Merry Ch..............wait it's not even Thanksgiving yet!!!

Ok, if you're like me you love Christmas. Everything about it. The music, the weather is colder, there's an excitement in the air! But, I can't talk about that until I talk about the most overlooked holiday: THANKSGIVING!! I love Thanksgiving. It's a great time for family/friends to get together not just for a meal, but to catch up, have fun and just be together. I think it's what is missing in a lot of families today. When do we just get together to hang out? To spend time together and talk? Catch up with each other's lives? Not nearly often enough. We are so busy with daily life we forget to slow down enough to just spend time together! I am excited about this Thanksgiving. We're having our usual suspects over for dinner: Mom, Dad, Esther, David, the kids. Along with Aunt Marion and Uncle Hartley this year! It should prove to be a lot of fun! And just in case you don't love Thanksgiving as much as I do, here's some visual images to help.......... and just for the record, I'm a huge Norman Rockwell fan! : )

VETERANS DAY!

It's Veterans Day today. I haven't had anyone in my immediate family who's every served in the military. My uncle was in the Navy, so was my first cousin Steve, and my Great Uncle Tom served in WWII. I don't know what it's like to be in hostile territory 24/7, not knowing if I am going to make it back ok. I don't know what it's like to have a husband/wife serving overseas not being able to see them or sometimes talk to them for days on end. It cannot be easy. What a sacrifice. It reminds me of a passage of scripture. John 15:12-13 "This is my commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." I cannot relate to what many families feel on Veterans Day. I can't because I've never sacrificed in that way. I can, however, pray for those who have and those who continue to sacrifice. Thank you to all who are Veterans and active duty military!

Bye bye band........for now.

Well, it's official. Marching band season is over. I was never in marching band. I was in middle school band in Northern Maine. When we moved away I joined chorus and found my niche. I loved chorus and even made Allstate 2 years. My daughter followed in my footsteps and was in chorus all 4 years. Jonathan has been in the band. He can sing but doesn't like anyone to know about it for fear he might have to actually sing. He has excelled at band though and has been playing the trumpet for the last 6 years. This last year he has been playing the baritone. He also taught himself to play the guitar and some chords on the piano as well. Anyhow, with some sadness I have to admit I'm going to miss it. He had marching practice Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday after school until 5 and then had a game on Friday and sometimes competitions on Saturday. It's been a busy season and no one has had a life, as it were. However, it's pretty amazing what 150 kids can do with some music, creativity and lots of practice. Our kids came in 2nd in the Georgia Marching Band Series. This is the second year of this competition (we were the "Grand Champions" last year, but they changed the rules a bit this year). I'm proud of them. All of them, even though they aren't my kids I feel like they are. I think that's why I wanted to be one of the chaperone coordinators. I wanted to be there to see every performance. They are very cool when they march into the stadium every Friday night! I'm so proud of them! Thankfully we have a few more things: Veterans Day Concert, Christmas Parade, Christmas Concert, and Spring Band Trip (I might be missing something). Anyhow, I love the chaos and busyness and will miss the marching band until next year!!

Last Youth Group Pic

Last youth group with Pastor John.

Pastor John

For those who have known Pastor John, you have had the rare opportunity to meet a great man of God. He is completely humble and a true servant of the Lord. He has been our pastor for the last 5 years. It's really hard to believe it's been that long, but it has. He came to us at a time when we had been without a pastor for quite a few months. Our church was in a different place than it is now. John came in not trying to be an agent of change, but rather a pointer of direction, the direction of the Lord. He came to cast no shadow and certainly did not do that. He wanted God to be glorified and He has been during his time here. He also came in explaining his commitment to the Lord's work through summer camps and a variety of other ministries, wanting us to know that was part of his ministry. He served all those plus the duties as our pastor, sent out as a representative of our small church and I can truly say I am proud to call him my friend. He has been to Thanksgiving, Birthday celebrations, concerts, games, visited in the hospital and quietly escorted himself out. He was there when Dad was diagnosed with Cancer, when I have had several surgeries, Mom had surgeries and Morgan was so sick. He is getting married a week from Saturday to a wonderful girl named Lisa Richard. She is one lucky woman and he's a lucky man! Then after marriage and a short stay in California they are heading to BICS in Lenox, MA to start a new ministry. John will be perfectly suited for that work. I guess I just wish everyone could know him (although truth be told he'd be a bit embarrassed by this blog post) because he's more than just our Pastor; he's been our friend. We will miss him and wish him the best of luck in his 2 moves, marriage and new job!! God Bless You Pastor John and Lisa!!!

