i am a redhead

This is Love

2011-09-15T15:55:00.000-05:00

O Lord, Reawaken within us
A burning passion for you
A love so deep we can’t keep it in
A purpose
A calling
To reach the world for You
To tell them of Your great love
Heal the hurting and the sick
Break the suppression of the poor
Free the captives and the slaves
Release your children from their bonds
This is love
That we might know you and be saved
By grace and Your Son Jesus
The blessed cross, that He gave His life as our ransom
Conquered the grave so we can live with him forever
That in return, we would go
And tell the world of Him
This is love
So great
So beautiful
So perfect
What a love
I am crying out, Lord, that we would hear the cry
Of the poor and needy
That we would reach out a helping hand
Those words of love
That healing touch
The bread of life
To quench the hunger
Heal the broken
This is love
It’s not us, it’s ALL YOU, O Lord
My beautiful God!
Your mercy knows no bounds,
That you would save us and call us
Commission us
We are here to do your will
Call us, Lord, and we will go
Wherever You lead, we will go
For this is love

Update in the life of Jess

2011-07-28T10:26:00.000-05:00

There’s been a lot going on lately! Summertime means crazy busy-ness mixed with tons of fun times with friends and family. It’s been crazy, it’s been fun, and right now it’s starting to wind down a little (whew!) and I’m enjoying not having something to do every night. I just relax on the couch and watch the Twins, and that is enough for me :). Bliss :).

I’m also really excited because there have been a lot of cool things God is stirring up in our family (especially my parents) and our church! Can’t reveal much right now…more to come, that’s for sure, as things progress :) But God has also been at work in my heart, stirring me up and leading me, gently yet firmly toward the goal He has for me. I don’t know what that looks like (will I ever?) but that’s not a big deal because there’s a lot on the horizon and it’s getting really exciting. I’ve been praying daily about an opportunity I came across at the beginning of this month, and since then it’s latched onto my heart and I can’t stop thinking about it, wondering about it, praying about it, learning more about it, etc. Again, sorry to leave you hanging, but I don’t want to jump the gun and say too much about it and it not happen. If you do get the chance, look up theworldrace.org and that might give you a glimpse into what I’m thinking/praying about, haha ;). It would require a lot of change and would be a HUGE step for me…so the timing is crucial and I’m praying and seeking God in this. It IS pretty exciting, though! My brain starts going a mile a minute and I not only can’t stop thinking of all the possibilities of places I could go and all I could do and see and the people I’d meet…but also for the missionaries I know and how they could possibly take advantage of hosting a World Race team, which I think would be hugely awesome!

So anyway! That’s a very inconclusive update…but it is what’s going on right now in my life. Otherwise, what have I been up to? Celebrated my 24th birthday in June (my friends surprised me, my first surprise birthday party EVER—totally MADE my day!).

Saw Hillsong United live in concert in Milwaukee in June. Can I say AWESOME?! Took a pontoon ride down the river and out into Lake Michigan, that was incredible and with my friends, absolutely hilarious!

Went backpacking the last week of June with my dad, brothers, uncle and cousin...SO much fun, lots of hard-core hiking, muddy legs, gorgeous rivers, breathtaking views, and fun family times (I just absolutely LOVE being on the North Shore & Lake Superior, it's one of my FAVORITE places on earth!)

Otherwise just working full-time (busy brochure season at MLT keeps me on my toes!). Playing volleyball once a week, enjoying the Missionary Call lifegroup (my dear missionary friend Dr. J is coming this Friday…I am OH-SO-EXCITED to see her!) Planning my next Twins game (can you believe I’ve only been to 1 game this year, and that was in May when it snowed???)

Going to lots of weddings and grad parties!

And definitely getting excited for what’s to come. God is GOOD!

Yosemite

2011-07-27T08:30:00.001-05:00

In case any of you are contemplating a vacation, I have a suggestion for you! Forget the passport, grab an RV or a tent, and head to Yosemite National Park! Wow! My boss Lori just wrote a blog about her recent vacation out there...and man does it sound AMAZING! Check out her post here. Stay tuned for my newest Delta Vacations blog, as well, it's due to be up soon. I know you're eagerly awaiting it ;-).

New blog

2011-07-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

Check out my new blog! I have to figure out the balance between having 2 blogs...I liked this one too much to revamp it, so just started a new one. Something that God has laid on my heart (to just write and see where He takes me). I would love it if you'd check it out!

No Speeding

2011-06-16T17:39:00.000-05:00

I just came across something I wrote down a year ago. It threw me for a loop because it's so right on and relevant for me today, and I just have to share it!

One thing at a time. One step in the next direction. Life goes slower than we think it will. God knows we’re waiting. He’s taking it slow for a reason. If we got what we wanted as fast as we want it, would it really be a good thing? Would we learn anything about Him along the way? Nah…we’d just keep on speeding and tell God to catch up with us. And that’s not gonna work.

Wow! Sometimes it's a great thing to go through things you've written down in the past, since at least for me, I tend to forget a lot of what I learned, no matter how much I might have thought I would always remember it! I feel like I am doing a lot of re-learning about this lately. Hold up...wait a second...maybe because God's ways are higher than our ways, and His timing better than ours, that this waiting is for a reason. Even though we don't like it...maybe we'll look back and understand someday why we waited for whatever we're waiting for now. And then...just maybe...we'll see He was right all along and we wouldn't want it any other way.

A bday wish :)

2011-06-06T10:23:00.000-05:00

Well, today is my birthday! The big 2-4! I have to say, there are many days throughout the year that I feel blessed, but one of the biggest is definitely my birthday, with this year being no exception. It’s a day where I feel overwhelmingly, abundantly blessed by all the genuine friendships and people in my life. It only takes one “Happy Birthday” to make me realize I am not forgotten, I am not alone, I am loved and cherished, and I have been sooo blessed by one amazing God to have the family and friends He has given me. My cup runneth over.

This brings me to desire this sweet blessing for every person in this world, that they may know how deeply they are loved by their Creator. This includes all the lost and hurting…all the orphans and widows…and especially those caught in sex slavery, who may never hear an “I love you” in their lifetime…who may never understand what true love and joy and happiness and friendship feels like. Those who are used and abandoned and hopeless and broken. They deserve the love I have been given, so much more than I do!

In honor of my birthday, would you, instead of giving me that coffee giftcard (because you know how much I love coffee!), would you instead give a gift to Compassion, or Mission of Mercy, or Feed My Starving Children, or Children’s Cup, or Venture Expeditions, or Blood:Water Mission, or Road of Resistance, or World Vision, or Children to Love International, or Convoy of Hope, or Love 146, or TheA21Campaign? Wherever you feel led? This would make me so very happy!

Thank you so much for all the birthday wishes!!! You, my awesome friends and family, have each blessed me more than you could ever know! I love you all!!!

Moving Forward

2011-05-19T16:51:00.000-05:00

I'm excited about what one of my favorite organizations, Venture Expeditions, is doing, and thought I'd give them a little shout out and post their latest video update here. It's pretty cool...they're launching something called Venture Local which will help people raise money for issues they're passionate about, all while staying in the Twin Cities or wherever you live. So if you don't have time to commit to a huge Venture trip, yet still want to be involved, you can now do that. And I think that's so awesome. So check out what Aaron and Ryan have to say, and give them some props, a shout out, comment, whatever, and let them know how excited you are about it, too :)

The Next Chapter from Venture Expeditions on Vimeo.

Hiking for Hope

2011-05-06T13:21:00.000-05:00

So a couple months ago I was asked to write an article on human trafficking for the NCU magazine, and since I hadn't done anything of the sort for quite some time, I was all for it. I really enjoyed writing it, since I am passionate about the issue, and I was able to feature an awesome organization, Venture Expeditions, as well as an incredible girl named Renae Post, alumni of North Central and uber-passionate about the issue of human trafficking, as well. It was just a great mix and I'm happy to say I'm super excited about how it turned out :-). The NCU marketing guys sure made this look good! Props to Jeff Hathaway and Ryan Decker and team...you guys rock!

Venture has also been kind enough to post the article on their blog, so here's a link to it if you'd like to check it out there.

I'm also including a link to NCU's online magazine...just page through until you find the "Hiking for Hope" spread :-)

AND, as if you weren't tired enough already of the article...I'm including a picture of it...because...well...not about to float my own boat but totally want to give a shout out to NCU's graphic design guys...I think it looks sweet and Renae and Venture definitely deserve the feature.

So all in all, I'm just a wee bit excited about it :-) Hope you enjoy, it's hot off the press!

Blog from Talkin' Travel

2011-05-02T13:13:00.000-05:00

If you're like me and longing to go someplace warm right now...I'd suggest the Riviera Maya, Mexico :-) Just a little something I wrote for the Delta Vacations blog :) Enjoy!

http://blog.deltavacations.com/2011/04/riviera-maya/

Road of Resistance

2011-04-13T10:23:00.000-05:00

This video has rocked my world. My heart has been here for the past year, since one of my dear missionary friends works closely with the Karen people. I knew I needed to watch this the minute I found out about it. But I didn’t realize the full impact it would have on me. I am forever changed. I knew God has placed something on my heart, and I still don’t know the extent of it, but I do know He is calling me to help. I know that God places people and things in our lives for a reason.

THE ROAD from Road of Resistance on Vimeo.

If this moves you, please do something about this. Tell someone about it. Show this to your friends and family. Find out how you can get involved and help. Road of Resistance and Venture Expeditions are 2 organizations working to combat this horrible genocide. Get involved today. Don’t wait a second longer. The time is now.

Listen

2011-03-30T22:16:00.000-05:00

I've felt like I need to post from my journal lately, so here is another one for you. I wrote it last month. Just something God impressed upon my heart.

Don't give up on yourself, and don't give up on God. He's HERE. RIGHT NOW. He never left your side. And He never will leave you. Give yourself a chance to sit still. Soak Him in. Sit in His presence. LISTEN. Wait. No talking allowed. You've asked. Now listen & wait, because He'll answer. He promised that when you seek Him, you'll find Him. When you ask, you'll receive. When you knock, the door will be opened. So then. It's really only a matter of time. You're ready, right? You're open and willing to receive whatever He chooses to give you? You're willing to act when He calls you? To go wherever and whenever He leads? Sometimes it seems so bleak. Distant. But don't let it get you down. Fight to keep close to God. He's never left your side. He believes in you, and loves you way to much for words to begin to describe. So don't give up on yourself. He's right by your side. Ask, and then listen. Be still, and wait for Him. He's HERE. Now. Let Him speak to your heart & draw you closer to Him.

He's waiting for you to listen.

Moldova

2011-03-23T21:34:00.004-05:00

I'm going to be posting a few different times about my trip to Moldova to give you a visual of what it was like. First things first. The culture.

