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| "I look like Shawn the Sheep" |
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| Shawn the Sheep |
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
The Whole Armor of God
Brett and Brian have spent the evening making armor, that the gospel may be declared boldly to a group of kids at Vacation Bible School this week. 40 of those kids accepted Christ today. Pray for them as they continue the battle, and take the message forward.
My favorite song on the fourth grade, from the Bible School I went to was Onward Christian Soldiers: 1. Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before. Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe; forward into battle see his banners go! Refrain: Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before. 2. At the sign of triumph Satan's host doth flee; on then, Christian soldiers, on to victory! Hell's foundations quiver at the shout of praise; brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise. (Refrain) 3. Like a mighty army moves the church of God; brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod. We are not divided, all one body we, one in hope and doctrine, one in charity. (Refrain) 4. Crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane, but the church of Jesus constant will remain. Gates of hell can never gainst that church prevail; we have Christ's own promise, and that cannot fail. (Refrain) 5. Onward then, ye people, join our happy throng, blend with ours your voices in the triumph song. Glory, laud, and honor unto Christ the King, this through countless ages men and angels sing. (Refrain)
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Take a Break - Guilt Free
Mark 2:27 caught my eye today.
23 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. 24 The Pharisees said to him, "Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?" 25 He answered, "Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? 26 In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions." 27 Then he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath."
I think the Sabbath is God's gift to us - permission to rest - not another thing to feel guilty about or nitpick. The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. That's cool. I think the best way to honor that gift (honor the Sabbath) is to accept it, enjoy it, and appreciate it.
23 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. 24 The Pharisees said to him, "Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?" 25 He answered, "Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? 26 In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions." 27 Then he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath."
I think the Sabbath is God's gift to us - permission to rest - not another thing to feel guilty about or nitpick. The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. That's cool. I think the best way to honor that gift (honor the Sabbath) is to accept it, enjoy it, and appreciate it.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
A Dozen Three Sixteens
Joel 3:16 The Lord roars from Zion, and utters his voice from Jerusalem, and the heavens and the earth quake. But the Lord is a refuge to his people, a stronghold to the people of Israel.
Malachi 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord spoke with one another. The Lord paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the Lord and esteemed his name.
Matthew 3:16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him;
Luke 3:16 John answered them all, saying, "I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire."
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."
I Corinthians 3:16 Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's spirit dwells in you?
Ephesians 3:16 according to the riches of glory he may grant you to be strenghtened with power through his Spirit in your inner being
Philippians 3:16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained.
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
I Timothy 3:16 Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
I John 3:16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
Revelation 3:16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.
Malachi 3:16 Then those who feared the Lord spoke with one another. The Lord paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the Lord and esteemed his name.
Matthew 3:16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him;
Luke 3:16 John answered them all, saying, "I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire."
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."
I Corinthians 3:16 Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's spirit dwells in you?
Ephesians 3:16 according to the riches of glory he may grant you to be strenghtened with power through his Spirit in your inner being
Philippians 3:16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained.
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
I Timothy 3:16 Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
I John 3:16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
Revelation 3:16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
My Temple
I Corinthians 3:16 - 17 "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple."
I have not been treating my body as a temple, or anything close. Through the years I've gotten less active and gradually gained more and more weight, mostly in my stomach (the classic 'apple' shape that leads to heart attacks.) My cholesterol has been up to 410 with triglycerides of 800+. So I went on medication. Gradually my doctor has added more meds to counteract my bad habits.
I decided to do something about it, so my husband took this lovely 'before' picture in October of 2009:
It turns out I was 'interested' in losing weight, but not 'committed'. I used the treadmill a few times, then continued to put on the pounds and hang out on my couch, playing computer games. Fortunately for everyone, I did not take another 'before' picture when I was at my peak.
Then, my 'gem' of a friend came along with some encouragement. She said she was taking Zumba class and we should join her. Along with another friend, I did just that at the beginning of November.
I'm loving Zumba. It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be and its lots of fun. I know I look ridiculous doing Latin dance moves, but I've decided not to care about that. Almost immediately I started to feel more energetic. I even tried working out on some machines when class was cancelled for the holidays.
My company ran a campaign to get us to eat more fruits and vegetables (strive for five) and I dove in, again with support from my friends. Next Gem mentioned that she was joining Weight Watchers. They have a new program, and I was welcome to come along. So I did that in early December and I have been very impressed with that program.
So far so good. I've lost 15 pounds and my clothes are starting to fit again.
