At a Crossroad Today

Life is divided into three terms - that which was, which is, and which will be. Let us learn from the past to profit by the present, and from the present to live better in the future.

- William Wordsworth

As I sit here today, I am thinking of those people in my life that are dealing with issues right this very moment. These issues include (but not limited to) illness, emotional stress, disaster, pure lack of knowledge, finances, and mere uncertainty. Circumstances well within or out of their control have placed them at a crossroad today. As they stand at that crossroad, a choice is to be made. "How do I let the issue define me?" The answer they give will determine their future. Either they can make the choice to let it drag them down, and use it to limit their potential OR they can learn from it, and come out the other side stronger and wiser as a result.

Over the years, I have chosen both roads. There have been times when I let a single event drag me down and threaten to destroy me. I gave it power over me. It robbed me of my joy. I allowed myself to believe and live a lie. It was the easier route to take. I use my circumstances as an excuse not to try harder. Blaming it on someone  or something else relieved me of having to make a choice. Saying "I didn't know" was such an easy way out. Throwing a pity party and letting Satan tell me I was no good, that I had brought things on myself, that I didn't deserve to be happy took no effort at all. There is a line from "Pretty Woman' with Julia Roberts and Richard Gere.... "The bad stuff is easier to believe." When we are told we mean nothing, we're lazy or ugly, or we brought something on ourselves, we believe it so much faster than taking a compliment with a smile and a "thank-you."

The flipside of that are the times I have decided to accept the circumstances, hold my head high, and learn from it. We all have trying times, whether we messed up or something totally out of our control happens, such as a tornado hitting your house. Choosing to face it, and ask God to guide us and hold us through it makes all the difference in the world. When we turn it over to Him, miracles happen. Joy is found. Does it mean we won't ever experience trouble or have hard times? No. It means we can get through it, and not all alone. Christ is here to meet us wherever we are. We are loved and valuable.

As I write this, I am praying for those dealing with such issues. You do not have to experience anything alone. Jesus will meet you there.

Jesus Will Meet You There by Steven Curtis Chapman 

When you think you've hit the bottom and the bottom gives way and you fall into a darkness

no words can explain and you don't know how you make it out alive

Jesus will meet you there.
When the doctor says, "I'm sorry,we don't know what else to do."

and you're looking at your family wondering how they'll make it through...

Whatever road this life takes you down, Jesus will meet you there.
He knows the way to wherever you are

He knows the way to the depths of your heart

He knows the way 'cause he's already been where you're going

Jesus will meet you there.
When the jury says, "Guilty,"and the prison doors close

When the one you love says nothing, just packs up and goes

When the sunlight comes and your world's still dark,

Jesus will meet you there.
When you've failed again and all your second chances have been used

And the heavy weight of guilt and shame is crushing down on you...

And all you have is one last cry for help

Jesus will meet you there.
He knows the way to wherever you are

He knows the way to the depths of your heart

He knows the way 'cause he's already been where you're going
When you realize the dreams you've hadf or your child won't come true

when the phone rings in the middle of the night with tragic news...

Whatever valley you must walk through,

Jesus will meet you there.
He will meet you there.
Jesus will meet you there

What if I'm Wrong?

“I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn't, than live my life as if there isn't and die to find out there is.”
― Albert Camus

      In our community, we have an outspoken atheist who frequently writes letters to the editor of our local paper. In his letters, he challenges Christians to prove their faith or religion is real. He also tries very hard to use scientific evidence to disprove our faith. My question is, and probably always will be, why does he try so hard to convince us we are wrong? Will he not be satisfied until we say he is right? What does he have to gain?
      As I think about my faith, I have so many unanswered questions. Yes, I would love to have all the knowledge of God and be able to satisfactorily shoot down any argument against His Existence. However, I am lacking in that area. I can only rely on what I do know and believe.
      What if I am wrong and they are right? What do I lose? *crickets chirping* I have nothing to lose in believing Christ is the Savior of the world. Nothing of value, that is. So I may look dorky or gullible to those who don't believe. I may not have the full respect of those who choose not to follow Christ. What else do I lose on earth in believing? Nothing. What do I lose in eternity? Nothing. If they are right, and this is all there is, then when this life ends, it is over. No more. Do I have anything to lose in believing? No.
     What if they are wrong and I am right? What do they lose? They lose the opportunity here on earth to experience God's grace and mercy, and ever-outstretched arms to hold them. They lose comfort and guidance. They have to go at it alone.They lose the peace and assurance that all the miseries of this life will pass away and we will find rest in His Presence. They will lose eternity with Him. Do they have anything to lose in not believing? Yes.
     One thing I can say with all certainty, is that atheists have to be very confident, self-assured people.  I could never tackle the heartaches, trials, and tribulations of this life without my God. I know without a single doubt in my mind that God has brought me this far. Had I rejected Christ and not made Him Lord of my life, I am certain my life would be in a much different place. I still question, still try to figure God out. The difference is that I do it in faith. I do it as a way to draw closer to Him, not to disprove Him. I seek God....and He shows up!

