Saturday, December 24, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Being in the "Christmas spirit/mood"
As the holiday season(s) approach...starting at Thanksgiving...people begin to get "in the spirit" or maybe they don't. It's not uncommon for some people to say: "man, it's Thanksgiving already?" "It's November already?" "Christmas is only a month away??" "It just doesn't feel like Christmas time." "I'm just not in the Christmas spirit." "I'm not really in the Christmas mood." And it's not that they don't like Christmas or Thanksgiving; in fact it may be their favorite season(s). So, why are they feeling this way? And how does one get in the "mood" or "spirit"? And while we're at it; some of you may be asking..."what the heck are you talking about? and what the heck is the "spirit and mood" you're talking about?Well...
Perhaps, they feel unprepared ; maybe they're just so busy, they haven't had time to spend time baking and getting presents, and spend time with family. Maybe they're so busy, they haven't had time to sit down and reflect on the holiday season, and take time to take it all in, to cherish it. Maybe they've lost loved ones, and they just can't focus on the holidays, maybe it hurts too much? Perhaps, the weather isn't cold enough outside; maybe it just (literally) doesn't feel like Thanksgiving/Christmas time? Maybe you haven't cooked enough holiday foods/treats, spent enough time with family, done enough "holiday activities"? Maybe you have no idea why you're feeling this way. Well, let's see...what is this "spirit" I'm talking about anyways? When Christmas time comes, people tend to be happier, in a better mood. They get happy about all the Christmas music, they get excited about decorating their houses for Thanksgiving and Christmas. They get this happy feeling inside of them, they are "ready" for the holidays; they are in said in "holiday spirit"; they have this feeling about them.
And how, you may be asking, does one get in this mood if they aren't already. Do they sing lots of Christmas songs and wear awesome Christmas sweaters? Do they dive into the Bible and read more of the Christmas story? Do the spend time reflecting and praying? Do they spend more time with family? Do they go shopping ahead of time so they don't feel rushed, thus they feel more prepared, thus it puts them in the Christmas mood?
Well, I have provided a lot of possible answers to these stated question. But, I don't have an exact answer. I have just been hearing people say they aren't in the Christmas mood; they just aren't feeling like it should be Christmas time. And I'm with them. And getting more in the Christmas mood as I read the Christmas story again and listen to Christmas music. I love Christmas, but for some reason it just doesn't seem like it's time for Christmas. I mean, they are decorations in my house; the tree is decorated, and there are presents under the tree. I'm on Christmas Break from school. I've been to Christmas parties. I have been slacking on my Christmas shopping and haven't listened to as much Christmas music as I'd lack. And the weather isn't all that cold for this time of year. I have been praying that this Christmas season, we would be more focused on Christ, family, and serving, and much less about all the presents we can gather. Because it IS about Christ, period. We get so caught up in everything else. But, that's another blog post for another time ;).
So, I can't clearly define for you the Christmas spirit. I can't definitely tell you why people don't feel in the spirit, or definitely how we remedy this. I would like to be able to. I merely just wanted to write out my thoughts. Perhaps you (whoever you may be, if anyone is reading this), would like to share your thoughts.
Blessings,
Perhaps, they feel unprepared ; maybe they're just so busy, they haven't had time to spend time baking and getting presents, and spend time with family. Maybe they're so busy, they haven't had time to sit down and reflect on the holiday season, and take time to take it all in, to cherish it. Maybe they've lost loved ones, and they just can't focus on the holidays, maybe it hurts too much? Perhaps, the weather isn't cold enough outside; maybe it just (literally) doesn't feel like Thanksgiving/Christmas time? Maybe you haven't cooked enough holiday foods/treats, spent enough time with family, done enough "holiday activities"? Maybe you have no idea why you're feeling this way. Well, let's see...what is this "spirit" I'm talking about anyways? When Christmas time comes, people tend to be happier, in a better mood. They get happy about all the Christmas music, they get excited about decorating their houses for Thanksgiving and Christmas. They get this happy feeling inside of them, they are "ready" for the holidays; they are in said in "holiday spirit"; they have this feeling about them.
And how, you may be asking, does one get in this mood if they aren't already. Do they sing lots of Christmas songs and wear awesome Christmas sweaters? Do they dive into the Bible and read more of the Christmas story? Do the spend time reflecting and praying? Do they spend more time with family? Do they go shopping ahead of time so they don't feel rushed, thus they feel more prepared, thus it puts them in the Christmas mood?
Well, I have provided a lot of possible answers to these stated question. But, I don't have an exact answer. I have just been hearing people say they aren't in the Christmas mood; they just aren't feeling like it should be Christmas time. And I'm with them. And getting more in the Christmas mood as I read the Christmas story again and listen to Christmas music. I love Christmas, but for some reason it just doesn't seem like it's time for Christmas. I mean, they are decorations in my house; the tree is decorated, and there are presents under the tree. I'm on Christmas Break from school. I've been to Christmas parties. I have been slacking on my Christmas shopping and haven't listened to as much Christmas music as I'd lack. And the weather isn't all that cold for this time of year. I have been praying that this Christmas season, we would be more focused on Christ, family, and serving, and much less about all the presents we can gather. Because it IS about Christ, period. We get so caught up in everything else. But, that's another blog post for another time ;).
