During our holiday in British Columbia in July, we were able to go to a U-Pick farm and pick berries. Strawberry season was finished, and blueberry picking would be in another week. So, we picked raspberries.
I have good memories as a young girl of going to a friend's farm in central Saskatchewan where they had two LOOONG rows of raspberries. We would go out and pick and eat as many berries as we wanted - and fresh rhubarb also!
It was fun to take the girls and have them experience something that I did as a child. They really enjoyed the experience, eating many, many berries along the way. We picked 5 buckets full!
As we walked down the rows I started to realize that the best berries were down below eyesight, hidden within the bushes. If I got on my knees and looked up under the leaves, I could find them, often in big bunches. They were the biggest and plumpest!
Of course there is a parallel to the Christian life, as with many things in nature.
We also grow the best when hidden from view, staying firmly planted near the roots. Free from trying to prove ourselves as "the best" for all to see, yet maintaining a secret and consistent connection with our Father, allows us to receive our sustenance from the vine, not from the praise of others. We don't burn out by trying to please everyone, but in the shadows of God's wings (or leaves) we can grow to maturity. We are not plucked for service before we are ready.
I was so grateful to God for revealing this life lesson to me through the humble raspberry. I thank Him for always teaching me new things about a life lived in Him.
July 24, 2011
At home where God has put me.
The girls and I (Sara) are in Canada. Tres bien, eh?! It has been a wonderful "homecoming".
We have really enjoyed our time here. We have seen lots of family and old friends, including my first friend in Canada, and my best friend from high school. It's been YEARS since we have met. We also spent an incredible week at Capernwray Harbor on Thetis Island and I feel so refreshed to return to Portantorchas and to ministry there. Thank you to all the wonderful staff there for hosting us!
British Columbia is beautiful. It is green and fresh. The mountains views are truly spectacular. Our ferry rides to and from Vancouver Island left me without words! Wow!
I have really loved my time here, being Canadian, and feeling like I belong here. It makes me happy. I am so thankful for my years here and for my citizenship.
I love Canada, however, my heart does not need to be here, or in the USA. Is Costa Rica where I feel most content? In this moment, the answer is yes. It has not always been this way, and it may not always be this way, but I thank God that my passion right now is to be where HE wants me to be. I am at home where God has put me.
Tonight, as I listened to worship music in Spanish, it immediately turned my heart to Costa Rica and to our ministry there. Spanish worship music penetrates a part of my spirit that English music does not! It reminds me that God is present in all languages and cultures.
In Psalm 19 the verses read:
1 "The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world."
I thank God for the almost 8 years that we have lived and ministered in Costa Rica. I thank Him for counting us worthy to proclaim His risen life to those around us. No hay nadie como tú, sólo Cristo!
We have really enjoyed our time here. We have seen lots of family and old friends, including my first friend in Canada, and my best friend from high school. It's been YEARS since we have met. We also spent an incredible week at Capernwray Harbor on Thetis Island and I feel so refreshed to return to Portantorchas and to ministry there. Thank you to all the wonderful staff there for hosting us!
British Columbia is beautiful. It is green and fresh. The mountains views are truly spectacular. Our ferry rides to and from Vancouver Island left me without words! Wow!
I have really loved my time here, being Canadian, and feeling like I belong here. It makes me happy. I am so thankful for my years here and for my citizenship.
I love Canada, however, my heart does not need to be here, or in the USA. Is Costa Rica where I feel most content? In this moment, the answer is yes. It has not always been this way, and it may not always be this way, but I thank God that my passion right now is to be where HE wants me to be. I am at home where God has put me.
Tonight, as I listened to worship music in Spanish, it immediately turned my heart to Costa Rica and to our ministry there. Spanish worship music penetrates a part of my spirit that English music does not! It reminds me that God is present in all languages and cultures.
In Psalm 19 the verses read:
1 "The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world."
I thank God for the almost 8 years that we have lived and ministered in Costa Rica. I thank Him for counting us worthy to proclaim His risen life to those around us. No hay nadie como tú, sólo Cristo!
June 24, 2011
A Wartime Lifestyle
In the early 1900’s, the luxury ocean liner The Queen Mary was used to entertain the wealthy on the water, where they could eat on fine china and enjoy the best things in life. During WWII, the liner was re-purposed as a navy ship, and its 3,000 beds gave way for 15,000 bunks, and its china for metal cafeteria trays for soldiers.
In the United States during the Second World War, many people gave up material things to provide for the war. “The government imposed widespread austerities on its citizens in the form of commodity rationing, including food, gasoline and other commodities essential to the war. Travel restrictions were imposed, wages and work hours were fixed, and new automobile manufacturing was stopped as plants which previously made cars turned out tanks, Jeeps and other military vehicles.” http://www.investopedia.com/articles/economics/11/goverment-austerity-measures.asp?partner=sfgate#ixzz1QD7VAxFR
Americans knew they were at war, and many were willing to make these sacrifices in order to win the war.
Ralph Winter, the founder of the US Center for World Mission and Perspectives, wrote that we Christians should consider adopting a wartime lifestyle because we are also at war. We are fighting for the souls of humanity!
How would this look?
In essence, a wartime lifestyle means to use only what we truly need so that we can free resources for the battle. Some practical ideas are:
- Live with a cap on your income, no matter how many raises you get in the future. Use the extra for missions, especially for unreached people groups.
- Do not buy what you do not need. Do not live to keep up with your community and your neighbors.
- View your job as a chance to earn money to invest in God’s kingdom, not just as a way to finance your own dreams and purchases.
- Steward your time so that you can invest in ministry. Rather than work overtime, but if you are able, donate time to your church or to a mission group – or just use that time to pray for the world.
