Sep 30, 2010
Stir things up
This is incredible. She is articulate, challenging, and stirring things up. When others meant to kill her, God chose for her to live. Enjoy. Be inspired. Be challenged. Be encouraged.
Sep 22, 2010
Beloved-WFW
A different sort of window w/verse
Originally uploaded by chelled.
or a young stag. Behold, there he stands behind our wall, gazing through the windows, looking through the lattice. (Song of Solomon 2:8-9)
Can you picture it? Like the lover in Song of Solomon, God is leaping and bounding towards us. With grace and strength, He is coming for us! He stands, adoring us, calling us beautiful, as He is drawing us into His arms. How wonderful it is to be His child!
And, the bride knows the voice of her beloved. The sound of his voice alone draws excitement and expectation. Are you that way with your heavenly Father? Do you know His voice? Do His words, His presence, cause you to bubble over with excitement?
Draw near to Him, worship at His throne. Run to meet your beloved as He is calling out to you today. Run into the arms of your first love, and be adored.
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Sep 21, 2010
Remember me?
There are few moments in my life I would ever choose to go back to. Some people would love to journey back to highschool or relive their college years. Me? No thanks, I am happy where I am. But last night, as I was speaking to a friend whom I have not heard from in over two years, I thought, "if I had to pick a time to return to, it would be the summers during my college days." Every summer upon beginning college, I could be found working as a huddle leader at summer camps for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).
I had been involved in FCA throughout highschool, and although my small college didn't have a huddle on campus (until two baseball players and I began one anyway), I often ventured over to the meetings at the large college in town, and always found myself at camps during the summer. Whether I had a junior high huddle or a highschool huddle never mattered because I simply loved being there. I loved our speakers, the other leaders, and the opportunity to teach, to learn, and to grow. It always amazed me to watch members of my huddle start to "get it" as the week went on. This is the time I learned so much, I grew so much, and built on the foundation of my faith. And I met some of the most amazing individuals I have ever known.
Although I had spoken often during my highschool's huddle meetings, it was when I spoke at these camps I felt so alive. The first time I was asked to share my testimony, my only thought was, "there are around 600 people at this camp, you want me to share, and I am not sure I have anything that will affect these kids." I did not drink, did not have sex, nothing you would here touched on in most testimonies. I liked my parents, even enjoyed my older sister, and did well in school. Perfect? Hardly. However, I looked at my life as one that had been greatly protected and rather wonderful. I respected those in authority enough to know there were reasons I had been chosen as a speaker, reasons I did not need to be made aware of. My only job was to tell those kids who God was, and how He changed me. You know what? I loved every minute of it because I knew when I spoke it was not me but the Holy Spirit in me doing the work. I always had notes, at least in an outline form, with scriptures to quote and to keep me from rambling. I never did use those notes. It was as if I stepped outside myself and watched as the talk unfolded. When the last word was spoken, I stepped back into myself, in awe of what God had done.
As great as those moments of public speaking were, it is the friendships I built at those camps that I miss. In particular, there were two girls who entered my life at that time who forever changed me. We traveled across Texas together, confined to a car. We learned a great deal about one another, about ourselves, about the beauty of friendship in that car, and in the weeks that followed. We laughed often and came up with jokes no one in the world but us would ever understand. But we do. We always have, and we always will. There are times we go without speaking for months, sometimes even years. But when we do reconnect, there are not false pretenses, no pretty facades, only the acceptance of one another, the love for one another, and the desire to see one another flourish. One question can bring tears, or laughter, or both. One question reveals the fact how deeply we care, how well we know one another. We have been enriched by the sweet fragrance of friendship, regardless of life's changes and our locations.
I do not have the ability to return to a time in my past and relive moments that changed me forever. Yet my heart overflows with the knowledge more cherished memories will be given to me when I see these two again. In January, two of us will complete a marathon, one a 5k. To celebrate where we have been, where we are going, and one another, we will sit and enjoy the presence of one another. There will be laughter, there will be tears, there will be more memories to store away, more pictures to add to the scrapbook. It is still a few months away, but I find myself sitting here smiling in hopeful expectation of being back in the presence of these two forever freinds.
