PONDERS AND WONDERS: It is a very cold windy morning here in Mississippi. I am wrapped in my flannel jammies reflecting back on an amazing month. Filled with excitement, exhaustion and an increasing awareness of GOD in the every breath of every day. Sometimes when I write that I look and think you already know that, yet in the quiet of my heart that is a greater place I desire Him to take over. How I long for the day when my mind will be so disciplined to always think of Him first, speak with His voice, have His perfect peace a constant manifestation in my life....aaawwwwwweeeeee
I finished a week long resiliency training this week....it was so cool to watch God at work, bringing hope and healing to so many lives. There were some who were not even sure what had touched them, but everywhere was the fragrance of His presence and the touch of His peace. How I long for the world to know HIM.
I stop every Christmas at think how cool the Father must think Christmas is...to look down from heaven and around the world see the twinkle of lights. It truly is the forerunner of every knee bowing.....no matter what the persons religion, they put out their Christmas decorations.....not knowing that without Christ there would be no season!! Smile ABBA, this is the time we not only are thankful for You sending Your son. ALL THE LIGHTS AND GLITTER ARE IN ANTICIPATION OF HIS RETURN!!
Seems like the time is drawing near, so thankful that you are patient that none will perish, may my life this holiday season be truly JESUS with SKIN on and PEACE within....O how I love Jesus
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving and giving
PONDERS AND WONDERS: As I sit on this quiet Thanksgiving night, reflecting on the past couple of weeks, I again immerse myself in the Awe and Wonder of God. Today as I sat in Mass, celebrating the day with Thanksgiving and realizing the Power of Gratitude. I often diminish the effect that an attitude of gratitude brings to my life. Becoming complacent in my thanksgiving soon leads me to boredom in the blessing and in the trial! BOREDOM ...yep, it results in grumbling and complaining, even if only to God about how the situation should change.
And YET I am reminded that when Paul was talking about doing all things in Christ, that directly followed his ability to BE CONTENT in ALL...much or little, easy or hard.....contentment and gratitude are hand holding partners for sure. As I took holiday blessing boxes to people today, I was struck by Elaina.....she is a woman probably in her 50's although the age of the street would make one think much older, she is homeless here in the Bay....and yet she was contentedly lying on the ground, with a sweater as a pillow. She was amazed that this AM a man woke her up to give her food..."What a great way to start Thanksgiving"
O Lord, that I may be as she, able to rest where ever I am, knowing in your unfailing love you will provide and keep me in the shadow of your wings. It was a day of true celebration....The Lord has provided for me a family and friends that give me BIG SNAPSHOTS of HIS LOVE, He has given me a wonderful purpose of life...JOY...in ALL things.....yes this day Lord I am thankful and ask that each and every moment of the day my attitude of gratitude will slash and spill like a ride in the rapids and I will never become bored by the Blessing of your great LOVE....YOU are the BEST JESUS......love ya
And YET I am reminded that when Paul was talking about doing all things in Christ, that directly followed his ability to BE CONTENT in ALL...much or little, easy or hard.....contentment and gratitude are hand holding partners for sure. As I took holiday blessing boxes to people today, I was struck by Elaina.....she is a woman probably in her 50's although the age of the street would make one think much older, she is homeless here in the Bay....and yet she was contentedly lying on the ground, with a sweater as a pillow. She was amazed that this AM a man woke her up to give her food..."What a great way to start Thanksgiving"
O Lord, that I may be as she, able to rest where ever I am, knowing in your unfailing love you will provide and keep me in the shadow of your wings. It was a day of true celebration....The Lord has provided for me a family and friends that give me BIG SNAPSHOTS of HIS LOVE, He has given me a wonderful purpose of life...JOY...in ALL things.....yes this day Lord I am thankful and ask that each and every moment of the day my attitude of gratitude will slash and spill like a ride in the rapids and I will never become bored by the Blessing of your great LOVE....YOU are the BEST JESUS......love ya
Monday, November 3, 2008
Tippy Toes and Wonder
PONDERS AND WONDERS: The past few weeks have been so hectic. Finally this AM after a weekend of sharing Katrina news and fund raising, I am sitting quietly reflecting with amazement what I experienced yesterday in Mass.
I celebrated at St. John the Baptist in Ottsville, PA. The church has been a supporter of Katrina efforts, sending volunteers, praying and financially supporting the recovery. I was asked to speak at 3 Masses, then share at a fund raising tea and silent auction. All of that was great, but the experience I take home is the tippy toed little girl and how I need to get on my toes!
During the 10:30AM Mass, Father Tony brought the children starting their first communion journey up to circle the altar during the consecration. As forty or so children eagerly ran up I witnessed their exuberance and joy, faces lit up as they had the privilege to see first hand what the priest was doing.
Standing beside Father Tony was a wide blue eyed, blonde haired little girl. Being to short to see over the top of the altar, she stood on her tippy toes. She spent the next 15 minutes watching intently with wonder as the consecration process unfolded before her. Never taking her eyes off the altar, and never standing back down on her fee.
WOWOWOWOWOW....that is what God is calling me to.....that wide eyed, wonder and awe of WHO HE IS....captivated by His love, silenced by His presence and filled with Joy at the revelation of Him. I will never be the same. As tears streamed down my face I asked the Lord to renew my ability to come to Him as a little child. Full of trust and awe, and standing on my tippy toes never tiring of His beauty.
What a wonderful day...thank you Jesus, all I can say is I love you so much....Sparkle
I celebrated at St. John the Baptist in Ottsville, PA. The church has been a supporter of Katrina efforts, sending volunteers, praying and financially supporting the recovery. I was asked to speak at 3 Masses, then share at a fund raising tea and silent auction. All of that was great, but the experience I take home is the tippy toed little girl and how I need to get on my toes!
During the 10:30AM Mass, Father Tony brought the children starting their first communion journey up to circle the altar during the consecration. As forty or so children eagerly ran up I witnessed their exuberance and joy, faces lit up as they had the privilege to see first hand what the priest was doing.
Standing beside Father Tony was a wide blue eyed, blonde haired little girl. Being to short to see over the top of the altar, she stood on her tippy toes. She spent the next 15 minutes watching intently with wonder as the consecration process unfolded before her. Never taking her eyes off the altar, and never standing back down on her fee.
WOWOWOWOWOW....that is what God is calling me to.....that wide eyed, wonder and awe of WHO HE IS....captivated by His love, silenced by His presence and filled with Joy at the revelation of Him. I will never be the same. As tears streamed down my face I asked the Lord to renew my ability to come to Him as a little child. Full of trust and awe, and standing on my tippy toes never tiring of His beauty.
What a wonderful day...thank you Jesus, all I can say is I love you so much....Sparkle
Monday, October 20, 2008
He NEVER Sleeps
PONDERS AND WONDERS: Last night, I curled up under my new down comforter (thanks Mary Kay)with the screen door open (thanks Dad) as the cool air gently refreshed the bedroom. Prince was sleeping as always at my side....aaahhh sweet sleep in Jesus.
2:30 AM Prince began barking furiously, as I emerged from my sleep, he was standing near the screen "pitching a fit", as I looked outside I saw the culprit....a cat had jumped the fence!
As I snuggled back under the covers, I realized how like God this experience is. I settle in, snuggled up in the safety and security of His love and protection. Yet He never sleeps, watching and protecting me, as I rest in peace.
Simple truths, simple faith and unreasonable love and devotion...what is man that you are mindful of him???? HIS BELOVED.....
Good Night Lord!!
2:30 AM Prince began barking furiously, as I emerged from my sleep, he was standing near the screen "pitching a fit", as I looked outside I saw the culprit....a cat had jumped the fence!
As I snuggled back under the covers, I realized how like God this experience is. I settle in, snuggled up in the safety and security of His love and protection. Yet He never sleeps, watching and protecting me, as I rest in peace.
Simple truths, simple faith and unreasonable love and devotion...what is man that you are mindful of him???? HIS BELOVED.....