     I have everything to gain and nothing to lose in believing. I am just not sure those who reject God or refuse to believe in Him can say the same. I ponder what I have to lose in believing or not. Do they do the same?

     Below are the lyrics and a video to Nichole Nordeman's "What If..."  I know what happens if I am wrong. Do they?



What if you're right?
And he was just another nice guy
What if you're right?
What if it's true?
They say the cross will only make a fool of you
And what if it's true?

What if he takes his place in history
With all the prophets and the kings
Who taught us love and came in peace
But then the story ends
What then?

But what if you're wrong?
What if there's more?
What if there's hope you never dreamed of hoping for?
What if you jump?
And just close your eyes?
What if the arms that catch you, catch you by surprise?
What if He's more than enough?
What if it's love?

What if you dig
Way down deeper than your simple-minded friends
What if you dig?
What if you find
A thousand more unanswered questions down inside
That's all you find?

What if you pick apart the logic
And begin to poke the holes
What if the crown of thorns is no more
Than folklore that must be told and retold?

You've been running as fast as you can
You've been looking for a place you can land for so long
But what if you're wrong?

It's All About Respect

As I began participating in the Abstinence Training program that First Choice leads in the classrooms of area schools, I was a little apprehensive. I was unsure if that was the route that God wanted me to take.  For nearly five years, I served as a client advocate, but as with a lot of things, I felt my season was over in that position. I stepped back and took time away from the Center. However, also as with a lot of things, God was pushing me back, but I didn’t know in which position.

One day, out of the blue, I received a request from Carol, our Abstinence Coordinator. She needed help in the classrooms. Either she caught me on good day, or God just took over (I prefer the latter), and I accepted. As I mentioned, I was a bit apprehensive even after accepting.

After sharing classes with Carol as part of my training, and then leading, then solo classes, all apprehension is gone. I have fallen in love with this endeavor. Going into the classes, meeting students of all socioeconomic and racial demographics, and watching them open up and respond to our teachings is so fulfilling. I leave each day looking forward to the next, and have bittersweet feelings at the end of the week when I have to move on.

The one thing I have learned with each of these classes and students is that they want to be treated with respect. When we share knowledge with them, and help them explore the consequences of actions, we leave the choice up to them. We don’t go in with heads shaking and fingers wagging saying, “Sex is bad. Don’t have sex.” We equip them and leave the choice to them so are empowered. I do believe these kids can make the right decision. We do not say, “You should wait to have sex, but we really know you won’t so at least use a condom.”  If we were to do that, they would feel as though we have no faith in them whatsoever. That is not the respect they so crave.

We share the love of God with them, but not directly. We share it by telling them that we care about them, and want them to make wise, informed decisions. We tell them we know they are capable of such decisions. That is all they want and need. They need someone to educate them, encourage them, and trust them. Isn’t that what we all want and need?

Just a little added something....

Troup County Teen Maze Event
Just this week, I was able to take part in a local event geared to equip teens with knowledge that they can use to make wise and informed decisions. From sexual experiences to drunk driving, teens were able to explore the consequences of their decisions.

"Please Show Me"

Entering a new chapter in life can be quite unnerving. However, finally doing what God wants you to do can be quite reassuring in times of change. I knew from the time I met my husband that God wanted me to have a family and raise my children to know Him. That task has been a fulltime job! When the youngest entered school, I had a little extra time on my hands and felt led to do something. So I looked to getting a job that would be flexible enough to handle the kids' schedules yet still earn some cash. Real estate seemed to be a good route. Little did I know that unless you pour your blood, sweat, and tears into it, the field yields very little cash and takes up a great deal of time. As a mom, my blood, sweat, tears, and time are needed elsewhere.

While being a wife and mother is highly fulfilling, I have had the still small voice telling me I needed to do more for the Kingdom. Feeling a push toward Christian ministry, I felt in no way was God calling me to the pulpit. Or at least I don't think He is. Through much prayer and inquiry, I have realized there is more to Christian ministry than just preaching on Sunday mornings. The Lord is so good in pointing us in the right direction if we just open our hearts and minds to His leading. I began directing my prayers to "please show me." When we pray that prayer and honestly want God to show us, doors are opened.

Recently, Point University opened a satellite campus in West Point, Georgia. It is convenient and affordable, and a Christian college! So, I began researching, and procrastinating, and doubting. I was worried what folks would think. I was wondering how I could do this with the schedule I have. I mulled over the finances. Yet, I once again prayed "please show me." Point has an adult student program geared at enabling working adults with busy schedules to complete a full degree program. WOW! I am still waiting on word of acceptance to the program, but waiting with peace. God has brought me to this, and He will continue to lead me as long as I let Him.