You make me sick, wait........what I meant was I make you sick........

I'm encouraged but am a bit heartsick. Have you ever been heartsick? Have you ever felt like your heart literally aching from being heartsick? Why am I heartsick you ask? Well, a few reasons. Not what people traditionally think of being heartsick over. Not because of a relationship. Not because of selfish reasons to be sure. I am heartsick for my church. I feel like they aren't understanding what kind of blessings that He has waiting for us, but aren't either interested or care about what's going on. I think apathy would be the greatest of reasons why we are in the predicament we are. Maybe I'm wrong. But, this thing I do know.

Our priorities are out of whack!!

Have you experienced that? Feel like you're always chasing your tail, like you are never accomplishing anything and just pacing in a circle?? That's what I feel like is happening in our church. We're questioning why we should do something or not with the wrong checklist. See, the Lord wants to know our willingness to do something and provides for that thing to be accomplished according to His will. Not, do we have the money? resources? people? time? ok, then I guess we can do it.

WRONG!!!!!!!!

God doesn't care about our resources, HE OWNS IT ALL ANYWAYS! He doesn't care about money, IT'S ALL HIS TO BEGIN WITH!!! He doesn't care if you're willing, if you're not, HE'LL COMPEL SOMEONE ELSE TO DO IT!! See, we have it backwards. All He wants is us, totally sold out and willing to do His will. Without question. Then and only then He'll use us.

So why, you ask, are you heartsick?? Well, I'm heartsick because I feel like the Lord has given us blessings at our church. Blessings of money, people, resources, time and we squander it on figuring out if we can "afford" something. Not being cheerful in our giving (when we give). Robbing those who could be blessed and ourselves of the blessings that could be ours for doing His will.

I don't want to do that. I want to be sold out, completely and wholly for what God has for my life. I pray I don't squander opportunities provided. I pray I can be used. Period. In spite of my imperfection (trust me I have the imperfection thing down, cold).

Here's the thing..................................

If I'm heartsick for my church....................how much is God heartsick for me????

How many times have I disappointed Him, got my priorities out of whack and caused the creator of the universe to put his head in His hands in shame? Wow. I'm terrible. But that's it. We're all terrible. But He loves us. We all have our priorities out of whack and He still uses us for His work and will.

So, here's my conclusion...............

God uses us in spite of us. Thank God He does!!

So, Christmas is coming. It seems like the stores try to shove your face in it earlier and earlier each year. This year it was Oct 30th. I couldn't believe the tree at the mall yesterday. Are you kidding me? We haven't had Halloween, Thanksgiving, don't forget Black Friday........ then Christmas!

Well, I guess the retailers are scared because of the economy and are trying to drive sales. Who knows....... ?? I guess they're hoping you spend more money. Or if you have a few more months to think about it, you'll fall into their trap.

We're going to Maine for Christmas this year. What ever possessed us to think of going to ME in Dec I have no idea, but we're supposed to go. I saw some of my New England friends on Facebook today saying it had snowed or was snowing. NOT a good sign. I haven't driven in snow for years. Not looking forward to that. I would almost rather visit ME in the fall when the leaves change, before it gets too cold and there is snow.

Owwwwie

So, this is my toe wrapped up. I wouldn't subject you to the trauma that would be the result of seeing the toe itself. No Jen, I haven't had a pedi and looks like I won't be getting one for awhile now! I guess I come by my accidental nature honestly. My sister dropped a rack on her foot at work. Oh well. Could be worse!

Just the facts ma'am......

Have you ever watched Law and Order? Or how about Judge Judy? I like Judge Judy because she can sift through the "fluff" and get to the facts and ultimately the truth. I guess I've always been one who wants to get to it. Just give me the truth and I'll try my best to make the application. I struggle with that in my Christian walk. Am I pursuing what the Lord has for my life? Am I being obedient to the Great Commission? Am I properly pursuing growth as a Christian?? I guess I am disturbed because a person can be one to the exclusion of the other. Some feel the building up of the "temple" and edification of the saints is all a body of believers is supposed to do. Others feel the Great Commission is all that should be pursued leaving behind the growth that is supposed to occur in their life (and the lives of those around them).

* Side note: how are you supposed to make disciples if you are a baby Christian and can't guide them b'cos your own life lacks?? *

A balance has to be achieved, that's how. Are we all called to the Great Commission?? Yes. His command was given to His disciples but in turn it is given to each of us. I was SHOCKED when one of the people I go to church with and I were talking and they shared that they felt not everyone was called to actually "witness" to people, but felt that a life lived correctly should be witness enough. WHAT????? Are you kidding me?