So, I can't clearly define for you the Christmas spirit. I can't definitely tell you why people don't feel in the spirit, or definitely how we remedy this. I would like to be able to. I merely just wanted to write out my thoughts. Perhaps you (whoever you may be, if anyone is reading this), would like to share your thoughts.
Blessings,
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
A poem.
A poem I wrote some time ago. It's called Simplicity.
It’s there, it always has been, even at the beginning
We just have to come back to it,
It can be found, it is there,
Really, it’s all around us
We have to be willing to let go and let it consume us,
We would all be better off if we did that.
There is none that is as powerful as He, none that even stand close,
We like to make our names high and boast in our goodness,
But really we’re called to become small and humble,
To lose every bit of power we may have or seem to think we have.
By no stretch of the imagination is it easy,
To become less, so He can become more,
But by every stretch of the imagination, it is possible.
We get so worried about things around us, we lose that factor that has always been there,
That simplicity.
It’s in the beauty around us, but we get so caught up, we get so distracted,
We forget it and lose it.
But it is attainable, it always has been.
It may not be as easy now to get as it was but my all means it is still possible.
Oh let us become silent and wrapped up in the beauty that’s out there.
Let us get away from the distractions and the hindrances that entangle us.
Let us trust in You
Let us allow You to captivate us
So that our focus is completely on You,
There is no room for anything else,
No room for worries, anxieties, stresses,
Just us and You,
There is nothing hard or complicated about that.
For if we could just come back to the beginning where it all started,
And see that all this nonsense isn’t necessary,
It’s not needed, nor is it wanted,
It has bogged our minds and pulled us down for too long,
Surely we do want to fix this.
It’ll be tough, but yes, it will be worth it.
Perhaps we’re so caught up, that we’ve forgotten that it’s there,
And maybe we’re scared and maybe we’re comfortable.
We may not want to work at it.
But oh, if we can bring it back, oh how it’ll be worth it,
Of course, we don’t have what it takes to do it ourselves,
We aren’t supposed to that is why He is here.
Oh let us lean on Him, reach out our small hand and grab on to His.
After all, that is all that has been required of us,
To reach out our hand.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Grace is Sufficient-Shane and Shane
What are you gonna do
When the doctor comes
Into the waiting room
Puts his hand on you
And says I'm sorry?
What are you gonna say to God
When all you do is pray to God
To take the thorn away?
And all you hear Him say is:
My grace, My grace
My grace is sufficient
My grace is sufficient[x2]
What are you gonna do
When your neighbor walks
Into your living room
And you to tell him
Who could deliver them
Like He delivered you?
Courtesy of lyricshall.com
What are you gonna say to God
When all you do is pray to God
For them to know His name
And all you hear Him say is:
My grace, My grace
My grace is sufficient
My grace is sufficient
[x2]
My grace, My grace
My grace is sufficient
My grace is sufficient[x4]
It's all you need
What are you gonna say to God
When everything you prayed to God
Came your way but you forgot to thank Him?
And all you hear Him say is
My grace
When the doctor comes
Into the waiting room
Puts his hand on you
And says I'm sorry?
What are you gonna say to God
When all you do is pray to God
To take the thorn away?
And all you hear Him say is:
My grace, My grace
My grace is sufficient
My grace is sufficient[x2]
What are you gonna do
When your neighbor walks
Into your living room
And you to tell him
Who could deliver them
Like He delivered you?
Courtesy of lyricshall.com
What are you gonna say to God
When all you do is pray to God
For them to know His name
And all you hear Him say is:
My grace, My grace
My grace is sufficient
My grace is sufficient
[x2]
My grace, My grace
My grace is sufficient
My grace is sufficient[x4]
It's all you need
What are you gonna say to God
When everything you prayed to God
Came your way but you forgot to thank Him?
And all you hear Him say is
My grace
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Quotes of the day
--"Right now Jesus comes beside me and He says, I dare you to trust. I dare you to trust that I love you, just as you are and not as you should be, because you're never going to be as you should be."--
“No; do not hide in the earth the talent God hath given you.” P. Bohler
“No; do not hide in the earth the talent God hath given you.” P. Bohler
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
Friday, November 25, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Power
For awhile now, the concept of God's power has been resonating in my mind and in my heart. The beautiful truth is, as Christians we have God's power dwelling inside of us. I know for me, I don't forget this truth, but I don't think I live in this truth often enough or let it hold the stock it deserves. I'm not sure why I take this for granted. God's power is within me, with God there is not one thing that is impossible. I need to start living like I know and understand how wonderful it is that I have God's power residing in me. I tend to give up or get so overwhelmed with what I'm dealing with. Life is hard and will continue to be hard, but God has given us very very precious tools and gifts we need to use to help us! And through using those we can overcome and bring glory to Him in result of. Now, I am in no way saying I am as powerful as God. But in God's Word, we see where it tells us that He gives us power.