Good Night Lord!!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Being -Doing-Belonging
PONDERS AND WONDERS: Father had a wonderful message today about giving to God what is God's. I realize how I may gripe about what belongs to Cesear to Cesear, but when you really ponder that what belongs to God you give Him...it requires a shift in the thinking....
SINCE ALL IS HIS....time, talent and treasure...ALL OF IT>....so easy to pay the tithe, give Him the 10%, did my duty and then I am done! Right...WRONG....the heart of this scripture is beyond the tithe....and not just the tithe of money, but what about time...2.4 hours/day belong to HIM...not DOING FOR HIM...actually belong to HIM...and what about my talents and gifts....using them FOR HIM....NOPE they belong to HIM...to do WHAT HE WILLS....how easy I can deceive myself that it is ALL His because I am doing FOR HIM....and yet does it really belong to Him OR is that sense of good because I am doing and controlling my giving and actions.
Seems I circle back to the destruction of my being,,,,the Human Doing....instead of BEING...I can easily cloud the issue with urgencies and responsibilities...yet BELONGING TO HIM...ALL
The sense of belonging not because of what I do, but because of who WE ARE...HIM and ME....there for each other, to talk, to laugh, to figure out what's next...to BE. I guess it boils down to the LOVE factor with TOTAL ABANDONMENT to HIM.
Lord I have so far to go, thank you for drawing me again to a place of greater surrender, please help me live beyond the tithe. Let it be a 100% of my life, all my being belonging without resistance to you....
SINCE ALL IS HIS....time, talent and treasure...ALL OF IT>....so easy to pay the tithe, give Him the 10%, did my duty and then I am done! Right...WRONG....the heart of this scripture is beyond the tithe....and not just the tithe of money, but what about time...2.4 hours/day belong to HIM...not DOING FOR HIM...actually belong to HIM...and what about my talents and gifts....using them FOR HIM....NOPE they belong to HIM...to do WHAT HE WILLS....how easy I can deceive myself that it is ALL His because I am doing FOR HIM....and yet does it really belong to Him OR is that sense of good because I am doing and controlling my giving and actions.
Seems I circle back to the destruction of my being,,,,the Human Doing....instead of BEING...I can easily cloud the issue with urgencies and responsibilities...yet BELONGING TO HIM...ALL
The sense of belonging not because of what I do, but because of who WE ARE...HIM and ME....there for each other, to talk, to laugh, to figure out what's next...to BE. I guess it boils down to the LOVE factor with TOTAL ABANDONMENT to HIM.
Lord I have so far to go, thank you for drawing me again to a place of greater surrender, please help me live beyond the tithe. Let it be a 100% of my life, all my being belonging without resistance to you....
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Hurricane Wall Street
PONDERS AND WONDERS: In the midst of a very busy week here in the Bay, my unceasing prayer has been for those affected by the Financial Hurricane that has ripped through our nation from coast to coast. I have witnessed on the news, the glazed eyes, the fear, hand wrenching and hair pulling that results from the deepest sense of helplessness and fear....what I have not seen or heard is the church.
What about the incredible philanthropists that have lost millions and billions of dollars? The impact of that will deeply affect the care of the poor and helpless. God has given so many in this nation a heart whether it is from faith perspective or not, their hearts are moved to help others. And then, what about those who just don't know HIM yet???
God has been speaking to me over the past five years about the plight of the soul of the wealthy. Scripture says it is like a camel getting through the eye of a needle for a rich man to make his way to the Kingdom. So in this moment, when those who have trusted in mammon, those who have dedicated their lives in pursuit of money, those who have exploited others from greed are most vulnerable....WE HAVE THE ANSWER.....there will be no FEMA, or Red Cross...although many view the government 700 billion rescue as the bailout, the answer if not Uncle Sam but Jesus Christ.
Why is it that when it comes to the wealthy conversations change from compassion to criticism? Why when people feel God calling them to minister to the wealthy, do organizations doubt, since the way and place they live to be in proximity may be a standard that is "above average" ? Why when over 40,000 wealthy people have lost their jobs, will not be able to pay their rent, all their assets which were paper have burned in the market crash do we not cry out for help for them?
Again God has given the church, the body of Christ an opportunity to be the rescuers...just like after Katrina, the witness is had it not been for the church we would have never made it.....only this response is scary!! Organizations whose giving is down 47% can't afford to pay thousand dollar mortgages to save houses, or pay utilities, or credit card bills....and the bigger question is would we??? Would we be able to get past our judgement of a lifestyle and extend the hand of provision??
Lord please give us wisdom, that we your people may be the peace and love to those victims of this storm. Your word says perfect love casts out fear.....the market and the world is spiraling in fear....may we your people be LOUD LOVE....HELP US JESUS HELP US HELP THOSE YOU LOVE AND DESIRE!!!!!!!
Please join me as we pray for our nation that we would not miss this special opportunity to be Jesus to a people that may have not been aware of their needs so clearly until now!
What about the incredible philanthropists that have lost millions and billions of dollars? The impact of that will deeply affect the care of the poor and helpless. God has given so many in this nation a heart whether it is from faith perspective or not, their hearts are moved to help others. And then, what about those who just don't know HIM yet???
God has been speaking to me over the past five years about the plight of the soul of the wealthy. Scripture says it is like a camel getting through the eye of a needle for a rich man to make his way to the Kingdom. So in this moment, when those who have trusted in mammon, those who have dedicated their lives in pursuit of money, those who have exploited others from greed are most vulnerable....WE HAVE THE ANSWER.....there will be no FEMA, or Red Cross...although many view the government 700 billion rescue as the bailout, the answer if not Uncle Sam but Jesus Christ.
Why is it that when it comes to the wealthy conversations change from compassion to criticism? Why when people feel God calling them to minister to the wealthy, do organizations doubt, since the way and place they live to be in proximity may be a standard that is "above average" ? Why when over 40,000 wealthy people have lost their jobs, will not be able to pay their rent, all their assets which were paper have burned in the market crash do we not cry out for help for them?
Again God has given the church, the body of Christ an opportunity to be the rescuers...just like after Katrina, the witness is had it not been for the church we would have never made it.....only this response is scary!! Organizations whose giving is down 47% can't afford to pay thousand dollar mortgages to save houses, or pay utilities, or credit card bills....and the bigger question is would we??? Would we be able to get past our judgement of a lifestyle and extend the hand of provision??
Lord please give us wisdom, that we your people may be the peace and love to those victims of this storm. Your word says perfect love casts out fear.....the market and the world is spiraling in fear....may we your people be LOUD LOVE....HELP US JESUS HELP US HELP THOSE YOU LOVE AND DESIRE!!!!!!!
Please join me as we pray for our nation that we would not miss this special opportunity to be Jesus to a people that may have not been aware of their needs so clearly until now!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Understudy
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: Years ago in high school I was in a drama group. I loved it, we did touring theatre in elementary schools. Using familiar stories we would use music and actions to make them more real to the students. As our group grew, it was important that each main character had an understudy. In the event the lead person could not be in the drama, the understudy immediately took the role. They had to know every movement, every line, every part of the character's actions, and thoughts to represent the main actor.
Well this week my discipline has been study. So at first I was thinking, wow Lord, I am traveling this week, so much to do, I don't think I have time to sit and study with dictionaries, commentaries etc. Then that wonderful still quiet voice said, this study is of ME. You will be my understudy, watch me, intently begin to know all of my character, how I am....then begin to live as my understudy.
I have realized the importance of being the understudy and not a stand in....a stand in, has a minor role, just makes a quick appearance then they are done. An understudy learns EVERYTHING....and is able to fill the role at any time, any place with complete confidence that they have studied and are approved to take the role. WOW what a week. As I have looked at creation, devastation, broken hearts, and those filled with hope I realize this disicpline will take years!
His ways are not mine, His thoughts are not mine, and I have been a stand in for years....but now a deeper calling. A time to truly be Jesus with skin on, to have His heart, feel His pain, reach out with His love and be all about the Kingdom! Lord you are the greatest, biggest, most amazing and incredible dramatic person ever living.....so I surrender the stand in role...I desire to be Your understudy, teach me your ways O God and draw me closer to You that I may see every move and intent of Your heart, no matter how small, that I will learn and BE.....
