I'd like to write a book on Spiritual Disciplines, but I wonder if I truly am following the Holy Spirit.....or do I want to do something great? I am tired of the sin of Pride. Just today the Lord unvieled a whole new level. Honestly, I don't want to think about it. So that's why I decided I would make myself write about it.
First, I am always embarrassed to confess pride because I am sure that I am not measuring up to other people's standards of perfection in anything and so I feel I open myself up to criticism---and pride doesn't like that. Second, I want people to see my strengths, not my weaknesses. But really, God sees everything as it is and LOVES. So there is no fear in confession. People may reject or judge, but that is between them and God. I want to walk before God in truth.
So I would really love to write a book on the disciplines because God really has taken me from one spiritual place to another and He has done it by means of continual Grace. I believe He makes me sensitive to His voice by bringing me continually to Him. I believe many people long to grow in the Lord. It seems to me that people want to become suddenly "spiritual" and wise....as I did. But this book would have to be for the UNdisciplined.
As an undisciplined person, every habit I have has come by excrutiating effort! For some reason, I am naturally a retarded free spirit who is slothful and comfort oriented. The weirdest thing about me (well, hmmnnn....probably not the most weird, there is so much!) might be how I cannot do repetitive tasks in the same repeat manner. Praise God I do not work on an assembly line.
This peculiarity manifests itself in many ways. When cutting potatoes, I cannot cut them each the same way. I cut one or two in a certain way and then I change the process. When something is uncertain in writing or designing something, I will do it first one way and then the other---definitely ruins uniformity. I have always liked to drive different paths to the same destination. One day going the fastest, the next day going another route if possible.
I think that is what makes me a good choice to write a book about disciplines. It has taken such brokeness and well, I hesitate to say humility, but a distinct effort to look this in the face and declare it sin. That makes people SO UNCOMFORTABLE these days. People don't want to acknowlege their sin! But I see it this way....if it is a sin, I CAN REPENT! THERE IS DELIVERANCE FROM SIN! And I praise God for forgiveness.
The Word from God tells us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We know that we can approach the Throne of Grace boldly to receive mercy in our time of need. We don't have to stay in our sin. But we have to come humbly.
and maybe we don't have humility and that is why we can ask for it. We can ask God for anything. He truly does want to show us how much He cares for us. If we are in the growing process, He is SO GENEROUS with all that He gives! And He is faithful to answer prayers specifically and openly so that His children can see He is active and immediate in our lives. This often gives us strength to endure the parts of our lives that we find distasteful but must endure. He helps us to see He has not forgotten us during what we may see as a trial. Instead, He leads us through by His Grace openly.
Yet for a Christian who has been walking with Him for some time, He takes us higher by NOT answering prayer. Oh, do we trust Him then? He shows us how shallow we are because in the early days, we do NOT trust Him when we don't get what we want. We pout and get angry (hey, maybe I am speaking for myself.) and I think I still struggle here at times. Even all these 24 years later, which is nothing. I'm still a child in Him.
and WHY am I still a child in Him 24 years later? Because I loved Him so deeply at first but PRIDE was destroying me. I felt that I was more dedicated to Him than others. Pride comes before a fall and I had a terrible time that I call my Christian teen years. I doubted everything and did not get any joy from the Lord. I didn't want to belong to this Christian club anymore and wondered if I could fit in with the rest of the world.
THANKFULLY, I never could fit in with the world. Why? Because I never fit in anyway! Ha ha! But I interpreted it as the profound change in me due to Christ would no longer enable me to look at things the way the rest of the world looked at them. I STILL saw things through God's view. Except that now I had no consolation in terms of my good behavior. I wasn't reading my Bible, praying and wasn't really ever worshipping as I switched to listening to secular music. I yearned to know more of the world.
Again, I think I could write about the disciplines because God was so gracious in taking me through the book, "Celebration of the Disciplines" during this time. Somehow, He allowed me to crawl back little by little, but the amazing thing was every turn towards Him was met with such disgusting forgiveness and sappy love and acceptance. It seemed so wrong. But He really wanted me to understand, He saw my life from beginning to end--NOT the way I saw it as a big failure after some good growth. No, He saw how I would be restored completely and He made sure I knew that. Personally, it seemed like something ridiculous to imagine that I might actually believe in His Word again or really believe He existed, so it was sort of like mental gymnastics to flip flop between this part of me that was hearing and seeing God and this part of me that wanted to run away from God. But where do you run from God? He is everywhere and He is within. He won me over.
Everything was different coming through that and it still took several years to process. It wasn't until 2008 that God showed me the depths of pride in my soul. I'm glad He saved it for me until I could stand it. By then I was making sure my life was founded in discipline. I realized the value of coming before the Lord in mulitple ways across my whole life. As an undisciplined person, I struggled to orient myself to God in everything, but this was the beauty of Life. I don't think that sentence captures my meaning at all, since I can't really see a time since Salvation where I didn't know that everything related to God. But I guess I mean growing more and more to think like Him.
I am soooo weak and yet so loved by God. In my romantic moments, I am truly a martyr, a nun, whatever full devotion looks like--that's me. But living out day to day? Whiny, lazy, irritable and selfish. OUCH! Big difference. Practicing the disciplines of spiritual life have enabled me to be far more relational in my family and far more productive in my mundane obligations. This borders on miraculous when viewed from my own internal perspective.
That's the hope I wish I could bring to weak people like me. The transformation is so appreciated! So needed! God really FORMS His children! He is FAITHFUL. His Word is true and can be trusted. He is always right. He knows what is best. He is always ultimately good. He answers your doubts and questions. He puts you through fire and walks through it with you.
So how can an undisciplined person write about the spirtual disciplines? I don't know. By miracles, I suppose. I want something to pass on for all God has given me but it is only for those who don't care about external fruit but want to press on in loving God and making much of Him in spite of their own weak character. There is an audience out there, I know it. There are souls like me who adore Him but have much to be criticized for.....and I know that writing it out will bring so much more criticism!
Bring it on. Kill my pride. I want to live for the NEXT life and I want to bring as many people with me as possible. Perhaps some sweet soul who thought they loved God was really serving a god they created and by practicing disciplines, God reveals Himself to them and brings them forever into His eternal Kingdom! It could happen. We come to Him in so many ways.
I long to be a good evangelist but I seem to fail there despite prayer and effort. Yet God does use me to evangelize the heart of the believer. Whatever work He has for me, I want to be content in it. Yet I always want more of Him.
I meant to post about suffering, but that lack of discipline. ugh! I began reading St. John of the Cross: The Dark Night of the Soul and God showed me my immaturity in moment and it just stunned me. I'm such a baby Christian! And my reasons for wanting to be wise are just PRIDE!!! yikes! And that was why I wanted to be a missionary (He told me in 2008) and it just is always so ugly. But we must be killing pride. John Owen, a beloved Puritan, said, "Be killing sin or it will be killing you." and the disciplines really help with killing sin.
We go to God humbly and confess. We remember we died with Him on that cross and we invite His Life to come live through us. He forgives our sins because He paid for all of them. We thank Him for that blood that covers and cleanses. Through His Spirit, we follow a new way. The Holy Spirit leads us to that repentance that means we turn from that old way. We repent of our own efforts to do good or to change. This is DEATH and leads to pride again.
Acknowlege you have no good in you and invite the Holy Spirit, who lives in you if You have received Christ as Lord, to serve through you by His Power. He is all glorious! It is HIS work that is of value! You had no good in you ever, so repent of works and of efforts and yield and follow.
In Jesus' name, amen.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
The Lord is my Shepherd
Psalm 23
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.
Your rod and Your staff they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You annoint my head with oil.
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
I love this Psalm. It may have been one of the first passages I memorized as a new Christian 24 years ago. I used it as a prayer for Laura when she was a preteen and young teenager before she went to bed.
We had it printed out for her wedding as a group reading. Beautiful.
Today I am thinking about suffering. I am thinking about willingness to suffer.
I think suffering is easier to endure when you have a true faith in Jesus. It certainly is tested when you experience or witness intense suffering. So many people want to turn away from God in the face of suffering. How wise is that? There is an eternal one who runs the universe. What benefit is it to a small finite person to turn their back on their Creator?
When we suffer, we tend to say one of four things (maybe all of them.) No! Why? Help! and Ouch (or some groans from deep within and many tears.)
Our first instinct is to deny what is now inevitable. We dread the pain we are about to slide into. We fear it will consume us. Our whole world may have changed irrevocably in one moment and we want to get back to the immediate past and restore things, please. Please. No.
We are confused. We all long for the eternal joy and peace of heaven, but it is not here in this life. We feel cheated. We should not have to lose anything. We should not have pain. We hunger for a perfect life. Now it is worse than imperfect. Why me? Why now? Why? Why? WHY!?!? We demand an explanation from the universe. We grope for something to cling to for hope or we sink into despair.
Here it is so beautiful if we have given our lives to Jesus in a true switch--His life for our life. Here we can remember that this is HIS life we are living and He is our Rock. Our circumstances and our loved ones and our job or our health--those things are not our Rock. We are eternal and no matter how horrifying, these things will pass. We can endure all things because we endure forever with Him. I consider how God brought people through horrors like Nazi Germany or Rowanda and all genocide, abuse, and torture. Human beings can transcend these agonies because the Lord made us to live for all time and beyond into infinity. Once created, we cannot be uncreated. We are an eternal soul with a body.
I guess I was just thinking how thankful I am to know and love Jesus and to trust Him implicitly. Perhaps I will experience the most horrifying losses and question him profoundly. He will take me through. Besides that, I'm not LIKELY to experience intense suffering beyond general human experience but all of my suffering, and all of yours, is so deeply personal. We have to look to God for ourselves and find Him there with us because in Him we live and move and have our being. He is close. We usually ignore Him and trust all the world is telling us, particularly what we sense through our eyes, ears, and other senses. As if that reality is "real" and our invisible God is maybe real.
Oh but we will SEE! We will see Him as He is! and this temporal world will all pass away! It will roll up like a scroll. Eons from now, this world will be so remote. Our time here nearly forgotten. Some will be in everlasting life rejoicing. I like what Mark Driscoll says when imagining himself in heaven, living in eternity, sometime in the future and looking back, "I think I wore a hat." Yes, all our experiences will not be the primary ones!
and for those who refused to believe in Jesus as Messiah. Those who refused to trust Him. Those who wanted to keep their lives. Oh my gosh, the horror of it. Eternal damnation, just like the old Puritans warned. Easy to criticize and laugh them off. They were vying for your SOUL! They desired that you would be SAVED!!! It was LOVE of God and LOVE of man that compelled them to insist you come to Jesus--even as they were mocked and scorned and laughed at and dismissed. I feel their pain. I feel the agony of knowing so called Christians loving the world and everything in it and unwilling to die to this life. How horrifying their rude awakening. Now THAT is suffering! This life can do nothing to match it.
