Wanting to be his children

I was on the subway earlier today (I live in NYC) and heard a really unfortunate conversation. A mother was talking to a boy of about 4 or 5, yelling at him actually, telling him that she wished he was never born and that he was a horrible child. I don't know what set it off, but it was a horrible experience to have to listen to. How another person raises their child is something I typically stay out of, especially since I am not a parent so I don't have the first hand experience to maybe be as comfortable judging a moment, but this was too much. I was on the verge of stepping in and tactfully asking her to please quiet down (putting it on me having a headache or something) so that this child could get a reprieve, even if it meant deflecting some of her anger at me, when she got off. I felt so bad for this child that I couldn't' give him at least a few minutes of quiet. Some people may disagree and say that I shouldn't have contemplated stepping in, but there is nothing that I could possible think of that a child this small, or any child at all, deserved this kind of barrage.

This incident made me think of how wonderful it is to be the child of God. He doesn't anger, doesn't try to throw us out, tell us we're bad. He loves us for all that we are and all that we are not. When we make a mistake, he loves us, knowing that we are trying to live a good, Christian life. There is no way that he would lead us in to a situation like this, but would love us and guide us when we make a mistake so that we can learn the proper way and then share it with the world. I so wish that I could have shared this message with this women earlier today - that God does truly love us all and that he will see us through it all. Who knows what caused her to react to her this way, but I have been praying constantly for her today, and ask that you think of her today, so that she may come to God's love and be able to raise her son in that way.

How do other people do it?

So, I am still fairly new at, and still getting steady in, my walk with God. I grew up in a Catholic home, but never felt really connected with the church. I went through the motions and it never meant anything to me. I can't explain why that was the case with me because religion was important to my parents, but it just never meant much (sad, isn't it?).

How do other people go day to day? I have read so much about modesty, Christian living,.... you name it, I read it. There are so many wonderful people out there who lead such great lives. How are people so sure of themselves and their faith? Big topic, I know..... :) Help!

Did I say this before?

Ok, I had been so good. There's not a good reason for leaving the blog.... at least for no other reason than it's good mental health for me. :) Now that grad school is in swing and I've settled back in for a new year with a new batch of 4th graders, things should be better for me. I'm back. God's been good - and very patient.

Newness

We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. (Romans 6:4)

After the death of my aunt, I began to feel a bit off and had trouble getting over it. It's during times like this, I should know enough to turn to the Bible and His word to help me, but of course I don't think of that. It was during a recent conversation with a friend, she was so accurate that I'm missing the wonder in the world. That often seems to be the case when something goes wrong - we turn our backs on God and think we should just handle it on our own. Of course, God has his way of working and I somehow walked back in the right direction. It feels nice to be back 'home' and know what love is.

I am glad to be back posting and will try to not delay so long!

Courage

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

I find that I am always so tempted to take matters in to my own hands, thinking that I would be better off doing things my own way. I feel that it is the courageous thing to do, that I will be viewed as brave, when in all actuality, it makes me a weaker person. It takes a strength that is difficult for most of us to comprehend to be able to turn to God, and ask for His help and guidance. If there's anything that I struggle with, it's being able to do it. Turning and asking for help or turning to praise is not always instince with me. I think that I am getting better at it, but it's a constant challenge to remember. If there are any words of wisdom, I would appreciate it..... :)

People and Our World

I watched this fun clip http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap080722.html. I don't know why I find something silly to be so striking, but that's the way it is. Just thought I would share. :)

Life's Lessons

I started a grad class last week and thought I finally hit my stride when God handed me other plans - my aunt passed early Friday morning at about 6:00 AM. I miss her terrible, she was like a second mom to me. She was sick enough though that I am glad she is not in pain anymore.

Commitment to family

And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. (Ruth 1:16 - 17)

Ruth has always made me feel so comforted. I look at her and see such a commitment to family, a lover and respect for others. Ruth provides a way for her mother-in-law to survive, to what could have been her detriment (not returning to her family, not remarrying, etc). What lessons can we learn from such an unselfish person? What can we take away from such a complete act of love, charity, and caring for others? Where do I even begin answering that question?!?!?! :)

The more I follow God and the more I look to Him for guidance in my day to day life, the more I see how this type of commitment is necessary in everything I do. I need to be able to commit myself to everything I can do with heart, mind, and body, so that I can feel comfortable in being able to turn over it over to glorify God. If I look at how Ruth carries herself, shows love for her mother-in-law, respect for the owner of the field, I can get a great example of how to live. Any thoughts?