Perhaps I got too cocky. Seemed too simple. So when the company sent out a flyer advertising a 7-week training program for a a 5-K in early May I gave it some thought. Run, jog or walk, they promise I will cross the finish line. This time I brought it up. Gem is in if I'm in. I posted it in my FaceBook status - committed. Should be committed, I think.
The class starts next week, so I decided to try a little jogging today. How hard can it be after Zumba? I needed to go to the bank anyway - less than a half a mile from my house. I put on my jogging garb. Stretched a little. Got outside and jogged past my neighbor's house. It felt weird. I'm not sure how to move anymore. I walked the next block briskly. Okay, I can do this. Broke out into another awkward jog. My stomach bounces up and down. I've got a sports bra, but no sports belt (do they make those?) I finish the block and walk again, huffing and puffing. Someone drives by and waves. I can't figure out who it is (sorry!) but I wave back. Two more people smile and wave. I'm starting to wonder if I look funny or what. On the way back, I jogged some more. Another block, but it was a long block. I was starting to wish I'd worn less clothes, but then realized that bulky sweatshirt was the only thing hiding my bouncing belly. It took another block to catch my breath.
What have I gotten myself into?!?
I have not been treating my body as a temple, or anything close. Through the years I've gotten less active and gradually gained more and more weight, mostly in my stomach (the classic 'apple' shape that leads to heart attacks.) My cholesterol has been up to 410 with triglycerides of 800+. So I went on medication. Gradually my doctor has added more meds to counteract my bad habits.
I decided to do something about it, so my husband took this lovely 'before' picture in October of 2009:
Then, my 'gem' of a friend came along with some encouragement. She said she was taking Zumba class and we should join her. Along with another friend, I did just that at the beginning of November.
I'm loving Zumba. It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be and its lots of fun. I know I look ridiculous doing Latin dance moves, but I've decided not to care about that. Almost immediately I started to feel more energetic. I even tried working out on some machines when class was cancelled for the holidays.
My company ran a campaign to get us to eat more fruits and vegetables (strive for five) and I dove in, again with support from my friends. Next Gem mentioned that she was joining Weight Watchers. They have a new program, and I was welcome to come along. So I did that in early December and I have been very impressed with that program.
So far so good. I've lost 15 pounds and my clothes are starting to fit again.
Perhaps I got too cocky. Seemed too simple. So when the company sent out a flyer advertising a 7-week training program for a a 5-K in early May I gave it some thought. Run, jog or walk, they promise I will cross the finish line. This time I brought it up. Gem is in if I'm in. I posted it in my FaceBook status - committed. Should be committed, I think.
The class starts next week, so I decided to try a little jogging today. How hard can it be after Zumba? I needed to go to the bank anyway - less than a half a mile from my house. I put on my jogging garb. Stretched a little. Got outside and jogged past my neighbor's house. It felt weird. I'm not sure how to move anymore. I walked the next block briskly. Okay, I can do this. Broke out into another awkward jog. My stomach bounces up and down. I've got a sports bra, but no sports belt (do they make those?) I finish the block and walk again, huffing and puffing. Someone drives by and waves. I can't figure out who it is (sorry!) but I wave back. Two more people smile and wave. I'm starting to wonder if I look funny or what. On the way back, I jogged some more. Another block, but it was a long block. I was starting to wish I'd worn less clothes, but then realized that bulky sweatshirt was the only thing hiding my bouncing belly. It took another block to catch my breath.
What have I gotten myself into?!?
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
The quilt
I love having grandchildren. My grandson, Ryott, turned one this week. I started knitting a blanket on the day he was born and I finished it this week. It's got a lot of flaws, but I'm still happy to have made it myself and to know that he will sleep with it. Here are a few pictures:
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| Trying it out on Norah's toddler bed |
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| A white house |
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| The truck |
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| Sailboat |
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| A fish |
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| Crocheted border - thanks to Reagan for teaching me how to do it |
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| A tree |
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| Imperfect joining of the squares |
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| Tufts on the backside |
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Simply Surrender
I'm ready to be broken before the Lord. I want to go public with my new commitment to surrender my finances to God. I've been thinking about it for a long time, and this week's message at church helped cement my commitment to 'Simply Surrender'.
I've been working for many years to grow closer to the Lord. Bit by bit he is helping me to do that, showing me what I need to do - like the analogy in John 15:1-2 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
A few years ago I watched a Rob Bell Nooma video called Kickball (http://nooma.com/nooma-kickball-006-rob-bell.php). It really made me think - do I really believe that God is good and has my best interests at heart? If I do, then why don't I trust him - why do I go to Visa and lines of credit instead of waiting for his provision? It took me a few years to work through that one. My head said 'trust', but I really didn't want to give up control over my spending.
