summer is in full swing and i couldn't be happier about it! i'm at the pool every chance i get, i crave sonic ice about 2pm every day. i'm obsessed with their happy hour! its the perfect summer treat on a hot day! i love the smell of sunscreen and chlorine mixed with a spritz of coconut tanning oil. ahh i love summer!
so since my last post i got my car back- good as new:) thank the Lord for the brosins and CREST! they take gooood care of me. i'm an all too frequent customer:/
i finished my junior year at DBU and passed math!! praise the Lord! it is only by His grace and mercy that not only did i pass but i made a better grade than i anticipated!
i am now a member of the village church! i went to membership class last weekend (there is a whole long process that takes place when desiring to be a member and again, by the Lord's grace and mercy, i was accepted to the membership class!) and now i'm a covenant member! i can't wait to begin serving with the village, it is home and i couldn't be happier:)
and as of most recent.... i have a new position at vandergriff honda! today is my last day at the reception desk and tomorrow i will continue training as a service cashier. so far i'm loving the new position. the hours are better and i get more of them. no more getting off at 9pm! such a blessing!
last night the dbu patriots best oral roberts to advance to super regionals! first time in dbu history! they'll play california at santa clara univ. go patriots!
thursday morning the whole family will be flying to st. louis for josh's wedding! yay for family fun! and i will get to see britt!! he's been in australia for the past few months and i've not been able to communicate with him.
other than that life is pretty much the same. i'm not complaining. i love simple summer living.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Saturday, April 16, 2011
a week in review
monday:
spring revival and leadership dinner- so great! we had worship night with anthony evans and chip- a DBU alum, now youth pastor in new orleans, spoke. such a great day!
tuesday:
the movie country strong came out so of course we rented it and have a movie night! katie, one of my roommates, and i baked cookies and drooled over garrett hedlund.
wednesday:
pretty uneventful. went to lunch at chikfila with lyssa and whitney, class, then work.
thursday:
difficult day- it marked 10 months since my dad died. some 14ths are just like any other day and some hit me hard, this happened to be a hard one. i was comforted by the love God poured out to me through His children. what a loving, faithful, kind, generous, supportive God i have. i'm so thankful he is who he said he is and does what he says he's going to do. the more time we spend together the more i understand and i am overwhelmed with a peace that can only come from him. he is decreasing my desire for the things of this world and increasing my desire for him. the freedom that comes from the chains of this world being shattered is such a delight. it feels as though weight is physically removed from me. it is still a work in progress but each step forward is closer to Christ and that is closer than i am now so yay for improvement!
-that night we went to billybobs for some country dancing and on the way there i had a little accident:( while driving in a construction zone i hit a curb and busted my tire. thank the Lord my friend matt was with us and changed the tire! only to find out that i messed something up:/ by Gods provision we made it home safely but as soon as i got back on campus my car started making this grinding noise and steering weird so i parked it and went to bed.
matt putting his man skills to good use
whitney helping
proud of my dirty hands
(even though i wasn't any help)
matt was pretty proud of himself
friday:
i had my first 'tow'! no, its not an exciting thing but i embraced the new experience and laughed as i rode with the 'tow men' to the dealership to get my car fixed. throughout the whole experience God was sovereign (as always) and took care of every last detail. i'm so thankful for my cousin caleb! i text him with my problem and he told me just what to do, got me fixed up and on my way as soon as i arrived. the coolest part of the story is this: while awkwardly snuggled b/t the 'tow men' on the way to the dealership i was able to share the Gospel! i prayed that God would open the door and he said 'here you go'- so i went. it was exhilarating. admittedly i don't share enough, im a chicken, a coward. i always feel that it's going to awkward or they're gonna be annoyed with me but the Lord have given us not a spirit of timidity but one of power, love, and self-dicipline. 1 Timothy 1:7. we had about an hour drive and most of that time was spent in conversation about God's love and goodness. oh how good it felt to plant those seeds and fulfill the call God has placed on my life to 'go tell'! the excitement and pure joy that came from that experience is unlike any other emotion. what my mom usually refers to as a 'God thing'- i agree.
i'm sorry, poor car:(
- last night we had a movie night and just relaxed. i love chill nights just hanging out and girl talking with good friends. i almost made it to sleep before 12 which i have not done in a lonnng time.
today:
i'm working the early shift, quite cheerfully thanks to starbucks, and plan on laying out when i get off. i'm so pumped about attending church tonight! i love the saturday night service! the next membership class will be in june- count me in! i cannot wait to be a covenant member and begin serving at The Village!
movie review:
last weekend we saw 'soul surfer' and i would say it's worth seeing.
during the previews they showed clips from an upcoming movie from the makers of 'fireproof' called 'courageous' and i cannnnnot wait to see it!
here is the trailer:
-Psalm 103
Saturday, April 9, 2011
perfect day!
Today is the PERFECT day! with the exception that I had to come to work. yuck. i would so much rather be laying by the pool! my friend katie from tyler came down and spent the night with me. we woke up, ate some good breakfast and met whitney and some other friends at the pool. we had so much fun laughing, talking and just enjoying the hot weather and cool water. 2:00 meant happy hour at sonic so off we went. nothing like a strawberry limeade slush with vanilla at half price!
after work we're going to see 'soul surfer'. i've heard it is supposed to be pretty good so i'm looking forward to seeing it
i'm really ready for church tomorrow! i LOVE the village and love how the Lord is working in me through that church. if you're ever in the dallas area on a saturday evening or sunday morning you should stop by and check it out, you won't regret it!
my last post was in anticipation of some sunny weather so i could lay out and boy did the Lord provide! not only did i get my tan on today but last weekend as well. i was loving it! on saturday i slept in, laid out, and then attended church. it was wonderful! sunday i slept in, went to the pool, met my mom and one of her friends in arlington for some dinner and then watched this show called dexter. i may or may not be becoming MILDLY addicted to this show. i've only seen a couple episode but its so weird and interesting and i can't not know what going to happen next. i'm have also become increasingly addicted to twitter! follow me @meisemily!
