Isaiah 65:17-25 (New Living Translation)
17 “Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, and no one will even think about the old ones anymore. 18 Be glad; rejoice forever in my creation! And look! I will create Jerusalem as a place of happiness. Her people will be a source of joy. 19 I will rejoice over Jerusalem and delight in my people. And the sound of weeping and crying will be heard in it no more. 20 “No longer will babies die when only a few days old. No longer will adults die before they have lived a full life. No longer will people be considered old at one hundred! Only the cursed will die that young! 21 In those days people will live in the houses they build and eat the fruit of their own vineyards. 22 Unlike the past, invaders will not take their houses and confiscate their vineyards. For my people will live as long as trees, and my chosen ones will have time to enjoy their hard-won gains. 23 They will not work in vain, and their children will not be doomed to misfortune. For they are people blessed by the Lord, and their children, too, will be blessed. 24 I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers! 25 The wolf and the lamb will feed together. The lion will eat hay like a cow. But the snakes will eat dust. In those days no one will be hurt or destroyed on my holy mountain. I, the Lord, have spoken!”
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Talk about a slap in the face
As I was driving around at work I turned on Walk in the Word with James McDonald. I thought hey I can listen to this because the first thing he said was the average man spends 4 minutes a day in meaningful conversation with his wife. I thought hey this may be good I can get some tips for Ed.
Well.....
He then went on to say that women often think they can "fix" their husbands with words.
Uh Oh.....
We think we can influence our husbands by "saying" stuff. Oh boy do I usually have words & LOTS of them.
Proverbs 21:9 (New Living Translation) 9 It’s better to live alone in the corner of an attic than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home.
Proverbs 21:19 (New Living Translation) 19 It’s better to live alone in the desert than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife.
Well darn it! Does that remind you of yourself? If so we better take a step back & see what God says to us as wives.
Well.....
He then went on to say that women often think they can "fix" their husbands with words.
Uh Oh.....
We think we can influence our husbands by "saying" stuff. Oh boy do I usually have words & LOTS of them.
Proverbs 21:9 (New Living Translation) 9 It’s better to live alone in the corner of an attic than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home.
Proverbs 21:19 (New Living Translation) 19 It’s better to live alone in the desert than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife.
Well darn it! Does that remind you of yourself? If so we better take a step back & see what God says to us as wives.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
God isn't finished with me yet...
We had our Ya Ya's grouping last night. These gals always make life a little easier! We are a group of broken, forgiven, some timid, some outspoken (guess which ones these are), women who love the Lord & are striving to live our lives BOLD for Him.
We are doing a Leslie Parrott study called "You matter more than you think". It is challanging at best but it gets us in the Word so that is a good thing! We never get out of there without both tears & laughter. It is such a relief to have a group of 8 women who can be totally open & non judgenmental.
I know for me it's a blessing to have cause for a long time I was a angry person. I had dealt with (or so I thought) some issues that I tried to keep to myself thinking I could handle it, & honestly up to 2 weeks ago only Ed & Tami knew this certain area in my life. One of the Ya Ya's said to me this morning "u n god certainly seem victorious now:) u r the kind of person people flock 2 because u make them feel accepted and comfortable. not alot of folks out there like that." I said well Susan, trust me I wasn't always like that, I used to be the person people ran from! I was a hateful, mean person & to be quite honest with you, those still creep up from time to time. I am not proud to say that I let them control me. However, not as often as I used to. I can tell when they are going to resurface & can usually put a stop to it but sometimes they still slip through and I usually end up hurting people that I care about. The sad thing about that is that when words are spoken & actions done, you can't take them back so even though you apologize people still remember what you said or did.
That is not the person I want to be & I know that when I do that I fail God. I do not want to be anything but a child of God. The great thing is that no matter who on this earth cannot forgive us, God always does!
He's not finished with me & I am OH SO THANKFUL for that.
We are doing a Leslie Parrott study called "You matter more than you think". It is challanging at best but it gets us in the Word so that is a good thing! We never get out of there without both tears & laughter. It is such a relief to have a group of 8 women who can be totally open & non judgenmental.