A days ago I was struck by Luke 16: 9-13
"9 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends by means of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when it shall fail, they may receive you into the eternal tabernacles. 10 He that is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much: and he that is unrighteous in a very little is unrighteous also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true [riches]? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon."
Mammon is not a word I use every day. It's money and material things. When I go to Kohl's to buy clothes to cheer me up instead of going to God, I am serving mammon. So my new mantra is "God or mammon? Need or greed?" I'm going to pray about my spending, stop the rationalizing, stick to shopping lists (list or lost) and rely on close friends and family to hold me accountable. It's already difficult, but it's been a pretty good week. I'll keep you posted.
I'll close the passage we studied in church this week - very applicable message about brokenness - very encouraging words - Isaiah 40:25 - 31
"25 "To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal?" asks the Holy One. 26 Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out one after another, calling each by its name. And he counts them to see that none are lost or have strayed away. 27 O Israel, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? How can you say God refuses to hear your case? 28 Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. 29 He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. 30 Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. 31 But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. "
I've been working for many years to grow closer to the Lord. Bit by bit he is helping me to do that, showing me what I need to do - like the analogy in John 15:1-2 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
A few years ago I watched a Rob Bell Nooma video called Kickball (http://nooma.com/nooma-kickball-006-rob-bell.php). It really made me think - do I really believe that God is good and has my best interests at heart? If I do, then why don't I trust him - why do I go to Visa and lines of credit instead of waiting for his provision? It took me a few years to work through that one. My head said 'trust', but I really didn't want to give up control over my spending.
A days ago I was struck by Luke 16: 9-13
"9 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends by means of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when it shall fail, they may receive you into the eternal tabernacles. 10 He that is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much: and he that is unrighteous in a very little is unrighteous also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true [riches]? 12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon."
Mammon is not a word I use every day. It's money and material things. When I go to Kohl's to buy clothes to cheer me up instead of going to God, I am serving mammon. So my new mantra is "God or mammon? Need or greed?" I'm going to pray about my spending, stop the rationalizing, stick to shopping lists (list or lost) and rely on close friends and family to hold me accountable. It's already difficult, but it's been a pretty good week. I'll keep you posted.
I'll close the passage we studied in church this week - very applicable message about brokenness - very encouraging words - Isaiah 40:25 - 31
"25 "To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal?" asks the Holy One. 26 Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out one after another, calling each by its name. And he counts them to see that none are lost or have strayed away. 27 O Israel, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? How can you say God refuses to hear your case? 28 Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. 29 He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. 30 Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. 31 But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. "
Basket Weaving 101
I love to create. God does too - Isaiah 45:18 says "For this is what the LORD says-- he who created the heavens, he is God; he who fashioned and made the earth, he founded it; he did not create it to be empty, but formed it to be inhabited-- he says: "I am the LORD, and there is no other. "
Yesterday and today I had the opportunity to fashion some baskets, joining a long, long tradition. Wikipedia says basket weaving is one of the widest spread crafts in the history of any human civilization. It is hard to say just how old the craft is because natural materials decay naturally and constantly... much of the history of basket making has been lost and is simply speculated upon. There are many references to baskets in the bible, beginning in Genesis. I like the idea of being a part of that.
I have always known that I would make a basket some day. Yesterday my friend Debbie showed me how. The kits she got for Kari and I had a lot of extra pieces, so I shared them with my DIL (daughter-in-law) Reagan - I taught her while reinforcing the techniques in my own head. I like the way it feels to bend and shape the softened reeds. It made me wonder if that's how God feels when I begin to soften and bend to his will so he can shape me into something better.
Yesterday and today I had the opportunity to fashion some baskets, joining a long, long tradition. Wikipedia says basket weaving is one of the widest spread crafts in the history of any human civilization. It is hard to say just how old the craft is because natural materials decay naturally and constantly... much of the history of basket making has been lost and is simply speculated upon. There are many references to baskets in the bible, beginning in Genesis. I like the idea of being a part of that.
I have always known that I would make a basket some day. Yesterday my friend Debbie showed me how. The kits she got for Kari and I had a lot of extra pieces, so I shared them with my DIL (daughter-in-law) Reagan - I taught her while reinforcing the techniques in my own head. I like the way it feels to bend and shape the softened reeds. It made me wonder if that's how God feels when I begin to soften and bend to his will so he can shape me into something better.
