 | You scored as John Calvin. Much of what is now called Calvinism had more to do with his followers than Calvin himself, and so you may or may not be committed to TULIP, though God's sovereignty is all important.
Which theologian are you? created with QuizFarm.com |
Monday, May 21, 2007
Which theologian are you?
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Anger, frustration and discouragement
It has been a difficult year at work. After last year's problems and the accusations I knew this year would be hard. I felt, though, that God was directing me to stay. Running from my problems wasn't the way to solve them. I have felt bombarded all year. It seems I am embroiled in serious spiritual battle. There are day's it seems I can do nothing right. I have questioned if this job is the right thing...if I should stay...if I should change careers. I have doubted my abilities.
Depression has flirted all around. Panic and anxiety have been a plague. I felt attacked from all sides. Discouragement has been a regular occurance.
I didn't give up, though. Pushing forward, I've trusted God at every turn. There had to be an end and things would get better. God was using this to teach me, to make me grow, to draw me closer to him.
I'll admit I haven't always been good through this process. Sometime I complained because of how uncomfortable the whole thing has been. There were times when giving up would have been the easiest thing to do. There were times I grumbled. However, I continued to realize God was in control.
Yesterday was my yearly evaluation. I don't know what I expected. My boss actually asked if I wanted to be doing my job! He said I seemed 'frail' and unhappy. He suggested I might want to consider another career. He brough my health up and that I seem to get ill "a lot". He suggested I should make more of an effort to reunite the arts department.
In the end I passed my evaluation; however, I felt totally shreaded. I don't know what to do. Being a drama teacher has been amazing...teaching English has been awful. I want to be faithful. I want to be a good teacher. I just don't know. I didn't feel that he always understood or listened to what I tried to say.
It is amazing, though, how God is still in control. This morning, I opened an e-mail devotional. Elizabeth Elliot has been such a source of encouragement and teaching this year. God has continually sent me just what I needed just when I needed to hear it.
Prayer is Conflict
Prayer is no easy pastime. As I grow old I find that I am more conscious than ever of my need to pray, but it seems at the same time to become more of a struggle. It is harder to concentrate, for one thing. I was greatly helped by some private notes Amy Carmichael wrote to her "Family" (hundreds of children and their helpers, both Indian and European) in Dohnavur, South India, to help them prepare for a special day of prayer.
She quoted Paul's letter to the Colossians (2:1, KJV): "I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you." He is referring at least in part to the conflict of prayer. The same verse is translated "how greatly I strive" in the Revised Version; "how deep is my anxiety" in J.B. Phillips; and, in the Jerusalem Bible, "Yes, I want you to know that I do have to struggle hard for you... to bind you together in love and to stir your minds, so that your understanding may come to full development, until you really know God's secret in which all the jewels of wisdom and knowledge are hidden."
Here are Amy's notes:
WITH WHAT DID I STRUGGLE?
1. With all that says to me, what is the use of your praying? So many others, who know more of prayer than you do, are praying. What difference does it make whether you pray or not? Are you sure that your Lord is listening? Of course He is listening to the other prayers but yours are of such small account, are you really sure He is "bending His ear" to you?
2. With all that suggests that we are asked to give too much time to prayer. There is so much to do. Why set aside so much time just to pray?
3. With all that discourages me personally--perhaps the remembrance of past sin, perhaps spiritual or physical tiredness; with anything and everything that keeps me back from what occupied St. Paul so often--vital prayer.
WHAT WILL HELP ME MOST IN THIS WRESTLE?
1. The certain knowledge that our insignificance does not matter at all, for we do not come to the Father in our own name but in the Name of His beloved Son. His ear is always open to that Name. Of this we can be certain.
2. The certain knowledge that this is Satan's lie; he is much more afraid of our prayer than our work. (This is proved by the immense difficulties we always find when we set ourselves to pray. They are much greater than those we meet when we set ourselves to work.)
3. Isaiah 44:22 and kindred words, with 1 John 1:9, meet all distress about sin. Isaiah 40:29-31 with 2 Corinthians 12:9,10 meets everything that spiritual or physical weariness can do to hinder. Psalm 27:8 with Isaiah 45:19 meets all other difficulties. And the moment we say to our God, "Thy face, Lord, will I seek," His mighty energies come to the rescue. (See Colossians 1:2,9.) Greater, far greater, is He that is in us than he that is against us. Count on the greatness of God. But are we to go on wrestling to the end?
No, there is a point to which we come, when, utterly trusting the promise of our Father, we rest our hearts upon Him. It is then we are given what St. Paul calls access with confidence (Ephesians 3:12). But don't forget that this access is by faith, not by feeling, faith in Him our living Lord; He who says "Come unto Me" does not push us away when we come. As we go on, led by the Holy Spirit who so kindly helps our infirmities, we find ourselves in 1 John 5:14,15 and lastly in Philippians 4:6, . It is good to remember that immediate answer to prayer is not always something seen, but it is always inward peace.
And if the day ends otherwise and we are discouraged? Then tell Him so, "nothing ashamed of tears upon His feet" [here she is quoting from F.W.H. Meyers's poem "St. Paul"]. Lord, Thou knowest all things. Thou knowest that I love Thee. "Yes, my child, I know." But don't settle down into an "it will never be different" attitude. It will be different if only in earnest we follow on to know the Lord.
Depression has flirted all around. Panic and anxiety have been a plague. I felt attacked from all sides. Discouragement has been a regular occurance.
I didn't give up, though. Pushing forward, I've trusted God at every turn. There had to be an end and things would get better. God was using this to teach me, to make me grow, to draw me closer to him.
I'll admit I haven't always been good through this process. Sometime I complained because of how uncomfortable the whole thing has been. There were times when giving up would have been the easiest thing to do. There were times I grumbled. However, I continued to realize God was in control.