As I wait, He has placed other opportunities to do His work. I have been given the pleasure of visiting older adults in our church, working with the three and four year olds' choir, serving as an abstinence trainer affiliated with our local pregnancy center, and chairman of our church's mission committee and local children's camp board in the coming year. Each of those endeavors, I can serve Christ and share his love with people of all ages. I am thrilled at the opportunities He has shown me.

Be careful when you pray "please show me" because He is ready to do just that.

Psalm 25

¹ In you, LORD my God,
I put my trust.

² I trust in you;
do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
³ No one who hopes in you
will ever be put to shame,
but shame will come on those
who are treacherous without cause.

⁴ Show me your ways, LORD,
teach me your paths.
⁵ Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
⁶ Remember, LORD, your great mercy and love,
for they are from of old.
⁷ Do not remember the sins of my youth
and my rebellious ways;
according to your love remember me,
for you, LORD, are good.

⁸ Good and upright is the LORD;
therefore he instructs sinners in his ways.
⁹ He guides the humble in what is right
and teaches them his way.
¹⁰ All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful
toward those who keep the demands of his covenant.
¹¹ For the sake of your name, LORD,
forgive my iniquity, though it is great.

¹² Who, then, are those who fear the LORD?
He will instruct them in the ways they should choose.^[b]
13 They will spend their days in prosperity,
and their descendants will inherit the land.
¹⁴ The LORD confides in those who fear him;
he makes his covenant known to them.
¹⁵ My eyes are ever on the LORD,
for only he will release my feet from the snare.

¹⁶ Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
¹⁷ Relieve the troubles of my heart
and free me from my anguish.
¹⁸ Look on my affliction and my distress
and take away all my sins.
¹⁹ See how numerous are my enemies
and how fiercely they hate me!

²⁰ Guard my life and rescue me;
do not let me be put to shame,
for I take refuge in you.
²¹ May integrity and uprightness protect me,
because my hope, LORD,^[c] is in you.

²² Deliver Israel, O God,
from all their troubles!

Faith Can Move Mountains...Even Bureaucratic Ones!

Kutless- What Faith Can Do

Today, I marvel at what faith can do. Prayer really does work wonders. Miracles happen. God is bigger than anything. He opens doors. We are His instruments. However, in order for Him to use us, we must have some level of faith. He doesn't even ask much of us in the amount of faith.

He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”Matthew 17:20

In saying that, we must be willing participants. We must want to serve the Lord, and believe in His mighty powers. He can use us, but He does not need us to carry out His plans. He is God. His word tells us that if we keep quiet, the rocks themselves will cry out. I don't know about you guys, but I don't want a rock taking my place.


“I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” Luke 19:40

Yesterday, a plea went out via Facebook in Team Caleb's group. It was a simple plea, yet extremely desperate from a mother reaching out for help on behalf of her precious child. While in Houston trying to get treatment started for Caleb, his mom Jana ran into bureaucratic red tape. Her plea was as follows:
Ok Team Caleb, I need your help. The FDA has a new person in charge of reviewing case. It could take up to 2 weeks before we get approval. Please help me. We need letters from Congress persons or anyone with any political power to bang on the door of the FDA to get Caleb on this trial please have anyone you know fax or email the FDA on Caleb's behalf. The tumor is progressing and we are waiting without out treatment. Please help in any way possible.

You would be amazed at the response this request got and the speed at which people all over the country began scouring their resources. People put aside pride, and hesitation, and flooded their congressmen, state representatives, government employees, doctor friends with pleas for intervention. Within a matter of hours, the red tape was cut. The Kinnersley's got word that FDA approval had come for Caleb's clinical trial treatments.

I still stand in awe at what can happen when God's children bind together. When over 2400 people are praying for this child, good things happen. Our prayers don't stop there. We pray for Caleb. We pray for each other. We pray for the FDA. We pray for the Burzynski Clinic. We pray that God shows out in a mighty way.

God has brought Caleb this far. He has brought over 2400 people together for a common cause. He says wherever two or more are gathered, He is there also. He says whatever we ask in His name, it shall be given. I believe that. I claim that.

I posted the video above to Kutless' What Faith Can do. Read the lyrics below as a prayer. Ask God to increase your faith so you can move mountains. I don't refer to physical mountains, but those mountains that get in our way of living out our lives for Christ. Yesterday, the Kinnersley's faced a mountain...a governmental, bureaucratic mountain. Faith moved that mountain. Now on to the miracles! Go TEAM CALEB!!
 