(to be continued....)
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.
Your rod and Your staff they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You annoint my head with oil.
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
I love this Psalm. It may have been one of the first passages I memorized as a new Christian 24 years ago. I used it as a prayer for Laura when she was a preteen and young teenager before she went to bed.
We had it printed out for her wedding as a group reading. Beautiful.
Today I am thinking about suffering. I am thinking about willingness to suffer.
I think suffering is easier to endure when you have a true faith in Jesus. It certainly is tested when you experience or witness intense suffering. So many people want to turn away from God in the face of suffering. How wise is that? There is an eternal one who runs the universe. What benefit is it to a small finite person to turn their back on their Creator?
When we suffer, we tend to say one of four things (maybe all of them.) No! Why? Help! and Ouch (or some groans from deep within and many tears.)
Our first instinct is to deny what is now inevitable. We dread the pain we are about to slide into. We fear it will consume us. Our whole world may have changed irrevocably in one moment and we want to get back to the immediate past and restore things, please. Please. No.
We are confused. We all long for the eternal joy and peace of heaven, but it is not here in this life. We feel cheated. We should not have to lose anything. We should not have pain. We hunger for a perfect life. Now it is worse than imperfect. Why me? Why now? Why? Why? WHY!?!? We demand an explanation from the universe. We grope for something to cling to for hope or we sink into despair.
Here it is so beautiful if we have given our lives to Jesus in a true switch--His life for our life. Here we can remember that this is HIS life we are living and He is our Rock. Our circumstances and our loved ones and our job or our health--those things are not our Rock. We are eternal and no matter how horrifying, these things will pass. We can endure all things because we endure forever with Him. I consider how God brought people through horrors like Nazi Germany or Rowanda and all genocide, abuse, and torture. Human beings can transcend these agonies because the Lord made us to live for all time and beyond into infinity. Once created, we cannot be uncreated. We are an eternal soul with a body.
I guess I was just thinking how thankful I am to know and love Jesus and to trust Him implicitly. Perhaps I will experience the most horrifying losses and question him profoundly. He will take me through. Besides that, I'm not LIKELY to experience intense suffering beyond general human experience but all of my suffering, and all of yours, is so deeply personal. We have to look to God for ourselves and find Him there with us because in Him we live and move and have our being. He is close. We usually ignore Him and trust all the world is telling us, particularly what we sense through our eyes, ears, and other senses. As if that reality is "real" and our invisible God is maybe real.
Oh but we will SEE! We will see Him as He is! and this temporal world will all pass away! It will roll up like a scroll. Eons from now, this world will be so remote. Our time here nearly forgotten. Some will be in everlasting life rejoicing. I like what Mark Driscoll says when imagining himself in heaven, living in eternity, sometime in the future and looking back, "I think I wore a hat." Yes, all our experiences will not be the primary ones!
and for those who refused to believe in Jesus as Messiah. Those who refused to trust Him. Those who wanted to keep their lives. Oh my gosh, the horror of it. Eternal damnation, just like the old Puritans warned. Easy to criticize and laugh them off. They were vying for your SOUL! They desired that you would be SAVED!!! It was LOVE of God and LOVE of man that compelled them to insist you come to Jesus--even as they were mocked and scorned and laughed at and dismissed. I feel their pain. I feel the agony of knowing so called Christians loving the world and everything in it and unwilling to die to this life. How horrifying their rude awakening. Now THAT is suffering! This life can do nothing to match it.
(to be continued....)
Monday, November 07, 2011
Christabel reports on Vivian
On the 4thof November, David and I attended Vivian’s prayer day at Bumamu primary school. Henry also accompanied us. They were glad to see us and gave us a warm welcome. We arrived on time, as it did not take long before the ceremony began.
There were orations from various teachers and parents. They also acknowledged our presence and Henry introduced us and gave a speech on behalf of TGD.
Most of the speeches were full of encouragements to the candidates.
We were also blessed with a word of God from a priest from the Anglican Church who happens to be the sponsors of the school.
We had a chance to meet with Vivian, encouraged her to put all her efforts together and do her best in her final examination, and told her to look for ways to be an active force in her own life. Take charge of her own destiny, design a life of substance and truly begin to live her dream.
She promised not to disappoint TGD and her sponsor. We are certain she will perform well because she has been the best pupil in her class.
Otherwise, we had a great time and she was very happy to see us there.
There were orations from various teachers and parents. They also acknowledged our presence and Henry introduced us and gave a speech on behalf of TGD.
Most of the speeches were full of encouragements to the candidates.
We were also blessed with a word of God from a priest from the Anglican Church who happens to be the sponsors of the school.
We had a chance to meet with Vivian, encouraged her to put all her efforts together and do her best in her final examination, and told her to look for ways to be an active force in her own life. Take charge of her own destiny, design a life of substance and truly begin to live her dream.
She promised not to disappoint TGD and her sponsor. We are certain she will perform well because she has been the best pupil in her class.
Otherwise, we had a great time and she was very happy to see us there.
Prayer for Vivian's High School Entry Exams...
Lord, we thank you for providing for Vivian and we ask that she excel in her exam. Help her to remember all You have taught her. Help her to answer every question correctly. Thank you that You are making a way for her where there was no way. Thank you for letting us take the burden of her education upon us, Lord. Thank you for letting us come alongside her guardian and extended family. Thank you in advance for the great blessing in her life and we ask that she be a light for Your Glory and give you praise all the days of her life. May you reveal Jesus to her and may she trust in Him alone. May you set her free in this life and the next, in Jesus name. Lord, we ask this for all our children, bless them and heal them and strengthen them in their spirit, soul, and body, in Jesus name. Grant them your salvation unto eternal life. Let them be a light to the nations, Lord, to carry the GOOD NEWS to other lands and other tribes and other peoples. Equip them, Lord. Guard them from temptation, in Jesus name. Be exalted in their lives. Provide for their needs and let them live generous lives. We ask all this for Your Glory, and Your Name, in the Name of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, November 06, 2011
Way behind......
Donors and Sponsors: We LOVE YOU! Thank you so much for caring for our Kenyan friends and family. You cannot imagine the gratitude that is poured out to God for the things you are doing.
I am a bit behind on some thing I'd love to do for you. I went down to see Anita and Titus last week and had a great time! I got to meet some sponsors and SOME LOVELY SAINTS WANTED TO BECOME SPONSORS OR INCREASE THEIR SPONSORED CHILDREN. Do I have the best unpaid job in the entire world or what?!? I could not be happier (well, if Jesus was visibly right in front of me.....then again, I might not be able to handle that. I need a glorified body first.)
This week I went to see my Dad and Alitya in Port Townsend, Washington (state). Oh we had a great time. A nice short visit (the way Dad likes em.) He turned 79 this year! wow! and great health. Steve went, too, and we all went hiking in the woods. It was beautiful.
You know, I think it would be nice to avoid some travel, but how can I avoid loving others! I love all of you! Now I just need a trip to Austin, maybe one to Tennesee for Elaine and one to Florida for Allison. and I am ready to go to Kenya again. I did not get enough time with my beloved students turned men and women and my precious children, the sponsored orphans and needy ones. They are really wonderful individuals and how I wish I would SPEAK easily with all of them. My Kiswahili seems to have abandoned me--but my heart overflows with love and joy for my Kenyan family. They all make me so proud of them and glad to be in community with them and glad to be participating with them in glorifying the Lord Jesus. I will try to get some pictures up here.
Kevin has taken some AMAZING photos of the animals we saw there and he has said if anyone buys any of the photos, he will donate that to TGD.
Blessings to readers! I am thankful you stopped by to visit us here on blogspot. May God bless you abundantly, in Jesus name.
I am a bit behind on some thing I'd love to do for you. I went down to see Anita and Titus last week and had a great time! I got to meet some sponsors and SOME LOVELY SAINTS WANTED TO BECOME SPONSORS OR INCREASE THEIR SPONSORED CHILDREN. Do I have the best unpaid job in the entire world or what?!? I could not be happier (well, if Jesus was visibly right in front of me.....then again, I might not be able to handle that. I need a glorified body first.)
This week I went to see my Dad and Alitya in Port Townsend, Washington (state). Oh we had a great time. A nice short visit (the way Dad likes em.) He turned 79 this year! wow! and great health. Steve went, too, and we all went hiking in the woods. It was beautiful.
You know, I think it would be nice to avoid some travel, but how can I avoid loving others! I love all of you! Now I just need a trip to Austin, maybe one to Tennesee for Elaine and one to Florida for Allison. and I am ready to go to Kenya again. I did not get enough time with my beloved students turned men and women and my precious children, the sponsored orphans and needy ones. They are really wonderful individuals and how I wish I would SPEAK easily with all of them. My Kiswahili seems to have abandoned me--but my heart overflows with love and joy for my Kenyan family. They all make me so proud of them and glad to be in community with them and glad to be participating with them in glorifying the Lord Jesus. I will try to get some pictures up here.
Kevin has taken some AMAZING photos of the animals we saw there and he has said if anyone buys any of the photos, he will donate that to TGD.
Blessings to readers! I am thankful you stopped by to visit us here on blogspot. May God bless you abundantly, in Jesus name.
11th distribution===ALL PRAISES TO GOD! Report from Jack.....
Lydia
ElizabethThe day was great. Most of the guardians were present together with their children. Diana, Vivian, Chrispinus and Evangeline are busy preparing for the national exams and therefore were not present at the venue. Their guardians were not there either and instead of giving them monthly supply, the team is now focusing on how they will make it to the high school. This is going to be a great challenge but we are believing the lord of miracles.
The meeting kicked off at exactly ten o’clock with the junior team and then the senior team joined later. Most guardians did not have questions during the session. I think this is because most of the questions were answered during the last distribution. They just came for their gifts and also get some information from the staff.
Christian morals of the children was the main topic. The team encouraged the parents to help their children to understand how the lord has loved them and pray for salvation to their children for there is no meaning in all of these when they are destined to go to hell. Joseph urged the guardians to unite in prayer and dedicate the team which is going to sit for national exams next week to the almighty God.
Frank highlighted on various things including the plans a head. He urged the guardians to work hard in whatever income generating activities they are involved in e.g. farming, small business etc. This will enable the guardians to become independent hence being able to take care of the children on their own. He said TGD is willing to help so long as they have a good plan and strategy.
Each child received the following items; 2kgs of sugar, 2kgs of rice, 2kgs of wheat flour, 1 liter of cooking oil,100gms of Dettol soap, bar soap,2 rolls of tissue paper, tea leaves, salt and mango fruits.
Special cases were as follows; Zainabu, Cynthia, Sharon and Lillian received sanitary towels. Fredrick and Yvonne received amaranth and aloe vera juice which has greatly boosted their general health. The following continues to receive money for buying milk to keep them throughout the month, these are; Emmanuel, Benjamin, Yvonne, Fredrick, Elizabeth and Asman.