Yesterday was my yearly evaluation. I don't know what I expected. My boss actually asked if I wanted to be doing my job! He said I seemed 'frail' and unhappy. He suggested I might want to consider another career. He brough my health up and that I seem to get ill "a lot". He suggested I should make more of an effort to reunite the arts department.
In the end I passed my evaluation; however, I felt totally shreaded. I don't know what to do. Being a drama teacher has been amazing...teaching English has been awful. I want to be faithful. I want to be a good teacher. I just don't know. I didn't feel that he always understood or listened to what I tried to say.
It is amazing, though, how God is still in control. This morning, I opened an e-mail devotional. Elizabeth Elliot has been such a source of encouragement and teaching this year. God has continually sent me just what I needed just when I needed to hear it.
Prayer is Conflict
Prayer is no easy pastime. As I grow old I find that I am more conscious than ever of my need to pray, but it seems at the same time to become more of a struggle. It is harder to concentrate, for one thing. I was greatly helped by some private notes Amy Carmichael wrote to her "Family" (hundreds of children and their helpers, both Indian and European) in Dohnavur, South India, to help them prepare for a special day of prayer.
She quoted Paul's letter to the Colossians (2:1, KJV): "I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you." He is referring at least in part to the conflict of prayer. The same verse is translated "how greatly I strive" in the Revised Version; "how deep is my anxiety" in J.B. Phillips; and, in the Jerusalem Bible, "Yes, I want you to know that I do have to struggle hard for you... to bind you together in love and to stir your minds, so that your understanding may come to full development, until you really know God's secret in which all the jewels of wisdom and knowledge are hidden."
Here are Amy's notes:
WITH WHAT DID I STRUGGLE?
1. With all that says to me, what is the use of your praying? So many others, who know more of prayer than you do, are praying. What difference does it make whether you pray or not? Are you sure that your Lord is listening? Of course He is listening to the other prayers but yours are of such small account, are you really sure He is "bending His ear" to you?
2. With all that suggests that we are asked to give too much time to prayer. There is so much to do. Why set aside so much time just to pray?
3. With all that discourages me personally--perhaps the remembrance of past sin, perhaps spiritual or physical tiredness; with anything and everything that keeps me back from what occupied St. Paul so often--vital prayer.
WHAT WILL HELP ME MOST IN THIS WRESTLE?
1. The certain knowledge that our insignificance does not matter at all, for we do not come to the Father in our own name but in the Name of His beloved Son. His ear is always open to that Name. Of this we can be certain.
2. The certain knowledge that this is Satan's lie; he is much more afraid of our prayer than our work. (This is proved by the immense difficulties we always find when we set ourselves to pray. They are much greater than those we meet when we set ourselves to work.)
3. Isaiah 44:22 and kindred words, with 1 John 1:9, meet all distress about sin. Isaiah 40:29-31 with 2 Corinthians 12:9,10 meets everything that spiritual or physical weariness can do to hinder. Psalm 27:8 with Isaiah 45:19 meets all other difficulties. And the moment we say to our God, "Thy face, Lord, will I seek," His mighty energies come to the rescue. (See Colossians 1:2,9.) Greater, far greater, is He that is in us than he that is against us. Count on the greatness of God. But are we to go on wrestling to the end?
No, there is a point to which we come, when, utterly trusting the promise of our Father, we rest our hearts upon Him. It is then we are given what St. Paul calls access with confidence (Ephesians 3:12). But don't forget that this access is by faith, not by feeling, faith in Him our living Lord; He who says "Come unto Me" does not push us away when we come. As we go on, led by the Holy Spirit who so kindly helps our infirmities, we find ourselves in 1 John 5:14,15 and lastly in Philippians 4:6, . It is good to remember that immediate answer to prayer is not always something seen, but it is always inward peace.
And if the day ends otherwise and we are discouraged? Then tell Him so, "nothing ashamed of tears upon His feet" [here she is quoting from F.W.H. Meyers's poem "St. Paul"]. Lord, Thou knowest all things. Thou knowest that I love Thee. "Yes, my child, I know." But don't settle down into an "it will never be different" attitude. It will be different if only in earnest we follow on to know the Lord.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Blah and Blech!!!
Today I am BLAH!!!!!! I've been sick for a week (bronchitis) and had to take a day and a half off of work (which I never do). I went back to work today...a 15.5 hour day...great. My voice is still gone and I had to use it way too much. I feel discouraged and totally used up;. My boss mentioned this evening that I "seem to get sick a lot."...great! I'm sure he'll use this against me now. Stuff just doesn't feel right right now. So much feels...well, off. Tom seems obsessed with the finances; however, I don't know what I am supposed to do. Yes, school isn't cheap; however, doing this will help in the long run. I didn't get the scholarship; however, I might get it next year. I feel guilty about spending a dollar sometimes because of school. There are times he seems focused on the debt; however, there always seems to be enough for other stuff. I'm not a wife that claims my pay is "mine" to do with as I please. I contribute the whole to our account. I work as hard as I can for the pay I receive and there are days it just doesn't seem enough.
I'm off right now and it's making the world askew. It feels like people are shoving their problems in my direction and I'm supposed to shoulder it all. Oh...and someone is stealing stuff from Drama...again.
It feels like a spiritual attack from every side. I don't know what the lesson is I should be learning. I don't know if I am being directed to move or what that direction would even be. I'm tying to trust...I'm trying to lean...I'm trying to listen...But am I?????
So, today I am BLAH!!! Today I am BLECH!!!!! Tomorrow I will put a smile on my face and wash cars so my students can have their trip to Tampa. Tomorrow will be a new day...Tomorrow has no mistakes in it, yet.
Lord??? Help!!!!!!!!
I'm off right now and it's making the world askew. It feels like people are shoving their problems in my direction and I'm supposed to shoulder it all. Oh...and someone is stealing stuff from Drama...again.