Well this week my discipline has been study. So at first I was thinking, wow Lord, I am traveling this week, so much to do, I don't think I have time to sit and study with dictionaries, commentaries etc. Then that wonderful still quiet voice said, this study is of ME. You will be my understudy, watch me, intently begin to know all of my character, how I am....then begin to live as my understudy.
I have realized the importance of being the understudy and not a stand in....a stand in, has a minor role, just makes a quick appearance then they are done. An understudy learns EVERYTHING....and is able to fill the role at any time, any place with complete confidence that they have studied and are approved to take the role. WOW what a week. As I have looked at creation, devastation, broken hearts, and those filled with hope I realize this disicpline will take years!
His ways are not mine, His thoughts are not mine, and I have been a stand in for years....but now a deeper calling. A time to truly be Jesus with skin on, to have His heart, feel His pain, reach out with His love and be all about the Kingdom! Lord you are the greatest, biggest, most amazing and incredible dramatic person ever living.....so I surrender the stand in role...I desire to be Your understudy, teach me your ways O God and draw me closer to You that I may see every move and intent of Your heart, no matter how small, that I will learn and BE.....
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Cycle of Love
This AM as I prepare to leave for Cameron Parish Louisiana I have "Flashbacks". Although it has only been three years, somedays it seems like forever, today like yesterday that Bonnie and I began our service to God in Bay St. Louis, MS. Helping to set up distribution on the ballfield, beginning the process of LOVE.
Mary Kay has a crystallite from a Monarch butterfly on her porch. Bay St Louis is on the migratory path for these beautiful butterflies. The crystallite is a beautiful shade of green and safely inside the transformation is happening. Out of the site of others. The similarities with the cycle of love. The transformation of God in our hearts is rarely evident to others, they see the butterfly floating gracefully in the wind, what cares could it have? Yet, it spent the time needed to be changed.
So it is here in Bay St Louis. During the past three years, we have been tucked away as a community and God has been working and changing hearts and lives. The evidence today as a truck filled with what could be considered the widow's mite, leaves for Cameron Louisiana. People have given from their own plate to feed others, so many want to go and give what they received. Not material, but the love..."It was the hugs, tears, and laughter that helped me make it through, I know how important that is for others now."
As I ponder all the models of ministry.....it all seems to come back to Jesus saying...Love the Lord your God and love your neighbor as yourself. Why I ponder do I fall pray to complicate that commandment? It is God's incredible extravagant love that has changed my life, given me wings to fly and a journey to take. Yet, I still find myself challenged to say LOVE IS ENOUGH. I exist only to LOVE and fulfill His commands. SO SIMPLE.....His love is never changing, always forgiving and free flowing.
Today Lord let me love you and share your incredible expansive love with a people brokenhearted and in pain ...that Your great love would cast out fears and Your peace would be a gift they would open today. And for me life let me again be reminded....LOVE IS ALWAYS ENOUGH!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Meditations of my heart
The week has been overshadowed again by a hurricane, this time hurricane Wall Street. This kind of storm is large covering the 3000 miles of America and is far reaching over the entire globe. The fear, rumors, and drama are all part of the movement of the storm. Add to that the feeder bands of a roller coaster DOW, banks and mortgage companies acting like escalators and the general public feeling confused and disoriented. YEP...the makings of a bad category 4 storm.
As I pondered the meaning of meditation, I have realized that for me: it is the pondering of the holy, in the presence of His holiness to present holiness to ordinary life. If that is truly to be accomplished, then the meditations of my heart must include what is pure and holy....HIM. Easy to say that I will meditate on Him, or His word or His character, but as I am waiting for the quiet, I miss the moment of meditation.
I think that the process of meditation, although significant time needs to be spend in the ponder and quiet....there is a fragment of my daily life and breath that needs to be His presence...ALL day long, every situation, every reaction ...MY EVERYTHING!! Oh that it would be pleasing to Him. That within every part of my being is the place of pleasure for Him, focused on Him, inquiring of Him. From that place of His presence the world would then see His character, love and be drawn to Him personally.
So today Lord, I desire to keep you in the forefront of my existence. So when the storms blow, whether they natural or man made, that all my thoughts, actions, deeds and desires would be in Your will. That you will direct and keep me and that all men would know that You alone are God. Not only would I trust you, but that Your holiness and truth would be living water to all You cross in my path.
As I pondered the meaning of meditation, I have realized that for me: it is the pondering of the holy, in the presence of His holiness to present holiness to ordinary life. If that is truly to be accomplished, then the meditations of my heart must include what is pure and holy....HIM. Easy to say that I will meditate on Him, or His word or His character, but as I am waiting for the quiet, I miss the moment of meditation.
I think that the process of meditation, although significant time needs to be spend in the ponder and quiet....there is a fragment of my daily life and breath that needs to be His presence...ALL day long, every situation, every reaction ...MY EVERYTHING!! Oh that it would be pleasing to Him. That within every part of my being is the place of pleasure for Him, focused on Him, inquiring of Him. From that place of His presence the world would then see His character, love and be drawn to Him personally.
So today Lord, I desire to keep you in the forefront of my existence. So when the storms blow, whether they natural or man made, that all my thoughts, actions, deeds and desires would be in Your will. That you will direct and keep me and that all men would know that You alone are God. Not only would I trust you, but that Your holiness and truth would be living water to all You cross in my path.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Light Load
"It is the mystery that the heart, which is the center of our being, is transfomed by God into His own heart, a heart large enough to embrace the entire universe. Through prayer we can carry in our heart all human pain and sorrow, all conflicts and agonies, all torture and war, all hunger, loneliness and misery, not because of some great psychological or emotional capacity, but because God's heart has become one with ours. Here we catch sight of the meaning of Jesus words, Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Yes my Yoke is easy and my burden light. Matthew 11:29-30. Jesus invites us to accept His burden, which the burden of the wohole world, a burden that includes human suffering in all times and places. BUT THIS DIVINE BURDEN IS LIGHT, AND WE CAN CARRY IT WHEN OUR HEART HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO THE GENTLE AND HUMBLE HEART OF OUR LORD." Henri NouwenToday I reflect back on the roller coaster ride of the past couple weeks. How wonderful it would be to turn on my computer and not hear the crash of a weather alert! Seems simple but a daily reminder that this time of the year brings suffering. As the reports come out of Galveston and Houston the sufferings, pain and sorrow of humanity is the burden to CARRY WITH HIM.
Many times in my life I can see where I have been SO BURDENED....and yet today I see again, His yoke is easy and light....the only way that is possible is when my heart has become truly and totally HIS. Surrendering my heart fresh and new when the burdens come will be the discipline of my growth in intercession. Often I want to fix it, carry something, or most times DO something.... yet again I am reminded that if WE, He and I carry it together it will be light.
As I look at the picture of the people enjoying the art class sponsored by a grant to St Rose, you will see a Light Load....however, some have no home, some have buried their children, others face serious terminal illness.....and yet what a picture to remind me HIS yoke is easy and burden is light.
Today as I walk among a people who have carried heavy burdens and are reminded of them as they watch the TV reports from Ike, may I encourage their hearts to expand, to mold and surrender to be a Bigger God heart so that we can ALL walk with Lighter Loads.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Come on in.....
"If I could have a gentle "Interiority"- a heart of flesh and not of stone, a room with some spots on which one might walk barefooted-then God and my fellow humans could meet each other there. Then the center of my heart can become the place where God can hear the prayer for my neighbors and embrace them with His love." Henri Nouwen
Truly a look at intercession from within. How comfortable is the interior of my heart? Is it a place where the weary can come and find rest for their soul? Is it a place filled with Joy that will be strength for those in need? Is it a place where Jesus can sit down and relax from His day, a place where we can talk about our friends, and share what they need, where I am in agreement with Him?