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| Reagan is holding the first set of baskets we made today - mine is on the left (her right) and hers is on the right (her left). We were hoping they would fit in Reagan's shoe holder, but we made them too big. We'll have to try again sometime. So I gave mine to Brian. It now holds some vanilla pipe tobacco and smells delicious. |
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| This is my third basket - from above. I think I'll keep this one. |
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| My third basket from below. |
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| A side view of basket number 3. |
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| Clockwise from the left - my #2 (Brian's tobacco basket), my #1 (Reagan's garden basket / housewarming present), Reagan's #1 (possibilities include mail, cards, fruit, etc.), my #3 (not sure of use yet) and Reagan #2 (a gift basket for a friend) |
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| Reagan and I had a great time. Norah fell asleep. |
Thursday, January 27, 2011
To be busy at home
Titus 2:3-5 says "teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God." In our home, I'm the older woman to my daughter-in-law, Reagan. I have the 'not addicted to much wine' part down, but have a long way to go in the reverent living category. Reagan, on the other hand is self-controlled, busy at home, and a loving wife and mother. After living together for the past nine months I suspect I'm learning more from her than she is learning from me. She is strong in her convictions and has amazing self-discipline as she strives towards her goal of having a home of their own.
This fall, Reagan offered to remove the wallpaper I've always disliked in the kitchen. She helped me to choose colors using this Carl Larson picture that is my 'inspiration piece' and by creating an idea board made out of magazine pictures and paint chips that I liked. Brett and Brian threw a wrench into her plans by launching a kitchen remodeling project (that's a whole 'nother story), but as of yesterday she has been able to complete a significant amount of painting in our living room (formerly the dining room) and kitchen. I love the colors and I love my daughter-in-law.
This fall, Reagan offered to remove the wallpaper I've always disliked in the kitchen. She helped me to choose colors using this Carl Larson picture that is my 'inspiration piece' and by creating an idea board made out of magazine pictures and paint chips that I liked. Brett and Brian threw a wrench into her plans by launching a kitchen remodeling project (that's a whole 'nother story), but as of yesterday she has been able to complete a significant amount of painting in our living room (formerly the dining room) and kitchen. I love the colors and I love my daughter-in-law.
The inspiration piece:
Looking from the kitchen to the living room through our new passthrough
From the living room to the kitchen, again looking through the newly constructed passthrough
The entire Dregge family - and a view from blue kitchen to green living room to yellow dining room.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Numbered Hairs
Brian's been wanting a haircut for awhile now, so we decided to do it between games of 500 with Brett and Reagan. Turns out Brett's been wanting a haircut too, so we quickly set up shop. Norah didn't want to miss out on the fun, so she asked for a haircut too. This was her very first haircut.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Our Hands
Brian's hands are folded as he waits for our game night to begin.
My hands are busy taking pictures.
Brett's hands shuffle the cards for our game of 500.
Reagan's hands search out pomegranate seeds for a juicy game night snack.
Norah's hands provide comfort as she watches 'Beauty and the Beast'.
God's hands sustain me.
"In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind." (Job 12:10)
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Surrounded with Songs of Deliverance
We had ReaLife tonight. ReaLife is a Young Life group for at-risk kids. Most of the kids who come are from the Alternative Learning Center and/or a foster home in town that sends them. We had a smaller group - 8 kids - there tonight. Of the 5 girls there, 3 are pregnant - 1 for the second time. Most are unsure about God, but they come because it's a fun, safe place and they get a good meal. We share our stories with them and listen to their stories. Christ has given us a true love for them and I know they can feel that, even though they question the source. We send extra food home with them, and they are happy to have food to share with their family - those that have families, anyway. They have experienced so much in their lives - really tough situations - and they are still kids. I don't know what to say or do to help make their lives better - it's too big a job for me, so I'm glad that God is in charge. I would appreciate any prayers that you could send up for them.
We asked a couple of the girls about their big purses. Someone asked if they carried a dog in there. It turns out, one of them did have a dog. His name is Pedro. He is injured, so he wears a sparkly band-aid.
Tracy shared her story tonight. It was a story of forgiveness - God's forgiveness. Psalm 32:1-7 is one of David's Psalm - David's story is also one of forgiveness.
Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sines are covered.
Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.
When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.
For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.
Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my trangressions to the Lord"-and you forgave the guilt of my sin.
Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him.
You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance
Tracy shared her story tonight. It was a story of forgiveness - God's forgiveness. Psalm 32:1-7 is one of David's Psalm - David's story is also one of forgiveness.
Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sines are covered.
Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.
When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.
For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.
Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my trangressions to the Lord"-and you forgave the guilt of my sin.
Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him.
You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Honor widows
I Timothy 5: 3-8
"Honor widows who are truly widows. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God. She who is truly a widow, left all alone, has set her hope on God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day, but she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives. Command these things as well, so that they may be without reproach. But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."