Everybody falls sometimes
Gotta find the strength to rise
From the ashes and make a new beginning
Anyone can feel the ache
You think its more than you can take
But you are stronger, stronger than you know
Don't you give up now
The sun will soon be shining
You gotta face the clouds
To find the silver lining

I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered                                                      
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do

It doesn't matter what you've heard
Impossible is not a word
It's just a reason for someone not to try
Everybody's scared to death
When they decide to take that step
Out on the water
It'll be alright
Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing

I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do

Overcome the odds
You don't have a chance
(That's what faith can do)
When the world says you can't
It'll tell you that you can!

I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do
That's what faith can do!
Even if you fall sometimes
You will have the strength to rise

What Can I Do in This World?

I have recently had opportunities that have enabled me to grow in my life. It amazes me how God uses people and circumstances to reach others. Some may never know how their actions or situations can affect another.

Lately, I have encountered several families and individuals whose circumstances and/or comments have impacted me personally. The effect has not been the same for all instances.

A few cases have involved illness or loss that have prompted me to pray. I have made prayer a daily part of my life for a long time, but lately, it has become a more prominent part. It has become a privilege to pray for others. I find myself saying little breath prayers for others throughout the day. I take time to pray for myself specifically, too. I take time out of my day, separating myself, and to prayerfully offer focused intercessions to God on behalf of others. I do not share this to say, "Hey, look at what a good person I am!" I say this to share another little way I am finding my place.

Another recent event has been the abstinence training I am involved with in the schools. Through the coach whose class we are in this week, I learned a "help"ful acronym. He uses H.E.L.P in aiding kids with making wise decisions in actions. When faced with a decision to make, four questions can be asked to determine the course of action.
H is for "is it healthy?"
E is for "is it ethical?"
L is for "is it legal?"
P is for "would parents approve?"
Unless one can answer all in the affirmative, then one should probably refrain from the action. While this is a teaching tool used with high schoolers, I believe if all analyzed situations in this manner, society as a whole could improve. Now, I realize we don't live in a perfect world, and we can't change everyone, but we can change ourselves.

Mahatma Gandhi said: "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Remembering 9/11

No words can begin to describe the feelings so many Americans have on this day. As I sit here and watch footage of that day, my heart breaks all over again. A knot in my stomach forms. Fear wells up.
We all remember where we were and what we were doing when we heard. We raced to the nearest TV. We sat dumbfounded as we saw two burning skyscrapers. While in the midst of disbelief and prayers came the horror of watching the buildings collapse. Could this be happening? A short time later come more reports...the Pentagon, the plane in Pennsylvania...are there more? What about Atlanta? The busiest airport in the nation...is it a target? Is it over or are there more to come?
All of these questions and emotions are made fresh again as we remember and relive. Fear, hurt, anger...so fresh again. Our country, our world has not been the same since that day. One thing I long for though from that day and the days to follow, is the spirit of patriotism, love for America, the banding together against an evil one.
Whether all care to admit, we were all affected that day. Our lives changed forever. The nation changed forever. My prayer is that God will guide us and protect us. May God bless those who have lost in this tragedy, and those who serve to ensure or freedoms.
Pledge of Allegiance  
I pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.
"I pledge allegiance" (I promise to be true)
"to the flag" (to the symbol of our country)
"of the United States of America" (each state that has joined to make our country)
"and to the Republic" (a republic is a country where the people choose others to make laws for them -- the government is "of, by and for" the people)
"for which it stands," (the flag means the country) "one nation" (a single country)
"under God," (the people believe in a supreme being) "indivisible," (the country cannot be split into parts)
"with Liberty and Justice" (with freedom and fairness) "for all." (for each person in the country...you and me!)
*copied from http://www.wvsd.uscourts.gov/outreach/Pledge.htm

I Will Praise You in The Storm

Casting Crowns' Praise You in the Storm

It is so easy for us to rock along in our daily lives, giving thanks to God here and there, without really thinking about it. When something amazing happens, we react one of two ways—either we jump to our feet and give God the glory OR we say, “Wow! How lucky are we?” or “Look what I did!”

However when something bad happens, we react in a multitude of ways at times. Sometimes our first instinct is to say, “Why me?” or lay blame on someone else. Other times we blame God directly. When we go through these storms in life, how often is our first instinct to praise Him in it? I am so guilty of having one of the other reactions most times.

I am a pretty smart lady…just slow at times J  Eventually, I come around and focus on God in the storm. “Eventually” is not good enough. “Better late than never” is not good enough. I realize, often too late, that I could have found comfort and peace much sooner had I turned to God in the beginning. Better yet, never turn from Him at all. In His word, He promises to be there for us.

Psalm 121

¹ I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
² My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

³ He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
⁴ indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

⁵ The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
⁶ the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

⁷ The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
⁸ the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

We should not put God in a box and only take Him out to say thanks, or to ask for something. Like a most trusted friend, we should to turn to Him in good times and bad, and all in between. If we distance God in the good times, and chalk our good fortune up to luck or give ourselves the credit, then it sometimes makes it hard to reach out to God in the bad times. Think of people around you that you consider friends. There are those you would not hesitate to call in times of need or times of joy. There are others who you say are friends, but would they actually be someone you would call for help or to share good news? Our Father waits for your call daily. He is ALWAYS there…it is we who drift away. Praise Him in the sunshine…Praise Him in the storm.

