We Should Be

I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE buying books! Even when I have thirty books to catch up on, I'll still buy more! I'm addicted, what can I say. (This is one of the only "similarities" that Nathan and I share-buying books but we disagree on topics.) I blame it on my mother. I inherited her illness. The problem isn't so much the buying but the READING of the books. I can't seem to fit all the reading I need to into my very busy schedule. HA! (Not busy just not managing my time well-at least I know my issues-LoL)


I started off on a tangent. Let me wander back to my topic. I'm currently reading Timothy Keller's book Generous Justice; How God's Grace Makes Us Just. As many of you are aware I'm very passionate about the poor and downtrodden and I believe I have a responsibility to help but I wanted to get God's perspective on the subject; hence Mr. Keller's book. In the few pages I've read today I already have many posts I'd like to write. But today I want to respond to a common thought that Christians have.......


"Christians should not be concerned about poverty and social conditions but about saving souls."


I have to say this, WHAT??? Okay it's out of my system now. This attitude is wrong on so many levels. Some may get this attitude because they believe that the Old Testament isn't valid anymore and has nothing to do with the New Testament. However that is a wrong thought. Yes, the Old Testament was all about evil and justice and the New Testament is about love and forgiveness BUT Jesus still cared about the same people in the NT that God cared about in the OT, who were the widows, orphans, socially ostracized and the stranger or immigrant. Jesus didn't just come to save our souls but to also show the poor and downtrodden that God loves and cares for them, just like He does for everyone else. They were no less special or important. Jesus' ministry was very different from OT times but he showed that the God of the OT was the same God of the NT. 


Of course as Christians we want to save souls from going to hell. We want everyone to know the gospel or good news that Jesus died on a cross for our sins so we can have eternal life as long as we believe in Jesus Christ as our Savior. (John 3:16) So how do we go about this? How do we save souls? Actions speak a lot louder than words. It is so easy to talk the talk than to walk the walk. All day long we can preach the good news but some won't get it by hearing alone. They need to "see" the good news.........but how do you "see" the good news? 


Well for one you can be concerned about poverty and social conditions. I am an avid supporter of World Vision. Yes, they are a Christian organization but when they are overseas helping in Africa, Asia or Latin America or wherever a natural disaster is, they operate by the rules, regulations and religious beliefs of that country. They will share the gospel if allowed but their main goal is to help the people in need. 
Who we are-World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

Who we serve-We serve close to 100 million people in nearly 100 countries around the world. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender.

Why we serve-Motivated by our faith in Jesus Christ, we serve alongside the poor and oppressed as a demonstration of God’s unconditional love for all people.

Reflecting Christ in Each Community-Wherever we work, our prayer is that our efforts will be used by God to heal and strengthen people’s relationships with Him and with one another. We do this by demonstrating God’s unconditional love for all people through our service to the poor — which includes providing for daily needs, working to build peace and promote justice, and partnering with churches and individuals to encourage spiritual transformation. So isn't World Vision doing exactly what some think we shouldn't be concerned about? By World Vision caring for those who have so much less than we do in the U.S., they are showing God's love for everyone. I much rather see a Christian ACTING like a Christian than talking like a Christian and that is what World Vision is doing. They will help anyone, whether that person or country believes in God. They are concerned for the people's well-being. I want everyone to be a believer but if you aren't that doesn't mean I won't help you or care about you. In fact by me loving and caring for you regardless of your beliefs in turn could turn you into a believer. As I write this, I don't feel like I got my view out like I wanted to. When I read that sentence today I wanted to shake the person saying it. To me showing concern for poverty and social conditions IS saving souls. It's a way of showing God's love for everyone. The two are one in the same, not opposing ideas. It isn't one or the other. As humans we are all sinners and as Christians we have a lot to learn and it won't happen overnight but when Christians act like a nonChristian it hurts us as a whole. If I say I am a Christian and I believe what the bible says but yet I don't follow the bible, what will people think? Would they want to be a Christian if they see me at church on Sunday and then on Monday I am cussing and on Tuesday I'm cheating on my husband?  Our attitude and actions speak for who God is and what he represents, so it is vital that we show the RIGHT God.

Two Days Off! YaY

I've recently moved up to a manager position at the restaurant I work at and I work about the same amount of hours and get the same amount of sleep but for some reason I am worn out. I can't seem to adjust. It must be the later hours......? 


I usually don't care if I get two days off in a row but I am so glad to have it this week. I've wanted to clean and organize and read and enjoy some hobbies and just relax. And today I got some of that accomplished. My mom was so kind to come over and help me get my office organized, bedroom cleaned and kitchen straightened. There is nothing better than a house that is clean and organized. Clutter drives me nuts and I always feel it looming over me so to have it all organized for at least a day or two is AWESOME. 