But as for me, I am filled with power,
with the Spirit of the LORD,
and with justice and might,
to declare to Jacob his transgression,
to Israel his sin. Micah 3:8
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
2 timothy 1:7
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, Ephesians 3:16
God has given us power, to overcome. I pray that I would live in that truth, that I have been clothed in power and strength and dignity (Proverbs 31). And I pray that I would live in the truth that God is sufficient; He is enough. I often live that I don't believe that, I get caught up in what's going on in my life or in the world around me and doubt and perhaps forget that My God is enough, beyond enough. Nothing is too hard, too "silly", too small, too big for Him. Thank You Jesus.
But as for me, I am filled with power,
with the Spirit of the LORD,
and with justice and might,
to declare to Jacob his transgression,
to Israel his sin. Micah 3:8
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
2 timothy 1:7
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, Ephesians 3:16
God has given us power, to overcome. I pray that I would live in that truth, that I have been clothed in power and strength and dignity (Proverbs 31). And I pray that I would live in the truth that God is sufficient; He is enough. I often live that I don't believe that, I get caught up in what's going on in my life or in the world around me and doubt and perhaps forget that My God is enough, beyond enough. Nothing is too hard, too "silly", too small, too big for Him. Thank You Jesus.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Sweet Illumination
"...that I may gaze upon His face...oh to know this man...." -Shane and Shane ("Sweet Illuminaton")
I have recently fallen in love with the first part of this line, "that I may gaze upon His face." It's just so sweet and peaceful and wonderful and powerful, in fact. And not that I didn't find the second part important, I just hadn't focused on it. Until now. As I listened to it a few minutes ago, I began to think, what if I made this line my prayer for my life? What if I strived to live like my goal was to see Jesus/ to know Him in a way I can't know Him now because I am only human? I just feel like my life would look differently; I feel like my life would be more intentional, more sweeter; I feel like I wouldn't waste my time as much. I just feel like my perspective would be much different. No, I still wouldn't be perfect. But, I feel like my desires would be more focused on the Lord ( not that they aren't already, but they would be more so). I just feel like if I lived like I was going to see Him and spend time with Him (literally in the presence of Jesus), I would live differently. Yes, I am going to see Him one day, but what if I changed the way I lived, living like I could see Him any minute? Wouldn't I spend more time in prayer? And in His Word? Praising Him? Spend more time with Him (here on Earth)?
Also, I feel like we, and myself forgot that Jesus is with us now, all the time, everywhere; wouldn't I act differently if I stop forgetting this?
I dunno, (if anyone is reading this), this may be making no sense at all. It's confusing to understand. But, this is what I thought of as I listened to this line.
Also, I pray that it is my desire to gaze upon His face, to know Jesus better than I know Him now, to grow in my relationship with Him, to know Him more, to grow closer with Him. To desire Him more. To yearn for Him (Yearn happens to be another Shane and Shane song).
*If anyone reads this, I would love to know your thoughts, even if it's "I have no idea what you just said." :P
-KW
I have recently fallen in love with the first part of this line, "that I may gaze upon His face." It's just so sweet and peaceful and wonderful and powerful, in fact. And not that I didn't find the second part important, I just hadn't focused on it. Until now. As I listened to it a few minutes ago, I began to think, what if I made this line my prayer for my life? What if I strived to live like my goal was to see Jesus/ to know Him in a way I can't know Him now because I am only human? I just feel like my life would look differently; I feel like my life would be more intentional, more sweeter; I feel like I wouldn't waste my time as much. I just feel like my perspective would be much different. No, I still wouldn't be perfect. But, I feel like my desires would be more focused on the Lord ( not that they aren't already, but they would be more so). I just feel like if I lived like I was going to see Him and spend time with Him (literally in the presence of Jesus), I would live differently. Yes, I am going to see Him one day, but what if I changed the way I lived, living like I could see Him any minute? Wouldn't I spend more time in prayer? And in His Word? Praising Him? Spend more time with Him (here on Earth)?
Also, I feel like we, and myself forgot that Jesus is with us now, all the time, everywhere; wouldn't I act differently if I stop forgetting this?
I dunno, (if anyone is reading this), this may be making no sense at all. It's confusing to understand. But, this is what I thought of as I listened to this line.
Also, I pray that it is my desire to gaze upon His face, to know Jesus better than I know Him now, to grow in my relationship with Him, to know Him more, to grow closer with Him. To desire Him more. To yearn for Him (Yearn happens to be another Shane and Shane song).