I had been involved in FCA throughout highschool, and although my small college didn't have a huddle on campus (until two baseball players and I began one anyway), I often ventured over to the meetings at the large college in town, and always found myself at camps during the summer. Whether I had a junior high huddle or a highschool huddle never mattered because I simply loved being there. I loved our speakers, the other leaders, and the opportunity to teach, to learn, and to grow. It always amazed me to watch members of my huddle start to "get it" as the week went on. This is the time I learned so much, I grew so much, and built on the foundation of my faith. And I met some of the most amazing individuals I have ever known.
Although I had spoken often during my highschool's huddle meetings, it was when I spoke at these camps I felt so alive. The first time I was asked to share my testimony, my only thought was, "there are around 600 people at this camp, you want me to share, and I am not sure I have anything that will affect these kids." I did not drink, did not have sex, nothing you would here touched on in most testimonies. I liked my parents, even enjoyed my older sister, and did well in school. Perfect? Hardly. However, I looked at my life as one that had been greatly protected and rather wonderful. I respected those in authority enough to know there were reasons I had been chosen as a speaker, reasons I did not need to be made aware of. My only job was to tell those kids who God was, and how He changed me. You know what? I loved every minute of it because I knew when I spoke it was not me but the Holy Spirit in me doing the work. I always had notes, at least in an outline form, with scriptures to quote and to keep me from rambling. I never did use those notes. It was as if I stepped outside myself and watched as the talk unfolded. When the last word was spoken, I stepped back into myself, in awe of what God had done.
As great as those moments of public speaking were, it is the friendships I built at those camps that I miss. In particular, there were two girls who entered my life at that time who forever changed me. We traveled across Texas together, confined to a car. We learned a great deal about one another, about ourselves, about the beauty of friendship in that car, and in the weeks that followed. We laughed often and came up with jokes no one in the world but us would ever understand. But we do. We always have, and we always will. There are times we go without speaking for months, sometimes even years. But when we do reconnect, there are not false pretenses, no pretty facades, only the acceptance of one another, the love for one another, and the desire to see one another flourish. One question can bring tears, or laughter, or both. One question reveals the fact how deeply we care, how well we know one another. We have been enriched by the sweet fragrance of friendship, regardless of life's changes and our locations.
I do not have the ability to return to a time in my past and relive moments that changed me forever. Yet my heart overflows with the knowledge more cherished memories will be given to me when I see these two again. In January, two of us will complete a marathon, one a 5k. To celebrate where we have been, where we are going, and one another, we will sit and enjoy the presence of one another. There will be laughter, there will be tears, there will be more memories to store away, more pictures to add to the scrapbook. It is still a few months away, but I find myself sitting here smiling in hopeful expectation of being back in the presence of these two forever freinds.
Sep 18, 2010
Another update on Jaden
The following was written by Jaden's Daddy, David:
To those who keep wanting the updates--and thanks for all the caring and prayers...here is the latest.
First off--can't believe we are 5 months since it started, but 3 months in to the NICU. Jaden is 5lb 12oz. Bro likes his food for sure.
IN FACT--this past week, Tuesday, he got to "nipple" (bottle feed) about 10ml's. On Friday (yesterday), Lisa and I got to feed him. He went from the 48 ml's (almost 2 oz's every 3 hours) he starts with to 27ml's. He had great stats and no brady's!! Then he was done, so the rest went through his tube. At night (8pm), Lisa fed him again, and he took about 12 ml's! That is twice in 1 day!!! So good!!! She fed him about 8 ml's today at 11. He can "nipple" the bottle about once a shift.
His eyes are still not good. His left eye seems to be progessively getting worse. It is a "tricky" situation. Basically, his blood vessels need to go through a 3rd ridge. If they stop just before, they can displace the retina and there is a VERY short window of time to fix it or he will be blind (from what we are understanding). But--if they go through it--then it is a good thing. So glad I am not the eye doctor who makes that call. Seems way to close to call.
SO--they will check every 3-5 days since it is slow progressing. WHICH IS GOOD--because "RUSH disease" would be way quick. They can do a laser surgery within the short window which will have some possible side effects, but still give him vision. We pray God either completely heal the eyes, or make it crystal clear when the surgery needs to happen.