I know for me it's a blessing to have cause for a long time I was a angry person. I had dealt with (or so I thought) some issues that I tried to keep to myself thinking I could handle it, & honestly up to 2 weeks ago only Ed & Tami knew this certain area in my life. One of the Ya Ya's said to me this morning "u n god certainly seem victorious now:) u r the kind of person people flock 2 because u make them feel accepted and comfortable. not alot of folks out there like that." I said well Susan, trust me I wasn't always like that, I used to be the person people ran from! I was a hateful, mean person & to be quite honest with you, those still creep up from time to time. I am not proud to say that I let them control me. However, not as often as I used to. I can tell when they are going to resurface & can usually put a stop to it but sometimes they still slip through and I usually end up hurting people that I care about. The sad thing about that is that when words are spoken & actions done, you can't take them back so even though you apologize people still remember what you said or did.
That is not the person I want to be & I know that when I do that I fail God. I do not want to be anything but a child of God. The great thing is that no matter who on this earth cannot forgive us, God always does!
He's not finished with me & I am OH SO THANKFUL for that.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
ARGH!
Ok so Cole is at 30 Hour Famine, he left last night and is supposed to be back tonight so I am anxious to hear all about it. He raised close to $200.00 for it.
We have been crazy busy getting ready for Prom and Post Prom. I will post pics on Monday!!
That's it for now... gotta go to makeup!
We have been crazy busy getting ready for Prom and Post Prom. I will post pics on Monday!!
That's it for now... gotta go to makeup!
Friday, April 24, 2009
Take up your cross.....
Luke 9:23-26
(New Living Translation)
23 Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. 24 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. 25 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed? 26 If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels.
That is the verse I sent out to the teens today. I also forwarded it to my Ya Ya's. It is a daily reminder that we must CHOOSE to live out lives for God. It's daily friends!
I also read this verse today: Romans 1:21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile & their foolosh hearts were darkened.
Whoa!
How many times do we get wrapped up in out busy lives & "forget" to give God thanks. Far too many I am sure. However, we have to learn to make this a daily practice even on those really hairy days when we just don't feel like it. Too often instead of looking to God as the Creator & sustainer of life we see ourselves as the center of the universe. We soon invent "Gods" that are convenient projections of our own selfish plans. They can be anything such as television, money, cell phones (well crap), power, people (who doesn't do this?), alcohol, cigerettes, cars. I could go on & on but I think you get the picture! The common thread is that idolaters worship the things God made rather than God himself. Hmmmmm.... Guilty?!?!
Is there anything you feel that you cannot live without? Any priority greater than God? Is there a dream you would sacrifice everything to realize? Does God take first place?
These are all things I struggle with on a daily basis & I'd dare say I'm not the only one. You know the sweet thing though? God can help us to over come these issues. Talk to him, he is always ready to listen.
(New Living Translation)
23 Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. 24 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. 25 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed? 26 If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels.
That is the verse I sent out to the teens today. I also forwarded it to my Ya Ya's. It is a daily reminder that we must CHOOSE to live out lives for God. It's daily friends!
I also read this verse today: Romans 1:21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile & their foolosh hearts were darkened.
Whoa!
How many times do we get wrapped up in out busy lives & "forget" to give God thanks. Far too many I am sure. However, we have to learn to make this a daily practice even on those really hairy days when we just don't feel like it. Too often instead of looking to God as the Creator & sustainer of life we see ourselves as the center of the universe. We soon invent "Gods" that are convenient projections of our own selfish plans. They can be anything such as television, money, cell phones (well crap), power, people (who doesn't do this?), alcohol, cigerettes, cars. I could go on & on but I think you get the picture! The common thread is that idolaters worship the things God made rather than God himself. Hmmmmm.... Guilty?!?!
Is there anything you feel that you cannot live without? Any priority greater than God? Is there a dream you would sacrifice everything to realize? Does God take first place?
These are all things I struggle with on a daily basis & I'd dare say I'm not the only one. You know the sweet thing though? God can help us to over come these issues. Talk to him, he is always ready to listen.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Tuesday Tunes
David Crowder Band - O Praise Him
Turn your ear
To Heaven and hear
The noise inside
The sound of angels awe
The sound of angels songs
And all this for a King
We could join and sing
'All to Christ our King!'
How constant
How divine
This love of ours will rise
Oh, how constant
How divine
This song of ours will rise
Will rise...
CHORUS:
Ohh praise Him!
Ohh praise Him!
He is Holy!
He is Holy!
Turn your gaze
To Heaven and raise
A joyous noise
Oh the sound of salvation come
The sound of rescued ones
And all this for a king
Angels join to sing
'All for Christ our King!'
How infinite and sweet
This love so rescuing
Oh how infinitely sweet
This great love that has redeemed
As one, we sing...
What we have been up to....