After the house was clean, my nephew Cameron came over for a while and played Batman on the Xbox, not that he wanted to see Nathan or me but it was still fun to have him around. Nathan and I usually work opposite shifts but tonight we got to spend time watching anime and a movie we both agreed on. What could be more amazing=)


This isn't the most exciting blog for some to read, I'm sure but it was just a perfect day off and I still have another one tomorrow! It's the little things in life that are so wonderful. I hate feeling like I am behind and can't seem to catch up or enjoy my hobbies. It's so nice to get a "mental" break. So tonight I am staying up late, watching a movie and sleeping in tomorrow and then doing whatever I want. Good Night All

Stronger

Hey, heard you were up all night
Thinking about how your world ain't right
And you wonder if things will ever get better
And you're asking why is it always raining on you
When all you want is just a little good news
Instead of standing there stuck out in the weather

Oh, don't hang your head
It's gonna end
God's right there
Even if it's hard to see Him
I promise you that He still cares

When the waves are taking you under
Hold on just a little bit longer
He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger
The pain ain't gonna last forever
And things can only get better
Believe me
This is gonna make you stronger
Gonna make you stronger, stronger, stronger
Believe me, this is gonna make you ...

Try and do the best you can
Hold on and let Him hold your hand
And go on and fall into the arms of Jesus
Oh, lift your head it's gonna end
God's right there
Even when you just can't feel Him
I promise you that He still cares

'Cause if He started this work in your life
He will be faithful to complete it
If only you believe it
He knows how much it hurts
And I'm sure that He's gonna help you get through this

When the waves are taking you under
Hold on just a little bit longer
He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger
The pain ain't gonna last forever
In time it's gonna get better
Believe me
This is gonna make you stronger

-Mandisa

Lessons and Maturity

Most of us want things that we don't need or aren't ready for. I am so for adoption and especially adoption in Africa where there are 140 million orphans. I am dying to adopt one BUT this is not the time in my life for children. I'm simply NOT ready and I know this. Nathan and I are still trying to figure life out and settle in, in Lima. Nathan is dying to buy a house and I understand this BUT again I'm not quite ready.....couple more months. Then the other day Nathan says he wants a car (we only have one, mine got hit last year-hit and run). I said okay but we aren't taking on a car payment with a mortgage payment. He wasn't thrilled I said this but we are finally on track financially and I don't want to take on more than we can handle. 


In my early twenties I spent money like I had it coming out of my ears. When I wanted something I bought it. Two tvs, okay. A new car with a higher payment, okay. I did not make wise decisions but luckily I learned for them. I see the importance of one credit card or no credit card. I see the importance of having your car paid off. I see the importance of waiting until you have the money to buy what you want. When you know that you don't "need" something and just want something or you know you need to wait, I think that is a sign of maturity. Or when you don't rush into something you're not ready for like a house payment or a car payment or having a child. For some newlyweds I think they may get caught up in the idea of marriage and family and not realize all that goes into it. I'm just thankful that I've learned from my mistakes and I know myself well enough to know when I'm not ready to do something even though I may want it badly or my spouse may. 

L-O-V-E

L-O-V-E such a small word but so powerful! How so? Well lets see....


Love can make you act in a way you never would before. Love can make you do things you never would before. Love can make you sacrifice for someone in a way you never would have before. Love is powerful. 


I recently saw the new movie Beastly, a modern take on Beauty and the Beast. The main star in the movie was always told by his father that looks matter and if your looks aren't top notch then you have nothing and no one will like you. This attitude turned Kyle into a beast on the inside. He was cruel and ruthless. As penalty for this attitude he was turned just as ugly on the outside as he is on the inside. His father hid him in a house and hired a blind tutor and then never came to visit him. The only way for him to be turned back into himself was to fall in love and have another person say to him "I love you." I'm sure we all know how it turns out since it's a movie but when he finally started thinking about someone else and caring for her, he changed. Kyle's love for her and her love for him, changed him for the better. 


Have you ever loved someone that is hard to love? Or didn't want to be loved? Its not easy. But did your love break down barriers? Did it change someone for the better? If you haven't received love, it would be very hard to show it. But if you have received love isn't it hard not to show it? All the love I receive from family, friends and definitely God make me a better person. Because of their love, I can give it away to others. For me personally, when I receive love I want to return the favor, whether it's right back to that person or passing in on to others. Another person's love validates you. It makes you feel like you are something and someone. 


There's all kinds of love. A mother's love for her child. A husband's love for his wife. A sister's love for her brother. An uncle's love for his nephew. And God's love for his people.


God is the ultimate LOVE. John 3:16 "For God so LOVED the world, that he GAVE his only son...." God created the world and us. He created us in his image and likeness (Genesis 1:27). When we couldn't do anything to save ourselves from sin, God gave us his son to be crucified and to take the penalty for our sins. Jesus didn't deserve what happened to him. He was perfect and blameless but because God loves us and wants a relationship with us and to have eternal life with him, he gave us Jesus. Can you imagine that kind of love? Would you sacrifice YOUR child to save many or even someone? Can you imagine the pain God was in? God loves us more than anyone will or ever could; so how do you think he felt about his only son being crucified on a cross?