Modesty Survey

I came across this survey about young people and modesty. It provides an interesting perspective. I am putting it up to allow for thoughts to start flowing, no matter if you agree or disagree. Think about it. Post about it. Talk about it.

Soft Pumpkin Cookies

• 1 (16 ounces) can pumpkin, 2 cups
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup (8 ounces) butter, softened
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup chocolate chips
  

Preheat oven to 350°. Into a large mixing bowl, measure all ingredients except pecans. With hand held mixer at low speed, beat ingredients until blended, scraping bowl occasionally. Increase mixer speed to medium and beat for 1 minute longer.

Using 2 tablespoons of batter for each cookie, spoon batter into mounds on ungreased baking sheets, keeping mounds about 2 inches apart. Press a few chocolate chips into the center of each cookie dough mound. Bake cookies for 18 to 20 minutes, until golden brown. Loosen cookies with spatula and move to wire rack to cool. Store in tightly covered container for up to 4 days. Freeze in portions, if desired. Makes 6 to 7 dozen cookies.

**You may be able to mix chips in to batter after using the mixer and hand mix them in - I've never tried. A friend likes it with a pecan half placed in the middle instead of the chocolate chips.**

Age

Being a fourth grade teacher, I appreciate what young people have to offer. Of course, at this time of year, I also appreciate having a break to de-stress! That point aside, I see a lot of good in youth and what they have to share. Don't get me wrong, respect is shown towards those who are older. There is much that age has to offer that youth can not give. Years on Earth often does bring a lot of wisdom. I have such respect for my parents, my church pastor and elders, grandparents, etc. They have seen so much and experienced so much and those experiences have taught them how to handle a lot. What I think people need to avoid though is that youth means that you have less to offer. There is hardly a week goes by that a student of mine didn't teach me something or give me a different way to look at something that I thought I was the 'expert' on. I sometimes need to work at remembering that just because I am older, doesn't mean I have the end all and be all answer to something. Even when a students knoweldge of a subject is limited (or sometimes when there may be no knowledge), they ask a question or rephrase something in such a way as to give me a new perspective and open a whole new way to approach the subject. Don't discount me because I am yonger, please!

The Weight of Prayer - Author unknown

I am not sure where this story came from, but it was passed on to me recently and thought it was wonderful. Has anyone seen this before? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Louise Redden, a poorly dressed lady with a look of defeat on her face, walked into a grocery store. She approached the owner of the store in a most humble manner and asked if he would let her charge a few groceries. She softly explained that her husband was very ill and unable to work, they had seven children and they needed food. John Longhouse, the grocer, scoffed at her and requested that she leave his store. Visualizing the family needs, she said: 'Please, sir! I will bring you the money just as soon as I can."

John told her he could not give her credit, as she did not have a charge account at his store. Standing beside the counter was a customer who overheard the conversation between the two. The customer walked forward and told the grocerman that he would stand good for whatever she needed for her family. The grocerman said in a very reluctant voice, "Do you have a grocery list? Louise replied "Yes sir!" "O.K." he said: "Put your grocery list on the scales and whatever your grocery list weighs, I will give you that amount in groceries."

Louise, hesitated a moment with a bowed head, then she reached into her purse and took out a piece of paper and scribbled something on it. She then laid the piece of paper on the scale carefully with her head still bowed. The eyes of the grocerman and the customer showed amazement when the scales went down and stayed down.

The grocerman staring at the scales, turned slowly to the customer and said begrudgingly, "I can't believe it." The customer smiled and the grocerman started putting the groceries on the other side of the scales. The scale did not balance so he continued to put more and more groceries on them until the scales would hold no more.

The grocerman stood there in utter disgust. Finally, he grabbed the piece of paper from the scales and looked at it with greater amazement. It was not a grocery list, it was a prayer, which said: "Dear Lord, you know my needs and I am leaving this in your hands." The grocerman gave her the groceries that he had gathered and placed on the scales and stood in stunned silence.

Louise thanked him and left the store. The customer handed a fifty-dollar bill to John as he said, "It was worth every penny of it." It was sometime later that John Longhouse discovered the scales were broken, therefore only God knows how much a prayer weighs.