There was lunch for the whole team. Children took fresh juice and bread while the guardians and the staff had sodas and bread. We shared these blessings together and their faces spoke much louder than words. After the meal all the guardian received their luggages. We had photos together and gathered for a special closing prayer by Joseph. We also had a short staff meeting after the distribution.
This program is a great relief to this impoverished society. We pray that our God helps our donors to really understand the critical role they are playing in the lives of these children. We bless them and may goodness and mercies of our lord follow them all forever more. Amen.
Fridah doesn't seem to be getting enough food
Friday, October 28, 2011
Henry and Joseph on their new motorcycles
Here is some news cut from an email from Frank:
Joseph has been working on the website to make it meet the specifications you requested.
Lawrence has been in charge of the newsletters and contents therein and has been collecting articles and other pieces of information from all team members so that he can put it all together. I requested him to also collect information we will put in the special edition newsletter but that will get a special review from both Joseph and I before sending over to you.I have Jack overseeing the rest in the various tasks they are performing as well as assign tasks to the other team members based on abilities. He is also sourcing the prices of printing the booklets for the pastors will forward the same to you for approval. We had a leaders' meeting and discussed the matter in detail.
In a previous leaders' meeting last week, we also discussed the various expense lines for the orphan administration funds and created a monthly budget for the same. I am working with Joseph in coming up with the document detailing how the orphan program works and we will have it as a document and also integrate it into our website.
I am also working on have some team members responsible for updating and keeping our Facebook fan page current so first I had to walk everyone through either configuring their phones or computers to receive TGD mail through outlook. It is faster, costs less because of shorter internet time and allows them to compose mail while offline and only make a connection when ready to send. Also all received mail are easily available on the local computer especially for reference purposes.
In summary I thank you so much for considering Henry and purchasing him a bike. You can tell from his facial expression that he is all happy and excited and we share in his joy as his trips and journeys have now been made more manageable. I have attached pictures for you to share in the joy. God Bless you so much.
On the side, I have made several attempts to send Kevin's glasses via Fedex and they refuse to take them without a prescription so I wrote to Kevin explaining the same and requesting him to scan his prescription for the glasses so that I can attach with them but I haven't heard back from him so I am waiting. I was also required to write a letter explaining that the glasses belonged to an American citizen and were forgotten in the vehicle while they were at the airport. Quite honestly I did not think that it was that difficult to send a pair of glasses to the States. Apparently they are classified together with medicine or something and so there is a process involved. Oh and in addition there is yet another form I have to fill. I don't mind the process but thought I should highlight the situation on the ground so that you may understand why the delay.
Okay, now this is Stephanie writing: I wanted to add that part about the glasses. It is very difficult to do things in Kenya that we take for granted. Many things take more process and more time. It's just hard. So when someone asks me to do this or that--sometimes I am not able to convey how difficult it can be going through the steps needed. The glasses are just a picture of normal business operations in Kenya. I pray God bring them the breakthrough!
Met with Titus! In the USA!
I had a great time in Southern Illinois this week. I drove down to see Titus and Rose. How exciting to see them in the USA! I had been planning to go see Anita ever since I've moved up here in April. But my personal travel schedule has been full and I've had a lot of wonderful visitors to my home. So it was God's timing and I rejoiced to make the 6+ hour drive with the beautiful changing tree colors of red, orange, gold, brown, green and just so many shades of beautiful.
I was so blessed to meet Anita's friends and see some I'd met before. I love Ed and Anita--they are Mom and Dad AND Brother and Sister to me. I've known Ed since 1987--BEFORE I WAS SAVED! And who knows if the Lord used him at that time? Jesus revealed Himself to me in December of 1987 and my whole world changed forever.
Anita was such a blessing to me as a young mom. She is very down to earth and loving and friendly. We are so much alike except that I was uptight about EVERYTHING and fearful and just plain inexperienced in life. Anita showed me the way of peace. She led me in serving the Lord with joy and abandon and Ed showed me how to walk with the Lord, learning His Word and obeying His Commands. We had a wonderful church family to raise our children (my children are about the same ages as Ed's and Anita's.)
Well, I ALWAYS love coming to Little Chapel! I first came for Rachel's wedding. Titus was there and oddly, we did not meet at that time! I did meet Joe Roberts, I remember.
but to come up again and meet friends at the Missions Board--what a blessing. People with the same heart as mine, loving the Lord and loving others. I really enjoyed visiting. I really enjoyed hearing Titus speak and even getting a chance to affirm what the Lord is doing in his community through him and Rose. He had a great video which was like coming home for me to watch. I love my Kenyan family! They are a part of me and it is my joy to serve them however the Lord makes a way.
I got to meet several orphan sponsors: Jody Williams, Cindy Winters, Heather Sais, Terah Ann Stearns, and Darla Martin. AND the Lord added Lisa and Jerrilyn to our family (Oh Jerrilyn, I may have misspelled your name because it is not right in front of me. I'll get it right soon! Hugs!) We had SO MUCH FUN (well, I had fall off your seat fun) talking about the children and my experiences in Kenya. Anita and I just really enjoyed it. These are her home group women and we had a blast. We laughed, we cried, they gave and I love them for it! Glory to God! THANK YOU WOMEN OF GOD!
I pray the Lord gives me some time to go back there. What a great time I have with Anita and her friends and family. Love Love Love.
All Glory to Jesus for those He knits our hearts to!! He is too good to me. I praise Him!
I was so blessed to meet Anita's friends and see some I'd met before. I love Ed and Anita--they are Mom and Dad AND Brother and Sister to me. I've known Ed since 1987--BEFORE I WAS SAVED! And who knows if the Lord used him at that time? Jesus revealed Himself to me in December of 1987 and my whole world changed forever.
Anita was such a blessing to me as a young mom. She is very down to earth and loving and friendly. We are so much alike except that I was uptight about EVERYTHING and fearful and just plain inexperienced in life. Anita showed me the way of peace. She led me in serving the Lord with joy and abandon and Ed showed me how to walk with the Lord, learning His Word and obeying His Commands. We had a wonderful church family to raise our children (my children are about the same ages as Ed's and Anita's.)
Well, I ALWAYS love coming to Little Chapel! I first came for Rachel's wedding. Titus was there and oddly, we did not meet at that time! I did meet Joe Roberts, I remember.
but to come up again and meet friends at the Missions Board--what a blessing. People with the same heart as mine, loving the Lord and loving others. I really enjoyed visiting. I really enjoyed hearing Titus speak and even getting a chance to affirm what the Lord is doing in his community through him and Rose. He had a great video which was like coming home for me to watch. I love my Kenyan family! They are a part of me and it is my joy to serve them however the Lord makes a way.
I got to meet several orphan sponsors: Jody Williams, Cindy Winters, Heather Sais, Terah Ann Stearns, and Darla Martin. AND the Lord added Lisa and Jerrilyn to our family (Oh Jerrilyn, I may have misspelled your name because it is not right in front of me. I'll get it right soon! Hugs!) We had SO MUCH FUN (well, I had fall off your seat fun) talking about the children and my experiences in Kenya. Anita and I just really enjoyed it. These are her home group women and we had a blast. We laughed, we cried, they gave and I love them for it! Glory to God! THANK YOU WOMEN OF GOD!
I pray the Lord gives me some time to go back there. What a great time I have with Anita and her friends and family. Love Love Love.
All Glory to Jesus for those He knits our hearts to!! He is too good to me. I praise Him!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Bible Study Report: Photos down below Erick's testimony
It is great joy to see the gospel spreading to more people. People getting to understand the true picture of the bible. The bible materials you left is a great boost to the spreading of the gospel in this community. Most people in this community don’t know how to read and write and only a quarter of the Christian population owns bibles. This means that Pastors have a great task to make people understand the word of God. But also this poses a great challenge; most preachers and teachers lack efficient teaching materials. We thank God for these few teaching materials from Willow Creek Church. It is what is making the whole difference.
God enabled us to attend two sermons in different churches and one thing in common was that all the pastors were using teaching materials from willow creek church. We worshiped and praised together. There was a mighty moving of the Lord in these sermons.
I had hard time choosing in which church to go because almost every pastor that attended the teachings last Sunday wanted us to fellowship in their respective churches. Most Pastors were eager to share with their congregations using the bible teaching materials that they received. We decided to visit two churches today and those are Ituti and Shitsitwi Cornerstone Ministries. As you are aware this is a ministry that has more than 40 branches in this locality.
The main speaker at Shitsitwi was Mr. Raphael Indoshi, a bible college student and a member of cornerstone. We reached there at around 9:00am. Mr. Raphael had an initial plan of visiting all of the 40 plus churches to teach the people the word of God. When he received the teaching materials, He decided that he will be using them in most of his meetings. God is empowering these teachings and this is a blessing. He only taught section one and a general overview of the material and it took Him long. I think these materials are deeper and we pray that God will open the understanding of His people so that they may understand His purpose to them. We praised the Lord together and left for Ituti.
Rev. Stanley Ingoka of Ituti Cornerstone also taught section one and a general overview. We arrived there in the course of the teachings. What interested the people was the cards. Those cards I think made the congregation livelier and it made them to understand better, especially the pictures. This pastor is really a gifted teacher of the word. He taught this material fluently in Luhya, the community language. We also had much to learn through these teachings. This is the best way to make people understand the bible. Most pastors have found these materials to be interesting and very effective in teaching the word. They Plan to ensure that the teachings reaches to more people and we praise the Lord for this.
Pastors requested us to pass their thanks to you and Willow Creek Church. They greatly appreciate these bible materials. Pastor Ingoka advised the congregation to take the teaching seriously and teach them to their families. We pray that God is opening ways for these pastors to get more materials and use them to change the world to Christ.
God enabled us to attend two sermons in different churches and one thing in common was that all the pastors were using teaching materials from willow creek church. We worshiped and praised together. There was a mighty moving of the Lord in these sermons.
I had hard time choosing in which church to go because almost every pastor that attended the teachings last Sunday wanted us to fellowship in their respective churches. Most Pastors were eager to share with their congregations using the bible teaching materials that they received. We decided to visit two churches today and those are Ituti and Shitsitwi Cornerstone Ministries. As you are aware this is a ministry that has more than 40 branches in this locality.
The main speaker at Shitsitwi was Mr. Raphael Indoshi, a bible college student and a member of cornerstone. We reached there at around 9:00am. Mr. Raphael had an initial plan of visiting all of the 40 plus churches to teach the people the word of God. When he received the teaching materials, He decided that he will be using them in most of his meetings. God is empowering these teachings and this is a blessing. He only taught section one and a general overview of the material and it took Him long. I think these materials are deeper and we pray that God will open the understanding of His people so that they may understand His purpose to them. We praised the Lord together and left for Ituti.