I don't think I've ever heard a sermon about widows. I knew my father would probably die someday, but I never gave much thought to my mother as a widow. As I spend time with my mom, I learn so much - and think often of the day that I will need help from my children. Reading this passage, I realize that this is part of God's plan for us.
"Honor widows who are truly widows. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God. She who is truly a widow, left all alone, has set her hope on God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day, but she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives. Command these things as well, so that they may be without reproach. But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."
I don't think I've ever heard a sermon about widows. I knew my father would probably die someday, but I never gave much thought to my mother as a widow. As I spend time with my mom, I learn so much - and think often of the day that I will need help from my children. Reading this passage, I realize that this is part of God's plan for us.
Friday, January 14, 2011
To every thing there is a season
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
1To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
Our days are filled with mixed feelings. A year ago, my father passed away. We knew his time was drawing close, but we didn't know how close. The night before he died, we talked to the nurses and family - we thought he had a few days left, so we went home to get rest. My mom and I regret not being there, yet we know that he would not have expected us to stay - he was ready to go and meet the Lord and never wanted to inconvenience us. Before I left him for the last time, I told him I hoped to see him again, but if he wanted to go, it was okay.
My delightful great-niece Ava is three years old today. My daughter is 28 and I'm looking forward to celebrating with her tomorrow. Having children is one of the greatest joys in my life. Amy is a delight.
Today we also enjoyed an art show by Micah Bloom, We have known him for many years and it is wonderful to see the talented father and man of God that his has become. One of my favorite things about getting old is watching children become men and women. I really like life.
1To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
Our days are filled with mixed feelings. A year ago, my father passed away. We knew his time was drawing close, but we didn't know how close. The night before he died, we talked to the nurses and family - we thought he had a few days left, so we went home to get rest. My mom and I regret not being there, yet we know that he would not have expected us to stay - he was ready to go and meet the Lord and never wanted to inconvenience us. Before I left him for the last time, I told him I hoped to see him again, but if he wanted to go, it was okay.
My delightful great-niece Ava is three years old today. My daughter is 28 and I'm looking forward to celebrating with her tomorrow. Having children is one of the greatest joys in my life. Amy is a delight.
Today we also enjoyed an art show by Micah Bloom, We have known him for many years and it is wonderful to see the talented father and man of God that his has become. One of my favorite things about getting old is watching children become men and women. I really like life.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
The Battle is the Lord's
From I Samuel 17
"And the Philistines stood on the mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on the mountain on the other side, with a valley between them. And there came out from the camp of the Philistones a champion named Goliath of Gath (big, strong, mean - Hebrews were shaking in their boots). David (a ruddy youthful who came to bring provisions for the soldiers) took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his shepherd's pouch..."I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand...that all this assembly may know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord's, and he will give you into our hand. When the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly towards the battlle line to meet the Philistine. And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground."
David didn't slay the giant - the Lord did it - so the people would know that he had the power to save them. Here's a photo of a stone from that area, courtesy of our friend Abi...
"And the Philistines stood on the mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on the mountain on the other side, with a valley between them. And there came out from the camp of the Philistones a champion named Goliath of Gath (big, strong, mean - Hebrews were shaking in their boots). David (a ruddy youthful who came to bring provisions for the soldiers) took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his shepherd's pouch..."I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand...that all this assembly may know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord's, and he will give you into our hand. When the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly towards the battlle line to meet the Philistine. And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground."
David didn't slay the giant - the Lord did it - so the people would know that he had the power to save them. Here's a photo of a stone from that area, courtesy of our friend Abi...
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Eat with Joy
Eccleciastes 9:7-10
"Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do. Let your garments be always white. Let not oil be lacking on your head. Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going."
I like Ecclesiastes, but I think it makes more sense when I read the whole book, not just portions. This is my new English Standard Version and sometimes the words surprise me like - 'Sheol, to which you are going' - what? So, I pulled out my NIV and it translates this with a reference to the grave, not Sheol. My dad described Sheol as nothingness, and at times he wondered if that was what was awaiting us after this life, but in the end he was certain he would meet the Lord.
I like the way it says 'let not oil be lacking on your head' rather than 'always anoint your head with oil' (NIV). Brings up a bunch of thoughts about shampoo, showering, etc. But I probably shouldn't go there...
The parts I love in this section are the parts about eating with joy - because I really enjoy food, and enjoying life with your spouse - whom your love, of course. (Vain life? yeah, I suppose so). So - we are all going to die, but we really should enjoy the lives that God has given us, don't you think?