Newsflash!!! Even non Christians live good lives! Are they an example of Christs love and goodness??

After my jaw closed, I asked what the church should be doing and they said building up the saints (the conversation was longer, but this was the gist). Well, at least they got 1/2 of it right. I guess that's why I feel like I've been on a lifeboat adrift in my own church. When going on the variety of missions trips I have, there is a very small group of people that I KNOW are praying for me and actually care what is happening. However, I never felt like I was "First AC Church's missionary", but most thought it's just a "thing" I wanted to do on my own (which by the way was never what I wanted and monetary support is not what I was looking for, it was a 'sending out'). It explains my frustration. It explains why every time there's a board meeting I'd rather have the nails pulled off the end of my fingers than go. The attitude of most in the church is that we don't have enough money. Really?? We have more money than we've EVER had before. But the overwhelming attitude is we have to be good stewards of it (Yes, I agree with that), to the exclusion of anything that would be considered "a cost". Really? Yup, we had a conversation once about value for money spent (in regards to supporting those going to camp- if they aren't a member we wouldn't support them- ARE YOU KIDDING ME??). If we don't get tithing members out of an expenditure we shouldn't spend it. We're going to accept the Lord's money and ignore His work? Wow.

One more newsflash! When we spread the gospel to the lost, generally speaking it is the poor, needy, downtrodden who respond to it, and guess what? They usually don't have money. What a concept! Minister to those in need AND WHO NEED CHRIST!!!

So, what is the correct solution? I am not sure. There are so many changes coming down the pike starting tonight with a visit from our regional superintendent. We'll see. I don't look for any big solution to come anytime soon. There is a good portion on our board who'd be happy not doing anything (they just want an interim pastor), but that would mean more work for those few who do actually try to do the work.

Mark and I are taking a "wait and see" attitude (at least I am). I don't want to make a rash decision based on how I "feel" now. That's stupid and childish. I may be frustrated, but maybe I just need to not be on the board. Maybe I can make an impact without subjecting myself to more frustration. I need to be obedient to the Lord, but on the same token, be a good sister in Christ (sometimes it's hard to love people when you "serve" with them).

Clearly I need HELP........and PRAYER............and PATIENCE, wait scratch that last one.......

I am so glad that the one who created the universe loved me enough to die for me and STILL has patience with me, and uses me IN SPITE OF ME!!! I need to show the same patience with those He's not through with yet either. Pray for me and my church.............I'd be happy to do the same for you!

A sad happiness

Today seemed very sad and very exciting at the same time. John Tate announced he will be going to BICS and joining them as of the first of the year, right after he is married. He officially "resigned" this morning and his last Sunday will be Nov 7. I am more sad than you will ever know. John has become more than just our pastor, but also a close friend. He has spent many Thanksgivings at our house as well as birthday's, been to concerts and games. Our loss is the enormous gain of BICS. I have a greater concern with John's leaving, however, in our church. I am excited for the opportunity God is presenting John with but also with the opportunity we have as a church to rally together and pray seeking His will for us as a body. Please pray for us during the months ahead. It will not be easy to be without John, but we know that God's will is perfect and it is easy to forget that when we become personally involved in the lives of others. We often lose sight of the fact that the Lord has a plan. "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and give you a future" Jeremiah 29:11. It is also exciting because I am leaving on a missions trip today. I love going and serving. However, I am going with a saddened heart. I am torn and will be sad for awhile after he leaves. I am so happy for John and Lisa with this fantastic opportunity. I truly love BICS as well! I have a hard time being sad knowing he is going there. So, I guess I would covet your prayers for my trip, our church and our Pastor.

Decisions, decisions...?!?

It's amazing to listen to people. When people are in crisis, they usually ask for prayer (as they should). But, have you ever stopped to think about why people get into a crisis? There are clearly some things that they have NO control over. Car accidents, sicknesses and general maladies at times, cannot be helped. But there are many instances where a persons actions have directly resulted in a consequence and not just that person, but their ENTIRE family have to suffer. It's sad. I've seen it time and time again. A lot of people make decisions based on what feels good for the moment, and not how it will affect them long term. How do you help someone not do that? I have had the pain of watching this happen, seeing the consequences played out then listening to the person complain about their circumstances. I feel like saying, "well duh!!", but clearly I can't. I have fallen victim to my own stupidity time and time and time again. I have made mistakes and been the victim of other's mistakes too. It makes me think about Jesus and the plan for salvation. He comes to us while we're in the mud puddle at the bottom of the cesspool, listens to us whine and says "well duh!!". Then he says, let me take you out of the mire, clean you up and make you whole. I have forgiven all you have done and will do. I love you and truly care about you. What decision could be easier than to accept Christ's work on the cross for our sins? The great news is we have done nor will do anything to deserve it! The only thing we have to make/do is a decision.....

