Last spring, the youth at our church had a human trafficking weekend. I had heard about human trafficking only briefly while I worked for the State, as a bill was moving through the legislature. At the time, I really didn't get it or why there would be a bill in Missouri. Then Austen Barr had a vision for a trafficking weekend at our church and the youth pastor agreed it was a great topic.
I began learning about human trafficking during that weekend. I heard some of the stories, some even as close as Missouri. It was shocking the things that people here in the US had done and some of them with their own children. We heard about kids and women who had been trafficked for the sex industry, the coffee industry, and chocolate industry, as well as many others. These things were shocking to me. I just really had no idea before then.
I thought about human trafficking but I really wasn't sure what to do about it. What can I do to prevent it? There are 1.3 million women in sexual servitude in the world. This is not including the children who are kidnapped and made to work in coffee bean or cocoa bean fields with no pay, or any other sweat shop type industry. How can one person ~ in the middle of the Bible belt ~ have any impact on worldwide human trafficking? So while I thought about it, I didn't do much about it.
God may have had other plans though. While in Gerrard's Cross, UK in July at the Run the Race event, we had a Stop the Traffik night. Someone from the Stop the Traffik organization from that local area came to speak to us about it. She mentioned a book called Trafficked by Sophie Hayes. I immediately bought it on my Kindle and started reading it. 3.5 months later, I still haven't finished it as it is a haunting story of how this girl, around Hayley's age, was trafficked by someone she considered a close personal friend. I can't quite read it now that I am at the part where the betrayal actually occurs. But I am slowly making it through. I just really started thinking that some things needed to change. Again, though, what could I possibly do?
That is why I keep bringing it up on Women's Ministry newsletters. That is why I need to pray about it. That is why I am trying to figure out how to afford fair trade chocolate and coffee in our house, instead of the US companies that insist on making profits off the backs and through the blood of enslaved children. That is why I need to know what my role is.
James 4:17 ~ If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.
I keep hearing about human trafficking. I keep learning more about it, although still I have only touched the tip of the iceberg.
James 2:14-17 ~ What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
James 1:27 ~ Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
James. The brother of Jesus. He is constantly convicting me of things ~ not taming my tongue, not submitting to God, boasting about tomorrow, etc. But this time I am going to try to heed his word. I want to know what it is I should do, then DO IT. I want to look after orphans and widows in their distress. I want to help those who have been trafficked, who think there is no hope, who don't know that there is a God who loves them more than He even loves the sparrows for whom He provides.
What does that look like? I still don't know.
But I know that it will be in the Women's Ministry newsletters each time. I know that Michael's coffee bill just went up. I know that our chocolate bill went up. I know that I will be praying for them. I will be figuring out how to be a part of this. I will be writing letters to these precious souls who have been rescued, to let them know they are treasured and loved. After that, I don't know. But I do know that I am praying for discernment ~ only God knows where this will take me. Maybe only as a prayer warrior. Maybe more.
I will be talking about this in the future. Trafficking. Please pray for those currently in bondage. Please pray for those who are doing the trafficking or are the slave masters/brothel owners/pimps/slave owners/etc. They need Jesus just as much as those who are enslaved.
Father God ~ I lift these lives up to You. I pray that You will put a hedge of protection around these little children who are beaten and starved, yet work more during the day than I do during the week. Protect them God, because they cannot protect themselves. Help us as Americans to realize that our coffee and chocolate addictions are not worth the blood of these children. God I lift up those women and children who find themselves slaves to the sex industry. I pray for their release and freedom Lord. I pray that they will be rescued and will learn that You love them. I pray they will find You. Father, I lift up those who are inflicting this evil on these people. I pray that You convict them, You grab hold of their hearts, and You turn them. I pray that they release these people. I pray that they find You. Lord, I don't know my role in this yet, so I am asking for discernment. I need to know what it is You would have me do. I don't believe this is something that I am just supposed to hear but do nothing about. It has been brought to my attention at FBC during trafficking weekend, at GX during Stop the Traffik night, and again this weekend at the Heart Retreat when Chelsea told us about Project Rescue. Help me see my role then help me fulfill it to the best of my ability. I know that only through You can I do what You would have me do. Thank You for my freedom. Thank You for my salvation. Thank You for bringing this to my attention. Three different times. I know that you will work all this for the good, as I love You God, and I am called according to Your purpose. Work through me. In Your name I lift my praise and prayer. Amen.
Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
Monday, November 12, 2012
Disappeared
It has been two months and three days since my last post. I disappeared. In many ways. I haven't posted because Satan has really been attacking me from all sides, but I wasn't wanting to post it or deal with it.
Brother Lionel shared with us on October 14 that we would all have storms to go through. But Jesus gives us an example on how we can weather the storms in Mark 4:35-41. We are to rest, respond, rebuke, and restore. Jesus took His time to rest before He responded to the storm. He didn't react; He responded. He rebuked the winds and put them in check. After the storm passed, everything was restored.
Some of the storms in our life were sent by God, to test and refine us. Some of the storms in our life were created by us. Some storms were sent by the devil. We need to weather these storms, but how we deal with them can change the outcome. If we follow Jesus' example, we will be restored. Maybe not to the exact condition we were before, as God uses these to glorify Him and do a good work in us. But we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
As I said before, Satan has really been attacking me since I got home from London. I think he knows some great seeds were planted when I was there. Not in London, but in my heart. I have something blooming in my heart for a new ministry opportunity. I don't know what it will look like, or how big my part will be, or if I will just be a prayer warrior, but it is there. And Satan knows it. So he has been attacking me every which way that he knows I am vulnerable. Insecurity. Lies. Financially. My children. Choices. Friendships.
I have rested for the last few months ~ not well, mind you. I have listened to his lies and cried. A lot. But I am done. I have rested. Now I am ready to respond. I am ready to defeat his lies with the truth. I am ready to remove the insecurities he has placed in my life (I have enough of my own that I put there!!). I am ready to take control of my life, my choices, my children, and my friendships. I am ready to rebuke Satan. He will not have power over my house.
"As for me, and my house, we will serve the Lord." Jeremiah 29:11
I hope you are trembling Satan. I'm coming. With the armor of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:10-20)
Brother Lionel shared with us on October 14 that we would all have storms to go through. But Jesus gives us an example on how we can weather the storms in Mark 4:35-41. We are to rest, respond, rebuke, and restore. Jesus took His time to rest before He responded to the storm. He didn't react; He responded. He rebuked the winds and put them in check. After the storm passed, everything was restored.
Some of the storms in our life were sent by God, to test and refine us. Some of the storms in our life were created by us. Some storms were sent by the devil. We need to weather these storms, but how we deal with them can change the outcome. If we follow Jesus' example, we will be restored. Maybe not to the exact condition we were before, as God uses these to glorify Him and do a good work in us. But we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
As I said before, Satan has really been attacking me since I got home from London. I think he knows some great seeds were planted when I was there. Not in London, but in my heart. I have something blooming in my heart for a new ministry opportunity. I don't know what it will look like, or how big my part will be, or if I will just be a prayer warrior, but it is there. And Satan knows it. So he has been attacking me every which way that he knows I am vulnerable. Insecurity. Lies. Financially. My children. Choices. Friendships.
I have rested for the last few months ~ not well, mind you. I have listened to his lies and cried. A lot. But I am done. I have rested. Now I am ready to respond. I am ready to defeat his lies with the truth. I am ready to remove the insecurities he has placed in my life (I have enough of my own that I put there!!). I am ready to take control of my life, my choices, my children, and my friendships. I am ready to rebuke Satan. He will not have power over my house.
"As for me, and my house, we will serve the Lord." Jeremiah 29:11
I hope you are trembling Satan. I'm coming. With the armor of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:10-20)
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Post-London
I eluded before to feeling a little down, and I have been. Maybe it is like after Christmas, when you are sad the holidays are over. You leave the tree up a while, thinking that the blues will stay away while the tree is up and in a way, they do. But some underlying current keeps reminding you that the tree is going to come down, because the holiday season is over.