L-O-V-E is powerful and changes people for the better. How can your love change someone? How can you help someone who needs your love today?

No Pity

CBN.com Jennifer E Jones

Spring is here… although someone forgot to tell the weathermen. I don’t know about you, but where I live, I still need to use my fireplace at night.

Nevertheless, according to the calendar, it's spring. Time to open up the house and let the sunshine in. Grab a few dozen trash bags, go through all the closets and the attic, and throw away everything that has cluttered up the house.

I decided this spring I needed to clear the junk out of my head first. Only a few months into the New Year, and I already had too much on my mind.

I still had a lot of questions built up from last year. God, why did this happen? Why did I pray for this, and it still fell apart? Why, God, why? The questions were piling up, and no answers were in sight to help with the mess.

I can be the ultimate pity party planner. Just give me one problem, and I’ll sulk on it all day. I could feel myself going there one morning and suddenly realized I needed to get with it. Thankfully, God sent me a gentle reminder that He was more than willing to help.

The same day I got on the elevator with a heavy-set woman who had a medical boot on her leg. Thinking that she's probably been asked a thousand times what happened, I instead asked, "Is it easy to walk in that thing?"

I fully expected her to start complaining about how painful and difficult it was with this contraption strapped to her leg. However, she looked up at me and said matter-of-factly, "No, it's quite easy. I've had this on for about a year." Then, she explained to me how she's had surgery on that foot many times, and it didn't really bother her.

I know it sounds superficial but the first thought I had as I walked away was, A whole year not being able to walk on your right foot. No fun shoes. Wobbling all the time… I truly felt sorry for her. Yet, while it made me sad, she seemed perfectly fine with it.

Walking down the long hallway to my office, the situation started unraveling in my head. Here I was with the imaginary world on my shoulders, yet I was walking on both feet with breath in my lungs towards a job that I enjoy.

I started to pray, “God, I gotta get rid of this annoying habit of feeling sorry for myself when the most miniscule thing goes wrong in my day. I mean, I have so much to be thankful for, I should be skipping to work every day. But how do I do this? Where do I begin?”

I must admit that I am the queen of unfinished projects. I’m a great starter. Following through is a different story. Cleaning out the pesky demons of jealousy, ungratefulness, and general pessimism would not be easy. I wondered, How do I start cherishing my life?

I was being rhetorical, but as I turned the key to my office door, I heard that still small voice say, "You can start with every moment."

I had to pause and laugh at myself. Of course! The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, as does any big spring-cleaning job. If I could take every moment and enjoy it to its fullest, letting tomorrow take care of itself, in no time I would look back on a life of laughter and love.

So I sat at my desk, turned on some cool jazz, and let a smile creep across my face as I began the work I so enjoy. The day looked better already.

I can’t say that I completely understand how or why my life got so cluttered, but at least I know how to clean it up. And it may never be finished but as God continues to perfect the work He started, I can at least enjoy the process.

Sweet Hripsime

What a wonderful day today has been and really for one reason (not that there isn't more)......I got the info on the new child Nathan and I will be sponsoring through World Vision=) Her name is Hripsime (I haven't a clue how to say it!) and she lives in Armenia. Her birthday is coming up in May; she'll be 6. I can't wait to send her a birthday gift. I've been partial to boys for the last four years since I only have a nephew but I'm pretty excited to send girlie gifts!


The first time I sponsored a child it was in 2007 and I was single. But this time Nathan and I are doing it together. I still sponsor a boy named Bless from Malawi though. I have such a heart for the orphans in Africa and when we are ready for children we will adopt. Until then (and after) I will continue to love on these children through World Vision. At least I can contribute and make a difference this way=)


For anyone not familiar with child sponsorship, I pay $35/month and this money goes to providing basic life necessities (that we take for granted here in the U.S.) like nutritious food, clean water, health care, education, and spiritual nurture. This little gift each month makes a HUGE impact in a child's life, their family's life and their community. 


So now it is time for me to get off here and get to writing my new sweet, precious, Hripsime. Night

There is....

There is a grace that is sufficient;
a mercy that endures;
an atoning blood that cleanses;
a hope that doesn't disappoint; 
a love that never fails;
a purpose that works all things together for the good;
a peace that passes understanding;
a joy unspeakable;
a kingdom unshakable;
a foundation indestructible;
a High Priest who prays;
a Savior who lives;
a Spirit who comforts;
a Father who cares.