Acts 4:11-12

New Chapter

Well, the last post was about changes. They were closer than I thought. I made the decision to go back to what I've been good at. I was with Aflac for 9 years and even though I have worked at an agency for over a year, things are very uncertain in the medical field. Carriers (BCBS/Humana/Aetna, etc) haven't decided how they're going to pay agents or IF they'll continue to use agents in the field or not. The funny thing is Aflac and other supplemental companies are not being affected by this new legislation at all. Funny. Sometimes we can look at a decision we've made and go "What the heck was I thinking?", but I think in this case my experience doing what I've done for the last 16 mos has given me invaluable experience to understand aspects of the bill, how it will affect accounts I currently have and what type of insurance would be good for them. Would I have gone to work for the agency if I knew I was leaving 16 mos later? Probably not. Was it the best decision? Maybe. But as with all decisions made and consequences played out I think it was a good one. I am not sure what is coming down the road or why things happen the way they do, but I am back to what I love and back to making my own schedule and working for myself! I really cannot describe the level of relief I felt when I handed in my resignation letter! I am looking forward to my next Aflac chapter (not that the last one ever really ended), but as with everything, I pray I am able to continue to do well and make the right decisions!

Changes are in the air..........

I would be kidding myself if I didn't recognize the changes coming in my industry. I have worked for the past 10 years in an industry that's ever changing based on regulation coming from both Washington and Atlanta. Every time you get comfortable with how things are, it changes. I would have to be blind not to see the panic set in with those in my industry. Some are changing industries, some are waiting it out to see what changes come about and then make a decision. It is all about compensation. How will agents be compensated? Well, the way it works now- I find the best policy at the best price for you and am compensated by the insurance company we place you with. If the insurance companies pull all sales operations in house, then insurance agents will either go to work for the company or become a paid consultant. It will redefine our industry and create a whole new level of cost for the employer. I have no idea what's coming and anyone who says they do is lying because I've seen it change even since the new legislation has passed. Oh well. Am I worried? A little. But then again, maybe not. We'll see.

Body Gospel, Really???

Let me preface this blog post by saying: 1. I am a Christian, 2. I take my relationship with the Lord very seriously, and 3. I abhor those who use your relationship with the Lord to sell their stuff.......... for only two payments of only $39.95! Okay, let me explain myself. I was watching TV one Saturday morning, when what to my wondering eyes should appear? The hokiest commercial I have ever seen. "Body Gospel".....Beachbody's latest offering to those who won't do "P90X" or "Insanity" because it's perhaps too "worldly". Hey, do you have a relationship with Jesus? Do you want to be skinny? Are you willing to pay? Well, we have the program for you! I wonder how the marketing pitch in the conference room went? So, we need to have lots of clouds, perhaps a shot of her with her arms stretched out to the sky as if getting a divine word from God; don't forget about the "rays of light" coming down and shining on her for effect. Really? Wow. Her bio on the website says "Donna Richardson Joyner has starred in award-winning workouts, including the Buns of Steel^™ and Sweating in the Spirit series. " Really, from Buns of Steel to Body Gospel?? Ok, maybe I'm taking the making fun of this to an extreme, but really? I mean, their tag line when the website first comes up is this:

Body Gospel^®: Have faith in your weight loss success.

At last, you can combine the power of your faith with your desire to lose weight and get fit. Body Gospel is a first-of-its-kind program that includes workouts set to inspirational gospel music, breakthrough new resistance bands, and a complete nutrition plan created by fitness icon Donna Richardson Joyner.

She shows you how to combine this effective program with your faith in God to transform your body and your life. With glorious music guaranteed to get you moving, every workout is a “party with a purpose,” and the results will amaze you.

If you believe, you will succeed!

I wonder if the resistance bands are called.............resist evil bands, or resisting the devil bands. This is almost too easy to make fun of!!

Well, if you want to see said product/marketing material...........here it is:

http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/body-gospel.do?code=BBHOME_CONTROL_BG

You decide.