I am not ready to pack away my London experience - it was simply quite amazing. I totally have a heart for this lovely country and a heart for its people. I could definitely see myself moving there. Of course, there are 5 people who wouldn't come with me, so maybe I will just dream about it.
However, since I came back from London, I think my blues are a little more than it being over. Satan has been on the attack in my heart and in my mind. To quote a friend of my daughter's, "Satan is a punk." And that he is. He has been nailing me with a barrage of self-doubts, from my choice to stay at home to women's ministry to parenting to friends to my current hometown.
I feel like he knows his time is short so he is trying so hard to crush and distort any witness I have. In some instances, he prevails. I lose my temper or I make comments or have actions that are not pleasing to God. And in that instant, my witness is ruined. Why do I keep letting him attack me and not cover myself with God's armor? Why do I keep letting him pull me down? Because I have not fully turned this over to God, by prayer and petition, by reading God's word and by having faith that His promises are true.
Once I realized this, I have chosen to say what Jesus said to Peter in Matthew 16:23 "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns."
I am still super self-conscious about those things that Satan has been attacking, and it will take some time, but I have faith that in time my spirits will be lifted, my heart and mind will be strengthened, and Satan will no longer have a stronghold.
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
I am not ready to pack away my London experience - it was simply quite amazing. I totally have a heart for this lovely country and a heart for its people. I could definitely see myself moving there. Of course, there are 5 people who wouldn't come with me, so maybe I will just dream about it.
However, since I came back from London, I think my blues are a little more than it being over. Satan has been on the attack in my heart and in my mind. To quote a friend of my daughter's, "Satan is a punk." And that he is. He has been nailing me with a barrage of self-doubts, from my choice to stay at home to women's ministry to parenting to friends to my current hometown.
I feel like he knows his time is short so he is trying so hard to crush and distort any witness I have. In some instances, he prevails. I lose my temper or I make comments or have actions that are not pleasing to God. And in that instant, my witness is ruined. Why do I keep letting him attack me and not cover myself with God's armor? Why do I keep letting him pull me down? Because I have not fully turned this over to God, by prayer and petition, by reading God's word and by having faith that His promises are true.
Once I realized this, I have chosen to say what Jesus said to Peter in Matthew 16:23 "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns."
I am still super self-conscious about those things that Satan has been attacking, and it will take some time, but I have faith that in time my spirits will be lifted, my heart and mind will be strengthened, and Satan will no longer have a stronghold.
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
A new craft
So I'm totally excited to start a new craft with the kiddos today. It is definitely a multi-day craft. It normally takes a couple of days anyway, but then I am adding a 24 hour period away from home into the mix. But I am impatient and decided not to wait.
I learned to make paper during my shift in the Arts marquee while in Chalfont St Peter. A charming lady named Julia showed us step by step how to make it (although she did the first few steps at home first). So Amberlie and I (and Breckin if he wakes up soon) are going to start making our own paper. It will have a tint of gray unless we paint it or use colored paper. We plan to make cards for friends and family using this paper.
We already purchased the frames and the netting, just need Michael to put them together.
Before we need the frames though, we need to shred the paper. Julia tore hers up into small squares, but we are going to cheat and just shred it. After it is torn up, we will put it in a bucket of water to sit for 24 hours. When it has soaked for 24 hours, it will be put into the blender a handful at a time with a LOT of water, pulsing 10 seconds three times. This is the paper pulp.
Then using a baby bath tub (or something similar), add about 3 gallons of water and 6 cups of paper pulp. For each sheet of paper, add another cup of pulp.
I didn't take a pic after it was dry (we were after all in London!!).
Julia said we could paint with food coloring and it would be vibrant. Well, we will just have to see what we come up with this weekend we finally finish the project.
Julia also showed us how to make earrings. Super fun! I'm not an earring wearer, even though I have two earring holes in each ear. But it was fun to make gifts. And next payday or the one after that I plan on buying all the tools to do that as well. I think Ammi will have her ears pierced by the end of this year if I let her make the earrings. We shall see!
For now, I have paper to shred! (And other crafts to work on!!)
Peace.
I learned to make paper during my shift in the Arts marquee while in Chalfont St Peter. A charming lady named Julia showed us step by step how to make it (although she did the first few steps at home first). So Amberlie and I (and Breckin if he wakes up soon) are going to start making our own paper. It will have a tint of gray unless we paint it or use colored paper. We plan to make cards for friends and family using this paper.
We already purchased the frames and the netting, just need Michael to put them together.
Before we need the frames though, we need to shred the paper. Julia tore hers up into small squares, but we are going to cheat and just shred it. After it is torn up, we will put it in a bucket of water to sit for 24 hours. When it has soaked for 24 hours, it will be put into the blender a handful at a time with a LOT of water, pulsing 10 seconds three times. This is the paper pulp.
Then using a baby bath tub (or something similar), add about 3 gallons of water and 6 cups of paper pulp. For each sheet of paper, add another cup of pulp.
Take a piece of netting and place it on the frame with the net and put the other frame on top.
Taking the frames, dip them down and pull them straight up and let the water drain out. Remove the paper from the frame and allow to dry - if super hot and dry like Missouri then it should dry in a couple of hours; in London it takes about 24 hours.
I didn't take a pic after it was dry (we were after all in London!!).
Julia said we could paint with food coloring and it would be vibrant. Well, we will just have to see what we come up with this weekend we finally finish the project.
Julia also showed us how to make earrings. Super fun! I'm not an earring wearer, even though I have two earring holes in each ear. But it was fun to make gifts. And next payday or the one after that I plan on buying all the tools to do that as well. I think Ammi will have her ears pierced by the end of this year if I let her make the earrings. We shall see!
For now, I have paper to shred! (And other crafts to work on!!)
Peace.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Packing up
You know the day after Christmas when you look around at your house and realize it is over? When everyone in your family is staring at you because they think it is time to take the trees and decorations down?
That is where I am right now. The mission trip is over. We went over there and did what we needed to do and celebrated God's mighty actions. Then we came home. Now I feel like everyone is staring at me to move on to the next phase...taking down the "tree".
But I can't. First, my body is not letting me. Somehow it is still on UK time or something because I keep waking up at 1, then 3, and up by 4 a.m. (7, 9, and 10 a.m. UK time). I am moving in slow motion throughout the day and not a lot of house cleaning is getting done.
Secondly, and most importantly, while the trip is over, the mission is not. I'm not really sure where I fit in the whole big picture, but I know that it isn't time for me to pack away the Greater European Mission (GEM, with whom we partnered). Maybe I am just a continuous prayer partner, praying that God continues to touch the hearts and lives of those in the UK. Maybe I am a prayer partner and future mission trip team member. Maybe I have some other role. I just don't know yet. I do know that I'm not ready to pack it up and move on.
Just like my Christmas trees that are up until January 6 (Epiphany), I just know it isn't time for packing away right after the trip is over. My UK "tree" is going to continue to have a place in my heart and in my home until the day I know God has wrapped up my role in UK missions. Then I will sadly, but surely, pack it away.
Please join me in continuing to pray for God's work in the UK.
That is where I am right now. The mission trip is over. We went over there and did what we needed to do and celebrated God's mighty actions. Then we came home. Now I feel like everyone is staring at me to move on to the next phase...taking down the "tree".
But I can't. First, my body is not letting me. Somehow it is still on UK time or something because I keep waking up at 1, then 3, and up by 4 a.m. (7, 9, and 10 a.m. UK time). I am moving in slow motion throughout the day and not a lot of house cleaning is getting done.