last week was a great week. the Lord is continually teaching me and enriching my life using His children and i love love love it. i love the friendships He is growing and the people that He has placed in my life for this time. for the first time in a long time i'm looking forward instead of just living in the moment. i only have one more year of school left- CRAZY! i better start looking forward! before i know it, i'll be graduating and leaving the college life behind. scary? yes. ready? hopefully so! does God have me in the palm of Him hand? always. i choose to see this as an opportunity for Him to increase my faith and show me more of who He is and what He has for me. so thinking about it like that makes me pretty excited!
i'm still obsessed with Adele- no surprise there- but i've also jumped on the 'Mumford and Son' train, as well as 'Florence & The Machine' but the more I listen to those artist the more I realize that nothing can speak to my soul like Shawn McDonald, Shane&Shane, and Kari Jobe. The way the Lord uses music in my life is so neat. i feel myself falling more and more in love with Him every day and the more i love Him the more i desire Him. i love the feeling of not being able to get enough of Him. its only by His grace and mercy that i can approach Him and the fact that He hears me, loves me, and cares about me leaves me in awe. His faithfulness is something i wont be able to understand until i am in Heaven- can't wait for that day:)
after work we're going to see 'soul surfer'. i've heard it is supposed to be pretty good so i'm looking forward to seeing it
i'm really ready for church tomorrow! i LOVE the village and love how the Lord is working in me through that church. if you're ever in the dallas area on a saturday evening or sunday morning you should stop by and check it out, you won't regret it!
my last post was in anticipation of some sunny weather so i could lay out and boy did the Lord provide! not only did i get my tan on today but last weekend as well. i was loving it! on saturday i slept in, laid out, and then attended church. it was wonderful! sunday i slept in, went to the pool, met my mom and one of her friends in arlington for some dinner and then watched this show called dexter. i may or may not be becoming MILDLY addicted to this show. i've only seen a couple episode but its so weird and interesting and i can't not know what going to happen next. i'm have also become increasingly addicted to twitter! follow me @meisemily!
last week was a great week. the Lord is continually teaching me and enriching my life using His children and i love love love it. i love the friendships He is growing and the people that He has placed in my life for this time. for the first time in a long time i'm looking forward instead of just living in the moment. i only have one more year of school left- CRAZY! i better start looking forward! before i know it, i'll be graduating and leaving the college life behind. scary? yes. ready? hopefully so! does God have me in the palm of Him hand? always. i choose to see this as an opportunity for Him to increase my faith and show me more of who He is and what He has for me. so thinking about it like that makes me pretty excited!
i'm still obsessed with Adele- no surprise there- but i've also jumped on the 'Mumford and Son' train, as well as 'Florence & The Machine' but the more I listen to those artist the more I realize that nothing can speak to my soul like Shawn McDonald, Shane&Shane, and Kari Jobe. The way the Lord uses music in my life is so neat. i feel myself falling more and more in love with Him every day and the more i love Him the more i desire Him. i love the feeling of not being able to get enough of Him. its only by His grace and mercy that i can approach Him and the fact that He hears me, loves me, and cares about me leaves me in awe. His faithfulness is something i wont be able to understand until i am in Heaven- can't wait for that day:)
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
today
my day looks like most other days but i felt like updating so here it is:
today is my favorite kind of day! rainy&cold:) in an ideal world i would be snuggled up under a blanket with coffee and a book or movie but alas i'm a working college student so work and school must be attended.
i've been trying to get my tan on by the pool for the past 3 days but the weather will not cooperate. i checked the forecast and friday, saturday and sunday look very promising!
my newest obsessions:
-Adele's cd 21.
i love love love it. i listen to it most of the day and when i'm not listening to it i'm humming it in my head. my friends are all addicted as well:)
-Iced Skinny Caramel Macchiatos.
they're only 140 calories for a grande and so good! i'll upload a photo of what my desk looks like at the moment but its very similar to other photos i've uploaded- coffee and computer but this time i'm also attempting to do some math homework. i have a test on friday and i'm not prepared so i've got to get on the ball!
what God has been teaching me:
friendship-
i love that God has blessed me with new friendships and deepening existing ones. He has shown me the importance of having and being an honest friend. God is using a painful experience in my life to show me where i need to improve.
James 1: 2-3
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
reliance-
i cannot do anything on my own. when things are difficult i realize this full well and rely on God for my needs but when things are going well i seem to forget that it is not of my own doing. i know the strength comes from the Lord but i forget the importance of being on my knees consulting Him on my every move.
2 corinthians 12:9-10
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
this is why i am to delight in difficult situations, bad days, and the everyday gunk of this world. it all pushes me back to the foot of the cross and the comforting arms of Jesus. when i'm weak i rely on Him and not on myself. i'm working on not asking God to fix the situation but fix what is broken in me and reveal to me what needs to change based on how i respond to my circumstances.
acceptance-
i'm still in the beginning stages of this one... God is reveling to me that i put entirely too much importance on being accepted by man and not enough on the acceptance He's already given the through the gift of Jesus. i take for granted that God accepts me as i am- a nasty sinner- and focus my attention on gaining the acceptance and approval of the people around me. i'm willing to compromise on the things of God for the gain of the things of this world. idolator. thats me. the part that constantly leaves me speechless and in awe of my God is that not only does He forgive me for this but He welcomes me back and asks me to give Him the burdens that i gained in the process. i betray him and yet he still desires to fix the mess i made for myself. wow. thank you Lord.
i'll leave you with a sermon by Matt Chandler- lead pastor of The Village Church- talking about idols. hello eye opener.
http://northway.thevillagechurch.net/resource_files/audio/201103201115FMWC21ASAAA_MattChandler_HabakkukPt8-AmericanMonkeys.mp3
today is my favorite kind of day! rainy&cold:) in an ideal world i would be snuggled up under a blanket with coffee and a book or movie but alas i'm a working college student so work and school must be attended.
i've been trying to get my tan on by the pool for the past 3 days but the weather will not cooperate. i checked the forecast and friday, saturday and sunday look very promising!