Therefore, we who have fled to Him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. Hebrews 6:18-19 NLT

-Roy Lessin

Core Values

~From Bob Gass Ministries Daily Devotional
We talk about our "core values." In an ever-changing world they're principles that should govern your life. They explain why you do the things you do, and what you stand for. They're not just business strategies, cultural norms or responses to market changes; they're non-negotiables that dictate how you live your life. John Blumberg says "I've yet to meet anyone who would say they didn't want to operate from a solid set of values. However, it's more challenging than it appears. In leadership workshops all over the world I've seen the stunning realization people face when they're given a blank sheet and challenged to write down their core values. My hope is you'll be challenged to investigate, indicate, and integrate your core values into the fabric of your life." The Bible says: "Be...doers of the world, and not hearers only." What you truly believe determines how you act and manifests itself in your daily routine. John Mason says that means: "Making yourself valuable to somebody today...tackling a problem bigger than yourself...getting to know God by reading His Word...helping someone who can't repay you...doing three things that take you out of your comfort zone...giving thanks for your daily bread...leaving others a little better than you found them...not being afraid to ask for help...giving the best time of your day to God...doing today what you want to put off till tomorrow...remembering that the time and place to be happy is here and now...taking small steps to conquer a bad habit...and evaluating your actions not by the harvest they produce, but by the seeds you're sowing.

Longer......

Last night at work I was digging in one of my purse pockets for tums. I had to pull everything out of that one tiny pocket and then still search for those tums BUT I finally found them. Then later I was looking for my favorite coffee mug and once again I had to dig all the way to the back to find that one coffee mug that I wanted. (and both times I almost gave up)

Both of those incidents made me think.....sometimes we just don't "dig" long enough or deep enough. We don't "look" long enough. Or "stick" with something long enough. We give up before the time has come for our breakthrough or triumph. So today I'm saying "Stick with it. Dig deeper. And look harder." Whatever it is you are needing God knows. But He's waiting to see if you trust him enough to wait and believe in Him. Dig deep in yourself and you'll amaze yourself. How strong you are. How courageous you are. How beautiful you are.

Teens For Christ

Yesterday at church Teens for Christ came and sang and did "skits" you could say. Honestly I didn't think I would get much from it and I really don't know why I thought this.......One of the only reasons I went yesterday was because I had to talk about World Vision and donating to Japan for relief and supplies. How wrong was I! I got so much from them yesterday and I even had to leave early due to another manager at work being sick. 


Here are some things that I either learned or made me think:

• You can choose to sin but you can't choose the consequences!
• Christians want the Christian life to be like vacationing on a cruise ship but in reality it's more like we are on a battleship. 
• What will be said about OUR generation? What impact are we making in this world? How will it direct the future? What will history books say? Are we creating the world we want for our children? Grandchildren?
• Are you a born again Christian living life the way you want, doing what you want? Are you engaging in God's calling for you? Do you teeter-totter with thoughts like "Do I live for God's call or my own decisions? Do I surrender? Do I follow God or myself?" 
• What if all your words, actions, and thoughts were publicized for everyone to see and know? Would you be embarrassed? Does that idea change the way you act now?
• If we aren't tested how can we build our character, strength, or faith? How can we prove ourselves if we are never tested? The people in Japan are being tested now but so are we here in the U.S. How so? Well are you helping your neighbor in need or are you ignoring them? This is just as much of a test for us as it is for the people in Japan. 

The TFC played a song and did a skit to it. There was a boy in a black robe with a long chain doubled up around his neck, hanging down (the devil). Then another boy (we'll say his name is Scott) was playing himself and a group of like 6 teens acting as demons surrounded Scott and were hissing and scaring him. It represented how we as humans can be attacked by the devil and feel stress, scared, or be addicted to drugs, alcohol or feel hopelessness, fear, like there is no future no help anywhere. They put the chains on Scott and were pulling him all over the stage. It was very moving and brought tears to my eyes. I can't explain it nearly as well as it was acted. But for anyone who has felt like there is no future, no hope, and you have been surrounded with only bad things, this skit represented that until Jesus came. At the end of the skit Jesus is walking toward Scott and "frees" him from the chains and the demons and shows him the life he can live with Christ. A joyful and happy life. It won't be easy but "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Not Want

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. Psalm 23:1

To the lost sheep, He is the seeking Shepherd;
To the needy sheep, He is the providing Shepherd;
To the hurting sheep, He is the comforting Shepherd;
To the bruised sheep, He is the healing Shepherd;
To the anxious sheep, He is the peaceful Shepherd;
To the wandering sheep, He is the guiding Shepherd;
To the fearful sheep, He is the protecting Shepherd;
To all His sheep, He is the Good Shepherd.

-Roy Lessin

~Today every inner need you have can be perfectly met, not because you have the supply, but because God does.
No material possession can bring you true joy;
no human relationship can fill your heart with divine love;
no circumstance can provide you with God's peace.
The kingdom He has placed within us is the kingdom of everything that is right and good and necessary.

But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

-Roy Lessin, DaySpring co-founder and writer

Gift of Mercy

Do any of you know what kind of spiritual gift you have? We studied this in Bible Study a couple months ago and I learned I have the gift of mercy. Here is what it says about this gift. (Do you have it as well?)

