A Bit of "Bling" for Guatemala

Socks crocheted with a bit of "Bling"

"Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you." Ja 1:27

My friend Sherry, had just finished listening to Kay tell about her mission trip to Jamaica for a vision clinic. Sherry said the internal battle that raged within her was palpable. Her daughter was deeply involved in Guatemalan missions team and had been there many times. Every time Sherry had a reason not to. Until now. The Holy Spirit used Kay's presentation to wrestle and defeat every excuse Sherry had held as legitimate. Her aging mother's care.... "Go." responsibilities... "Go."  

"Scarf "Opportunities

What reminds me of a generous heart?

                a scarf.

A dear woman whom I have come to adore; exclaimed
   "Oh, you like it... here, I'd like you to have it." and with that, she removed her scarf- draping it in the hands of the young woman.

I want to do that...choose generosity in opportunities like that; yet, all too often I have chosen stinginess over generosity; worrying for my own needs and wants.  I have justified it as prudence and fiscal responsibility.  "If I had more I could be more generous..." I would tell myself; knowing full well that:

Tug o War

Century School Field Day

“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit.  So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace....”Ro 8:5-6

Field Day. I still remember mine nearly 40 years ago. The other day I watched as the eager 2^nd graders were preparing for the big day.  Today they would be practicing the tug o’ war.  The kids chomped at the bit- vying for the rope. The red ribbon that marked center would remain neutral for a fraction of a moment as the whistle blew. After that, the team that pulled the strongest would control its fate.

Fire!

Park Rapids Fire, May 16th 2013

““The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Pr 18:21)

We saw it at we drove south of town.  Off in the distance black smoke was rising.  Strong winds fueled the blaze that consumed 7100 acres; destroying  far more than the 64 buildings that were in it’s wake.  What started it?

A spark.  That’s all it took.  Our tongue, if not controlled, does damage just like that fire. (Ja 3:5)

I held the phone. The anger and veracity were like strong winds that fueled damaging words.  The words burned. Blame, names, and bitterness erupted and spread… like a fire. Rage. Her tongue raged with anger.  As I hung up the phone I felt scorched and my worth left in ashes.  I wept.

Two Men walk up to a bar...

MinneSoda Fountain

“Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?” Ja 2:5

I was washing dishes- the lunch rush was over.  Two men bellied up to the bar. That is, our ice cream counter. The younger one, maybe mid- twenties, was looking for a bite to eat. He looked like he stepped out of Berkley College. Everything about him radiated his copious amounts of knowledge regarding history and politics.  The second man looked much older-rough; life had not been kind. His hands & clothes were dirty.  As I look back, it might not have been that he was so much older; just perhaps that the trials of life had multiplied his years- etching time deeper in his weathered frame. Sitting a stools space from me, his pungent smell was evident.

Bricks or Stepping Stones

“Don't grumble against one another...”Ja 5:9

A few years back I recall a Sunday afternoon in which 10 to 15 teenagers stood in front of a small congregation that had gathered to hear of their mission trip out East.  As with many reports we were regaled with stories of the journey.  Some kids were brave enough to share how God had revealed Himself to them; others unknowingly confirmed His provision as they shared the happenings and events on the journey.  What struck me most was when Phil, their leader, stepped forward with a brick.

What's good about Good Friday?

Today He was dead. In a tomb. Sealed.

How is it that 3 days dead can work for good?  A co-worker of mine expressed her how much he disliked the dying part of Easter.  I wonder what the disciples thought. Shocked. Dismayed. Even if they had hoped for him to come back to life- I bet they were past it now. Do you think they wondered,
"This wasn't how it was supposed to be.."
      "What do I do now?"
         
I wonder what Peter thought in those dark days.  Did he think about that conversation during their last supper together.

"While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.” They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, “Surely you don’t mean me?”...“You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, ... Peter declared, “Even if all fall away, I will not.” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.” But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same". (Mk 14:18-19,27,29-31)

Did regret fill his mind- realizing he chose fear over friendship? Fear over faith.