Let me give you a background...my good friend Kalyna, her husband Patrick, and their 3 small boys moved to Moldova this past summer to be missionaries and work with victims of sex trafficking at a safe home there. Really awesome and it was so neat to be able to go visit them and see what life is like for them. The culture is very different, very Russian, and because Moldova is a former Soviet country, when you go out in public, no one smiles and it seems like almost everyone is wearing black. This is because when they were under Soviet rule, they were only allowed to wear 3 colors -- black, white, and grey -- so even today, the culture seems void of color, save for the few younger people we'd see every once in a while, bucking the trend and wearing a splash of bright color. When out in public in the Soviet era, if anyone had any expression on their face, they could be targeted for whatever reason. So everyone went outside with a deadpan, almost bored expression, which has become an ingrained part of their culture today. It took me a while to figure it out until the 2nd day in, when after traveling around on public transportation for long enough, I just wanted someone to smile at me (Picture me trying to fit in while out in public, not smiling. You're right. It didn't work very well!). :) But...Moldovans are extremely friendly and hospitable people. It was a very interesting piece of their culture to notice, though.

A real battle

2011-03-10T21:24:00.000-06:00

There is a real spiritual battle going on all around us. Praise God that it's invisible, or I've come to realize that all of us would be so shaken to the core we wouldn't be able to function. It's too much for our human minds to grasp. But it is VERY REAL and should be take VERY SERIOUSLY. It should not be ignored. In the book I'm reading, Spiritual Warfare and Missions, they make some very interesting statements. On page 33, they say:

Could it be possible that someone would really be at work to send people to hell? Satan would prefer us to be ashamed at his existence and put him in the category of mythology. We underestimate our enemy and accuser when God's Word is sadly embraced as a book of anecdotal, sweet stories with solid advice on how to make good decisions. Although on a macro level the Bible assures us we win, we skip the details of the gruesome confrontations along the way to victory.

AND

They (the disciples) learned that one size did not fit all in their confrontations with darkness. Faith in God gives a disciple authority to confront because he knows he does not fight Satan in his own strength. Our inappropriate fear of the devil can be traced to our lack of confidence in God's ability, not ours.

WOW. The spiritual world is very real and battles are fought every day. And I think for those of us who are missions minded, it's an even bigger deal because when we go on the mission field, we are absolutely SURE to encounter it. Because Satan does not want us to go and spread God's Word and tell the world of His love for them. Satan wants everyone to stay deceived by the lies he's conceived. Religions so close to the truth yet just off, so they seem right and so gain followers, convinced they are on the right road, when in fact these poor people couldn't be farther from it. So close, yet so far. It's so sad. And it builds up this righteous anger within me. I have friends dealing with some pretty heavy spiritual attacks. And the reason I know they're spiritual is because they manifest themselves in an almost physical way, and consume my dear friends so much that they can hardly stand against it. That's when I have come to realize God's great plan for my friends. Satan doesn't want them to move forward, so he comes against them in the strongest way he knows how - fear. AND HE HAS NO PLACE NEAR US. HE IS NOT ALLOWED. IN JESUS' NAME! It's righteous anger that builds inside of me. As sons and daughters of the Most High God, Satan cannot touch us. But He will try to get as close as He can. It's a very real battle. One that is most definitely NOT of flesh and blood. One that is fought with prayer and seeking God and letting Him fight for us, knowing He is protecting us and that we are His. The battle is won. But it is not over yet. So the devil will keep fighting. And we must keep fighting and realize the reality of it. We cannot lose sight of it. It is SO important.

And in the midst of this, it is good to realize how essential it is to be intentional about our relationship with God. It really struck me, on page 36, where they say:

Satan does not have to tempt us to embrace sinful living that would destroy our witness. All he has to do is divert our focus.

Wow. And it hit me. He is very good at diverting our focus. Think about how much time we spend on Facebook versus spending time reading His Word. Just an observation in my life - that's something I struggle with. It is amazing when you think about it, isn't it? The battle is real. When we all realize that, God's kingdom will advance even farther.

On page 44 of the book, it says:

We are told, "Be sober! Be on the alert! Your adversary the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour. Resist him, firm in the faith" (1 Pet. 5:8-9). Our enemy is not a house pet who likes to nip at our heels. He is not even satisfied with trying to trip us up with temptation and occasional trivial sins. He seeks our total destruction...He will do whatever he can to thwart God's people from fulfilling God's mission.

But God is BIGGER. He is more powerful. And through Him we have authority over Satan and the powers of darkness. We, not through ourselves, but through God, who enables and empowers us. God's mission and plan will prevail. But it is a real battle, and we need to be aware of it. To Him be the Glory and Power and Honor, FOREVER, Amen!

Obedience

2011-03-08T08:22:00.000-06:00

We are called to it. We really struggle with it. Or maybe I'm the only one who does? :-P But obedience is one of those things that are absolutely necessary to our walk with Christ. The road we walk on is going to be filled with plenty of ups and downs. More than we'd like, I think. But Jesus tells us to follow him. To walk with Him. He's told me more than once to take his hand, walk with him because he knows the way, and to not look back no matter what we're leaving behind, because while earthly things call our name and might look nice, or maybe earthly struggles try to maintain their grip on us, what Jesus has for us is far better than anything we can imagine. He knows every step. He knows every pebble on the road, all the dust we'll encounter, all the hills and valleys and twists and turns, and in fact, He knows it so well that He could walk the road blindfolded. So I choose to trust Him and be obedient in following Him, because He obviously knows best and knows what's ahead so much better than I ever could.

Questioning

2011-03-03T10:06:00.001-06:00

Do you ever have days where you question everything about your life? Everything you've done, motives, everything you want to do, why you want to do that or shouldn't do that, etc? Do you ever have to constantly remind yourself who it is who's really in control...and that it's God and NOT you?

Do you ever have days where you yearn for something that you might be working towards but don't have a way of doing yet? Do you ever question your faith, or at least the heart and motive behind it?

Just wondering. Because I do.

And God has told me quite clearly. Stop questioning. When you know you're supposed to act, do it. Don't question it. Why NOT do it if you know it's from me? Why not take advantage of the opportunities before you to be My light to those around you? Why not? Why wouldn't you? Don't let the world get in the way. Don't worry about what the world thinks. Why should you care? It's Me you're doing this for. And I'm very proud of you. More proud than you can realize. I am with You. Do NOT be afraid. My rod and my staff will comfort you. I will provide. Rest under the shadow of my wings, trust in my mighty arm to hold you up. Speak my name. Show my love. Shine my light. I am with you always. Be not afraid, for I love you, darling child. You are mine and I am yours. Unmistakable is our love. So stop questioning. Haven't I shown you already in many different ways that I am with you?

Off on an adventure...

2011-02-16T16:38:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow I fly across the ocean to Moldova to visit my sweet missionary friends and do life with them for about 10 days. They work at a Freedom Home for girls and women who have been trafficked into sex slavery and have escaped with nowhere to go. Oftentimes they are disowned or sold by their own families or someone close to them from their village, so they cannot go home. How tragic. I try to imagine myself in that situation and find it almost impossible to even think about. But these girls have gone through and deal with the unimaginable daily. And that's why my friends are in Moldova, ministering to these precious girls. Because the only real healing and restoration can come from Christ and Christ ALONE. Because without the beautiful Hope that comes from God, I don't know how anyone could make it after dreams and lives have been ripped to shreds, all for the sake of money and because man must have his pleasure. That might sound harsh, but it's the sad, brutal truth. I believe God will bring justice for what has happened to these girls and what is happening to so many -- MILLIONS -- across the globe. It breaks my heart and is so hard to comprehend that humans really still do this to each other. You'd think we'd have learned by now. But someone always takes advantage, don't they? When I think of these things, I am so grateful for the promise of Heaven, for a new body and no pain. How happy that day will be!

My friends are bringing hope and healing in the name of Jesus to the people of Moldova, and also educating them on the dangers of sex trafficking and how to combat/prevent it. Raising awareness. Moldova is such a poor country that most of the people need to look outside of it for work, so in a trafficker's mind, the people are ripe for the plucking. One life saved at a time. It's a slow process. But by raising awareness and bringing healing, there is hope. God is bigger.

I am just excited spend time with my friends and see what their life is like in Moldova. How they are getting used to a new culture and language. And I'm also really looking forward to some HUGE hugs when we meet at the airport. That moment will be awesome. It puts a huge grin on my face just thinking about it :).

I will try to blog/tweet/facebook about my travels as much as I am able, and will be taking plenty of pictures, which I'll share when I'm back home. Love you all, thanks for reading!

A little jealous

2011-02-14T12:00:00.000-06:00

A dear, sweet family, the Princes, just moved to Swaziland, Africa, a couple days ago. I miss them already. I love their precious kiddies. I just oh-so-love this family in general, they are so genuine and embody Christ’s love to everyone around them. Swaziland will be forever changed because of them and what God’s going to do through them. And I have to admit, I’m a little jealous! Not in a bad sort of way, but in a “Wow, they are where they’re supposed to be” kind of way. They are in Africa! The place where God has called them. It’s just SO COOL! My little missionary heart yearns for that…that “new place” excitement…exploring the new scenery, culture, people…the trusting God every step of the way, every moment of the day part, because it’s the way life is over there…
And I long for that. To be in the place God has called me to be. With that assurance that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be. The excitement of exploring that new place, culture, people, and realizing you already have a deep, unexplained love for them that could only come from God.

I don’t know…maybe it’s the travel bug, or a fascination with the idea of missions, or maybe, just maybe, it’s really God who is tugging on my heart. In what direction, I don’t know specifically yet, but I’m starting to figure out a couple distinct passions that He has given me. How I will direct those passions into ministry and my life in general, I don’t yet know. That’s okay. I just want to follow Him and love others the way that He loves me. I want to make a difference. So it starts with saying yes, every day, to His calling. To remembering daily the price He paid for me, because He loved me so much, so how can I help but praise Him and show others this great love?

A little jealous of the sweet Prince family today as they explore and enjoy the mysteries of their new home. And, I’m looking forward to what God has in store, not just for me, but for everyone I know and for my church, because God is up to something big. He always has been, and always will be, but in this moment, I know without a doubt that He has a plan and wants us to be a part of it. What is your part in God’s plan? Pray about it. Seek Him. He’ll tell you. Our God is such a trustworthy, AWESOME, HUGE God. He knows you. He loves you. He’s calling you. Can you hear Him? It all starts with being willing and saying yes to Him. The best is yet to come!

Whispers in the Wind

2011-02-10T09:31:00.000-06:00

This is a poem I wrote when I was in high school. I used to write a lot of poems then. I still like to do it, but don't get to often. It's one of those things that with a spark of inspiration, the whole thing just flies from my brain all the way to my fingertips, and I can't help but race to find a pen or a computer so I can jot it down before it's gone. It's almost always in praise to God, too, which is the best :). I love writing to please and praise Him! So anyways, hope you enjoy...for some reason this has always been a favorite. A little ethereal, too. I love picturing angels surrounding me, protecting me. God is always near.

Whispers in the Wind

Hark, a silent breath,

whispers in the wind.