- Scale down your possessions so you spend less time, energy and money on them. For example, live in a smaller home that costs less and needs less maintenance. Exchange a luxury car for a simpler one that doesn’t use as much gas or involve a monthly payment. (That is better for the environment – but more on that at another time!) See www.junkycarclub.com
- If you are ready to retire, and are in good health, pray about starting a new career in missions, disaster relief, skills training for the poor, etc.
- Start small: empty your loose change into a jar and collect that for missions. It could be over $100 a year.
- Pray and invest in learning, ministering and equipping others to fight this battle.
It is SO HARD to live simply when all around us we are tempted to consume, enjoy, and live for only ourselves. As one author writes, “Obedience to the Great Commission has more consistently been poisoned by affluence than by anything else.” http://www.puritanboard.com/f36/commitment-wartime-lifestyle-47194/
I need to remember that I have been given resources for one purpose – to magnify God.
Is Christ is my treasure? Do I want the world to know Him too? Do I value Him more than my possessions?
If so, then as John Piper says, I can live free from the need to live the American (or Canadian, etc.) dream.
I am free to live for the cause of Love on the Calvary road, full of joy, and for His glory.
In the United States during the Second World War, many people gave up material things to provide for the war. “The government imposed widespread austerities on its citizens in the form of commodity rationing, including food, gasoline and other commodities essential to the war. Travel restrictions were imposed, wages and work hours were fixed, and new automobile manufacturing was stopped as plants which previously made cars turned out tanks, Jeeps and other military vehicles.” http://www.investopedia.com/articles/economics/11/goverment-austerity-measures.asp?partner=sfgate#ixzz1QD7VAxFR
Americans knew they were at war, and many were willing to make these sacrifices in order to win the war.
Ralph Winter, the founder of the US Center for World Mission and Perspectives, wrote that we Christians should consider adopting a wartime lifestyle because we are also at war. We are fighting for the souls of humanity!
How would this look?
In essence, a wartime lifestyle means to use only what we truly need so that we can free resources for the battle. Some practical ideas are:
- Live with a cap on your income, no matter how many raises you get in the future. Use the extra for missions, especially for unreached people groups.
- Do not buy what you do not need. Do not live to keep up with your community and your neighbors.
- View your job as a chance to earn money to invest in God’s kingdom, not just as a way to finance your own dreams and purchases.
- Steward your time so that you can invest in ministry. Rather than work overtime, but if you are able, donate time to your church or to a mission group – or just use that time to pray for the world.
- Scale down your possessions so you spend less time, energy and money on them. For example, live in a smaller home that costs less and needs less maintenance. Exchange a luxury car for a simpler one that doesn’t use as much gas or involve a monthly payment. (That is better for the environment – but more on that at another time!) See www.junkycarclub.com
- If you are ready to retire, and are in good health, pray about starting a new career in missions, disaster relief, skills training for the poor, etc.
- Start small: empty your loose change into a jar and collect that for missions. It could be over $100 a year.
- Pray and invest in learning, ministering and equipping others to fight this battle.
It is SO HARD to live simply when all around us we are tempted to consume, enjoy, and live for only ourselves. As one author writes, “Obedience to the Great Commission has more consistently been poisoned by affluence than by anything else.” http://www.puritanboard.com/f36/commitment-wartime-lifestyle-47194/
I need to remember that I have been given resources for one purpose – to magnify God.
Is Christ is my treasure? Do I want the world to know Him too? Do I value Him more than my possessions?
If so, then as John Piper says, I can live free from the need to live the American (or Canadian, etc.) dream.
I am free to live for the cause of Love on the Calvary road, full of joy, and for His glory.
May 6, 2011
Children in Ministry
Shortly after we arrived in Costa Rica in 2003 to work at Portantorchas, a visiting teacher from another school also came. He had dinner with us one night and we asked him for advice on how to manage our home and family in the midst of ministry.
The advice that he gave us has been invaluable and we have seen the benefits of his godly wisdom over the years. First of all, he said that the wife must embrace her role in ministry, not just see ministry as her husband's job. Otherwise, it pulls the husband apart between two exclusive roles. Second, he said to involve our children in ministry. We allowed our children to interact frequently with students, and it has been to their benefit (mutual, I think).
Children often minister without knowing it, and they have no hang-ups about rejection, like I often do.
In fact, there are times when I want to invite a student over, but I fear they will say "no". My children don't fear that. I have given them the freedom to invite students over. They do, frequently. And, it's been great! They have a gift of hospitality, and often invitation from them is well received by students. We've baked cookies, watched movies, had Indian food, and dance parties, all because our girls are involved in ministry.
I still remember an incident during the first year that we were here. We were going to eat lunch with the students. My oldest, who was just 2, noticed a girl standing awkwardly off to one side. She asked, "Who is that?" I told her the student's name, and my daughter said, "I want to sit by her." What resulted that semester was a little 2-year-old seeking out this gentle and quirky student. I saw how she touched that student's life, just by her interest in her.
I am thankful that my girls have a heart for ministry, even without knowing it. Their love and interest in students in genuine, and God knows that we all need that, to be loved for who we are. I thank God that He saw a place for us here in ministry - for Tom and I - and for our three little girls.
The advice that he gave us has been invaluable and we have seen the benefits of his godly wisdom over the years. First of all, he said that the wife must embrace her role in ministry, not just see ministry as her husband's job. Otherwise, it pulls the husband apart between two exclusive roles. Second, he said to involve our children in ministry. We allowed our children to interact frequently with students, and it has been to their benefit (mutual, I think).