It feels like a spiritual attack from every side. I don't know what the lesson is I should be learning. I don't know if I am being directed to move or what that direction would even be. I'm tying to trust...I'm trying to lean...I'm trying to listen...But am I?????
So, today I am BLAH!!! Today I am BLECH!!!!! Tomorrow I will put a smile on my face and wash cars so my students can have their trip to Tampa. Tomorrow will be a new day...Tomorrow has no mistakes in it, yet.
Lord??? Help!!!!!!!!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
A quote for today...
We look forward to the time when the Power of Love will replace the Love of Power. Then will our world know the blessings of peace.
~William Gladstone
~William Gladstone
Saturday, March 31, 2007
a quote I saw today...
Why do we let the one thing we don't have affect how we feel about all the things we do have?
Carrie Bradshaw
Hmmmmm...this could easily be a world philosophy in a nutshell.
Carrie Bradshaw
Hmmmmm...this could easily be a world philosophy in a nutshell.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
a prayer for today....
Lord, teach me to take gladly the place You have assigned to me and to submit humbly to those over me, that I may do my part to keep the smooth and proper functioning of the body of Christ.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Who really is in charge....
Author: Elisabeth Elliot
Source: A Lamp For My Feet
Scripture: Exodus 16:6
Who is in Charge?
The people of Israel complained loudly against Moses for having brought them out into a wilderness where there was nothing to their liking. "Better to have died in Egypt!" they said.
"It was the Lord who brought you out," Moses told them(Ex 16:6-8). "It is against the Lord that you bring your complaints, and not against us."
When we are angry or offended, let us be careful to note where our real complaint lies. This person who insults me at the office or on the bus, this husband who rides roughshod over my feelings, this insensitive individual who does not understand or appreciate me--is he not one whom God has put in my life for my good? Who, after all, is really in charge?
Let us beware of rebellion against the Lord. Circumstances are of his choosing, because He wants to bless us, to lead us (even through the wilderness) out of Egypt, that is, out of ourselves. Settle the complaint with God, and it will settle other things. Be offended with God, and you will be offended with everyone who crosses your path.
Source: A Lamp For My Feet
Scripture: Exodus 16:6
Who is in Charge?
The people of Israel complained loudly against Moses for having brought them out into a wilderness where there was nothing to their liking. "Better to have died in Egypt!" they said.
"It was the Lord who brought you out," Moses told them(Ex 16:6-8). "It is against the Lord that you bring your complaints, and not against us."
When we are angry or offended, let us be careful to note where our real complaint lies. This person who insults me at the office or on the bus, this husband who rides roughshod over my feelings, this insensitive individual who does not understand or appreciate me--is he not one whom God has put in my life for my good? Who, after all, is really in charge?
Let us beware of rebellion against the Lord. Circumstances are of his choosing, because He wants to bless us, to lead us (even through the wilderness) out of Egypt, that is, out of ourselves. Settle the complaint with God, and it will settle other things. Be offended with God, and you will be offended with everyone who crosses your path.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Thought for today...March 10
"Being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will" (Eph. 1:11).
There is no such thing as chance as far as God is concerned.
What a comfort!!!!!!!
There is no such thing as chance as far as God is concerned.
What a comfort!!!!!!!
Sunday, March 04, 2007
What I learned today...4 March 2007
Yes, I'm back to sharing devotionals. This is not because I can't think for myself, or that I don't have plenty to say! Rather it is because God brought these words across my path at exactly the right time and to exactly show me something I needed to learn. Right now I am waiting: for answers, for direction, for guidance, for a lot, actually. It seems I should continue to wait for now, and this is something I struggle with. Waiting is difficult; however, wait I shall. I will wait and pray and will be confident that the answers will come when God sees fit.
(I did change the personal pronouns from 'we' to 'I'. It isn't to diminish the authors writing but, rather, to make it more of a confessional and prayer.)
Author: Theodore Epp
Source: Strength for the Journey
Scripture Reference Genesis 27:1-17 Psalm 37:34
Impatient to Wait on God
Genesis 27:1-17
One faithless act leads to another. Having schemed to secure the birthright, Jacob deceived his father in order to secure the blessing, which was a vital part of the birthright.
Jacob needed not only the birthright from Esau but also the blessing from his father. One was of no value without the other.
Although Esau was the favorite son of his father, Jacob was the favorite son of his mother.
Isaac was making plans to pass the blessing on to his favorite son, but Rebekah was not about to have Jacob left out--especially since God had indicated the blessing was to be Jacob's. Rebekah devised a counterplot.
Rebekah's sin was that she lacked faith in God's ability. She felt she had to help God accomplish His will.
While the intended goal was legitimate, the means she used to accomplish it were not honoring to God. She thought God must be frustrated concerning His plan and, therefore, needed her help.
Some people say, "The Lord helps those who help themselves." This is not true. The truth is that God helps those who come to the end of themselves.
What I need is patience to wait on God. He is able to do everything He has said He will do, and He will always do it on time.
"Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land" (Ps. 37:34).
(I did change the personal pronouns from 'we' to 'I'. It isn't to diminish the authors writing but, rather, to make it more of a confessional and prayer.)
Author: Theodore Epp
Source: Strength for the Journey
Scripture Reference Genesis 27:1-17 Psalm 37:34
Impatient to Wait on God
Genesis 27:1-17
One faithless act leads to another. Having schemed to secure the birthright, Jacob deceived his father in order to secure the blessing, which was a vital part of the birthright.
Jacob needed not only the birthright from Esau but also the blessing from his father. One was of no value without the other.
Although Esau was the favorite son of his father, Jacob was the favorite son of his mother.
Isaac was making plans to pass the blessing on to his favorite son, but Rebekah was not about to have Jacob left out--especially since God had indicated the blessing was to be Jacob's. Rebekah devised a counterplot.