::insert me and my ipod here::
my newest obsessions:
-Adele's cd 21.
i love love love it. i listen to it most of the day and when i'm not listening to it i'm humming it in my head. my friends are all addicted as well:)
-Iced Skinny Caramel Macchiatos.
they're only 140 calories for a grande and so good! i'll upload a photo of what my desk looks like at the moment but its very similar to other photos i've uploaded- coffee and computer but this time i'm also attempting to do some math homework. i have a test on friday and i'm not prepared so i've got to get on the ball!
minus the math:)
what God has been teaching me:
friendship-
i love that God has blessed me with new friendships and deepening existing ones. He has shown me the importance of having and being an honest friend. God is using a painful experience in my life to show me where i need to improve.
James 1: 2-3
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
reliance-
i cannot do anything on my own. when things are difficult i realize this full well and rely on God for my needs but when things are going well i seem to forget that it is not of my own doing. i know the strength comes from the Lord but i forget the importance of being on my knees consulting Him on my every move.
2 corinthians 12:9-10
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
this is why i am to delight in difficult situations, bad days, and the everyday gunk of this world. it all pushes me back to the foot of the cross and the comforting arms of Jesus. when i'm weak i rely on Him and not on myself. i'm working on not asking God to fix the situation but fix what is broken in me and reveal to me what needs to change based on how i respond to my circumstances.
acceptance-
i'm still in the beginning stages of this one... God is reveling to me that i put entirely too much importance on being accepted by man and not enough on the acceptance He's already given the through the gift of Jesus. i take for granted that God accepts me as i am- a nasty sinner- and focus my attention on gaining the acceptance and approval of the people around me. i'm willing to compromise on the things of God for the gain of the things of this world. idolator. thats me. the part that constantly leaves me speechless and in awe of my God is that not only does He forgive me for this but He welcomes me back and asks me to give Him the burdens that i gained in the process. i betray him and yet he still desires to fix the mess i made for myself. wow. thank you Lord.
i'll leave you with a sermon by Matt Chandler- lead pastor of The Village Church- talking about idols. hello eye opener.
http://northway.thevillagechurch.net/resource_files/audio/201103201115FMWC21ASAAA_MattChandler_HabakkukPt8-AmericanMonkeys.mp3
Saturday, March 26, 2011
sadie hawkins!
Today:
Bring on the coffee! I'm loving Starbucks iced coffee right about NOW! At work, tired, and have a long day ahead but worth it for a fun night out with friends!
Sadie Hawkins:
Last night was sadie hawkins and we had such a good time! It was a country themed dance at Eddie Deans Ranch downtown Dallas. We ate some amazing BBQ and danced, danced, danced!
running late but worth the wait!
 |
| justin and me about to leave |
whitney and jacob rode with us
roommates!
ready to daaaance!
jacob and whitney
accidental twinks!
monica and me after a lot of dancing- it was so hot in there!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
March already?!
Is it really March? It seems like the months are flying by! I can't believe that it is not only March but we are almost in the 3rd week of March. That is a wonderful week in the lives of many college students b/c that means SPRING BREAK! I cannot wait to head home and see my family and friends. It has been over 2 months since I've been back to Atlanta. Not the longest time but it sure does feel like it. I really miss my friends and being in a small town with limited traffic and familiar faces. I miss my home too! I can't wait to pull into that long gravel drive and see the porch lights illuminating the wide frame and rustic logs. How fortunate that I get to call that lovely picture home! I also can't wait for ROMAN'S PIZZA! As a kid I grew up walking across main street with my cousin Britt almost every Wednesday night to eat that wonderful buffet before attending Mission Friends and GAs. I was hoping to get to relive that experience with him soon but he left last Sunday for Australia. He is going to live out his dreams of becoming a 'real cowboy'. I hate my dad doesn't get to see him now, he would be so proud! Kaci, his sister, planned a surprise going away surprise party for him last weekend and we had so much fun! Great job Kac!
fam @ surprise dinner
goodbye brunch at Joe T's
Update on the past month:
Austin Trip:
DBU took a group of student to the Capitol in Austin to show our support for the TEG. We had a great time and hopefully made a difference!
Beautiful Capitol on March 1, 2011
Pre-Sadie Hawkins:
2 weeks from yesterday will be Sadie Hawkins at DBU. I went to one Sadie Hawkins in high school but have yet to attend one in college so I thought, what better time that now? We'll be country dancin' the night away at Eddie Dean's Ranch in downtown dallas. Sticking true to "girls as the guys" tradition, asked one of my friends, Justin, to come with. The plan is for about 3 or 4 'pair' to all go together. Needless to say we are going to have such a fun time! I decided to surprise Justin and ask him in a fun way so here are some of the photos I took before I set everything up and one our friend Whitney took of the 'display'.
I taped this to the door in his apartment.
I didn't really give him much of a choice:)
I set this up while his roommate distracted him, turned on the 'Sadie Hawkins Dance' song by Reliant K and then ran outside and knocked on the door. He came out and SURPRISE!
He checked yes!
Giveaway:
I entered a giveaway on one of the blogs I follow and WON! This is the loot- i LOVE it!!
-flowery reusable shopping bag
-flowery note cards
-EOS lip balm (my new FAV!)
-decorative napkins
-potpourri
-flower hair clip
thank you Kaitlin Jones !
Today:
I'm working a FULL day, literally. I arrived at 8am and I'll get off at 9pm, which gives me plenty of time to blog! among a plethora of other things to keep my attention in between phone calls. I needed a little help waking up this morning so Starbucks came to the rescue!
skinny caramel macchiato:)
Spring break has sprung and I have to work will Tuesday so I'll make the trip to ATL on Wednesday with a layover in Tyler to visit my friend Katie Westberry! It has been way too long since I've seen her and I can't wait for us to catch up!
Spiritually: (i always like to end on the best note:))
God is faithful. God is merciful. God is gracious. God loves me and I have NO IDEA why. I am so undeserving but so grateful! He is whispering such sweet words of affirmation to my spirit, giving me a calm that only He can provide. He shows me that I can 'sweat and toil' but it is in vain. He is the builder and only by my obedience will things work out for His glory. Obedience. Seems like such a simple concept but I struggle with it every second. I open my hands before the Lord, surrendering all my plans, and before I can say amen I've already reclaimed them as my own. What is with me?! He wants to take care of me. He just wants me to follow Him, I needn't worry about a thing but yet I still strive and toil and worry away when God has already told me time and time again that I need just to obey. I'm working on it!
"Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat- for he grants sleep to those he loves." Psalm 127:1-2
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
:: insert cliche' title about love here::
i'm already improving my blogging frequency which isn't that much of an accomplishment if no one reads your blog.. but this is more for me than for anyone else so, yay me!
yesterday was valentines day, but you already knew that. i used to be a "ba-hum-bug" when it came to this day- focusing on my lack of a 'special someone' in my life but after the valentines day i had last year, who can not like a day focused on love?! sure, commercialism has had its way with the celebration of this day but i choose to focus on the meaning of love and the author and perfecter of it.
let me start at the beginning- last valentines day. so on feb 14, 2010 i left for manila, philippines with about 10 other people in order to feed 5000 people. through this trip i saw God in a new way and experienced His love with a new excitement and intensity. being able to hand them food for their bellies and food for their souls was an experience like no other. this changed the way i thought about valentines day. being used by God to show and give His love on the day we set aside to celebrate love was beyond words. now i am a valentines day lover!
this year was not nearly as exciting as last but still fun. sunday night our house was full of glitter, poster board, markers and ribbon, not to mention the smell! pink pancakes & peanut butter cookies were in the making as we cut, glued and glittered. talk about a great way to spend a night with great girls in love. last night i went out with a few friends and celebrated being single with some mexican food! we had so much fun girl talking and then ending the night with a chick flick, none other than.. valentines day!
a whole lot has changed since last valentines day. a lot that has changed began when i returned from that trip to the philippines. this was my first valentines without 'my valentine' aka my dad. i'm not going to lie, it was so difficult to hear my friends talk about how their dad sent them flowers or bought them this or that. my dad was great about making me feel special and reassuring me of how much he loved me but this year i was comforted by the love of my Heavenly Father and He reassures me through His word that I am beautiful, lovely, precious, and much loved by Him.
this past weekend i led a disciple now weekend in decatur. i spent that time with 10 7th grade girls. talk about an interesting weekend! God spoke His truth into my life over and over again and is opening my eyes to a better understanding of who He is and what He requires from His children. the theme of the weekend was live pure. not only in body but in mind, soul, and heart as well. the past two weekends i have been fed the Gospel, sugar free, by great men of God. what a blessing!
this weekend is going to be AMAZING! my mom is coming into town on thursday (YAY!) i haven't seen her in a month! i will be able to attend the village church for the first time in 2 weeks and i'm so looking forward to it. i have really missed being at my church.
James 4:7-10:
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up."
yesterday was valentines day, but you already knew that. i used to be a "ba-hum-bug" when it came to this day- focusing on my lack of a 'special someone' in my life but after the valentines day i had last year, who can not like a day focused on love?! sure, commercialism has had its way with the celebration of this day but i choose to focus on the meaning of love and the author and perfecter of it.
let me start at the beginning- last valentines day. so on feb 14, 2010 i left for manila, philippines with about 10 other people in order to feed 5000 people. through this trip i saw God in a new way and experienced His love with a new excitement and intensity. being able to hand them food for their bellies and food for their souls was an experience like no other. this changed the way i thought about valentines day. being used by God to show and give His love on the day we set aside to celebrate love was beyond words. now i am a valentines day lover!
this year was not nearly as exciting as last but still fun. sunday night our house was full of glitter, poster board, markers and ribbon, not to mention the smell! pink pancakes & peanut butter cookies were in the making as we cut, glued and glittered. talk about a great way to spend a night with great girls in love. last night i went out with a few friends and celebrated being single with some mexican food! we had so much fun girl talking and then ending the night with a chick flick, none other than.. valentines day!
a whole lot has changed since last valentines day. a lot that has changed began when i returned from that trip to the philippines. this was my first valentines without 'my valentine' aka my dad. i'm not going to lie, it was so difficult to hear my friends talk about how their dad sent them flowers or bought them this or that. my dad was great about making me feel special and reassuring me of how much he loved me but this year i was comforted by the love of my Heavenly Father and He reassures me through His word that I am beautiful, lovely, precious, and much loved by Him.
this past weekend i led a disciple now weekend in decatur. i spent that time with 10 7th grade girls. talk about an interesting weekend! God spoke His truth into my life over and over again and is opening my eyes to a better understanding of who He is and what He requires from His children. the theme of the weekend was live pure. not only in body but in mind, soul, and heart as well. the past two weekends i have been fed the Gospel, sugar free, by great men of God. what a blessing!
this weekend is going to be AMAZING! my mom is coming into town on thursday (YAY!) i haven't seen her in a month! i will be able to attend the village church for the first time in 2 weeks and i'm so looking forward to it. i have really missed being at my church.
James 4:7-10:
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up."
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Update much?
I can't believe it has been 5 months since my last post! I would love to have an amazing update full of interesting tidbits and exciting stories but that isn't the case. Since my last post not a lot has changed. The Fall semester ended and now the Spring semester is in full swing. These past couple of weeks have been pretty interesting considering DBU was covered in ice and SNOW! I don't think I've ever experienced snow like we had last week. School was cancelled Tuesday through Friday and then again today! I am loving this time off but my brain doesn't seem to be able to keep up as well. It goes into shut down mode and doesn't want to think once school reconvenes.
My last post was in a state of pure bliss and this one comes from a very similar state. Although my surroundings are very different the state of my heart is even better. God has shown me just how patient he is and is now teaching me to have patience of my own. I am sitting in 'my circle' at Vgriff listening to the buzz of the overhead lights. The sun is setting, traffic is backed up on I-20, people are not in the car looking mood in this 20 degree weather. In my last post I was basking in the freshness of the cool breeze, now I'm shivering by a tiny heater to escape the bitter wind! Don't mistake that for complaining because I certainly am not. I LOVE the cold weather. LOVE. Even though I make silly faces walking in it and can't feel my face after having spent any time outside, I LOVE it. I will be happy to see spring come but so sad to see the cool/ freezing weather go.