The Motivational Gift of compassion, or Mercy, is the ability to show great love, and
deep feeling, toward the needs of others, it is the “outward manifestation of empathy.”
The guidelines for this gift of compassion, or mercy, spoken of in Romans 12:15, are:
   1. To weep with, and
    2. To rejoice with

THE CHARACTERISTIC OF ONE WITH THE GIFT OF COMPASSION, OR MERCY

1. HE HAS A TREMENDOUS CAPACITY OF SHOW LOVE
Of all the Motivational Gifts, the gift of Compassion, or Mercy is the one that
gives one the greatest capacity, and ability, to show love to others. Reflecting the
nature of his heavenly Father, the person motivated by “the Gift of Compassion”
seems to be an unending source of “agape” love, and, the more opportunity he has to
give this love, the more joyful, and fulfilled, he is.
2. HE IS TYPICALLY CHEERFUL AND JOYFUL
The person with the Motivational Gift of Compassion / Mercy is a positive
person. The Amplified Bible tells us that when one shows mercy and compassion he is
to do so “with, genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness” (Romans 12:8), and
because the compassionate person loves showing love he, in fact, can do it with
“genuine cheerfulness” and “joyful eagerness.” Motivational Gift - Compassion 2
3. HE IS MOTIVATED TO HELP PEOPLE HAVE RIGHT RELATIONSHIPS 
    WITH ONE ANOTHER
Because the compassionate / merciful person grieves over broken relationships,
he is a natural builder of bridges, a mender of breaches, a “peacemaker.” He works to
bring about Jesus’ prayer in John 17, desiring to see the Body of Christ united, and
functioning, in love.
4. HE DOES OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE PREFERENCE, OR PLACE, TO 
    OTHERS
The person with this Gift of Compassion / Mercy is the one who will give up
his own interests to help others, let others step in live in front of him, give others the
best seat, or wait patiently for others.
5. HE IS CAREFUL WITH HIS WORDS AND ACTIONS IN ORDER TO AVOID 
    HURTING OTHERS
Because the last thing a compassionate, merciful, person wants is to be the
cause of hurt to another person he will be extremely careful in his actions, and speech,
in order to keep from hurting others.
6. HE IS DEEPLY LOYAL TO FRIENDS
A person with the gift of compassion / mercy demonstrates loyalty to a friend
to the extent that he will even react harshly toward those who attack his friends. When
the Apostle John, with the gift of compassion/mercy, watched the Samaritans reject
Jesus, whom he love he wanted to call down fire from heaven to consume them (See
Luke 9:54).
7. HE IS TRUSTWORTHY, THEREFORE, TRUSTING
Because the compassionate, merciful, person is trustworthy, he expects others to
be also, that is why he assumes that everyone is honest and reliable until absolutely
proven otherwise. He can be so trusting, in fact, that he may tend to be gullible.
8. HE AVOIDS CONFLICTS AND CONFRONTATIONS
The person with the gift of compassion/mercy longs, and will do anything, for
peace and harmony, that is why he finds it difficult to cope with conflict.
9. HE ALWAYS LOOKS FOR THE GOOD IN PEOPLE
Because the compassionate, merciful, person is non-critical not only does his
focus remain on the good, both real and potential, in others, but he also seems to have
built-in blinders that keep him from seeing the bad in others.
10. HE HAS A NEED FOR DEEP FRIENDSHIPS
The very nature of a person with the Motivational Gift of Compassion/Mercy
requires close friendships, friendships where there are mutual commitments and
constant reaffirmations. John enjoyed such a friendship with Jesus. He was not only
closer to Christ than more of the other disciples, but he referred to himself as “the
disciple whom Jesus loved” (See John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7 and 20).
-info from http://www.netbiblestudy.com/00_cartimages/Compassion.pdf

Words

This is from Bob Gass Ministries....Daily Devotional...March April May


-Most of us have no idea how much other people's emotions, self-esteem and hopes are influenced by what WE say. Paul said, "Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus...have been such a wonderful encouragement to me." If you've never heard of them, it's because most encouragers hate being the center of attention. They're happy to work in a support role. But without them very little would get done. The opposite of giving encouragement is spreading discouragement, and Paul says, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up...that it may benefit those who listen" (Eph 4:29 NIV). Jesus said, "[You'll] give account..by your words you will be justified, and...condemned" (MT 12:36-37 NKJV). What you say can never be taken back, and it'll be used as evidence for or against you one day. Dr. Thomas Blackaby points out: "Words...can leave scars for a lifetime, and many people will never forget some of the things you've said to them, both good things, such as words of encouragement, and bad things, such as criticism and rebuke...Make the best possible use of words so they bring blessings on others." So are you words encouraging? Can it be said that there's "nothing crooked or perverse...in them" (Pr 8:8 NKJV)? Ask God to "Set a guard...over [your] mouth" (Ps 141:3 NKJV) so whatever you say glorifies Him and lifts others up.

St. Patricks

From the KLOVE website 


The Story of St. Patrick

While many traditions and meanings have been associated with St. Patrick’s Day, the story of St. Patrick is the one of a man with an earnest desire to shine God’s light in the darkness.