WOW this will be a long week or two as this heart of mine becomes the legal and desired dwelling place of God, and from this place we will share and invite others to come and experience His great love, mercy and peace. So often I have lots of excuses why we should meet at some other house, really Lord let's just go to your place, you don't have to clean up for company....
Never thought of my heart as the gathering place....how unique, what a privilege and what a great way to change my prayer life. love ya Jesus
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Shared Agony
I woke this AM, with a call from my dear friend Kathy. We talked about everything and more :0 ) Times with Kathy are like that, she has the wonderful ability to draw out of my heart the things I need to verbally process, then help me to see them. She asked me how I was doing, and I burst into tears.....this is such a hard season. The pain, fear and anxiety of these people I now call my own, breaking my heart as I listen to their stories, hold and cherish tears, and provide a place in my arms for them to rest.....and at the end of the day....I am tired. Sometimes the tears come, healing and refreshing to release the pent up emotion of the day.
Yet the other side of this journey, is the incredible unbelievable reality that God in His infinite wisdom has given me an opportunity to walk with Him among these people at this time. I tremble with awe that He would open the door for me to walk with Him....and until today, not understanding the awe and agony that are walking hand in hand in my heart. Then Kathy shared these verses: Matthew 26:38-40 "Then He said to them. "My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch with me." He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying "My Father, if it is possible let this cup pass from me, yet not as I will, but as you will">
The last two weeks my discipline has been petition.....and I have been learning again to a deeper level the "thine will not mine"....Today, Kathy shared with me, the place of sharing the agony of Gethsemane, His soul is sorrowful, even to death, keep watch with me....that is what this season is....HE is sorrowful about all the pain and agony the people are suffering.....My choice to remain with HIM, KEEP watch WITH HIM.....not turn my head from the pain and suffering of others, but to remain with HIM....I can't articulate the deepest truth of my soul this night....this I know
I WANT TO STAY AWAKE....STAY WITH HIM....WATCH WITH HIM....AND BE WITH HIM AS HE BRINGS HIS LOVE AND COMFORT TO HIS PEOPLE... O my dear sweet Jesus, give me grace, courage and strength.
Yet the other side of this journey, is the incredible unbelievable reality that God in His infinite wisdom has given me an opportunity to walk with Him among these people at this time. I tremble with awe that He would open the door for me to walk with Him....and until today, not understanding the awe and agony that are walking hand in hand in my heart. Then Kathy shared these verses: Matthew 26:38-40 "Then He said to them. "My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch with me." He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying "My Father, if it is possible let this cup pass from me, yet not as I will, but as you will">
The last two weeks my discipline has been petition.....and I have been learning again to a deeper level the "thine will not mine"....Today, Kathy shared with me, the place of sharing the agony of Gethsemane, His soul is sorrowful, even to death, keep watch with me....that is what this season is....HE is sorrowful about all the pain and agony the people are suffering.....My choice to remain with HIM, KEEP watch WITH HIM.....not turn my head from the pain and suffering of others, but to remain with HIM....I can't articulate the deepest truth of my soul this night....this I know
I WANT TO STAY AWAKE....STAY WITH HIM....WATCH WITH HIM....AND BE WITH HIM AS HE BRINGS HIS LOVE AND COMFORT TO HIS PEOPLE... O my dear sweet Jesus, give me grace, courage and strength.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Weapons of Warfare
Today I am reminded that the weapons of warfare are not of this world 2 Corinthians 10:3. As we clean up from Gustav and Ike is making noise and threats, I find so many people anxious, fearful and full of worry. People calling today crying, "I can't take this anymore, if I do not have my sleeping pill I can't sleep, my mind is racing all the time."
This is the enemy of our soul trying to distract us from the true purpose of God. Jesus Christ promised us His Peace....it is a gift...He said MY PEACE I GIVE TO YOU.....well today I think that the warfare we are against is the destruction of our ability to live in the midst of storms and trials in HIS PEACE. It is a gift we need to open and receive. Often I find myself pondering the circumstance, creating drama in my mind from the storm and failing to unwrap the perfect PEACE of Christ.
A friend recently gave me a T shirt with what I believe will become my life motto...
"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning to dance in the rain"
I choose today to use the weapons NOT of this world...Peace, Love, Joy, and may these weapons bring strength to my beloved friends and family here on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.
Start the praising let's start dancing....Love you Jesus
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Misty WIndows
Today as I was leaving the apartment for the SOAR office, the windows in the door were covered with salt spray from Gustav's knocking over the weekend. I began to ponder how similar the mist effect is in my own life.
When I go through a challenge or trial, the wind blows, trees fall and when the storm is over I tend to look through the misted windows of the experience. I realize today, if I do not clean off the debris from the last experience, seek healing for the pain, forgive and be forgiven then I will always have a distorted view of what is coming.
The biggest lesson learned is that the mist occludes the goodness of God. His goodness in all situations and His love are His fingerprints. Often I am able to reflect that when the trial or challenge has ended positively, but when there is deep disappointment, pain or injury, then the mist becomes thicker.
Just like my windows, the sooner I clean off the mist, the easirer. If not done immediately, then it takes a lot more scrubbing and cleaner to get that Windex Shine :)
Today Lord, let the Holy Spirit be the Windex of my soul, cleaning up the past, present and even putting an no stick cover for the future. You are God, You are Love and You are Good....thank you for the storm and the clean up....love di
When I go through a challenge or trial, the wind blows, trees fall and when the storm is over I tend to look through the misted windows of the experience. I realize today, if I do not clean off the debris from the last experience, seek healing for the pain, forgive and be forgiven then I will always have a distorted view of what is coming.
The biggest lesson learned is that the mist occludes the goodness of God. His goodness in all situations and His love are His fingerprints. Often I am able to reflect that when the trial or challenge has ended positively, but when there is deep disappointment, pain or injury, then the mist becomes thicker.
Just like my windows, the sooner I clean off the mist, the easirer. If not done immediately, then it takes a lot more scrubbing and cleaner to get that Windex Shine :)
Today Lord, let the Holy Spirit be the Windex of my soul, cleaning up the past, present and even putting an no stick cover for the future. You are God, You are Love and You are Good....thank you for the storm and the clean up....love di
Saturday, August 30, 2008
His Will
Hurricane Gustav is barreling into the Gulf of Mexico tonite, threatening to make a grand slam hit on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Louisiana. It seems like moment by moment the storm becomes stronger, tighter and nastier...my point? Well He who says to the wind "Peace be Still" appears to not be talking to the wind, however He is sure talking to ME :) He has chosen it seems to calm the child and let the storm run wild (scott krippane) ....
The challenge is "Do I REALLY want His perfect will?" Especially if it means that HE is going to hold me in the middle of this storm instead of calming the storm. The junior church answer is YES, but when I look at the vacant stares, the anxiety in the faces of elderly couples who are "to tired to do this again", little children clutching their parents skirts.....I realize that I am not so eager to say YES.
So to carry the cross, desire what He desires, to seek Him first , all requires death....that is then the only way to REAL LIFE....so basic, so fundamental and at times incredibly challenging....through it all...He says I AM.....
Dear Lord, give us the strength and courage to not only accept Your will, but to desire Your will and to carry the cross daily. Keep Your watch care over all of Hancock County....grant us grace and peace to accept and walk in Your perfect will.....love you
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Kinfolk
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: God is kinfolk. Kinfolk is a word common here in the south, everyone is related it seems in the Bay, one way or another. As I read and studied the discipline of petition this AM, I was moved to write the Lord's prayer in more "kinfolk" terms....
Dear Daddy,
You are so holy, awesome and wonderful. Sitting in perfection and holiness, seated in the heavens and ruling the earth.
I want Your kingdom here on earth as in heaven. May this earth be the place where supreme love rules, where mercy not judgement controls my thoughts, words and deeds.
May Your perfect and Holy will be always my desire, to be obedient and seek what pleases you be the captains wheel to guide me.
Today Daddy please give me what I need, the elements of growth. Food for my spirit, soul and body. Let me collect all you give me this day for my nourishment and be filled with thanksgiving for ALL things.