James, Love of my Life, Soulmate

Today, I am thinking of James. The love of my life. My soulmate.  As I wait to accompany him to a follow-up appointment after a recent CT scan of his sinuses, I am reminded of how much I need him.  While there is no suspicion at all of any serious condition and no need for worry, just the mere mention of a test of this sort incites a small amount of anxiety. As I work through the anxiety, I think of how wonderful my life is because of this man.

I am extremely blessed to have James in my life, to be married to him, to be mother to his children. I worried back when our relationship was new that one day we would get bored or boring, that the spark would fade and we would just live with each other in a dull routine.  He promised to me many years ago that it would not happen to us, as it does to others. He promised a “non-boring” life and a “non-boring” life is what I have! Now one might say it’s the three children and their busy schedules that keep it lively, but I disagree.

 The “non-boring” part is when I wake in the morning, and the first this he does is call me “baby.” He sends me a simple text, “lunch?” He always greets me with a kiss. He tells me how proud of me he is. He laughs with me. He accepts me. He makes me feel important. He knows me. He loves me! These little, seemingly insignificant, things keep it interesting for me. I don’t need worldly vacations, romantic dinners, or expensive gifts to keep the love alive. I just need him to be with me.

Our children do keep us busy, but they are not the reason we stay strong. They will be out of the house and our daily lives one day (sooner than I realize) and it will just be us again. We knew long ago that we couldn’t just live for our kids because then what would bind us when they are gone? We love them to infinity and beyond, but they are just a blessing and result of our immense love for one another. I told him yesterday that we make a good team, the best team. With him, I can be my best.

We thank God daily for our blessings. We cover each other in prayer. We seek God together. I have to believe that in doing so, we draw closer to God, and to each other. We go to church together and hold hands anytime we pray. He said to me early on that if we are to be one, we should pray as one. 

Mark 10:7-9 says “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” 

God blessed me more than I can ever know when He sent His Son to save me. Sending James to me was probably the second biggest blessing that I also view as an act of His saving grace.

Martina McBride
“Blessed”

Back Where I Come From

As my blog is titled, “My Place in this World”, most of my writings are somewhat centered on finding or identifying my place, my purpose. Some of the posts have dealt with my tasks as a mother, wife, Christian, and even an activist in a sense. I am not writing for anyone, or to accomplish anything, except maybe to share my thoughts and faith with the world J

We all have a place in this world. We are all part of God’s creation whether we believe it or not. Should you decide you evolved from fish or monkeys or some other creature, I believe I was beautifully and wonderfully made by the Master Creator God. As stated in Psalm 139:13-16,

¹³ For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
¹⁵ My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
¹⁶ your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.

As part of my search of my place in this world, I found it necessary to dig a little and find out where I came from… a little family history, if you will. I began in the most logical place, as anyone would begin to look…yeah, I googled. I had a few names and places from relatives that I could play around with. My search took me to an amazing site of www.familysearch.org . The web is full of sites and an abundance of information, but I am a cheapskate and refuse to pay for any info. I found a ton of information such as census records, military registrations, and other documents on this site for without cost or registration.

On my paternal side, I have been able to go back 5 and 6 generations on various lines. Names like Greenfield and Sloop, and the ever common Jackson have popped up. It excites me to see the hand-written census records of 1850 and 1860. Imagining my ancestors living in antebellum times, thru the “War Between the States” and beyond has become a favorite pastime for me. As I had been told a line of my ancestors were Cherokee Indian, census records only had three racial distinctions pre-1900’s… white, black, or mulatto, so most were listed as mulatto in my line. I find it funny how things have changed when you see all of the choices of today on any type of application.

As I continue on my quest to find or even make my place in this world, I will take a moment to remember those who have gone before me. I will honor those who have toiled to support their families and instill values for generations to come. I have a place in this line of people. More importantly, I have a place in God's family, and will do my best to honor that heritage, also.

The Day Family 1922

 "Back where I come from
Where I'll be when it's said and done
I'm proud as anyone
Back where I come from"

This One's for Caleb

As we go about our daily routines, we find it easy to overlook or discount things or complain about our circumstances. We find it easy until we hear someone's story like Caleb.

Caleb is the six year old son of my husband's coworker. A vibrant, inquisitive, intelligent little boy to say the least. A smile that lights up a room, and warms the coldest of hearts. He has been diagnosed with a rare, inoperable type of brain cancer. News like that can really cause one to examine his/her own circumstances and realize very quickly that "hey, I actually have it pretty good!"