When I would hear those word of Christ's before- I would hear them with a bit of a bite. But I'm not so sure anymore.  What if Christ was not mad or disappointed. What if he was simply telling Peter the truth. He knew the conviction would be tested. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Mk 14:38.

Jesus knew He was a committed follower of Christ. He'd seen his desire to live obediently- even to the point of stepping out of a boat to walk on the waves!  You've got to give the man credit.  He drew his sword to defend Christ, yet in fear, perhaps disillusionment- he denied Christ, and now Christ was dead.

I find it interesting that so many of the people I've been privileged to walk with in their journey of Faith would attest that the resolve of their Faith was strengthened by persevering a difficult time or trial.
James seemed to find the same to be true: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." Ja 1:2-4.

What a trial for Peter. I don't imagine he felt joy. I wouldn't presume to know what went through his mind over those days of darkness-  but this I do see.  God was working in Peters heart.  In the midst of anguish- God was at work!
Tomorrow is Resurrection- Jesus is Alive!
     Jesus is God just as He said! -Nothing is impossible.
                All he said was True!

Jesus seeks him out and shows Peter grace.  Peter is changed. No more doubt- He doesn't just want to follow Christ- There is no holding him back.  May we  too believe Christ is LORD ... and when we live that conviction... there will be no holding us back.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Ro 8:28.  

Show and Tell:Easter Baggie Baskets

"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." Gal 6:14

Show and tell. I was just in a classroom not too long ago where children circled anxiously for their turn to share their treasures.  Barely able to contain their joy, most sat and squirmed- barely able to contain themselves. Not long ago our pastor reminded us that we, as followers of Christ, have a treasure for Show & Tell a midst the people we circle up with each day. Our treasure: the freedom and hope we have in Christ!  Show (the love of Christ) & Tell (give Him the Credit).

I just have to share this joy and encouragement!  People who love the LORD become filled with His love and compassion... and it shows!

Filled with the desire to express our faith in love, these women set out to create Easter "baskets" that could be distributed by the food shelf to the children whose families utilize it.

Too Much!

"For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks." Lu 6:45

Cake #1

Have you ever taken on a bit to much?  I did that night. Here's the lead up.

  

A woman had asked me to make a cake for a birthday party she was giving. She   asked to have it by Friday night, for a party Saturday morning. A sweet little 6" round white with raspberry filling decorated with pink curly-cues.   I have done many a cake- most for my little boys... none with pink and none like this.

This is a test. This is only a test...

It just hung there.  As if standing still.  It was the progress light on my treadmill.  As if it asked the question:
        "Really? Are you gonna finish or quit?"
Oh, I wanted to quit.  I had to change pace a number of times today. And I really considered quitting.   The treadmill belt was shifting funny, I had plenty to do, I was tired and feeling more like it was beating me- than I was beating it.

It was not the first time. There have been many mornings where I have not overcome. Didn't take that chance in the afternoon. The day went by and I didn't do it.  Sometimes, it was planned.  Sometimes it has been the battle of discipline and I lost for that day.

God commanded Joshua "...be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (Jos 1:9).

I believe that God allows the circumstances life to reveal to us our true hearts.  He knows our hearts and motives; He knows what we will choose to do.  However, I don't think we do.  We think we know what we would do.  And we know what we would like to do. But until we are posed with the opportunity- a test- our true hearts are not revealed- to us.

In regard to exercise  my failures at getting up have strengthened my resolve to integrate exercise into my life; however, it has also made me examine finding the balance as to how much and when.. and I am working on that.

But as you know exercising my Faith in the grind of everyday life is a discipline I am tested on moment by moment.  God is continually presenting opportunities for me to act out my faith and trust in who He is.  Although it is for His glory; the test (opportunities) reveals to me my heart toward Him.  Do I really believe God and His word... enough to really do it when the opportunity arises?

