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!
March 7, 2011
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!
May 15, 2010
Jesus, what a friend for sinners!
We are coming to the end of the Spring semester. It has been a good one and we will be sad to see them go! We have a fun-loving and friendly group of students. Some of the highlights of this semester have been:
1. A unified student body. God is glorified in their fellowship. They all get along pretty well, which is a fabulous!
2. A successful mission trip. The students worked with a church community a few hours away. They painted the church and had the privilege to build a home for a disabled man and his family. Everyone came home with so much excitement about what God had done and the impact HE had on the community.
3. Music! I am going to miss our musical students. There have been a number of them and we have enjoyed great worship times as well as many evenings with hymns and songs. I love to open our door and hear the piano and singing (and an amazing violin player!). Where else can I enjoy live music right inside my own home?!
This morning I heard the title song and was so blessed by the words. Isn't it amazing that HE chooses to be a sinner's friend? Wow!
Jesus! what a Friend for sinners!
Jesus! Lover of my soul;
Friends may fail me, foes assail me,
He, my Savior, makes me whole.
Refrain
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Hallelujah! what a Friend!
Saving, helping, keeping, loving,
He is with me to the end.
Jesus! what a Strength in weakness!
Let me hide myself in Him.
Tempted, tried, and sometimes failing,
He, my Strength, my victory wins.
Jesus! what a Help in sorrow!
While the billows over me roll,
Even when my heart is breaking,
He, my Comfort, helps my soul.
Jesus! what a Guide and Keeper!
While the tempest still is high,
Storms about me, night overtakes me,
He, my Pilot, hears my cry.
Jesus! I do now receive Him,
More than all in Him I find.
He hath granted me forgiveness,
I AM HIS, and HE IS MINE.
1. A unified student body. God is glorified in their fellowship. They all get along pretty well, which is a fabulous!
2. A successful mission trip. The students worked with a church community a few hours away. They painted the church and had the privilege to build a home for a disabled man and his family. Everyone came home with so much excitement about what God had done and the impact HE had on the community.
3. Music! I am going to miss our musical students. There have been a number of them and we have enjoyed great worship times as well as many evenings with hymns and songs. I love to open our door and hear the piano and singing (and an amazing violin player!). Where else can I enjoy live music right inside my own home?!
This morning I heard the title song and was so blessed by the words. Isn't it amazing that HE chooses to be a sinner's friend? Wow!
Jesus! what a Friend for sinners!
Jesus! Lover of my soul;
Friends may fail me, foes assail me,
He, my Savior, makes me whole.
Refrain
Hallelujah! what a Savior!
Hallelujah! what a Friend!
Saving, helping, keeping, loving,
He is with me to the end.
Jesus! what a Strength in weakness!
Let me hide myself in Him.
Tempted, tried, and sometimes failing,
He, my Strength, my victory wins.
Jesus! what a Help in sorrow!
While the billows over me roll,
Even when my heart is breaking,
He, my Comfort, helps my soul.
Jesus! what a Guide and Keeper!
While the tempest still is high,
Storms about me, night overtakes me,
He, my Pilot, hears my cry.
Jesus! I do now receive Him,
More than all in Him I find.
He hath granted me forgiveness,
I AM HIS, and HE IS MINE.
School Change
We have been praying and pursuing a change in school for the girls for some time now. Finally a door has been opened (thanks to our friends) to attend a school that is closer to home and a bit more affordable. It also has a stronger phonics-based curriculum, among other benefits.
Our girls are having a bit of a hard time adjusting to the idea. They have good friends at their old school and are well-known and loved. They will be switching in the middle of the school year.
I am asking for prayers for them as they start in their new school on Monday, May 24. I pray it will be a smooth transition and that they would quickly find a community of friends and feel at home.
Thank you.
Our girls are having a bit of a hard time adjusting to the idea. They have good friends at their old school and are well-known and loved. They will be switching in the middle of the school year.
I am asking for prayers for them as they start in their new school on Monday, May 24. I pray it will be a smooth transition and that they would quickly find a community of friends and feel at home.
Thank you.
May 7, 2010
Read our blog
We would like to send out automatic notices when we update our blog.
Until that time, please check back even if we don't remind you to! Most of you get our FaceBook messages, but in case you don't, just come and visit anyway!
Until that time, please check back even if we don't remind you to! Most of you get our FaceBook messages, but in case you don't, just come and visit anyway!
ConTENT.
It’s been a long time! Sorry! Life has been a whirlwind lately.
I was thinking today, “Why did God bring ME to Costa Rica?” And I realize that since my life belongs to Him, and my goal is to be more like Him, my sojourn here is so that He can do His work in me, in a way that could not be done in any other place. By His sovereign wisdom, the mix of conditions that I find myself in are here to refine me and to GLORIFY Him.
Maybe, if I had lived somewhere else, my human nature would have led me to do and to be a very different person. I pray that in my time here, I can lay aside more of my carnal, sinful nature and habits. He began a good work in me! (Good? Sometimes I hardly think so! But He says “good”!) Well, and He will be faithful to complete it. That is good.