In a very short amount of time, I have seen a small circle of friends reach out, spread the word, and get folks praying all over the world thru a Facebook group page (Praying for Caleb (Team Caleb). Last count was 1422 Members in 15 Countries - Africa, Belgium, Ethiopia, Hong Kong, Germany, Sweden, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Korea, Canada, The Philippines, China, The United Kingdom & The United States of AMERICA (GA, SC, NC, AL, TX, VA, CO, IA, IN, NM, FL, TN, MA, CA, MO, OH, WI, MI, KS, UT,IL, AZ, OR, WA, SD, ND, NV, MD, NY, ID, PA, NE, HI, OK & MS). Another site: http://www.team-caleb.com/ has also been set up to allow readers to donate "caps and coins" to Caleb and for the family to give updates.

I do not write this to solicit donations, though I do encourage if you are able or feel so led to do so, but I write to solicit prayers. Please include Caleb in your daily prayers. Give God the glory for the miracle in advance. I believe in a God of Grace, a God of Love, a God of Miracles. He is more powerful than cancer. He is bigger than anything. Our Lord raised Lazarus from the dead...FROM THE DEAD!! He can do anything. There are many who are standing in the gap for Caleb, and his family. Please join us as we go to God on Caleb's behalf!

Teach Our Children Well

One issue plaguing today's society that I feel so strongly about is the issue of teenage pregnancy, and Troup County has some of the highest rates in the state. There are so many points I could try to make, but recently read an article on Fox News' online opinion section written by Anne Nolte who practices family medicine in Manhattan that says it perfectly.

“Could it be that teens really are capable of self-control, moral decision-making and goal-directed behavior? That teens would adopt healthier behaviors if they got a consistent message from parents, teachers, doctors and the media that risk-avoidance, rather than simply risk-reduction, is possible and would maximize their happiness? Could it be that we -- the adults who discount their potential for acting with integrity and maturity -- are part of the problem? In every other public-health intervention, an ideal is promoted: no-smoking campaigns, no-soda-drinking campaigns. Why not in the area of teen sexuality?I don't believe that this mandate springs from some hidden agenda to increase teen sexual behavior by saturating them with information about sex. It isn't part of some hidden plot to undermine society or the rights of parents or religious organizations. I just believe that it isn't going to work -- and that our teens will continue to pay the price for our lack of courage.”

We choose to educate America’s youth on “safe sex” practices. We show the STD slides. We tell them where babies come from. Then we hand them condoms and pills. In doing so, we show them we have no faith that they can make the wise and truly safe decision. Teenagers today have access to condoms and contraceptives at their fingertips. As Ms. Nolte mentions also in her article, “They know where to get it, when to use it and what can happen if they don't. Yet teen pregnancy rates remain unacceptably high; sexually transmitted diseases in some major cities are epidemic.” Alcoholics Anonymous has a saying that reads, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results." How long will we continue on this path before we realize that something is just not working?

I challenge you to look honestly at teen pregnancy and the astounding rates of STD’s among our youth. How effective is it to say, “You shouldn’t have sex because of the potential health risks….but since I know you will anyway, here’s a condom”? We don’t tell them, “You shouldn’t use drugs, but since you are anyway, here’s a clean needle just to be safe.” If we began to talk to these young adults as adults, showing respect and faith that they could, in fact, choose the wise path, is it possible we may see a shift? Abstinence is the only surefire way to protect our youth against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms and contraceptives are nothing more than a band-aid solution to an ever-growing gaping wound. Please support increased abstinence training in the sex education arena, not having it mentioned as just a possible alternative.

As a former pregnancy center counselor, and new abstinence training volunteer, I am no stranger to seeing many young girls and guys get their life sidetracked. I am saddened by the way society sees this as a problem, yet refuses to give our youth credit enough to make the right decision if educated properly. Abstinence information is barely given any attention, and usually just thrown into a sex education curriculum to pacify. More emphasis should be given rather than explaining how to properly use contraceptives.

As I mentioned in an earlier blog...the children are our future....teach them well, and let them lead the way.

For Ms. Nolte's full article on Fox News online--

click here

Thank you, Sheila.