Oh Father I am sorry for the thoughts, words and deeds that have hurt and offended You and others. Please forgive me and grant me the grace to be the vessel of the same magnitude of forgiveness into the lives of each one who may have hurt me or those I love, through their own thoughts, words and deeds.
Thank you for making a clear path for me to walk, that I may follow You in trust knowing You do not lead me to temptation. When even the smallest embryo of evil is conceived in my thoughts, words and deeds You set me free.
Indeed Yours alone is the kingdom, the true demonstration of the power of love, the glory of WHO You are all belongs to You forever.
I belong to You forever through all the days past, today and eternity....so be it that my hand be in Yours, my heart in Yours and my life in Yours...AMEN.
Dear Daddy,
You are so holy, awesome and wonderful. Sitting in perfection and holiness, seated in the heavens and ruling the earth.
I want Your kingdom here on earth as in heaven. May this earth be the place where supreme love rules, where mercy not judgement controls my thoughts, words and deeds.
May Your perfect and Holy will be always my desire, to be obedient and seek what pleases you be the captains wheel to guide me.
Today Daddy please give me what I need, the elements of growth. Food for my spirit, soul and body. Let me collect all you give me this day for my nourishment and be filled with thanksgiving for ALL things.
Oh Father I am sorry for the thoughts, words and deeds that have hurt and offended You and others. Please forgive me and grant me the grace to be the vessel of the same magnitude of forgiveness into the lives of each one who may have hurt me or those I love, through their own thoughts, words and deeds.
Thank you for making a clear path for me to walk, that I may follow You in trust knowing You do not lead me to temptation. When even the smallest embryo of evil is conceived in my thoughts, words and deeds You set me free.
Indeed Yours alone is the kingdom, the true demonstration of the power of love, the glory of WHO You are all belongs to You forever.
I belong to You forever through all the days past, today and eternity....so be it that my hand be in Yours, my heart in Yours and my life in Yours...AMEN.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The courage of Elisha
"Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven, and Elisha....saw him no more." 2 Kings 2 11-12
Today my dear friend Kathy, a wonderful friend and powerful intercessor sent me a devotional to share with my "new believer friends from Houston"....I think it is a word for ALL of us....
"It is not wrong for you to depend you your "Elijah" for as long as God gives him to you. But remember that the time will come when he must leave and will no longer be your guide and your leader, because God does not intend for him to stay. Even the thought of that causes you t0 say "I cannot continue without my "Elijah". Yet God says you must continue".
The following examples of the Jordan, Jericho and Bethel represent the times when we are alone. Where what we have learned is now put to the test...the experience lies before us....to cross over the river (Jordan), to do great things not waiting for some else to do them for us (Jericho) and Bethel where you must rely on God's wisdom, when you are at the end of your own.
Stand true to God and He will bring out HIS truth in a way that will make your life an expression of worship. Put into practice what you learned while with your "Elijah", use his mantle and pray...Make a determination to trust in God and do not even look for Elijah anymore.
WOW as I re-read this over and over....for many years I have said that ministry is the Elijah and Elisha concept....we are mentored by an "Elijah" we become an "Elisha"....then down the road, we become "Elijah" to another and they become "Elisha".....the strength of this model is the ongoing process of applying the teaching and training from others, taking the truth, living it and becoming the example of truth to others.
Kathy felt this was important to encourage those who experienced GOD in such deep ways in Houston, and now they may feel alone, or they "can't" and the TRUTH is
STAND TRUE TO GOD AND HE WILL BRING OUT HIS TRUTH IN A WAY THAT WILL MAKE YOUR LIFE AN EXPRESSION OF WORSHIP...PUT INTO PRACTICE WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED...TAKE THE MANTLE AND PRAY....
May all of us take the wisdom and examples of our "Elijah's" and practice what we have learned, take the mantle believing in the miracles and pray unceasingly....
Friday, August 22, 2008
Jammie Days
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: Today was a wonderful day :) I had a jammie day with Jesus. A friend stopped by early and was asking "What is a jammie day with Jesus?" I smiled you know the kind where you know the secret, and answered, when I stay in my jammies, resting, worshipping, praying and just enjoying the breath of life He has given me.
As I pondered the conversation, I began wondering what does a jammie day with Jesus look like to HIM? Then I remembered Zephaniah 3 :17 "The Lord your God is in your midst, he is mighty to save you. He will rejoice over you with singing and quiet you with his love." WOW...so jammie days are Jesus, singing over me, calming my heart, being in the midst of ALL my life.
I need to stop and ponder more often heaven's side of my relationship with Jesus. There are times when I fail to remember that the cross and salvation are the cause of His joyous singing and being in the midst of mine......Almighty God, Eternal yet in the natural, taking time with me to sing and rejoice......it will never make sense, yet will always be TRUTH.....love ya Jesus thanks for an awesome day!!
As I pondered the conversation, I began wondering what does a jammie day with Jesus look like to HIM? Then I remembered Zephaniah 3 :17 "The Lord your God is in your midst, he is mighty to save you. He will rejoice over you with singing and quiet you with his love." WOW...so jammie days are Jesus, singing over me, calming my heart, being in the midst of ALL my life.
I need to stop and ponder more often heaven's side of my relationship with Jesus. There are times when I fail to remember that the cross and salvation are the cause of His joyous singing and being in the midst of mine......Almighty God, Eternal yet in the natural, taking time with me to sing and rejoice......it will never make sense, yet will always be TRUTH.....love ya Jesus thanks for an awesome day!!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Confession the vehicle of Worship
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: PSALM 32...Vs. 9-11 "Don't be ornery like a horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to stay on track. God defiers are always in trouble, God affirmers find themselves loved every time they turn around. Celebrate God, Sing together-Everyone...ALL YOU HONEST HEARTS, RAISE THE ROOF." The Message Something to chew on....for a LONG WHILE....
So as I start a new week, and briefly skim over the past couple of months, I see this wonderful pattern.....from Being Authentic, Addressing God, Silence and Adoration these disciplines for what....SO THAT I MAY KNOW HIM AND BE KNOWN....now we hit the confession week....so where does God begin....don't be ornery .....like a horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to stay on track....I am acutely aware of all the bits and bridles that hang in the closet of experiences that God has used to keep me on track....and it home today with a conversation with a man named Raymond....
Raymond lost everything in the storm, his home, possessions etc...but "I was a lucky one, I received money for the house....when I looked back on my life I realized that Katrina brought me back on track...I have decided not to rebuild my home, I found a small cottage ....and will use all my money to help others, for instance I have a neighbor near my slab that is living without a bathroom (3 YEARS LATER!!-my comment) and I would like to get an estimate to see if I can pay for her to have plumbing put back in".....
WHAT....WHAT DO I KNOW of such sacrifice, incredible willingness to give ALL that you have, so willingly, not saving the money so he can live the next 40 years, but the willingness to live for today and let tomorrow take care of itself....seeing Katrina as the thing to put me back on track...AND YES it is true....my personal Katrina has put me back on track....BUT I HAVE SO FAR TO GO....
Then I fondly remember the worship times in Houston.....HONEST HEARTS RAISE THE ROOFS....YES that is it....REVIVAL is when we come clean with God...confess how far we are from the extreme sacrifice of our lives for others, how far from keeping HIM in EVERY thought, word and deed.....and then to KNOW HIS great love and worship ......how heaven must EXPLODE with AWE and WONDER as broken Christians seek GOD because HE IS GOD.....my words are so limited.....however some way tonite these words take on new meaning by Henri Nouwen from Gracias
"Once I can see sin and virtue with clarity, I will also see sadness and joy, hatred and forgiveness, resentment and gratitude in less nebulous ways." God grant that I will have clarity and not apathy, that I will seek YOU in holiness and truth. COME LORD JESUS COME.
So as I start a new week, and briefly skim over the past couple of months, I see this wonderful pattern.....from Being Authentic, Addressing God, Silence and Adoration these disciplines for what....SO THAT I MAY KNOW HIM AND BE KNOWN....now we hit the confession week....so where does God begin....don't be ornery .....like a horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to stay on track....I am acutely aware of all the bits and bridles that hang in the closet of experiences that God has used to keep me on track....and it home today with a conversation with a man named Raymond....