Rev. Stanley Ingoka of Ituti Cornerstone also taught section one and a general overview. We arrived there in the course of the teachings. What interested the people was the cards. Those cards I think made the congregation livelier and it made them to understand better, especially the pictures. This pastor is really a gifted teacher of the word. He taught this material fluently in Luhya, the community language. We also had much to learn through these teachings. This is the best way to make people understand the bible. Most pastors have found these materials to be interesting and very effective in teaching the word. They Plan to ensure that the teachings reaches to more people and we praise the Lord for this.
Pastors requested us to pass their thanks to you and Willow Creek Church. They greatly appreciate these bible materials. Pastor Ingoka advised the congregation to take the teaching seriously and teach them to their families. We pray that God is opening ways for these pastors to get more materials and use them to change the world to Christ.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Erick's Testimony--Scroll down for his picture....
Am Erick, I was born in a very small and pour family within Kakamega District, western province part of Kenya. I lost my father and mother at the age of 4 and 5 consecutively and therefore I did not enjoy the parental love and care. My dad was polygamous, He had three wives and my mother happened to be the small woman and I was the only child from my mom. I stayed with my step mother who did some menial works in farming to keep me, her four children and my six step-brothers of her deceased co-wife. We hardly had meals in a day and we found it a problem to get basic needs like clothing and shelter.
I was thereafter adopted by my paternal uncle who was also not financially stable to fully sustain my studies and basic needs as well even though he wished to. My uncle’s family was God fearing and this made me to know Jesus at the age of 10 years. We went to church every Sunday and my uncle used to encourage and motivate me. I therefore recognized the magnitude of God at my early stage, by seeing many things He had done in my life. Whenever I was either spiritually or physically wounded he comforted me and gave me hope in life. This kind of life transformed me to a hard and strong young boy in the locality.
Despite the problems and difficulties I faced, I kept pushing on and working hard both at school and home. I used to help the family in doing some of jobs like washing, digging, cleaning the compound and more others. My hard-work brought me some opportunities for example through good performance at school, a well wisher stepped in to help me in paying school fees. This man of God paid my primary and secondary school fees. However, I used to guard his home, look after his animals, guard his farm, cleaning and some other manual jobs within his compound. However, the breakthroughs and experience made me to realize that the created universe is all about glory of God.
I stayed a prisoner life because I could not express myself or suggest any thing myself even if the thing had to affect my life, this kind of hostile environment scorned and intimidated me so much, but I prayed to God for freedom. My sharp brain made teachers to like me and always used me as an example to teach others. After my forth form course, I stayed home for two years jobless only to meet small opportunities that could come on my way like digging, weeding, harvesting and house construction for money.
In the year 2010 I was enrolled in the tgd community computer training where I studied computer packages and thereafter am studying computer programming course. This has involved some of programming languages like: html, xhtml, css, sql, C#, Asp.net among others. I also learned some other skills like: picture managing, web applications, Leadership skills by John Maxwell just to mention but few. At first, programming seemed to be so hard but when I deed it now and then, it has become fun in life. I therefore like it and I ask God to open the ways for tgd Kenyan programming team to start applying programming skills and knowledge in the daily life scenarios.
Apart from learning, I got an opportunity to work in the orphan’s project whereby I and my friends ensures that we visit orphans’ homes and find out some of basic things they need e:g food, medical, clothing, bedding and more others. We also visit them at schools and find out their curricular activities, education progress and challenges for instance, school fees, school uniform, course books, and shoes. By the fact that I grew up as an orphan, I stand a chance to understand very well problems affecting our orphans.
I not only monitor their physical growth but also encourage and motivate their spiritual development. I always tell them that God has a purpose for them and that Jesus is the father of orphans. My testimony sounds a blessing and miraculously encouraging to them thus giving them a step of faith and hope in life. I have a passion in serving them. I love and care for our orphans. Working with orphans is now part and parcel of my life because I enjoy being close to them as my brothers and sisters. Before I joined in the computer classes for my studies, I was very childish and I had fear to even speak before people, but I thank God because am now transformed in a new object that can boldly speak and express myself before congregations. This only happened after several lessons from good speakers like Stephanie, Steve and many other skilled speakers who taught me communication skills.
In addition, I advocate for the rights of orphans and weakened. Right now I stay with my Grandmother who initially found it rough to fully sustain her family of 6 grandchildren inclusive of me, but she now found it ease because of my support. I basically help the family in making decisions, buying food and many other social and basic issues. However, I glorify the lord because of the great transformation in my life because I see a great change and global growth in me spiritually, physically mentally and socially which gives me something to tell other people about God. This transformation has made me to be resourceful in the community, hence realizing leadership and development potential in me.
On 5th October, Mama Stephanie gave us a very wonderful talk; she encouraged us through her testimony. I learned that hard work pays and that God raises His people from very low background to a high level no matter what. Very many youth were happy, blessed and felt that Mama comes and to speak to us more. This is because many of us run short of faith and wisdom but such teachings gives hope and builds youths’ motives in working for God. However, I reflected my life and tried to compare with the teachings and realized that the teachings came to me at the right time, because I had lost hope in life and seen myself to be inferior.
Last but not list, God gave us a good team in Kenya which promotes love and unit. We don’t work to compete but to complete one another. We work and follow the footsteps of our fore leaders for instance Frank, Joseph and Henry who harmoniously work to make sure that we grow and perfect in our areas of profession. We see God’s manifestation of love and caring in the community and we wait to see what He has in stalk for us. I humbly take this golden opportunity to also thank the Almighty who inspired Mama Stephanie, Steve, Kevin, Pastor Ade, Anita as tgd vision bearers and other sponsors who came and brought light that will save lives of many Kenyans. I pray God to give them long lives, protect their families and bless works of their hands. Yours Erick.
I was thereafter adopted by my paternal uncle who was also not financially stable to fully sustain my studies and basic needs as well even though he wished to. My uncle’s family was God fearing and this made me to know Jesus at the age of 10 years. We went to church every Sunday and my uncle used to encourage and motivate me. I therefore recognized the magnitude of God at my early stage, by seeing many things He had done in my life. Whenever I was either spiritually or physically wounded he comforted me and gave me hope in life. This kind of life transformed me to a hard and strong young boy in the locality.
Despite the problems and difficulties I faced, I kept pushing on and working hard both at school and home. I used to help the family in doing some of jobs like washing, digging, cleaning the compound and more others. My hard-work brought me some opportunities for example through good performance at school, a well wisher stepped in to help me in paying school fees. This man of God paid my primary and secondary school fees. However, I used to guard his home, look after his animals, guard his farm, cleaning and some other manual jobs within his compound. However, the breakthroughs and experience made me to realize that the created universe is all about glory of God.
I stayed a prisoner life because I could not express myself or suggest any thing myself even if the thing had to affect my life, this kind of hostile environment scorned and intimidated me so much, but I prayed to God for freedom. My sharp brain made teachers to like me and always used me as an example to teach others. After my forth form course, I stayed home for two years jobless only to meet small opportunities that could come on my way like digging, weeding, harvesting and house construction for money.
In the year 2010 I was enrolled in the tgd community computer training where I studied computer packages and thereafter am studying computer programming course. This has involved some of programming languages like: html, xhtml, css, sql, C#, Asp.net among others. I also learned some other skills like: picture managing, web applications, Leadership skills by John Maxwell just to mention but few. At first, programming seemed to be so hard but when I deed it now and then, it has become fun in life. I therefore like it and I ask God to open the ways for tgd Kenyan programming team to start applying programming skills and knowledge in the daily life scenarios.
Apart from learning, I got an opportunity to work in the orphan’s project whereby I and my friends ensures that we visit orphans’ homes and find out some of basic things they need e:g food, medical, clothing, bedding and more others. We also visit them at schools and find out their curricular activities, education progress and challenges for instance, school fees, school uniform, course books, and shoes. By the fact that I grew up as an orphan, I stand a chance to understand very well problems affecting our orphans.
I not only monitor their physical growth but also encourage and motivate their spiritual development. I always tell them that God has a purpose for them and that Jesus is the father of orphans. My testimony sounds a blessing and miraculously encouraging to them thus giving them a step of faith and hope in life. I have a passion in serving them. I love and care for our orphans. Working with orphans is now part and parcel of my life because I enjoy being close to them as my brothers and sisters. Before I joined in the computer classes for my studies, I was very childish and I had fear to even speak before people, but I thank God because am now transformed in a new object that can boldly speak and express myself before congregations. This only happened after several lessons from good speakers like Stephanie, Steve and many other skilled speakers who taught me communication skills.
In addition, I advocate for the rights of orphans and weakened. Right now I stay with my Grandmother who initially found it rough to fully sustain her family of 6 grandchildren inclusive of me, but she now found it ease because of my support. I basically help the family in making decisions, buying food and many other social and basic issues. However, I glorify the lord because of the great transformation in my life because I see a great change and global growth in me spiritually, physically mentally and socially which gives me something to tell other people about God. This transformation has made me to be resourceful in the community, hence realizing leadership and development potential in me.
On 5th October, Mama Stephanie gave us a very wonderful talk; she encouraged us through her testimony. I learned that hard work pays and that God raises His people from very low background to a high level no matter what. Very many youth were happy, blessed and felt that Mama comes and to speak to us more. This is because many of us run short of faith and wisdom but such teachings gives hope and builds youths’ motives in working for God. However, I reflected my life and tried to compare with the teachings and realized that the teachings came to me at the right time, because I had lost hope in life and seen myself to be inferior.
Last but not list, God gave us a good team in Kenya which promotes love and unit. We don’t work to compete but to complete one another. We work and follow the footsteps of our fore leaders for instance Frank, Joseph and Henry who harmoniously work to make sure that we grow and perfect in our areas of profession. We see God’s manifestation of love and caring in the community and we wait to see what He has in stalk for us. I humbly take this golden opportunity to also thank the Almighty who inspired Mama Stephanie, Steve, Kevin, Pastor Ade, Anita as tgd vision bearers and other sponsors who came and brought light that will save lives of many Kenyans. I pray God to give them long lives, protect their families and bless works of their hands. Yours Erick.
Sunday October 16 ALL PRAISE TO GOD!
All praise to God for the opportunity He gave our churches! Through Trinity Global Development, God used Willow Creek Community Church to supply Cornerstone Church Kenya with Bible Study Materials. You may have seen earlier pictures of Jackson teaching pastors (scroll down.) Here Jackson is attending Ituti and Ishisitswe (not sure how to spell that one! but that is how I say it.) where Pastor Stanley and then Pastor Raphael taught these materials. We are greatly rejoicing with the pastors who now have a resource that has such depth that they can continually teach through this and offer their congregations another solid teaching of the Word. 