Children often minister without knowing it, and they have no hang-ups about rejection, like I often do.
In fact, there are times when I want to invite a student over, but I fear they will say "no". My children don't fear that. I have given them the freedom to invite students over. They do, frequently. And, it's been great! They have a gift of hospitality, and often invitation from them is well received by students. We've baked cookies, watched movies, had Indian food, and dance parties, all because our girls are involved in ministry.
I still remember an incident during the first year that we were here. We were going to eat lunch with the students. My oldest, who was just 2, noticed a girl standing awkwardly off to one side. She asked, "Who is that?" I told her the student's name, and my daughter said, "I want to sit by her." What resulted that semester was a little 2-year-old seeking out this gentle and quirky student. I saw how she touched that student's life, just by her interest in her.
I am thankful that my girls have a heart for ministry, even without knowing it. Their love and interest in students in genuine, and God knows that we all need that, to be loved for who we are. I thank God that He saw a place for us here in ministry - for Tom and I - and for our three little girls.
April 20, 2011
Hosanna!
This Easter week I have been reflecting on the word Hosanna. It is a Hebrew word that means "Save!" and is also an expression of praise.
On the day we call Palm Sunday, Jesus entered Jerusalem on a colt, the foal of a donkey. The Jews welcomed him with palms and cloaks thrown down on the road that he traveled, and they shouted,
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hosanna in the highest!" (Matt. 21:10)
The Jews were looking for the Messiah, for someone who could free them and be their king. They were calling to Jesus, but they did not realize that He WAS their Messiah, to save them from their sins instead of from Roman rule.
This week as I study the Easter message, I think of the word Hosanna in relation to the missions mandate that remains. My prayer is "Hosanna! God may you SAVE the nations!" Until every tribe and tongue and nation is represented before God's throne, there is still need to pray for their salvation.
Christ's work was completed at the Resurrection. He made a way for us to be saved. He came to save the nations. Continue to pray that His name would reach the ends of the earth, and that salvation will come to all nations.
On the day we call Palm Sunday, Jesus entered Jerusalem on a colt, the foal of a donkey. The Jews welcomed him with palms and cloaks thrown down on the road that he traveled, and they shouted,
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hosanna in the highest!" (Matt. 21:10)
The Jews were looking for the Messiah, for someone who could free them and be their king. They were calling to Jesus, but they did not realize that He WAS their Messiah, to save them from their sins instead of from Roman rule.
This week as I study the Easter message, I think of the word Hosanna in relation to the missions mandate that remains. My prayer is "Hosanna! God may you SAVE the nations!" Until every tribe and tongue and nation is represented before God's throne, there is still need to pray for their salvation.
Christ's work was completed at the Resurrection. He made a way for us to be saved. He came to save the nations. Continue to pray that His name would reach the ends of the earth, and that salvation will come to all nations.
March 7, 2011
A small pebble in a pond...
This past week at our Perspectives class, we had the honor of hosting and hearing from Dave Flynn, who is the National Director of Perspectives in the US. He presented an incredible monologue, in full costume, of William Carey. (Look him up - he was an incredible missionary to India!)
God moved in many ways, over time, in order to bring Dave Flynn here and to bring the Perspectives Costa Rica dream to fruition. I journey back a few years...
In 2009, we had a student named Jessi. She followed the Lord in obedience and came to Costa Rica to spend a year at Portantorchas. In 2010, I met a young Costa Rican woman named Montserrat. We realized we had the same vision, to bring Perspectives to Costa Rica. When we talked about it, we realized that I had some connections that would help get the process started. I attend the church that we approached to host the class (thanks, IBC!) and I knew Dave Flynn. Dave Flynn is Jessi's Dad. When we started to plan the course, I felt confident to contact Dave and get his support for Perspectives in Costa Rica - all because I knew his daughter.
Now when Jessi came to Costa Rica, she didn't realize what her step of faith would do to the world! Perspectives is now here, and it is challenging hearts of Costa Rican church leaders to do their part in fulfilling God's mission to this world! Who knows how far and wide and long this missions vision will spread in Latin America, and around the world! God IS touching hearts through the course; I see it every week.
So if an 18-year-old girl can take part in God's work without even knowing it, so can the rest of us. It takes a small step of obedience, in faith, to be a small pebble thrown into a pond. God will take charge of the ripples that spread, around the world, into the future, in ways that we could never imagine!
God moved in many ways, over time, in order to bring Dave Flynn here and to bring the Perspectives Costa Rica dream to fruition. I journey back a few years...
In 2009, we had a student named Jessi. She followed the Lord in obedience and came to Costa Rica to spend a year at Portantorchas. In 2010, I met a young Costa Rican woman named Montserrat. We realized we had the same vision, to bring Perspectives to Costa Rica. When we talked about it, we realized that I had some connections that would help get the process started. I attend the church that we approached to host the class (thanks, IBC!) and I knew Dave Flynn. Dave Flynn is Jessi's Dad. When we started to plan the course, I felt confident to contact Dave and get his support for Perspectives in Costa Rica - all because I knew his daughter.
Now when Jessi came to Costa Rica, she didn't realize what her step of faith would do to the world! Perspectives is now here, and it is challenging hearts of Costa Rican church leaders to do their part in fulfilling God's mission to this world! Who knows how far and wide and long this missions vision will spread in Latin America, and around the world! God IS touching hearts through the course; I see it every week.
So if an 18-year-old girl can take part in God's work without even knowing it, so can the rest of us. It takes a small step of obedience, in faith, to be a small pebble thrown into a pond. God will take charge of the ripples that spread, around the world, into the future, in ways that we could never imagine!
Expat.