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Make a Joyful Noise
For years I have clung to the idea that my voice is okay blending into a chorus, but should never be heard as a solo voice. After all, I was not selected for the Concert Choir in high school, despite my fervent desire. So I've refused to sing lead or solo whenever possible. Then I realized that pride and fear were getting in the way of what God was asking me to do. Now I figure that if someone asks me to sing, and they know what my voice sounds like, then who am I to stand in the way. I try to just give it to the Lord and let him decide how to use it. I'm a lot less nervous now that I realize that it's not about me and what I sound like. It's about worship and offering whatever I have for the Lord to use.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Reflections on 2010 / Lessons in Humility
In 2010 I decided to post a photo a day on Facebook, so it's the most thoroughly documented year of my life so far. And it was quite a year. A theme in the year is humility - God's been working on me. My favorite quote about humility is "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking about yourself less." It's a tough lesson to learn and I know I have a ways to go before I fully understand what it means to be humble.
In January my father passed away. He was a well-loved pastor and for many years I had him on a pedestal. When I became an adult I discovered that he wasn't perfect and I took it hard. I never stopped loving him, but I didn't keep up the relationship to the degree I should have. In his final weeks, I started going to the nursing home for lunch. Sometimes we would talk, sometimes we wouldn't. In those visits I rediscovered the wise and witty man that he was and reconciled with his faults. It was a sweet time I will always treasure. (I'm afraid that sounds sappy, but it's true, so I'm leaving it.) Losing dad has shaken the family dynamics and there has been both hurt and healing in the wake of his passing. For me, it's meant spending more time with my mother as she adjusts to the many changes in her life - being alone, living in an apartment, dealing with changes brought on by age, etc. As I write this, I know that my brain is doing a lot of processing when it comes to family - I struggle for words...
In early February Brian had to leave his job at the Salvation Army store due to pain in his hips from the work of constantly carrying furniture around. In September he was rehired for the new store in Faribault - in a new role that causes less strain. When he 'retired' he got some really heartwarming words from his co-workers. The timing worked well as Brian was able to spend time helping family during his time off. I wish he didn't need to work at all, but right now it seems necessary.
In February my daughter Amy gave birth for the first time as we welcomed Ryott into the world. I love being a grandmother. I melt every time he looks at me with his bright blue eyes and breaks out into a grin. In March Amy had surgery for some problems with a cyst on her appendix. It was a scary time and I am thankful that all seems well, so far, with her recovery.
In April I celebrated my 25th anniversary with my employer. It was a humbling time - around that time I got some feedback from my manager that was hard to accept, and I learned that I can't take anything, even my job, for granted. Things are back to normal now, and I am thankful for the lesson.
In May my son and his family took a leap of faith - leaving their jobs and home in Maryland and moving back to Minnesota. They are living with us while they pay off loans and save for a house. I never thought that it would be so delightful to have them move in with us - but this has been mostly wonderful. Brett's wife, Reagan, has done a lot of organizing and painting for us, and taught us about passion and patience. Their daughter, Norah is a delightful 2-year old - I can't begin to describe all the joy that she has brought into our household. I love seeing Brett in the role of father and husband - and doing both well. I love seeing Brian in the role of grandfather - something I've been looking forward to for years. It's a good fit.
Brian went to Alaska for a month in July to help his sister with some projects. I missed him, and was glad to have Brett to help around the house and yard. In a way, it felt good to miss him. I'm glad for the time they could spend together and it was fun to reunite and have new things to talk about for awhile.
In September Brian and I got to play music with an awesome group at an outdoor wedding. It's been awhile and it was so good to be part of a group again! The bride, groom, and many of their friends are graduates of Teen Challenge - former drug addicts who know that they are alive only through the love of Jesus Christ. It's inspiring to hear their amazing stories and I am reminded that we all need God just as much as they do. In November an old friend gave us an opportunity to join his group in doing music at his church once a month. Troy is a talented leader and we are thrilled to be working with him again.
In October a co-worker learned that her cancer was back. I helped with a fundraiser for her in December and was encouraged by the generosity of her friends, co-workers and family. She has begun chemo and it is going well. I don't know what the future holds, but it's a stark reminder that life and health cannot be taken for granted.
Brian and I had our 30th wedding anniversary in August. We celebrated in October with a weekend at Lake Sakatah with our children and grandchildren. The gift of their fellowship was truly the best. We had a great time together.
In late fall, we had a chance to provide some shelter for former neighbors who have watched their lives crumble around them due to a life of addiction, lies, etc. They lost custody of their children, were evicted from their home, and were down to a single bag of possessions in the back of our car. It was a problem too big for me to solve, but I know it's not too big for the creator of the universe. They are in a safe place now and I continue to hold them in my prayers.