*If anyone reads this, I would love to know your thoughts, even if it's "I have no idea what you just said." :P
-KW
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
great truth
A great quote whenever we're in tough situations:
"I know better than this. I know this situation doesn't have the power to define or diminish me. Why on earth do I let it? Because it makes me feel weak. And a little defenseless. And blast it, I'm not." -B. Moore
"Whatever you do, don't reject the only One wholly incapable of rejecting you." B. Moore
I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. Isaiah 41:9-10
"I know better than this. I know this situation doesn't have the power to define or diminish me. Why on earth do I let it? Because it makes me feel weak. And a little defenseless. And blast it, I'm not." -B. Moore
"Whatever you do, don't reject the only One wholly incapable of rejecting you." B. Moore
I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. Isaiah 41:9-10
Sunday, October 30, 2011
a thought
I have realized that people (myself included) tend to be comfortable with being miserable (whatever the situation may be). Odd wording, I know. But when you think about it, we know that our circumstances need to change and we could very well take the steps to change them, but the challenge at hand is scary as all get out and incredibly hard, so instead of being pro-active we don't do anything, thus we continue to be miserable, dare I say "comfortable with being miserable." Of course, we don't like being miserable, absolutely not, but we also fear gets in the way and we fall back. It's so frustrating to think about. It is my prayer that we would seek God for the strength we need and face the challenge head on. After all, Satan loves when we have the attitude of being "comfortable with being miserable". I pray that's plenty of motivation to struggle through the challenge and end in victory!!
"the Power of Christ in me."-"In Christ Alone"
"He knows it's scary to be us."-Beth Moore
"He's got what we need. It's up to us whether or not we're going to let the worst of us get the best of us."-Beth Moore
"The truth is, God uses change to change us. He doesn't use it to destroy us or distract us but to coax us to the next level of character, experience, compassion, and destiny. I hate to display such a firm grasp of the obvious, but how will we ever change if everything around us stays the same? Or what will ever cause us to move on to the next place He has for us if something doesn't happen to change the way we feel about where we are? God is thoroughly committed to finishing the masterpiece He started in us (Phil 1:6), and that process means one major thing: change." -Beth Moore
"Be the change you wish to see in the world." -Ghandi
"the Power of Christ in me."-"In Christ Alone"
"He knows it's scary to be us."-Beth Moore
"He's got what we need. It's up to us whether or not we're going to let the worst of us get the best of us."-Beth Moore
"The truth is, God uses change to change us. He doesn't use it to destroy us or distract us but to coax us to the next level of character, experience, compassion, and destiny. I hate to display such a firm grasp of the obvious, but how will we ever change if everything around us stays the same? Or what will ever cause us to move on to the next place He has for us if something doesn't happen to change the way we feel about where we are? God is thoroughly committed to finishing the masterpiece He started in us (Phil 1:6), and that process means one major thing: change." -Beth Moore
"Be the change you wish to see in the world." -Ghandi
Friday, August 19, 2011
A poem
This is a poem a friend of mine and I wrote about 3 years ago; I read it again last night and just thought I would share.
It sparkles, it shines, it's blinding like a shining star bursting with light.
It's filled with wonder and beauty.
It pulses with joy and warmth.
It just rips through with delicate strokes, swiftly making a magnificent influence.
It casts worries aside.
It isnt caring about what's around it.
It travels any distance, long or short, and breaks all barriers.
It does not look back, only does it look ahead.
It is as calm as the night, as sure as the sunrise, and mighty as the wind.
It is bold, it is beautiful, it is confident.
It conquers confusion with a beautiful dance.
It so radiantly and innocently does a sweet but powerful dance,
each careful step reveals it's intentions.
With each one of those steps it blows a most magnificent wind that embraces you with wonderful scent, knocking you back with a wonderful and gentle thrust showering you with a gentle rain of serenity.
It causes you just to fall back and gaze at that beauty;
your heart glows, it can't help skipping a beat ;it almost explodes as it surrenders to let You hold its hand, and let you captivate .
With each glance, with each embrace, a smile grows, but it's more than a smile.
It's an unfathomable and uncompatible love that casts away pretension,
that casts away fear and shame,and reaches through your skin, to hold your heart in the palm of its hand.
It consumes you, captivates you, takes you over.
If you let it it'll interweave within you, within your soul and plant the seeds of unconditional love and compassion as it holds your hand.
It is the love of our Father in Heaven who absolutely adores us;
He takes pleasure in seeing us happy and glorifying His name.
His fingerprints are everywhere even in the darkest places.
It is that hope that we can cling to, that we must cling to.
We have no other option, we must cling to this wonderful and magnificent love He has shown us.
May we see His beauty and love through the midst of the good and the bad,
oh may we soak it in and lay back against Him.
And oh may we let Him guide us through our journey, be it to the highest of sunny mountains or to the depths of the heart of darkness.
His love is as a lighthouse, guiding us weary sailors of the sea of life to the shore of Heaven.
Oh how it longs to let us make Him the leader of our life.
Oh that we may accept this wonderous love and let Him guide us.
May this love He has shown us be shown throughout this world of darkness.