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Sharon goes to hospital
FRANK WRITES: Yesterday, I accompanied Sharon and her guardian, Mary Salasia to the Kakamega General Hospital where she underwent x-ray, ultra sound and malaria tests. Sharon has been complaining of chest pains every now and then with excruciating pain that has made her school attendance erratic. The doctors examined her, gave her medication and scheduled another appointment should the attacks kick in again to enable them analyze the case further. She was also found to have the malaria parasites and was treated for malaria too.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Tiny taste of my recent trip-- I will have larger photos from Kevin later
oh my goodness these came out so small! This is Gladys.
Here is Cynthia.
Sharon and me.
I am with Abednego here.
I've got Vivian on the left and Lillian on the right and they both need sponsor renewal or new sponsors. They are precious girls! Then Gladys is on my left and Fridah on my right.Pastors getting Bible teaching materials
Special thanks to Dan Lovaglia, Teaching and Content Director at Willow Creek Community Church for giving Bible resources to the Pastors of Cornerstone Ministries in Western Kenya. Our Orphan Team Lead, Jack, reviewed the materials with several pastors across three hours. Many pastors traveled long distances to access these materials for their congregations after serving in their churches that Sunday morning. Praise God for these Bible overview materials that have 12 flashcards telling God's Story through His Word. It is a broad overview entitled, "Long Story Short" and begins with Genesis and going through the Old Testament showing God's redemptive plan through easy to draw pictures culminating in the promised Savior and the birth of a new people, His Church, who are one in purpose and move out to tell the world of this great plan of salvation through Christ and a relationship with our Mighty God who saves. WE ARE SO THANKFUL TO GOD!!! And so thankful for this system of teaching God's Word that is so deep yet so simple that even those without education can recieve LIGHT! The pictures are easy to draw and easy to memorize and easy to understand. We rejoice in the Love of God bringing understanding and revelation to His Beloved around the world! Our TGD Kenya team photographer, David, will be with Jack at the Ituti village church when the pastor presents to his flock. We'll have photos to show how the Good News is spreading to the poor! Hallelujah! Friday, October 07, 2011
Program of school visitation; sponsored children with their teachers
Lastly, we have Ben and Yvonne. Yvonne is a little ball of sunshine. I am pleased even to see Ben smiling here! Ben is quite shy and a very gentle young man. He is doing well in school, though. Yvonne is new to the program and she has AIDS but is responding well to medication. We will put her on a wholesome diet and continue to give her love and support. Praise God for sending her a sponsor! and God bless Ben's sponsor as well. We give Glory to God for His tenderness and love to our Kenyan family.
Thursday, October 06, 2011
yes, amazing pictures are coming
Kevin took his cool camera and took pictures of the children, the staff/students, and the safari. We saw LIONS! It was overwhelming and cool. There they were, giant cats, snoozing just so close to us. And even a hyena in the trail--we were going up a steep hill and the mist was obscuring our vision but as we approached, we could just make him out there--and Kevin managed to pop his head out of the sunroof and get a photo. We had no idea what we would see except we were pretty certain we would get the baboons and zebra. Then there were also giraffes, ostrich, rhino, oh so many animals! and we were RIGHT THERE in their home. No zoo for these guys. It was a testiment to the Lord. All Glory to Him who created us!
It was so good to see the children, too. I greeted each one. I changed their food to healthier options. we aren't going to be giving sodas during distribution day and we are choosing breads with whole grains. Everyone got a toothbrush and Dr. Powell's office, here in Barrington IL also gave toothpaste. We had enough toothbrushes for all the preschool, all the orphans, AND the staff and students plus some left over. For $40, I purchased 2 boxes of 144 temporary toothbrushes with instant toothpaste on them. Toothbrushes should be changed every 3 months (or less!) and so anyone who wants to donate for toothbrushes on any future trip--please do! We have SO MANY people in need--and it is just a great blessing!
I can't remember all that we did even though I am freshly returned. I really did try to document more though. I promise you, I am NOT thrilled to be in these photos. Even harder is sort of shouting from the rooftop about the things you are doing. So it is a battle, but I want to fight for the well being of my Kenyan friends and family. I am overjoyed to be their advocate. I praise GOD that He allows me to work for others and serve others. This work that you share with me brings praises to God. Those who receive are SO THANKFUL!!!
As I met with each of the students who have been promoted to working in the orphan program, there was so much gratitude. It was the kind that swells in your heart and spills over--even some were at a loss for words. But I could see it and it was a great blessing to know these students have been blessed by the Lord. One student, Don, has been living very well in his village because everyone now knows to call on him if they have a computer problem. He finds he can fix most things and can install software for people and trouble shoot and more---so he is called upon and makes money now. It is something he could have never done without the TGD training! Another student, Derrick, has so little money and works his garden as a farmer in the early morning before coming to programming classes. He has a wife and two children, one just born three months ago. When LifeStraw came to his area, he was given a job because he was the only one in his village area who could use a computer (and he can do it well!) Plus one of our students, Agnes from Pastor Steve's church, has dropped her classes because she has gotten a job as a secretary due to her fine computer skills! Plus, another student, Ruth, now works for a member of parliament! PRAISE GOD!
We will be working on bringing you a photo and an expanded story of the above. This is one of my 10,000 life long dreams come true! (That's my phrase borrowed from Daggit of Angry Beavers---he also had 10,000 lifelong dreams in one day.) All glory to Jesus for how He lifts us up and how He rewards work! These students are reaping the rewards of their hard work---amen!
It was so good to see the children, too. I greeted each one. I changed their food to healthier options. we aren't going to be giving sodas during distribution day and we are choosing breads with whole grains. Everyone got a toothbrush and Dr. Powell's office, here in Barrington IL also gave toothpaste. We had enough toothbrushes for all the preschool, all the orphans, AND the staff and students plus some left over. For $40, I purchased 2 boxes of 144 temporary toothbrushes with instant toothpaste on them. Toothbrushes should be changed every 3 months (or less!) and so anyone who wants to donate for toothbrushes on any future trip--please do! We have SO MANY people in need--and it is just a great blessing!
I can't remember all that we did even though I am freshly returned. I really did try to document more though. I promise you, I am NOT thrilled to be in these photos. Even harder is sort of shouting from the rooftop about the things you are doing. So it is a battle, but I want to fight for the well being of my Kenyan friends and family. I am overjoyed to be their advocate. I praise GOD that He allows me to work for others and serve others. This work that you share with me brings praises to God. Those who receive are SO THANKFUL!!!
As I met with each of the students who have been promoted to working in the orphan program, there was so much gratitude. It was the kind that swells in your heart and spills over--even some were at a loss for words. But I could see it and it was a great blessing to know these students have been blessed by the Lord. One student, Don, has been living very well in his village because everyone now knows to call on him if they have a computer problem. He finds he can fix most things and can install software for people and trouble shoot and more---so he is called upon and makes money now. It is something he could have never done without the TGD training! Another student, Derrick, has so little money and works his garden as a farmer in the early morning before coming to programming classes. He has a wife and two children, one just born three months ago. When LifeStraw came to his area, he was given a job because he was the only one in his village area who could use a computer (and he can do it well!) Plus one of our students, Agnes from Pastor Steve's church, has dropped her classes because she has gotten a job as a secretary due to her fine computer skills! Plus, another student, Ruth, now works for a member of parliament! PRAISE GOD!
We will be working on bringing you a photo and an expanded story of the above. This is one of my 10,000 life long dreams come true! (That's my phrase borrowed from Daggit of Angry Beavers---he also had 10,000 lifelong dreams in one day.) All glory to Jesus for how He lifts us up and how He rewards work! These students are reaping the rewards of their hard work---amen!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Had a full day Friday
Morning we greeted students- Kevin taught about various programming languages. Then read storybooks to preschool and passed out toothbrushes. One child was gashed on his knee, i bumbled to clean and tape it shut. He needed stitches but I waited for the parent. We got permission to take him to the doctor. Then I had 1x1 with Senior and Junior Staff. Then dinner with Titus and Rose.
Stephanie Rivers
Trinity Global Development
100% of your donation goes to
Kenya! www.TGDonline.com
www.TexasRivers.Blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Arrived
I am in Kenya at long last. The flights were amazing. I had a three row to myself and the other flight had a seat between me and a very quiet woman. I slept three times on each flight! We had a hotel room instead of waiting through a 12 hr layover.
When I was getting my luggage, a man came up asking to see inside a bag. He questioned me, " what do you have inside- show me, Do you have drugs in that suitcase? " i explained it was only books. He had no badge so I asked him to show me one. He stalled but I insisted. Oops-- he did have one, so I opened my case. No drugs.
Well, that threw me off and I grabbed my other one and headed out. I remembered to get the two bags with items for our community--- and forgot my personal case with underwear and clothing! Eeek!!
I didnt realize it until I was in my hotel room ( which has a blow dryer and a fan -- woohoo!) and poor Frank was dispatched to retrieve it for me. What a stupid mistake. And he hasn't slept like I have!! I sure appreciate him. He just texted me to say, "Got it!" big sigh of relief. At least I remembered to lock that one!
Stephanie Rivers
Trinity Global Development
100% of your donation goes to
Kenya! http://www.tgdonline.com/
http://www.texasrivers.blogspot.com/
When I was getting my luggage, a man came up asking to see inside a bag. He questioned me, " what do you have inside- show me, Do you have drugs in that suitcase? " i explained it was only books. He had no badge so I asked him to show me one. He stalled but I insisted. Oops-- he did have one, so I opened my case. No drugs.
Well, that threw me off and I grabbed my other one and headed out. I remembered to get the two bags with items for our community--- and forgot my personal case with underwear and clothing! Eeek!!
I didnt realize it until I was in my hotel room ( which has a blow dryer and a fan -- woohoo!) and poor Frank was dispatched to retrieve it for me. What a stupid mistake. And he hasn't slept like I have!! I sure appreciate him. He just texted me to say, "Got it!" big sigh of relief. At least I remembered to lock that one!
Stephanie Rivers
Trinity Global Development
100% of your donation goes to
Kenya! http://www.tgdonline.com/
http://www.texasrivers.blogspot.com/
Monday, September 26, 2011
Praying
Pray with me:
Lord, i come before you through the blood of Jesus. Thank You for Your cleansing blood. Thank You for Your Holy Name! Blessed be the name of the Lord! Lead us by the Holy Spirit. Illuminate Your Word. Let there be Light!
I ask that Your Will be done on this trip in Jesus name. I pray I have Kingdom eyes and a heart of Gods Love. Help us dwell in unity and adore You! Help us glorify Your Name!
Provide for Your children Lord. Prosper Your people. Let shouts of Joy and Victory resound in the hearts of the Righteous of the Lord. Nurture the bruised reed, guard the smoldering wick that it may fan into a flame of fire burning for You. Show Yourself Mighty!
Grant us repentance!
Reveal our sin that we may turn from it by dependence on Your Saving Power and righteousness. We believe the Good News! We receive Your Righteousness! Forgive our unbelief! Increase our faith!