One of the church’s early missionaries, God used St. Patrick to help spread Jesus’ message throughout Ireland in the fifth century. Born British, (which at that time was part of the Roman empire), St. Patrick was captured and imprisoned by the Irish as a teenager. During his harsh imprisonment, St. Patrick learned the Celtic language and culture of the Irish, which would come in handy later in life.

St. Patrick escaped prison after six years and returned back to his native England. He used his newly found freedom to draw closer to God, and underwent ministry training. After many years of traveling Europe, St. Patrick felt God pulling him back to Ireland to spread His message.

Upon returning, his love of God spurred him to share God’s love with everyone he came in contact with. Amidst death threats from magicians, teachers and kings, his confidence in God gave him the strength to spread the Gospel to the same people that had imprisoned him years earlier. St. Patrick’s passion converted the hearts of kings and servants alike, and his legacy is still remembered today. Hence, on March 17th, the day of his death, people around the world celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

So take some time today to remember the people in your life who have introduced you to God. Thank them for having the same courage exemplified by St. Patrick 1,500 years ago.

Don't need to hear me talk today

‎"It has been said that what you see determines the direction of your life. If this is the case, then your perception of yourself can either propel you forward or keep you stuck in the past. The perspective you hold directly affects the possibility of change..."









Check out http://pitterpatterart.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/4-months-waiting-giveaway/!
Laura Kelley is a local Nashville artist who does amazing things! She is waiting to adopt her second son from Africa and each month she is waiting she does a giveaway of one of her pieces. So go check out her amazing talent=)

Desires of my Heart

‎"As far as I am concerned, the greatest suffering is to feel alone, unwanted, unloved. The greatest suffering is also having no one, forgetting what an intimate, truly human relationship is, not knowing what it means to be loved, and not having a family or 
friends" 
 (This speaks to me so much. It breaks my heart to think of someone feeling this way. What a horrible feeling. That feeling is one reason I help those less fortunate and why I care so much)


‎"Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Amen!

"It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving."

"If you can't feed a hundred people, feed just one."

"At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by "I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me. I was homeless, and you took me in." 
  -Mother Teresa-


In 2007 when I was home from the Mississippi River, I decided to sponsor a child through World Vision. Who knew that day my life would change for the better! Those three weeks home were life changing for me. "how?" you ask? Well my grandpa died (God granted me such wonderful peace during that difficult time) and a friends mom died and I decided I wanted to know more about God (I'd always believed and prayed but I didn't have a relationship with him). I wanted to read the bible and read any books I could get a hold of. While I was home I also asked God to help me find the perfect husband. I was tired of wasting my time with the wrong ones but was in no hurry to marry. When I came back to the boat on the Mississippi I found my future husband, Nathan. No more losers. 


When I sponsored my first child, Issac in 2007 that was the beginning of my passion for Africa. Last night when I was in bed I remembered when I decided to sponsor a child and when I remembered it was at the same time I truly began a relationship with God, it amazed me. I'm not sure if I'm being very clear......? When I was home for those three weeks I was just beginning my walk with God but God had already planned for me to have a heart for Africa and its people. I didn't know it at the time but my love, compassion and concern for that country would grow fiercely over the next 3 1/2 years.


Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be-Matthew 6:21 This verse came to mind yesterday. I've always been an excellent spender of money but since I've become closer to Jesus, my desires are different. Yesterday I was looking for shirts to support Japan and I donated to World Vision to help Japan during this difficult time. The other day I put a bid in on a silent auction for a family adopting from Africa. I'm still looking for shirts that support adopting orphans all over the world or shirts supporting Africa and clean water. I don't want to sit by and do nothing. But the reason I feel this way is because of GOD! He gave me this heart. He gave me this burden. It is on my heart and I HAVE to help. 


I've always said in my blog that I was blessed and fortunate. I have nothing to complain about. So when I see other's suffering and going through difficulties like Japan, I can't help but have my heart broken. Imagining what they are facing. Some have gone without food, water or shelter for 4 days! Wow! I've never been in that situation. There was an article and a picture of a woman and the caption said she was trying to find her husband. Can you imagine the fear, hopelessness, concern she was feeling? It brought me to tears. I can put myself in her shoes and think "What if that was me?" And it's not just Japan. I would help any country in anyway I could. We are ALL God's children. We are ALL special to him. While we are on earth we are His hands and feet. 


I don't expect everyone to have the same passion as me. If so then others would be neglected. God has given us all a heart for something so we can make this world better. Most of my money does go to my passion but I would help anyone who asks. It doesn't matter to me. So when I ask for support/donations for my passion, know that God gave me this heart. I'm doing his will for my life. I don't believe we are here to think "me" or "I." 

HELP! for our neighbors

  -Richard Stearns, President of World Vision U.S.-

If the Japan earthquake and tsunami had happened 100 years ago, most of us would not even be aware that it had happened. Perhaps a telegram would have been sent to the U.S. and perhaps a small story might have appeared in major newspapers, but other than that, it would have had little effect on our consciousness.