Secondly, and most importantly, while the trip is over, the mission is not. I'm not really sure where I fit in the whole big picture, but I know that it isn't time for me to pack away the Greater European Mission (GEM, with whom we partnered). Maybe I am just a continuous prayer partner, praying that God continues to touch the hearts and lives of those in the UK. Maybe I am a prayer partner and future mission trip team member. Maybe I have some other role. I just don't know yet. I do know that I'm not ready to pack it up and move on.
Just like my Christmas trees that are up until January 6 (Epiphany), I just know it isn't time for packing away right after the trip is over. My UK "tree" is going to continue to have a place in my heart and in my home until the day I know God has wrapped up my role in UK missions. Then I will sadly, but surely, pack it away.
Please join me in continuing to pray for God's work in the UK.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
{Home}
There is always something bittersweet about going home. I spent the entire 26 hours I was getting ready to go home, actually going home, and two hours it took me to wind down after home just wanting to be home. I couldn't wait to get it started and get it over with. Then as I hugged my babies (3 of them) I was so happy to be there yet sad I wasn't in CSP anymore.
I find that I really miss being there. No, I don't miss the cracker meals or the super tiny "toilets" (aka restrooms) or even the six bunk bedrooms with the oh-so-friendly ginormous spider BUT I miss the people, I miss the spirit, and I miss the purpose. I find that I keep thinking about how we can reach more Brits for Christ. How long until I can return. What my role will be.
I told Michael I was ready to move there. He told me we had to check out Puerto Rico first. Then I told him if we did go to UK, we would have an immediate reno first, but that I thought he would love it. He is a summer baby, I am a winter baby. That may be why we stay in Missouri - part of the year I am happy and part of the year he is happy. So maybe I won't move to the UK, but I know I will be returning. I have such a heart for these people. I knew before we even went that I was going to be touched by this mission. I had a dream before I went that I returned as an actual missionary there. The numbers are staggering - less than 5% of people my age and younger go to church. I can't imagine not having Christ to turn to if times get rough. Or not worshipping with fellow believers to get my week started off right. Or not knowing where I would be going when this life is over.
I adore this area of the world that I got to experience. But until God makes it clear what I am to do next, I am going to enjoy my babies and my family here in Cali. I sure do love those kiddos and I am so glad to be home with them. I look forward to the day I can share this beautiful country with them.
So glad to be home. Thank you all for your many prayers and all the support. Please continue to pray for the United Kingdom and that the hearts and minds of the people will be prepared to receive the gospel. And keep Run the Race in your prayers. We may be home, but the work continues this week.
The mission report service featuring the Mexico mission trip, the El Salvador mission trip, and the London mission trip is Sunday, August 12 at FBC, California. I think at 6. I hope to see you there so you can be blessed by what God has been working on.
Peace.
I find that I really miss being there. No, I don't miss the cracker meals or the super tiny "toilets" (aka restrooms) or even the six bunk bedrooms with the oh-so-friendly ginormous spider BUT I miss the people, I miss the spirit, and I miss the purpose. I find that I keep thinking about how we can reach more Brits for Christ. How long until I can return. What my role will be.
I told Michael I was ready to move there. He told me we had to check out Puerto Rico first. Then I told him if we did go to UK, we would have an immediate reno first, but that I thought he would love it. He is a summer baby, I am a winter baby. That may be why we stay in Missouri - part of the year I am happy and part of the year he is happy. So maybe I won't move to the UK, but I know I will be returning. I have such a heart for these people. I knew before we even went that I was going to be touched by this mission. I had a dream before I went that I returned as an actual missionary there. The numbers are staggering - less than 5% of people my age and younger go to church. I can't imagine not having Christ to turn to if times get rough. Or not worshipping with fellow believers to get my week started off right. Or not knowing where I would be going when this life is over.
I adore this area of the world that I got to experience. But until God makes it clear what I am to do next, I am going to enjoy my babies and my family here in Cali. I sure do love those kiddos and I am so glad to be home with them. I look forward to the day I can share this beautiful country with them.
So glad to be home. Thank you all for your many prayers and all the support. Please continue to pray for the United Kingdom and that the hearts and minds of the people will be prepared to receive the gospel. And keep Run the Race in your prayers. We may be home, but the work continues this week.
The mission report service featuring the Mexico mission trip, the El Salvador mission trip, and the London mission trip is Sunday, August 12 at FBC, California. I think at 6. I hope to see you there so you can be blessed by what God has been working on.
Peace.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Last Day
Yesterday we had our normal morning shifts - I had babies again. Sweet precious babies. Then Belinda and I helped set up for the seniors' tea they were having. When it was all set up, Mary, Belinda, and I took another trip to central London. We got on a boat at Westminster and rode on the Thames to London Bridge. It was a nice little ride and we were able to see quite a few things. Then we got off at the London Bridge. That is an amazing sight, absolutely stunning. We then also saw the London Tower and St Paul's cathedral. Totally worth the ride back into town. We also saw the Olympic park venue at Wembley, where they play "football" (aka soccer). We had a great time.
Today we begin our last work day here. This will be the last time I play with these delightful babies, and the last time I experience the British "creche". Things are slightly different in a British creche. It was great to spend time interacting in there.
This afternoon I will be working in Arts and Justice again. It still cracks me up that these two are together, but it works. Monday when we did Arts/Justice we made earrings and Olympic flowers out of water bottles. It was great and I am looking forward to interacting with whomever God sends our way today.
Today will be bittersweet. We will be saying goodbye to some of the people we have gotten to know over the last several days. It has been a real joy to meet these individuals who are trying to impact their community for Christ. We will also be preparing to say goodbye to this delightful weather. It has rained every other day this week and temps have been in the 60s. It has been great!
Chalfont St Peter and Gerrards Cross now have a special place in my heart as these people have gladly welcomed us into their worlds and have briefly taught us what it is to be Christian in a non-Christian world. I have totally taken it for granted that there are so many Christian individuals in my community. The stats they gave us during training last week were:
Prayer requests:
Today we begin our last work day here. This will be the last time I play with these delightful babies, and the last time I experience the British "creche". Things are slightly different in a British creche. It was great to spend time interacting in there.
This afternoon I will be working in Arts and Justice again. It still cracks me up that these two are together, but it works. Monday when we did Arts/Justice we made earrings and Olympic flowers out of water bottles. It was great and I am looking forward to interacting with whomever God sends our way today.
Today will be bittersweet. We will be saying goodbye to some of the people we have gotten to know over the last several days. It has been a real joy to meet these individuals who are trying to impact their community for Christ. We will also be preparing to say goodbye to this delightful weather. It has rained every other day this week and temps have been in the 60s. It has been great!
Chalfont St Peter and Gerrards Cross now have a special place in my heart as these people have gladly welcomed us into their worlds and have briefly taught us what it is to be Christian in a non-Christian world. I have totally taken it for granted that there are so many Christian individuals in my community. The stats they gave us during training last week were:
- in a 2009 poll, 77% of North Americans claim to be Christians and 62% claim to be members of a church.
- in a 2007 poll, less than 15% of people in UK go to church at least once per month and under 40, the number drops to less than 5%.
Prayer requests:
- People in the UK - their hearts and minds will be open to the gospel
- Missouri team - we have come so far, that we will endure and finish this race
- America - that we will continue to be a nation on fire for God.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Prayer
I have no idea what happened yesterday - why I didn't post. I remember yesterday just fine, I just can't recall what happened last night. I did journal about yesterday and about what I learned from a sweet child, but I'll not share it right now.
We had a great day yesterday, each of us doing the jobs we had been assigned during the morning Kids Holiday Club, then other jobs in the afternoon. I got to play with the babies. They are some precious sweet babies in that room. But funny how I can raise four kiddos yet feel so confused about what is going on. Raising a UK baby is just a little different - the way they do things - and I sure didn't want people looking at me like I was crazy.
In the afternoon we learned how to make earrings (adults) and flowers out of water bottles (kiddos).
Today, I had babies again - they are sweet!! Then in the afternoon, Mary, Belinda, Lisa and I walked down to the village and took pics, shopped, ate, and exchanged money. I used a British ATM to take out my American money. That was a deal, but I figured it out!