-KW and NA
It's filled with wonder and beauty.
It pulses with joy and warmth.
It just rips through with delicate strokes, swiftly making a magnificent influence.
It casts worries aside.
It isnt caring about what's around it.
It travels any distance, long or short, and breaks all barriers.
It does not look back, only does it look ahead.
It is as calm as the night, as sure as the sunrise, and mighty as the wind.
It is bold, it is beautiful, it is confident.
It conquers confusion with a beautiful dance.
It so radiantly and innocently does a sweet but powerful dance,
each careful step reveals it's intentions.
With each one of those steps it blows a most magnificent wind that embraces you with wonderful scent, knocking you back with a wonderful and gentle thrust showering you with a gentle rain of serenity.
It causes you just to fall back and gaze at that beauty;
your heart glows, it can't help skipping a beat ;it almost explodes as it surrenders to let You hold its hand, and let you captivate .
With each glance, with each embrace, a smile grows, but it's more than a smile.
It's an unfathomable and uncompatible love that casts away pretension,
that casts away fear and shame,and reaches through your skin, to hold your heart in the palm of its hand.
It consumes you, captivates you, takes you over.
If you let it it'll interweave within you, within your soul and plant the seeds of unconditional love and compassion as it holds your hand.
It is the love of our Father in Heaven who absolutely adores us;
He takes pleasure in seeing us happy and glorifying His name.
His fingerprints are everywhere even in the darkest places.
It is that hope that we can cling to, that we must cling to.
We have no other option, we must cling to this wonderful and magnificent love He has shown us.
May we see His beauty and love through the midst of the good and the bad,
oh may we soak it in and lay back against Him.
And oh may we let Him guide us through our journey, be it to the highest of sunny mountains or to the depths of the heart of darkness.
His love is as a lighthouse, guiding us weary sailors of the sea of life to the shore of Heaven.
Oh how it longs to let us make Him the leader of our life.
Oh that we may accept this wonderous love and let Him guide us.
May this love He has shown us be shown throughout this world of darkness.
-KW and NA
Monday, May 2, 2011
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Untitled
Like a touch of velvet, she walks alone
and waits silently by the phone.
Her mother brings her hands to pray.
her father didnt come home today.
Inside of her, she feels so much,
so much, that it’s almost unbearable,
but to everyone else it can only be heard half as loud.
so much, that it’s almost unbearable,
but to everyone else it can only be heard half as loud.
She feels so lost in the crowd,
and in the silence, there is a voice,
and in each moment there is a choice;
that voice never goes away, sometimes it’s loud, sometimes it’s soft.
It's always there...it's her pulse...it keep her..going.
But often times she ignores it, she keeps it inside,
instead of letting others feel the effects of it.
She walks through her memories,
portraits of who she used to be,
the playground where she scraped her knee,
surrounded all at once by her innocence, she sighs.
She is reminded, of that feeling she had,
that feeling of freedom, of being her, of being herself,
where nothing could touch her,
or so it seemed...she is reminded of that part of her that is still within,
it's still there, it hasn't gone away.
She feels it every single day,
except sometimes that pulse is so faint even on the inside,
but it's still there. As she remembers her feeling of freedom,
the pulse is stronger and stronger.
Oh, how she longs to let others feel it too.
The world around her has changed,
her friends goals have rearranged,
the twenty somethings hide the child inside,
but the laughter will never die
While reality hits, while it is hard,
she holds on to something much more powerful than hurt,
than the mess of the world, than the thoughts that tend to consume her..
it is the hope that keeps her alive, that keeps her pulse going,
that keeps the laughter alive, that keeps the smiles coming.
KW and NA
Monday, April 25, 2011
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
JJ Heller - Love Me
I think this is probably my all time favorite song by her... it's definitely good stuff for real!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Saturday, April 16, 2011
American Tongues Excerpt - Part 1
I had to watch this for a class.
It's pretty interesting.
Check it out.
It's pretty interesting.
Check it out.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Saturday, April 9, 2011
127 hours
So, I watched 127 hours last night. If you haven't seen it, you should. It's pretty crazy. It's based on a true story about a guy named Aron Ralston (played by James Franco). In 2003, he went to Utah and he went down Blue John Canyon, which is a slot canyon...not very wide at all. When he was going down the canyon, a boulder got loose and pinned his right hand between the boulder and the wall of the canyon. His hand was stuck. He tried everything he could to get his hand loose, but nothing worked. Aron was in the canyon for 6 days (127 hours)...he was dehydrated, hungry, his body was shutting down; Aron Ralston was slowly dying. He had one last option to get his arm free...to cut it loose. He broke it in two places and then cut it loose. I won't give you all the details, watch it for yourself! Also, below I am posting an interview (part 1 of 6) Aron had with Tom Brocaw of NBC news. Aron's story is pretty mind blowing!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
LOVE.
Matthew 3:43-44 You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.'But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
Matthew 19:19 honour your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbour as yourself.'