I love being an expat, an expatriate, a person living outside her own country. In fact, I think that I will be an expat wherever I live. I was born in India, raised in Africa and England, I am a Canadian citizen, I am married to an American and I live in Costa Rica. Where is home for me? I really have no idea! (Although, I do hold a great allegiance to Canada.)
Over the past few weeks we have had a lot of parties and events with our friends. Among the people present at the birthday party, curry party, and Chinese New Year party, etc., were:
• Some dear Costa Rican friends!
• A husband raised as an MK in Sri Lanka, his wife as an MK in Jordan, who have lived in the Middle East and Europe;
• A Malaysian family of Chinese descent;
• An American born in Kenya;
• A family that has lived overseas (outside their native USA) for 17 years;
• A Swedish family working for a multinational;
• A South Korean diplomat who is about to start a new post in another country;
• A US military family that is also about to move to another new post;
• And a single American girl getting ready to be a missionary in Southeast Asia.
The reason I am so awed about this is that most of us don’t belong in Costa Rica. We are from all over, and everyone brings amazing stories and experiences to our gatherings. We don’t belong here, but we belong together. Our common thread is our cross-cultural experience, representing SO many corners of the globe. It is a comforting, comfortable group of friends. We can be ourselves, with all of our cultural quirks, and we are accepted by each other.
It was an amazing glimpse of what heaven will be, of course JUST a glimpse. We are many cultures, united by our love for Jesus. It also makes me remember Philippians 3:20, “But our citizenship is in heaven.”
Over the past few weeks we have had a lot of parties and events with our friends. Among the people present at the birthday party, curry party, and Chinese New Year party, etc., were:
• Some dear Costa Rican friends!
• A husband raised as an MK in Sri Lanka, his wife as an MK in Jordan, who have lived in the Middle East and Europe;
• A Malaysian family of Chinese descent;
• An American born in Kenya;
• A family that has lived overseas (outside their native USA) for 17 years;
• A Swedish family working for a multinational;
• A South Korean diplomat who is about to start a new post in another country;
• A US military family that is also about to move to another new post;
• And a single American girl getting ready to be a missionary in Southeast Asia.
The reason I am so awed about this is that most of us don’t belong in Costa Rica. We are from all over, and everyone brings amazing stories and experiences to our gatherings. We don’t belong here, but we belong together. Our common thread is our cross-cultural experience, representing SO many corners of the globe. It is a comforting, comfortable group of friends. We can be ourselves, with all of our cultural quirks, and we are accepted by each other.
It was an amazing glimpse of what heaven will be, of course JUST a glimpse. We are many cultures, united by our love for Jesus. It also makes me remember Philippians 3:20, “But our citizenship is in heaven.”
January 26, 2011
Perspectives
It is a joy for me to be a part of the Coordinating Team that is bringing the Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course to Costa Rica for the first time ever!
Perspectives is a world-renowned course originating from the US Center for World Mission in Pasadena, California. According to their website, “Perspectives is not so much a course, as it is a "movement" involving tens of thousands of God's people throughout the world finding their niche in God's overall purpose to bless the nations.” (www.perspectives.org )
The 16-week series is being offered for pastors and leaders around the country. Our vision is to educate, motivate, and train Costa Ricans to bring God’s glory around the world. We want these “ticos” to know that they have a role to play in missions, that their work is integral to the fulfillment of Revelation 7:9, “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”
From a cultural perspective, latinos have many in-roads to various mission fields. Their generally fair skin and dark eyes and hair allow them to blend with numerous cultures in the 10/40 window. Their family structure, with strong extended families and care of elders and children, is seen in many non-Western societies. Finally, because many latin countries are still considered to be developing nations, many of their citizens have lived with less of the comforts and conveniences we take for granted in North America. It is one element that makes the transition to a less-developed nation a little easier for latino missionaries.
The tide for using so-called “southern” or “non-Western” missionaries is growing. We are excited to be part of the movement! Please say a prayer that God will use Perspectives to bring a global vision to Costa Rica. Thank you.
Perspectives is a world-renowned course originating from the US Center for World Mission in Pasadena, California. According to their website, “Perspectives is not so much a course, as it is a "movement" involving tens of thousands of God's people throughout the world finding their niche in God's overall purpose to bless the nations.” (www.perspectives.org )
The 16-week series is being offered for pastors and leaders around the country. Our vision is to educate, motivate, and train Costa Ricans to bring God’s glory around the world. We want these “ticos” to know that they have a role to play in missions, that their work is integral to the fulfillment of Revelation 7:9, “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”
From a cultural perspective, latinos have many in-roads to various mission fields. Their generally fair skin and dark eyes and hair allow them to blend with numerous cultures in the 10/40 window. Their family structure, with strong extended families and care of elders and children, is seen in many non-Western societies. Finally, because many latin countries are still considered to be developing nations, many of their citizens have lived with less of the comforts and conveniences we take for granted in North America. It is one element that makes the transition to a less-developed nation a little easier for latino missionaries.
The tide for using so-called “southern” or “non-Western” missionaries is growing. We are excited to be part of the movement! Please say a prayer that God will use Perspectives to bring a global vision to Costa Rica. Thank you.
Whatever!
Well my reflections of 2010 and my aspirations for 2011 have not been very profound. But I keep coming back to this word, “Whatever.” Many people use this word now as a term for resignation, and frustration. But I am thinking of the other sense of the word, one that implies being open-minded.
I can’t think of many resolutions for 2011, but that’s not because I have achieved perfection! I am certainly not who I thought I would be at my age. “I have not arrived!” says a dear friend and mentor of mine. And, (gasp!) I have come up against some doubts about my faith that seem to linger a bit longer than I want.