Old folks driving in cars.......sort of

Ok, I am CONVINCED that old folks who drive need to take a drivers test. Why? Well, let me enlighten you. I was at the stop light at the end of our cross street and directly behind a car with a "handicap sign" hanging off the rear view mirror. Occupant: 1 old lady. Ok, my first sign of trouble was the white "back up" lights were on. I gave her some room because I figured she'd gun it and hit me. Good call, cos that's just what happened (except the hitting me part, I gave her enough room thank goodness). Then, after recovering, she punched into D and took off. I was still behind her, and she and that Mercury Grand Marquis kept swerving between the two allotted lines. I felt like I was in the scene of Ferris Bueller's Day Off where his Dad is trying to pass the little old lady with the beehive hairdo. Scary. So my remedy? If you are of the "older" generation and feel the need/have the ability (so says you) to drive, you HAVE to take a test. No do overs either. If you fail, that's it, kaput! I know it sounds harsh, but c'mon! My daughter and soon my son will be on the road. I need to know they're not going to be run over by Grandma Moses in the Mercury Grand Marquis!!!

Schedule, precious schedule!

Routine. I love it. I have to have it to order my freakishly disordered life. Why? Because chaos usually rules our house in the summertime. I love order, and schedules, and the busyness of after school activities. I am not sure why this is, but even when I was a little girl I couldn't wait for school to start. Why? Not because I enjoyed school. No, I DEFINITELY didn't excel at any particular subject. I was marginal at best in History and Math (because I liked the subject). I was no Rhodes Scholar. No, it was always the routine of the day that I looked forward to. I crave it. I am not sure what I am going to do when Jonathan actually finishes High School. Perhaps take over for some overworked Mom and order their child's life. I complain about how busy we are but secretly I love it! So here's the schedule for this year: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Jonathan has band practice after school and Friday is a game. Mostly home games this year, but there are some away games and a few competitions on Saturday. Slap in some meetings Mark has after school, Sunday activities and there you go with our chaotically ordered life. The funny thing is not everyone loves my precious schedule. I am a list person (see previous blog post http://wwoman2000.blogspot.com/2009/10/blog-check.html), constantly going through a "mental checklist" in my mind to ensure I haven't forgotten anything related to the next activity. Jonathan, on the other hand, could inevitably breeze in with just the shirt on his back and has a "whatever" attitude about most anything and everything. It's frustrating. I usually get at least 2 calls a week from said panicked boy wanting to know if I can fit in running a very important item to school before going to work. Yesterday it was a baritone horn. I expect at least another phone call before the end of the week. Welcome to my world, my preciously ordered, scheduled, chaotic world!

Ok, so I'm a week into my new "lifestyle" plan. I choose not to call it a "diet" plan because mentally I think I have a block specifically about that word. I have lost 3 lbs! Mark and I are doing this together as a team, but even more than that we're involving the whole family. Jonathan has become our fruit smoothie gourmet (w/Splenda not sugar), and Morgan gets up at 5:30 am M/W/F to go to step class with me. Also, no more junk food in the house. We are making an effort not to buy things that are unhealthy. How are we doing it? Simple. Eat less and exercise. Keeping it under 1500 cal a day and going to the gym 3x a week plus a walk with Mark on Saturday (ok, so I try to keep up with giganticness's stride; to no avail). Plus he's already 40 lbs ahead of me in the process. Well, here it goes. Why will I be successful now when I haven't the previous times? I am changing my lifestyle, thinking and overall food habits. It has to be done. You know, it's amazing when you don't eat the usual "junk" filled with sugar you don't feel hungry all the time. This first week has been good. I've not been hungry in between meals, and no snacking at night. This is going to be a long journey. I will be 42 next year, and Mark and I will celebrate our 21st anniversary in September. We have to do this so we live to see our grandkids and actually enjoy our retirement someday. It's more about health and active lifestyle than quick fix diet. Of course, a lot of prayer helps too. I have been asking the Lord to help me make good choices and keep me from being hungry all the time. So far so good!

Self discipline, schmiscipline.

Well, I have to admit it. I lack discipline. I suck, admittedly. I make plans and don't finish, I started losing weight only to gain 1/2 of it back (like for the 50th gazillion time). WHY??? Well, I have come to the conclusion I am pretty lazy. No excuses, just trying to figure it all out. The sad thing is I get on my son for being lazy, lacking discipline and here I am, the queen of laziness. Ahhh..........so what shall I do, just give up? No, that's stupid. I guess it's never too late to start and as long as I take it a day at a time I can do it. I have come to the conclusion that "programs" "pills" and all the other myriad of things that can be purchased via TV or internet only work because you're letting them do all the thinking for you. Ahem, laziness. The only real way to come to a result is to make a determination that I'm going to eat less and exercise more. Simplistic I know.......believe me. It sounds a lot easier than it is. I ACTUALLY have to plan ahead and either get up early for work or go to the gym after work. I have to watch what I eat and ice cream is NOT on the diet........I know, completely sucks. I am a junk food-a-holic (if there is such a thing). I would rather eat fried than grilled, opt for fries and leave the friggin salad out of it. This doesn't even delve into my addiction to chocolate. That's a whole other blog for another day. Oh well. So, here I go ........AGAIN!!! Wish me luck, and admittedly I will need prayer. I will be doing most of the praying though. I have no discipline within myself and need all the help I can get.