Raymond lost everything in the storm, his home, possessions etc...but "I was a lucky one, I received money for the house....when I looked back on my life I realized that Katrina brought me back on track...I have decided not to rebuild my home, I found a small cottage ....and will use all my money to help others, for instance I have a neighbor near my slab that is living without a bathroom (3 YEARS LATER!!-my comment) and I would like to get an estimate to see if I can pay for her to have plumbing put back in".....
WHAT....WHAT DO I KNOW of such sacrifice, incredible willingness to give ALL that you have, so willingly, not saving the money so he can live the next 40 years, but the willingness to live for today and let tomorrow take care of itself....seeing Katrina as the thing to put me back on track...AND YES it is true....my personal Katrina has put me back on track....BUT I HAVE SO FAR TO GO....
Then I fondly remember the worship times in Houston.....HONEST HEARTS RAISE THE ROOFS....YES that is it....REVIVAL is when we come clean with God...confess how far we are from the extreme sacrifice of our lives for others, how far from keeping HIM in EVERY thought, word and deed.....and then to KNOW HIS great love and worship ......how heaven must EXPLODE with AWE and WONDER as broken Christians seek GOD because HE IS GOD.....my words are so limited.....however some way tonite these words take on new meaning by Henri Nouwen from Gracias
"Once I can see sin and virtue with clarity, I will also see sadness and joy, hatred and forgiveness, resentment and gratitude in less nebulous ways." God grant that I will have clarity and not apathy, that I will seek YOU in holiness and truth. COME LORD JESUS COME.
Monday, August 11, 2008
To the Least of These
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: Last evening SOAR sponsored a "Back to School Bash" We had prepared for 150-200 people, our normal "Sunday Supper" attendance. Our activities begin around 5PM, by 4:30PM we realized this was going to be a special Sunday. A church in Jackson MS had donated $1000k for school supplies, but 6:00PM we had distributed all that we had. An estimated 300 people attended the event.....so why am I writing.....well the youth from St. Rose church helped with the event. They served food, help pass out school supplies and ice cream. When we ran out of school supplies, a couple of the youth came over, all of them in varying stages of recovery from Katrina, said "These people are really in need, I gave them my school supplies"
The next amazing thing, we realized quickly that our supply of food would not be enough....so PRAY BREAD AND FISHES....and WOW God supplied, it was so cool to watch how the 2 cases of ribs fed EVERYONE with left overs. One small pan of Potato salad and one small pan of Macaroni salad....FED EVERYONE.....People were watching, then we told them there was food for seconds....EVERYONE KNEW JESUS WAS IN THE HOUSE.....GO GOD
LORD MAY THEY LEAD US ALL AND MAY WE FOLLOW IN OUR DAILY LIVES TO LIVE BY FAITH, TO BE OBEDIENT TO GIVE SACRIFICIALLY
The next amazing thing, we realized quickly that our supply of food would not be enough....so PRAY BREAD AND FISHES....and WOW God supplied, it was so cool to watch how the 2 cases of ribs fed EVERYONE with left overs. One small pan of Potato salad and one small pan of Macaroni salad....FED EVERYONE.....People were watching, then we told them there was food for seconds....EVERYONE KNEW JESUS WAS IN THE HOUSE.....GO GOD
HOW HAPPY THE HEART OF JESUS.....here are the world changers, YOUTH...willing to think of other more than themselves, giving sacrificially, serving others and recognizing the need to care for the poor.
LORD MAY THEY LEAD US ALL AND MAY WE FOLLOW IN OUR DAILY LIVES TO LIVE BY FAITH, TO BE OBEDIENT TO GIVE SACRIFICIALLY
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Communication and Communion
Disciplines of the Inner Life...well here I am again.....from silence to adoration....how the line between the two remains the issue of the heart. In my silent heart am I in communion with God through the Spirit....however in reflection are there times it may be as C. Fitzsimons Allison puts it.."to act as if another does not exist is a more hostile act than to slap his face. In the latter action one at least acknowledges his presence. The silent treatment is an extremely powerful weapon of aggression. With God we are seemingly unable to hurt him in any other way". So I reflect on the times, because of my anger, pain, or the situation and suffering He allows to be silent......WOW not the silence of communion but the silence that of communication.
There are times in my life I realize today have been so hurtful to God...times when I sat in silence not wanting to commune with Him or pushing back His touch. Never quite saw them in the light of today. Having had much experience with the silent treatment in the past....I look now through clearer eyes...the brutality I felt, now am the inflictor of the pain on the one I love the most.....Dear Jesus, as I continue to learn silence and adoration....communion and communication....let the meditations of my heart be pleasing unto you....and let me always recognize Your presence and love.
Holy Spirit COME and draw me always to communion and communication with you....in the midst of pain, disappointment, confusion, and the "Stuff" of life....may I always remember this day and this teaching...love you di
There are times in my life I realize today have been so hurtful to God...times when I sat in silence not wanting to commune with Him or pushing back His touch. Never quite saw them in the light of today. Having had much experience with the silent treatment in the past....I look now through clearer eyes...the brutality I felt, now am the inflictor of the pain on the one I love the most.....Dear Jesus, as I continue to learn silence and adoration....communion and communication....let the meditations of my heart be pleasing unto you....and let me always recognize Your presence and love.
Holy Spirit COME and draw me always to communion and communication with you....in the midst of pain, disappointment, confusion, and the "Stuff" of life....may I always remember this day and this teaching...love you di
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
ADORATION
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement:
ADORATION....."Words linger on long after the deep experience which they signified has been forgotten. Sometimes even the capacity for the experience has been dimmed or lost,,,Today we "adore" many things- the word is in common use...to describe lesser inane things...thus ADORATION in its original sense...BOWING DOWN IN AWE AND REVERENCE...TINGED WITH THE FEAR OF GOD>>>HAS BEEN LARGELY LOST IN SUPERFICIAL WONDER AND FEELING." Edward Farrell
WHEW....To be overcome by the awe and reverence ...the fear of GOd that I could adore HIM...such spendor and majesty....such glory without explanation or words....again here I am in the silence of my heart to LOVE HIM...FOR HIM...not for me, or others or the world....JUST HIM....You have always been LOVE, always been GOOD and always been GOD....O that I may find the place to adore you....to come and adore you....Holy, Holy Holy....
Monday, August 4, 2008
From Silence to Adoration
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: Today I finished up my three weeks of silence...well not true....TODAY I made the realization that I will always pursue SILENCE....so today in scripture there were some amazing "zaps"....first of all when Elijah was waiting for Adonai....the wind, earthquake and fire went before the LORD....then the VOICE....well I realized how many times I am trying to find the VOICE of the LORD in all the wind, earthquakes and fire...realizing that if I am silent in my heart and in communion I will not engage all the STUFF and just wait for the VOICE....sounds so simple...but man I have sure engaged some serious earthquakes trying to find God's voice in the midst of it.....
Second....the realization that once we become HIS Sheep, the plan is OUT OF THE PEN, FOLLOW HIM INTO THE PASTURE....well that was a 24x24....the deal is how often I am out of the pen following HIM...but do I want to enter the Sabbath REST of the PASTURE.....OUCH...to much to do.....KINGDOM WORK...but He was not so happy with those pharisees who were so blind because they thought they see......
THE RETINA of the KINGDOM....seems all upside down in the earths eyes...but hear HIS VOICE....forget the noise around you....follow HIM to REST....MAN HAVE I ALONG WAY TO COME TO YOU LORD>>>>GRACE AND MERCY....
Second....the realization that once we become HIS Sheep, the plan is OUT OF THE PEN, FOLLOW HIM INTO THE PASTURE....well that was a 24x24....the deal is how often I am out of the pen following HIM...but do I want to enter the Sabbath REST of the PASTURE.....OUCH...to much to do.....KINGDOM WORK...but He was not so happy with those pharisees who were so blind because they thought they see......