Rebekah's sin was that she lacked faith in God's ability. She felt she had to help God accomplish His will.
While the intended goal was legitimate, the means she used to accomplish it were not honoring to God. She thought God must be frustrated concerning His plan and, therefore, needed her help.
Some people say, "The Lord helps those who help themselves." This is not true. The truth is that God helps those who come to the end of themselves.
What I need is patience to wait on God. He is able to do everything He has said He will do, and He will always do it on time.
"Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land" (Ps. 37:34).
Monday, February 26, 2007
A birthday poem from an on-line friend...
I got this today from an on-line friend and was really touched by it. I guess I just wanted to save it for posterity...
Shakespeare said: "the play's the thing" and G_G knows that's true,
She's teacher, coach, and cheering squad to teens who love stage too--
At monologue, dialogue, production and direction, this gal's a wiz,
Her mission's motivation, inspiration,to the coming generation in Show-Biz.
Gadget rest? you jest...she burns the midnight oil for classes at FSU,
The Mama of Drama is earning her Masters and teaching full-time, phew!
Happy Birthday G_G!!, glad you made your entrance on earth's stage,
God's writing the script of your life, hallelujah, glory and praise!
So light up the candles, ring up the curtain on the chocolate tarts,
Celebrate Gadget, we, your audience, applaud you, with all our hearts!
Shakespeare said: "the play's the thing" and G_G knows that's true,
She's teacher, coach, and cheering squad to teens who love stage too--
At monologue, dialogue, production and direction, this gal's a wiz,
Her mission's motivation, inspiration,to the coming generation in Show-Biz.
Gadget rest? you jest...she burns the midnight oil for classes at FSU,
The Mama of Drama is earning her Masters and teaching full-time, phew!
Happy Birthday G_G!!, glad you made your entrance on earth's stage,
God's writing the script of your life, hallelujah, glory and praise!
So light up the candles, ring up the curtain on the chocolate tarts,
Celebrate Gadget, we, your audience, applaud you, with all our hearts!
my Birthday...
Another birthday...another year...so much has happened, good and bad.
I sat in my office today during lunch and heard my students in my classroom. I had been "banished" to my office until they told me it was OK to return. They were laughing and having fun. They were decorating my room with crape paper and a balloon. One had gotten me a cake (with purple icing!!!!!) and a package of Twizzlers and a package of Twix. They had purple 'My little pony" plates and a Disney princess balloon. They didn't have matches to light candles (especially a 29!) so they improvised with cell phones that they snapped shut after singing to me and having me "blow out the candles"! Several of them got me cards and one made me a card. One gave me a glass penguin and another won a pink teddy bear for me (it was the first thing she had ever won). It was, without a doubt, some of the sweetest things someone could have done. They gave of themselves completely and without reservation. They remembered to tell me "Happy Birthday" and sent MySpace messages and comments...they gave me hugs. They are amazing...I can't imagine a life without the blessings of these kids
Through an online Message Board I belong to I've received well wishes, e-mails, prayers and even a poem! They have embraced me and accept me for who I am.
By contrast, I almost got 'run over' by someone I used to consider a friend...he didn't even say 'excuse me' when he pushed past...he really has gotten to be a JERK!!! My principal put a card in my box and put a note from Applebee's "good for $5" in the card; however, it was for a March Student of the Month...which had been crossed out and "Feb birthday" had been scrawled in. It felt like something expected...like it was something he "had" to do...
Then there was the FCAT...first day of the testing. Administrating...again. I don't like the FCAT, and I don't like administrating.
Ah well...it is a year full of promise. I am excited to see what God has to reveal to me this year. (is praying for a new job a bad thing?????)
I sat in my office today during lunch and heard my students in my classroom. I had been "banished" to my office until they told me it was OK to return. They were laughing and having fun. They were decorating my room with crape paper and a balloon. One had gotten me a cake (with purple icing!!!!!) and a package of Twizzlers and a package of Twix. They had purple 'My little pony" plates and a Disney princess balloon. They didn't have matches to light candles (especially a 29!) so they improvised with cell phones that they snapped shut after singing to me and having me "blow out the candles"! Several of them got me cards and one made me a card. One gave me a glass penguin and another won a pink teddy bear for me (it was the first thing she had ever won). It was, without a doubt, some of the sweetest things someone could have done. They gave of themselves completely and without reservation. They remembered to tell me "Happy Birthday" and sent MySpace messages and comments...they gave me hugs. They are amazing...I can't imagine a life without the blessings of these kids
Through an online Message Board I belong to I've received well wishes, e-mails, prayers and even a poem! They have embraced me and accept me for who I am.
By contrast, I almost got 'run over' by someone I used to consider a friend...he didn't even say 'excuse me' when he pushed past...he really has gotten to be a JERK!!! My principal put a card in my box and put a note from Applebee's "good for $5" in the card; however, it was for a March Student of the Month...which had been crossed out and "Feb birthday" had been scrawled in. It felt like something expected...like it was something he "had" to do...
Then there was the FCAT...first day of the testing. Administrating...again. I don't like the FCAT, and I don't like administrating.
Ah well...it is a year full of promise. I am excited to see what God has to reveal to me this year. (is praying for a new job a bad thing?????)
Sunday, January 28, 2007
The reason I do my job (aka "I Win")
The weekend was...good; however, it was discouraging. Maybe in a few days I can write about it. In the mean time, here is something one of the students who went this weekend wrote and posted. In the midst of my discouragement, her words reminded me of why I do my job and that success isn't always measured by scores or the accolades of the crowds but in how my students feel about the job they did. Indeed, they won.