Thank you Lord in advance for all the help you are giving me and grace you bestow!

Sorrow and Hope

Sadness. Overwhelming sorrow. It is a peculiar thing how this one thing can affect your entire body, mindset and health. My family found out that my sister in law has cancer and it is spread throughout her body. It doesn't look good for her, but no final answers until tomorrow. How else could one respond except overwhelming feelings of sadness? She is in a great deal of pain plus she has 5 children. Two of whom are 13 and 11 (my brother's biological children). The thing that escapes me is how someone can endure the pain (both physical and emotional) without God. He is such an ever present part of our lives and the thought of not being able to talk to Him, read scripture and gain comfort gives me a feeling of overwhelming sorrow. If I found out today that I have a terminal illness and was told I may die I would be sad. Sadness in the thought I would be missing my children growing up. Sadness in leaving those I love behind to endure the pain of the loss. But I would not fear death. Why? It is not the end. Scripture tells us it is not. We have hope! Hope that one day we will all fellowship again in Heaven! It is not a permanent end but rather a hiccup in our time together. As a follower of Jesus Christ I have the hope and assurance I will not only live with my Savior one day, but will reunited with our loved ones! I pray that if you don't know Him or it's "been awhile", you make a commitment to Him. He's waiting. Are you listening? I pray you are.

Endings are beginnings

This school year has come to a close pretty quickly. I cannot believe it was last August I dropped Morgan off at school and will be going to get her in a week and a half. Time flies. Time in general goes faster it seems the older you get. Not really sure why that is the case. As a kid I couldn't wait for school to be over, then to get married, then to have kids, then to see them grow. I am feeling like all that has gone within a blink of an eye and soon it will be just Mark and me! I really hadn't contemplated that fact until very recently. It makes me think about back when we first married and it was just the 2 of us. It still is a ways off, but something to contemplate. I will be happy for a simpler life without running kids back and forth to wherever or the never ending money stream leaving my pocket, but all in all I will miss it. Every new ending is a beginning of another chapter. I am always excited to see what the next one will bring!

To compromise or not to compromise...

Today is just another day. Another day of working, eating, sleeping and other misc things needing to get done. Not anything special. I am amazed, however, how compromised people become. I talked with someone today who has little by little, taken advantage of. To the point they are no longer just being taken advantage of, but outright being wronged. Why? Initially to please the person doing it in hopes of receiving some type of reward, so to speak. Now, it is just to appease them. Sad. If I were to tell you that you would, say, be having an affair; or stealing an item from a store; or perhaps lying to someone you love I would hope you'd say, NO WAY! But how does a person go from being so dogmatic about wanting to do the right thing to actually committing the offense? Slowly, little by little, compromising yourself. It doesn't usually happen that a person wakes up one morning and says, "I think today I'll doing something terrible", no it is a progressive thing. We become desensitized over time. We justify the reasoning based on some wrong perhaps done to us. I have a news flash.......there is no right way to do a wrong thing. If you know it's wrong, there is NO justification for it. I need this as much as the next person. I have to remember to guard my heart and mind against those things that would cause me to stumble. Just one question I need to ask... am I compromising myself in some way? If so, I need to go to the source of all strength and ask for the one who can guard up my heart and mind to do so. There is a reason we have a conscience. It is to help guide us, but essentially since it can fail we have to remember that humanity has no good. None at all. I am thankful for God, his grace and that He loves and cares about me to be the guard for my heart and mind!

Survey says......

I would like to take a quick survey of those who may read my blog. I am a Christian, and I guess you wouldn't have to read too many posts to figure that out. I am curious, however, among those who would consider themselves Christians as well as those who wouldn't some observations about the church. So, hopefully I'll get a response or two, we'll see.

1. What do you think the ultimate purpose of the church is?

2. What type of things should a church be doing to achieve the purpose?

3. Why do you go or don't go to church?

4. What would be something you'd like to learn about say in Sunday School or study in a Bible Study?

5. What biblical subject is most perplexing?

6. If you had a bad experience with a church, what was the resolution or was there one?

7. How do you feel you fit in or don't fit in with the church you go to now?

I am not trying to be nosy, just a bit curious as to what people are thinking. Thanks for looking, and if you answer, thanks for answering!