A calling

How do we know what we are meant to do? Ok, tough question, or maybe not written well, but how do we know where God wants us to go and what to do? I realize that someone's going to answer that when we are quiet enough, we will hear what God wants. I know that's true, but sometimes I have trouble making the step to understand if that's my mind imposing something that I think is a calling. How do other people discern what's a real calling versus their mind just "playing" with them?

My Aunt

A few weeks ago, my Aunt Bea was diagnosed with cancer that has progressed very far. It is now in her brain, lungs, and bones, and they are still checking to see where else. She had been feeling fine until about a month ago when she had an episode that was originally thought to be a mini-stroke. The real problem was quickly discovered when they performed various scans and tests. There is no hope for curing the cancer and she has opted to not receive chemo or other treatments, since they would be giving her extremely harsh doses and it would not give her much time. She has always been, and still is, a very Godly person. She is trusting that she will be called home when He is ready for her. All things considered, she is holding up well. She has lead a long and good life. Please pray for her as she recieves her care. We don't know how long we will have her before she is called home and hope we can find joy in the time we have left with her.

Psalm 31:5 - Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
Psalm 23:4 - Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
John 11:26 - And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Oh boy

So I apparently have been out of the loop for a LONG time. I feel really bad. Between our field trip to Williamsburg, VA, school wrapping up, and some family issues (more on that in a seperate post), I've been very busy and tired. I PROMISE to get back in to it now that summer is coming.

I'm back!

I believe I may have said that about two weeks ago, but works been unreal and then we got some bad news about one of my aunts this past week. She has been diagnosed with cancer and it doesn't look good. They are not going to operate, but will do chemo and radiation. I am feeling a bit out of sorts, but God is good and He will be good. She is taking it as well as can be expected and is doing a lot of praying. She sees God has a plan, and knows she has lived a good life - as she told me, if He wants to call her home, than she is ready to go. Pray for us please.

WOW!

I can't believe how busy my life has been. God has been good and provided so much for me, but it has taken me away from writing. I am back this week!!

Troubles

I am going through some personal turmoil right now. I would appreciate any prayers that are out there! Praise God for all He does. Even this turmoil has a reason. I'm not sure what, but he would not give me something I can't handle! I don't have the heart to go in to it all right now.

God - please allow me to get through this. Continue to walk with me. You are great and shall guid me what I need to do!

Strawberry Pie

This was one of our favorites growing up:

Strawberry Pie

Crust:
1 cup flour
2 sticks melted margarine
2 Tablespoons sugar
Mix ingredients well. Press into pie plate. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 min. Let cool.

Inside:
2 pints fresh strawberries sliced

Filling:
3/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups water
2 Tablespoons cornstarch

Directions:
Boil the three filling directions, mixing with a wire wisk. It will thicken. Take off the stove. Add one small box of regular red jello. Cool somewhat. Then add the sliced strawberries. Pour into pie crust. Chill and refrigerate until serving time.

Variations:
* My mom used to sometimes do strawberries and blueberries (combined 2 pints). That makes a nice red, white, and blue pie (with whipped cream).
* She also used to do sliced peaches. If you do sliced peaches, we used to find the peach jello a little too sweet, but really liked it with orange jello.

Prayer Notebook

I had used an idea that Rebekah used (I have linked to her site in my side bar and this idea in an old post). It is a notebook of reflections on a variety of Bible topics that I find I need on a variety of topics to help me stay focused. When doing my notebook, I used a three subject notebook, 9.5 by 6 inches, 150 pages - not the standard size notebook, but the next size down. I found it helped me to have it in one notebook (I lose things). I gave each tab two pages, which allows a few extra at the end of each section (comfort, theology, and womanhood). I have included a page at the end of each seciton that is a sort of further reading, investigation, etc page if I find a book, article, etc that goes with that section that helps me or is interesting. It turns out I still have some extra pages in each area in case I want to add more. Check out the original link here: http://learningtoloveinchrist.blogspot.com/2008/04/by-his-grace-and-for-his-glory-tips-for.html#links

Pentecost

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. (Acts 2:1-2)

I always feel a special connection to Pentecost, for the obvious religious reasons, but also because I was born on Penetecost Sunday (almost in church actually). God rising in to heaven and the salvation that it brings is an amazing gift. Knowing how unworthy I am to have received that gift makes me feel even less worthy. We have been given gift after gift after gift and have done nothing to earn it. In fact, at every turn we behave in such a way to prove that we deserve it even less. I hope I can begin to earn some of this love, but know it's never fully possible.