So why is today any different? In a word, awareness. The connectedness of our world today brings the trauma and pain of Japan into our living rooms with gut wrenching emotional force. The result is that we cannot turn away. As human beings we are, by nature, empathetic to the suffering of others. But that empathy is not triggered as acutely by sterile “page ten” newspaper articles, as it is by the vivid and shocking images of human suffering bombarding our TVs, computers and iPads, causing even our children to ask what we can do to help. I think that most of us –as we have watched the events unfold in Japan– have thought to ourselves: “What if this had happened to us?”

Last night on our local news in Seattle, a rescue worker was interviewed as he prepared to leave for Japan. He had also deployed last year to Haiti. The reporter asked why he felt compelled to go, and he answered with words that many of us feel: “I just have to respond. The world is a smaller place today. It’s about ‘loving our neighbors as ourselves,’ and it doesn’t matter if they are right here or halfway around the world.” Indeed, it is about “loving our neighbors as ourselves”–the very thing Jesus called “the second greatest commandment.”

Here on the northwest coast of the U.S., we live on the same volcanic, “ring of fire” as Japan, and are vulnerable in the same way to earthquakes. Driving to work this morning over our vital bridges and highways, I thought about what might happen if such an earthquake hit Seattle. I shuddered at the possibility. This really could happen to us, I thought. And if it does, I pray that the rest of the world will also see us as their neighbor. Because we will surely need some friends.

Join me in praying for our neighbors in Japan, that they would find peace and comfort in the days ahead.

http://blog.worldvision.org/disaster-relief/rich-stearns-on-the-japan-quake-and-tsunami/?lpos=ctr_txt_readmore_RichStearnsontheJapanquakeandtsunami

What can YOU do to help? Every little bit helps and makes a difference. We can't do it by ourselves but TOGETHER we can make an impact! 

New Project! Need Help!

Okay I am ready to start my new project and I can't wait!!! On March 5th and 8th (so if you haven't watched them yet, PLEASE do) I posted videos of World Vision and Africa and the caregivers who take care of those infected with AIDS. The videos showed how the kits help those affected. Without these kits the people who are infected would be even more miserable. These caregivers not only help them by keeping them clean and treated but also by their love and compassion. By the touch of another human being. By helping with the children. Their role is vital in the fight against AIDS. 


But the unfortunate thing is the most basic things these caregivers need, they can't obtain! I'm talking about soap, petroleum jelly, gloves, cotton balls, pens, paper, flashlight and batteries, and towels. We take all these things for granted in the U.S. 


By now I'm sure you're asking yourself "How can I help?" Excellent question! World Vision will help us obtain all the supplies and kits for about $28/kit. Then all we have to do with a team of helpers is put these kits together with an encouraging note and off they go to Africa, Asia or Latin America. It's that easy and it makes a huge difference in this world=) Now all I need to start is your donations or time or craftiness or all the above!


Feel free to email me at kellinhobbs@yahoo.com if you're interested in helping in some way or another or have questions. I am going to do some kind of fundraising so any ideas are helpful! To check the info out on World Vision go to: http://www.worldvision.org/content.nsf/getinvolved/caregiver-kits-church-volunteer-activity?Open&lpos=btn-churchKits

The Need

• Who's in need? 33 million people living with HIV and AIDS
• Where are they? Africa, Asia, and Latin America
• Who's helping them? World Vision-trained volunteer caregivers
• What can you do? Build Caregiver Kits filled with basic supplies!

one kit + 4 refill packs = one caregiver equipped for an entire year

The opportunity

Assembling Caregiver Kits is an effective, hands-on way to:

• Show Christ's unconditional love to those suffering from AIDS
• Equip caregivers with a year's worth of the practical materials they need
• Encourage caregivers to continue caring selflessly for their neighbors
• Draw your church closer together by serving those in need

Time & Distance Don't Matter

I don't know how I ended up with a best friend and a husband as different from me as possible. But somehow it works for us. Emily would go to bat for me in a second. Anything I need she'll be there. She is one of my best supporters and encouragers. I love her dearly. 

Now comes the funny part. In the last year year and a half or so we've talked less and seen each other less then ever before BUT we're still best buds. It's funny how you can not talk to someone for a couple weeks and then talk with each other like it was just yesterday. We live two hours apart so it's not always easy to get together so obviously our main communication is the phone. I hate talking on the phone. The older I get the less I like it. I avoid it at all costs. The awesome thing about our friendship though is that we don't need to talk to each other everyday or every week to keep our friendship on good terms. We don't get mad at the other when one of us doesn't call. When I was single I had a lot more to talk about but I'm married now and back in my hometown and there just isn't as much to talk about. I go to work, church and spend time with my husband, who I get along great with. There's no drama in my life hence no exciting phone calls to make anymore...LoL...However if I did need to talk she'd be right there to listen. 

I finally got to spend some quality time with Em tonight and it was awesome! It was like it is always between us. Easy and fun. My sister wrote about the need for friends the other day and this is a similar post but I guess my point is.....to not let time and distance get in the way of a friendship. You can still be best buds even when you don't talk or see each other everyday or every week. Our lives are busy (and kinda boring) and it can be hard but knowing that you have a friend waiting anytime you need her (or him) no matter if you haven't talked in awhile is pretty awesome. I am one of those people who can forget that time even escaped us. I can keep our friendship just the way it was. Can you?