Gently flowing here, there,

never ceasing.

The brush of angels’ wings

cascading down the stair,

to help me know

I’m not alone;

He’s with me everywhere.

My God, my God,

I’m in your tender care,

help me to know,

I’m not alone,

that you’re with me everywhere.

Hark, the brush of angels’, wings.

Listen,

and you shall hear,

the gentle whispers,

faint,

but there.

Then you’ll know you’re not alone,

He’s with you everywhere.

Lessons from Vietnam

2011-02-06T14:47:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share something I wrote 2 years ago after my trip to Thailand and Vietnam. I was going through some older files today and discovered it, and as I read it, it felt like I was re-learning all over again. This is exactly why journaling while on a trip like this is so important, because we capture things and learn so many little things that we quickly forget once we're home.

When I think of my trip to Vietnam with River Valley Church, there’s so much I could say. I am amazed at how God’s purpose, plan, and protection were so evident in everything we did. I’m amazed at how much I learned…at how I realized that it’s never about what I do on my own, but what God does through me, that really matters.

A good chunk of our trip was focused on ministering to children whose families lived in the poorest of slums in Vietnam. We took them to a waterpark, where they rarely get to go. As I played, splashed, giggled, hugged, and held these precious children, I learned that love truly does speak louder than words. These children didn’t need words to know they were loved! Love breaks down any barrier, including language. Though they chattered on and on to me in their language, and no matter how hard I tried to understand them, I couldn’t talk to these children. But through smiles and laughter and open arms, I realized that I could still communicate one thing to them, and that was how much God loves them.

I guess that’s what struck me about this trip. I can’t do anything on my own. No amount of strength or will or determination was ever going to help me help and love others unless I let God work through me first. He showed me how good He is, how He works incredible miracles in situations that we can’t even imagine or comprehend as citizens of a free United States of America. Stories of deliverance and stories of perseverance all lead back to love and trust only in God. He is the source of true strength. And His promises never fail. When you lean on Him and love as He loves, and trust God as a child trusts, you’ll break through any barrier.

Love this!!!

2011-01-17T09:54:00.000-06:00

I had to share this, courtesy of Lindsay Willis. She is amazing and this is amazing. I want this to be my prayer every day!

Heavenly Father, Sovereign LORD, give me Your words of wisdom, so that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning please waken me and open my understanding to Your will. Heavenly Father, Sovereign LORD, speak to me, and I will listen. I will obey; I will not rebel or turn away.

Fasting

2011-01-12T19:57:00.003-06:00

Today was a day of fasting. For the first time in a long time. And it is challenging. Going for an entire day without food is a crazy thought. After years of eating every day, all of the sudden I'm not going to eat for an entire day? Yes, it sounds crazy. I laugh at myself, because even as I sit here with my mouth salivating at the thought of food, I realize how totally dependent I am on food to make me comfortable, give me energy, and keep me going throughout the day. I noticed while I don't feel as hungry as I thought I would (it's probably because my metabolism never really kicked in today), that I am craving everything. I catch myself on autopilot to the fridge or pantry, and have to stop and remind myself that today is a day of fasting. You're the only one I would ever do this for, Lord, I pray, and the only reason I'm sticking with this! And it's true. But it's really good. Bonding time with the Lord. Focusing in on Him and and what He has for me today. Fasting isn't glamorous at all. In fact, it's really hard. And while invigorating, at the same time, at the really low points of the day when you're really hungry, it feels really dry, too. It doesn't feel like anything bigger or better. But the whole reason is breakthrough. Conquering self. Tuning in to God's heart. And staying there.

The Awake 21 blog really encouraged me today.

When we pray and fast, we don’t do so to change God or His will; by praying and fasting, we are the ones changed.

I read that, sat back in my chair, and went, "Whoa." It's so true. This is the first time I've fasted in a very long time, and it's a personal struggle. It's almost like telling my body for the first time in a long time that it doesn't really have control of me, that God is more important to me than food or drink. I don't mean to brag at all by this. It's like a personal admission for me. I haven't wanted to fast because I haven't been willing to give up the simple pleasure and God-given gift of eating. It is a gift. I think of all the people across the world who are going hungry tonight, and not by choice. For me, I get to choose it. But they don't. And that kicks me in the gut. For me, the only side effects I'm experiencing at the moment are a growling stomach, heightened sensitivity (ex. more annoyed and cranky), and lack of focus and energy. Think that at least x10 for them. It blows me away. I think that's been the purpose of this fasting day. God wanted me to realize on a deeper level what people across the world are experiencing right now, and have been for centuries. That puts so much more importance on the work that Feed My Starving Children, Compassion International, Samaritan's Purse, Children's Cup, and so many more ministries are doing.

And speaking of relief work, today is the 1 year anniversary of the Haiti earthquake. It is mind-boggling to think that that happened an entire year ago. It feels like yesterday. Don't forget to pray for them! God is doing HUGE things down there - revivals, bringing people to Him, stirring up His people and working through awesome organizations to bring aid. But there's still a lot of work to be done there, so don't let it get off of your radar!

Venture

2010-11-26T17:54:00.002-06:00

Check out this awesome nonprofit organization. I've had the pleasure of meeting some of the founders...incredible people who God has blessed with huge hearts and passions for the lost and hurting in our world. If you are an adventure junkie, avid cyclist, hardcore hiker, or just love going on trips to raise awareness about injustice and poverty, this is the place for you.

Joshua 1 takeaway

2010-11-08T09:04:00.000-06:00

Be strong and courageous...

I love how God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous, and then repeats it, telling him to be strong and VERY courageous, and that He will never leave him or forsake him.

I never thought about it this way, but what if whatever we set our minds to do, when called by Christ, will be done because God is with us? It will be done because He has called us and is with us. He is calling us to be courageous. To radically trust Him. But oftentimes before we see the end result, we must act first. Act in order to see Him move. Go, because I’m telling You to, is almost what I hear God saying, and then You will see why. But you must first ACT. Take action. Now you are aware. Now you see. Now you hear. So go. Be my voice. Shine my love. And I will be with you all the way.

Save 1,000 lives

2010-10-15T08:57:00.000-05:00

Jon Acuff's blog Stuff Christians Like is partnering with an organization called SafeWorld to save 1,000 lives in the Nakaseke District, of Uganda, by purchasing malaria nets. Each net costs $10. JUST $10! That's not very much, and it’s that simple. 1 net, costs $10, and will save at least 1 life. More than a million people die each year from malaria, and sadly, the majority of them are under the age of 5. WE CAN CHANGE THAT!

So go, right now, to Jon's blog post and click the link to donate. I believe this will change lives, and yes, it's something small, but sometimes that's all it takes to make a huge difference in someone's life. Let's show them the love of Jesus! That's what gets me so excited.

Unpredictable

2010-10-11T13:48:00.000-05:00

A thought for today.

Life. It's unpredictable. It will throw things at you that you never expected and definitely didn't see coming. But in the midst of whatever it is you're facing, life is STILL worth living, every day, every moment, every minute, and with every breath God gives you! Life is a God-given gift to be cherished. How do you view your life?

Psalm 91

2010-09-14T15:29:00.000-05:00

My God shelters me under the shadow of His wings. Which means He watches over me. Protects me. Keeps me out of harm's way. This chapter in the Psalms is so beautiful, and I especially love how the Message version puts it:

You who sit down in the High God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow, Say this: "God, you're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!"

That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you—under them you're perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm.

Fear nothing—not wild wolves in the night, not flying arrows in the day, Not disease that prowls through the darkness, not disaster that erupts at high noon.

Even though others succumb all around, drop like flies right and left, no harm will even graze you.

You'll stand untouched, watch it all from a distance, watch the wicked turn into corpses.

Yes, because God's your refuge, the High God your very own home, Evil can't get close to you, harm can't get through the door.

He ordered his angels to guard you wherever you go.

If you stumble, they'll catch you; their job is to keep you from falling.

You'll walk unharmed among lions and snakes, and kick young lions and serpents from the path.

"If you'll hold on to me for dear life," says God, "I'll get you out of any trouble. I'll give you the best of care if you'll only get to know and trust me. Call me and I'll answer, be at your side in bad times; I'll rescue you, then throw you a party. I'll give you a long life, give you a long drink of salvation!"

Baking Endeavors

2010-09-10T17:00:00.002-05:00

I've decided to go on a baking frenzy for a day. I have a good friend's baby shower coming up, and another good friend and I are in charge of making the desserts. We have a few ideas, but there is the possibility that we're jumping in over our heads. The question is...will it be too overwhelming for non-bakers who are just used to mixing up chocolate chip cookies, brownies, or cake-in-a-box? I've done a little bit of baking, but nothing too huge. And I think this might be quite the adventure. Here are our ideas.

First on the dessert menu are delicious white-chocolate-banana crème brulée tarts. I borrowed the recipe from one of my co-workers and am pretty confident they'll be a hit. I'll try to remember to post pictures of them! I'm not usually a banana dessert person, but these are to-die-for. Just thinking of them makes my mouth water...

Second on the list is the cake. Now this is the big deal.

We've been going back and forth about whether to just do cupcakes, or to do a big sheet cake or one of those fabulous baby-belly cakes, like you see below.

And, on top of that, we have to decide what type of cake to make. Our friend loves fruit and cheesecake, so I think we decided upon a lemon-raspberry flavor, and cheesecake frosting. How does that sound? Overwhelming? Delicious? Delightful? I mean, my goodness, how could you resist this?

We want to attempt fondant, too. I figure if worst comes to worst and we fail, we'll have delicious buttercream frosting to fall back on.

My other idea is (since we might not have the same-shaped cake pans to make the baby-belly cake above) to make a sheet cake and mold rice krispie treats into the baby belly shape, place it on top of the sheet cake, and cover that in fondant. So we get the delicious cake but don't miss out on the fun of the baby belly. OR we make a dozen smaller cakes out of cupcakes, which could be fun, too.

So...that's it in a nutshell. My mom has some wonderful cake decorating supplies, so that will help very much when we try to decorate the cake, whatever it ends up to be. I'll post pictures of course, but what do you think? Are we, as novice bakers, crazy to attempt this? AND...do you think we can do it? We're both just a little bit excited about being this adventurous.

I'll put it to a vote. Let me know which one you think would be better/more fun.
1. The big baby-belly cake
2. Sheet cake topped with molded rice krispie treats
3. A dozen small baby-belly cakes

And...do you have any fun ideas/recipes that might be fun for us to try?

Camping on the North Shore!

2010-09-03T08:48:00.000-05:00

Lake Superior up on the North Shore is probably, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful places on earth. Really. Every time I go there I'm in awe. I was able to go camping up there last weekend with a few friends...we had an absolute BLAST and didn't stop laughing the entire trip! God's blessed me with incredible friendships and lots of people who like the same things I do...which is amazing. Highlights of the weekend were:

Rounding the bend to see the gorgeous Baptism River waterfall on our "dangerous" evening hike
Clifftop chats
Spontaneous singing around the campfire
Making chocolate chip cookie s'mores...the newest, greatest invention!
Watching the stars
Searching for agates
The best morning devo EVER
Mattress surfing!!! Oh yes we did!
Watching the fog roll in across Lake Superior

There's so much more I could say. But I think I'll leave it at that for now. It was a fabulous weekend. Can't wait for next year! :-)

I've included a couple photos my friends took. Here is a snapshot of our weekend :).