So, why “whatever”? The verse Ecclesiastes 5:10 says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do this with all your might...” It makes me think there is a reason for every situation I find myself in. God knows that reason, and it’s probably a good one. So, in 2011, I hope to apply myself completely to whatever my world requires of me. It may be motherhood, or teaching, or praying. I should do it with all my might.
One thing I do know; I want to apply myself better to Bible reading (don’t we all?!). I have a hope that if I do, my doubts, and maybe even some of my unresolved character flaws, will find their own new year’s resolution.
So, in 2011, I commit to doing WHATEVER!
I can’t think of many resolutions for 2011, but that’s not because I have achieved perfection! I am certainly not who I thought I would be at my age. “I have not arrived!” says a dear friend and mentor of mine. And, (gasp!) I have come up against some doubts about my faith that seem to linger a bit longer than I want.
So, why “whatever”? The verse Ecclesiastes 5:10 says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do this with all your might...” It makes me think there is a reason for every situation I find myself in. God knows that reason, and it’s probably a good one. So, in 2011, I hope to apply myself completely to whatever my world requires of me. It may be motherhood, or teaching, or praying. I should do it with all my might.
One thing I do know; I want to apply myself better to Bible reading (don’t we all?!). I have a hope that if I do, my doubts, and maybe even some of my unresolved character flaws, will find their own new year’s resolution.
So, in 2011, I commit to doing WHATEVER!
December 1, 2010
Oh, I wish I were...
My youngest daughter has a favorite song that starts like this:
Oh, I wish I were a little bar of soap!
Oh, I wish I were a little bar of soap!
For I'd slippy and I'd slidy over everybody's heiny
Oh I wish I were a little bar of soap!
This silly song came to my mind today as I was thinking: "Oh I wish I were a more fun-loving mother! Oh, I wish I were more extroverted and charismatic! Oh, I wish I were a better housekeeper!"
A conversation also came to my mind. I had coffee with a friend this week and she shared a word of encouragement with me. She said our prayer should be, "God, make me who you created ME to be; help me to be everything you had in mind when you made ME." It was a gentle rebuke and powerful exhortation.
God created me with my mix of energy, introversion or extroversion, etc. Those were part of His design for me. And the more I become who He created ME to be, I hope these things will find their good purpose in my daily life, and they will FIT who and I am and what I do.
To finish on a lighter note, here is another verse of the song. Enjoy!
Oh, I wish I were a little bottle of pop!
Oh, I wish I were a little bottle of pop!
For I'd go down with a slurp, and I'd come up with a BURP!
Oh, I wish I were a little bottle of pop!
Oh, I wish I were a little bar of soap!
Oh, I wish I were a little bar of soap!
For I'd slippy and I'd slidy over everybody's heiny
Oh I wish I were a little bar of soap!
This silly song came to my mind today as I was thinking: "Oh I wish I were a more fun-loving mother! Oh, I wish I were more extroverted and charismatic! Oh, I wish I were a better housekeeper!"
A conversation also came to my mind. I had coffee with a friend this week and she shared a word of encouragement with me. She said our prayer should be, "God, make me who you created ME to be; help me to be everything you had in mind when you made ME." It was a gentle rebuke and powerful exhortation.
God created me with my mix of energy, introversion or extroversion, etc. Those were part of His design for me. And the more I become who He created ME to be, I hope these things will find their good purpose in my daily life, and they will FIT who and I am and what I do.
To finish on a lighter note, here is another verse of the song. Enjoy!
Oh, I wish I were a little bottle of pop!
Oh, I wish I were a little bottle of pop!
For I'd go down with a slurp, and I'd come up with a BURP!
Oh, I wish I were a little bottle of pop!
November 26, 2010
I LOVE my jobs.
During the past few months, I have reached a new level of gratitude and joyfulness for my 7 years in Costa Rica.
In my job as a staff wife, I love the ministry we are in, and I am so happy to be a part of it. I don't mind having students knock on my door and seek me out. I enjoy hearing their fun and laughter at night. I love that they challenge me in my walk with Christ. (One of them just finished reading the whole Bible in 4 months!) I am thrilled to see them struggle through something and come out victorious at the end!
In my job as a mother, I love that my family is growing up in this God-honoring environment, with so many godly friends around us. I am happy that my girls are in a good school and also have great friends at church. I am happy to have my husband only a 5-second commute away! I am happy to live on a beautiful property even though it is overpopulated by hissing ducks.
I wouldn't trade my jobs for any other. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. I dearly miss my family and my in-laws. But, I KNOW that God has me where He wants me to be. Most of all, I am SO grateful that I have learned to see the blessings in the everyday of God's will for me.
In my job as a staff wife, I love the ministry we are in, and I am so happy to be a part of it. I don't mind having students knock on my door and seek me out. I enjoy hearing their fun and laughter at night. I love that they challenge me in my walk with Christ. (One of them just finished reading the whole Bible in 4 months!) I am thrilled to see them struggle through something and come out victorious at the end!
In my job as a mother, I love that my family is growing up in this God-honoring environment, with so many godly friends around us. I am happy that my girls are in a good school and also have great friends at church. I am happy to have my husband only a 5-second commute away! I am happy to live on a beautiful property even though it is overpopulated by hissing ducks.
I wouldn't trade my jobs for any other. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. I dearly miss my family and my in-laws. But, I KNOW that God has me where He wants me to be. Most of all, I am SO grateful that I have learned to see the blessings in the everyday of God's will for me.
BUT....tan triste sola!
Today is the last day of the semester. What happens when our family of students leaves, these friends who we have shared so much with for 4 months? After so much fullness of company and activities, I already feel "tan triste sola", so sad and alone! I really DO love being here with everyone!