One day, when walking home from work, I realized that I was needlessly taking small steps. I found I could walk faster if I lengthened my stride, and wondered when I had stopped walking the way I had in high school. Along with this discovery, I decided to give up my childhood habit of avoiding cracks in the sidewalk. It's time to lift up my head and see beyond the sidewalk.
I've been resisting exercise for many years. I know it's good for me, I'll feel better, etc., but it's just hard to make time for it. In November my friend Julie invited Jen (another friend) and I to a Zumba class. That's all it took to get me back into it and it feels so good. I've even been exercising on some of the machines at work on my off days. The next month Julie and I joined Weight Watchers. I made it through the holidays with a modest, healthy loss of 2.2 pounds. It's a start, and I'm encouraged enough to want to continue.
I am so grateful to have good friends in my life. I haven't always felt good about my friendships - I think it's hard to maintain them when you're busy with jobs and kids. I've had some great lunches, scrapbooking events, book discussions, conversations over coffee, Facebook chats, etc. It's hard to shake those old feelings of inadequacy, but I can't ignore the fact that God has blessed me with so many good people to love and share life with.
Brian and I have continued our involvement with ministry through ReaLife (a Young Life ministry for at-risk kids) and Celebrate Recovery (a Christ-centered ministry for healing from hurts, habits, and hang-ups). I continue to feel inadequate and unworthy to do this type of ministry, but I feel called to it, so I keep showing up. And lives are being changed there - not that I can take any credit for it, but it's awesome to be a witness to God working. These ministries humble me - and I'm not just saying that - I haven't felt this way doing Sunday School and music. I'm reminded of Romans 12: 9-10 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
That's enough for now. Bring on the new year.
In January my father passed away. He was a well-loved pastor and for many years I had him on a pedestal. When I became an adult I discovered that he wasn't perfect and I took it hard. I never stopped loving him, but I didn't keep up the relationship to the degree I should have. In his final weeks, I started going to the nursing home for lunch. Sometimes we would talk, sometimes we wouldn't. In those visits I rediscovered the wise and witty man that he was and reconciled with his faults. It was a sweet time I will always treasure. (I'm afraid that sounds sappy, but it's true, so I'm leaving it.) Losing dad has shaken the family dynamics and there has been both hurt and healing in the wake of his passing. For me, it's meant spending more time with my mother as she adjusts to the many changes in her life - being alone, living in an apartment, dealing with changes brought on by age, etc. As I write this, I know that my brain is doing a lot of processing when it comes to family - I struggle for words...
In early February Brian had to leave his job at the Salvation Army store due to pain in his hips from the work of constantly carrying furniture around. In September he was rehired for the new store in Faribault - in a new role that causes less strain. When he 'retired' he got some really heartwarming words from his co-workers. The timing worked well as Brian was able to spend time helping family during his time off. I wish he didn't need to work at all, but right now it seems necessary.
In February my daughter Amy gave birth for the first time as we welcomed Ryott into the world. I love being a grandmother. I melt every time he looks at me with his bright blue eyes and breaks out into a grin. In March Amy had surgery for some problems with a cyst on her appendix. It was a scary time and I am thankful that all seems well, so far, with her recovery.
In April I celebrated my 25th anniversary with my employer. It was a humbling time - around that time I got some feedback from my manager that was hard to accept, and I learned that I can't take anything, even my job, for granted. Things are back to normal now, and I am thankful for the lesson.
In May my son and his family took a leap of faith - leaving their jobs and home in Maryland and moving back to Minnesota. They are living with us while they pay off loans and save for a house. I never thought that it would be so delightful to have them move in with us - but this has been mostly wonderful. Brett's wife, Reagan, has done a lot of organizing and painting for us, and taught us about passion and patience. Their daughter, Norah is a delightful 2-year old - I can't begin to describe all the joy that she has brought into our household. I love seeing Brett in the role of father and husband - and doing both well. I love seeing Brian in the role of grandfather - something I've been looking forward to for years. It's a good fit.
Brian went to Alaska for a month in July to help his sister with some projects. I missed him, and was glad to have Brett to help around the house and yard. In a way, it felt good to miss him. I'm glad for the time they could spend together and it was fun to reunite and have new things to talk about for awhile.
In September Brian and I got to play music with an awesome group at an outdoor wedding. It's been awhile and it was so good to be part of a group again! The bride, groom, and many of their friends are graduates of Teen Challenge - former drug addicts who know that they are alive only through the love of Jesus Christ. It's inspiring to hear their amazing stories and I am reminded that we all need God just as much as they do. In November an old friend gave us an opportunity to join his group in doing music at his church once a month. Troy is a talented leader and we are thrilled to be working with him again.