3793
I just want to let all of you know how much fun I had this weekend.You are all amazing!!Some of the nicest people I have met in a long time.Even though I am an authentic chorus kid you all welcomed me in and I am glad to have made some new friends.In fact spending this weekend with all of you has made me want to do more stuff with drama.Saturday was the first time I have ever had to act while singing.I thought it would be 10times harder but being comfortable with the people watching really helped.I am proud of all of you for your performance on Friday and I think you deserved way more than what was given.You have converted me from strictly a chorus geek to a chorus/theatre geek.
P.S
how you doin?
The Cast and crew of "The Winner". They are my heros and, no matter what anyone else says, they are Superior Winners in my book
Me with my seniors. They amaze me and "because I knew 'them' I have been changed for good".
The juniors...I am in awe of what they are capable of doing.
The sophomores...though there were but 3 this year; their talent, beauty and potential is incredible.
The freshmen...the future
Am I am blessed with besutiful children, or what???? They may not be mine biologically; yet, they are mine in my heart. Indeed, I have a quiver-full. I wonder, at times, if they know how much they have taught me??? Their capacity to love, encourage, perform, create, teach, learn, share and more knows no bounds.
3793
I just want to let all of you know how much fun I had this weekend.You are all amazing!!Some of the nicest people I have met in a long time.Even though I am an authentic chorus kid you all welcomed me in and I am glad to have made some new friends.In fact spending this weekend with all of you has made me want to do more stuff with drama.Saturday was the first time I have ever had to act while singing.I thought it would be 10times harder but being comfortable with the people watching really helped.I am proud of all of you for your performance on Friday and I think you deserved way more than what was given.You have converted me from strictly a chorus geek to a chorus/theatre geek.
P.S
how you doin?
The Cast and crew of "The Winner". They are my heros and, no matter what anyone else says, they are Superior Winners in my book
Me with my seniors. They amaze me and "because I knew 'them' I have been changed for good".
The juniors...I am in awe of what they are capable of doing.
The sophomores...though there were but 3 this year; their talent, beauty and potential is incredible.
The freshmen...the future
Am I am blessed with besutiful children, or what???? They may not be mine biologically; yet, they are mine in my heart. Indeed, I have a quiver-full. I wonder, at times, if they know how much they have taught me??? Their capacity to love, encourage, perform, create, teach, learn, share and more knows no bounds.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
A recent article by my brother
It is amazing the ways my brother has changed over the last 10 years. If anyone had told him his senior year he would still be in school and would be working on a PhD, I doubt he would have believed it. Ten years ago, John was coming out of a "slacker" phase. High school wasn't the greatest experience for John. Then God got ahold of him. Those 6 words don't really begin to explain his story...which is his to tell...but they do show a lot. John was radically changed. That isn't to say he wasn't already a pretty amazing person, but I am a bit biased. He is one of the most interesting, creative, fun, loving, caring, enthusiastic, radical, goofy people I know (and that is saying a lot!).
John is currently living in Edinburgh, Scotland. Yeah...I'm a little jealous. I would love to be able to live in England or Scotland for at least a year or so! (hmmmmm...God, could you open that door???). I am excited that he is having such amazing experiences. It's hard being this far away from him, though. While things are far from easy for him, the doors do seem to be tumbing open and God is directing his paths.
He recently published an article on John Owen. (John Owen is the Reformer John is focused on in his PhD writings) I have to laugh that John is so captured by the Reformation. In my 'world' the Reformation is a paragraph or so of information...the Reformers weren't exactly know for their advancements in theatre. The reformers closed the theatres...deeming them 'immoral' once again. So...John can have the reformers and I'll take Shakespeare...the Restoration...the Greeks...the Romans...19th Century...you get the idea. I guess we can come together on the Liturgical Drama...lol.
Here's the link to his article...
John is currently living in Edinburgh, Scotland. Yeah...I'm a little jealous. I would love to be able to live in England or Scotland for at least a year or so! (hmmmmm...God, could you open that door???). I am excited that he is having such amazing experiences. It's hard being this far away from him, though. While things are far from easy for him, the doors do seem to be tumbing open and God is directing his paths.
He recently published an article on John Owen. (John Owen is the Reformer John is focused on in his PhD writings) I have to laugh that John is so captured by the Reformation. In my 'world' the Reformation is a paragraph or so of information...the Reformers weren't exactly know for their advancements in theatre. The reformers closed the theatres...deeming them 'immoral' once again. So...John can have the reformers and I'll take Shakespeare...the Restoration...the Greeks...the Romans...19th Century...you get the idea. I guess we can come together on the Liturgical Drama...lol.
Here's the link to his article...
Monday, January 15, 2007
A thought from MLK of MLK
If a man is called to be a streetsweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause and say, here lived a great streetsweeper who did his job well.
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
I don't know if I could say anything more on this one.
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
I don't know if I could say anything more on this one.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
More thoughts from Elizabeth Elliot, this time on Spontaneity
Carlyle wrote of nineteen-to-twenty-five-year-old youths that they had reached "the maximum of detestability." We have been telling ourselves that youth is beautiful and spontaneity one of the most beautiful things about youth. I wonder if spontaneity is not sometimes a euphemism for laziness--an indulgence which Carlyle found in youth. Isn't it much easier not to prepare one's mind and heart, not to premeditate, simply to have things (O, vacuous word!) "unstructured"?
If you leave a thing altogether alone in hopes that it will happen all by itself, the chances are it never will. Who learns to play the piano, wins an election, or loses weight spontaneously?
I have just read Jean Nidetch's book on the Weight Watchers, and while it is obvious that her basic theme (that people get fat because they eat) is hardly a world-shaking discovery, her method is one that made her a millionaire: get people to work at their problems together. Reducing doesn't just happen. It isn't a thing the majority succeed in doing all by themselves.
She doesn't let them make up their own diet as they go along--that's what put the fat on them in the first place. She doesn't suggest that losing weight is best done when you feel like it. She doesn't even say that it works only if you are being "yourself."