We forgive those who have hurt us, insulted us, slighted us, ignored us, accused us of anything, misjudged us, misunderstood us, cut in front of us, scared us, irritated us, disappointed us, frustrated us, refused to change, done it again and those who have engaged in wrongful behavior. We bless them all and ask You to have mercy on us all- for we have likewise done these things. You have given us power to forgive and overcome evil with good. Strengthen us by Your spirit in our inner man so Christ dwells in our hearts through faith. Establish us in LOVE, knowing JESUS who LOVES us and likewise loving others.
Guard us in our weakness. Help us flee the things we see and want ( lust of eyes,) favorite foods/comfort/excitement (lust of the flesh) and wanting people to approve even admire us ( pride of life 1John2:6.) lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Awake our soul to YOU that we may flee sin.
You are the center of all existence. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. You will come on Your white horse with Your robe dipped in blood ( Rev 19) and You will tread the winepress of the fierce wrath of God! Come Lord Jesus! You will gather Your Beloved and make all things new. Hallelujah! We rejoice in our God!
May we walk in trust, Lord. Sanctify us in Your Truth. Work in our hearts that we bear fruit for You.
We thank You for travel mercies. Lord, bring comfort and endurance to our flesh on the long flights. Guard us from mischief and mayhem on the roads and among the peoples. Bring supernatural appontments-- and obedience at every turn. It is a blessing of joy to be in the service of the Lord and to be about Your business. Guard attitudes and let words be annointed, dripping with dew.
We bless You, We Praise You! We ask these things in Jesus name, Amen.
Lord, i come before you through the blood of Jesus. Thank You for Your cleansing blood. Thank You for Your Holy Name! Blessed be the name of the Lord! Lead us by the Holy Spirit. Illuminate Your Word. Let there be Light!
I ask that Your Will be done on this trip in Jesus name. I pray I have Kingdom eyes and a heart of Gods Love. Help us dwell in unity and adore You! Help us glorify Your Name!
Provide for Your children Lord. Prosper Your people. Let shouts of Joy and Victory resound in the hearts of the Righteous of the Lord. Nurture the bruised reed, guard the smoldering wick that it may fan into a flame of fire burning for You. Show Yourself Mighty!
Grant us repentance!
Reveal our sin that we may turn from it by dependence on Your Saving Power and righteousness. We believe the Good News! We receive Your Righteousness! Forgive our unbelief! Increase our faith!
We forgive those who have hurt us, insulted us, slighted us, ignored us, accused us of anything, misjudged us, misunderstood us, cut in front of us, scared us, irritated us, disappointed us, frustrated us, refused to change, done it again and those who have engaged in wrongful behavior. We bless them all and ask You to have mercy on us all- for we have likewise done these things. You have given us power to forgive and overcome evil with good. Strengthen us by Your spirit in our inner man so Christ dwells in our hearts through faith. Establish us in LOVE, knowing JESUS who LOVES us and likewise loving others.
Guard us in our weakness. Help us flee the things we see and want ( lust of eyes,) favorite foods/comfort/excitement (lust of the flesh) and wanting people to approve even admire us ( pride of life 1John2:6.) lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Awake our soul to YOU that we may flee sin.
You are the center of all existence. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. You will come on Your white horse with Your robe dipped in blood ( Rev 19) and You will tread the winepress of the fierce wrath of God! Come Lord Jesus! You will gather Your Beloved and make all things new. Hallelujah! We rejoice in our God!
May we walk in trust, Lord. Sanctify us in Your Truth. Work in our hearts that we bear fruit for You.
We thank You for travel mercies. Lord, bring comfort and endurance to our flesh on the long flights. Guard us from mischief and mayhem on the roads and among the peoples. Bring supernatural appontments-- and obedience at every turn. It is a blessing of joy to be in the service of the Lord and to be about Your business. Guard attitudes and let words be annointed, dripping with dew.
We bless You, We Praise You! We ask these things in Jesus name, Amen.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Beautiful WELL! Bumamu Has a WELL!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Julien in Germany
Thursday, September 08, 2011
New Computer Students
These computer students are in the community and paying a very small fee in order to cover the costs of printing and such. Here is a report from Oscar, one of the students-turned-instructor, a very gifted programming student:
The community training program continues and there have been a number of activities that have taken effect in the last few couple of days and it is important to bring to your concern. The teachers are committed to encourage learners to gain intellect in spiritual and moral well-being as it is the only way to get exceptional achievement in any learning institution. We keep reading scriptures to them and instill the fact that God is all powerful and Has got good plans for us to prosper.
Teachers sat down together and saw it vital for the students to have an exam so as to be rest assured of how capable is each one of them as far as the areas covered is concerned. We then came up with questions and printed them out. I was encouraged because the students received the news about the exam with awe and stated that this will also make them be sure of how best they understand computer applications they have covered.
On 7th of this month was the exam day. We gave them at around 2:00 PM in the afternoon. In one and a half hours time, they were through and we immediately started marking the papers. The following are the results; Patrick – 70%, Bonface – 50%, John – 28% and Corazone – 62%. Patrick and Bonface scored low marks because they joined us late when other areas were already covered. They have promised to work an extra mile to make sure that they also stand a good chance of attaining higher marks. This is absolutely good. Yesterday and today has been revision all through. We pray that God opens up their minds to absorb this important knowledge that is brought to them.
We are trying as much as possible to create awareness concerning the community computer training that is already on the ground. This is so because people perish due to lack of information on knowledge. Indeed, we appreciate the gift of love that God manifests in us so that we are able to create healthy relationships with the community and the world at large. Praise be to the Lord.
The community training program continues and there have been a number of activities that have taken effect in the last few couple of days and it is important to bring to your concern. The teachers are committed to encourage learners to gain intellect in spiritual and moral well-being as it is the only way to get exceptional achievement in any learning institution. We keep reading scriptures to them and instill the fact that God is all powerful and Has got good plans for us to prosper.
Teachers sat down together and saw it vital for the students to have an exam so as to be rest assured of how capable is each one of them as far as the areas covered is concerned. We then came up with questions and printed them out. I was encouraged because the students received the news about the exam with awe and stated that this will also make them be sure of how best they understand computer applications they have covered.
On 7th of this month was the exam day. We gave them at around 2:00 PM in the afternoon. In one and a half hours time, they were through and we immediately started marking the papers. The following are the results; Patrick – 70%, Bonface – 50%, John – 28% and Corazone – 62%. Patrick and Bonface scored low marks because they joined us late when other areas were already covered. They have promised to work an extra mile to make sure that they also stand a good chance of attaining higher marks. This is absolutely good. Yesterday and today has been revision all through. We pray that God opens up their minds to absorb this important knowledge that is brought to them.
We are trying as much as possible to create awareness concerning the community computer training that is already on the ground. This is so because people perish due to lack of information on knowledge. Indeed, we appreciate the gift of love that God manifests in us so that we are able to create healthy relationships with the community and the world at large. Praise be to the Lord.
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
For unto us a cow is born, unto us a calf is given! Wonderful!
Joseph got the report about the delivering of the cow that belongs to Sharon Mukoya. He requested Jackson and i to dash there and take the pictures of the cow with its new born calf. It is joy to see the cow at last with the calf, we are now counting two instead of one. I think the Lord is blessing the area through TGD because the cow seems to be a breed that produces a lot of milk. When we arrived at Shianda where sharon stays, we only managed to find her together with some children. The guardian had just left the house few minutes ago before our entry. Sharon was happy from the way she expressed her statements to us. On Saturday we had been at the site where the cow is being taken care of and therefore we confidently walked there accompanied by Sharon herself. The cow was eating nappier grass and it seemed to be in a perfect condition in terms of health. It is a beautiful cow that denotes a great blessing to the society at large. When I looked at the calf I was amazed to see that it was so big and yet it is only two days old. The cow is still producing colostrum and therefore the calf is under control so that it should not over suckle the colostrum from the mother. Thanks to SERVANTS OF JESUS for such a great gift.
I my own view this is very encouraging to see such great blessings come to the society. We have hope that there is a better tomorrow. The headlights are now shinning brighter and hope is now blossoming. If God can do this it is just an indication that he can do more and more than we can imagine. The myriads of activities that God is fulfilling under TGDs Umbrella are now growing. As we count the increase in orphans that are being sponsored through TDG, we also count our blessings such as this of the cow.
Blessings, Lawrence.
Saturday, September 03, 2011
Heidi Baker newsletter
Here is a quote from the newsletter of Heidi Baker and her husband:
https://www.irismin.org/news/newsletters/view/core-values-at-iris#jump-losing-one-airplane-gaining-a-better-one
4) We understand the value of suffering in the Christian life. Learning to love requires willingness to suffer for the sake of righteousness. Discipline and testing make saints out of us, and produce in us the holiness without which we will not see His face and share His glory. With Paul we rejoice in our weaknesses, for when we are weak we are strong. Under great pressure we learn to rely on God, who raises the dead (2 Cor. 1:9).
Jesus was rewarded for enduring evil opposition without sin. Our reward in heaven will be for the same -- doing the will of God. We resist sin, to the point of shedding blood, if necessary, by considering His example (Heb. 12:3). Jesus is glorified now not because He exerted His power against His enemies, but because He overcame them with love. That kind of love entails suffering, the willingness to turn the other cheek, go the second mile, deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Him. He showed us the only way to be counted worthy, and the angels sing of him, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing" (Rev. 5:12). There is no shortcut to our heavenly inheritance. "Now if we are children, then we are heirs -- heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory" (Rom. 8:17).
https://www.irismin.org/news/newsletters/view/core-values-at-iris#jump-losing-one-airplane-gaining-a-better-one
4) We understand the value of suffering in the Christian life. Learning to love requires willingness to suffer for the sake of righteousness. Discipline and testing make saints out of us, and produce in us the holiness without which we will not see His face and share His glory. With Paul we rejoice in our weaknesses, for when we are weak we are strong. Under great pressure we learn to rely on God, who raises the dead (2 Cor. 1:9).
Jesus was rewarded for enduring evil opposition without sin. Our reward in heaven will be for the same -- doing the will of God. We resist sin, to the point of shedding blood, if necessary, by considering His example (Heb. 12:3). Jesus is glorified now not because He exerted His power against His enemies, but because He overcame them with love. That kind of love entails suffering, the willingness to turn the other cheek, go the second mile, deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Him. He showed us the only way to be counted worthy, and the angels sing of him, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing" (Rev. 5:12). There is no shortcut to our heavenly inheritance. "Now if we are children, then we are heirs -- heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory" (Rom. 8:17).
Friday, September 02, 2011
Email from Jackson
Hi Stephanie,
Today the junior staff spent the day packing the items ahead of tomorrow’s’ visit. The distribution of this month is very significant to these needy children. The price of essential commodities continues to rise and many families have been going without some. I know they have been waiting eagerly for this day and God is visiting them tomorrow. There is a great meaning in this ministry of feeding the hungry. I can’t imagine how they could have coped with the current food crisis if there was no help, but God renews hope to the hopeless.