THE RETINA of the KINGDOM....seems all upside down in the earths eyes...but hear HIS VOICE....forget the noise around you....follow HIM to REST....MAN HAVE I ALONG WAY TO COME TO YOU LORD>>>>GRACE AND MERCY....
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
SILENCE and PRESENCE
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: Since May 8th I have been traveling through a devotional (my 4th time) on the Disciplines of the Inner Life...(now you know why it is time 4, some of us take a bit more persuasion :) anyhow....the past two weeks the discipline has been silence. Now I have spent 2 weeks in Houston with 40 people, crying, singing, praying, seeking....NONE IN SILENCE....so I figured I really missed the discipline....today as I reflected it became clear to me that silence is not about my mouth as much as my heart. Words can never fully express the deepest longings of my heart for His presence....it always alludes verbal description....however during these 2 weeks, He has listened so intently to the silent pleas of my spirit to know Him more.....so quiet I did not realize the power of the communion until I reflect on the experiece of His presence.
Often I have associated silence with lonliness....how wrong.....silence is BEING ....being IN and WITH my beloved...even when my mouth is yacking......hahahahah....how do I know??? I know because the peace that passes all understanding, the joy that is inexpressible and the abundant life is keeping me day by day.
Lord help me to be silent to hear you, loud to praise you and faithful to satisfy ALL your desires ....I love you di
Often I have associated silence with lonliness....how wrong.....silence is BEING ....being IN and WITH my beloved...even when my mouth is yacking......hahahahah....how do I know??? I know because the peace that passes all understanding, the joy that is inexpressible and the abundant life is keeping me day by day.
Lord help me to be silent to hear you, loud to praise you and faithful to satisfy ALL your desires ....I love you di
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
WORLD CHANGERS
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: OK OK OK...so it has been a REALLY LONG time since I did this...thanks to Kenny, I will try to be more faithful, since the blog is on the PNEUMA website....and that is SO exciting....however NOT the topic for tonite......
IN 1997 I read the "Coming Revival" by Bill Bright....I was HOOKED....I began the journey that Bill Bright took and brought millions of other with him...fasting, praying, fasting, praying did I say FASTING and PRAYING...OK....cause that is IT.....millions have been crying out and seeking the Lord to come and visit us again.......WELL HAVE I GOT NEWS FOR YOU....HE IS HERE......tonite I had a brief glimpse of Him making Himself known to some very HUNGRY and THIRSTY young people.......devoted followers who became dissatisfied and wanted MORE....and they did not let go until HE came and met with them. Through worship and prayer....YEP that is how it happens......
WHEW>>>we have begun an amazing journey....filled with lots of messy stuff....that is what revival is MESSY....but the clean up and SHINE after is worth it all......so if you by chance read this.....GET READY......GOD IS ANSWERING ALL THOSE PRAYERS AND FASTING AND WE AREN'T REALLY ON THE TRACK YET..BUT HANG ON IT IS GOING TO BE A GREAT RIDE....
COME LORD JESUS COME
IN 1997 I read the "Coming Revival" by Bill Bright....I was HOOKED....I began the journey that Bill Bright took and brought millions of other with him...fasting, praying, fasting, praying did I say FASTING and PRAYING...OK....cause that is IT.....millions have been crying out and seeking the Lord to come and visit us again.......WELL HAVE I GOT NEWS FOR YOU....HE IS HERE......tonite I had a brief glimpse of Him making Himself known to some very HUNGRY and THIRSTY young people.......devoted followers who became dissatisfied and wanted MORE....and they did not let go until HE came and met with them. Through worship and prayer....YEP that is how it happens......
WHEW>>>we have begun an amazing journey....filled with lots of messy stuff....that is what revival is MESSY....but the clean up and SHINE after is worth it all......so if you by chance read this.....GET READY......GOD IS ANSWERING ALL THOSE PRAYERS AND FASTING AND WE AREN'T REALLY ON THE TRACK YET..BUT HANG ON IT IS GOING TO BE A GREAT RIDE....
COME LORD JESUS COME
Monday, January 14, 2008
AWE
Thoughts, Prayers and Words of Encouragement: WOW it is hard to believe how long it has been since I sat and chatted ....today as I woke, finally somewhat refreshed I realized that I needed to write here....over the past couple of months I have been writing in my journal..but somehow here, where others join with me there is a much more cathartic release.
The past few months have resembled a roller coaster ride. Filled with excitement, terrifying plunges and moments that quite honestly just took my breath away, during the entire ride, I was securely strapped in my seat with my Daddy....at times He held my hand, for the really scary plunges He wrapped His arms around me and whispered "peace I give you". So today before we board another ride...I sit and ponder the wonder and reality of the past couple of months.
In November a new member joined my family. Her name is Yadah, she is a beautiful champagne toy poodle who was a gift from a friend. The name comes from the ancient Hebrew meaning "to extend oneself in praise". Her life is a daily reminder to me to embrace the purpose I was created....to extend...what a lovely word...seems so elegant...however I have felt like a telescopic mop handle...twisted in the middle, pulled out until I think I will fall apart in the middle, then twisted the opposite direction in order to be secure...dunked in a bucket thinking I am going to drown then pushed and pulled all over the circumstances and events of the day and finally washed and washed with running water to make sure I don't keep any of the dirt I was cleaning up...placed upright to dry in the sun....and REST.
Hahaha...it is so fun to just let stuff flow out of my soul....so anyhow, Yadah has been a delight..bringing unconditional love and joy to my life. Again a reminder of how I am to live my life...constantly being the source of God's love and joy to others.
Bringing me to one of the most wonderful miracles of Christmas....Mel and Andrew Mitchell received a HOUSE FULL of furniture on December 22nd. It was totally amazing, we had worked so hard trying to get done and ready...God incredibly answered prayer by keeping the rain away for over 40 days, so the work could be completed. Actually today, the heat should be done, the electric is on and they will be moving in this week....GO GOD. It has truly been a faith builder for me....one miracle after another...and the beauty of it being the entire community watched as God displayed His splendor..as a result neighbors have returned to church, the Mitchells have gone back to church with a commitment to attend more frequently...even cooler is that going to church is wonderful but the transformation of lives is so AMAZING...men who have found themselves more patient in situations where they previously would have exploded with anger, women able to relax and enjoy the time spent with families instead of anxious about personal circumstances...over all it has been such a delight to witness the display of God's glory.
Of course speaking about transformation brings me to the changes in my own life. Over the past couple of years I have attended St Rose de Lima catholic church. Each week I have encountered Christ deeper and deeper. When asked about leaving Bay St Louis, I have repeatedly said the challenge would be leaving the church, so difficult to explain in words, but this is the first church that I have strongly encountered the presence of God each and every week. It does not matter who preaches or sings, there is this supernatural encounter with God....I have traveled and moved so much, that changing churches sometimes is sad as you will miss the people you worship with, this time I would miss HE whom I worship.
On the first Sunday of Advent I had an amazing encounter with God, in the morning before church I had written in my journal that I would deny Him NOTHING. YEP sure learned that in my walk with the Lord I have "given and surrendered" everything...the tables turn when I desire to deny Him nothing...cause now He is in charge of what He wants...not me in charge of what I am giving....this was the loop de loop on the roller coaster!!!!