Today, I sit with a heavy heart. Part of me saddened upon hearing the news of Sheila Richards’ passing, while another rejoices that she is healed and in the arms of the Lord. Sheila was a DJ for J93.3 years ago, and in more recent years, had returned to the Atlanta airwaves. In 2005, through the Emmaus community emails, we learned Sheila had ovarian cancer and were encouraged to drop a card or line with well wishes. I decided to send her a quick note, telling her we would be praying, and that my dad was battling lung cancer at the same time. Within a short time of hitting the send button on the email, I received a response.
My email-
Sheila,
My dad just had his first round of chemo. I had everyone in the world praying for him. Now Day Five and no adverse effects. We will be praying that you receive the same results.
In Christ's Love,
Jennifer
Her reply:
Sheila Richards Harper wrote:
Thank you so much, Jennifer. Everyone has such stories to share, I know God is giving me my own story now. I hope to have a story like your father. I feel great right now, just this big huge stomach wound, trying to heal. I feel this first round is going to make everyone go wow, prayer works, let’s keep it up. I pray God gives me the opportunity when this is all over, to let the world know of His power, His glory, His love. And to help other women know how important it is to stay healthy, not to look good, but for your health. And to be stronger with doctors, to listen to their bodies. I had now warning, that’s the thing with ovarian, it’s silent. As soon as I started symptoms, I went immediately to doctors, within 2 weeks, diagnosed with cancer.
Thanks for sharing with me about your dad. I am so loved by so many, I had no idea. God is just pouring it all out on me at one time. I am very blessed. I shall pray for your dad, what is his name? I’ll ask my friends to pray, too.
Blessings,
Sheila
You might be the only example of Jesus someone sees today...LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!!!

This short email thread sparked an ongoing prayer intercession. She prayed for my dad, and we prayed for her. My dad was not a religious, church-going man. However, something changed when I told him about Sheila and her willingness to pray for him. Not a visit or phone call went by that he didn’t ask about her and her progress. I included her on my email updates regarding him also. The day of his funeral, unbeknownst to her (pre-Facebook) he had passed, she called me…just to say she was thinking of me and my dad. When I told her he had died, she prayed. The odd thing is, for the last 6 years, Sheila has been a friend to me, yet I have never met her in person. We talked on the phone, emailed, Facebooked, etc.
I am certain there are others who have similar stories about Sheila. She was a loving and giving person. She looked past her own circumstances to pray for others. She did just as her email tagline says “Let Your Light Shine!!!” She didn’t just say it…she lived it. Sheila Richards shined her light brightly. Hopefully, the world will not darken with her absence, but that her light will continue to shine through those she has touched.
As she entered the gates of Heaven this morning in a complete and new body, free of pain and disease, the angels sang, and Jesus received her with open arms. She has been healed. Our prayers have been answered. She fought the good fight and now has received her reward.
As I close, I imagine my dad being there to hug Sheila and to thank her for her concern and prayers. I imagine there are others standing in line to welcome her. I am sure many that she didn’t even know she touched. As I imagine this meeting, I am reminded of the lyrics in the Ray Boltz’ song "Thank You":

One by one they came
Far as your eyes could see
Each life somehow touched
By your generosity
Little things that you had done
Sacrifices you made
They were unnoticed on the earth
In heaven now proclaimed

And I know that up in heaven
You're not supposed to cry
But I am almost sure
There were tears in your eyes
As Jesus took your hand
And you stood before the Lord
He said, my child look around you
For great is your reward

Thank you, Sheila. I am so glad you gave.

The Standard Where I Fall Short

Proverbs 31:10 -31
Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character
10 A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31 Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

These verses seem to be a common thread among Mother's Day sermons over the years. I know it is not Mother's Day and I don't intend on writing about the holiday. These verses, however, come to mind when I think about my duties as a wife and mother. When weighed against this standard, I always fall short. I find myself throwing a pity party on what a failure as a wife and mother I am. I don't cook every meal, sew our clothes, plant a garden, have a business, etc. I can almost not even relate to the passage at all.
As I read, and I think about what my duties entail, I decide to change a few verses. I dare not do this to toot my own horn, but just to acknowledge to myself that I do in fact measure up pretty well if judged in the right context. Let's check out a few verses again (now paraphrased).

She goes school shopping to make sure her children are thoroughly equipped.
She grocery shops to make sure her pantry and fridge are full.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she reminds her children to eat breakfast, pack lunches, and drink water at practices.
She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.
She looks for deals and tries to be frugal, and her lamp does not go out at night.
She does what she can to help the less fortunate thru Camp Viola, Pregnancy Center, Mission Work.
When trouble comes, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in in the Blood of the Lamb.
She makes makes the beds; she does her best to take care of herself, and her home.
Her husband is respected at the county, where he takes his seat among the public officials of the area.
She volunteers in the community to give back as a response to the many blessings she has received.
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household, keeps track of everyone’s schedules and transportation needs, and does not eat the bread of idleness, and sometimes not even lunch!
Her children arise and call her blessed (in a way); her husband also, and he praises her:
“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.”
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

I will always fall short in some area. That is a given! However, isn't it wonderful that our Lord looks to our heart? I do not do what I do out of obligation, but out of love. My house may not be as clean as another family's, or I may not dress as cool as another mom, but my children and husband will never doubt my love for them. Nor will they ever doubt my love for God. So, I guess after pondering just a little more on these verses, and modernizing just a bit, I seem to be doing A-OK! The job is not done yet though! Back to work! :)

Excerpt from Rick Warren’s The Purpose-Driven Life:
"It's not about you. The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It's far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were made by God and for God, and until you understand that, life will not make sense."