In fact, I was reminded throughout the book of how many analogies there are between losing weight and practicing Christianity. There are rules to obey. You will to obey them. Some people insist that the devotional life is somehow purer
or better if it is pursued only when we feel like it. Worship for some is thought to be an "experience" rather than an act. Losing weight is also an experience--there's no doubt about that--in fact, the expression "being born again" occurs in the testimonies of those who have done it. But losing weight most certainly has to begin with an act.
It is an act of the will. You decide to do this and not to do that. You must arrange, prepare, and carefully carry out your plan. The combustion of those daily calories will happen without fail, but only when the conditions are properly set up.
Love is another thing. ''But I want it to be spontaneous," people say. They think that if nothing is happening it is good enough reason for a divorce. "If it isn't spontaneous, it isn't love," they tell us. Where did that idea get started? Do we understand what spontaneity requires?
The kind of love the Bible talks about is action, and it comes from a force and an energy within. That energy is the love of Christ. His love creates the condition of heart (it does not come from nowhere) which enables us to do things: to give a cup of cold water, to go a second mile, to "look for a way of being constructive," as Phillips' translation puts 1 Corinthians 13:4.
"It is, in fact, the one thing that still stands when everything else has fallen."
Christian love is a far cry from a misunderstood spontaneity which is merely unstructured. This love is a very firm and solid thing indeed, requiring will, obedience, action, and an abiding trust in the "Strong Son of God, Immortal Love."
If you leave a thing altogether alone in hopes that it will happen all by itself, the chances are it never will. Who learns to play the piano, wins an election, or loses weight spontaneously?
I have just read Jean Nidetch's book on the Weight Watchers, and while it is obvious that her basic theme (that people get fat because they eat) is hardly a world-shaking discovery, her method is one that made her a millionaire: get people to work at their problems together. Reducing doesn't just happen. It isn't a thing the majority succeed in doing all by themselves.
She doesn't let them make up their own diet as they go along--that's what put the fat on them in the first place. She doesn't suggest that losing weight is best done when you feel like it. She doesn't even say that it works only if you are being "yourself."
In fact, I was reminded throughout the book of how many analogies there are between losing weight and practicing Christianity. There are rules to obey. You will to obey them. Some people insist that the devotional life is somehow purer
or better if it is pursued only when we feel like it. Worship for some is thought to be an "experience" rather than an act. Losing weight is also an experience--there's no doubt about that--in fact, the expression "being born again" occurs in the testimonies of those who have done it. But losing weight most certainly has to begin with an act.
It is an act of the will. You decide to do this and not to do that. You must arrange, prepare, and carefully carry out your plan. The combustion of those daily calories will happen without fail, but only when the conditions are properly set up.
Love is another thing. ''But I want it to be spontaneous," people say. They think that if nothing is happening it is good enough reason for a divorce. "If it isn't spontaneous, it isn't love," they tell us. Where did that idea get started? Do we understand what spontaneity requires?
The kind of love the Bible talks about is action, and it comes from a force and an energy within. That energy is the love of Christ. His love creates the condition of heart (it does not come from nowhere) which enables us to do things: to give a cup of cold water, to go a second mile, to "look for a way of being constructive," as Phillips' translation puts 1 Corinthians 13:4.
"It is, in fact, the one thing that still stands when everything else has fallen."
Christian love is a far cry from a misunderstood spontaneity which is merely unstructured. This love is a very firm and solid thing indeed, requiring will, obedience, action, and an abiding trust in the "Strong Son of God, Immortal Love."
Sunday, December 31, 2006
As I start this new year...
Lets start of with the New Year reaffirming in our hearts these truths of our position with Christ! Believe!
In Christ we are accepted:
*John 1:12 I am God's Child
*John 15:15 I am Christ's friend
*Romans 5:1 I have been justified
*1 Corinthians 6:17 I am united with the Lord and one with Him in spirit
*1 Corinthians 6:20 I have been bought with a price- I belong to God
*1 Corinthians 12:27 I am a member of Christ's body
*Ephesians 1:1 I am a saint
*Ephesians 1:5 I have been adopted as God's child
*Ephesians 2:18 I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit
*Colossians 1:4 I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins
*Colossians 2:10 I am complete in Christ.
In Christ we are Secure:
*Romans 8:1,2 I am free from condemnation
*Romans 8:28 I am asssured that all things work together for good
*Romans 8:31-34 I am free from any condemning charges against me
*Romans 8:35-39 I cannot be separated from the love of God
*2 Corinthians 1:21,22 I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God
*Colossians 3:3 I am hidden with Christ in God
*Philippians 1:6 I am confident that the good work that God has begun in me will be perfected.
*Philippians 3:20 I am a citizen of heaven
*2 Timothy 1:7 I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind
*Hebrews 4:16 I can find grace and mercy in time of need
*1 John 5:18 I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me
In Christ We Are Significant
*Matthew 5:13 I am the salt and light of the earth
*John 15:1,5 I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life
*John 15:16 I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit
*Acts 1:8 I am a personal witness of Christ's
*1 Corinthians 3:16 I am God's temple
*2 Corinthians 5:17-20 I am a minister of reconciliation
*Ephesians 2:6 I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm
*Ephesians 2:10 I am God's workmanship
*Ephesians 3:12 I may approach God with freedom and confidence
*Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me
From the Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson
In Christ we are accepted:
*John 1:12 I am God's Child
*John 15:15 I am Christ's friend
*Romans 5:1 I have been justified
*1 Corinthians 6:17 I am united with the Lord and one with Him in spirit
*1 Corinthians 6:20 I have been bought with a price- I belong to God
*1 Corinthians 12:27 I am a member of Christ's body
*Ephesians 1:1 I am a saint
*Ephesians 1:5 I have been adopted as God's child
*Ephesians 2:18 I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit
*Colossians 1:4 I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins
*Colossians 2:10 I am complete in Christ.