His lungs (which should not be there) are still hanging tough. He remains on the High Flow, and will prob be on it for a while. We are at 38 1/2 weeks, and will most likely be in another 3-5 weeks easy I imagine. BUT--anything can happen. I am so thankful he HAS gotten sick in the NICU a few times. Not because I want him sick, but because we can see how the his immune system may be trying to grow and strengthen. We know he will be in a "bubble" type atmosphere for a while due to his weakened immune system. His lungs and everything will have to be protected from illnesses for a bit.
When he comes home, I can't wait to do a "synopsis" trying to make sense of it all. You know, since this journey began, I have just prayed for grace and mercy. On the back side of things, i have seen where grace and mercy were applied, but my eyes couldn't see it in the moment. Maybe these illnesses for him have been part of it too! Either way--we know God's hand is on Him for some reason. For that--we are so thankful!! God has provided for, and continues to provide for all we need to make it through this moment by moment.
Thanks always for praising and praying along with us throughout this journey. I assure you--we never take it for granted.
And not just for us--but even for our little girl. I know her handling of all of this is largely in part to some of you who have just felt led to cover Jenna. I don't think I could have handled this as strong as she has. I know it is because of God's hand on her due to the love and prayers of so many. We are simply blessed!
To those who keep wanting the updates--and thanks for all the caring and prayers...here is the latest.
First off--can't believe we are 5 months since it started, but 3 months in to the NICU. Jaden is 5lb 12oz. Bro likes his food for sure.
IN FACT--this past week, Tuesday, he got to "nipple" (bottle feed) about 10ml's. On Friday (yesterday), Lisa and I got to feed him. He went from the 48 ml's (almost 2 oz's every 3 hours) he starts with to 27ml's. He had great stats and no brady's!! Then he was done, so the rest went through his tube. At night (8pm), Lisa fed him again, and he took about 12 ml's! That is twice in 1 day!!! So good!!! She fed him about 8 ml's today at 11. He can "nipple" the bottle about once a shift.
His eyes are still not good. His left eye seems to be progessively getting worse. It is a "tricky" situation. Basically, his blood vessels need to go through a 3rd ridge. If they stop just before, they can displace the retina and there is a VERY short window of time to fix it or he will be blind (from what we are understanding). But--if they go through it--then it is a good thing. So glad I am not the eye doctor who makes that call. Seems way to close to call.
SO--they will check every 3-5 days since it is slow progressing. WHICH IS GOOD--because "RUSH disease" would be way quick. They can do a laser surgery within the short window which will have some possible side effects, but still give him vision. We pray God either completely heal the eyes, or make it crystal clear when the surgery needs to happen.
His lungs (which should not be there) are still hanging tough. He remains on the High Flow, and will prob be on it for a while. We are at 38 1/2 weeks, and will most likely be in another 3-5 weeks easy I imagine. BUT--anything can happen. I am so thankful he HAS gotten sick in the NICU a few times. Not because I want him sick, but because we can see how the his immune system may be trying to grow and strengthen. We know he will be in a "bubble" type atmosphere for a while due to his weakened immune system. His lungs and everything will have to be protected from illnesses for a bit.
When he comes home, I can't wait to do a "synopsis" trying to make sense of it all. You know, since this journey began, I have just prayed for grace and mercy. On the back side of things, i have seen where grace and mercy were applied, but my eyes couldn't see it in the moment. Maybe these illnesses for him have been part of it too! Either way--we know God's hand is on Him for some reason. For that--we are so thankful!! God has provided for, and continues to provide for all we need to make it through this moment by moment.
Thanks always for praising and praying along with us throughout this journey. I assure you--we never take it for granted.
And not just for us--but even for our little girl. I know her handling of all of this is largely in part to some of you who have just felt led to cover Jenna. I don't think I could have handled this as strong as she has. I know it is because of God's hand on her due to the love and prayers of so many. We are simply blessed!
Sep 17, 2010
Through the pages of a magazine
Wednesday I sat awaiting my massage and began flipping through a magazine sitting nearby. I had no interest in any of the articles, and proceeded to flip through the pages merely to pass time. One simple fact stood out: the models looked too thin, unhealthy, and ridiculously out of proportion. It was insane. Page after page showed distrorted looking females. Through the pages of this magazine, I saw my need to pray for my daughter, my nieces, and every female in this world.