Then I chilled on a sofa in our relaxing room and watched the Olympics and snoozed the rest of the afternoon. When it was time, I went to my shift for the evening. The event tonight was "Stop the Traffik" and it was amazing. Another simple reminder that while we are all living our lives to the best of our abilities, every 30 seconds someone is trafficked. We need to be forcing these companies who utilize products from those who traffick and force children and adults into slavery to stop it. Hershey's is a big abuser. This has to end. It was a great night.
Over the last two days, we seem to be dropping like flies. Fatigue, illness, injuries, and Satan's lies seem to be plaguing our team. Please pray for our team that we can resist Satan.
James 4:7 reads "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
We are willing to submit to God's will for our lives. Satan is working super hard because he knows his time is short and we are working on impacting the UK for God.
Prayer requests:
Angels bow before Him, heaven and earth adore Him
What a mighty God we serve.
So please be in prayer for the above. That mighty God of ours will hear you and will grant us all peace. Prayer prepares the way.
Peace!
We had a great day yesterday, each of us doing the jobs we had been assigned during the morning Kids Holiday Club, then other jobs in the afternoon. I got to play with the babies. They are some precious sweet babies in that room. But funny how I can raise four kiddos yet feel so confused about what is going on. Raising a UK baby is just a little different - the way they do things - and I sure didn't want people looking at me like I was crazy.
In the afternoon we learned how to make earrings (adults) and flowers out of water bottles (kiddos).
Today, I had babies again - they are sweet!! Then in the afternoon, Mary, Belinda, Lisa and I walked down to the village and took pics, shopped, ate, and exchanged money. I used a British ATM to take out my American money. That was a deal, but I figured it out!
Then I chilled on a sofa in our relaxing room and watched the Olympics and snoozed the rest of the afternoon. When it was time, I went to my shift for the evening. The event tonight was "Stop the Traffik" and it was amazing. Another simple reminder that while we are all living our lives to the best of our abilities, every 30 seconds someone is trafficked. We need to be forcing these companies who utilize products from those who traffick and force children and adults into slavery to stop it. Hershey's is a big abuser. This has to end. It was a great night.
Over the last two days, we seem to be dropping like flies. Fatigue, illness, injuries, and Satan's lies seem to be plaguing our team. Please pray for our team that we can resist Satan.
James 4:7 reads "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
We are willing to submit to God's will for our lives. Satan is working super hard because he knows his time is short and we are working on impacting the UK for God.
Prayer requests:
- Aaron (my little bro), Leslie, and Will
- the Missouri team - all 23 of us - Justin, Jennifer, Adam, Scott, Mark, Brad, Kelli, Sonya, Lisa, Calvin, Phil, Tricia, Becky, Angela, Gene, Diane, Mary, Belinda, Derek, DJ, Pam, Steve, and me
- for the people of Chalfont St Peter, Gerrards Cross, and all over the UK - that their hearts and minds will be open to the message of the gospel
- that those who are ill are made well, those who are injured are healed, those who Satan is attempting to deceive will overcome
Angels bow before Him, heaven and earth adore Him
What a mighty God we serve.
So please be in prayer for the above. That mighty God of ours will hear you and will grant us all peace. Prayer prepares the way.
Peace!
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Worship
Worship was fabulous today. I needed it like Missouri ground needs rain. We have been having a great time in London, but I just needed some sweet worship time and boy did they provide. Rather than worship in their separate churches, each church involved in Run the Race in Chalfont St Peter gathered in the big marquee on the common. 900+ peopled gathered in that tent to sing "Amazing Grace (My chains are gone)", Strength will Rise, and more. It was such a tremendous blessing.
This afternoon we had team meetings then about an hour or two to watch some Olympics. Tomorrow Kids Club and the other activities for youth and adults start. In the past Kids Clubs they have had about 120 show. This time they had to close registration when it hit 750. God is moving in big ways here. I'm so thankful to be able to witness this.
Prayer requests:
So looking forward to tomorrow. To quote my precious daughter Hayley, "Go Team Jesus!"
Peace.
This afternoon we had team meetings then about an hour or two to watch some Olympics. Tomorrow Kids Club and the other activities for youth and adults start. In the past Kids Clubs they have had about 120 show. This time they had to close registration when it hit 750. God is moving in big ways here. I'm so thankful to be able to witness this.
Prayer requests:
- health for team members
- an outbreak of salvation breaks out and people turn their lives over to God
- my brother, Leslie, and Wills
So looking forward to tomorrow. To quote my precious daughter Hayley, "Go Team Jesus!"
Peace.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
A beautiful day and a lost opportunity
What a gorgeous day. Most of us hopped on the rail and the tube and spent the day in London. Gorgeous places, gorgeous pics, gorgeous people, and one missed opportunity.
We (Belinda, Mary, and I) met James on the rail. We were trying to figure out 1) where we wanted to go, 2) how to get there, and 3) how to read the tube map. We weren't accomplishing any of those three. He was such a splendid gentleman, he just asked what we were wanting and directed us the right way. We got a couple of pictures of him. Then I had this brilliant idea to talk to him - we would be praying later over our meal and I was going to ask him if there was something for which I could pray for him. I decided to wait a few minutes, then another, then another...then it was gone. Just like that. I could have said something that would have made both our days go better. Instead I had another missed opportunity. That is what makes me so frustrated sometimes. Instead of just going with it - I have to plan it. Planning kills moments. This is the second time I have done this (and felt HORRIBLE about it) in the last 5 months. I am sure I have missed other opportunities, but only two have really jumped out at me, almost like a reminder of how I didn't do as called.
But off the debbie-downer mode. London is awesome! Wish I had another day to make a go of it, but we don't. I saw enough things to be satisfied, but didn't get to see everything I wanted. We were so tired we gave up a little early. I'm not sure I could have walked much further. We saw Picadilly Circus (we think, we don't really know what it is), Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Thames River and Victoria Park (or something like that), St James Park, Buckingham Palace, and even ate at an English pub. Belinda and Mary ate burgers with fried eggs on them. I almost gagged from the smell. And I ate...wait for it...wait for it...come on...an English pub?? Yep. Nachos!
Today has been a great day. Tomorrow we get to worship and get ready for the awesome God-filled events the rest of the week.
Prayer requests:
We (Belinda, Mary, and I) met James on the rail. We were trying to figure out 1) where we wanted to go, 2) how to get there, and 3) how to read the tube map. We weren't accomplishing any of those three. He was such a splendid gentleman, he just asked what we were wanting and directed us the right way. We got a couple of pictures of him. Then I had this brilliant idea to talk to him - we would be praying later over our meal and I was going to ask him if there was something for which I could pray for him. I decided to wait a few minutes, then another, then another...then it was gone. Just like that. I could have said something that would have made both our days go better. Instead I had another missed opportunity. That is what makes me so frustrated sometimes. Instead of just going with it - I have to plan it. Planning kills moments. This is the second time I have done this (and felt HORRIBLE about it) in the last 5 months. I am sure I have missed other opportunities, but only two have really jumped out at me, almost like a reminder of how I didn't do as called.
But off the debbie-downer mode. London is awesome! Wish I had another day to make a go of it, but we don't. I saw enough things to be satisfied, but didn't get to see everything I wanted. We were so tired we gave up a little early. I'm not sure I could have walked much further. We saw Picadilly Circus (we think, we don't really know what it is), Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Thames River and Victoria Park (or something like that), St James Park, Buckingham Palace, and even ate at an English pub. Belinda and Mary ate burgers with fried eggs on them. I almost gagged from the smell. And I ate...wait for it...wait for it...come on...an English pub?? Yep. Nachos!
Today has been a great day. Tomorrow we get to worship and get ready for the awesome God-filled events the rest of the week.