Posts.....

I have found that posting helps me. It makes me think and examine myself. Being back in God's gracious love is a new thing for me. Ok, it's not a new thing, since God has always loved me. It's just that I walked away from it. It's something that I am not happy with and not proud of. The last few years have been wonderful and a great learning experince. I find that writing things helps keep me focused and clarify things. Yes, I know I ramble, humor me on this please. Maybe you can help me learn something - if you see something that rings a bell with you and have a similiar experience, let me know about it. And who knows, maybe something in my rambling will help you rethink something and learn something. Maybe not though.....

Anxiety

Cast all your anxiety on him [God] because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

This one is too appropriate for me today. It's been one of the longer days for me - feeling worry and stress over things that are too small. Trying to remember that God cares isn't always easy to do. After all, why should He take time to look at my problems? Stress over a situation at work, a late subway, a messy apartment, an unexpected bill, or car breakdown. These are not huge deals. Think of all the other things in the world - war, famine, floods. Those are SO much more important to Him. But the truth is, those things aren't. He loves us all and wants to protect us all evenly. We have to pray, love Him, care for Him, turn our lives over, turn everything over. That's not saying that God will make everything turn out the way we want or the easy way, but He will be there to love, protect, and care for us in our darkest day and happiest moment. Just remember to praise Him for all he does, not just when things are good. Easier said than done.....

Spring is in the air

The weather has been great! The sun has been shining, the wind has been cool, but pleasant, the temperature has been just right. It's amazing how this season roles around ever year, providing us a chance to watch flowers bloom, trees open, birds return. My spirits are always buoyed when the warmer weather returns, a true reminder of God's eternally returning love and caring! No matter what else is going on, a beautiful day will always bring me around! Opening of plants after a cold winters sleep is really amazing. Do I dare make the cliche comparison to our coldness (winter) and spring opening (God's love)? It may be a little over the top, but it's true. He keeps allowing us back no matter what we have done. If only the world could learn from God's love and treat each other the way we should be - and using his example! It takes true humility to be able bow down to God's wishes and do what is expected. We need to be able to go beyond our wishes and do what's right.

Love again?

Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. (Psalms 67:3-4)

It's amazing how we are loved! He created us in His image, an honor enough as is, but to love us after we turn around and no longer follow His way. What have we done to earn this? It's amazing how He continues to love us through it all. We can learn so much by how he treats us. :)

Prayer Closet

So, I have set up a prayer closet. Getting prayer time in an apartment in the middle of New York (even one on the 8th floor) that is quiet prayer time, is impossible. I set a few pillows on the floor for comfort and placed a small reading light in there. I also brought in paper and pencil in case I am struck to journal something, as well as a bottle of water. Since I live alone, and my apartment has 6 closets (this is the only place I looked at that had more than two, and there wasn't many that had that many), I shifted some things around, and have half my clothes closet free for it. It's fairly long, so I can stretch my legs out if I wish. When I pray, I find that I am always distracted by the noise, or work I have to do around the apartment, or whatever. I am hoping by having this space, I can have some undistracted prayer and worship time every day. My prayer time already exists, but hoping this will help make me have more of a personal time with God since it will just be the two of us (and hopefully not my whole life). It's interesting how the one day in recent weeks that I missed my morning reflection time, I had a real scramble about day.

I have worship time twice a day, and I am not sure if I'll use it both times, or just at night. In the morning, I usually read a book of reflections or a Bible verse of the day, etc. I use this time to read something a little shorter and reflect on it a little bit, setting my day on the positive word of God. In the evening, I will do a more intense time. Some nights I may work on a more formal Bible study workbook or some kind of organized reading and work. Some night I may go to favoirite passages if I am in a particular state of mind where I may need a passage, or may search for passages to handle my needs. Some nights I just open, read, and then pray, write, etc. There is no set method to my night time prayer, but I set aside at least 1/2 hour, but usually try to aim for 45 min to an hour, more if time allows. I'll keep posting to how this special space helps my special time with our wonderful Lord!

Honey Wheat Bread

This is extremely yummy and great warm out of the oven!