In Christ we are Secure:
*Romans 8:1,2 I am free from condemnation
*Romans 8:28 I am asssured that all things work together for good
*Romans 8:31-34 I am free from any condemning charges against me
*Romans 8:35-39 I cannot be separated from the love of God
*2 Corinthians 1:21,22 I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God
*Colossians 3:3 I am hidden with Christ in God
*Philippians 1:6 I am confident that the good work that God has begun in me will be perfected.
*Philippians 3:20 I am a citizen of heaven
*2 Timothy 1:7 I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind
*Hebrews 4:16 I can find grace and mercy in time of need
*1 John 5:18 I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me
In Christ We Are Significant
*Matthew 5:13 I am the salt and light of the earth
*John 15:1,5 I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life
*John 15:16 I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit
*Acts 1:8 I am a personal witness of Christ's
*1 Corinthians 3:16 I am God's temple
*2 Corinthians 5:17-20 I am a minister of reconciliation
*Ephesians 2:6 I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm
*Ephesians 2:10 I am God's workmanship
*Ephesians 3:12 I may approach God with freedom and confidence
*Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me
From the Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Some thoughts I discovered (and have thought)...
There are several blogs I read...most belong to people I know; however, there are a few I have discovered along the way. The following are some thoughts that I have thought but haven't written down. Paulie Perrette (an actress I really respect) posted these on her blog...I hope she won't mind my borrowing them to share as well!!! (I did slightly alter a few of these so they will fit into my life)
- I realized that as much as I love new or clean tube socks, they're not quite as great as the ones my dog throws around and chews on.
- I realized that some people are just disgusting and perverted and no amount of truth will change them. Best just to surround yourself with love, as always, and ignore the disgusting and perverted.
- Some people have twisted lies told about them, and it will always be recognized in the end. Be careful who and what you listen to. Liars are often charming.
- Drama should be saved only for the screen or stage, at all costs.
- I realized that some girls are hateful and jealous and awful and really hate their sister femmes. That's sad.
- Listening to cheesy songs by yourself is very satisfying and entertaining.
- I-Pod should've told us in the beginning that eventually, the battery would die and there is nothing you can do about it. An old walk-man still runs.
- I realized how happy I am to have real friends instead of only a "top" list on myspace.com. I actually hug mine every chaqnce I get.
- I remember to feed my pets more than I remember to feed myself.
- Women have to stick up for each other and stand up for themselves. My granny used to say, "I don't need no
stinkin' man around no more". Yup, that's when a girl can truly love herself, and then love a GOOD man.
-Clean sheets and pillow cases are something that should be in your thank you prayers at night.
- There is nothing finer than real friends, even when you aren't getting along, they have your back no matter what. And if they don't...? Well, there's your answer.
- Having a husband like mine (I LOVE,LOVE,LOVE YOU!)
and friends like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and pets like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and co-workers like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and students like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and neighbors like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
are all things I say thank you prayers for every night and every morning and every chance I get.
- Changing my life for the better was worth everything, in spite of all the haters, and their hate and lies make them ugly, ugly ugly, people. My loved ones are so, so beautiful.
Girl Smiles In Spite Of It All.
Very grateful for the good things right now.
In spite of it all.
(like my dog who is staring at me grinning right now)
- I realized that as much as I love new or clean tube socks, they're not quite as great as the ones my dog throws around and chews on.
- I realized that some people are just disgusting and perverted and no amount of truth will change them. Best just to surround yourself with love, as always, and ignore the disgusting and perverted.
- Some people have twisted lies told about them, and it will always be recognized in the end. Be careful who and what you listen to. Liars are often charming.
- Drama should be saved only for the screen or stage, at all costs.
- I realized that some girls are hateful and jealous and awful and really hate their sister femmes. That's sad.
- Listening to cheesy songs by yourself is very satisfying and entertaining.
- I-Pod should've told us in the beginning that eventually, the battery would die and there is nothing you can do about it. An old walk-man still runs.
- I realized how happy I am to have real friends instead of only a "top" list on myspace.com. I actually hug mine every chaqnce I get.
- I remember to feed my pets more than I remember to feed myself.
- Women have to stick up for each other and stand up for themselves. My granny used to say, "I don't need no
stinkin' man around no more". Yup, that's when a girl can truly love herself, and then love a GOOD man.
-Clean sheets and pillow cases are something that should be in your thank you prayers at night.
- There is nothing finer than real friends, even when you aren't getting along, they have your back no matter what. And if they don't...? Well, there's your answer.
- Having a husband like mine (I LOVE,LOVE,LOVE YOU!)
and friends like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and pets like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and co-workers like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and students like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
and neighbors like mine (I LOVE YOU!)
are all things I say thank you prayers for every night and every morning and every chance I get.
- Changing my life for the better was worth everything, in spite of all the haters, and their hate and lies make them ugly, ugly ugly, people. My loved ones are so, so beautiful.
Girl Smiles In Spite Of It All.
Very grateful for the good things right now.
In spite of it all.
(like my dog who is staring at me grinning right now)
Monday, December 25, 2006
Being alone on Christmas...is it good or bad???
Christmas is the season to be jolly, but some people want to spend it alone. Christine Aziz investigates
When you open your presents on Christmas morning with friends and family, spare a thought for those who will be spending the day alone. The chances are, as you grimace at yet another of Uncle Tom's dreadful jokes, you'll be wishing you could join them.
A solitary Christmas certainly has its perks. Since she has been living away from home, graphic artist, Marie Edmunds, 28, has spent most of her Christmases alone in her spacious Brighton flat. 'I tell my boyfriend to get lost, then I batten down the hatches and withdraw from the world,' she says with relish.
Marie is not a loner by nature. Outgoing and fun, she's always up for a party, but there is something about Christmas that makes her withdraw. But it's not easy.