"...a man came into the Soda Fountain and sat down. He was one of the people who live in the margins of life- often unnoticed and perhaps ignored by so many. He was about to have surgery and spoke of it with some trepidation. Now, God had been challenging me to offer prayer to many whom I don’t know; however, this time... I just didn’t want to. He was different …. And, so I waited and waited… putting it off until he left. I knew I should have offered, but I didn’t. After he left, my head resonated with the scripture “do not show partiality.”[1] I had done just that. And, more convicting was “…anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.”[2] My stomach churned.

On my knees that night I asked God to forgive my willful defiance and -in a desire to truly change and live out His Word loving others- I asked for an opportunity to redeem myself in the future. The very next morning- as I’m running to work (literally, don’t ask)- I see the very same man chatting with the postman in front of our shop. Every reason not to stop whirled through my head. What would it be? Would I obey God…or not? I decided to surrender my will, and stopped. I reintroduced myself, apologized for not doing it earlier, and offered prayer. He accepted. I put my hand on his shoulder, and prayed. In that encounter God taught me about obedience; repentance; love; forgiveness; and grace. (From "About Me" page of this blog)

"This is a test. This is only a test..." Sometimes as Christians I wonder if we get so worried about failing an opportunity we've been given that we forget God's grace. He is able to work all things together for good for those who love him and are called according to His purpose.  Nothing is wasted in His eyes.  It may be used to reveal to us Truth or to reveal Him to others... but in all things He is glorified.  Remember to press on toward the goal (Phil 3:14) and don't give up... having done everything... stand firm (Eph 6:13).

My friends, you can't let God down- because you don't hold Him up.

Good intentions @ 7:00AM

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.... and... ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’(Mt 22:27-29)

I know it's good for me.  And, I want to do it.
         
              Except...

                              The bed that morning was just too comfortable. And although I had said I would exercise- sleep won the battle.  Okay, here's the worst part.  It wasn't even sleep.  I laid there telling myself  "You should get up." "You want to do this." -only to rise from my pillow, and lay back down. There would always be later....until there wasn't.

"Later" had now past.  It was 7:00am. If I wanted a hot shower before the boys, it was now.  Choosing my pillow rather than the treadmill had exposed the truth: being comfortable trumped my conviction to exercise.  I thought I wanted to; I had said I wanted to, but in reality, when the feet had to hit the floor- I didn't do it. It was no more than a good intention.  And that good intention wouldn't bring about the prize I'm running after- a healthier me.

That was  7:00AM.

As I drove home from work that day, the sun was still bright. All of my family members were accounted for at homes other than their own.  I had time.  I could do it. Outside even.  There was no reason not to. Quickly I slipped on some gear, hat, & gloves; leashed the dog... and off I went. You know, I don't even know how long it took.  It's 7:00PM, and all I can say is that I'm glad I did it.

In some ways it reminds me of a story Jesus told some religious leaders:  

"A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway. Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go.  “Which of the two obeyed his father?”        They replied, “The first."

 Jesus explained: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do. For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn't believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.(Mt 21:28-32)

Why, like the younger brother do we say "Yes" but in the end don't?  Perhaps because we don't want to hurt someone's feelings; or;perhaps we intend to- but run out of time... other things are more important.  But there seems a false glory in it- I think I'm helping- but I'm not. Regardless of the intention, a "yes" without action- is a "no".  My intentions and desires, as good as they may be, will not matter at then end of the day unless I act on them.

Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. (Ja 5:17)

At the end of the day, have we been obedient or not?  Father God, desires what is best you his children.  All his instructions are for good.  He commands us to live rightly- not only for the benifit of those around us- but also for us.  He loves us. I knew what I should do that morning... but at 7:00am I was like the older brother.   A quiet, though rebellious "no" really was my answer as I pulled the covers over my head shutting out the still small voice prompting me.