It was a good semester! We saw a lot of spiritual growth after some personal battles, and it's been amazing to walk along beside these students as they learn to put God first, and to hand over the reins to their lives.
We are going into 2 month of "holidays". Our girls finish school today, and our Portantorchas students started leaving today. Both schools start again in February. We have no plans to see family, so we have about 60 days to fill up. With what? We have ideas of swimming lessons, day trips, and maybe a trip with church friends. Also, we'll have some time to refresh, time to enjoy our little family of 5.
I must admit, though, that I am a bit tearful. I always feel lonely when students leave. God has brought some dear friends into our lives over time, but they either live on the other side of town, or have left the country. It makes me thankful for the permanent friends I have - namely, my husband, and my children. I have 2 months to pour my energies into them.
And I know the most important thing...the Holy Spirit impressed it upon me today when tears were starting to well up in my eyes, "This is MY chance to be your friend." I know God as my heavenly father, and I am comforted by His love for me. I know Jesus as my Savior, and I am so grateful for my hope that is secure for eternity.
But, I don't really seek God's friendship and companionship, especially when there are others around to fill the gaps. So, I am excited for 2 quiet months to seek God as my friend. And I encourage others who are in a season of "loneliness" to do the same.
It was a good semester! We saw a lot of spiritual growth after some personal battles, and it's been amazing to walk along beside these students as they learn to put God first, and to hand over the reins to their lives.
We are going into 2 month of "holidays". Our girls finish school today, and our Portantorchas students started leaving today. Both schools start again in February. We have no plans to see family, so we have about 60 days to fill up. With what? We have ideas of swimming lessons, day trips, and maybe a trip with church friends. Also, we'll have some time to refresh, time to enjoy our little family of 5.
I must admit, though, that I am a bit tearful. I always feel lonely when students leave. God has brought some dear friends into our lives over time, but they either live on the other side of town, or have left the country. It makes me thankful for the permanent friends I have - namely, my husband, and my children. I have 2 months to pour my energies into them.
And I know the most important thing...the Holy Spirit impressed it upon me today when tears were starting to well up in my eyes, "This is MY chance to be your friend." I know God as my heavenly father, and I am comforted by His love for me. I know Jesus as my Savior, and I am so grateful for my hope that is secure for eternity.
But, I don't really seek God's friendship and companionship, especially when there are others around to fill the gaps. So, I am excited for 2 quiet months to seek God as my friend. And I encourage others who are in a season of "loneliness" to do the same.
October 30, 2010
Oh well...
So, I really tried to finish the New Testament in 30 days, but I failed. I hope to finish this weekend (60 days). My intentions were right, but we have been through 2 of the busiest months of our lives! School, visitors, trips, exams, teaching, visiting friends (!), and so on, and here we are at the end of October.
What did I learn from my challenge?
1. It is not necessary to read through the Bible so quickly, BUT it does give a great overview. Reading any Bible book from start to finish helps it to make more sense.
2. Bible reading IS necessary. I have learned and re-learned so many things in these 2 months. A good, solid time of devotions every day is SO important. How many of us would skip 1, 2, or 3 meals a day? Hardly any of us - we love food too much! We do starve spiritually if we are not reading God's Word and praying regularly, continually.
OK, so I am off to read. Coming up next month I have been given permission from several students to post their testimonies. Get ready to be amazed! Once again I feel so privileged to know these people and to encourage them in their relationship with God. I have a job worth doing, and I love it.
What did I learn from my challenge?
1. It is not necessary to read through the Bible so quickly, BUT it does give a great overview. Reading any Bible book from start to finish helps it to make more sense.
2. Bible reading IS necessary. I have learned and re-learned so many things in these 2 months. A good, solid time of devotions every day is SO important. How many of us would skip 1, 2, or 3 meals a day? Hardly any of us - we love food too much! We do starve spiritually if we are not reading God's Word and praying regularly, continually.
OK, so I am off to read. Coming up next month I have been given permission from several students to post their testimonies. Get ready to be amazed! Once again I feel so privileged to know these people and to encourage them in their relationship with God. I have a job worth doing, and I love it.
September 12, 2010
Update #1 - 30 Days in the NT
(WARNING: long post ahead! But I hope it's a blessing to you!)
I have been diligently reading through the New Testament, although I am 2 days behind! But it has been a really good experience so far. The biggest lesson to me so far is that God STILL SPEAKS to me through His Word. Sometimes I forget that, and I almost dread reading my Bible, thinking I will get nothing out of it. But I want to share 3 things that happened this last week through my Bible reading and my circumstances that reminded me that God is involved in my life.
1. Last Monday I "just happened" to walk in on a night class with our students. I almost never do that (I usually relax in my house at night). The students "happened" to be studying the book of John, and that night they were in Chapter 5. The story was about the man who lay beside the pool of Bethsaida, waiting for a chance to be healed when the waters were stirred. Jesus came by, asked the man if he wanted to get well, and then healed him.
What's so amazing about the story? Well, the man was lying by the pool for about 38 years. I celebrated my birthday on Wednesday. I turned 38. That number is only in the Bible 2 times. I really sensed through the "coincidence" of it all that God was reaching out to me. He knows my age. He can STILL do a new thing in me! He can heal my past, and He can start me on a new course, as He did with the invalid man. Wow!
2. As I was reading in Matthew, I stopped to think a lot about the story of the centurion in Chapter 8. The centurion came to ask Jesus to heal his servant. He knew Jesus didn't have to physically touch or even see the servant in order for him to be healed. He said to Jesus, "But just say the word...". What faith the centurion had! I want to have faith like that, to be able to take Jesus at His word.