We have a new roommate in 4D! Katie is a great new addition not only to our little house but to my life! She is great. We have all become friends quickly and mesh well together. Alyssa (my current roommate), Katie, and I are going to be living together again next semester as well. Oh the fun we will have! Being 'snowed in' provided us with the perfect excuse to break out the pots and pans. Last week we baked, cooked, crockpotted, brunched, lunched, and so much more. We were constantly making food. We had a movie night every night as we anxiously awaited the text from DBU informing us of another 'Inclement Weather Day'! When we got those beloved texts we would celebrate! Many a fingernail was polished, movie watched, and morning enjoyed by sleeping in. What a great way to spend a week:)
This past weekend I was fortunate enough to get to be a leader at FBC Meridian, TX. The Lord continued to open the eyes of my heart and mind. The speaker for the weekend was amazing and presented the gospel truth, sugar free. So often at DNow weekends you hear some sugar coated message about behavior modification, not this weekend! The theme verse was Matthew 7: 13-14:
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14: But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only few find it."
I've heard this verse plenty of times but this weekend we fleshed this out and really looked at our relationship with God and examined the condition of our hearts. I had an amazing group of mature 9th & 10th grade girls. I miss these girls already! We learned about entering the Kingdom of God, counting the cost of being a disciple of Christ (Matthew 16:24), and then about treasuring God above all else(Matthew 13:44-45). I was so encouraged by this weekend and look forward to going to Decatur this weekend for a Live Pure weekend!
As far as my daily life goes, it is pretty routine. School, class, work, rinse & repeat. I love my little red house, the little roommates that inhabit that house with me and all the crazy things that transpire when we're all together. God is teaching me so much about Himself and I love the time we spend together. I am so blessed and thankful for His grace and mercy. Where would I be without it?
Psalm 23- pretty much sums up how God has been taking care of me.
1-3 God, my shepherd! I don't need a thing.
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.
4 Even when the way goes through
Death Valley,
I'm not afraid
when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd's crook
makes me feel secure.
5 You serve me a six-course dinner
right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head;
my cup brims with blessing.
6 Your beauty and love chase after me
every day of my life.
I'm back home in the house of God
for the rest of my life.
My last post was in a state of pure bliss and this one comes from a very similar state. Although my surroundings are very different the state of my heart is even better. God has shown me just how patient he is and is now teaching me to have patience of my own. I am sitting in 'my circle' at Vgriff listening to the buzz of the overhead lights. The sun is setting, traffic is backed up on I-20, people are not in the car looking mood in this 20 degree weather. In my last post I was basking in the freshness of the cool breeze, now I'm shivering by a tiny heater to escape the bitter wind! Don't mistake that for complaining because I certainly am not. I LOVE the cold weather. LOVE. Even though I make silly faces walking in it and can't feel my face after having spent any time outside, I LOVE it. I will be happy to see spring come but so sad to see the cool/ freezing weather go.
We have a new roommate in 4D! Katie is a great new addition not only to our little house but to my life! She is great. We have all become friends quickly and mesh well together. Alyssa (my current roommate), Katie, and I are going to be living together again next semester as well. Oh the fun we will have! Being 'snowed in' provided us with the perfect excuse to break out the pots and pans. Last week we baked, cooked, crockpotted, brunched, lunched, and so much more. We were constantly making food. We had a movie night every night as we anxiously awaited the text from DBU informing us of another 'Inclement Weather Day'! When we got those beloved texts we would celebrate! Many a fingernail was polished, movie watched, and morning enjoyed by sleeping in. What a great way to spend a week:)
This past weekend I was fortunate enough to get to be a leader at FBC Meridian, TX. The Lord continued to open the eyes of my heart and mind. The speaker for the weekend was amazing and presented the gospel truth, sugar free. So often at DNow weekends you hear some sugar coated message about behavior modification, not this weekend! The theme verse was Matthew 7: 13-14:
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14: But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only few find it."
I've heard this verse plenty of times but this weekend we fleshed this out and really looked at our relationship with God and examined the condition of our hearts. I had an amazing group of mature 9th & 10th grade girls. I miss these girls already! We learned about entering the Kingdom of God, counting the cost of being a disciple of Christ (Matthew 16:24), and then about treasuring God above all else(Matthew 13:44-45). I was so encouraged by this weekend and look forward to going to Decatur this weekend for a Live Pure weekend!
As far as my daily life goes, it is pretty routine. School, class, work, rinse & repeat. I love my little red house, the little roommates that inhabit that house with me and all the crazy things that transpire when we're all together. God is teaching me so much about Himself and I love the time we spend together. I am so blessed and thankful for His grace and mercy. Where would I be without it?
Psalm 23- pretty much sums up how God has been taking care of me.
1-3 God, my shepherd! I don't need a thing.
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.
4 Even when the way goes through
Death Valley,
I'm not afraid
when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd's crook
makes me feel secure.
5 You serve me a six-course dinner
right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head;
my cup brims with blessing.
6 Your beauty and love chase after me
every day of my life.
I'm back home in the house of God
for the rest of my life.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The Little Things.
Let me start by saying: God is good. Theses past few weeks have been full of God's goodness. My life is full of God's goodness but so often I fail to stop and take the time to see it, feel it, and rejoice in it. Boy have I been missing out!
Sunday was on of the best days I have had in a long time. Just so were all on the same page, I love rainy cold weather, sleeping in, reading Nicholas Sparks books, coffee, and alone time every now and then. I had been deprived of most of those things for a while but until recently I didn't know how much I missed them. I woke up mid morning and made myself a delicious breakfast, sat on the couch with one of my roommates as we watched a movie, and enjoyed being lazy. My roommate left for church and I opened the window in our living room to be enveloped by one of my favorite feelings.. COLD WEATHER! It was like I had been holding my breath and could finally breathe again. woo hoo, man that was great. I was all alone in my house and had the freedom to do whatever I wanted, no distractions. I turned out the lights, clicked on the lamp, reclined on the couch and read a book. I was one of the best feelings I had had in a long time. Just rest, relaxation, peace, total contentment. It may not seem like much to you but for me I felt like God knew exactly what I needed and gifted it to me. Wow, He's good:)
Later that day I went to my favorite grocery store- ALDI! I bought eggs, milk, and sour creme for the grand total of... less that $3! After that I went to church with one of my friends and God had another present waiting for me. Another thing I love, worship. I love to worship in song and I love love love to watch other people worship. There are so many different forms and styles and I love to see them all come together under one roof to worship the one God.