1 and 1/2 cups water
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup margarine
5 and 1/2 - 6 cup flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
3 Tablespoon sugar
2 Tablespoons salt
2 packages yeast
1 egg

Heat first 4 ingredients till warm (120 - 130 F). Lightly spoon flour into cup. Combine warm liquid, 2 cups flour and remaining ingredients in large bowl. Beat 2 minutes at medium speed. By hand, stir in remaining flour to make a stiff dough. Knead on floured surface till smooth (about 2 min). Place in greased bowl. Cover and let rise till doubled (45 - 60 min). Grease 2 9x5 pans. Punch dough down, and divide and shape into 2 loaves. Place in pans. Cover and let rise again. Set oven to 350F and bake for 45 min. Remover immediately from pans.

It's a wonderful time of year...

I was sitting outside tonight, and it was great. A little cool, but still nice enough. My apartment is on the 8th floor, at the corner of 123rd and Broadway, overlooking Broadway and the 1 train. I look out at the GW bridge and Grant's tomb, both of which are lit up at night. The sun set in a beautiful manner, with all these wonderful colors. I sat there looking at the flowering trees, watching all different people walk by and the traffic even seemed to quiet down, an unusual event in the city. It's great to think of all the blessings that He has given me. A church I can love and worship in, a family that loves me, a wonderful place to live, food, clothing. He is great!

His Love is True!!!!

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. (Psalm 28:7)

Joy to Him! Isn't that the truth? Has there ever been a time that he hasn't been faithful and wonderful to us? Think of all He has done - saving all of us who are unworthy because He truly loves and cares for us. And we have done nothing for that - nothing that could ever earn that love, caring, or depth of emotion. There is nothing that we could ever do to get that in our lives.

There is such love and emotion coming from him that there is little else I can do but love him back. I don't know about anyone else, but it's been such a fantactic drive to be able to grow with the Bible and the words that we have to live by. I am trying to get my hands on any and all readings that can show me more of His love and how we can bring others to the way. Please share what you know and what helps you!!!

Chocolate Cheesecake Bites

Ok, these are super easy and delicious!

Ingredients:
8oz bar of cream cheese
about 12 - 15 oroes, crushed
dipping chocolate (melted chocolate chips or bar, etc, any chocolate that will melt and reharden)
peanut butter chips or peanut buther

How to:
Soften the bar of cream cheese and mix the oreos in to it. Form it in to balls and place on a plate. Place back in the fridge until chilled. When ready, melt the chocolate and dip the cream cheese balls in to it. Place back on the plate and place in the fridge until chilled. When chilled, melt the peanut butter chips (or peanut butter) and drizzle across the balls. The process takes a while because you have to do a bit of softening and chilling, but the steps you have to do are very short and these can easily be made on a day you are in and out doing errands or stuck in cleaning.

Children's Church

OK, so my congregation is a small, growing one. There's not many LCMS Lutherans to begin with and many people leave when they have children, so we haven't had any families until recently. We are now at a point that we are looking at starting a children's church and I jumped on board, since working with children is the way I feel most comfortable serving, although I have never had to start a cc or Sunday school program. Of course I am getting assistance from my pastor and his wife, but am being given a bit of leeway. Any thoughts or suggestions?

Reactions or rejections?

I have to say that coming back to my Christian faith has been one of the most wonderfuly experiences that last few years, but also has presented some things issues. I am not suggesting that all the things have been bad, but it has provided me with a challenge. Many years ago, I had given up on Christ in my life, thinking it would be easier to follow my own path rather than what He has planned. Little did I know how difficult that would be. It was such a great experience to come back a few years ago, coming back to His word and seeing how I could live to bring joy. I guess the challenge lies in other peoples expectations of me. I love how He so clearly lays out for me how to live, but when people expect me to act a certain way, dress a certain way, etc, that makes it a little more challenging. The people who truly care about me have come around to see the positive change in me, and some of them have even come around to Christ, which as awesome experience. It's still tough to see some of the reactions I have gotten, mostly because they are rejecting God's word. How have others handled this type of reaction to their change or the rejection of God's word?

Great tips for meditation!

Rebekah (who runs this blog I have linked to) has come up with a great idea for a meditation/prayer book. Her blog is worthwhile to look at as a whole (I have also linked her blog under my worthwhile blogs).

~By His Grace and For His Glory~: Tips for meditating on the Word#links

Eeck!