I am at a loss.....

To start I would like to say I have never used this blog as a forum for my political views nor have I ever made commentary about our government or politics. I am CERTAIN that all Presidents, past and future, have and will use something to help make their point. Whether foreign policy, domestic or some other issue they feel would help public opinion sway in their favor. I have never been shocked like I have when I spoke with a local business owner this week. This person was at a meeting with one of the "6" health care CEO's who supposedly met with President Obama to discuss healthcare reform. This gentleman had meetings with past presidents (Bush, Clinton) IN PERSON. They have had the same routine each time they have come. Arrive at the White House, ushered into the west wing, meet, sometimes followed by a press conference. This time, they were ushered into the east wing. After waiting for awhile, they were told to follow the staffer, who led them into a room with waiting tv cameras, lights, President Obama and his infamous teleprompter. He proceeded to read off said teleprompter followed by cameras off, teleprompter off, President exit and bye bye. No meeting with the President. Look at the White House's own transcript- it's a lie......he DIDN'T meet with them, nor does he care what they think or for that matter what you think. This is being shoved down their throats as much as the American public's! Read the transcript for yourself- http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Remarks-by-the-President-on-Reforming-the-Health-Care-System-to-Reduce-Costs Are you kidding me? My husband has been saying since before the 2008 election that Obama is an ideologue who is, well, just plain arrogant. I have been of the opinion that he comes off as arrogant but surely he will do what the American public wishes. He won't go against what they want. WRONG. He IS an ideologue who feels we are all too stupid to figure out what is best for us, and is even on the road doing "town hall meetings" to lecture us how much we really don't understand. He has driven this country into deeper debt than any other president and the democrats are running for the hills to get away from him and his ideals so they can get re-elected. As a matter of fact, the US Government is in danger of losing it's AAA credit rating (according to Moody's). What does this mean? Well, when an individual has bad credit, they have to pay a higher interest rate because they are a credit risk. http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/287151 I have NEVER commented on political situations or politics in general, but having worked in the insurance industry for the last 9 yrs I feel like I have a stake in what happens to not just my industry but am insulted that Obama wants to tell me what is best for my industry having not even asked anyone who actually works in it. It would be like him coming into an ER and giving the physician advice as to how to treat the patient. Give me a break! I love my job and I wish insurance companies would do things differently, but going to a single payer system is NOT the answer. That is what Obama wants.. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpAyan1fXCE ..... he just won't come out and say it now that he's president. It's not palatable. And by the way, did you watch his "meeting" with the GOP on Cspan? I did and I am disgusted. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1-jasxb7NY. This one from youtube is in it's entirety. If you support Obama, I am sorry if I offended you. I really am not a controversial person. If you ask my opinion, Bill Clinton started off weak and ended strong. I appreciate some of the things he tried to do like welfare reform and budget responsibility. This was at a time when Republicans were getting it wrong. I also didn't agree with everything that George Bush did either. His last year was weak and he wanted out. I thought Iraq was a mistake, but ALWAYS supported the troops! I guess what I want whoever reads this to understand is that we are all thinking people and should NEVER take a party line and stand on every issue. It's a mistake. I am concerned about lots of things including what kind of country I am leaving for my kids and grandkids. That should be the concern of every American.

To trial or not to trial??

^"2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. ⁴Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4. Pure joy. What exactly does that mean? Pure- free from anything of a different, inferior, or a contaminating kind. Joy-a state of happiness. We are to consider it happiness, free of anything else, when we face trials. Why? Well, the writer goes on to tell us that it is because we know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. So then what is perseverance? Steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc. especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. Ever feel aimless? Like you a looking for a purpose or at least something greater than yourself. I sometimes do. I don't think when I was younger I would consider facing trials "pure joy" or that perseverance was something I longed for. There are times when life seems to fall lockstep behind us. Everything is coming easy and without trial or trouble. Then there are the trials. It doesn't mean that we are or have done something wrong or stepped out of line. It's in those times God is trying to do something with us or for us or prepare us for something else. The key to remember is that as His child, He is with us. He promises to never leave nor forsake us. What a great promise. No matter where we are, who we are with and regardless of having support of one kind or another, He is there. I am grateful. Grateful for all He's done and is doing in my life. I want to be aware of all He is doing in my "circle" of influence here and abroad. My prayer is that no matter what happens in your life and whatever comes your way that you would know there is a God, He knows all about you before you even open your mouth and say a word and wants you to know Him.