When did skinny become the cult hit? Why do people think an individual is to be admired merely because she wears a size 0? What has happened to health? As a personal trainer, I can tell you that there are a great deal of skinny people who are unhealthy. They lack muscle tone and strength and have no endurance. They can shop in a petite clothing store, but cannot carry the bags of clothes out of there. It is sad, it is disgusting, and more than anything, it is alarming.
As my mind drifted to my own daughter, who already seems to have inherited her mother's athletic build, I began praying for her mind, for her eyes. I pray she does not judge herself based on what she may see on the pages of a magazine. I pray she looks at those pictures and sees the lack of health residing there rather than her own aspirations. I pray she finds joy in her strength, in her abilities, in her own beauty rather than doubts as she looks upon airbrushed pictures. I pray she embraces her wildly curly hair and her big bright eyes and soft beautiful skin. I pray she knows who she is and walks confidently in that knowledge.
More importantly, I pray her mother is teaching her and modeling for her that true health is about the body, mind and spirit, not a certain clothing size. May the words of my mouth speak life and confidence into the girl God has placed in my care. Through the pages of a magazine, I saw a danger that is destroying the minds and bodies of more women than we may care to think about. That's not how it should be.
Eat well, exercise, and delight in who you are for you are fearfully and wonderfully made.
When did skinny become the cult hit? Why do people think an individual is to be admired merely because she wears a size 0? What has happened to health? As a personal trainer, I can tell you that there are a great deal of skinny people who are unhealthy. They lack muscle tone and strength and have no endurance. They can shop in a petite clothing store, but cannot carry the bags of clothes out of there. It is sad, it is disgusting, and more than anything, it is alarming.
As my mind drifted to my own daughter, who already seems to have inherited her mother's athletic build, I began praying for her mind, for her eyes. I pray she does not judge herself based on what she may see on the pages of a magazine. I pray she looks at those pictures and sees the lack of health residing there rather than her own aspirations. I pray she finds joy in her strength, in her abilities, in her own beauty rather than doubts as she looks upon airbrushed pictures. I pray she embraces her wildly curly hair and her big bright eyes and soft beautiful skin. I pray she knows who she is and walks confidently in that knowledge.
More importantly, I pray her mother is teaching her and modeling for her that true health is about the body, mind and spirit, not a certain clothing size. May the words of my mouth speak life and confidence into the girl God has placed in my care. Through the pages of a magazine, I saw a danger that is destroying the minds and bodies of more women than we may care to think about. That's not how it should be.
Eat well, exercise, and delight in who you are for you are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Sep 16, 2010
Sep 14, 2010
Why run when you can fly?
This morning as I was driving home from the gym, I noticed a small flock of birds. Some were propped on the sidewalk while another bird was running across the street. A bird was running. Not flying, but running his little self across the road. I had to wonder why that little bird would choose to run rather than fly. He was created and designed to fly. It is who he is, what he is made to do. Flying is in the bird's very nature. Yet, he was running. Odd isn't it?
During that simple observation of nature, I began to think of how we sometimes fail to do what we were created to do. We have every means to soar, yet we choose to run. There are days, I believe, we crawl rather than walk. We were created to be so much more than what most of us will ever realize.
There are opportunities for us to soar everywhere, if only we will pay attention, and take a risk every now and then. I see this, often, being in direct sales. I hear people say they want health, they want financial freedom, and I present the vehicle that will do that for them, that has done that for so many others. Rather than soaring and achieving more, the excuses begin, the doubts begin, and they hang their head and walk away. In all honesty, I do not understand this way of living. It seems many will choose a lack of living over doing what is required to grow, learn, and essentially, fly.
I would love if every person I spoke to about the opportunity I have took hold of it and began to soar. I would love nothing more to see people not only becoming healthier, but also becoming wealthier and living life on their own terms. The opportunity is here, but not all will take hold of it. I however will continue looking for those who will choose to fly, rather than walk, through life.
Will you soar?