Prayer requests:
- my baby brother
- tomorrow's commissioning of the next 16 days of events
- the next 16 days of events
- preparation of hearts - both ours and those who will come to our events.
Friday, July 27, 2012
What a spectacular day!
This post will be short and sweet. It was a beautiful day. Gorgeous and cool outside. We did some chores and jobs around the church, had lunch, and then went to the common where the event tonight was to take place.
We set up tents and other things - people started showing around 5:30, then the festivities began. Bouncy houses - I forget what they called them - hamburgers and sausages on a roll, drinks, popcorn, candy, and let's not forget the big screen!
Then the opening ceremony began. It was AWESOME. When Team GB (Team Great Britain) came out the common exploded with shouting, yelling, singing, British flags, the works. It really was spectacular. And yes the Americans yelled for the Americans. I took a LOT of pics. But since it is 1:30 a.m. and we just got back here about 15 minutes ago, I am going to sign off here, find a sweatshirt and hide under a comforter. We Missourians are FREEZING in this 60 degree breezy weather.
Prayer requests for the team:
We set up tents and other things - people started showing around 5:30, then the festivities began. Bouncy houses - I forget what they called them - hamburgers and sausages on a roll, drinks, popcorn, candy, and let's not forget the big screen!
Then the opening ceremony began. It was AWESOME. When Team GB (Team Great Britain) came out the common exploded with shouting, yelling, singing, British flags, the works. It really was spectacular. And yes the Americans yelled for the Americans. I took a LOT of pics. But since it is 1:30 a.m. and we just got back here about 15 minutes ago, I am going to sign off here, find a sweatshirt and hide under a comforter. We Missourians are FREEZING in this 60 degree breezy weather.
Prayer requests for the team:
- a few are feeling a bit under the weather - mostly aches and pains from manual work or walking around a lot
- tomorrow is our day off - some are resting at the hostel and others are going to downtown London - either way prayers for safety if traveling or fabulous rest
- fabulous rest for all of us tonight - we started at 8:00 a.m. this morning with devotion and as I mentioned above we got back to the hostel about 1:15.
- please pray for our families we left behind, especially little kiddos. I know I sure miss mine.
- Please continue to pray for those who we will come into contact with over the next week that God will prepare us to talk to them and prepare their hearts to hear His word.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Coke and Blessings
We arrived in London yesterday morning at 8:00 am London time (2:00 am Cali time). We breezed through the border and customs without any major hitch and found our way to Gold Hill Baptist Church. We were positively pumped yet completely exhausted. We attended some training, nearly falling over while listening, but were able to stay awake and complete it. We literally staggered to our beds and everyone fell fast asleep. Except me. Are you kidding me? I hadn't had a coke since Tuesday morning and I was still awake until a little after midnight.
Today I was completely and totally blessed. I had a great Bible Study time this morning. Study was on what blessings accompany faith, patience, and perseverance. If you are interested, look them up in Psalm 130:5-7; Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 6:12; Hebrews 10:35-36; James 1:3-4; and James 5:7-11. A great list of blessings.
Then we had a devotion together and Gene reminded us not to criticize - Romans 14:13. It is so important as we think about things that are different than the way we would do it - whether it is in a different country or back home. We aren't to tear each other down, but to build one another up. James 4:11-12 speaks of this as well.
I also read a verse this morning about blessing others and then being blessed as well. I can't find it now and super sad about that.
We then had training about what to do and not do, say and not say here. Such as we say pants, but here pants go under trousers. So if you tell someone you like their pants you are telling them you like their underwear. We learned how to start conversations and relationships with the locals - what are good questions to ask, what aren't, etc. Then we had to write "our story" in 100 words or less. I actually did it - I think I had 98. He asked for volunteers to share it - and I honestly think that I was almost pushed out of my chair. No, not Pam, but God. I don't know why I felt the need to share it, but I did. Maybe God knew I needed to practice it out loud first before I had to share it during the real deal.
Then I met Jeannie. She is my hero. Poor Pam and I were having Coke withdrawal. She drinks Diet Coke and I drink Coke Zero. There have been no sodas since we left the States and we couldn't even go buy any because we hadn't had time to have money exchanged. She said she would take us to get sodas after training. That was the sweetest thing. I appreciated her desire to get us our Cokes. Turns out as a local she didn't have to stay as long as we did during the training, so we thanked her for her thoughtfulness and she left. A few minutes later, this new hero of mine walked back into training and left Pam and I 3 Coke Zeros and 3 Diet Cokes and 20 pounds! I didn't even have a chance to say thank you and she was already gone! She is working with Run the Race though, so I know I will see her again to thank her (and give her the pounds back - we finally had a chance to exchange money). I know some may think that Pam and I are crazy for needing the soda. And buying the soda may be so minor. But it blessed me beyond measure. I got all teary-eyed. This sweet, sweet woman felt so inclined to locate the thing Pam and I most desired at that point. She had only "known" us an hour or two as she sat at our table during training and she heard us talking about trying to locate some soda. The fact that she went out of her way to bless us with what we needed (yes, NEEDED) was so powerful to me this morning, especially after I had read that verse about blessing and being blessed.
And Derek - kind soul that he is - got us each HUGE diet coke and coke zero! What a great man!! Needless to say, we are hooked up now!
So many other things happened today and it was such a beautiful day. We did a prayer walk for 45 minutes and prayed over the common where events were going to be held. It was so powerful to see all those people walking over the common and praying.
We have been so blessed to be a part of this so far. I am truly humbled that God knew He could use me so He brought me here. What an amazing God I serve. Can you see a recurring theme? My mind and my heart are overwhelmed by God's blessings everywhere I turn today.
Prayer requests for our team:
Prayer requests for me (and Mary):
Today I was completely and totally blessed. I had a great Bible Study time this morning. Study was on what blessings accompany faith, patience, and perseverance. If you are interested, look them up in Psalm 130:5-7; Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 6:12; Hebrews 10:35-36; James 1:3-4; and James 5:7-11. A great list of blessings.
Then we had a devotion together and Gene reminded us not to criticize - Romans 14:13. It is so important as we think about things that are different than the way we would do it - whether it is in a different country or back home. We aren't to tear each other down, but to build one another up. James 4:11-12 speaks of this as well.
I also read a verse this morning about blessing others and then being blessed as well. I can't find it now and super sad about that.
We then had training about what to do and not do, say and not say here. Such as we say pants, but here pants go under trousers. So if you tell someone you like their pants you are telling them you like their underwear. We learned how to start conversations and relationships with the locals - what are good questions to ask, what aren't, etc. Then we had to write "our story" in 100 words or less. I actually did it - I think I had 98. He asked for volunteers to share it - and I honestly think that I was almost pushed out of my chair. No, not Pam, but God. I don't know why I felt the need to share it, but I did. Maybe God knew I needed to practice it out loud first before I had to share it during the real deal.
Then I met Jeannie. She is my hero. Poor Pam and I were having Coke withdrawal. She drinks Diet Coke and I drink Coke Zero. There have been no sodas since we left the States and we couldn't even go buy any because we hadn't had time to have money exchanged. She said she would take us to get sodas after training. That was the sweetest thing. I appreciated her desire to get us our Cokes. Turns out as a local she didn't have to stay as long as we did during the training, so we thanked her for her thoughtfulness and she left. A few minutes later, this new hero of mine walked back into training and left Pam and I 3 Coke Zeros and 3 Diet Cokes and 20 pounds! I didn't even have a chance to say thank you and she was already gone! She is working with Run the Race though, so I know I will see her again to thank her (and give her the pounds back - we finally had a chance to exchange money). I know some may think that Pam and I are crazy for needing the soda. And buying the soda may be so minor. But it blessed me beyond measure. I got all teary-eyed. This sweet, sweet woman felt so inclined to locate the thing Pam and I most desired at that point. She had only "known" us an hour or two as she sat at our table during training and she heard us talking about trying to locate some soda. The fact that she went out of her way to bless us with what we needed (yes, NEEDED) was so powerful to me this morning, especially after I had read that verse about blessing and being blessed.