Last night Kari Jobe came to DBU and put on what they called a concert, umm it was not a concert. She ushered us into the presence of God. There were, I'm going to estimate, over 300 people with their hands lifted high singing praise to God. At one point I opened my eyes and from my seat in the balcony I witnessed the crowed of people at the altar and on the floor level bouncing, swaying, and crying out to God, reaching for Him as if to touch His face. The whole experience left most of us with puffy red eyes and light, joyful hearts. I have been to so many chapel service at DBU and many worship nights but I have never experienced the students at DBU like this. There was such freedom and openness. Everyone was praising God in their own way and yet there was such a feeling of unity. God showed up and showed out. Just another one of the things my heart desires and God granted.
So I haven't been keeping count but if I had been I'm sure I would have lost count by now. So many little things that I love and desire God has been providing. I also love my family and I love it when we can get together and enjoy each others company and this weekend we are going to do just that! Friday we are all going to Canton and spending the weekend at the Bro lake house.
So life is great and God is better. I'm so thankful for the contentment in my soul and the joy in my heart. What a mighty God I serve. My verse for this morning is this:
" How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" 1 John 3:1a
God knows my heart and the desires in them. He knows my strength and weaknesses and everything in between and the part that blows my mind is that not only does He still love me but He likes me too! He pursues me even though so often I'm pursuing other worldly things. But what I am learning is that if I would just chill out, stop chasing after my own desires and give it all to God, oh how things would change. God wants to give me the desires of my heart- He's proven that to me over and over again. The closer my walk is with the Lord the closer my heart, and the desires in it, is in tune with His. God is pursuing me, wooing me and He has my attention. When I turn my attention away from myself and this world and the things in it and focus it all on Him, well I'll let you know what happens.
Today is a new day but my God is the same. He is faithful and merciful and boy am I glad! I have missed out on too much of Him already by busying myself with the things of this world. Today that has changed. Today God is in His rightful place in my heart and mind- first. I have a feeling a lot is about to change. I feel like there is something brewing, like God is preparing my heart and life for something. Right now I have no idea what it is or when it will happen but no matter what it is, I know He'll be right there with me every step of the way. Wow God is good!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Life as I know it.
If this post had to be summed up in one word it would be: routine. School is in full swing and I am trying to keep on top of things so I don't get behind. I love my house and my roommates, school is hard but I'm so thankful to be back and I love attending chapel- I really missed it last year.
This post isn't really about anything, just decided to post b/c I hadn't in a while.
I'm currently at work. I love my job. I work as a receptionist at a car dealership in Arlington. It isn't far from school, I get to do my homework in between phone calls, and peruse the Internet:)
I am loving my little bug! I am so thankful every time I look at it. I still find myself somewhat surprised when my keys actually unlock it- b/c I can't believe it's really mine!
I love reading my friends blogs. I get lost in their daily routines and neat stories and enjoy keeping up with what is going on in their lives. I am so entertained by their posts but feel sorry for anyone that reads mine, its not that exciting!
God has been teaching me about faithfulness recently. He is faithful always. Always. I am going to work on my faithfulness to Him. When I compare His faithfulness to my faithfulness.. well, there is no comparison- He wins, BIG time.
I'm working on getting into a solid routine. My class and work schedules are set but I find it difficult to be consistent with my activities otherwise. Something else I get to put on my 'to do' list.
The weather in Dallas is cuh-ray-zee! It stormed for most of the day and just about the time the sun began to show itself we were bombarded with tornados! I went on a rain boot hunt between classes and none were to be found! Target and Wal-Mart failed me:( Thank goodness for Charming Charlie's!
I guess it is time to say farewell when I start talking about the weather.
-Emily
Sunday, August 22, 2010
It's more than time for an update!
It has been a while since my last post and so many things have changed. I have experienced God is such new and intimate ways in the past few months. My last post was not long after I arrived back home and this post comes the day before I start my junior year at DBU. In my last entry I said I did not know what to expect upon my arrival in Texas- I didn't realize how right I was. Only God could have prepared me for what was about to take place.
The past 6 months have been extremely hard, stressful, painful, but oh so rewarding and such a blessing. I had the privilege of witnessing my father take his last breath on this earth after years and years of suffering. As my family and I gathered around my dad's hospital bed, holding hands and crying and praising the Father, we watched as my father saw Glory. I can't help but smile when I think back to that exact moment. The Holy Spirit was in that room and filled each one of our bodies. Not knowing what to expect is putting it mildly but what we experienced can only be described as an encounter with God himself. The Bible talks about 'the peace of God that surpasses all understanding' (Philippians 4:7) and there is no doubt in my mind that my family and I had that peace poured out on us.
Living life without my dad has been one of the hardest things I have ever done, but I bet you already knew that. I miss him every single second but those seconds are so worth it because I know that it means my dad is in the presence of the God of the universe. My dad lived the last 18 years of his life for that God and now he gets to spend eternity with him. WOW. What we have to look forward to.
It has been over two months since my dad left this earth. Two challenging months for my family and me to learn to lean on God in a new way. Two challenging months for us to learn how to live without my dad, to learn how to function with a big hole in our hearts. But for my dad it has been the blink of an eye at the feet of the Most High. One of my dad's favorite verses from a song comes from Amazing Grace and it says: "when we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we'd first begun." My dad loved that verse in Amazing Grace and now he is getting to live it! So yes, my heart hurts and my eyes sting from the tears that fall but nothing compares to the peace my God gives me and the blessed assurance that my dad is healed and will never hurt again. Praise Him! My dad beginning eternity is the most life changing thing to occur since I secured my place in eternity and won't be the last. It might always be the 'biggest' but certainly not the last.