I can't believe it's been a week! This past week has been vacation week and I've been traveling all over to see family and friends. I'll be back in the loop tomorrow. :)

Faith

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. (Romans 10:17)

Growing up, faith didn't come easy for me. There was a lot going on in my life that made me question if God existed. I'm not saying that I had the hardest life there was, but it wasn't idealic. There's some things I don't feel comfortable sharing out here in cyberspace yet, but some things I can talk about. I remember moving to NJ in fourth grade, a wealthier town with a good school disctrict. My family was comfortable, but my parents worked hugely long hours to make ends meet and we were expected to start working with odd jobs as kids and then with our working papers to help out with expenses we needed to cover. We were very different from the most every other kid in town. My sister was in college when we moved there, and my three older brothers all adjusted well. I didn't. I remember moving during 4th grade, right at the end, which is a rough time for girls and cliqeness. The other girls, most of them, made my life a living hell. I got picked on and teased on a daily basis and would frequently go home in tears. It was the most miserable experience and this went on straight through about 9th grade, when the kids just more left me alone. That was such a relief! At that point, I more came in to my own and fell in to a group of close friends, who I am still close friends with to this day (and who I wouldn't give up for the world).

Now how does this relate to faith, especially since I lost most of mine through all this (and some other personal things going on)? It has everything to do with it. There wasn't a day that I wouldn't wake up with some amount of faith that things wouldn't get better, although it did take years. Now when I am around kids (as my job has me doing), I find that I have things in better retrospect. I also see that I am able to have a greater understanding for the fact that God will always give us the strength to get through things, to find to something better, to be able to grow and understand what real love means. He always has faith in us that we can make it through, that we can succeed. We need to have more faith in Him, that he will walk us through, and that we can suceed in whatever we are handed. We are only given us much as we can handle and tests like this show that. Have faith and all will be well!

Christ and the body

From him [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Ephesians 4:16)

Think about the way your body works. Your brain works everything, your heart pumps the blood, your lungs distribute oxygen to your body. How does it all work? I've taken enough biology, and anatomy and physiology, to have the science of it down. You can look at chemical reactions, chain reactions from neurons, and the like to answer that question. Why though?

Think about what God did in making us the way we are. We can think so clearly and are so expressive, we are such rational people. Rational may not always be the best thing, but it does allow us to really think of the value of the gift that He has given us. He loves us so much that He made it possible for us to think, talk, and share, that he allowed us to have a wonderful way to share. We can think, bring His ideas together and be able to talk about all that He has to teach.

You can also think about this in the bigger sense of the church body. The congregation of a church have a responsibility to teach, bring people in, share His ideas. We have the commitment to teach and learn together as adults, as well as a great responsibility to bring children up in a loving church body and family. We also have a responsibility to bring people in to this church body, so that they are able to learn the truth, learn about the word. What's the thought about that?

Your Body

From him [Christ] the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Ephesians 4:16)



Think about the miracle of the way your body works. The way your heart pumps blood through the body, how your brain fires and functions billions of neurons, the way your lungs provide oxygen. How does it all work? I studied enough biology, and anatomy and physiology to go in to the reasons. I can tell you about the chemical reactions, all the chain reactions, all the results that tie in to each other. That's the part that's easy to explain and work out. OK, not maybe easy, but it's the part that can be explained.



Why does it work though? It works because God wants it to. He created our bodies because He wants us to be able to go out and spread the word that is so important, the word about His life and love. It's amazing how he can take the time to do all this for us and we have nothing to offer but our promise that we'll keep working and trying to let others know about Him. We can't offer anything else to Him and yet He took all this time on us.



When you take the concept of a body and look at the bigger picture of the body of the church, it also helps put things in perspective for us. No matter what church you belong to, your church body has the mission to share itself with the outside world and bring people in the word of Christ. Our church body, our church's ministry, is to learn, to share, to teach, not only for our own selves, but to bring the whole world in to the light. It's an amazing experience to watch a person begin to know God's word and all that comes with it. I am still a learner, and I guess that experience still applies to me. I always am amazed how it feels to learn and experience something new, to feel the love poor through you and really make you understand what He has done for us. :)

Wives and submission

Ephesians 5:22 "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord."

So I talked a little about this in yesterday's post. Women's lib is such a mistake. I'm not saying in any sense that women shouldn't have rights, be able to vote, that type of thing. Women need to have legal rights that are equal to men, but we are not here to be above them. We need to take a long, hard look at how we expect our families to run. In a family, wether you live with your parents or a husband, there can only be one person in charge, one person who runs the spirtual life, makes decisions, works on finances, and so on. I think that women definetly have a say in these decisions, that they are part of this family unit and are affected by all these decisions, but in the end, these decisions are the man's to make. We wonder why so many marriages end, when all we have to do is look around at these families where women can not just stand back, and accept the decions that their husbands make that will benefit them.