My favorite beach

In front of the amazing waterfall

Baptism River at dusk

Hiking Shovel Point

Girl time :)

Giant JENGA, anyone?

MATTRESS SURFING! :)

In Your Arms

2010-09-02T10:08:00.000-05:00

I'm on a song 'kick,' I think, because it seems like every day there's a new song I'm loving. Today it's "In Your Arms" by Meredith Andrews. This song is so beautiful and real. It's so true for many of us, I think, with how busy we are. It sort of hones in on how easy it is to lose focus of the One thing that matters, which is Jesus. It also puts into words the one thing I so many times want to do...drown out the world and focus on Him. But then I get distracted. And that's not where I want to be. I want to be in His arms. Showered in endless grace. Giving Him my fears, because He is bigger. Letting go of the world and grabbing hold of Jesus. Letting Him hold me. Ahh. I am tearing up and in awe of this ridiculous love He has for me. For all of us.

I hope you enjoy this song as much as I do!

In Your Arms

I’m turning the world off

Embracing the silence

Walking away from all the voices

That are Screaming in my ear

I've been too caught up

I've been so stressed out

All of the noise replaced the whisper

That used to be so clear

So I close every door

Put my face back on the floor

And I'm in Your arms

Where I belong

There's no other place for me

Than right where You are

Some things just don't change

When I call Your name

You never hesitate to wrap me in endless grace

When I'm in Your arms

I’m letting my fears go

Giving You control

For You are the one who holds me closer

In my soul's darkest night

Everything I see

Is so temporary

So help me to run the race before me

With eternity in sight

Now I close every door

Put my face back on the floor

To sit at Your feet

At Your table of mercy

To gaze on Your beauty, my Lord

To drink from Your well

And be changed by Your glory

How could I ask for more

Jesus, how could I ask for more

While I'm Waiting

2010-08-30T17:25:00.000-05:00

This song by John Waller is totally me right now. It speaks straight to my heart, and I wanted to share the lyrics with you. I LOVE IT!!!!!

I'm waiting

I'm waiting on You, Lord

And I am hopeful

I'm waiting on You, Lord

Though it is painful

But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident

Taking every step in obedience

While I'm waiting

I will serve You

While I'm waiting

I will worship

While I'm waiting

I will not faint

I'll be running the race

Even while I wait

I'm waiting

I'm waiting on You, Lord

And I am peaceful

I'm waiting on You, Lord

Though it's not easy

But faithfully, I will wait

Yes, I will wait

I will serve You while I'm waiting

I will worship while I'm waiting

I will serve You while I'm waiting

I will worship while I'm waiting

I will serve you while I'm waiting

I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

Verse of the day

2010-08-23T08:41:00.000-05:00

I read this yesterday...totally love it!

Colossians 1:15-20

[Who is Jesus?]

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross."

Soul Searching

2010-08-18T18:15:00.012-05:00

Soul (definition) - The spiritual or immaterial part of a human being or animal, regarded as immortal/the essence of something
_________________________________________________________

This is a really deep post...but I can't help it. I'm curious, and want to know what you think!

After a few conversations I’ve had this week…talking about death and life and God and souls…I wanted to pose a question. How much do you know about your soul? Or...how much do you think about it?

I’m convinced that our souls take up more of us than we could ever realize. Think about it. If you’ve ever been to a funeral, the person doesn’t look at all like themselves. It’s like something is majorly missing. Maybe that’s because their soul has left. And it’s just the shell behind.

It seems to me that my soul is such an intrinsic part of me that I can’t even really identify where it begins and ends and what it truly means and contributes to my every day life. At least I can’t figure it out. Maybe because it’s such a built-in, automatic part of me, that with God as the center of my life, it has fused with the rest of me. But then I think, if we leave behind our bodies, our earthly shells behind when we pass away…then my soul is me. My soul is really who I am. It is tangible and real.

I don’t understand it at all. The more I think about it, the more I get confused. But I am certain our souls, whether we realize it or not, do exist and are there to remind us of our Maker, our King, our God.

Can you distinguish between “normal” excitement and “soul” excitement? For me, I can tell that my soul is reacting when I can literally feel it leaping inside of me…welling up inside my chest…like if it wasn’t inside of me it would be going crazy with joy and excitement because it knows God is near, God is with me, God is bigger than anything that could come against me.

What do you know about your soul?

Oh the places I have been…

2010-08-10T17:00:00.001-05:00

God makes life exciting…have you realized that yet? Since I started going to RVC, He’s sent me on 5 mission trips over 7 years, to 8 different countries. As a result, my heart has been broken for the hurting, the helpless, the broken, and the poor, especially the orphans, the victims, and the exploited.

Throughout the years, I’ve gained (and am still cultivating) precious friendships with people who have the same heart and same passion I do. It’s awesome. I love how God brings the right people into your life, in so many different ways, but always at just the right time. The encouragement, support, and excitement that stems from friendships like this is incredible. Conversations are amazing—God-focused, missions-focused—and as a result, when I’m with my friends, I get this awesome vision of what life is supposed to be like.

When we align ourselves with God’s mission and follow His lead wholeheartedly, it seems that while life gets a lot harder at times, it’s also so much more rewarding and exciting, because the right people are by your side to encourage you and support you, and you, in return, do the same for them. Walking by faith is not easy. I’m still learning…will always be learning, I guess. But as I see where I’ve come from and I get random glimpses of the places I’ve yet to go and the things I have yet to do…I am more and more certain that God truly is in control.

Most of all, I want to be aligned with His will and walking hand-in-hand with God. On that path, I know I will meet the people I’m supposed to and go exactly where He wants me. The circumstances in life that I am hoping for will come at the right time when I’m walking with Him. I’m trusting and believing in that, because I know His plan is bigger and better than mine.

I wish I could see down the road a couple years. Especially now as I’m gaining more and more of a heart for missions and becoming more kingdom-minded. I feel like it’s a daily transformation, and one that I will need to be deliberate about making a priority. Because the world can so often get in the way.

But I know where I’ve been, and the places I’ve visited and the people I’ve met have solidified an excitement for the things of God and a yearning to do His will, to love the orphans and refugees and take care of those who can’t help themselves. To step out and seek justice for the oppressed and make a difference for even one person.

It’s a process. A life-changing process.

Keep moving forward

2010-08-06T12:00:00.011-05:00

There are so many things on my mind. It's all jumbled together. But one thing I know is that God has this perfect plan for my life. I can only see a step ahead of me. And in order to continue to see that next step, I have to keep walking forward. I love this illustration, because it's so true and such a good reminder. It's like driving home on an extremely dark and densely foggy road. Your car lights only shine a few feet in front of you and you creep along nervously...you have no idea where you're going, and you can only really see as far as your car lights shine in front of you. And you have to keep moving, or you're stuck. But hey, good news! You have the light with you, illuminating the darkness around you.

I feel like that is a good depiction of our walk by faith. God leads us step by step. He sees the bigger picture, but we can only see so far in front of us. We may get a glimpse through the fog from time to time, but in general, we're relying on the light and relying on the road to illuminate in front of us as we go forward.

The kicker is, we have to move forward in order to see what's ahead. So even in the waiting periods of our lives, we still need to be moving forward. God will place the things He has for us in His perfect time, and we need to be expectant and ready to keep moving until and as that next step is unveiled.

Reminds me of James 2:14-26. And one of the most well-known verses, vs.17, says, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

We can have all the faith in the world, but if we don't take action, if we don't step out and move forward as a result of that faith, then it's as if we don't have any at all.

So much on my heart

2010-08-02T08:55:00.000-05:00

I just started reading, or rather listening to a recording of "A Hole in Our Gospel" by Richard Stearns. Oh my goodness. SO incredible. It's already gotten me tearing up today on the way to work and back...I just know it's going to rock my world.

Remembering

2010-07-28T18:31:00.000-05:00

I have so much on my heart right now. So many things I'm thinking about and praying about. My world is getting rocked by God, I can tell. I'm developing a passion for helping the hurting and the broken. I just want to love on them. I want them to know God's love and understand His HOPE...so they don't have to be hopeless and helpless and lost anymore. I want to heal the hurting and sick. Eradicate suffering and brokenness. Bring justice to those who have been wronged. Freedom from slavery and oppression.

The burden is SO heavy. There's no way I can carry any of it on my own. I would fall apart. Only by the grace of God am I saved. Only through Jesus do I have that same redemption that I seek for others to have, too. Like I said, I just want them to know God's deep, compassionate, whole and complete love for them.

All my mission trips are coming to mind, specifically Thailand and Vietnam. I came across something I wrote after I returned from the trip 2 years ago...and I really wanted to share it with you. I hope it encourages you just like it did me, and that maybe God will light a fire within YOU, too, to shine His love to the people He has called you to. :)

When I think of my trip to Vietnam with River Valley Church, there’s so much I could say. I am amazed at how God’s purpose, plan, and protection were so evident in everything we did. I’m amazed at how much I learned…at how I realized that it’s never about what I do on my own, but what God does through me, that really matters.

A good chunk of our trip was focused on ministering to children whose families lived in the poorest of slums in Vietnam. We took them to a waterpark, where they rarely get to go. As I played, splashed, giggled, hugged, and held these precious children, I learned that love truly does speak louder than words. These children didn’t need words to know they were loved! Love breaks down any barrier, including language. Though they chattered on and on to me in their language, and no matter how hard I tried to understand them, I couldn’t talk to these children. But through smiles and laughter and open arms, I realized that I could still communicate one thing to them, and that was how much God loves them.

I guess that’s what struck me about this trip. I can’t do anything on my own. No amount of strength or will or determination was ever going to help me help and love others unless I let God work through me first. He showed me how good He is, how He works incredible miracles in situations that we can’t even imagine or comprehend as citizens of a free United States of America. Stories of deliverance and stories of perseverance all lead back to love and trust only in God. He is the source of true strength. And His promises never fail. When you lean on Him and love as He loves, and trust God as a child trusts, you’ll break through any barrier.

One big adventure

2010-07-17T16:41:00.002-05:00

Do you ever have this urge to go on a big adventure and travel the world? I do.
It comes and goes, but when it comes, it’s so strong I can hardly stand it! It makes me just want to jump in the car, drive to the airport, and head off somewhere exotic. I don’t want to go by myself, of course, but with a good friend or two, it would be perfect. But that also makes it complicated.