And Derek - kind soul that he is - got us each HUGE diet coke and coke zero! What a great man!! Needless to say, we are hooked up now!
So many other things happened today and it was such a beautiful day. We did a prayer walk for 45 minutes and prayed over the common where events were going to be held. It was so powerful to see all those people walking over the common and praying.
We have been so blessed to be a part of this so far. I am truly humbled that God knew He could use me so He brought me here. What an amazing God I serve. Can you see a recurring theme? My mind and my heart are overwhelmed by God's blessings everywhere I turn today.
Prayer requests for our team:
- please pray for each of us
- pray for strength and endurance as we will be setting up some more tomorrow for the opening ceremony then will be doing the opening ceremony festivities into the wee morning hours (it ends at midnight, then clean-up)
- pray for the opening ceremony activities - that our preparations go well so people focus on relationships instead of logistics that went wrong, etc.; that the people God has chosen to attend this event will be there; that their hearts will be prepared; that we will be His hands and feet; and that in all we say and do He will be glorified.
Prayer requests for me (and Mary):
- please pray that we get some sleep. It is 12:13 am here and we are both WIDE awake. And no, it isn't the coke. I couldn't sleep last night either and I hadn't had coke. Mary didn't even have coke. I just can't sleep.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
London as a Mission Field
I'm not going to lie. I have been intrigued with London for about as long as I can remember. So when they said we would be doing a mission trip there during the OLYMPICS, there was really no question about whether I would be going. I did do the nice wifely thing and ask permission to go, but I don't think it took a lot for him to think about.
If you know me at all, you know I get VERY.LITTLE.SLEEP. during the Olympics. Back when the Olympics were better and they had SOFTBALL, Hayley and I would set our alarms to get up at 3:00 a.m. to watch USA Softball take on the world. And running events?? Track is my fave HS sport (with football and softball a close second/third). Oh yeah...my DVR is going to be burning up while I am gone.
But why London? They aren't a third world country. They don't have scores of starving, half-naked children staring back through our tv screens. They have clean water. They have the Bible. Why London?
Because God sees a need. He has been working in London for years, and years, and years... He just asked us to meet him there. To be involved in His kingdom work.
God is working everywhere. There have been other mission trips and I have sent two of my children on those trips, but I have always found a reason not to go - first trimester of pregnancy with my LAST child, costs too much, can't afford more than one of us to go at a time, have to fly over water, etc. Then God said - Rachel, meet me out there. Where Lord? In London. Now He had my attention.
So Hayley went to India in January, Jake went to El Salvador in July, and I am going to London. We can afford to send more than one, because if it is His will, He provides the way.
So why London? In my life it was to get my attention.
In the big picture, it is because London is a MAJOR huge city. And only a very small percentage know God. Because God is working there in the hearts of people and He wants those of us who know Him to have relationships with those who are learning to know Him so we can encourage them. When Malcolm (one of the Londoners we will be working with) was here in MO a couple of months ago he said only FIVE PERCENT of London's population goes to church. Wikipedia has London metropolitan area as around 14 million. That means over 13 million people do not go regularly go to church. That means over 13 million people who God has His eye and His heart on.
So why London? Because the world is coming to London. And God is already there.
Today, 23 of us from the Concord Association will be heading to London, 9 of those from my church. We felt God prompting us to meet him in London. He gives each of us the calling to "Go". For some of us we are to go to third world countries, for some of us we are to go across the street to a hurting neighbor. But for today, I am to go to London.
Matthew 28:19-20: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Please remember us in your prayers - that our words and actions are pleasing to Him, that in all we say and do we bring Him glory.
Belinda Ashley
Gene and Diane Eulinger
Steve and Pam Liebi
Mary Schreck
Rachel Traver
Derek Watson
DJ Watson
and the others from Concord. But most importantly pray that the hearts of those with whom we come into contact will be prepared to hear of God's salvation.
See ya on the flip side!
If you know me at all, you know I get VERY.LITTLE.SLEEP. during the Olympics. Back when the Olympics were better and they had SOFTBALL, Hayley and I would set our alarms to get up at 3:00 a.m. to watch USA Softball take on the world. And running events?? Track is my fave HS sport (with football and softball a close second/third). Oh yeah...my DVR is going to be burning up while I am gone.
But why London? They aren't a third world country. They don't have scores of starving, half-naked children staring back through our tv screens. They have clean water. They have the Bible. Why London?
Because God sees a need. He has been working in London for years, and years, and years... He just asked us to meet him there. To be involved in His kingdom work.
God is working everywhere. There have been other mission trips and I have sent two of my children on those trips, but I have always found a reason not to go - first trimester of pregnancy with my LAST child, costs too much, can't afford more than one of us to go at a time, have to fly over water, etc. Then God said - Rachel, meet me out there. Where Lord? In London. Now He had my attention.
So Hayley went to India in January, Jake went to El Salvador in July, and I am going to London. We can afford to send more than one, because if it is His will, He provides the way.
So why London? In my life it was to get my attention.
In the big picture, it is because London is a MAJOR huge city. And only a very small percentage know God. Because God is working there in the hearts of people and He wants those of us who know Him to have relationships with those who are learning to know Him so we can encourage them. When Malcolm (one of the Londoners we will be working with) was here in MO a couple of months ago he said only FIVE PERCENT of London's population goes to church. Wikipedia has London metropolitan area as around 14 million. That means over 13 million people do not go regularly go to church. That means over 13 million people who God has His eye and His heart on.
So why London? Because the world is coming to London. And God is already there.
Today, 23 of us from the Concord Association will be heading to London, 9 of those from my church. We felt God prompting us to meet him in London. He gives each of us the calling to "Go". For some of us we are to go to third world countries, for some of us we are to go across the street to a hurting neighbor. But for today, I am to go to London.
Matthew 28:19-20: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Please remember us in your prayers - that our words and actions are pleasing to Him, that in all we say and do we bring Him glory.
Belinda Ashley
Gene and Diane Eulinger
Steve and Pam Liebi
Mary Schreck
Rachel Traver
Derek Watson
DJ Watson
and the others from Concord. But most importantly pray that the hearts of those with whom we come into contact will be prepared to hear of God's salvation.
See ya on the flip side!
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Changing my Mind
I've changed my mind. I'm not going to London. At least that is the part of my brain who keeps remembering that I am going to be flying. Over water. See, I didn't think that one all the way through when I signed up for this trip. They said London, I said heck yeah. They said Olympics, I said of course. Then somewhere in the early, early hours of the morning the next day...I had it. Signer-upper's remorse. I totally sat upright in bed around 3:00 a.m. the next morning and said WHAT HAVE I DONE? I have been in denial for the last several months. Yeah, I am going to London. I can't wait to see what God has in store. But will you build me a bridge to London? Like London Bridge, or something.
This is where God comes in. I believe I was supposed to be in London. The funds were made available IMMEDIATELY upon my decision to go, which is when the first installment was due. Then we had fundraisers and the funds were available when they needed to be. Then the last payment was due and it was paid that week. See? He made it financially possible.
He has prepared my heart for going to London. I have participated in three different Bible Studies over the summer - one specifically written for London, Nehemiah, and No Other Gods. Between the three of them, God has spoken to me - how my heart must be broken for the world around me, how I can't hold on to those things or people that I place before God when God is calling me to go.
And yet, there is still one place where I am not ready to go. That is in the deepest part of my psyche that says "You are going to be flying. Over water."
So when you get on your knees either figuratively or physically tonight and for the next couple of weeks, please pray for me that I will not FREAK OUT when the plane takes off AND especially when we go over water. I know in my normal, smart brain that everything will be okay regardless. But in my deep, down, where nobody goes, subconscience I have a completely irrational fear of flying over water. So please just ask God to remove that irrational fear because if God is for me, who can be against me?