During that simple observation of nature, I began to think of how we sometimes fail to do what we were created to do. We have every means to soar, yet we choose to run. There are days, I believe, we crawl rather than walk. We were created to be so much more than what most of us will ever realize.
There are opportunities for us to soar everywhere, if only we will pay attention, and take a risk every now and then. I see this, often, being in direct sales. I hear people say they want health, they want financial freedom, and I present the vehicle that will do that for them, that has done that for so many others. Rather than soaring and achieving more, the excuses begin, the doubts begin, and they hang their head and walk away. In all honesty, I do not understand this way of living. It seems many will choose a lack of living over doing what is required to grow, learn, and essentially, fly.
I would love if every person I spoke to about the opportunity I have took hold of it and began to soar. I would love nothing more to see people not only becoming healthier, but also becoming wealthier and living life on their own terms. The opportunity is here, but not all will take hold of it. I however will continue looking for those who will choose to fly, rather than walk, through life.
Will you soar?
Sep 12, 2010
A clarification if you please
The following is a conversation between my mother and I as we walked to the store this evening:
Mom: Do you really think we don't support you?
Me: What? What are you talking about?
Mom: Your last blog entry (read it here) makes it sound like we are horrible people who don't support you.
Me: Know it doesn't. I was speaking in general terms, and it doesn't make you all sound horrible. But you do tell me I'm crazy.
Mom: well, you are, but we fully support you and know you will do well.
I just reread the entry, and I still do not think it would be interpreted as she believes, but I want to clear this up because my mom (and the rest of the family) is very supportive of me, and always has been. My main point is that even in jest, negative comments can have an affect on others. I am blessed however to have a family who stands by me in all my wild decisions. In addition, that blog stemmed from a long converstaion with a friend who was struggling with belief in herself and her current endeavors.
That is all, and Mom, I love you and I get my crazy from you.
Mom: Do you really think we don't support you?
Me: What? What are you talking about?
Mom: Your last blog entry (read it here) makes it sound like we are horrible people who don't support you.
Me: Know it doesn't. I was speaking in general terms, and it doesn't make you all sound horrible. But you do tell me I'm crazy.
Mom: well, you are, but we fully support you and know you will do well.
I just reread the entry, and I still do not think it would be interpreted as she believes, but I want to clear this up because my mom (and the rest of the family) is very supportive of me, and always has been. My main point is that even in jest, negative comments can have an affect on others. I am blessed however to have a family who stands by me in all my wild decisions. In addition, that blog stemmed from a long converstaion with a friend who was struggling with belief in herself and her current endeavors.
That is all, and Mom, I love you and I get my crazy from you.
Sep 8, 2010
Changing of the Why
A few years ago, while I was taking part in the Music City Half Marathon, I was chosen to write an article on why I was running. As ironic as this sounds considering the fact I have a blog, it was a strange thing to have words I had written printed in the local newspaper. I half expected that no one would ever notice it, but I was wrong. Lo and behold, the day it ran, I walked into the English teacher's lounge and it was tacked up on the wall. My fellow teachers were kind enough to have not taken a red pen to my article in order to correct any mistakes, but it was strange being in a room full of people who had just taken a peep into the inner workings of my crazy mind. And yes, I did write the article, and yes, I knew it would be in the paper. Knowing and seeing it in reality were vastly different experiences.
As I have recently posted, I will be partaking in yet another full marathon. Anytime I reveal this little fact to people, there are typically crazy looks cast my way, comments telling me how crazy I am and the like. I have come to expect these responses to my choice. As obnoxious as it can be, especially when it is coming from family, I get it. Yes, it is kind of crazy. What many people seem unable to realize is how running imitates life. There are lessons to be learned and growth to be experienced (training), there are setbacks and trials (injuries and doubts), and there are moments when you simply have to decide you are going to do it regardless of the cost because you find it to be a worthy cause (crossing the finish line).