But, if it’s meant to be…we’d call each other and go hop on a plane together, right? Haha. It’s probably not going to be that easy. Money. Time. Logistics. But just think of all the people we could meet, the places we’d see, the people we’d help, the cultures we’d experience, the organizations we could partner with…the list goes on. It’d be like one huge mission trip…except worldwide and year(s)-long.

Adrift

2010-05-28T09:44:00.000-05:00

The last couple days - I’ve been thinking about life. Missing Europe. Wondering about what’s to come. Wanting to get my butt moving in a direction I can see, feel, etc. These thoughts are common after a mission trip. You start thinking, ‘where the HECK is my life going?’ and 'what can I do to change it?' It’s a time of praying, God, what do you want from me? Seeking.

At the moment I feel adrift. Adrift in a flurry of activities - where I can see God working and moving and tangibly alive - and at the same time I’m questioning every part of my life, such as my real reason for doing things, my motives, the heart and passion behind what I call faith.

I want to make every second we had over in Europe count. I want to write. I journaled while we were over there, but now that I'm back, it's hard to focus. To grab a hold of those thoughts and tie down something concrete.

So the problem is…I just don’t know what to write yet.

Stand for You

2010-05-14T08:27:00.000-05:00

There’s this song by Johnny Diaz that I just heard on the radio. Totally love it and have to share.

So long politics it’s time to start being me
Take the chains off my lips it’s time to set my tongue free
Some might just turn their heads but some will raise a fist
And You told me to stand so I won’t back down from this
They say there are no absolutes but are they absolutely sure

In a world that tries to water You down
Where beliefs cannot be spoken too loud
I’ll stand for truth
Where they claim Your way just isn’t wide enough
And they do their best just to cover You up
I’ll stand for You

Hello reality it’s time we embrace honesty
Teach me to speak with truth and love and humility
You made a promise that You’re coming back to earth
So how selfish am I if I don’t go tell the world
They say just be sincere but could they all just be sincerely wrong

They might remove Your name from money
But you own it all the same
They kicked You out of school that’s funny
Cause how could You go away
In a land that’s built upon Your Word
It’s amazing You’ve been banned
To think that we control You is absurd
So for truth I’m here to stand

THANK YOU to Johnny for standing up with this song. This is such a needed reminder to keep going strong! PERSEVERE. Romans 15. Hold steady. Christ IS coming back, and we need to let everyone know about it. Everyone has different ways of doing that, too…some will build relationships and live by example while others have the tenacity to just say what is. And I admire that. It’s something I need to work on.

Do you have a song that is speaking into your life right now?
I love how songs can speak exactly where we need them to...it's like God's tuning our radio for us :-)...hmmm...now that's a thought! :)

With wild abandon

2010-05-05T10:11:00.000-05:00

Wanted to share something I wrote a month ago...a moment of inspiration...wow I needed to read this again!

Seek God with your whole heart. Love Him with wild abandon. Follow Him without asking questions...just go. Why? Because He asked you to. Because His plan is bigger than yours. It's better than you can imagine. Is it going to be easy? Probably not. Should that stop you? Not at all, because if you know His true character, you know that God loves you with wild abandon. You know that He won't ever leave you or forsake you. You know that He'll take care of you. He'll sweep you off your feet. He'll drown you in His passionate love for you! When you follow Him, no matter how hard those first steps are, or how much the middle drags on, or the end will never seem to be in sight...He's with you every step of the way. Whispering to you. Walking with you. Waiting for you to seek Him more. Trust Him more. Pray more for this world and His people who desperately need Him. And you know what He wants more than anything? You to say yes. "Yes, God, I'll go." If you ask me to go, I'll follow. I'll actually, physically, get off my butt and go wherever you want me to. Because I know you'll equip me. I know you'll take care of me. I know you love me with wild abandon. I know you have incredible plans for me. You treasure me. You want to use me to further your kingdom. To shine your love to ALL nations, ALL people, so that no one can say they haven't heard of you and heard of your love and your goodness and your grace and your Son Jesus!

God, help me to be all You have created me to be!

Europe snapshot

2010-04-19T23:13:00.003-05:00

Thought I would post a couple photos from each place we stayed in Europe.It's hard to choose...but I'll give it a shot. These are photos that I took...just a snapshot of the places we went and our experiences. It was unbelievable to be there and I can't wait to go back.

Maastricht, Netherlands

Eating Olliebollen

One of the many cool squares/buildings in Maastricht

Taking a break from filming at a sidewalk cafe

Gelato!

Bastogne, Belgium

First visit to see the Clydesdales

The trees are literally like Band of Brothers

From the top of the Bastogne Memorial

Beautiful castle

Paris, France

Guess where we are...

Paris panorama

Couldn't resist French Onion soup in Paris

Eiffel during the daytime

Sacre-Cour

Blurry but fun shot of the Louvre

And that's all I have for now!

All photos ©JEischens.

According to AP...

2010-04-17T12:46:00.000-05:00

For all you techies out there...AP has finally changed its former spelling of Web site to "website." As it should be.

National Day of Prayer

2010-04-16T14:47:00.000-05:00

There is a rumor going around that President Obama cancelled the National Day of Prayer, scheduled for May 6, 2010.

Before you freak out...this rumor is false. The president did not cancel it. The National Day of Prayer will still happen. However, I don't think Obama will hold a ceremony to honor the day like President Bush did...but I could've seen that coming.

It's always wise to check out a rumor before you spread it like wildfire. I know...I started freaking out, too, then did a simple Google search, and discovered otherwise. Whew.

Still, there's a lot going on with a judge ruling the day unconstitutional. It seems to me that our nation was founded on the Christian faith, and it's worked well for us so far! I'd much rather be on God's side of things, because if we're not for Him, then it's just as good as if we were against Him. Anybody in the same boat as me on this? What are your thoughts/concerns?

On the desert road

2010-04-13T11:36:00.000-05:00

I really feel the need to link you to a post by Jon Acuff...it's exactly what I needed to hear today, and maybe - just maybe - you'll want to hear it, too.

Refusing the gift of the desert road

Trust me, it's worth the read.

A little baseball rivalry

2010-04-08T08:27:00.008-05:00

So I have this friend. He’s more like a big brother to me. But he’s a huge White Sox fan. And he’s constantly letting me know about it. So we have begun this rivalry. Turns out last night the White Sox lost and the Twins won. Not only did my Twins win, but Justin Morneau and J.J. Hardy both cranked another homer for the second night in a row, Nick Punto (my friend does not appreciate Punto for some reason) TRIPLED and singled. Oh, and Carl Pavano pitched a very strong performance for 7 innings.…and on and on. Pretty sweet night if you’re a Twins fan. I just had to throw that out there. If I can’t rub it in when the White Sox lose…then it’s just no fun at all!!

The “Is that contestant on American Idol a Christian Scorecard”

2010-04-06T07:00:00.006-05:00

28. They grew up singing in church and find a way to mention that approximately 19 times. = + 1 point

To add up your score with over 130 other ideas on this scorecard, visit stuffchristianslike.net.

Multi-blog post tomorrow

2010-04-05T07:49:00.000-05:00

So tomorrow I have the cool opportunity to play host to a short guest post - 1 out of many in a multi-post attempt by Jonathan Acuff of Stuff Christians Like. Sound confusing? Sound like fun? Check back tomorrow to see what it is! Let the fun begin!

The meaning of this day

2010-04-02T11:36:00.000-05:00

What can I say but that I am in awe of the cross? I am so grateful for what this day means...wow. I am overwhelmed!

Today is the day Jesus declared his passion for us. Today is the day he died to give his life for me so that I can live with him forever in Heaven, saved by his grace, saved by his love, saved by the cross!

How could I not recognize His deep love for me?

We so often lose sight of the real meaning of Easter behind all the chocolate and eggs and festivities. But really it is all because of Jesus.

After returning from Europe and talking to the people/students there, I am at a loss of how to describe my feelings today. Easter Sunday is just around the corner. We heard the same thing said over and over. How Easter is for the kids. They go to church on Easter for their families - it is just a family thing to them. Their views of church in Europe are slim outside of mass and a priest. Wow. So much potential for change, for revival, for awakening! I believe we got to witness the beginning of that change.

Years ago on this day, Jesus died for YOU. And 3 days later He conquered death. Yes, He rose from the dead!!!!!! He did that for you because He loves you and wants you to accept him and believe in Him. He wants to give you eternal life. He wants to take care of you. He wants to shower you with his love and show you His wonders.

KNOW without a doubt the extravagance of God’s love for you today.

Ahh, Europe

2010-03-23T15:19:00.000-05:00

How can I describe this trip so far but that it's amazing? Incredible. Absolutely stunning. Beautiful. Exciting. New. Surreal. The descriptions could continue. I don't have time to write a lot but we've had the chance to visit the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium so far, and we will also be going to Luxembourg and France. LOVE it SO much. God is so good and is working in this trip. It is amazing and exciting to see. I can't wait to see what the next part of this trip brings, we are on day 4 of 10 and have already experienced so much...with so much more yet to come. Maastricht, Netherlands, is an incredible city and seeing the mission and vision of the missionaries there is so cool. It's so hard to find the right words to describe this trip. Right now we are just 5 minutes away from the city of Bastogne, in Belgium, in the middle of World War II history, literally a hill away from where the Battle of the Bulge took place. It's so unreal. Pray that God would continue to give us His favor and wisdom and creativity for this trip. He's been so evident in everything we've done so far, and I'm really encouraged and excited, and not a little bit curious, to see what happens next.

Jesus & the Samaritan woman

2010-03-15T10:11:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered what this conversation was like? I read this passage yesterday and man...I'm sure it was an intense conversation. John 4. Jesus and the Samaritan woman.

John 4: 6-26 (My version)

Jesus sat down by the well…tired from a long day’s walk.

Samaritan woman walks up to draw water.

Jesus - “Would you give me a drink of your water?”

The woman looks at him, appalled, since Jews would never stoop so low as to talk to a Samaritan in those days.

Woman - “What do you think you’re doing, asking me for a drink?”

Jesus (seems to ignore her question and switches the topic (yet stays on topic)) - “But God’s gift of living water is even better - if you knew this, you would be asking me for a drink.”

Woman - “You have no water with you, and nothing to drink with, not even a cup. Our ancestor Jacob built this well and drank from it himself…who are you to say you are better than him?”

Jesus - “Drinking the water from this well will just make you thirsty again, but whoever drinks my water will never be thirsty again.”

Woman - “Then give me a drink of your water so I don’t have to keep coming back here to draw more water.”

Jesus - “Bring your husband here.”

Woman - “I don’t have a husband.”

Jesus - “I know. You’ve had 5. And now you’re living with another man and are not married.”

Woman - “Whoa. You must be a prophet.”

Umm…wow. No kidding. Pretty sure if a man sat down and started telling me all about myself…I’d be a little stunned, and convinced too…or making sure he wasn’t some weird creeper…

Then the conversation switches to deeper topics of worship and the coming of Christ.

Woman - “I know that Christ is coming, and when He comes He will explain everything to us.”

Jesus - “I am Christ, who you speak of.”