Like I said, the past two months have been hard, duh, but they have also been FULL of other things too, mostly blessings and change. God has blessed me with the privilage of continuing my education at DBU, finding an amazing house on campus, getting a job, and oh yeah, a new car:) Thank you Lord(and the Brosins)!
I always knew my mom was a fighter, warrier (like Xena:)), source of strength and a wonderful caretaker but over the past few months her status has gone to superhero! WOW, that woman. How grateful I am to have her blood run through my veins. She is a constant inspiration to me and I can't help but think of the smile she must keep on God's face. I know I'm proud of her and I'm just her daughter. I see new attributes of God thanks to her example. Thank you Lord for her.
My family has been such a support as well as church family and the community. Just when you think people can't be any nicer or encouraging or helpful, God just goes and shows out. Thank you Lord for them.
Tomorrow brings the first day classes at DBU- my first day to attend classes on campus since I left for Hong Kong. I know more change is just waiting for me around the corner but if I've learned anything it's that God doesn't change no matter how my circumstances do. Thank you Lord for being YOU.
James 1: 2-8
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does"
The past 6 months have been extremely hard, stressful, painful, but oh so rewarding and such a blessing. I had the privilege of witnessing my father take his last breath on this earth after years and years of suffering. As my family and I gathered around my dad's hospital bed, holding hands and crying and praising the Father, we watched as my father saw Glory. I can't help but smile when I think back to that exact moment. The Holy Spirit was in that room and filled each one of our bodies. Not knowing what to expect is putting it mildly but what we experienced can only be described as an encounter with God himself. The Bible talks about 'the peace of God that surpasses all understanding' (Philippians 4:7) and there is no doubt in my mind that my family and I had that peace poured out on us.
Living life without my dad has been one of the hardest things I have ever done, but I bet you already knew that. I miss him every single second but those seconds are so worth it because I know that it means my dad is in the presence of the God of the universe. My dad lived the last 18 years of his life for that God and now he gets to spend eternity with him. WOW. What we have to look forward to.
It has been over two months since my dad left this earth. Two challenging months for my family and me to learn to lean on God in a new way. Two challenging months for us to learn how to live without my dad, to learn how to function with a big hole in our hearts. But for my dad it has been the blink of an eye at the feet of the Most High. One of my dad's favorite verses from a song comes from Amazing Grace and it says: "when we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's praise than when we'd first begun." My dad loved that verse in Amazing Grace and now he is getting to live it! So yes, my heart hurts and my eyes sting from the tears that fall but nothing compares to the peace my God gives me and the blessed assurance that my dad is healed and will never hurt again. Praise Him! My dad beginning eternity is the most life changing thing to occur since I secured my place in eternity and won't be the last. It might always be the 'biggest' but certainly not the last.
Like I said, the past two months have been hard, duh, but they have also been FULL of other things too, mostly blessings and change. God has blessed me with the privilage of continuing my education at DBU, finding an amazing house on campus, getting a job, and oh yeah, a new car:) Thank you Lord(and the Brosins)!
I always knew my mom was a fighter, warrier (like Xena:)), source of strength and a wonderful caretaker but over the past few months her status has gone to superhero! WOW, that woman. How grateful I am to have her blood run through my veins. She is a constant inspiration to me and I can't help but think of the smile she must keep on God's face. I know I'm proud of her and I'm just her daughter. I see new attributes of God thanks to her example. Thank you Lord for her.
My family has been such a support as well as church family and the community. Just when you think people can't be any nicer or encouraging or helpful, God just goes and shows out. Thank you Lord for them.
Tomorrow brings the first day classes at DBU- my first day to attend classes on campus since I left for Hong Kong. I know more change is just waiting for me around the corner but if I've learned anything it's that God doesn't change no matter how my circumstances do. Thank you Lord for being YOU.
James 1: 2-8
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does"
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Change of Scenery
I type this entry from the comforts of my home in Texas. I left Hong Kong about 3 weeks ago to return home to help take care of my sick father. I did not know what to expect when I arrived home but I don't think I could have prepared myself for this. I was greeted at the airport by great friends from DBU and delivered home not long after. That was just the beginning of everyones generosity, kindness, and love that has been shown to my family and me in the past few weeks.
My dad is weak from the medicines and has a hard time adjusting to not being able to be independent. He has been a good 'patient' and I am so thankful that God has allowed me to be home with my family in this time. I am amazed at God's goodness through these hard times. I feel Him close to my family and I know it is His hand that holds us each day. There is no way we would be able to survive if it were not for His provision. We are so blessed by our family, church family, friends, and community. They have stepped in and helped in any and every way possible and I see God's hands and feet continually at work.
My dad is slowly recovering but we have complete faith in the Lord's plans. It seems like my dad takes a few strides forward and then has a fall back but nonetheless he is still making progress. Each day brings with it new challenges and new opportunities to trust God and press into Him ever more. While we do not welcome the trials and tribulations we are so thankful for the opportunities they bring. Each hospital visit, home health evaluation, doctor appointment, visit from friends, and concerned inquiries are open doors for us to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.
Psalm 1391 O LORD, you have searched meand you know me.2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD,
and abhor those who rise up against you?22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Your Love Is AMAZING
I'm not really sure how to start this post. My mind is full of so many different things and my emotions change with the second hand of my watch. So many things are changing and while my life seems to be in fast forward I feel like I'm moving in slow motion. The ground I am standing on is shaking but my foundation is upon the Rock. God is revealing more of himself to me and I am so thankful to be called His child. I am overwhelmed my the out pouring of love, support, kindness, compassion and generosity shown to me by my family and friends. Through the trials I get to praise God in the storm and find joy in the simple things. These hard times are litmus test for my life, like a magnifying glass for all the hidden sins and crutches I cover with busyness.