We have been busy with Spring upon us! This weekend is Prom so we are getting ready for it. Softball and Track are in full swing.... kinda. Aimee has had 3 games while Cole has only ran one meet due to the others being rained out! The one that they did run he placed 2nd in hurdles, 3rd in 4 by relay and 1st in 400 relay. I hope he continues to have a strong track season. Softball is going we haven't won a game yet but I do think they have improved. Can't wait for travel season =)
I was laying in bed last night when Cole wanted to know the difference between the Pharisees and Sadducees. I had Ed explain it to him and he can back to my bed and read to me from Matthew. I adored it! He is really getting into the Word and really thinking about how it applies to him. Although he is only 13, my prayer is that he continues to get deeper and deeper in it.
I'll leave you with some recent pictures.... none of track yet though =(
Sports Banquet
Sports Banquet
Florida
Lady Rox Softball
Aim catching
Walked
I love this picture!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Ed and his friend
I love this picture! We may start playing where has Mr. Sock Monkey gone today and snap various pictures lol
Kelly VanMeter is selling these for $10.00 for Relay for Life! Let me know if you want any =)
I just noticed out the window is a cross I happened to get while taking the picture... too cool!!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Happy Anniversary!
Today is our anniversary! Where would I be without my Ed?!?!?!
Annette and I went Post Prom door prize shopping (that is for another post...) and we stopped by the Lighthouse Christian Bookstore, I felt like I was cheating on Blessings to be quite honest! I bought Ed 2 books plus the Love Dare book from the movie Fireproof.... I bought that book thinking I could get something out of it from Ed, but then I was convicted (it's not about me right?!?!) so I think I will read it first.
Happy Anniversary Edley!! I LOVE you more today than ever!
Annette and I went Post Prom door prize shopping (that is for another post...) and we stopped by the Lighthouse Christian Bookstore, I felt like I was cheating on Blessings to be quite honest! I bought Ed 2 books plus the Love Dare book from the movie Fireproof.... I bought that book thinking I could get something out of it from Ed, but then I was convicted (it's not about me right?!?!) so I think I will read it first.
Happy Anniversary Edley!! I LOVE you more today than ever!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Famine
Once again the youth group at church are participating in World Vision's 30 hour famine. The kids are collecting donations that go to World Vision to fight hunger. It is an awesome thing to see youth willing to fast for 30 hrs. If anyone wants to make a donation contact me at UofKWldCatFan@aol.com or text me at 812-709-0778. This will take place next weekend April 24-25. The kids will be going to Camp Riverdale to do service projects etc... Cole will be going but Aimee & Chang will not due to Prom.
I am so happy to see the sun shining today! It has been a cold dreary week! Two of Aimee's games have been postponed as well as one of Cole's track meets. Tonight Ed will go with Cole to his meet & I will go with Aimee to her game. Next week Ed & I will switch roles. We try to take turns if there are conflicts. Chang is not doing a spring sport. The reality of his leaving is starting to sink in. He will leave June 10. That will be a sad day! We have done this before but it doesn't get easier. They become a part of your family.
Saturday is our anniversary! We don't have anything planned, other than going to the gathering at Antioch on Saturday evening. We are meeting at Bobe's with friends to eat before so we are looking forward to that!
Enjoy the sunshine today as well as the SONshine!
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
-Colossians 3:15-17
I am so happy to see the sun shining today! It has been a cold dreary week! Two of Aimee's games have been postponed as well as one of Cole's track meets. Tonight Ed will go with Cole to his meet & I will go with Aimee to her game. Next week Ed & I will switch roles. We try to take turns if there are conflicts. Chang is not doing a spring sport. The reality of his leaving is starting to sink in. He will leave June 10. That will be a sad day! We have done this before but it doesn't get easier. They become a part of your family.
Saturday is our anniversary! We don't have anything planned, other than going to the gathering at Antioch on Saturday evening. We are meeting at Bobe's with friends to eat before so we are looking forward to that!
Enjoy the sunshine today as well as the SONshine!
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
-Colossians 3:15-17
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Armor of God
I got this today from Inge and it was too good not to share. Enjoy!
Lord I thank You that I am putting on the Sandals of Peace. I want to be a peacemaker. Wherever I go, wherever You send me, I want to be able to share the Gospel of Christ in such a way that I will be able to be used as a tool of God to bring peace to people in their relationship to God. I want to be able to bring peace among brothers and sisters together, but God I want to be a vessel of peace. "Blessed are the peacemakers" Your word says.