Wow

After watching the stories of all the Haitians on TV and seeing all the horrific images, I can't help but say one thing. WOW. Just how can I complain?? It's the overwhelming feeling I have every time I come home from Honduras. These folks lacked basic infrastructure and a strong economy to begin with, but complicate that with the recent tragedy and wow. Envision if you will going from a difficult daily life to not even knowing if your family members are dead or alive? If they died and were buried in one of the mass graves being dug, never being able to identify them? How tragic and awful. I cannot conceive of things that these folks have to deal with. In spite of this vast and awful tragedy there have been images of people surviving. People being pulled from the wreckages of their former homes and reunited with the remnants of their families. Many have given thanks to God as the reason for them being able to survive. Wow. I haven't got enough faith at times to see 2 feet in front of me and trust that God will provide a way, yet their faith is all they have. Sometimes I think God is up in heaven shaking his head at us saying "What are you thinking, you crazy people? Don't you know I am God the creator of the universe? If I created the universe, can I not handle your minor problems?". Do I really believe this? Yes, but do I have faith? Morgan put on her page that faith is moving without seeing. I have this intense desire to see before I leap, to be in complete control. How is it this lesson seems to be a lifelong one for me? I guess sometimes the Lord allows us to get to the point where we cannot do anything but pray and trust. Our actions have been played out to the extent that we have no other option but to wait and trust. It's in those moments we have an opportunity to practice what we preach and trust in Him. Lord I pray for those who have experienced this vast and great tragedy. I pray that you would be the strength for those who have none. I pray for those ministering in Haiti, Honduras and all over the world in your name. I lift them up not really knowing what they will encounter or what they will need from you, but just praying. Lord, help me to focus on you and all you are doing and not on my petty problems but rather give all things to you and give you the glory for working them out without my much unneeded input. Phil 4:19

Thought du jour

It's been quite a week. I was planning on going on a missions trip, then after a great deal of discussion with Mark decided to put it off until later this year and hopefully I'll go later with folks from our church. I want more people to have this experience, to catch the excitement of ministry on speed (this is the term I have coined for mission work in Honduras). A bit disappointing, but I will be praying as the work continues. In spite of my disappointment I am excited for the future. I am excited that Morgan is struggling with things like Theology and questioning what she believes and why she believes it. Blindly following without ever questioning is dangerous. It is how cults can "brainwash" people. We should always be working through scripture, wrestling with why we believe what we do. More people who occupy the pews of the church should be doing that. I never really understand why things happen the way that they do, but there is always a reason. Always. I guess this week's blurb is just about a bit of disappointment (for my own selfish reasons-missing the trip to Honduras), excitement for Morgan's provision and learning. I can't be too disappointed because the Lord's work always goes on. I am grateful no matter what my circumstances and situation because I know that God has it in control. I'm just along for the ride!

Missions

I am about to embark on another missions trip. This one is a little different because I will be going for 2 weeks instead of 1. Each time I am preparing to go, I try to do a lot of devotions, spend a lot of time in prayer and prepare for the trip. The funny thing is that as much preparation as I "try" to do, I am never going to truly be prepared for everything that occurs. It's almost like God, sitting up in heaven, is looking down at us saying "you crazy people, what do you think you're doing"? I think we miss it here especially. God only asks us to be willing and open to Him. It's a difficult thing. I don't think we do as much at home as we do in the mission field because we are not open to it. We aren't LOOKING for opportunities to minister. In the mission field, we not only are LOOKING for opportunities, but we are actively praying for them, every day. We prepare our hearts/minds for the work that will occur. It is an exciting thing to see God at work. How easy is it to get stuck in our "rut"? To go about our lives with our face down, nose to the grindstone without even looking up long enough to take a look around and see what God is moving in? How awesome when we recognize what He's doing and asking Him to show us where/when to use us and becoming an ACTIVE participant. The last trip to Honduras I was on we called the trip of miracles. We saw people healed! Yup, I said it, HEALED!! I witnessed several of these with my own eyes! How exciting! We saw a 90 year old man who had never heard the good news about Jesus saved! Yes, to those who aren't Christians, this may not be good news, but I find it to be very exciting. How many people get stuck in the Sunday rut? I am guilty of it. Many times! I am so blessed, beyond what many of the people we minister to will ever have. My time and presence there is the least I can do if I can be used as an instrument for God. I want Him to use me as long as He can. Lord, help me to remember to ask You for opportunities here in GA. Help me to not have blinders on, but be cognizant of what You are doing here! Thank you for thinking me even worthy of being used!