Well, at our church we have started a series on listening to the whispers of God. The passage that "happened" to come in the series was this same story of the centurion that I read the day before! When Jesus says the word, I want to believe and obey. God confirmed that desire by allowing me to hear the passage again! Cool!
3. As I read through Mark, I was struck by 5:19, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." Later that night, I had a meeting at my girls' school. We met in a classroom that I have never been in before. During the meeting, as I looked around the room, guess what verse was posted on the wall? Yes. Mark 5:19. I smiled to myself, "God knows I am here. He knew all along that I would come here, and He has confirmed His words to me." Wow, again!
I could go on, but I will save more stories for another time. I have been comforted during my birthday month that God is still alive, that He is interested in my life, and that when I am diligent to listen for His voice, He speaks through His Word and circumstances. He is real to me, and His Word is a comfort to my soul. Thank you, Jesus!
I have been diligently reading through the New Testament, although I am 2 days behind! But it has been a really good experience so far. The biggest lesson to me so far is that God STILL SPEAKS to me through His Word. Sometimes I forget that, and I almost dread reading my Bible, thinking I will get nothing out of it. But I want to share 3 things that happened this last week through my Bible reading and my circumstances that reminded me that God is involved in my life.
1. Last Monday I "just happened" to walk in on a night class with our students. I almost never do that (I usually relax in my house at night). The students "happened" to be studying the book of John, and that night they were in Chapter 5. The story was about the man who lay beside the pool of Bethsaida, waiting for a chance to be healed when the waters were stirred. Jesus came by, asked the man if he wanted to get well, and then healed him.
What's so amazing about the story? Well, the man was lying by the pool for about 38 years. I celebrated my birthday on Wednesday. I turned 38. That number is only in the Bible 2 times. I really sensed through the "coincidence" of it all that God was reaching out to me. He knows my age. He can STILL do a new thing in me! He can heal my past, and He can start me on a new course, as He did with the invalid man. Wow!
2. As I was reading in Matthew, I stopped to think a lot about the story of the centurion in Chapter 8. The centurion came to ask Jesus to heal his servant. He knew Jesus didn't have to physically touch or even see the servant in order for him to be healed. He said to Jesus, "But just say the word...". What faith the centurion had! I want to have faith like that, to be able to take Jesus at His word.
Well, at our church we have started a series on listening to the whispers of God. The passage that "happened" to come in the series was this same story of the centurion that I read the day before! When Jesus says the word, I want to believe and obey. God confirmed that desire by allowing me to hear the passage again! Cool!
3. As I read through Mark, I was struck by 5:19, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." Later that night, I had a meeting at my girls' school. We met in a classroom that I have never been in before. During the meeting, as I looked around the room, guess what verse was posted on the wall? Yes. Mark 5:19. I smiled to myself, "God knows I am here. He knew all along that I would come here, and He has confirmed His words to me." Wow, again!
I could go on, but I will save more stories for another time. I have been comforted during my birthday month that God is still alive, that He is interested in my life, and that when I am diligent to listen for His voice, He speaks through His Word and circumstances. He is real to me, and His Word is a comfort to my soul. Thank you, Jesus!
September 1, 2010
30 days through the New Testament
My challenge this month, if anyone else in interested in joining in, is to read the entire New Testament by September 30. I decided to do it this month because it is my birthday month (and also for my twin sister, my Mom, my daughter, 2 sisters-in-law, and my best friend from high school, etc.!) and I want to make it meaningful. I want to start this next year of my life very well. This is a challenge for me, but it will be a good way to focus my priorities. And besides all of that, I work at a Bible school!
If anyone is interested, Google it!, and print out a plan. Here are some ideas of questions to ask or journal each day:
1. What did I learn about God?
2. What did I learn about my relationship to God and others?
3. What did I learn about God's relationship to His world/His people?
4. One promise of God...
5. One blessing from God...
I will write about how I did at the end of the month. For now, I'm off to read!
If anyone is interested, Google it!, and print out a plan. Here are some ideas of questions to ask or journal each day:
1. What did I learn about God?
2. What did I learn about my relationship to God and others?
3. What did I learn about God's relationship to His world/His people?
4. One promise of God...
5. One blessing from God...
I will write about how I did at the end of the month. For now, I'm off to read!
August 16, 2010
Attempting to Pray
The past couple of months have been a good break for me. We didn’t have any students for June & July. I got a lot of reading done and spent a lot of time with my family. I prayed. And the one thing that was consistently impressed upon my heart was the need for MORE prayer.
We have heard recently of illnesses and job losses. There have been babies born, and weddings to celebrate. So many times, with tidbits of news, the Holy Spirit has “spoken” one word to me – Pray. I honestly don’t do it enough, and I don’t always feel like I pray effectively. But I do know that prayer works. I have seen it work in my life.
I am still learning how prayer works. Sometimes in a hard situation I expect to pray and get up from prayer with everything resolved. For example, I am aching for a friend whose actions seem to be leading her away from God, and I don’t know what to think, or what, if anything, I should say. I am realizing it’s enough for me to pray that God would start working in my heart to give me the right feelings and right actions. Then, I need to have faith that God will bring it to completion.
It’s not always easy to be consistent in prayer. But one thing I have learned is that I need to give God my GOOD times for prayer, when I am alert and when I have something on my heart. I can say a concise prayer of thanks at bedtime, but it’s not the best time to attempt intercessory prayer!
I am growing in the practice of prayer. A dear friend of mine often started her prayers this way, “Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you that you are not weary of our new beginnings, but that you bid us to come, and to come often.” Our God is infinitely merciful and He understands our feeble attempts to pray, and we are always welcome to sit at His feet.
