-06-10T16:37:00.003-04:00

Remember last year when I was all organized about our summer plans and even wrote a series of sorts on the process of planning and our final result? This year- not so much! That's not to say I have not been planning. Oh yes, I have! But between planning for summer, planning and purchasing materials for our great home school experiment next year, wrapping up two large volunteer projects at school and training a new person to take over my job as church secretary, time (and energy) to blog has been scarce.

However, since I have a few moments right now before our final regular season Spring baseball game for our oldest, I thought I'd take the opportunity to share what I've planned out so far for the summer. Since we will be joining a group of friends in Year Two of Tapestry of Grace next year, a friend suggested we read through The Story of the World, Volume One: Ancient Times over the summer to get an overview of history prior to the Middle Ages. I devised the following plan from The Story of the World, Volume One: Ancient Times textbook and activity guide. Maybe this will help someone?

Week One Readings and Activities:

Day One

Read & Discuss Introduction

Complete Make a History of My Family Book

Day Two

Read & Discuss Chapter 1

Complete Map Work

Complete Make a Cave Painting

Day Three

Read Chapter 2

Complete Map Work

Day Four

Read & Discuss Chapter 3

Complete Map Work

Complete Make Cuneiform Tablets

Day Five

Read & Discuss Chapter 4

Complete Map Work

Complete Make a Chicken Mummy

Week One Field Trip- Egyptian Exhibits at Local Museum

Week Two Reading and Activities:

Day One

Read & Discuss Chapter 5

Complete Map Work

Complete Word Search

Day Two

Read & Discuss Chapter 6

Complete Map Work

Complete Activity Puzzle OR Comic Book

Day Three

Read & Discuss Chapter 7

Complete Map Work

Complete Make Your Own Law Code Stele

Day Four

Read & Discuss Chapter 8

Complete Map Work

Complete Art Project OR Writing Project

Day Five

Read & Discuss Chapter 9

Complete Map Work

Complete Craft Project OR Writing Project

Week Three Reading and Activities:

Day One

Read & Discuss Chapter 10

Complete Map Work

Complete Writing Project

Day Two

Read & Discuss Chapter 11

Complete Map Work

Complete Paper Bead Necklace

Day Three

Read & Discuss Chapter 12

Complete Map Work

Complete Make a Monkey Doll

Day Four

Read & Discuss Chapter 13

Complete Map Work

Complete Be an Archeologist

Day Five

Read & Discuss Chapter 14

Complete Map Work

Complete Moses Stickerbook

Week Three Field Trip

Tabernacle Reproduction Exhibit and Play- Joseph

Week Four Readings & Activities:

Day One

Read & Discuss Chapter 15

Complete Map Work

Day Two

Read & Discuss Chapter 16

Complete Map Work

Complete Make an Assyrian Siege Tower

Day Three

Read & Discuss Chapter 17

Complete Map Work

Complete Draw the Hanging Gardens of Babylon

Day Four

Read & Discuss Chapter 18

Complete Map Work

Complete Minotaur’s Maze OR Build Your Own Labyrinth

Day Five

Read & Discuss Chapter 19

Complete Map Work

Complete Make a Mycenaean Shield

Week Five Readings & Activities

Day One

Read & Discuss Chapter 20

Complete Map Work

Complete Write Your Name with Greek Letters

Day Two

Read and Discuss Chapter 21

Complete Map Work

Complete Play the Conquer Mesopotamia Game

Day Three

Read & Discuss Chapter 22

Complete Map Work

Complete Write on an Athenian Wax Tablet

Day Four

Read & Discuss Chapter 23

Complete Map Work

Complete Greek Gods and Goddesses Wordsearch

Day Five

Read & Discuss Chapter 24

Complete Map Work

Complete Play the Peloponnesian War Game

Week Five Field Trip

Have an Olympic Games OR the Greek Exhibit at Local Museum

Week Six

Day One

Read & Discuss Chapter 25

Complete Map Work

Complete Play the Alexander the Great Game

As you can see this plan only spans five weeks and a day. That works for us! We have a week at the beach planned in June and hope to escape for a long weekend here and there in July and August. The kids also have two weeks of half day camps in July. This plans leaves us with lots of breathing room for lazy days at the pool, a last minute get away with the family or whatever suits our fancy on any given day. It gives us a framework for learning that is flexible enough for summer fun!