We present tomorrow to our almighty God. Trinity Global development belongs to Him and what He has started will definitely accomplish His purpose no matter the obstacles. He has called us by our names to serve Him. Let His will be done.
God bless you abundantly,
Jackson.
Today the junior staff spent the day packing the items ahead of tomorrow’s’ visit. The distribution of this month is very significant to these needy children. The price of essential commodities continues to rise and many families have been going without some. I know they have been waiting eagerly for this day and God is visiting them tomorrow. There is a great meaning in this ministry of feeding the hungry. I can’t imagine how they could have coped with the current food crisis if there was no help, but God renews hope to the hopeless.
We present tomorrow to our almighty God. Trinity Global development belongs to Him and what He has started will definitely accomplish His purpose no matter the obstacles. He has called us by our names to serve Him. Let His will be done.
God bless you abundantly,
Jackson.
Brenda and her mother
Brenda and Shaline---that is a precious countenance on Shaline!!! 
TGD Kenya new staff behind four new students
These are actually PAYING students! That helps with materials they use and need.
Jackson, newly working as the team lead over orphans under Frank's supervision along with Lawrence at his side. Here he is with Zanaibu and her guardian.September Newsletter Posted!
Please check out http://www.tgdonline.com/ and see the new orphan profiles!! PLUS the September Newsletter is also posted.
I am so thankful for the TGD Kenya staff, specifically Joseph Omuto and anyone who helped him! Thank you to Jesus that we now are getting the website updated!
check it out!
I am so thankful for the TGD Kenya staff, specifically Joseph Omuto and anyone who helped him! Thank you to Jesus that we now are getting the website updated!
check it out!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Coming Soon--More pictures
Thank you so much for reading the blog here. I am grateful for those who check in and live this precious life with me and/or for the Lord.....or even for curiousity. A special thanks to those who honor the friends and the children who benefit from the donations in Kenya. God bless all of you. I pray He reveal Himself to You and give the the Joy of Giving and the unity of our humanity on this temporal world.
Friday, August 12, 2011
The Love of Human Praise as the Root of Unbelief
This is the second one----listen to the other sermon (of the same name) FIRST
The Love of Human Praise as the Root of Unbelief
Tuesday, August 09, 2011
Mobile Library begins for orphans and their schools
Your sponsorship purchased these books and learning aids! They will be circulated amongst the sponsored children AND their schools---which are sorely lacking in any addition reading materials. Now the children are learning that the blessing coming to them can spread to others as well. Let God be their glory and the lifter of their head. Let Him crown them with honor and life.
Benjamin
Our apprentice leaders doing an excellent job! Duncan, Jackson, and Lawrence. We commend them to you and ask for your prayers for their health, determination, creativity and perseverence, in Jesus' name.
Shaline
Noel
Benjamin
Our apprentice leaders doing an excellent job! Duncan, Jackson, and Lawrence. We commend them to you and ask for your prayers for their health, determination, creativity and perseverence, in Jesus' name.
Shaline
NoelSaturday, August 06, 2011
Thursday, August 04, 2011
Letter from Jackson, our new leader
Jackson leads with Frank's guidance. I wanted to share the letter I received this morning regarding Grace and Everlyn. Note that they would like storybooks. I can suggest some solid type of reading of a classic sort if you would like to send them or any of the other children some books.
Lawrence and I visited two orphans on Sunday. That is Everline and Grace. We really wanted to worship together with them but unfortunately they normally complete children Sunday service just at 9.00am. The service is conducted in their house by their uncle who is a preacher of the Anglican Church. On that day, the uncle was on a mission in the neighboring town.
We rushed to a nearby church, Word Center, where we had our Sunday service and promised to see Everline and Grace after the service. We really wish that these kids grow to fear the lord, that their spiritual life is nourished. We pray that they will live to be a great testimony in the kingdom of God.
After the service, we went back to Owaga’s home where Everline and Grace live. We were warmly welcome by their guardian. She could not hide her joy. It is a holiday season and almost all the children are at home. Our main aim of the visit was to know the general progress of these orphans. We inquired about their education, health, discipline and their hobbies if any.
These girls are really working hard at school. Their performance is remarkably good. We did not have a chance to look at their recent school report books because when they were closing the school, their guardian was not at the venue to pick their report books. She promised to go for them the following day. The health of these children is good. The guardian said that their health is very stable due to monthly distribution where these kids are supplied with food and clothes. Jackets have played a big role especially during this rainy season. These girls have at least a number of clothes and they now look presentable. The guardian hasn’t received any reports of indiscipline from the school and she pointed out that they are very obedient and she corrects them whenever they go wrong.
These children do love to study. Their guardian identified this as their hobby. Though they have insufficient school material such as books especially story books. We really insisted on education. Education progress of these children means a lot, not only to them but to the society as a whole. This is the gospel that we shall continue to preach to guardians. We need these children to excel in education. We had a great time with this family and chatted on many issues with the uncle who likes speaking about politics and current affairs. After the talk, we said goodbye to the family. Everline and Grace accompanied us to the nearest market where we bought some lollipops for them. They promised to share with the other kids. They were very excited.
As we boarded the vehicle back to our destination, they remained waving in the air unceasingly bidding us goodbye.
We intend to pay frequent visits to our children especially during this August holiday. There are challenges but we pray God will take us through.
God bless you and let us thank Him for showing us the true meaning of this life.
Yours in Christ Jesus,
Jackson Nerrickson.
Lawrence and I visited two orphans on Sunday. That is Everline and Grace. We really wanted to worship together with them but unfortunately they normally complete children Sunday service just at 9.00am. The service is conducted in their house by their uncle who is a preacher of the Anglican Church. On that day, the uncle was on a mission in the neighboring town.
We rushed to a nearby church, Word Center, where we had our Sunday service and promised to see Everline and Grace after the service. We really wish that these kids grow to fear the lord, that their spiritual life is nourished. We pray that they will live to be a great testimony in the kingdom of God.
After the service, we went back to Owaga’s home where Everline and Grace live. We were warmly welcome by their guardian. She could not hide her joy. It is a holiday season and almost all the children are at home. Our main aim of the visit was to know the general progress of these orphans. We inquired about their education, health, discipline and their hobbies if any.
These girls are really working hard at school. Their performance is remarkably good. We did not have a chance to look at their recent school report books because when they were closing the school, their guardian was not at the venue to pick their report books. She promised to go for them the following day. The health of these children is good. The guardian said that their health is very stable due to monthly distribution where these kids are supplied with food and clothes. Jackets have played a big role especially during this rainy season. These girls have at least a number of clothes and they now look presentable. The guardian hasn’t received any reports of indiscipline from the school and she pointed out that they are very obedient and she corrects them whenever they go wrong.
These children do love to study. Their guardian identified this as their hobby. Though they have insufficient school material such as books especially story books. We really insisted on education. Education progress of these children means a lot, not only to them but to the society as a whole. This is the gospel that we shall continue to preach to guardians. We need these children to excel in education. We had a great time with this family and chatted on many issues with the uncle who likes speaking about politics and current affairs. After the talk, we said goodbye to the family. Everline and Grace accompanied us to the nearest market where we bought some lollipops for them. They promised to share with the other kids. They were very excited.
As we boarded the vehicle back to our destination, they remained waving in the air unceasingly bidding us goodbye.
We intend to pay frequent visits to our children especially during this August holiday. There are challenges but we pray God will take us through.
God bless you and let us thank Him for showing us the true meaning of this life.
Yours in Christ Jesus,
Jackson Nerrickson.
Wednesday, August 03, 2011
just got home
Not much time to sort things out yet, but it was so good to have Sarah and Nicole pick us up at the airport! And Nicole's little belly is growing with Raynor inside. I took a look online hoping to find some midwives in the Jackson, MS area, but to no avail. Well, I did find SOME things, but it was terribly hard to really get information. I don't think there are just stand alone birthing clinics there as there used to be. I went to midwives when I was pregnant with Kevin and I know Cindy delivered Doug somewhere about 30 minutes out of Jackson--did she say Meridian? There may be a birthing center there.
and there is no birthing at home in Illinois, either, because Anita is a Doula who would love to be a midwife. I'd love for her to be with Nicole, she is so matter of fact. of COURSE you can do this! Push that baby out! :-)
My puppies were glad to see us. They both went right to Steve and Penelope peed all over the place. She still does that sometimes as a submissive greeting pee. Yuck. She managed to spray Steve's shoe. Oliver did his special dance. I showed Sarah and Nicole some things I brought for them. I am not a big shopper so they are blessed to get anything! I bought something for Laura, Mom, and Kevin, too. Steve bought himself some new large collar dress shirts. I got myself a purse. We ate a lot of food. Meat, potatoes, cheese, wine. Steve had beer. I had milk. It's good to be home, as always. We have some house guests who came before I got home so that will be interesting when we run into them. They are here in Chicago for the Jesus Culture meeting at the Allstate center by the airport. I'm sure it is awesome and I'd love to be there but there is only so much running about that a wimpy soul can take.
I really pushed to make the trip to London include deeply spirtual aspects but I do think it pulled me down into the flesh in plenty of ways. So much human viewing, so much judging. At first, I was praying. If I saw anything untoward, I said a prayer. I blessed passersby. In the end, I was thinking things like, Oh I like that dress. Look at her hair. I'd like a purse like that. Oh she is so beautiful. Oh goodness they are an ugly couple. what were they thinking when they went out in THAT? I don't know. I think so many people ---just SO MANY PEOPLE sort of wore me down.
but in the quiet of St. Elizabeth's chapel, I spent a beautiful hour praying. It's just outside of Westminster Abbey. The tour through there is so disappointing as it is more of a shrine to man. Obviously, we all want to be praised and remembered. God deliver us from desiring praise from Man and let us work for your praise. I know when I left out of there, my prayerfulness was restored and I felt cleansed by the work of Christ on the cross and I know He makes peace for me. God's wrath, His justifiable wrath against me is removed as I look upon Jesus in love and faith. and I'm so thankful for the silence in there.
I wanted to go through Westminster, though, to this place on the inside where the cloisters were. There is a garden and I thought I could access it without going through the tour, but I could not. They had another little museum in there, something like what the clerics wore through the years maybe--I can't remember now, but I remembered my delight from the past. I had hoped to sit outside in that courtyard and just be silent before God (yes, I always find that hard unless I'm really blitzed mentally. then I am mostly unable to pray which is quite different from silence before the Lord.)
but I loved the history of Christians, even though it is torrid and we're horrible people and the faithful fall even as bad as the weeds/goats that grow up among us. It shouldn't be like that.
on the way home, in the plane, the girl sitting next to me was horridly annoying. She dominated the arm rest and continually spilled over into my space. I prayed a thousand times for grace. Shifted myself away suddenly as a subtle hint which she never seemed to care about. I thought about what would I seem like if I TRULY loved God and was able to really access His Love for me and allow His grace to generate love for her. what would that be like?
well, I likely wouldn't be reading the Economist and Marie Claire. I mean, can you see Mother Theresa or a Tibetan monk reading a fashion magazine? No. Does that mean I shouldn't? unsure. Diana was a precious soul and she read fashion magazines---not that I use her as an excuse. I know JESUS did not read fashion magazines because they didn't have them.
but I do know that he had a form such that you would not desire him. so he wasn't charasmatic or a dandy or slick.