In October a co-worker learned that her cancer was back. I helped with a fundraiser for her in December and was encouraged by the generosity of her friends, co-workers and family. She has begun chemo and it is going well. I don't know what the future holds, but it's a stark reminder that life and health cannot be taken for granted.
Brian and I had our 30th wedding anniversary in August. We celebrated in October with a weekend at Lake Sakatah with our children and grandchildren. The gift of their fellowship was truly the best. We had a great time together.
In late fall, we had a chance to provide some shelter for former neighbors who have watched their lives crumble around them due to a life of addiction, lies, etc. They lost custody of their children, were evicted from their home, and were down to a single bag of possessions in the back of our car. It was a problem too big for me to solve, but I know it's not too big for the creator of the universe. They are in a safe place now and I continue to hold them in my prayers.
One day, when walking home from work, I realized that I was needlessly taking small steps. I found I could walk faster if I lengthened my stride, and wondered when I had stopped walking the way I had in high school. Along with this discovery, I decided to give up my childhood habit of avoiding cracks in the sidewalk. It's time to lift up my head and see beyond the sidewalk.
I've been resisting exercise for many years. I know it's good for me, I'll feel better, etc., but it's just hard to make time for it. In November my friend Julie invited Jen (another friend) and I to a Zumba class. That's all it took to get me back into it and it feels so good. I've even been exercising on some of the machines at work on my off days. The next month Julie and I joined Weight Watchers. I made it through the holidays with a modest, healthy loss of 2.2 pounds. It's a start, and I'm encouraged enough to want to continue.
I am so grateful to have good friends in my life. I haven't always felt good about my friendships - I think it's hard to maintain them when you're busy with jobs and kids. I've had some great lunches, scrapbooking events, book discussions, conversations over coffee, Facebook chats, etc. It's hard to shake those old feelings of inadequacy, but I can't ignore the fact that God has blessed me with so many good people to love and share life with.
Brian and I have continued our involvement with ministry through ReaLife (a Young Life ministry for at-risk kids) and Celebrate Recovery (a Christ-centered ministry for healing from hurts, habits, and hang-ups). I continue to feel inadequate and unworthy to do this type of ministry, but I feel called to it, so I keep showing up. And lives are being changed there - not that I can take any credit for it, but it's awesome to be a witness to God working. These ministries humble me - and I'm not just saying that - I haven't felt this way doing Sunday School and music. I'm reminded of Romans 12: 9-10 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
That's enough for now. Bring on the new year.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Perfect Love Casts Out Fear
I John 4:18-19 "Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. We love each other because he first loved us."
Hearing this verse at Celebrate Recovery tonight, in a taped testimony, brought to mind the fears that have been running around in my head lately. Fear that diabetes, depression, and alcoholism will creep in and steal the joy in my family. Yet I know that God has always been faithful to us - even though these things have been present, off and on, throughout the years. I know God loves us, He's proven himself over and over. I shouldn't let those doubts in.
It's interesting to me that the fear verse is paired with 'We love each other because he first loved us.' This is the verse that Brian and I chose for our wedding, acknowledging that our marriage would succeed only if God was at the center as the source of our love. I certainly felt no fear that day. And there is no reason to fear now.
Hearing this verse at Celebrate Recovery tonight, in a taped testimony, brought to mind the fears that have been running around in my head lately. Fear that diabetes, depression, and alcoholism will creep in and steal the joy in my family. Yet I know that God has always been faithful to us - even though these things have been present, off and on, throughout the years. I know God loves us, He's proven himself over and over. I shouldn't let those doubts in.
It's interesting to me that the fear verse is paired with 'We love each other because he first loved us.' This is the verse that Brian and I chose for our wedding, acknowledging that our marriage would succeed only if God was at the center as the source of our love. I certainly felt no fear that day. And there is no reason to fear now.
Shine Like Stars in the Universe
Philippians 2:14-16a says "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life..."
So I'm giving in to the pressure and doing some blogging. I've named it after one of my favorite visuals -'shine like stars in the universe'. A star is so distinct, yet so tiny. A little light can go a long way. The star makes no effort, it just throws out the light from the fire that God has placed in it. And it is beautiful. It brings pleasure to people just by being there. It's always there whether you can see the sky or not - waiting to be found on a dark night.
So I'm giving in to the pressure and doing some blogging. I've named it after one of my favorite visuals -'shine like stars in the universe'. A star is so distinct, yet so tiny. A little light can go a long way. The star makes no effort, it just throws out the light from the fire that God has placed in it. And it is beautiful. It brings pleasure to people just by being there. It's always there whether you can see the sky or not - waiting to be found on a dark night.
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