How He Loves

He is jealous for me 
Loves like a hurricane 
I am a tree
Bending beneath the weight of His wind and mercy

When all of a sudden
I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory
And I realize just how beautiful You are
And how great Your affections are for me

And oh, how He loves us so
Oh how He loves us
How He loves us all
Yeah, He loves us
Oh how He loves us
Oh how He loves us
Oh how He loves

And we are His portion and 
He is our prize 
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes 
If His grace is an ocean, we're all sinking 
And Heaven meets Earth like an unforeseen kiss 
And my heart turns violently inside of my chest

I don't have time to maintain these regrets When I think about, the 
way..
-David Crowder

Friends

Guest Blogger- Kristen Hobbs

Everyone needs time out from their busy lives to just relax and have fun with their friends. Tonight I had one of those nights and needed it!! With finals coming up this next week and all the stress of school and .....life. We went bowling and to dinner and it was great. Lots of laughs.. You realize that you are not the only one dealing with stressful things and can talk about it, laugh about it, cry about it (if necessary). I am blessed with the people in my life. Be thankful for those in yours :)

Building the Relationship

Do you know everything about someone as soon as you meet them? Do you know their favorite food? Favorite tv show? Or what bugs/annoys them? We don't, do we. How do we learn these things? By spending time with the person. Talking to her and building a relationship. It doesn't happen right away, it takes time. The same applies to God.

Often I hear people saying they don't need to go to church. They pray everyday and thank God for their blessings but they just don't have time for church or see the need for it. Everyone's opinion is different but I totally disagree with this idea. We NEED to go to church and there's many reasons why. One reason is to know God's word. How can we know God if we don't spend time with him? How can we know what kind of God he is and what he represents if we don't spend time with him and listen to his word, which is the Bible. That is God's "manual" for us.

Building a relationship with God is no different than building a relationship with your spouse, best friend or sister. It takes effort, time, and commitment but it is so worth it. When those tough times come you'll be prepared because you know God and how he'll help you get through it. Don't assume you know God by what you've heard and other people tell you. Go to God's word yourself! You probably won't understand everything you read in the bible and that's where church can help again. The pastor or elder can help you understand or put it in a new light. Church isn't a building, it's a group of people coming together to worship and praise our Heavenly Father.

Take the first step, God is waiting for you.

Better Place

One Sunday a couple weeks ago in bible study some of the women said they wish Jesus would hurry up and come back. They were tired of all the pain and sorrow and stress and disease here and just want to be with our Heavenly Father where all we would know is joy and happiness. I'm not quite to that point yet. It's hard for me to put into words why but I'm not ready. (One reason though I know for sure is because there are still loved ones that need to be saved)

However I did get a little closer to wanting Jesus to come back the other day. When I was watching videos on the conditions in Africa and the heartache and struggle for the children who lose their parents or the children who die from lack of clean water or no food; the only thing that made me feel better was knowing that when they die they would be with God in Heaven. They wouldn't suffer anymore and they would know joy, happiness, love, compassion and everything else good about God. That's the promise we have in Jesus Christ. That's the joy we have in the cross. Our world is horrible but the hope we have is knowing that there is a much better place for us when we die. This earth is not the end. It's only the beginning. 

Out of the Shadows

I was overcome with emotion and tears watching this video! (I couldn't stop crying) From seeing the conditions of the schools and health clinics to the love of the caregivers for those affected by AIDS. 

“Let my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of God.” —Bob Pierce, World Vision founder My heart was totally broken watching this video. I could understand and feel God's pain and heartache watching his people suffer and knowing that more needs to be done to help. I'm starting a new project soon, just figuring out the details but I did tell my husband about it. One of his responses was "Why don't I help those here in America. There's need here too." And he's totally right but God gave me a heart for Africa. I would LOVE to help EVERYONE but I'm only one person and this one person's heart is for those who are suffering from starvation, lack of clean water, disease, and AIDS. We are all part of a huge puzzle, representing one piece of it. Our one piece is unique with only our talents, gifts, personalities, desires, passions and so on. We all need to come together and put our "piece" to use toward whatever God has given us a heart for. We aren't the same. We won't all share the same passions but obviously that's good since there is need everywhere for everything. The important thing is to DO something! Help, donate, volunteer, give, share, love, care, etc.

Hello

Hello You...
the one welcoming a new week and wondering what it holds.
I don't know.
But I'm certain of this-there's One who holds us.
And He promises nothing is impossible for you.
Not that mountain you're facing.
Not that task you're dreading.
Not that decision you're afraid to make.
He may not tell us the details of what's to come
but He reminds us of what's ours no matter what...
Victory.
A future.
A plan that's as good as He is.
Always.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

By Holley Gerth, DaySpring writer