Some women look at this and you hear them stamp around saying that it takes a spineless women to just "bow down and take it". First, I never said anything about bowing down and taking it. I have always been in a blessed position where men have taken my opinons very seriously and have always taken my opinion in to consideration, allowing for things that mater to me to help guide, although not make, their final choice. But when it comes down to those women saying that it takes someone who is spineless to allow this, think about something. It's actually much harder to trust in someone else's choices, trusting that they will open their hearts to God to make the right choice. Many women are so set on 'my way or no way', and they don't take time to step back and let one person to think about the overall benefit to the entire family, not just thinking about what's best for one person. It's so easy to think about yourself, to decide what you want and then push for it. Try just once to sit down, talk about it, write about it, and then turn it over. If you truly believe, God will guide the hearts around you to make decisions that are really good for everyone.

For more food for thought, think about this: Titus 2:3 - 5 "The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed."

Submission to God's Will

Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. (Colossians 3:18-21).

This one is a continuation of the other day. Again, God is very specific about what He wants and what's appopriate. He expects that there is an order to things, that certain people will be in charge, and He is very clear that you need to obey those people unconditionally.

In today's society, women are expected to be these take charge, overbearing types. We are expected to want to be tops in our fields, to go after everything and hit people down on the way. I'm not saying that women can't enjoy working or do things on their own, but this whole idea of women's lib is sort of out there. It takes a lot more patience and courage to be able to understand that you can have your own life, but are still responsible to someone else. A family unit, whether it be children with their parents, or husband and wife, you still have a leader that needs to be in charge for the family to run smoothly spirtualy, economically, etc. It sounds it a little odd to break it down to such basics, but that's just what God expects.

"And if you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth." (Deuteronomy 28:1)

Again, God expects us to be obedient to His word. He does not simple ask or request it if we feel like it. If we expect to spend time with Him, we must do what he wants. I have had to work hard to see past this notion of making myself happy, reminding myself that His love is far more important. It can be difficult to think beyond the world that we live in to eternity, but that is what really matters. I love reading how people can feel and understand this so easily, hoping that the more I learn, study, and work, I will get closer to that ease and understanding. I want to be able to understand the way other people do. But that is why we all keep learning and studying!

Scones

This is a super yummy recipe. It makes 16 scones. They are great to bring to any event or potluck, but also store well if you make them just for your family! They come out as nice little triangles and are great served plain, as well as with a little jam, jelly, butter, cream, etc.

Scones
2 1/2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder (heaping)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick margarine
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 pint (equals 1 cup or 8 ounces) sour cream
1/2 cup raisins*

Preheat oven to 450 F. Mix dry ingredients. Cut in the margarine to make it a coarse meal. Add raisins. Use spoon to mix in sour cream and complete mixture. If sticky, use more flour until bowl and spoon come out clean. Turn out onto slightly floured surface and flour hands. Knead lightly. Divide into 2 equal parts and flatten into circles 1/2 inch thick. Cute each circle in to 8 wedges and seperate. Place the wedges staggered on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake about 12 minutes until bottoms are a medium brown. Cool on racks.

*Raisins are optional. I happen to prefer them plain, but the rest of my family loves the raisins. I have also put in chocolate chips. You can also add other things like raspberries or blueberries, although that makes the dough wetter and you may need to add more flour. Also, they may tint the batter a different color, depending on how wet they are, so just be aware.

Humility

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. (Colossians 3:12 - 14)

As a women, it is so absolutely important that you bear witness to these things. Humility is probably the most important, but one that can be a challenge to keep. Giving praises to God is the most important thing that a person can do and part of the way to do that is to be humble. This includes how you behave, talk, dress, work with others, and how you live every aspect of your entire life.

First. you should not be dressing in a way to reveal your body in inapprorpiate ways. A part of a women's job is to hold herself for her husband. Some women feel that sharing their body is a great way to attract men and feel they should sleep around or things like that. You need to hold yourself for your husband and should be ready to share that with the world!