I have more to plan and more to share about summer but I'd better get the kids fed before opening pitch :)

*The Amazon links above are affiliated with my Amazon Associates account and I earn credits at Amazon when purchases are made through those links!*

Multitude Monday

2011-06-06T06:50:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1228. Homeschool books arriving

1229. Feeling more excitement than trepidation about it

1230. The boys unwavering in their excitement about it

1231. AN IKEA run with two good friends to get bookshelves and a computer desk for homeschool

1232. Spending the day with my mom making Empanadas for the Fourth Grade class and lots of friends (and us, too!)

1233. My dad working in my garden while we worked in the kitchen

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 72

2011-06-05T09:39:00.000-04:00

"He will be like rain falling on a mown field,
like showers watering the earth." Psalm 72: 6

What a beautiful picture of the tenderness of Jesus! When all that is overgrown in my life is cut back to its appropriate place, my Jesus comes like rain to nourish and nurture me. To provide what is needed for growth.

"Praise be to his glorious name forever;
may the whole earth be filled with his glory.
Amen and Amen." Psalm 72: 19

Joining with the Psalmist this morning in a never ending song of praise to the One who cuts back the overgrowth and nourishes to make room for healthy growth.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 71

2011-06-02T06:30:00.001-04:00

Jenny is on a journey of praying her way through the Psalms. I was fortunate enough to join at the start. Each weekend, we pray through one psalm and post our prayer and/or meditations on that psalm as the Lord leads. Check out her journey and join us in Praying the Psalms.

Psalm 71

I was talking with a friend last night who is going through a difficult season emotionally. I told her I was sorry that she was still in the midst of this trial. Her reply? "Don't be sorry! This is nothing more than the purifying power of pain." She then proceeded to quote the promises of God that she is counting on at the other end of this trial and to praise Him for who He is. I had meant to encourage her but she instead encouraged me. She spoke the truth:

"Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter,
   you will restore my life again;
from the depths of the earth
   you will again bring me up.
You will increase my honor
   and comfort me once again." Ps 71: 20-21

Lord, when I walk through seasons of pain, troubling and bitter circumstances, help me to remember Your Truth. You allow these seasons, You even produce the circumstances at times, to refine us. And You promise to restore and honor and comfort us again. I want to praise You in and through and after the storms of life. Trials come and go. Happiness comes and goes. But, You. You, O God, are the one constant in my life. Give me eyes to see You in every circumstance. In Jesus' name, amen.

Multitude Monday

2011-06-01T06:27:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1216. Spring concerts at school
1217. Multi-cultural night at school
1218. More peace about our decision

1219. Safe travels on our weekend Road Trip
1220. Spending the weekend with sweet friends at Word of Life
1221. Being challenged to Keep the Fire Burning
1222. Learning about the Bible Institute
1223. Meeting young people who are serious about their faith
1224. So many fun family activities
1225. A day to catch up when we returned

1226. Listening for Him
1227. Meditating on Isaiah 50

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Multitude Monday

2011-05-23T11:23:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things I was thankful for this week:

1201. Lots of rain- washing away the pollen
1202. And making green grass grow in our yard

1203. Seeing our oldest son's prayer life continue to mature
1204. Seeing his little brother's prayer life grow, too, as he emulates his big brother

1205. Husband getting to and from Hawaii safely (nice business trip, huh?)
1206. Parents willing and able to help me manage some scheduling conflict while husband was away