We have heard recently of illnesses and job losses. There have been babies born, and weddings to celebrate. So many times, with tidbits of news, the Holy Spirit has “spoken” one word to me – Pray. I honestly don’t do it enough, and I don’t always feel like I pray effectively. But I do know that prayer works. I have seen it work in my life.
I am still learning how prayer works. Sometimes in a hard situation I expect to pray and get up from prayer with everything resolved. For example, I am aching for a friend whose actions seem to be leading her away from God, and I don’t know what to think, or what, if anything, I should say. I am realizing it’s enough for me to pray that God would start working in my heart to give me the right feelings and right actions. Then, I need to have faith that God will bring it to completion.
It’s not always easy to be consistent in prayer. But one thing I have learned is that I need to give God my GOOD times for prayer, when I am alert and when I have something on my heart. I can say a concise prayer of thanks at bedtime, but it’s not the best time to attempt intercessory prayer!
I am growing in the practice of prayer. A dear friend of mine often started her prayers this way, “Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you that you are not weary of our new beginnings, but that you bid us to come, and to come often.” Our God is infinitely merciful and He understands our feeble attempts to pray, and we are always welcome to sit at His feet.
July 22, 2010
Call us
Try out our new free phone service. If you click below and enter your phone number, Google Voice will call the number, then call us. We can then both receive the call and avoid charges. Currently, this will only work for our friends in the USA and Canada. Try it!
July 17, 2010
Passion
The past few weeks have been filled with passion for soccer! The 2010 World Cup was watched all over the world, including in our home. Many conversations started or centered around the World Cup.
It made me think, ‘So much passion! What am I so passionate about? What should I devote so much time and energy to?’
It reminded me of the story of Count Nicolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf, who was the leader of the Moravian missions movement in the 1700s. He was born a statesman in Germany in 1700, and came to know Christ at the age of four. "Already in my childhood," he said, " I loved the Savior, and had abundant communion with Him.” He reminisced that by 6 years of age, “A thousand times I heard Him speak in my heart, and saw Him with the eye of faith."
Count von Zinzendorf sheltered religious refugees on his large estate, and over the years they developed into a large Christian community. From a revival in 1727, a spiritual awakening and passion was developed for the Great Commission and for prayer. This Moravian community sent out thousands of missionaries even before William Carey, “the Father of Modern Missions”, went to India in 1793. The Moravian church also launched a 100-year prayer chain – an uninterrupted chain that without a doubt provided an impetus for the ripple of missions work that still continues around the world today.
Count von Zinzendorf’s most quoted words are: “I have one passion; it is Jesus, Jesus only.” His life bears evidence to this fact, both in his personal relationship with Christ, and in his outward expression and support of God’s work around the world.
I find his story so inspiring and encouraging. His life had a lasting impact because his heart’s passion was centered on Christ.
Again I ask, “What am I so passionate about?”
I have been thinking and praying about it a lot, and I am excited to see how God answers.
July 1, 2010
June 25, 2010
Father's Day
We celebrated Father's Day last Sunday just like most of you. It made me think a lot about the three earthly fathers that have played an important role in my life.
First, my own Dad. Sadly I did not know him much into my adult years to appreciate him because he passed away over 12 years ago. But, I do remember him to be a very well-respected Dr. and he was much-loved by numerous patients and their families. He often stayed late at work to visit with people at the hospitals and clinics in which he worked. He had a gentle manner and his surgeon hands always carved an impeccable turkey! He was proud of his three girls and always on the lookout for opportunities for us. He wasn't always an easy man, but I have many memories of him in his study, down on his knees. That's what I choose to remember.
Second, my father-in-law, Harold. He and his wife Karen welcomed me into their family with open arms when Tom and I got married. Harold is a gentle and generous man. He is gracious with his words. He has headed a family that is well-loved and respected. I always enjoy our visits and he is a very special person to me. I know that he loves and supports me.
Finally, Tom, the father of my 3 girls. I couldn't ask for a better Daddy for my children. I have not seen another man so involved with his children. He really enjoys them and has built a special relationship with them. He plays games with them, reads with them, teaches them about God, and many other things. Being with them doesn't just mean being in the same room with them (playing video games??!!), but he actually participates in their lives. My girls will have a very high standard to reach when they look for their own husbands.
I thank God for these 3 fathers. I am very blessed!
First, my own Dad. Sadly I did not know him much into my adult years to appreciate him because he passed away over 12 years ago. But, I do remember him to be a very well-respected Dr. and he was much-loved by numerous patients and their families. He often stayed late at work to visit with people at the hospitals and clinics in which he worked. He had a gentle manner and his surgeon hands always carved an impeccable turkey! He was proud of his three girls and always on the lookout for opportunities for us. He wasn't always an easy man, but I have many memories of him in his study, down on his knees. That's what I choose to remember.
Second, my father-in-law, Harold. He and his wife Karen welcomed me into their family with open arms when Tom and I got married. Harold is a gentle and generous man. He is gracious with his words. He has headed a family that is well-loved and respected. I always enjoy our visits and he is a very special person to me. I know that he loves and supports me.
Finally, Tom, the father of my 3 girls. I couldn't ask for a better Daddy for my children. I have not seen another man so involved with his children. He really enjoys them and has built a special relationship with them. He plays games with them, reads with them, teaches them about God, and many other things. Being with them doesn't just mean being in the same room with them (playing video games??!!), but he actually participates in their lives. My girls will have a very high standard to reach when they look for their own husbands.
I thank God for these 3 fathers. I am very blessed!
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