Whoa. Wow. Throughout the Bible, Jesus is reluctant to proclaim who He really is. It seems like He tries to keep it under wraps so people won’t notice. I know it’s because His time had not yet come. There was a time and a place for everyone to find out who He is. But here, beside a well after a long, hard day’s journey, he talks with a Samaritan woman, an outcast to the Jews, and reveals Himself to her. What an intense conversation. I would have loved to have been a “fly on the well” there. [Pun intended]

I wish the Bible told us the entire conversation. Sometimes I wish the writers had included emotion so we could better understand the context, the experience, the tone of voice, etc. How exactly did Jesus ask the woman for water? Did the woman stare at him in shock? Snap at him? Was she rude to him? Was he gentle? Did he command or request? How did she respond when Jesus told her about her past? I don’t know if I would have been so welcoming at first. My reaction would be - uhhh, go away you creepy stalker! And was Jesus nonchalant about telling her who He really is? Sounds like He was pretty purposeful. I am the One you speak of. And how did the woman respond?

Sounds like there was a lot of room to pass Jesus off as some weird, tired, dehydrated traveler. But the woman listed to Him. Engaged Him in conversation. She wasn’t afraid to ask questions. To ask Him who He was and what the heck He was doing. And He told her. And in the end she and her whole town believed. I just think that’s so cool.

On a side note...4 days and counting until Europe! Aaahhhh!!!!! :)

1 week!

2010-03-12T10:45:00.000-06:00

Only 1 week until I leave for Europe. Crazy. Love it. I'm getting so excited. I'm at peace about it finally, too. God's working on my heart to prepare me...and I can sense that excitement and purpose rising...packing party tomorrow!

In 1 week I will be on a plane... :)

Sunny Fort Myers and BASEBALL!

2010-03-05T10:49:00.000-06:00

I am about to head out for my 1st Twins spring training game...can't even begin to tell you how excited I am. I've always wanted to go, and now I'm actually here! :) With awesome seats, too. I'll have to post a picture later. For now, GO TWINS! :)

Global Project

2010-02-25T09:54:00.002-06:00

If you look above you'll see a link to a second page/blog, Global Project Europe 2010. During my trip, and before and after, I will be posting there. That is also part of the reason I joined Twitter, so everyone can keep up with me and the team as we trek across 3 countries in 10 days! It's exciting...and it's coming up fast!

I have been finding myself with little interest in blogging about anything else besides the upcoming trip, except when it comes to the MN Twins...I can blog about them any time! :-]

God has been providing and it's so cool to see. Just when I don't expect anything more...there you go. Something else happens and I keep getting affirmation that I really am supposed to go on this trip, whether I feel it or not. After all, God has a plan and that's all that matters. I wonder, will Europe meet my expectations? Will it surpass them? How is God going to surprise me? I love going along with what God has...it's always best!

From http://www.panoramio.com/photo/23701984

Twitter

2010-02-23T17:43:00.000-06:00

Look to the right side of the page, and there you'll see...the infamous Twitter button. Click on it and see my profile. Follow me if you dare. Yes, I did it. I actually, really, truly did it - as in I'm not lying, and no, I'm not dead. I did join Twitter as of 25 minutes ago. Just keeping my updating options open for my upcoming trip to Europe, plus thought it's about time and a great way to keep up with my favorite peeps. Oh dear. Does this mean I have to start using the Twitter language, too?

Check out this video

2010-02-22T08:35:00.000-06:00

I think it's hilarious! Sharing it from Stuff Christians Like... :).

Funny.

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1 month to go!

2010-02-19T12:40:00.004-06:00

And the countdown begins...officially 1 month from now I will be on a plane to Europe! Ah the excitement, the nervousness, the anticipation...my first trip to Europe and I get to do it as a Global Project (for those of you who don't know, that is what my church calls mission trips)!

How do I describe the feeling? I am so thrilled to be a part of this trip…to be chosen to be a part of it. I know God has great plans. It is hard to feel worthy or qualified. I have had my parents and many of my friends reiterate over and over to me that I am the perfect person for this mission, that they can see God at work and that they are excited to see how God shows up…in fact they keep telling me how much He will! And I know He will. These feelings of inadequacy overwhelm me at times…and I have to keep reminding myself it isn’t me anyway…it’s ALL God. He’s going to work through me and use me the way He wants to. I can’t do it on my own. He knows that. And He’s still willing to use me. Aahhh. Overwhelming, what can I say?

Every day on my way to work I pass by a church’s sign with this message: “God doesn’t call the qualified, He qualifies the called.” This was posted at the beginning of January, right when I started going WHOA…what am I getting into? Is this a coincidence? I think not! It's a constant reminder that God knows better than I do and that yes, I can trust Him to come through, trust Him to provide, trust Him to guide my every step.

The thing is…I am passionate about this. I am excited about this. This sort of thing is EXACTLY what I want to be doing. I can see this going somewhere. Turning into something bigger with extreme potential. That’s how things work when we are used by God. Wow. It’s this daily struggle between feeling totally unqualified and unsure, while also knowing this is right where I need to be and exactly what I need to be doing.

For me so far, this upcoming trip has been:

Opportunity for God to work
Stretching me daily
Growing my faith
Building my trust in God
Teaching me to listen
Collaboration with others in the same field of work
Potential for so much MORE to come

Pray that our team will grow close and work well together, that God will lead each of us and teach us humility and give us each a servant's heart and a desire to reach those around us with His love. Pray for finances - it's not easy to raise money, but at the same time, it is extremely encouraging and exciting to see family and friends make the decision to support me and partner with me in this trip. The cool thing is whenever you donate to a friend's mission trip, a cause, etc...you essentially become a part of it. I truly am blessed to have so much support!

Is there something God has laid upon your heart recently that is taking some time for Him to work into you?

Quiet Moments

2010-02-16T09:55:00.020-06:00

The quiet moments when God speaks are truly amazing. When I get to just sit here and listen to Him speak His love for me and remind me how He died for me so I can live with Him forever in Heaven. And how He wants that for every person on this earth. This morning was one such quiet moment that I desperately needed. It's like nothing in this world could compare to the peace I feel just knowing I am loved by God. Just knowing He lives in me and is with me and is teaching me and leading me. Just wow.

It also reminds me of those moments when I'm out in nature, and that overwhelming sense of God's goodness and peace just envelops me. Have you ever felt this way? It's so hard to describe and put into words. But it is truly amazing and I love these moments. Unforgettable.

Psalm 46:10 - "Be still, and know that I am God..."

Oh so boring...

2010-02-15T10:20:00.002-06:00

I feel boring today. Have you ever had days like this?

I feel this desperate need to come up with something clever, but everything I write seems to stay in the "boring zone." Hmmm...case of Minnesota snow fever? Could it be this cold has gotten the best of me? Please don't let it be so...

There are so many topics I could blog about - and my mind is empty - it feels as if there are a million ideas rushing around in my head and it can't keep up with any of them, so my brain is full of whirling thoughts and no concrete ideas. Oh dear. I guess I really do need help today.

Oh Vancouver

2010-02-13T16:05:00.000-06:00

Canada, I give you props for your graphically-brilliant Olympics Opening Ceremony performance. That part of the ceremony was very well done and spectacular. Yet...with poetry and intros and speeches and a casserole of dances and musical performances, I found myself confused...bored, almost. Kind of fascinating to find out Canada was so diverse. I guess I don't picture its aborigine background or consider Irish dancing a part of its culture. But, that's just me. What did you think of the ceremony?

No limits

2010-02-12T08:26:00.000-06:00

Luke 17:3-4 "...If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him."

Wow. I had to write about this because it so blatantly tells me that we cannot afford to be limited when it comes to forgiveness. We cannot choose to forgive once but never again. For as many times as God has forgiven me for doing the things I wish I didn't, the least I can do for others is to forgive the way He does. We also need to be that way. Endless forgiveness.

Ok, so how would you feel if your brother or friend or someone you know sins against you? You're probably at this point mad, frustrated, hurt, etc., right? So, you choose to forgive them and move on. But they do it again. And the second time it's harder to forgive, but you think they've learned their lesson, so you make the conscious effort to forgive. Then they do it again. And again, and again, and again, and...well, you get the picture. The first time is hard, but is it just me or would it keep getting harder to forgive each time you are wronged, especially when it's done continually yet they always come back asking for forgiveness?

As a human, I would be done after the 3rd time. Three strikes and you're out, buddy. Sorry, this girl can't take it anymore. My forgiveness meter is empty. I poured out my last drop on you...I can't give you more. That's me. But with God, I see Him keeping my meter full. Like He'll drop a quarter in the slot every couple hours to make sure I don't run out.

We can't afford to run dry on forgiveness and love, because then we can't show God's forgiveness and love to those around us. Everyone knows their limits. I have a feeling the person asking your forgiveness for the ??th time knows that they're past their limit, too, but they're hoping anyway. I think at that point they'd start to realize that there is a God. And He's bigger. Way bigger than what any of us are going through right now. And that's a powerful testimony. So much bigger than anything we can do on our own. Which is why it's so necessary to let God work in us so He can work through us to do His will and shine His light to those around us who may not deserve, in fact, no one deserves it, but then again, we were in the same place once, too.

Victory through tragedy

2010-02-09T09:03:00.000-06:00

Just read this story and had to share it. It shows you that life can go on and God comes through regardless of what has happened. It shows that God is God and He is good and brings victory through tragedy. He works everything for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). So cool!

Best Superbowl Commercials

2010-02-08T09:59:00.002-06:00

The only few commercials that really stood out for me are:

1. The little boy Doritos commercial
2. Denny's screaming chickens
3. And of course, the upcoming movie Robin Hood with Russell Crowe looks pretty good.

But seriously, this year's Superbowl ad lineup was quite the letdown.

Hands down, birds win. Remember the "Waz up" toucans of years past? Denny's did a good job this year. Doritos...you only won me over with 1 of your 4 commercials. There were definitely some clunkers that I really shouldn't even mention. Do I dare even discuss Alice in Wonderland? Looks terribly creepy. And don't get me started on GoDaddy.com...they don't deserve to be on TV.

Tim Tebow's ad wasn't what I expected it would be, but was well done, in my opinion.

But otherwise, really? You pay 2 million dollars + for each ad...and this is what we get? Could've definitely been better.

Here's to hoping Brett Favre comes back for one more shot at a Superbowl with the Vikings. Our guys deserve one more shot. We could've won this Superbowl easy. Props to the Saints, they won the game fair and square. Coach Payton's onside kick call to start the 2nd half was one heck of a call. I think they went a bit far saying that winning the Superbowl is what has given the city hope, though. I'm hoping God has a little more to do with it than a football team...

Drew Brees' son is pretty darn cute, though :).