Lord I want to thank You for the Shield of Faith. I want to thank You that no matter how may fiery missiles Satan throws at me, how many temptations Satan puts in my way, no matter how bad, how intense, I want to thank you for the Shield of Faith. I thank You that I can hide behind the Shield of Faith standing upon the Rock, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is our Faith. Faith is a gift from Him and He says, "Above all take up the shield of faith." I stand on the basis of who I am in You.
I thank You for the Sword of the Spirit. I thank You for the Word of God. The sword cuts deep, penetrates to the very quick, down to the Spirit. Lord I want to thank You that if I am attacked today, I will use the Sword of the Spirit. I'll go on the promises of the Word of God. I'll just be reminded of what You have said
Lord I want to thank You that I am dressed for battle today. I thank You and I am ready for whatever You send my way.
Lord I thank You that I am putting on the Sandals of Peace. I want to be a peacemaker. Wherever I go, wherever You send me, I want to be able to share the Gospel of Christ in such a way that I will be able to be used as a tool of God to bring peace to people in their relationship to God. I want to be able to bring peace among brothers and sisters together, but God I want to be a vessel of peace. "Blessed are the peacemakers" Your word says.
Lord I want to thank You for the Shield of Faith. I want to thank You that no matter how may fiery missiles Satan throws at me, how many temptations Satan puts in my way, no matter how bad, how intense, I want to thank you for the Shield of Faith. I thank You that I can hide behind the Shield of Faith standing upon the Rock, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is our Faith. Faith is a gift from Him and He says, "Above all take up the shield of faith." I stand on the basis of who I am in You.
I thank You for the Sword of the Spirit. I thank You for the Word of God. The sword cuts deep, penetrates to the very quick, down to the Spirit. Lord I want to thank You that if I am attacked today, I will use the Sword of the Spirit. I'll go on the promises of the Word of God. I'll just be reminded of what You have said
Lord I want to thank You that I am dressed for battle today. I thank You and I am ready for whatever You send my way.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Tuesday Tunes
Savior, Please - Josh Wilson
Savior, please take my hand
I work so hard, I live so fast
This life begins, and then it ends
And I do the best that I can, but I don't know how long I'll last
I try to be so tough
But I'm just not strong enough
I can't do this alone, God I need You to hold on to me
I try to be good enough
But I'm nothing without Your love
Savior, please keep saving me
Savior, please help me stand
I fall so hard, I fade so fast
Will You begin right where I end
And be the God of all I am because You're all I have
Hallelujah
Everything You are to me
Is everything I'll ever need
And I am learning to believe
That I don't have to prove a thing
'Cause You're the one who's saving me
Monday, April 13, 2009
Easter
We had a wonderful Easter! We woke up around 5:00 a.m to make it to Sunrise Service. The youth put on the sunrise and it was awesome. I doubt there was a dry eye in the church. They served us communion. We happened to get to go to the station that Aimee was at so that was special. We then had breakfast and then a combined service at 9:00. I was so blessed to see not only the Jones' and Tedrows' again this week but Teresa and Brian as well. John (Aimee's boyfriend) also came with us. It was a very nice service.
From there we went to my aunt and uncle's house for Easter dinner. I was so happy because all of my brothers and sisters were there. It got quite loud at times but it was really really nice!
I always get my kids Easter baskets, but also this year I got one for John and Joey. They seemed to really like them. Not only do I put candy in the baskets, I also put Christian items as well. John got a camo Bible and a pocket knife with a cross etched in it. We had just gotten Joey a Bible last week so he got little things like bookmarks with scripture etc... Cole got a new cross necklace, book, & bookmarks. Aimee got a new slimline Bible, a book & a ring. Chang got a book, cross necklace, bokmarks, & magnets. They also got filled to the brim with candy. Ed decided to get them chocolate crosses instead of bunnies. They enjoyed them!
Well better get back to work!! have a great week!!
From there we went to my aunt and uncle's house for Easter dinner. I was so happy because all of my brothers and sisters were there. It got quite loud at times but it was really really nice!
I always get my kids Easter baskets, but also this year I got one for John and Joey. They seemed to really like them. Not only do I put candy in the baskets, I also put Christian items as well. John got a camo Bible and a pocket knife with a cross etched in it. We had just gotten Joey a Bible last week so he got little things like bookmarks with scripture etc... Cole got a new cross necklace, book, & bookmarks. Aimee got a new slimline Bible, a book & a ring. Chang got a book, cross necklace, bokmarks, & magnets. They also got filled to the brim with candy. Ed decided to get them chocolate crosses instead of bunnies. They enjoyed them!