1207. Spring cleaning progress- playroom and home office/homework room done

1208. Free Ice Cream Cone Day at our favorite ice cream shoppe

1209. Being the Mystery Reader in our first grader's class- sharing this family favorite with his class

1210. Leading a successful PTO project for the school

1211. A morning of fellowship with moms from my Wednesday morning Bible study

1212. Rain holding off while we enjoyed our daughter's outdoor field trip

1213. Celebrating our boys' accomplishments at the Awana closing ceremony

1214. A fun girly weekend at the beach for our daughter with my sister at her family

1215. A beautiful day at the baseball fields

You can read why I got started counting the gifts here.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 70

2011-05-22T08:29:00.000-04:00

"But may all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you;
may those who love your salvation always say,
“Let God be exalted!” Psalm 70: 4

I struggle to balance growing in Christ with resting in Him. I can easily see where I am falling short in this life and be disappointed in the slowness or lack of progress in my areas of weakness. Then, I am great about making a plan for change and growth. Sometimes, I will see the change and growth I was hoping for- to God's glory! But often, I do not. And I struggle with that because the sins I want to have victory over are certainly things God wants to change in me. And I do truly seek God's strength to change, using His Word as a guide and His saints as partners in prayer and accountability. So often, I am left perplexed- I know God would want this change, I am seeking Him for the change, why then, in the end, do things stay the same?

I wish I knew the answer. I think I understand pieces of it. Lately, though, God has been exhorting me to lay aside my agenda for change. To forget the carefully laid plans I have for freedom and simply come to Him to rejoice and be glad in Him. To come and receive soul satisfacion. I'm trying but old habits die hard. But perhaps this is true freedom? Knowing that despite the wretched woman I am, I am loved by God. I am not defined by my sin or my struggle but by Him who lives in me and whose blood has covered my stain. And because of this, I can rejoice and be glad!

Father, thank You for reminding me that the ultimate goal of this life is to find my soul's satisfaction in You, to rejoice and be glad in You. Help me to lay aside my own agenda and walk in the freedom You have already bought for me. Give me joy in this journey! In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying the Psalms- Psalm 69

2011-05-22T07:55:00.000-04:00

Psalm 69

"But I pray to you, O LORD,
in the time of your favor;
in your great love, O God,
answer me with your sure salvation." Psalm 69: 13

These are words that are easier to say than to live. Waiting for Him to answer in the time of His favor and according to His great love is difficult. I might think I trust God's timing and wisdom but there are times when truthfully I wonder why everything is not going according to my own plan, my hopes, my dreams.

This is a truth I have had to explain to my ten-year-old lately as he questions why God did not answer his prayer the way he wanted, at the time he wanted. I've given him the best solid answers I can, with examples from his own life of waiting on God and receiving a blessing later, but in the end it is something he has to wrestle through with God. Something we all have to wrestle through, no? In the end it comes down to faith- do I believe that God is good regardless of my circumstances? And also, trust- am I willing to endure this circumstance, trusting that He works all things together for good?

Father, give us faith to believe You are good, You are loving, You are wise, You are working in our lives at all times. Give us hearts that trust that You will answer in the time of Your favor and in Your great love- hearts that trust in Your timing and love. Help me to come alongside my son as he wrestles through these truths with You. In Jesus' name, amen.

Somebody Stop This Ride...

2011-05-16T16:51:00.000-04:00

I wanna get off!!!

Bloggy friends, I've missed you! I always forget how crazy Spring is for us. Both boys have birthdays. Spring baseball starts. School is winding down which means that end of year after-school events are winding up. Since we made our big decision to homeschool next year, I have spent much of my free time researching curriculum. And, for some unfathomable reason, I have had this drive to spring clean. I mean really spring clean. Like under the beds and in the attic, spring clean!

All this has left me little time to blog :( I have so much I want to share here. I have so much to catch up on on your blogs! All this to say, I am not sure when I will have the time to do these things. Hopefully a few days, a week? Maybe a few weeks??? I hope not!

Either way, just wanted to pop into this space to say hello :)