I am going to London. In four and a half days.
This is where God comes in. I believe I was supposed to be in London. The funds were made available IMMEDIATELY upon my decision to go, which is when the first installment was due. Then we had fundraisers and the funds were available when they needed to be. Then the last payment was due and it was paid that week. See? He made it financially possible.
He has prepared my heart for going to London. I have participated in three different Bible Studies over the summer - one specifically written for London, Nehemiah, and No Other Gods. Between the three of them, God has spoken to me - how my heart must be broken for the world around me, how I can't hold on to those things or people that I place before God when God is calling me to go.
And yet, there is still one place where I am not ready to go. That is in the deepest part of my psyche that says "You are going to be flying. Over water."
So when you get on your knees either figuratively or physically tonight and for the next couple of weeks, please pray for me that I will not FREAK OUT when the plane takes off AND especially when we go over water. I know in my normal, smart brain that everything will be okay regardless. But in my deep, down, where nobody goes, subconscience I have a completely irrational fear of flying over water. So please just ask God to remove that irrational fear because if God is for me, who can be against me?
I am going to London. In four and a half days.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
7 days and counting...
Seven days. I need to get it together. I bought a new suitcase last night. Bright yellow. Now I suddenly feel this need to get it together. Michael just laughed about my color choice (could have chosen bright pink, super orange, or lime green in this style). I chose yellow for MIZZOU. Michael said I wouldn't miss the suitcase in the airport. I hope he is right.
We got so much accomplished today. We watched a movie. We read a book - that is all the attention span I was given from Breckin today. We played at the park. We crafted - Amberlie painted a wood block and her name and I messed up vinyl letters, but I got the memory star for my gram started.
No packing. No planning. Just playing.
And that is just fine.
We got so much accomplished today. We watched a movie. We read a book - that is all the attention span I was given from Breckin today. We played at the park. We crafted - Amberlie painted a wood block and her name and I messed up vinyl letters, but I got the memory star for my gram started.
No packing. No planning. Just playing.
And that is just fine.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Tick...tick...tick
Holy cow. Where is the time going? I know I wrote about that last time, but seriously! There are just 8 days until I leave for London. So many things to do! Swimming, painting, playing outside, crafting, hugging on babies (mine and a friend's), going to the park, watching tv, reading books...how am I going to fit it all in?
Well, just going to take it one day at a time. Last Friday Amberlie and I made countdown chains - one for her and one for Breckin. When I leave next Tuesday, they can start breaking off a chain every day and they will know how long until I get home. Yesterday we made a countdown to kindergarten calendar. Just 31 days!
She is pretty excited. I'm not. Not because my baby girl is getting so big and going to kindergarten. I went through that in May during summer school. It is because I will no longer be able to just have her home during the day because I want her there. I can no longer make fun plans with the kiddos whenever I want. I will have to plan everything around that six letter word. I don't want to. I want her to be home with me in the afternoons when Breckin will be home, so we can go to the Capitol, or go swimming, or go on a park tour.
Today we are working on her workbook to keep the things she learned in Montessori sharp. We will be reading books later and running errands. I am all too aware that in a week, my "summer" is over. Sure, she won't be going to school when I get back, but it will be so close. I plan to sleep all day on August 4 and 5. When I wake up on 8/6, we will be celebrating my dad and my husband's birthday. Three days later I will be moving my oldest back to Bolivar to start her JUNIOR year. SAY WHAT? Then just six short days later - days filled with school shopping, going to bed earlier, and football practices - Jake will be going back for his junior year in high school and the little princess will be going to kindergarten. YIKES.
So while London is coming up and yes, I am looking forward to it, I am not going to lie...I am not EXCITED for it. There are so many things to do! And everything I have mentioned doesn't even include packing, buying items that I need, and preparing my heart and my mind to be used for the King's glory.
AND THAT is when I realize I have my priorities all wrong. THAT is when I realize I have allowed my kids to become my "functional gods". Those things (or people) that I place before my relationship with Christ. Those things (or people) that I attempt to find satisfaction in and with, rather than seeking only what God can satisfy.
Exodus 20:3 You shall have no other gods before me.
Isaiah 55:2 Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.
It is time I get past those worldly things that I cannot control but control me (time, people, busy-ness). It is time that I re-focus and ensure that God is the God of my life; that He is the author of my faith; that He is in control. If I can't fit swimming in one more time this summer, is it really that catastrophic? No. I have next summer (God-willing). If I am not prepared to share the Truth and further the Kingdom of God, is it really that catastrophic? Yes, for that person I failed to talk to or for me, it just might be.
So while I have only a few days left before I leave for London, I intend to spend time making memories with my little ones. But I will ensure that while I am molding their lives I am also preparing them and me for Kingdom work. When I get up in the morning, I don't want to ask - what fun thing can we do today? but I want to ask - how can I reflect God's glory to someone today?
Well, just going to take it one day at a time. Last Friday Amberlie and I made countdown chains - one for her and one for Breckin. When I leave next Tuesday, they can start breaking off a chain every day and they will know how long until I get home. Yesterday we made a countdown to kindergarten calendar. Just 31 days!
Today we are working on her workbook to keep the things she learned in Montessori sharp. We will be reading books later and running errands. I am all too aware that in a week, my "summer" is over. Sure, she won't be going to school when I get back, but it will be so close. I plan to sleep all day on August 4 and 5. When I wake up on 8/6, we will be celebrating my dad and my husband's birthday. Three days later I will be moving my oldest back to Bolivar to start her JUNIOR year. SAY WHAT? Then just six short days later - days filled with school shopping, going to bed earlier, and football practices - Jake will be going back for his junior year in high school and the little princess will be going to kindergarten. YIKES.
So while London is coming up and yes, I am looking forward to it, I am not going to lie...I am not EXCITED for it. There are so many things to do! And everything I have mentioned doesn't even include packing, buying items that I need, and preparing my heart and my mind to be used for the King's glory.
AND THAT is when I realize I have my priorities all wrong. THAT is when I realize I have allowed my kids to become my "functional gods". Those things (or people) that I place before my relationship with Christ. Those things (or people) that I attempt to find satisfaction in and with, rather than seeking only what God can satisfy.
Exodus 20:3 You shall have no other gods before me.
Isaiah 55:2 Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.
It is time I get past those worldly things that I cannot control but control me (time, people, busy-ness). It is time that I re-focus and ensure that God is the God of my life; that He is the author of my faith; that He is in control. If I can't fit swimming in one more time this summer, is it really that catastrophic? No. I have next summer (God-willing). If I am not prepared to share the Truth and further the Kingdom of God, is it really that catastrophic? Yes, for that person I failed to talk to or for me, it just might be.
So while I have only a few days left before I leave for London, I intend to spend time making memories with my little ones. But I will ensure that while I am molding their lives I am also preparing them and me for Kingdom work. When I get up in the morning, I don't want to ask - what fun thing can we do today? but I want to ask - how can I reflect God's glory to someone today?
Monday, July 2, 2012
Where has the time gone?
Where did the time go? Last time I blogged I had 67 days. Now, just 22. I have been so super busy that the time has just flown by. I thought I had plenty of time, but suddenly find that I am quickly running out of time. Part of me is still in denial - maybe I don't want all of me to realize I will be flying over water. Part of me is super psyched and ready to get going! I am not going to lie, I have always wanted to be in London. Something about London just fascinates me. But more than anything, I want to be changed by London. I want to be radically changed so that my entire life reflects the Son and I am on fire every day, every hour.
During the 45 days I have not posted, I have been very busy. My kids' school year ended, so I now have a soon-to-be junior in college, junior in high school, kindergartner, and preschooler. Amberlie started kindergarten summer school and is taking swim lessons. Jake is doing weightlifting every morning at 6:00 a.m. (when will he get his license??) for football and preparing to leave for El Salvador in 10 days...TEN DAYS!! Hayley is away for the summer again. I hate that. Breckin is my shadow, goes everywhere I go.