Well better get back to work!! have a great week!!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Lauren "That Girl"
Hello Friends!!
As I was getting ready for bed last night I received a text from Lauren asking for me and my family to pray for her on Wednesday on her Mission trip. She said she felt an uneasiness about the trip which is highly unlikely for her. Satan is really trying to fill her with uncertainty and doubt.
She asked that I post on here asking everyone to pray Ephesians 6:10-18 (these verses have hit me in the face ALL week, coincidence? I think not).
So I am asking you all to stop at some point and pray the following:
Ephesians 6:10-18 (New International Version)
As I was getting ready for bed last night I received a text from Lauren asking for me and my family to pray for her on Wednesday on her Mission trip. She said she felt an uneasiness about the trip which is highly unlikely for her. Satan is really trying to fill her with uncertainty and doubt.
She asked that I post on here asking everyone to pray Ephesians 6:10-18 (these verses have hit me in the face ALL week, coincidence? I think not).
So I am asking you all to stop at some point and pray the following:
Ephesians 6:10-18 (New International Version)
The Armor of God
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Thank you for coming together with me on this.
SUNDAY'S COMING!!!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Prayer
I thought it was time to put out a few prayer requests. I know there are a lot of needs & that I won't cover them all but here are a few. Thanks in advance for your prayers!
- my little brother Daniel. A lot of issues here. While he is a loving, caring kid he has substance abuse problems. He is need of prayer for deliverance. Also my parents as he is living with them.
- Lacy Jeffers. Put on bed rest for her pregnancy. She is almost 31 weeks along with Ava. They are waiting on tests to see what to do.
- Dear sweet Lauren as she embarks on her mission trip.
- There seems to be a lot of illness going around. Pray for healing.
- Pray John 14:27 for Peace where needed. Seems to be a lot of people needing the Peace that no one can give but Jesus.
- Job losses. My little sister's job was cut. Pray for her knowledge to decide what to do as she has a few options.
- Pray for courage for teenagers today to be able stand firm in their beliefs.
- The leaders of our churches, & government.
I just know I am forgetting some. If you know of prayer concerns leave a comment to add to the list.
- my little brother Daniel. A lot of issues here. While he is a loving, caring kid he has substance abuse problems. He is need of prayer for deliverance. Also my parents as he is living with them.
- Lacy Jeffers. Put on bed rest for her pregnancy. She is almost 31 weeks along with Ava. They are waiting on tests to see what to do.
- Dear sweet Lauren as she embarks on her mission trip.
- There seems to be a lot of illness going around. Pray for healing.
- Pray John 14:27 for Peace where needed. Seems to be a lot of people needing the Peace that no one can give but Jesus.
- Job losses. My little sister's job was cut. Pray for her knowledge to decide what to do as she has a few options.
- Pray for courage for teenagers today to be able stand firm in their beliefs.
- The leaders of our churches, & government.
I just know I am forgetting some. If you know of prayer concerns leave a comment to add to the list.
Good Friday?
This was my devotional today from the Upper Room. I thought it was too good not to share!
Romans 5:8 (New Living Translation)
8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
DECADES ago Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described a five-stage pattern in the way people deal with death and loss. In the first stage, "denial," we try to deny what is happening because we fear the truth. Humans try to avoid pain and fear. What brings us pleasure and makes us happy, we call good. And when the truth hurts, we often decide it must be evil.
The Passion of Jesus tells the truth about how sin (our living without God) can cause us to get good and evil all wrong. Our sin judges the Innocent One guilty. It betrays the One who trusts us with himself. It puts to death the Life-Giver.
In a culture that tries to be happy even if that requires living in denial, I feel I need to apologize for this week. We call it "Holy Week," though it is unholy. We call today "Good" Friday, though it is horrific. We shy away from the raw pain of this day; the largest church attendance of the year is on Easter, a good and happy day.
Maybe we should put a label on this week: Warning: Jesus' Passion may show you more than you want to see and tell you more than you want to know. Because Good Friday is not just about Jesus. It is also about us and the cost of our sin. That is the truth and there is no denying it.
Mike Ripski (Tennessee, USA)
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you for dying to free me from sin. Amen.
Thought for the Day
The painful truth of Good Friday makes possible our eternal Easter.