I went back to the Philippines over Chinese New Year and was able to be a part of a group that fed 5000 people. We went home to home in an impoverished community giving physical nourishment as well as spiritual. We shared the gospel with thousands of people, seeing many of them accept Christ for the first time and a few of them open their hardened hearts to Him again. When I try to put into words what this trip meant to me and how I grew because of it, words fail. All I know to say is that it was a 'God thing'. God "showed up and showed out". He answered YES to so many of our prayers and filled us with boldness, compassion, and love. What a mighty God we serve.
With the wind and waves rage around me I find comfort in the Lord. My circumstances do not determine my joy, my hope in the Lord does. "All of my life, in every season, You are still God, I have a reason to sing, I have a reason to worship. I will bring praise, I will bring praise, no weapon formed against me shall remain. I will rejoice I will declare God is my victory and He is here."
Friday, February 5, 2010
You Keep Me Guessing
Coffee cup waking me up
I gotta board a plane
And fly away
sometimes it feels like I’m
going at the speed of light
Can’t relax I’m movin to fast
I wanna find the gold
But I don’t have a map
I wish that I could know
What you’ve got in store for me
I try and try to read your mind
But I forget that patience is a virtue
Your teachin me to hold on tight
And I don’t know how the story ends
But I'll be alright cause you own it
I don’t know where the highway bends
But I’m doing just fine
Cause your in control
Even when I don’t know
Where my life’s gonna go
You’re keeping my guessing
Slow me down, show me around
I wanna see the world that I’ve been without
I am here and now the future is out of my hands
I trust in you and how you move
I won’t forget that patience is a virtue
You’re teaching me to hang on tight
Cause I don’t know how the story ends
But I’ll be alright cause you own it
And I don’t know where the highway bends
But I’m doin just fine
Cause your in control
Even when I don’t know
Where my life’s gonna go
You’re keeping me guessing
Seasons come and seasons go
But you decide
And I don’t know how the story ends
But ill be alright cause you own it
I don’t know where the highway bends
But I’m doing just fine
You’re in control
Even when I don’t know
Where my life’s gonna go
You’re keeping me guessing
You’re keeping me guessing
I gotta board a plane
And fly away
sometimes it feels like I’m
going at the speed of light
Can’t relax I’m movin to fast
I wanna find the gold
But I don’t have a map
I wish that I could know
What you’ve got in store for me
I try and try to read your mind
But I forget that patience is a virtue
Your teachin me to hold on tight
And I don’t know how the story ends
But I'll be alright cause you own it
I don’t know where the highway bends
But I’m doing just fine
Cause your in control
Even when I don’t know
Where my life’s gonna go
You’re keeping my guessing
Slow me down, show me around
I wanna see the world that I’ve been without
I am here and now the future is out of my hands
I trust in you and how you move
I won’t forget that patience is a virtue
You’re teaching me to hang on tight
Cause I don’t know how the story ends
But I’ll be alright cause you own it
And I don’t know where the highway bends
But I’m doin just fine
Cause your in control
Even when I don’t know
Where my life’s gonna go
You’re keeping me guessing
Seasons come and seasons go
But you decide
And I don’t know how the story ends
But ill be alright cause you own it
I don’t know where the highway bends
But I’m doing just fine
You’re in control
Even when I don’t know
Where my life’s gonna go
You’re keeping me guessing
You’re keeping me guessing
By: Francesca Battistelli
I feel like that song pretty much sums up the past few months of my life. God is so faithful. I am surrounded by His love and comfort and grace at all times. I am in awe of how just how great He is. I don't feel as if words are enough to describe the love and patience of my God. Sometimes I look in the mirror and wonder why He has kept me around for so long. I mess stuff up all the time and make things more difficult that they have to be and I overestimate myself and underestimate God's power but He still loves me and He even likes me too! It is hard to stay discouraged for long with a God like mine of your side.
Things in Hong Kong are going really well. On Feb 14th I'll be heading to Manila, Philippines to help feed 5000 people! The group consists of 11 people, male and female, youth and adults. I am really looking forward to this trip and don't think that it could come at a better time. Here in Hong Kong the 14th begins Chinese New Year which is a HUGE deal. For us westerners the 14th is a day all about love. That day of love will kick off a week of us getting to be the hands and feet of Christ, sharing His great love with the impoverished people of Manila. I can't think of a better way to spend a valentines day.
For those of you who are and have been praying for me, THANK YOU! I am feeling those prayers. I am encouraged by the stories mom tells me about those of you who ask about me and share your sweet words of encouragement with her. I am so blessed to have such a supportive family, church, and community of friends, I thank my God for you.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
getting back in the swing of things:)
I've been back in HK for a week now and it is not nearly as difficult as I thought it would be. I anticipated homesickness like before, if not worse, but I'm ok! It is purely a blessing from the Lord that I am more than content. I have a new resolve and hunger for the work Christ has for me and I look forward to what happens in the next few months. I had an amazing 2 weeks at home in Texas with my family and friends. Looking back it seems more like 2 days than 2 weeks but while I was there I cherished every second. Being back feels like I never left. I didn't really have much jet lag but I have been blessed with a lot of time to sleep so that could be why:)
The youth are excited to get back to Shillage as am I. I've enjoyed getting to spend time with them and hang out and getting back into a routine.
I have begun to read Captivating by John and Stasi Elderdge. Through this book I am getting a different view of God and it has really changed the way I interact and regard Him. One of the first verses I remember memorizing in Bible Drill was Genesis 1:27 "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him: male and female he created them." I have always known I was made in His image but this book really breaks down females and our desires from childhood to adulthood. It is a book about relationships but it sheds some important light on the most important relationship of all. God is the author of the best love story of all times, who better to look to for guidance in that department.
I'm not sure what this year will bring but I trust God, thanking Him for the good and knowing He will hold me through the struggles and trials. It is only for a little while that we will endure these trials, but these trials are the fire that refines our faith. I have to keep in mind that this life is just the dress rehearsal, not the main performance. Opening night comes at Christ's return and the curtain call will never come. This world is not my home, I am called to "live your lives as stranger here, in revernt fear"(1 Peter 1:17). We have so few days to do the work God has put us here for, so with the new year comes a new urgency for me. Facing each day as a blank canvas, well more like a paint by number, God has the plans all laid out, all I have to do is paint where He tells me.
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12
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