I strongly felt His presence and direction that I was to make a home in the church and Bay St Louis....A WHAT???? Well I was all over the place...Lord what in the world are you talking about....A HOME....my move to the Bay was 44 in 48 years.....never wanted a home...always said my only home was in heaven...(which is true) however I have accepted the fact that God has placed this purpose in my heart. As I reflect back to the 3 homes that Jerry and I owned, each of them we remolded with the intentions of what value we could add to them for when we sold them....here is so different..the homeowners decorate, paint and plan to live there forever...the house is what pleases THEM....what a different perspective...so I have asked the Lord to give me a HOME here in the Bay...not sure where or what it will be ...but one thing I know the kitchen will be ORANGE AND PINK....not worried about someone else buying it...hahahaha
So this was not just about a physical home....St Rose is to be my home church...now that was the terrifying plunge...being protestant my entire life....an ordained protestant minister...hearing so much about the catholic church from those who "found their way out"....well I prayed and talked over and over to the Lord...surely this was not what He was saying...yet I kept hearing..."you said you would deny Me nothing"...I realized that I needed to honor what I believed to be His direction....to trust Him completely. I have come to the conclusion that I would rather risk stepping out in obedience and be wrong than sit and give all kinds of excuses that in the end would bring Him heartache because I did not trust Him. So I have started the process of becoming a catholic. God has already opened so many doors...and as always, sometimes the best way to be an agent of change is from the inside...so I have asked Him that I would be an instrument in His hands.
Which brings me to the final BIG change....I have resigned from CityTeam as of Jan. 5th....I will forever be grateful to God that He connected me to them. The opportunity to serve the residents and volunteers through CityTeam has brought so much transformation of lives, But to everything there is a season....so this is the COOL part....when Jerry and I separated, wise counsel had advised me to just let Door of Hope rest and see what God wanted to do...well over the summer just like a kernel of wheat coming forth from the ground...God brought new life and now PNEUMA Winds of Hope has been birthed. God has provided a new board and Kathy Wise, (my sweet friend and intercessor for years) has also came along...it truly is wonderful. During the years of Door of Hope I constantly struggled with knowing that my primary responsibility is to be His vessel of LOVE and feeling like that was never enough. The intangible nature of love always collided with the need to validate my time and energies with the tangible. My ministry over the past 2 years has shown me that the tangible of Love is the change in lives.....so PNEUMA...meaning breath and life takes off this year...taking the LOVE of JESUS, prayers for revival, random acts of kindness and compassion to the nation and the world...BIG DREAMS for a BIG GOD who DREAMS them....I will keep a base here in the Bay and be connected to the ongoing recovery of community primarily working with St Rose.
Thank you Jesus for this AM...it was so wonderful to just talk out all the stuff....Lord you have been so faithful and I ask you to continue to give me the courage to deny You nothing...to seek You...to keep my ear on Your heart and to be obedient. Please give me courage and more belief and faith.....love you much, di
The past few months have resembled a roller coaster ride. Filled with excitement, terrifying plunges and moments that quite honestly just took my breath away, during the entire ride, I was securely strapped in my seat with my Daddy....at times He held my hand, for the really scary plunges He wrapped His arms around me and whispered "peace I give you". So today before we board another ride...I sit and ponder the wonder and reality of the past couple of months.
In November a new member joined my family. Her name is Yadah, she is a beautiful champagne toy poodle who was a gift from a friend. The name comes from the ancient Hebrew meaning "to extend oneself in praise". Her life is a daily reminder to me to embrace the purpose I was created....to extend...what a lovely word...seems so elegant...however I have felt like a telescopic mop handle...twisted in the middle, pulled out until I think I will fall apart in the middle, then twisted the opposite direction in order to be secure...dunked in a bucket thinking I am going to drown then pushed and pulled all over the circumstances and events of the day and finally washed and washed with running water to make sure I don't keep any of the dirt I was cleaning up...placed upright to dry in the sun....and REST.
Hahaha...it is so fun to just let stuff flow out of my soul....so anyhow, Yadah has been a delight..bringing unconditional love and joy to my life. Again a reminder of how I am to live my life...constantly being the source of God's love and joy to others.
Bringing me to one of the most wonderful miracles of Christmas....Mel and Andrew Mitchell received a HOUSE FULL of furniture on December 22nd. It was totally amazing, we had worked so hard trying to get done and ready...God incredibly answered prayer by keeping the rain away for over 40 days, so the work could be completed. Actually today, the heat should be done, the electric is on and they will be moving in this week....GO GOD. It has truly been a faith builder for me....one miracle after another...and the beauty of it being the entire community watched as God displayed His splendor..as a result neighbors have returned to church, the Mitchells have gone back to church with a commitment to attend more frequently...even cooler is that going to church is wonderful but the transformation of lives is so AMAZING...men who have found themselves more patient in situations where they previously would have exploded with anger, women able to relax and enjoy the time spent with families instead of anxious about personal circumstances...over all it has been such a delight to witness the display of God's glory.
Of course speaking about transformation brings me to the changes in my own life. Over the past couple of years I have attended St Rose de Lima catholic church. Each week I have encountered Christ deeper and deeper. When asked about leaving Bay St Louis, I have repeatedly said the challenge would be leaving the church, so difficult to explain in words, but this is the first church that I have strongly encountered the presence of God each and every week. It does not matter who preaches or sings, there is this supernatural encounter with God....I have traveled and moved so much, that changing churches sometimes is sad as you will miss the people you worship with, this time I would miss HE whom I worship.
On the first Sunday of Advent I had an amazing encounter with God, in the morning before church I had written in my journal that I would deny Him NOTHING. YEP sure learned that in my walk with the Lord I have "given and surrendered" everything...the tables turn when I desire to deny Him nothing...cause now He is in charge of what He wants...not me in charge of what I am giving....this was the loop de loop on the roller coaster!!!!
I strongly felt His presence and direction that I was to make a home in the church and Bay St Louis....A WHAT???? Well I was all over the place...Lord what in the world are you talking about....A HOME....my move to the Bay was 44 in 48 years.....never wanted a home...always said my only home was in heaven...(which is true) however I have accepted the fact that God has placed this purpose in my heart. As I reflect back to the 3 homes that Jerry and I owned, each of them we remolded with the intentions of what value we could add to them for when we sold them....here is so different..the homeowners decorate, paint and plan to live there forever...the house is what pleases THEM....what a different perspective...so I have asked the Lord to give me a HOME here in the Bay...not sure where or what it will be ...but one thing I know the kitchen will be ORANGE AND PINK....not worried about someone else buying it...hahahaha
So this was not just about a physical home....St Rose is to be my home church...now that was the terrifying plunge...being protestant my entire life....an ordained protestant minister...hearing so much about the catholic church from those who "found their way out"....well I prayed and talked over and over to the Lord...surely this was not what He was saying...yet I kept hearing..."you said you would deny Me nothing"...I realized that I needed to honor what I believed to be His direction....to trust Him completely. I have come to the conclusion that I would rather risk stepping out in obedience and be wrong than sit and give all kinds of excuses that in the end would bring Him heartache because I did not trust Him. So I have started the process of becoming a catholic. God has already opened so many doors...and as always, sometimes the best way to be an agent of change is from the inside...so I have asked Him that I would be an instrument in His hands.
Which brings me to the final BIG change....I have resigned from CityTeam as of Jan. 5th....I will forever be grateful to God that He connected me to them. The opportunity to serve the residents and volunteers through CityTeam has brought so much transformation of lives, But to everything there is a season....so this is the COOL part....when Jerry and I separated, wise counsel had advised me to just let Door of Hope rest and see what God wanted to do...well over the summer just like a kernel of wheat coming forth from the ground...God brought new life and now PNEUMA Winds of Hope has been birthed. God has provided a new board and Kathy Wise, (my sweet friend and intercessor for years) has also came along...it truly is wonderful. During the years of Door of Hope I constantly struggled with knowing that my primary responsibility is to be His vessel of LOVE and feeling like that was never enough. The intangible nature of love always collided with the need to validate my time and energies with the tangible. My ministry over the past 2 years has shown me that the tangible of Love is the change in lives.....so PNEUMA...meaning breath and life takes off this year...taking the LOVE of JESUS, prayers for revival, random acts of kindness and compassion to the nation and the world...BIG DREAMS for a BIG GOD who DREAMS them....I will keep a base here in the Bay and be connected to the ongoing recovery of community primarily working with St Rose.
Thank you Jesus for this AM...it was so wonderful to just talk out all the stuff....Lord you have been so faithful and I ask you to continue to give me the courage to deny You nothing...to seek You...to keep my ear on Your heart and to be obedient. Please give me courage and more belief and faith.....love you much, di
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