I just know I don't EXUDE Jesus. I think about Him all the time. I love Him most of the time (the other time I'm not thinking of Him, that's all.) I eagerly await the grace to be given me when He appears. I appropriate the grace for living TODAY.
I just wish I were more.
you know. I want to be the perfect Christian. Probably just to get the praise of man, which is sin. so let's not go there. I want to glorify GOD!
Even as I set about to serve Him in one way or another, I was thwarted. So then I realized--hey, I obeyed, right? I think it is this American Thing about PURPOSE. We want to be efficient and have PURPOSE.
So I laid it down and said, okay, so I made the effort because of what I thought you wanted and it didn't happen and that's okay, right? because it is between You and me. and then what happened??? The follow through. I DID get to do that thing (unmentionable here--but you have this experience, too, so just fill it in with your attempts to serve Him in Love.)
and then I was happy all over. Take it in because it is fleeting! Happy all over. Thank you, Jesus. I run in the path of your commands for You have set my heart free (is that in Psalm 119?) That's how I feel.When you love someone, doing something for them is so delightfully easy. When you don't love someone, it feels like slavery and so burdensome. Same with God. Loving Him makes everything easy!
(even tolerating someone taking up your personal space repeatedly for over 8 hours.)
well, maybe I didn't make it on that one. I'm still sort of miffed.
Forgive me, Lord, and cleanse me with your blood. Your precious blood that saved me --I died with you on that cross. and You raise me up. Hallelujah!
and there is no birthing at home in Illinois, either, because Anita is a Doula who would love to be a midwife. I'd love for her to be with Nicole, she is so matter of fact. of COURSE you can do this! Push that baby out! :-)
My puppies were glad to see us. They both went right to Steve and Penelope peed all over the place. She still does that sometimes as a submissive greeting pee. Yuck. She managed to spray Steve's shoe. Oliver did his special dance. I showed Sarah and Nicole some things I brought for them. I am not a big shopper so they are blessed to get anything! I bought something for Laura, Mom, and Kevin, too. Steve bought himself some new large collar dress shirts. I got myself a purse. We ate a lot of food. Meat, potatoes, cheese, wine. Steve had beer. I had milk. It's good to be home, as always. We have some house guests who came before I got home so that will be interesting when we run into them. They are here in Chicago for the Jesus Culture meeting at the Allstate center by the airport. I'm sure it is awesome and I'd love to be there but there is only so much running about that a wimpy soul can take.
I really pushed to make the trip to London include deeply spirtual aspects but I do think it pulled me down into the flesh in plenty of ways. So much human viewing, so much judging. At first, I was praying. If I saw anything untoward, I said a prayer. I blessed passersby. In the end, I was thinking things like, Oh I like that dress. Look at her hair. I'd like a purse like that. Oh she is so beautiful. Oh goodness they are an ugly couple. what were they thinking when they went out in THAT? I don't know. I think so many people ---just SO MANY PEOPLE sort of wore me down.
but in the quiet of St. Elizabeth's chapel, I spent a beautiful hour praying. It's just outside of Westminster Abbey. The tour through there is so disappointing as it is more of a shrine to man. Obviously, we all want to be praised and remembered. God deliver us from desiring praise from Man and let us work for your praise. I know when I left out of there, my prayerfulness was restored and I felt cleansed by the work of Christ on the cross and I know He makes peace for me. God's wrath, His justifiable wrath against me is removed as I look upon Jesus in love and faith. and I'm so thankful for the silence in there.
I wanted to go through Westminster, though, to this place on the inside where the cloisters were. There is a garden and I thought I could access it without going through the tour, but I could not. They had another little museum in there, something like what the clerics wore through the years maybe--I can't remember now, but I remembered my delight from the past. I had hoped to sit outside in that courtyard and just be silent before God (yes, I always find that hard unless I'm really blitzed mentally. then I am mostly unable to pray which is quite different from silence before the Lord.)
but I loved the history of Christians, even though it is torrid and we're horrible people and the faithful fall even as bad as the weeds/goats that grow up among us. It shouldn't be like that.
on the way home, in the plane, the girl sitting next to me was horridly annoying. She dominated the arm rest and continually spilled over into my space. I prayed a thousand times for grace. Shifted myself away suddenly as a subtle hint which she never seemed to care about. I thought about what would I seem like if I TRULY loved God and was able to really access His Love for me and allow His grace to generate love for her. what would that be like?
well, I likely wouldn't be reading the Economist and Marie Claire. I mean, can you see Mother Theresa or a Tibetan monk reading a fashion magazine? No. Does that mean I shouldn't? unsure. Diana was a precious soul and she read fashion magazines---not that I use her as an excuse. I know JESUS did not read fashion magazines because they didn't have them.
but I do know that he had a form such that you would not desire him. so he wasn't charasmatic or a dandy or slick.
I just know I don't EXUDE Jesus. I think about Him all the time. I love Him most of the time (the other time I'm not thinking of Him, that's all.) I eagerly await the grace to be given me when He appears. I appropriate the grace for living TODAY.
I just wish I were more.
you know. I want to be the perfect Christian. Probably just to get the praise of man, which is sin. so let's not go there. I want to glorify GOD!
Even as I set about to serve Him in one way or another, I was thwarted. So then I realized--hey, I obeyed, right? I think it is this American Thing about PURPOSE. We want to be efficient and have PURPOSE.
So I laid it down and said, okay, so I made the effort because of what I thought you wanted and it didn't happen and that's okay, right? because it is between You and me. and then what happened??? The follow through. I DID get to do that thing (unmentionable here--but you have this experience, too, so just fill it in with your attempts to serve Him in Love.)
and then I was happy all over. Take it in because it is fleeting! Happy all over. Thank you, Jesus. I run in the path of your commands for You have set my heart free (is that in Psalm 119?) That's how I feel.When you love someone, doing something for them is so delightfully easy. When you don't love someone, it feels like slavery and so burdensome. Same with God. Loving Him makes everything easy!
(even tolerating someone taking up your personal space repeatedly for over 8 hours.)
well, maybe I didn't make it on that one. I'm still sort of miffed.
Forgive me, Lord, and cleanse me with your blood. Your precious blood that saved me --I died with you on that cross. and You raise me up. Hallelujah!
Monday, August 01, 2011
Laura's wedding on Tribeza blog
http://tribeza.com/myblog/behind-scenes-caterer%E2%80%99s-view-wedding
It's all about the fabulous caterer, but if you click on the link where "Laura and Garson" are first mentioned, it takes you to their engagement photos by Forever Photography and you can scroll down to see them if you haven't seen them before.
It's all about the fabulous caterer, but if you click on the link where "Laura and Garson" are first mentioned, it takes you to their engagement photos by Forever Photography and you can scroll down to see them if you haven't seen them before.
Victoria and Albert Museum
Now i have so many things on my mind. I wrote Frank in Kenya and wrote Sarah/Brenda about precious Lily cat needs to have her final nap. I am in the room by myself while Steve does Very Important Things. and then I found that Susan had taken a fabulous photo of me and Steve kissing at Laura's wedding. (THANK YOU SUSAN!!) I saved it off to Steve's computer and loaded it up here. Happy Me!
Then, i've been hearing all these Londoner's speaking. Nicole has discovered the delicious cinnamon bear, but Sarah tells me they are so sticky on teeth that they've not eaten many of them.
Today was the Museum. We've gone to it before, but it is such an amazing place that you wear out before you can take it all in. We did the medieval area, of course. But we have just been to Germany and I've watched the movie "LUTHER" on my ipod, and then going to St. Martin's----I'm just full of Jesus in a ceremonious way. I long for the structure and beauty and form of worship where you sit and kneel and stand. where there are symbols and processionals. I learned just today that the reason the catholics have that censor of incense is to create an atmosphere of the tangible presence of God. Oh that's lovely.
His presence is ALWAYS with us. Read Psalm 139--you cannot flee from God! There is no place without Him! and then He is holding all things together. Now God is not the tree. God made the tree and He holds the tree together. He holds the universe together and He manifests Himself to us. Oh that the God who created a vast universe would pierce my consciousness and SPEAK! I love Him.
To see all these elaborate articles of worship and these beautiful tapestries that have been created by someone somewhere who treasured Christ. There were these beautiful panels which depicted parts of the book of Revelation. I stopped and marveled and noticed the audio headset there. I picked it up and got an interpretation of the scenes. There was also chants unto God, beautiful singing and the interpretation. I was transported. When I saw some works lovingly made --religious articles, true, but some of those artists LOVED HIM. And they glorified Him in their work and there I was standing looking at it and someday I may meet them and say, "I saw what you made and I worshipped God there."
There is so much more to say, but now that I've written that, everything else seems silly. Worthy is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
Then, i've been hearing all these Londoner's speaking. Nicole has discovered the delicious cinnamon bear, but Sarah tells me they are so sticky on teeth that they've not eaten many of them.
Today was the Museum. We've gone to it before, but it is such an amazing place that you wear out before you can take it all in. We did the medieval area, of course. But we have just been to Germany and I've watched the movie "LUTHER" on my ipod, and then going to St. Martin's----I'm just full of Jesus in a ceremonious way. I long for the structure and beauty and form of worship where you sit and kneel and stand. where there are symbols and processionals. I learned just today that the reason the catholics have that censor of incense is to create an atmosphere of the tangible presence of God. Oh that's lovely.
His presence is ALWAYS with us. Read Psalm 139--you cannot flee from God! There is no place without Him! and then He is holding all things together. Now God is not the tree. God made the tree and He holds the tree together. He holds the universe together and He manifests Himself to us. Oh that the God who created a vast universe would pierce my consciousness and SPEAK! I love Him.
To see all these elaborate articles of worship and these beautiful tapestries that have been created by someone somewhere who treasured Christ. There were these beautiful panels which depicted parts of the book of Revelation. I stopped and marveled and noticed the audio headset there. I picked it up and got an interpretation of the scenes. There was also chants unto God, beautiful singing and the interpretation. I was transported. When I saw some works lovingly made --religious articles, true, but some of those artists LOVED HIM. And they glorified Him in their work and there I was standing looking at it and someday I may meet them and say, "I saw what you made and I worshipped God there."
There is so much more to say, but now that I've written that, everything else seems silly. Worthy is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
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