I am often reminded that my life is not my own. Sometimes, I get caught up in daily activities and extremely frustrated wanting to shout, "What about what I want?!" or "When is it my turn?" Then, I take a step back and remember my blessings. I am faced daily with my responsibilities involved with being a wife, a mother, and a Christian. While I often get loud with my children, or feel inadequate as a wife, and certainly unworthy of God's grace, I rejoice in the fact that I have children, a loving husband, and a Perfect God. And they all love me unconditionally! When I ponder the excerpt above, I am comforted that God has a plan for me. As I continue to seek Him, He will continue to reveal Himself and His plan to me.

In all of this, I am certain I will mess up and fall short. However, I will never fall from the loving arms of Christ. It is not about me, or what I want. It is about a relationship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and continually basking in love! Believe and Receive!

I still want things for myself. I still crave attention. I have tried lately to focus those wants and desires into something that glorifies God. As I remember the Legacy song by Nichole Nordeman, my heart's desires are revealed. I want to glorify the Father with my life. I want my children to love the Lord. I want to share my faith with the world. So I guess I can get what I want sometimes :)

"Let the children come to Me.."

While I don't shelter my children excessively from life's evils, I do not like having them inundated with smut either. A great deal of Hollywood productions are just that...SMUT! I am put off by the way things such as drugs, bullying, profanity, and even suicide seems to be romanticized in many movies. I think it goes without saying that the sexual content and violence are over the top also. Lately, I have seen a few movies lately myself that friends and acquaintences have raved about, and found them to fall under the category of "SMUT."
Here is a great link for parents to use before their children watch movies.

PluggedIn Movie Reviews

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)

This verse should be applied to every aspect of our child-rearing from eating habits to personal choices to spiritual growth (and everything in between). We have a tremendous responsibility as parents. As the old saying goes, "The children are our future..."

What LaGrange First UMC Means to Me

"The church is not a building,
The church is not a steeple,
The church is not a resting place,
The church is a people
I am the Church, you are the Church,
We are the Church together.
All who follow Jesus all around the world,
Yes, we’re the Church together.”

August 1996. Fifteen years ago this month we came to LaGrange First. Within the first hour after church, we were visited by Oleeta Aspinwall and Memory Johnson. Such a warm welcome to the three of us at the time, new in town, no family here. These ladies ministered to us through the Andrew Team. They may not have realized the impact they made, but they shared the love of Christ with us. We soon found our place in a wonderful Sunday School class, The Seekers, and joined UMW and UMM. Through these ministries of the church, we were able to meet and fellowship and grow in Christ with others.

July 2004. Seven years ago last month we came back to LaGrange First after having lived in Newnan for four years. Within a very short time, we were encouraged to rejoin the FEAST group rotation. If you have not experienced this ministry of First Methodist, you are missing out on a true blessing. Through this outlet, we have formed lasting friendships and been truly blessed with the connections that may not have been made otherwise. After a few months, I stepped up just as a helper in the children’s choir program. Before long, I was actually leading the choir. This is something I never thought would happen since the only place I can sing on key is in my car, but only alone, because the acoustics are best when I am alone. Nevertheless, I led, then assisted Julianne Lynn for quite some time. You would not believe the blessings I received! My heart was warmed each and every week, and especially on Sundays when the Tuneful Tots performed. I stepped out of the box and took a chance doing something I really wasn’t qualified to do, yet God blessed me in doing it.

Today. I find myself having served on committees, you know-- the behind-the-scenes workers, completed a Disciple 1 bible study (which I highly recommend if you have the opportunity. Make the time to do it), signed up for the Visitation team to spend time with shut-ins and such, and still in a wonderful Sunday School class that challenges me each and every week to grow in Christ.

I want to be here, not because it is expected, or because I want to set a good example. I want to be here so that I can continue to grow in Christ, so that God’s Holy Spirit can grow in me. “Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me, O God.” My spirit is renewed through those, who are many, who have given of themselves. Because they gave, they served, I have been touched by so many ministries of this church. I have been so blessed. As I am blessed, I can go out and share the love of Christ I have received. I can give to the community through other ministries such as Camp Viola and the Pregnancy Center. There is something here for everyone…we just need to find our niche. Had just one person decided it was too much trouble or effort to take part in a ministry of this church, my blessings would have not been as abundant.

My motive is to serve others, to grow in my relationship with Christ, and to live for eternity with God. I cannot do this on my own. I need this church.

"The church is not a building,
The church is not a steeple,
The church is not a resting place,
The church is a people
I am the Church, you are the Church,
We are the Church together.
All who follow Jesus all around the world,
Yes, we’re the Church together.”