Matthew 22:37 Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'
Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.
We, as believers in Jesus Christ are commanded to love God and to love people. It seems though that it's easy to say "love God and love people" and to believe that is what we are supposed to do, but to actually strive to do and to do it with all our heart, and to do it like God loves us and how Christ loves the church is a different story. I am reminded when I struggle with loving certain people how hard loving can be and that I need to fully rely on God to help me to love people how He loves us. Also, while I love people very much and am passionate about caring for people I have been reminded recently how important the act of love is. When I look at the world and all the hurt that is within, I see the great need for love. There is a lot more hurt than we realize. And when we love on those people and we are in relationship with those people, something beautiful happens. I love it when God gives me the opportunity to talk with people that I know and already have a good relationship with and then people I hardly know on a deeper level; I love being able to see their heart. Love is very important, after all it is commanded of us as Christians. I pray that I will continue to grow in my love towards others and my love towards God. We need God to help us, we can't do it on our own. Imagine the love that will be shared, if we let God take control. We need to love, and we need to be loved.
Matthew 19:19 honour your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbour as yourself.'
Matthew 22:37 Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'
Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.
We, as believers in Jesus Christ are commanded to love God and to love people. It seems though that it's easy to say "love God and love people" and to believe that is what we are supposed to do, but to actually strive to do and to do it with all our heart, and to do it like God loves us and how Christ loves the church is a different story. I am reminded when I struggle with loving certain people how hard loving can be and that I need to fully rely on God to help me to love people how He loves us. Also, while I love people very much and am passionate about caring for people I have been reminded recently how important the act of love is. When I look at the world and all the hurt that is within, I see the great need for love. There is a lot more hurt than we realize. And when we love on those people and we are in relationship with those people, something beautiful happens. I love it when God gives me the opportunity to talk with people that I know and already have a good relationship with and then people I hardly know on a deeper level; I love being able to see their heart. Love is very important, after all it is commanded of us as Christians. I pray that I will continue to grow in my love towards others and my love towards God. We need God to help us, we can't do it on our own. Imagine the love that will be shared, if we let God take control. We need to love, and we need to be loved.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
SPRING!
Tomorrow is the first day of spring!! I am so very excited. In honor of spring, I shall share a little writing and some pics.
I wrote this about 2 years ago:
These don't exactly go with the theme, but I thought they were sweet :). They are springish colors though!ha
I wrote this about 2 years ago:
I don’t write about nature much, but I’ve been really lovin’ it lately, so I think today I will, so we’ll see what happens.
Something about flowers just makes me happy, especially those you make into a bouquet.
Flowers are such a simple beauty that God created for us to admire.
Well, I guess not only to admire, I guess they do serve a purpose for insects as well.
But, just a think about it, something so simple as a flower, but so beautiful.
This significant beauty, that’s what I’ll call it, is significant.
It has to be, at least that’s what I think. Why would our God create it if it wasn’t a least bit significant?
Flowers don’t have to do much, but sit in the ground or in a vase, but they are still fulfilling a purpose.
Flowers have a certain charm about them. They are just so pretty! Next time you’re driving down a road and see some on the side of the road, take a second to gaze at them. However, don’t take too long to look, because you don’t want to wreck! The next time you pass by a flower shop, step in for a second.
When you’re out in your mother or grandmother’s garden, take some time to look around and take in the beauty and the sweet scent that flower’s give out. It’s just an interesting thought, flowers.
I’ve loved flowers for awhile, but have never taken a whole lot of time to dwell on the idea of their existence. Oh, I can’t wait until the day comes when I can have a beautiful wedding bouquet or the day when I can have lots of flowers in my very own garden. It’s going to be wonderful!
Wow, that was really kind of cheesy haha, but aren't flowers great?! :)
Yay Spring! :)
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Isaiah 53
1 Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?
2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
7He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.
8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away. And who can speak of his descendants? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was stricken.
9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.
10Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.
11 After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
Luke 2:25-35
25Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required,
28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
29 "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."
33The child's father and mother marvelled at what was said about him.
34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against,
35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."
1 Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?
2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
7He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.
8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away. And who can speak of his descendants? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was stricken.
9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.
10Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.
11 After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
Luke 2:25-35
25Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required,
28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
29 "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace.
30 For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31 which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."
33The child's father and mother marvelled at what was said about him.
34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against,
35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."
Thursday, March 10, 2011
He Will Come-Enter the Worship Circle
He Will Come
Karla Adolphe
Verse:
My heart is waiting inside it's fading
And the leaves they won't stop falling
Days grow shorter, nights are longer
Winter wraps its arms around me
Chorus:
(You said) Wait child
I'm in love with you
It's a solemn vow
I'll come back for you
Bridge:
He will come as surely as the sun bursts into light
He will come until then I will keep my lamp burning bright
He will come, He will come
Some Lit.-recent and not
It’s there, it always has been, even at the beginning
We just have to come back to it,
It can be found, it is there,
Really, it’s all around us
We have to be willing to let go and let it consume us,
We would all be better off if we did that.