Romans 5:8 (New Living Translation)
8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
DECADES ago Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described a five-stage pattern in the way people deal with death and loss. In the first stage, "denial," we try to deny what is happening because we fear the truth. Humans try to avoid pain and fear. What brings us pleasure and makes us happy, we call good. And when the truth hurts, we often decide it must be evil.
The Passion of Jesus tells the truth about how sin (our living without God) can cause us to get good and evil all wrong. Our sin judges the Innocent One guilty. It betrays the One who trusts us with himself. It puts to death the Life-Giver.
In a culture that tries to be happy even if that requires living in denial, I feel I need to apologize for this week. We call it "Holy Week," though it is unholy. We call today "Good" Friday, though it is horrific. We shy away from the raw pain of this day; the largest church attendance of the year is on Easter, a good and happy day.
Maybe we should put a label on this week: Warning: Jesus' Passion may show you more than you want to see and tell you more than you want to know. Because Good Friday is not just about Jesus. It is also about us and the cost of our sin. That is the truth and there is no denying it.
Mike Ripski (Tennessee, USA)
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you for dying to free me from sin. Amen.
Thought for the Day
The painful truth of Good Friday makes possible our eternal Easter.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Maunday Thursday
Today is the day that Jesus prepared his disciples for his leaving. It is the day then he washed their feet, & they had The Last Supper.
As we prepare for Easter please take some time to really, really think about what Jesus did for you on that cross. For us! Although we deserved the punishment, he took it for us.
Tonight at our church we are having a Maunday service. Replaying the Last Supper. I have a board meeting so I will miss it. I think that is just wrong to have a board meeting tonight!! Ed will be portraying Peter tonight. It starts at 7 if you are interested in attending at Loogoote United Methodist Church.
Enjoy this day!!
As we prepare for Easter please take some time to really, really think about what Jesus did for you on that cross. For us! Although we deserved the punishment, he took it for us.
Tonight at our church we are having a Maunday service. Replaying the Last Supper. I have a board meeting so I will miss it. I think that is just wrong to have a board meeting tonight!! Ed will be portraying Peter tonight. It starts at 7 if you are interested in attending at Loogoote United Methodist Church.
Enjoy this day!!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Blown Away
I started getting blown away beginning Monday night at our grouping. It has escalated from there!
This week I have been trying hard to "Be Still". Let me tell you God is blowing me away. I have spent a lot of time in prayer & more specifically on my face & knees in prayer.
He has been faithful as always! He has revealed so much to me this week. I have been awaken several nights this week with an urge or a word from God. It has been amazing.
After reading Andrea's blog yesterday there were comments from an anonomyous person who seems to be hurting. While reading the comments again last night I asked Andrea & Susan to pray John 14:27 with me for this person & their situation. I then fell asleep having a talk with God. I woke up around 2:30 with a person laid on my heart. Now, I have learned if this happens to start praying for them & that is what I did.
Just a little while ago I got a message from Susan telling me the word from Joyce Meyer that she just got was John 14:27. Go check out her blog. I would link it but I'm on my blackberry & can't. However, you can get to it from my list of blogs. "Living & Loving life in plesant valley". I told her it was our confirmation that God was working with & through us.
Have you been spending time with your Heavenly Father listening more than talking? If not try it, you won't be let down.
Remember God is HUGE & FAITHFUL!
This week I have been trying hard to "Be Still". Let me tell you God is blowing me away. I have spent a lot of time in prayer & more specifically on my face & knees in prayer.
He has been faithful as always! He has revealed so much to me this week. I have been awaken several nights this week with an urge or a word from God. It has been amazing.
After reading Andrea's blog yesterday there were comments from an anonomyous person who seems to be hurting. While reading the comments again last night I asked Andrea & Susan to pray John 14:27 with me for this person & their situation. I then fell asleep having a talk with God. I woke up around 2:30 with a person laid on my heart. Now, I have learned if this happens to start praying for them & that is what I did.
Just a little while ago I got a message from Susan telling me the word from Joyce Meyer that she just got was John 14:27. Go check out her blog. I would link it but I'm on my blackberry & can't. However, you can get to it from my list of blogs. "Living & Loving life in plesant valley". I told her it was our confirmation that God was working with & through us.
Have you been spending time with your Heavenly Father listening more than talking? If not try it, you won't be let down.
Remember God is HUGE & FAITHFUL!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
One True God Mark Harris
I am in LOVE with thiss song right now. The words are AMAZING!!