We have been to Nebraska, Tennessee, Virginia (and the states in between), and Branson. We visited family and friends. We ate awesome nachos, ate at a restaurant with a car hanging above our heads from the ceiling, and swam in the ocean. We had Chick-Fil-A a couple of times, but that is never enough.
We have crafted and painted and colored. Taken naps, stayed up way too late, and played.
And before I know it, summer will be over. I thought that two weeks ago when June was only half over. But I will be spending the next 3 weeks getting Jake ready for El Salvador and me ready for London. I will be trying to spend as much time with my babies as possible as well, because 6 days after I return, I will be helping Hayley move from camp back to school. 7 days after that my two middle ones will be starting school.
Sometimes our time just isn't enough. But I am thankful that my family knows the Father of time. When this life is over, we will have eternity to worship and praise the Father together. I am so thankful for the time I have now and just hope and pray that I use it wisely and for His glory, while raising up these future men and women.
During the 45 days I have not posted, I have been very busy. My kids' school year ended, so I now have a soon-to-be junior in college, junior in high school, kindergartner, and preschooler. Amberlie started kindergarten summer school and is taking swim lessons. Jake is doing weightlifting every morning at 6:00 a.m. (when will he get his license??) for football and preparing to leave for El Salvador in 10 days...TEN DAYS!! Hayley is away for the summer again. I hate that. Breckin is my shadow, goes everywhere I go.
We have been to Nebraska, Tennessee, Virginia (and the states in between), and Branson. We visited family and friends. We ate awesome nachos, ate at a restaurant with a car hanging above our heads from the ceiling, and swam in the ocean. We had Chick-Fil-A a couple of times, but that is never enough.
We have crafted and painted and colored. Taken naps, stayed up way too late, and played.
And before I know it, summer will be over. I thought that two weeks ago when June was only half over. But I will be spending the next 3 weeks getting Jake ready for El Salvador and me ready for London. I will be trying to spend as much time with my babies as possible as well, because 6 days after I return, I will be helping Hayley move from camp back to school. 7 days after that my two middle ones will be starting school.
Sometimes our time just isn't enough. But I am thankful that my family knows the Father of time. When this life is over, we will have eternity to worship and praise the Father together. I am so thankful for the time I have now and just hope and pray that I use it wisely and for His glory, while raising up these future men and women.
Friday, May 18, 2012
73 (or 67) days
This is one of the first of many entries regarding London. It is taken out of my written journal, but as the written word is more personal, not all information is written exactly (I have removed incredibly personal info I don't want to share). This entry was actually written on 5/12, but hopefully in the future I will be a little quicker. It now is 67 days away.
5/12/2012
London. 73 days. Seems a lifetime away, almost like it will never get here. I still don't think that it has hit me yet that I am going, much less that I will be flying over water. Not so funny that I can't possibly go to Africa, but you throw London in the picture and I suck it up to be there? Sad, in a way, but maybe God is using this as a way to say flying over water isn't that bad. London 2012, Kimini 20?? You never know.
I'm starting session 2 of the Fast Track London workbook. So looking forward to seeing what God has in store.
Galatians 3:28 - There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
I completed an exercise about how I view church (and what words come to mind) and how the culture I will be entering views church. I started with how I think Londoners view church. I only had 3 words in common with my views. It really opened my eyes about my prejudices of the culture there. I had no idea I thought any differently. About London? Really? It seems the closest thing to my culture as you can get outside the US.
I have so much to learn. And so many attitudes to fix.
The workbook says: When encountering different beliefs, the first challenge is to understand them - determining the meaning behind them in their particular context - and then to evaluate them according to their consistency with scripture and the purposes of God.
I think this can be used within our own culture as well - maybe even to try to understand those we know well but we don't how or why they believe as they do. Maybe if I reach out and understand where s/he is coming from, s/he will let God move him back.
Please pray for each team member - that we will grow in Him and be able to discern His will in our life, and that in all we do, we do it for His glory.
Team members: Gene and Diane Eulinger, Steve and Pam Liebi, Derek Watson, DJ Watson, Mary Schreck, Belinda Ashley, and me.
5/12/2012
London. 73 days. Seems a lifetime away, almost like it will never get here. I still don't think that it has hit me yet that I am going, much less that I will be flying over water. Not so funny that I can't possibly go to Africa, but you throw London in the picture and I suck it up to be there? Sad, in a way, but maybe God is using this as a way to say flying over water isn't that bad. London 2012, Kimini 20?? You never know.
I'm starting session 2 of the Fast Track London workbook. So looking forward to seeing what God has in store.
Galatians 3:28 - There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
I completed an exercise about how I view church (and what words come to mind) and how the culture I will be entering views church. I started with how I think Londoners view church. I only had 3 words in common with my views. It really opened my eyes about my prejudices of the culture there. I had no idea I thought any differently. About London? Really? It seems the closest thing to my culture as you can get outside the US.
I have so much to learn. And so many attitudes to fix.
The workbook says: When encountering different beliefs, the first challenge is to understand them - determining the meaning behind them in their particular context - and then to evaluate them according to their consistency with scripture and the purposes of God.
I think this can be used within our own culture as well - maybe even to try to understand those we know well but we don't how or why they believe as they do. Maybe if I reach out and understand where s/he is coming from, s/he will let God move him back.
Please pray for each team member - that we will grow in Him and be able to discern His will in our life, and that in all we do, we do it for His glory.
Team members: Gene and Diane Eulinger, Steve and Pam Liebi, Derek Watson, DJ Watson, Mary Schreck, Belinda Ashley, and me.
The Countdown Begins
Not sure what happened to this post, but I wrote it on 5/2/2012. So posting it now.
5/2/2012
82 days. In 82 days I will be conquering my fear (or phobia) of flying over water. I will be in the air en route to London, England for the Olympics. As those of you who know me well know, I don't sleep during the Olympics. I am addicted to the Summer Games and watch at all hours of night and day. However, since they took softball out in 2008 (and 2012), I haven't actually set an alarm to wake up for a 3:00 a.m. game for a while.
BUT...that isn't the point this time. I won't actually be seeing the games (so watch out trusty DVR, you will be full by the time I get home!). What is causing me to go someplace I have always wanted to go during the Games I love so much, especially when I won't be seeing much, if any, of either one? CHRIST!
London - the capital of the world - home to over 12 million people in the metropolitan area - and soon to be home of the 2012 Olympics. The whole world will be converging on this fascinating city. What better place than London to share the gospel of Christ?
So I hope you will go on this journey with me and the rest of the team members. How? By reading this blog when I post about London and be in prayer for the team, that God will prepare the hearts of those with whom we will have contact, and that He will give us the right words to say. I am not seeking the lost world, He is. I am just His tool.
5/2/2012
82 days. In 82 days I will be conquering my fear (or phobia) of flying over water. I will be in the air en route to London, England for the Olympics. As those of you who know me well know, I don't sleep during the Olympics. I am addicted to the Summer Games and watch at all hours of night and day. However, since they took softball out in 2008 (and 2012), I haven't actually set an alarm to wake up for a 3:00 a.m. game for a while.
BUT...that isn't the point this time. I won't actually be seeing the games (so watch out trusty DVR, you will be full by the time I get home!). What is causing me to go someplace I have always wanted to go during the Games I love so much, especially when I won't be seeing much, if any, of either one? CHRIST!
London - the capital of the world - home to over 12 million people in the metropolitan area - and soon to be home of the 2012 Olympics. The whole world will be converging on this fascinating city. What better place than London to share the gospel of Christ?
So I hope you will go on this journey with me and the rest of the team members. How? By reading this blog when I post about London and be in prayer for the team, that God will prepare the hearts of those with whom we will have contact, and that He will give us the right words to say. I am not seeking the lost world, He is. I am just His tool.
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