There is none that is as powerful as He, none that even stand close,
We like to make our names high and boast in our goodness,
But really we’re called to become small and humble,
To lose every bit of power we may have or seem to think we have.
By no stretch of the imagination is it easy,
To become less, so He can become more,
But by every stretch of the imagination, it is possible.
We get so worried about things around us, we lose that factor that has always been there,
That simplicity.
It’s in the beauty around us, but we get so caught up, we get so distracted,
We forget it and lose it.
But it is attainable, it always has been.
It may not be as easy now to get as it was but my all means it is still possible.
Oh let us become silent and wrapped up in the beauty that’s out there.
Let us get away from the distractions and the hindrances that entangle us.
Let us trust in You
Let us allow You to captivate us
So that our focus is completely on You,
There is no room for anything else,
No room for worries, anxieties, stresses,
Just us and You,
There is nothing hard or complicated about that.
For if we could just come back to the beginning where it all started,
And see that all this nonsense isn’t necessary,
It’s not needed, nor is it wanted,
It has bogged our minds and pulled us down for too long,
Surely we do want to fix this.
It’ll be tough, but yes, it will be worth it.
Perhaps we’re so caught up, that we’ve forgotten that it’s there,
And maybe we’re scared and maybe we’re comfortable.
We may not want to work at it.
But oh, if we can bring it back, oh how it’ll be worth it,
Of course, we don’t have what it takes to do it ourselves,
We aren’t supposed to that is why He is here.
Oh let us lean on Him, reach out our small hand and grab on to His.
After all, that is all that has been required of us,
To reach out our hand.
KW
In a locked and guarded place
lies the innocence we dear to trust;
it shines in a young child’s face
and is too beautiful to ever rust.
That innocence that we so secretly long for
is so evident in that child's face;
its radiance is inescapably noticeable.
We desire it so much.
We hold that desire deep inside,
so deep that sometimes we forget about it
and lose our way.
But the children know the way,
and their song is love.
The children aren't afraid to sing
and to do it so everyone can hear.
Although their spirit is spilling out,
among everyone,
not everyone can hear, see, or even feel it.
They are deaf to hear the child's song.
And when a child fears,
he fears in the open.
And when a child loves,
there are no rules.
Why must we fear in hiding?
Why must our love have rules?
Our fear is entangling us;
our insecurities are choking us,
keeping us from feeling, from singing.
We need to stop and remember that song of old,
that song the child sings.
So where ever you are,
lying awake, worrying about money,
at the bedside of an ailing friend,
in an empty bar wondering where your life went,
fear not to sing the children’s song.
The song is love,
the dance is innocence.
The children know the way
And there is great freedom in that way.
Let go and trust the love
and innocence their song provides.
They have something we don't.
they are humble and their way
can lead to the ways everlasting.
There’s a simple and sweet note they write.
Their song is calming and refreshing.
If we've stopped listening
or become numb to the feeling of innocence,
let us not fret, it isn’t too late.
Take heart, there is hope.
Get up, listen to the Savior,
become like that child your soul longs to be.
NA and KW
< 
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
None of you (if anyone is reading this) may be interested in reading the following (bc of how interesting the topic is ;)), but this is my blog and I'm free to write whatever I want, whether any one desires to read it or not ;), (however it does it make more worth while if I know some one is actually reading it hehe) nonetheless, I shall write the following one way or another.
I have decided to take a break from facebook, yes once again. I gave my password to a friend so she'll change it, that way I have no option, but to stay off facebook. And I will say, it hasn't even been 24 hours and I'm already having withdrawls...how pathetic is that, seriously? haha. I have to have access to interaction with mankind at all times, apparently. However, I do think this will be beneficial. I wonder how long I'll be able to do this? Last time I did it for more than three weeks (quite the accomplishment for me). We shall see how long I go this time. Facebook is a distraction and an extreme waste of time, so I'm thinking this will be worth my while.
Deuces (that's prounced Doo-ses)
I have decided to take a break from facebook, yes once again. I gave my password to a friend so she'll change it, that way I have no option, but to stay off facebook. And I will say, it hasn't even been 24 hours and I'm already having withdrawls...how pathetic is that, seriously? haha. I have to have access to interaction with mankind at all times, apparently. However, I do think this will be beneficial. I wonder how long I'll be able to do this? Last time I did it for more than three weeks (quite the accomplishment for me). We shall see how long I go this time. Facebook is a distraction and an extreme waste of time, so I'm thinking this will be worth my while.