What 1 hour can do

2010-02-05T11:08:00.000-06:00

Last night 7 of us from my small group/Bible study and other members of our church went to Feed My Starving Children. In the matter of 1 hour we packed 20+ boxes with thousands of meals, enough food to feed 44 children in Haiti for 1 entire year. That is amazing. Seriously, we need to do this more often. It only took 1 hour. How many lives could we help/change/benefit by simply giving up 1 hour or two of our time?

Here's a picture of us with the boxes. I love doing things like this. Always eye-opening. Always totally worth every minute. SO glad we could help in this small way.

Time's up, Haiti

2010-02-04T09:38:00.000-06:00

You may be going, whoa...what a title. But seriously, have you read the news lately? I went to Drudge Report this morning and there was not one link to the Haitian earthquake crisis. Sad. So sad.

I have to commend Samaritan's Purse. They are daily updating their relief profile on Facebook and I'm sure they won't stop until all needs are met, which will be years.
Check out their updates here. Below are a few pictures from their site. Heartbreaking. Inspiring. The crisis is not over, despite lack of coverage now from news media moved on to other things. The crisis will not be over for a long time to come, and we have to stand with the Haiti people, because if we don't, who else will? We are America. Nations rely on us...it's interesting when you look at how we differ from other countries because we have our foundation fully founded on God. What a difference that makes!

Time Lapse

2010-02-02T08:11:00.000-06:00

I'm terrible, I know. I haven't posted for a few days. Royal failure. But I've been caught up in life. Relaxing. Trying to remove myself from work and normal everyday stuff and focus on God and find His plan for me. You know, that kind of stuff. So, sorry for the time lapse. I would love it if I got a million comments asking me to keep blogging and asking me where I've been for the past few days....no such luck. Oh well, then you're just going to get stuck with my ramblings, because I figure with my 5 friends as my followers and those of you who occasionally stop by for a quick "scroll-through," people aren't dying to hear what I have to say. If you are, let me know, that'd be a major ego-booster, let me tell ya. On a more serious note, it's okay. I have aspiring visions of being a blogger and possibly envision writing a book someday, maybe a book about my blog, maybe a book about my travels, who knows? My grandpa has always been asking me when I'm going to write the next great novel. Never thought too much about it until now. Am I supposed to write a book? Better yet, what am I supposed to do with my life besides work (I also envision people being curious about what I do...not exceptionally glamorous, but hey, if you're curious, I'll tell you) and just living a normal, everyday life.

God has great things in store. That much He's told me this past weekend. He told me He's got me covered. He holds my entire family in His hands...and has a pretty good plan for us, too. The struggles we go through are only temporary and faith-building. There's a time lapse between the major stepping stones of our life. We get impatient because we're always wondering what our next step is. We fail to realize there's a huge time lapse in the Bible, too, oftentimes years go by between chapters and we read them like they happened the next day. That realization was a wake-up call for me, at least.

So, Jess, what's the next chapter in your life? Well...thanks for asking. Europe. I am going to Europe. My 5th mission trip. Definitely not where I saw myself going this year, but that's another story in itself. Which brings me to another question. Have you ever been on a mission trip? And if so, where?

Inspiration from Julie & Julia

2010-01-28T09:57:00.002-06:00

Are there any other bloggers out there who found a bit of inspiration from the movie Julie & Julia? I know I did. I think, in fact, that was the reason I started to blog again. There's something about the anticipation of writing down your thoughts and the whole world noticing that grabs my fingers like a magnet to the keyboard on my laptop and makes them itch to write something, anything. Then my brain screams at me to please hit 'publish post' as fast as I can to see if anyone out there responds!!!!!!! And like in the movie, when you discover that yes, someone has indeed visited your blog, and even better, actually decided to respond, I react with shouts and jumps of joy. Well...not exactly...but inside my head, I am screaming in excitement.

Ah the joys of being just one more blogger in the blogosphere...

Hello Thome!

2010-01-27T16:25:00.003-06:00

The Twins just signed Jim Thome. Yes, this will take up a whole blog post, because that gets me excited. Good choice, guys! I'm liking the way the team is shaping up this year...excited for the season to start in Target Field!

For those of you out there who don't know, I am a die-hard Twins fan. Yep, that's right, I loudly cheer for my M&M boys and am delighted when Gardy gets thrown out of the game for the bajillionth time for defending his players so animatedly...you got it. I love my Twins!

Lookin' forward to our new 2010 season at Target Field...anybody else thinking World Series potential? :-)

The trials of being a MN sports fan

2010-01-25T09:16:00.001-06:00

I could lament last night's dramatic overtime loss of my Vikings to those dirty-playing Saints...but I would get frustrated all over again, and it's just a game and not worth the extra stress. Ahh though, I was so hopeful. I don't think I've ever gotten so into a football game like I did last night.

But, as they say, there's always next year! It's true. Any team can beat any other team at any given time. Just hoping a Superbowl is in the future for the Vikings, the near future...hopefully in my lifetime?

As for my Twins...well...I am extremely optimistic that I will watch them win a World Series in my lifetime. Sooner than later, I say! Don't burst my bubble of optimism, either. The way I see it, it's better to look forward to things than dread them or second-guess them or not even give them a chance. You never know the outcome until it happens. So keep cheering, Minnesota sports fans, our time will come.

Another way to help Haiti

2010-01-22T13:34:00.002-06:00

How cool is this?

Text SP to 85944 to make a $10 gift and play a part in ending the suffering in Haiti.

YOU can make a difference!

Caring too much about failure.

2010-01-20T12:11:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite blogs to keep up with is Stuff Christians Like. Jon Acuff really gets it right. I could probably just re-post his posts here on my blog and be happy. I won't do that...I'm too opinionated sometimes. But when it hits home...I have to share.

Failure to us, failure in the world's standards, isn't always how God sees failure. Read on...to the 5 of you who keep up with me. Maybe eventually others will start reading my blog...but I guess as much as I'd like that, I don't need that. I'll just let God send whoever's supposed to read my stuff here...and we'll go from there.

Like Jon Acuff says..."Let’s retire the idea of failure." I'm going to keep going and writing on here what I feel I'm supposed to, even if no one reads it, and we'll go from there. Musings from a redhead. It's just the beginning. I'm believing for something bigger. Something radical. Something lifechanging. A God so big, so perfect, so real. He can do anything with what little we have to give. So let's start transforming our lives...bigger faith...more stepping out...more letting go of us and hanging onto God.

Thanks for reading.

Caring too much about failure.

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My Thing

2010-01-18T11:46:00.000-06:00

This was just posted on Stuff Christians Like by Jon Acuff. Thought I would share because it really really struck home. Made me think really hard, and that's a GOOD thing. Maybe it'll strike you the same way. Tell me what you think.

Trying to find “your thing.”

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Dear Dallas

2010-01-18T08:19:00.002-06:00

Some people are having mixed feelings about the Vikings' big win over the Cowboys. I just have one thing to say. If you didn't want us to score 34 points to your 3...maybe you shouldn't have let us. Just sayin. The game's not over until it's over. So stop moping about it. It's the NFL, not high school. :-P

Pray for Haiti!

2010-01-13T19:41:00.001-06:00

7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti yesterday. Thousands feared dead. They are in desperate need and can use all the prayer, support, and aid they can get! Here's a link to Compassion's blog. The Red Cross is running out of supplies. On Facebook you can become a fan of Haitian Earthquake Relief and there you'll find a list of different charities and organizations you can support, or click here for the same links. Cool idea from the White House...you can donate $10, charged to your cell phone bill, to the Red Cross by texting "HAITI" to "90999."

Convoy of Hope is one of the many amazing Christian organizations already on the ground and helping. We're all wondering what we can do. Do you have any ideas? Connections? Do you know anyone in Haiti? My family supports a Compassion child from Haiti, we're all praying he's alright.

Apparently President Obama is sending the 82nd Airborne Divison...their goal may be to get all the Americans out in case of a coup. Wow. A lot can happen in 24 hours.

Continue to keep the people of Haiti in your prayers, pray for strength and healing and peace in this time for everyone affected and all of the aid workers as well.

SOAP!

2010-01-07T13:30:00.001-06:00

I love reading SOAP. Just caught up to today's date. If you haven't read SOAP I very highly encourage you to do so. It is an amazing year-long guide to reading the Bible. Scripture. Observation. Application. Prayer. "God, what do you want me to get out of this today?" This is what I prayed this morning. And during my catch-up time...this is what I wrote down! Love it!

Just reading Mark 4:35-41…I realized Jesus calmed the sea TWICE! Not just once. He slept in the boat in the middle of the storm, how amazing His trust in God for His safety to not even be anxious! He calms the storm then. Then the separate time in Mark 6:45-52…when the disciples are in the boat by themselves, that’s when Jesus walks on the water to them and calms the storm too. Wow. For some reason I always thought he calmed the storm once…but now I realize it was twice! How cool is that! How great is my God! :)

Mark 6:31 when Jesus says to his disciples, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Aaaah. I feel like these words were spoken into my heart this morning. I feel like it’s God’s call. For all of us. To come with Him…to a quiet place…somewhere where we can be alone and spend time with Him…to rest in Him, talk to Him, listen to Him, just be with Him. Just me and Him. The two of us. My God and me.

Mark 7:31-37, Jesus heals a deaf-mute. He didn’t just speak to the man, because the man couldn’t hear Him anyway. But he demonstrated what he would do by touching the man’s ears and tongue, then prayed so the man could see exactly what was happening, and his ears and mouth were opened. Wow. Jesus did for the man exactly what he needed. And he did it in a way that was so loving, so considerate, so meant for only him.

Last day of 2009!

2009-12-31T08:11:00.000-06:00

It's time to ring in the New Year! Goodbye 2009...hello 2010. What do you have in store?

Patient Perseverance

2009-12-24T10:09:00.000-06:00

Reflecting on this Christmas Eve. Life. It throws some curveballs at us.

I was listening to my dad read the end of Jude and 1st chapter of Revelation this morning. SO powerful! God's Word is true! He is coming. He was. He is. AND He IS to come! :-D Makes me so excited hearing that! In Revelation 1, John talks about patient endurance. We are called to patiently persevere.

Revelation 1:9 - "I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus."

We will encounter suffering, but we are to remain humble and joyful in Christ, knowing He says, as stated in vs. 8 - "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." AND as John says in v.4, Jesus is "...the ruler of the kings of the earth[!!!]"

How amazing! Every single one of the rulers/kings/presidents of this world are under God's authority, whether they know it or not. God is in complete control. Nothing is too big or too small for Him. The apostle John was given the incredible opportunity to see things...Heavenly things...things we don't understand, things that are written about in Revelation...and what will happen at the end of days.

He saw Jesus. SAW Him. Here is what John said about it:

vs. 17 - "When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades."

I want you to understand something. Jesus holds the keys to death and Hades. That means death simply cannot hold us! When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, He actually went down into Hell/Hades and wrestled the keys from Satan. Jesus conquered death so that we may have life in Him, and have it abundantly (John 10:10)!