The way you talk and behave is also extremely important. Are you loud? Do you use inaprorpiate words or hand gestures? Do you sit or act in a way that does not show love for your body, which is a gift from God? You need to be sure that you are holding and carrying yourself like a lady, ready to speak of God's word and how that influences your life! Be ready to praise and share what you know to be true!!

In your job, wether you are a student, a teacher, a doctor or anything else, be ready to credit God with all your success. You couldn't get where you are without Him and won't keep going if He chooses another path for you.

Hold in the commandments that beloved God wants for you. You are one of his wonderful, special children, and He only wants wonderful things for you, but will not tolerate you doing what you want and not His word.

Keep My Commandments

If you love Me, keep my commandments. (John 14:15)

Keep my commandments. Sounds easy. I reflect on the fact that He has laid out exactely what is expected. He has asked that we do certain things, avoid some things. I crave a life like that, long to live His word and show the world the truth. It's not an option, we can't choose to not lead this life or expect to only lead certain parts. As a women, I long to lead a good life, but find the struggle always there. I have often turned to other women in my church, Bible study, friends for support. Hopefully others find the support that they need to be able to live this life - I know I can't get through without it. Just remember that He will love us always and wants to see us come home to him. Is there anyone looking to take that walk with company?

question

I feel that over the course of the last few years, my faith has grown and become stronger, but still feel like I am no where near where God longs for me to be or where I want to be. I know God loves me, and I don't deserve it. I see so many good examples of faith and love around me, and would love to be able to live that example. I would love to hear how others stay on their walk of faith and maybe find more people to take that walk with!! In all His blessings and Glory, have a good evening!!

Love

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and will all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. (Mark 12:30)

God's love is great! He provides a great example to live by and expects the same for us. What does the world give us? It gives us a lot of reason to hate, mistrust, and fighting. Having come back to Him in the last few years, sometimes people don't take my faith for all it's worth. I think that others expect me to live the way that I used to. The life that I lead was my own doing, and I know I don't always this love from God and others, but I find that I struggle to pass out what God expects. My prayer has helped me a lot with this, and I find that reading has helped. I found a book called The Power of a Praying Women by Stormie O'Martin that has many wonderful Biblical references and great practical ideas to help me out. OK, so this is a little rambly, but I guess it covers a topic that is so easy to go on about.

So how do we show God's love? It is how we treat others and how we share His word with others. I am working hard to be able to do those things and it's a valuable area for everyone to be a part of. Sharing His love can come out in spending time with friends and family, spending time with people who you don't have see. It's nice to be able to share your time with those that are important to you. What about working at church? Start a project with the kids that go to your church, provide service time helping out your pastor, help organize a community service project with other worshippers. The possibilities are endless!!!

Change

For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 4:7-8)

A holy life! What a wonderful calling, a beautiful way to live. :) I wish I could be so perfect as to say that this was true for me, but only know that I can continue to live and work to become more able in that way. God shows and tells us how to live a pure and perfect life, He has left us the scriptures and guidance, so there is no question about what we do. We all know how to do. My walk is continuous, and I find that it is such a great and beautiful thing! I know I have a lot to learn, but find myself becoming more peaceful, more filled with love and laughter! It is a great thing! One of my recent experiences was at Ash Wednesday services. I had gone up to receive my ashes from the pastor. When he was saying the blessing over me, there was this feeling of such pure peace, love, happiness. I was standing there, receiving this pure love straight from Him. It was great to walk down the street later in the middle of New York, with the cross of the Lord for all to see. It came in waves and I can only begin to hope that I can hold on to that feeling forever, even if I am not blessed with it again. I know God is there!

How to start......

Ok, so this is day one for me. This is a new adventure for me and I'm not sure in which direction I am heading, but hope I can get some neat things going and make some new friends, all while celebrating God and what he has done for us. I grew up Catholic, received all my scraments, went to church, etc, but never felt close to God. I can't say that I am proud of the fact that I could express little from the Bible, but just went through the motions, and even walked away from the church for a while. It was not a good time for me. I was invited by a friend to attend her Lutheran church a few years ago while living in northern Virginia, right outside of DC, and for the first time felt like I was really learning His will for me. I began to feel how learning His word really soothed me, calmed me, how I felt so much more loved. I am hoping to begin to express my feelings in writing, but know that I am far from perfect. As I go along, let me talk to me, write your feelings and reactions, share your opinions. All those things are part of learning and growing as a Christian (and it's so much more worthwhile with friends). To all my friends in Him, have a great week!