I think of the things that God has been weaning me from in this 6 ½ years. Being away from family, with limited finances, living in a different language and culture, and submerged in fulltime, full day (& sometimes night!) ministry, has been good! It has not always been easy, but it has been good. I see God’s grace – blessing- in my life. I think this ministry has made more extroverted, more comfortable meeting new people, and more content. I am away from the pressures of the western world to conform myself, my family, or my children to an idea. I am an expat here, and it gives me a wide berth to be who I am.
I have been praying a LOT this year about contentment, and I feel that God is answering that prayer. I have a good life, with lots of time and opportunity to seek Him and to SEE Him (including in our students! There are signs of a good generation coming.) God knows what He is doing with my life, and that is enough to satisfy my heart.
I was thinking today, “Why did God bring ME to Costa Rica?” And I realize that since my life belongs to Him, and my goal is to be more like Him, my sojourn here is so that He can do His work in me, in a way that could not be done in any other place. By His sovereign wisdom, the mix of conditions that I find myself in are here to refine me and to GLORIFY Him.
Maybe, if I had lived somewhere else, my human nature would have led me to do and to be a very different person. I pray that in my time here, I can lay aside more of my carnal, sinful nature and habits. He began a good work in me! (Good? Sometimes I hardly think so! But He says “good”!) Well, and He will be faithful to complete it. That is good.
I think of the things that God has been weaning me from in this 6 ½ years. Being away from family, with limited finances, living in a different language and culture, and submerged in fulltime, full day (& sometimes night!) ministry, has been good! It has not always been easy, but it has been good. I see God’s grace – blessing- in my life. I think this ministry has made more extroverted, more comfortable meeting new people, and more content. I am away from the pressures of the western world to conform myself, my family, or my children to an idea. I am an expat here, and it gives me a wide berth to be who I am.
I have been praying a LOT this year about contentment, and I feel that God is answering that prayer. I have a good life, with lots of time and opportunity to seek Him and to SEE Him (including in our students! There are signs of a good generation coming.) God knows what He is doing with my life, and that is enough to satisfy my heart.
March 5, 2010
Wise and not-so-wise
I was talking with students the other day about how to seek guidance in our lives. This is something everyone wants. We want to know if we are on the right path, or we want to know how to decide which path to take.
One Bible story that has stuck with me is from 1 Kings Chapters 3-12, and the examples of Solomon and his son Rehoboam. God asked Solomon, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” (3:5) Humbly, Solomon asked for wisdom. This pleased God (v 10), and God “gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight” (4:29).
However, King Solomon’s son was not as wise! One would think that he would have learned a thing or two from his wise father. Solomon made good decisions, and most likely he picked wise advisors. After his death, the Israelites came to his son Rehoboam and asked him to lighten their work load. Rehoboam asked them to give him three days to make a decision (that was probably good, versus a rushed answer). His father’s elders told him to be a servant to the Israelites and to treat them kindly. But in 1 Kings 12, Rehoboam rejected this advice. Instead, he took the advice of his peers and servants (who probably wanted to please him and keep their jobs) who told him to be even harsher. The Israelites entered into rebellion as a result, the kingdom was split in two, and “so Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.” (12:19)
I know that I have been in Rehoboam’s shoes before. I like to listen to people who tell me what I want to hear. I like advice that agrees with what I have already decided. I don’t want someone to tell me that I should reconsider my actions!
But, that’s a dangerous place to be. It has meant that I made decisions sometimes based on what I think is truth, what suits me. My friends will often agree with me because I can convince them of my own perspective. I see the need to keep wise and respected people in my life who can gently tell me the truth that I need to hear. This often includes parents, mature believers, mentors, and spiritual leaders. When I have listened to godly wisdom in the past, it has saved me heartache, I’m sure! It’s a balanced life, and it allows room for sound guidance to prevail, not just opinions.
One Bible story that has stuck with me is from 1 Kings Chapters 3-12, and the examples of Solomon and his son Rehoboam. God asked Solomon, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” (3:5) Humbly, Solomon asked for wisdom. This pleased God (v 10), and God “gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight” (4:29).
However, King Solomon’s son was not as wise! One would think that he would have learned a thing or two from his wise father. Solomon made good decisions, and most likely he picked wise advisors. After his death, the Israelites came to his son Rehoboam and asked him to lighten their work load. Rehoboam asked them to give him three days to make a decision (that was probably good, versus a rushed answer). His father’s elders told him to be a servant to the Israelites and to treat them kindly. But in 1 Kings 12, Rehoboam rejected this advice. Instead, he took the advice of his peers and servants (who probably wanted to please him and keep their jobs) who told him to be even harsher. The Israelites entered into rebellion as a result, the kingdom was split in two, and “so Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.” (12:19)
I know that I have been in Rehoboam’s shoes before. I like to listen to people who tell me what I want to hear. I like advice that agrees with what I have already decided. I don’t want someone to tell me that I should reconsider my actions!
But, that’s a dangerous place to be. It has meant that I made decisions sometimes based on what I think is truth, what suits me. My friends will often agree with me because I can convince them of my own perspective. I see the need to keep wise and respected people in my life who can gently tell me the truth that I need to hear. This often includes parents, mature believers, mentors, and spiritual leaders. When I have listened to godly wisdom in the past, it has saved me heartache, I’m sure! It’s a balanced life, and it allows room for sound guidance to prevail, not just opinions.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)