Deuces (that's prounced Doo-ses)
Monday, March 7, 2011
My Constant
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBtpqFIH7q0
It's such a cool reminder that God gives me... He is my constant. He stays the same, he doesn't waver. His grace, love, and mercy stay the same. God isn't moody, nor is He circumstantial. He is not gonna stop listening because I've made him mad. God won't turn His back on me because I've made some stupid decision. This life is full of disappointment, full of unsteadiness. Things happen unexpectable...tragedies happen...people get sick, accidents occur; all kinds of hurt happens that cause us to go into disarray. While all this is going on, God is there and He is the same as He always has been and always will be. We are surrounded by people whose moods change (including ourselves) and we have to somehow adjust to that. Well, with God we don't have to do that...we can always count on God. It's just been a real encouraging thought, to know that God is constant. My God doesn't change. Think about that...think about all that changes in our world...the attitudes of people, the tragedies that occur, etc. etc. God remains the same. He remains faithful. He doesn't change His mind. He keeps His promises. We can see throughout the Bible where prophecies were fulfilled...God kept His promises. Jesus will one day return...yet another prophecy will be fulfilled...yet another promise kept. He consistent, as well. Such a beautiful thought :).
It's such a cool reminder that God gives me... He is my constant. He stays the same, he doesn't waver. His grace, love, and mercy stay the same. God isn't moody, nor is He circumstantial. He is not gonna stop listening because I've made him mad. God won't turn His back on me because I've made some stupid decision. This life is full of disappointment, full of unsteadiness. Things happen unexpectable...tragedies happen...people get sick, accidents occur; all kinds of hurt happens that cause us to go into disarray. While all this is going on, God is there and He is the same as He always has been and always will be. We are surrounded by people whose moods change (including ourselves) and we have to somehow adjust to that. Well, with God we don't have to do that...we can always count on God. It's just been a real encouraging thought, to know that God is constant. My God doesn't change. Think about that...think about all that changes in our world...the attitudes of people, the tragedies that occur, etc. etc. God remains the same. He remains faithful. He doesn't change His mind. He keeps His promises. We can see throughout the Bible where prophecies were fulfilled...God kept His promises. Jesus will one day return...yet another prophecy will be fulfilled...yet another promise kept. He consistent, as well. Such a beautiful thought :).
Monday, February 28, 2011
This is JJ Heller's song Your Hands. It's so great! And so is she! If you aren't familiar with her, you def. gotta check her out! Such a blessing!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlL8LayF0uw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlL8LayF0uw
"Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires which war against your soul." 1 Peter 2:11
So, it seems that I am constantly reminded that this world is not my home, in fact I am stranger to it. I do live in the world, it's not like I am in a bubble (but not of the world). But, I have hope that one I will leave this filth of a place to join my Father in my Heaven for eternity; Heaven is my home. When life gets tough and discouraging I am reminded that I am a stranger in the world, even an alien (not the weird green things ha, but an immigrant). I have hope that one day things will great and it will last forever. I wasn't just born into this world without hope, as a believer I know that one day things will be perfect. I don't have to be hopeless in thinking that "life doesn't get any better than this!" Because in fact it does! :). I am stranger in this world.
Also, as a stranger in this world, I am to abstain from sinful desires, which WAGE WAR AGAINST my SOUL...how freakin' infuriating is that? My sin can stick it! Oh that's annoying. Take this sin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs1Sq7M7cIU (isn't Christian rap so great? lol)
But the thing is, THANKFULLY we have a father who has DEFEATED sin and although we still sin he ADORES us and is here to help us fight temptation to sin and forgive us when we do. I pray that I will continue to be reminded of this. In fact, I hope the truth of this will seap into my very being (yeah that sounded a little weird, but for real!lol) Also, as a believer, as a stranger in this world, I am called to love God and love people, to bring Glory to God, to be obedient to the Holy Spirit; it is my prayer that as I continue to grow that God would make this a deeper desire in my heart.
Blessings,
So, it seems that I am constantly reminded that this world is not my home, in fact I am stranger to it. I do live in the world, it's not like I am in a bubble (but not of the world). But, I have hope that one I will leave this filth of a place to join my Father in my Heaven for eternity; Heaven is my home. When life gets tough and discouraging I am reminded that I am a stranger in the world, even an alien (not the weird green things ha, but an immigrant). I have hope that one day things will great and it will last forever. I wasn't just born into this world without hope, as a believer I know that one day things will be perfect. I don't have to be hopeless in thinking that "life doesn't get any better than this!" Because in fact it does! :). I am stranger in this world.
Also, as a stranger in this world, I am to abstain from sinful desires, which WAGE WAR AGAINST my SOUL...how freakin' infuriating is that? My sin can stick it! Oh that's annoying. Take this sin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs1Sq7M7cIU (isn't Christian rap so great? lol)
But the thing is, THANKFULLY we have a father who has DEFEATED sin and although we still sin he ADORES us and is here to help us fight temptation to sin and forgive us when we do. I pray that I will continue to be reminded of this. In fact, I hope the truth of this will seap into my very being (yeah that sounded a little weird, but for real!lol) Also, as a believer, as a stranger in this world, I am called to love God and love people, to bring Glory to God, to be obedient to the Holy Spirit; it is my prayer that as I continue to grow that God would make this a deeper desire in my heart.
Blessings,
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