When I said first that life throws its curveballs, well...we all know it does. We all deal with our own struggles. But the best thing is that when we believe in Jesus as our Savior, He comes and changes life as we know it. He makes it meaningful. He is Christ the LORD. Emmanuel. God with us.

Patient endurance is rewarded in Heaven. We have eternal life to look forward to. I don't know why this strikes me as such a perfect revelation, if you will, but our family is facing some challenges at the moment, like so many people right now, yet through it all I am beginning to feel God's presence more. He is leading our family. Where, I don't know yet, but with God as my leader, how can I be afraid? There are bumps and mountains along the way...but that's a part of this earthly life's journey, isn't it?
Can't you just imagine what the end of the road looks like? Glorious! Triumphant! Full of MEGA JOY :). I cannot wait to look back and see where God has taken us. I want to continue to walk with Him always...trusting that no matter what happens, no matter what is thrown at us...He is right there by our side.

Through our Savior Jesus Christ, who was in Heaven with God, came to earth as a little baby, was born in a cave, his bed a musty manger, who grew up and showed the world what true love and hope and joy is, who suffered ridicule from those who were the closest to Him, was beaten and nailed to a cross, all so that He, God's perfect and only Son, would die for our sins, conquer death, grab the keys to Hell from Satan himself, and rise from the dead, come back to life, ascend to Heaven, and now He sits in Heaven at the right hand of God! O triumphant joy!

I really love that it's Christmas Eve. It's snowing. Tonight my family unwraps presents and will enjoy giving and being with each other, celebrating Jesus, the babe in the manger.

Thank you, God, for sending your Son to this earth to be born to save us! This is the reason we celebrate Christmas. Because it all started this night, a few thousand years ago...in a little town called Bethlehem...

The Soldier's Christmas Poem

2009-12-15T08:32:00.009-06:00

Have you heard this? Amazing. I swear I've been more emotional lately, because I almost started crying this morning on my way to work when I heard it on KTIS (98.5FM). Maybe it's just because I believe our soldiers deserve to be fully supported by every person who calls this country home. Maybe it's because it's the Christmas season and each soldier deserves to be home with his or her family, but instead they are fighting bravely for our freedom and the freedom of others. This poem is well worth the read.

A Soldier's Christmas

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
my daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree, I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep
in perfect contentment, or so it would seem.
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eye when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
and I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear
"Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts,
to the window that danced with a warm fire's light
then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,
I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night"

"Its my duty to stand at the front of the line,
that separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,
I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.

My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"
then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of 'Nam
And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,
The red white and blue... an American flag.

"I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home,
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat,
I can carry the weight of killing another
or lay down my life with my sisters and brothers
who stand at the front against any and all,
to insure for all time that this flag will not fall."

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone.
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.

For when we come home, either standing or dead,
to know you remember we fought and we bled
is payment enough, and with that we will trust.
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.

Michael Marks
December 7th, 2000

What a terrible joke

2009-12-08T21:38:00.000-06:00

So I was watching the Jay Leno show tonight. Not something I usually do but thought it was actually funny for a change...at least up until the part where he joked...JOKED...about selling babies "straight out of the mines of Myanmar." That hit a sore spot. I mean, you don't even go there. That's one of the most heartless things I've ever heard. I was stunned. How can they joke about that? How can that ever be the least bit funny? That breaks my heart. Those kids, those people from Burma, are precious and deserve better than to be at the butt of a joke like that. They deserve to be honored and cared for and protected and fought for...but the sad thing is many people, most people, don't even know where Myanmar (Burma) is. And they don't even care. I sat on my couch and cried tonight. I know for a fact God is fighting for them. Sending His guardian angels to protect them. Bringing them help through people simply willing to give their lives and work nonstop to serve Him and bring the helpless, the hopeless, the persecuted, and the desperate to Him.

I can only pray that God shows the world how precious those babies are to Him. How precious each and every person is to Him. He died for them. How can you show your love more than that?

The reason! The only reason!

2009-12-04T08:31:00.002-06:00

The reason for the season. Baby Jesus. Born in a manger. In a cave (not a barn like everyone thinks). A dark, dirty cave. The reason He was born? To take away our sins and give us the incredible gift of eternal life. I'm blown away that He would do that for me. DIE for ME. As in really? I don't deserve it! None of us do. Which is what makes it so much more perfect and amazing and AWEsome...He came for us, died for us, conquered death and ROSE from the dead! The whole purpose, so that we won't be doomed to an eternity of pain and suffering in hell, but go with Him and get to be with Him forever in Heaven! This is the meaning of eternal life. Forever. To be with Jesus in Heaven. For eternity.

1 John 3:16 - "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers."

Eternity with Jesus. All because He came as a man, born in a lowly manger, grew up ridiculed by those who knew Him the most, to teach and love, to heal the sick and disabled, to bring peace and joy, to suffer and die for you and me. He conquered death. He CONQUERED it. He didn't just rise again and die later. HE IS STILL ALIVE. He is in Heaven awaiting the perfect time to return and take us, those who believe in Him, those who have accepted Jesus into their hearts as Lord and Savior, to take us into Heaven with Him. It's such an amazing gift! I want to tell the world. One step at a time.

He is coming. Probably sooner than we think, but not when we expect it. Yet we should be waiting. Anticipating. He's coming and He's taking us with Him. He's going to wipe out all sin. Create a new Heaven and a new Earth.

Matthew 24: 30-31 - "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other."

vs. 36 - "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."

And we will be with Him. Forever. Eternally living with Him! New bodies. It's going to be beautiful. This is the meaning of eternal life. It's not just something we say. It's the gift, the one gift that God has given to every single person if they just believe in Him!

It all started with one babe. One manger. Jesus' birth. The reason for the season.

Surprises.

2009-12-01T09:03:00.001-06:00

God surprised me yesterday. I love how He works. Orchestrating everything perfectly as He sees fit. Wow.

Europe. I have a feeling this trip will be nothing like anything I've experienced and unlike any trip I've been on so far. I've never been to Europe. Didn't expect to go. Don't know if Vietnam/Thailand is still in the picture, since that's been my focus and goal, to go back there since my trip 2 years ago. Guess I'll find out. God has a plan and keeps working things for His glory, that I know.

India. I feel it's on the horizon now, too. With Titus, Britt, Robyn & Caleb there now, and Brad & Matthew joining them for a couple weeks, plus with the RVC India team heading there in Feb...I feel the tug. I feel a tug to reach the world right now. How can I do it all? Go everywhere? My dreams keep expanding. Vaguely. I get a glimpse of God's glory and my eyes and heart keep opening wider. I don't know where He wants me. But I know I want what He wants. I want the world to know His love!

...but it's right now that's reality. I have these dreams. Vague dreams but dreams nonetheless. It starts here.

So many things to be thankful for...

2009-11-26T13:32:00.000-06:00

Today is a day to give thanks for all the things God has blessed us with. For me the list could go on and on and on...I have an amazing family and incredible friends, a job I don't hate :), a God who loves me as His own, a roof over my head, food to eat, a church I'm so excited and blessed to be a part of, seriously I could go on forever.

When I think about this, I can't help but realize how much I have and how much God has given me. So how can I not give back to Him?

Be blessed this day knowing our God LOVES YOU with a burning passion and desires your heart! He wants the best for you, the absolute best...

Oh and p.s. Just found out I'm GOING TO EUROPE with RVC! Aaaah! SO excited!

2 Timothy 3:16-17

2009-11-20T12:30:00.000-06:00

I love this verse. SO amazing. The whole chapter is good...the whole book, but every time I read this it stands out and inspires me to dig even more into the Word, because it is so applicable to everything I do, every day of my life!

NIV: All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Message: Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us.

Give to the Max Day

2009-11-17T08:36:00.000-06:00

This is such an awesome idea, really cool!

Today, November 17, is Give to the Max Day!

You can support your nonprofit today and anything you give will be matched!

Donate today and make it count!

ICCM
Feed My Starving Children
Ronald McDonald House
Dorothy Day Center

These are just a couple of the ministries you can donate to today...take advantage of this chance to make a difference in someone's life! I love this! :)

He did it A G A I N

2009-11-16T14:40:00.001-06:00

Will he never learn????

Can I just go, please?

2009-11-15T22:33:00.001-06:00

Can I just tell you how much I want to go right now? There are times, like right now, where I just want to drop everything and head overseas and be God's hands and feet. I don't even know where. Just go. Back to Vietnam and Thailand...over to Europe...to wherever God leads. I just want to go. I just want to rely on God wholly. I realize I totally don't do that here. And I run into so many roadblocks. The battle is so different here than overseas. Really. I feel minimalized here. Not worth it. Pastor Rob's sermon comes to mind. SO good. SO needed. SO necessary to speak into the lives of the people here...I think Satan comes at us in a completely different way here. He tells us we're too small. We can't make a difference. We're not strong enough. We don't have enough faith. We lack courage. We're weak...hopeless...what can we ever do? But the funny thing is, we're the exact people God wants, because then He can use us, all of us, wherever He needs because we know we can't do it on our own and are completely surrendered to Him and His will.

Overseas, it's a battle to survive. It's literally life or death. Here, in America, it's a battle against our minds. Our hearts say yes and yearn for the things of God, but our culture and way of life beat down our spirits and our will.

I see my friends going overseas and leaving everything to do God's work, to show others how much God loves them. What's different about here? Why is it so much harder? Is it because the faces are familiar? We worry what people will think of us? I had this thought a few days ago. Really, in the grand scheme of things...when we get to heaven...are we really, honestly, going to care what people thought of us here? No...we're going to be really glad we did or said something when we had the chance, or heavily regret that we didn't.

2 years ago

2009-11-14T14:21:00.003-06:00

2 years ago to this day, my dear Grandma (my dad's mom) went to be with the Lord. I just felt compelled to post a piece from my journal, kind of a letter to her this year again. I love her so much still...can't wait to join her in singing with the angels! Here is a little bit of my journal from last year:

All I know is God is so real, so alive, and that my Gramma is singing in His heavenly choir right now, rejoicing in radiant life, blessed with a new and perfect body, and no longer in any pain. I know she sees us. I know she loves us and is looking down at us and is proud of us and is praying for us even there. She can see things now that we can't, and knows such wisdom and truth -- she's come face-to-face with God -- and that just blows my mind! I'm so happy for her, so joyful to know she's rejoicing and singing God's praises now. But oh, the earthly separation is hard. Gramma, I know you love it there in heaven, but can I just say I miss you? ... I don't really want you to come back here and be in pain again. I just miss you and love you, but I know I'll see you again...probably much sooner than it feels like now. And what a reunion that'll be! I love you, Gramma!

Just starting out...

2009-11-13T12:16:00.000-06:00

...so I decided I should start a blog. I haven't written my own blog since I did it for a class in 2005.

Time to venture out on my own? My intentions are good, hopefully I will update this more frequently than not. Just a lot of thoughts and hopes and dreams and passions all jumbled in my head. I hope you don't get too annoyed with me :-P. So for now...checking out...stay tuned for my first official b l o g. :)