In "Coming Back Stronger" by Drew Brees, he writes that at one time in his life, he was fueled by the negative voices, and he wanted to prove them all wrong. However, he is now fueled by those who beleive in him, the one who stand alongside him and cheer him on. I rather like that line of thinking. While I originally took part in the marathon and multiple half marathons in order to silence the negative voices, I am now partaking in a marathon to confirm the positive ones. In spite of the negativity spoken in my life, there have also been many voices who spoke life, and truth, and encouragement. There are people who cheered for me, who stood beside me, who dared me to take risks, and continue to do so. They remind me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
Training for and completing a marathon is not easy, I can be honest about that. Some will say it is not even worth it because it is so hard on the body (that's ok, I have AdvoCare on my side this time around). But what I choose to do is listen solely to the positive voices, to release myself from the negativity, and to keep running.
Why do I run? Because I can. Why train? Because it is the only way I can accomplish my goal. Why spend the time required? Because I am worth it. Why? Because there is a little two year old girl in this house who needs to know that the power of the mind combined with the discipline of the body and attitude of the spirit can allow us to meet our goals, even if no one else understands them in the first place. Why? Because there are times in life we must get out of our comfort zone to become who we are meant to be.
As I have recently posted, I will be partaking in yet another full marathon. Anytime I reveal this little fact to people, there are typically crazy looks cast my way, comments telling me how crazy I am and the like. I have come to expect these responses to my choice. As obnoxious as it can be, especially when it is coming from family, I get it. Yes, it is kind of crazy. What many people seem unable to realize is how running imitates life. There are lessons to be learned and growth to be experienced (training), there are setbacks and trials (injuries and doubts), and there are moments when you simply have to decide you are going to do it regardless of the cost because you find it to be a worthy cause (crossing the finish line).
In "Coming Back Stronger" by Drew Brees, he writes that at one time in his life, he was fueled by the negative voices, and he wanted to prove them all wrong. However, he is now fueled by those who beleive in him, the one who stand alongside him and cheer him on. I rather like that line of thinking. While I originally took part in the marathon and multiple half marathons in order to silence the negative voices, I am now partaking in a marathon to confirm the positive ones. In spite of the negativity spoken in my life, there have also been many voices who spoke life, and truth, and encouragement. There are people who cheered for me, who stood beside me, who dared me to take risks, and continue to do so. They remind me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
Training for and completing a marathon is not easy, I can be honest about that. Some will say it is not even worth it because it is so hard on the body (that's ok, I have AdvoCare on my side this time around). But what I choose to do is listen solely to the positive voices, to release myself from the negativity, and to keep running.
Why do I run? Because I can. Why train? Because it is the only way I can accomplish my goal. Why spend the time required? Because I am worth it. Why? Because there is a little two year old girl in this house who needs to know that the power of the mind combined with the discipline of the body and attitude of the spirit can allow us to meet our goals, even if no one else understands them in the first place. Why? Because there are times in life we must get out of our comfort zone to become who we are meant to be.
Sep 7, 2010
Divas of the Divine
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D•I•V•A•S of the Divine - How to Live as a Designer Original in a Knock-Off World is more than just a Bible curriculum to participate in for a few weeks before moving on to the next study. It's an interactive experience with God.
Certified professional Christian life coaches Donna McCrary and Sherri Holbert lead you through interactive devotions, group challenges, open class discussions, creative activities, innovative and tangible action plans, and "get real" accountability, all designed to enable you to fully experience true success in your spiritual walk and personal relationships.
With D•I•V•A•S of the Divine you have the tools to discover your unique identity in Christ. You will become happier than you've ever been in your work, spiritual life, friendships, and family when you embrace the fact that you are a Designer original in a knock-off world.
To be completely honest, this is not a devotional I would personally choose. I do agree with its concept of needing accountability, daily prayer time, and knowing our purpose and value in this life. The concepts are valuable, and important for women to know and walk in, daily. I believe this would be wonderful for someone newer to their faith, or someone needing a place to start. Both authors are wonderfully witty and intelligent women, and there is a great deal of wisdom to be found in their curriculum. If you are looking for a place to start, I would highly recommend this devotional for you, it will not disappoint.
Sep 2, 2010
You can't put God in a box
Isaiah 40:25-28 (New International Version)
25 "To whom will you compare me?
Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One.
This morning I ventured out for my first day of Community Bible Study. Women from various churches are gathering to study God's word, something I know I am in need of. Although it's not ATI, I think I will enjoy it. There are moments I have to remind myself we have moved, these are different people, with different experiences, with different gifts. Not everyone can be as gifted at teaching as Kristi Mac, and so few are. But, I trust the appointment of each leader and even how they have chose the small groups. Onward I went, doing my best to refrain from comparing it to my ATI experience.