I don't have a God I can put on a stand
Or a God I hold in the palm of my hand
I have a God that's holding me
And I don't have a God that I can create
In the place I live with the money I make
I have a God, He made everything
So I don't need a temporary man made deity
When I got the real thing
I got the real thing
He's the Lord of all the earth
The maker of all things
He alone is the one true God
Kingdoms rise and fall
But even through it all
He remains
The one true God
I don't have a thing that I got on my own
I don't have a care that I carry alone
But I have a God who's carrying me
I don't have sin that He doesn't forgive
And I don't have a heart that is worthy of His
But I have a God who still loves me
So I don't need a temporary man made deity
When I got the real thing
I got the real thing
Who is this King of Glory
The Lord strong and mighty
Who is this King of Glory
The Lord strong and mighty
Who is this King of Glory
Who is this King of Glory
Tuesday Tunes
Who are we
That You would be mindful of us
What do You see
That’s worth looking our way
We are free
In ways that we never should be
Sweet release
From the grip of these chains
Like hinges straining from the weight
My heart no longer can keep from singing
Chorus
All that is within me cries
For You alone be glorified
Emmanuel
God with us
My heart sings a brand new song
The debt is paid these chains are gone
Emmanuel
God with us
Lord You know
Our hearts don’t deserve Your glory
Still You show
A love we cannot afford
Like hinges straining from the weight
My heart no longer can keep from singing
Chorus
Bridge
Such a tiny offering compared to Calvary
Nevertheless we lay it at Your feet
Chorus
Monday, April 6, 2009
Holy Week
Palm Sunday began Holy Week. The same people who ushered Jesus into their city with palm branches, crucified him just a few short days later.
This week is such an essential part of Jesus life. I hope you take time to read the story in Luke 22-24 this week in preparation for Easter. We watched "The Passion" at church Friday night then took Holy Communion. It was a special night. While the movie is hard to watch, I am sure it does not compare to what actually happened so many years ago.
The ole scum dog will really start working this week, friends. Guard your hearts & minds especially now. He is always lurking & knows our weeknesses & loves to prey on them to trip us up.
Enjoy this week!
This week is such an essential part of Jesus life. I hope you take time to read the story in Luke 22-24 this week in preparation for Easter. We watched "The Passion" at church Friday night then took Holy Communion. It was a special night. While the movie is hard to watch, I am sure it does not compare to what actually happened so many years ago.
The ole scum dog will really start working this week, friends. Guard your hearts & minds especially now. He is always lurking & knows our weeknesses & loves to prey on them to trip us up.
Enjoy this week!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Joey
Joey is a kid that Ed coached in JV boys a few years back. Since then we have had a special bond with him. He hangs out here, goes places with us. He is family. I truly love this kid like he is my own. He just turned 20 on the 30th of March.
He came over tonight to watch basketball with us. I watched the first game with them then I retired to my room to lay down to watch my man, Tyler Zeller.
As I was laying here, I heard Joey strike up the conversation of God & church. Joey is not in church & quite frankly he has had a rough, rough life. His step grandma has raised him. When he was in junior high he got into some trouble but I can tell you he has really grown up.
I laid here listening to Ed basically preaching the Bible to him. Joey asked a TON of questions. Ed came & got his Bible & they looked things up. It made my heart glad. We have invited Joey to church but he seems scared. I am still praying he comes one day.
For now though I will take he & Ed fellowshiping with each other reading the Bible & discussing.
He came over tonight to watch basketball with us. I watched the first game with them then I retired to my room to lay down to watch my man, Tyler Zeller.
As I was laying here, I heard Joey strike up the conversation of God & church. Joey is not in church & quite frankly he has had a rough, rough life. His step grandma has raised him. When he was in junior high he got into some trouble but I can tell you he has really grown up.
I laid here listening to Ed basically preaching the Bible to him. Joey asked a TON of questions. Ed came & got his Bible & they looked things up. It made my heart glad. We have invited Joey to church but he seems scared. I am still praying he comes one day.
For now though I will take he & Ed fellowshiping with each other reading the Bible & discussing.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Mistaken Identity
I was listening to Focus on the Family this morning and for the past 2 days it has been a program based on the book "Mistaken Identity". It is about the wreck that happened in 2006 where 4 students and 1 adult lost their lives. Where one of the survivors was mistaken for actually one of the girls who had passed. The families spent 5 weeks mourning a loss & sitting by a bedside of a girl not theirs hoping for her recovery.