But, like the older brother, I am also grateful for God's grace.  He is the God of second chances!  That afternoon, I was presented with another opportunity and that time I choose differently.  I think perhaps the beauty of the older brother is that he was honest... with the Father and himself... but deep down he loved his Father and his choices showed it.

Jesus replied, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. (Jn 14:23-24)

Father, help me to be obedient to that still small voice of yours that offers LIFE in the grind of this life.  And could you help me to do it earlier than later today! lol

I did it.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Gal 6:9

Well, I did it. I went for a run/walk again today.  I don't know about you but it's one thing to start something and another to be faithful to it.

Christmas break began for my boys. I was spent. Exhausted. My family's Christmas and some rest was what I thought was the answer. For the next two weeks most of my commitments would stop- even my work hours would diminish due to college students home for break. As I spoke one day with my sister, I heaved a sigh, "I am sooo looking forward to this break... I need this."

"Schell, you need to get some exercise. You'll feel so much better."  Deep down I knew she was right.  I hated it. Exercise, I mean.  I've tried before.  Due in part to my type "AAA," control freak, anxiety prone personality, I haven't changed clothing size too much (other than when pregnant).  However, the "thickness" gathering at my waist was only a reflection of my unhealthy spirit.  And in my exhaustion, I knew she was right.

So in desperation, I de-cluttered the treadmill and hopped on. Choosing a walk/run program that was far more walk than run, I began. Slow at first.  I was glad I wasn't out on the school yard running a mile with kids- 'cause I felt like the kindergartners would have blown by me.  Isn't that one of the things that hinders us in exercise...  and in exercising our faith?  "What if I look dumb? What will people think? What if I fail?  What if I can't?  What if..." And so we quit, or never start.

In exercising both our bodies & our faith we need encouragement.  In the Old Testament, there is a story of Asa, King of Judah, who was faced with what was best or what was easiest.  Choosing what has best would take exercising his faith- boldly doing what was unpopular.   God sent encouragement through the prophet Azariah, to pump him up, saying: "But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be reward,”(2 Chron 15:7) Kent, my husband, has encouraged me not to give up. I try to encourage him. He too, has resumed a workout after a long hiatus.  

The Apostle Paul, likened living our faith to a race. I get that.  Not in the speed ('cause the kindergartners would win), but in the endurance.  To keep going.  It's hard sometimes.  Eph 6:13 talks about being able to stand your ground. "...having done everything, to stand." When working out, often I have to change my pace.  Slow down, or stop for a bit- and that's okay.  'Cause, as with faith, I think the point is not to lose ground.

So, what's in it for me?  Much! The Apostle Paul wrote about our receiving a reward- a crown of life.  That word for crown means that of a victor, not royalty.  This wreath twisted with perhaps ivy, laurel  or oak signified reward and victory for those competing according to the rules (2 Ti 2:5).  I wonder if we need to remember that our reward is the results that come from the race- strength, endurance... a healthier pulse.  Now, I'm not saying the scale has changed- but my endurance, attitude, & spirit has improved greatly.  In the midst of strengthening my body, my spirit is also strengthening.  Even on the very grind of the treadmill, I can learn some of the eternal truths of the life Christ came to bring.

So far I've continued; reaping the rewards of it.  I'm learning it's about doing it- finishing what I started.   When I say "I did it." I mean I've come out a victor... that day.

No really, be still...

My mug from Sue!

I entered Christmas break feeling "spent." Drained. Empty.  I was exhausted- physically and spiritually.  Like so many I know, I had been running on the daily treadmill of life and it felt like someone had cranked up the speed to "Maximum."  Oh, it was all great stuff, really- being Mom; attending concerts & sporting events; leading Bible Study,Youth Group, & Sunday School... the list goes on.  Unfortunately, the very obligations that I love were draining me dry.  "I'm so tired..." I would say, as I grabbed what I needed for the next item on my calendar and ran out the door.