We are studying the book of Genesis which is a lovely place to start, in my opinion (wink wink). Since it was my first day attending, I had to sit through a few moments of an orientation (ie: listening to someone else read directly from a piece of paper I held in my hands). I nodded and smiled, and read for myself, and waited to be taken to my class. It is always nice to walk into a new group while they are in the middle of a discussion concerning work you have not done since it is your first day, isn't it? Oh well. It didn't take long for me to catch up and start filling in the questions as we went (Kristi, what you taught in ATI stuck!!!).
Towards the end of the discussion time, two questions were asked, "What do you think it means that God created us 'in His own image'?" and "How should this extraordinary concept affect our daily lives?" As we were discussing this, a lady made the comment that we often put God in a box and limit what He can do. Hold the phone. What? We have just discussed how God was before all of creation, that He chose to create the world and everything in it, created man in his own image, and chose to rest on the last day, and you think we, the created, can put Him, the creator, in a box? Sorry friend, I disagree.
We do not put God in a box. Rather, we place ourselves, our circumstances, and those around us in said box. We limit the possibilities by negating the fact we are God's chosen creation. We limit our healing, our growth, and our learning, by our own choice. We were created to be in relationship with Him. When we choose ourselves and our own selfish ambitions, we are casting aside the fullness God has for us in this life.
I sat there wondering if we have become such a self absorbed society that we believe we have that kind of power. We don't. We never have. We never will. We choose to follow, we choose to stray. We choose to be in fellowship, we choose to deny. Choose? Yes, we definitely choose. The one thing we cannot choose, however, is the fulfillment of God's promises. We cannot put God in a box, and that my friends, is one fact I shall rejoice over today.
26 Lift your eyes and look to the heavens:
Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one,
and calls them each by name.
Because of his great power and mighty strength,
not one of them is missing.
27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and complain, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the LORD;
my cause is disregarded by my God"?
28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.
This morning I ventured out for my first day of Community Bible Study. Women from various churches are gathering to study God's word, something I know I am in need of. Although it's not ATI, I think I will enjoy it. There are moments I have to remind myself we have moved, these are different people, with different experiences, with different gifts. Not everyone can be as gifted at teaching as Kristi Mac, and so few are. But, I trust the appointment of each leader and even how they have chose the small groups. Onward I went, doing my best to refrain from comparing it to my ATI experience.
We are studying the book of Genesis which is a lovely place to start, in my opinion (wink wink). Since it was my first day attending, I had to sit through a few moments of an orientation (ie: listening to someone else read directly from a piece of paper I held in my hands). I nodded and smiled, and read for myself, and waited to be taken to my class. It is always nice to walk into a new group while they are in the middle of a discussion concerning work you have not done since it is your first day, isn't it? Oh well. It didn't take long for me to catch up and start filling in the questions as we went (Kristi, what you taught in ATI stuck!!!).
Towards the end of the discussion time, two questions were asked, "What do you think it means that God created us 'in His own image'?" and "How should this extraordinary concept affect our daily lives?" As we were discussing this, a lady made the comment that we often put God in a box and limit what He can do. Hold the phone. What? We have just discussed how God was before all of creation, that He chose to create the world and everything in it, created man in his own image, and chose to rest on the last day, and you think we, the created, can put Him, the creator, in a box? Sorry friend, I disagree.
We do not put God in a box. Rather, we place ourselves, our circumstances, and those around us in said box. We limit the possibilities by negating the fact we are God's chosen creation. We limit our healing, our growth, and our learning, by our own choice. We were created to be in relationship with Him. When we choose ourselves and our own selfish ambitions, we are casting aside the fullness God has for us in this life.
I sat there wondering if we have become such a self absorbed society that we believe we have that kind of power. We don't. We never have. We never will. We choose to follow, we choose to stray. We choose to be in fellowship, we choose to deny. Choose? Yes, we definitely choose. The one thing we cannot choose, however, is the fulfillment of God's promises. We cannot put God in a box, and that my friends, is one fact I shall rejoice over today.
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