I remember hearing about this when it took place but the program was so good to listen to. I can't wait to read the story. If you get a chance go online to focusonthefamily.com & listen to the broadcast.
God prepares us for things that are to happen. Many times we have no idea he is even preparing us until after the situation has hit.
I remember hearing about this when it took place but the program was so good to listen to. I can't wait to read the story. If you get a chance go online to focusonthefamily.com & listen to the broadcast.
God prepares us for things that are to happen. Many times we have no idea he is even preparing us until after the situation has hit.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Bronchitis
Well, here I am again with Bronchitis. It started out with a sore throat which isn't typical for when I get it twice a year.
So, with my asthma over the counter cough syrup doesn't work for me so I always have Bromotine (the cure all in my world). This stuff just works for me WELL.... I called my doctor Monday & they quit making it. You can still get it as a compound that the medicine shop in Bedford makes but it isn't covered my insurance & costs 40.00 a bottle. They called in Tussionex for me. I took it last night around 8:30. I started feeling nothing.... I mean NOTHING. Felt a little weird but not too bad. I got up at 3:30 went to work & man it hit me. I felt extremely strange & not quite like myself. I was itching all over like something was crawling all over me. I called the doctor & she said it has Hydrocodone in it. I knew that but man it was a weird thing. I left work at 7:30 came home, went to bed & Ed woke me up at 4:00! Wow I can't believe I slept all day. I still feel a little drugged but I'm not coughing much. I thought it was crazy to get the compounded medicine but it's looking better all the time.
Needless to say, I have been less than productive this week & I hate it. Ed & I have plans to go buy flowers Saturday so I am looking forward to that. I want a dogwood tree so I am hoping to find one!
We are having a family movie night Friday night at 7:00 at out church. Loogootee United Methodist. We are watching The Passion of the Christ. I'd love to see you there!! =)
So, with my asthma over the counter cough syrup doesn't work for me so I always have Bromotine (the cure all in my world). This stuff just works for me WELL.... I called my doctor Monday & they quit making it. You can still get it as a compound that the medicine shop in Bedford makes but it isn't covered my insurance & costs 40.00 a bottle. They called in Tussionex for me. I took it last night around 8:30. I started feeling nothing.... I mean NOTHING. Felt a little weird but not too bad. I got up at 3:30 went to work & man it hit me. I felt extremely strange & not quite like myself. I was itching all over like something was crawling all over me. I called the doctor & she said it has Hydrocodone in it. I knew that but man it was a weird thing. I left work at 7:30 came home, went to bed & Ed woke me up at 4:00! Wow I can't believe I slept all day. I still feel a little drugged but I'm not coughing much. I thought it was crazy to get the compounded medicine but it's looking better all the time.
Needless to say, I have been less than productive this week & I hate it. Ed & I have plans to go buy flowers Saturday so I am looking forward to that. I want a dogwood tree so I am hoping to find one!
We are having a family movie night Friday night at 7:00 at out church. Loogootee United Methodist. We are watching The Passion of the Christ. I'd love to see you there!! =)
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Pet Peeves
So, while we were on vacation last week I developed a new pet peeve. This has always been a peeve of Ed's but it never really bothered me.
Most cars now have cup holders & quite a few, so what I don't understand is why if you have several people in your vehicle do drive thru workers always put your drinks in a drink carrier? I mean it wouldn't be so bad if they asked you if you wanted one or if you were alone with several drinks. I think the managers must push the almighty drink carrier like asking "would you like fries with that".
I just wonder if there is some incentive to handing out so many of them. Like employee of the month, only drink carrier pusher of the month. I remember one time when Ed handed it back through the window (as he ALWAYS does) the lady gave him a death look & threw the thing on the floor with force! We all cracked up. Which raised yet another question....are they not reusable?
Anyway, what are some of your drive thru pet peeves???
Most cars now have cup holders & quite a few, so what I don't understand is why if you have several people in your vehicle do drive thru workers always put your drinks in a drink carrier? I mean it wouldn't be so bad if they asked you if you wanted one or if you were alone with several drinks. I think the managers must push the almighty drink carrier like asking "would you like fries with that".
I just wonder if there is some incentive to handing out so many of them. Like employee of the month, only drink carrier pusher of the month. I remember one time when Ed handed it back through the window (as he ALWAYS does) the lady gave him a death look & threw the thing on the floor with force! We all cracked up. Which raised yet another question....are they not reusable?
Anyway, what are some of your drive thru pet peeves???
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