'My family and friends just can't understand it. As far as they are concerned Christmas is about being with people you love, but I find it all too much,' she says. 'People try too hard on the day to enjoy themselves and it all gets tense. In my family we have our Nan down, who we hardly see in the year. All she does is pick fault in everyone and my parents get very tense. I just hate all the forced jollity that comes with Christmas. I prefer to avoid it and do my own thing.'
Her boyfriend, John, is now used to Marie's Christmas boycott and has stopped inviting her to share the day with his large and boisterous family. He's finally got the message but the problem is, no one else has. The moment anyone knows you're going to spend Christmas alone they start inviting you to spend it with them, even if they hardly know you. They can't believe you actually want to be alone,' she says.
Marie now lies about her Christmas. 'I tell everyone I am spending it with a friend or my family, depending on whom I am talking to,' she says. 'My family say I am selfish and I once had someone who knew I was lying, threaten to come over and kidnap me and take me to his house for Christmas where his family, all strangers to me, would be present. Now, personally, I can't think of anything more depressing than spending the day with a crowd of strangers. But the thought that he was doing something in the cause of not allowing anyone to be alone at Christmas made him happy. I was tempted to give in - but lied instead and faked a serious case of flu.'
So, what does Marie do on Christmas Day? 'I get up in the morning as late as I want. I open my presents one at a time when I want, not in a big rush. I have dinner either at home or in a restaurant and eat what I want, when I want to. I walk along the beach and watch all the families - most of whom you can tell are not having a good time. I go down to my neighbour downstairs, a brilliant old lady of 90, who also likes to be alone on Christmas Day. I stay about an hour, wish her well, and then leave. I spend the rest of the day either curled up with a good book or watching a video.'
If it sounds like heaven to you then go for it. But before you do:
Ask yourself why you want to be alone on a day that is traditionally a social occasion associated with family gatherings. Are there hidden agendas you haven't dealt with during the year? Are you burnt out? Are you expected to do things on Christmas Day that you don't like doing, but do them anyway to please everyone? Or do you genuinely want to enjoy some time in your own company.
Be prepared for emotional blackmail when you tell loved ones your plans. Reassure them that you are not rejecting them, but it is about your needs at this time. Appease them by fixing to spend a day with them after Christmas.
Unless you really have to, try not to lie about your whereabouts. Explain why you want to be alone and stick to it.
Put a note on your door saying you have gone for a walk, in case someone is sent to pick you up, despite your wishes. (Marie says, don't open the door!)
Make sure you have enough food in for two days, and buy lots of treats.
If during the day, you start to feel miserable and wish you weren't alone, pick up the phone and dial a friend. You have nothing to prove.
When you open your presents on Christmas morning with friends and family, spare a thought for those who will be spending the day alone. The chances are, as you grimace at yet another of Uncle Tom's dreadful jokes, you'll be wishing you could join them.
A solitary Christmas certainly has its perks. Since she has been living away from home, graphic artist, Marie Edmunds, 28, has spent most of her Christmases alone in her spacious Brighton flat. 'I tell my boyfriend to get lost, then I batten down the hatches and withdraw from the world,' she says with relish.
Marie is not a loner by nature. Outgoing and fun, she's always up for a party, but there is something about Christmas that makes her withdraw. But it's not easy.
'My family and friends just can't understand it. As far as they are concerned Christmas is about being with people you love, but I find it all too much,' she says. 'People try too hard on the day to enjoy themselves and it all gets tense. In my family we have our Nan down, who we hardly see in the year. All she does is pick fault in everyone and my parents get very tense. I just hate all the forced jollity that comes with Christmas. I prefer to avoid it and do my own thing.'
Her boyfriend, John, is now used to Marie's Christmas boycott and has stopped inviting her to share the day with his large and boisterous family. He's finally got the message but the problem is, no one else has. The moment anyone knows you're going to spend Christmas alone they start inviting you to spend it with them, even if they hardly know you. They can't believe you actually want to be alone,' she says.
Marie now lies about her Christmas. 'I tell everyone I am spending it with a friend or my family, depending on whom I am talking to,' she says. 'My family say I am selfish and I once had someone who knew I was lying, threaten to come over and kidnap me and take me to his house for Christmas where his family, all strangers to me, would be present. Now, personally, I can't think of anything more depressing than spending the day with a crowd of strangers. But the thought that he was doing something in the cause of not allowing anyone to be alone at Christmas made him happy. I was tempted to give in - but lied instead and faked a serious case of flu.'
So, what does Marie do on Christmas Day? 'I get up in the morning as late as I want. I open my presents one at a time when I want, not in a big rush. I have dinner either at home or in a restaurant and eat what I want, when I want to. I walk along the beach and watch all the families - most of whom you can tell are not having a good time. I go down to my neighbour downstairs, a brilliant old lady of 90, who also likes to be alone on Christmas Day. I stay about an hour, wish her well, and then leave. I spend the rest of the day either curled up with a good book or watching a video.'
If it sounds like heaven to you then go for it. But before you do:
Ask yourself why you want to be alone on a day that is traditionally a social occasion associated with family gatherings. Are there hidden agendas you haven't dealt with during the year? Are you burnt out? Are you expected to do things on Christmas Day that you don't like doing, but do them anyway to please everyone? Or do you genuinely want to enjoy some time in your own company.
Be prepared for emotional blackmail when you tell loved ones your plans. Reassure them that you are not rejecting them, but it is about your needs at this time. Appease them by fixing to spend a day with them after Christmas.
Unless you really have to, try not to lie about your whereabouts. Explain why you want to be alone and stick to it.
Put a note on your door saying you have gone for a walk, in case someone is sent to pick you up, despite your wishes. (Marie says, don't open the door!)
Make sure you have enough food in for two days, and buy lots of treats.
If during the day, you start to feel miserable and wish you weren't alone, pick up the phone and dial a friend. You have nothing to prove.
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