Tuesday, April 10, 2007
A small (but welcomed) milestone for Flicka! LOL
This morning...the first morning...no overnight diaper...and no middle-of-the-night accidents! WA-HOO! I don't know who is more excited - me or her! LOL But, as a gymnastics coach told me once - Get it once, fine. Get it twice, coincidence. Get it a third time - you got it nailed! So, we'll see...*wink*
In Other Words
“Ancient Words, ever true
Changing me, changing you
We have come with open hearts
O let the ancient words impart”
(Joy in the Morning is sponsoring this week’s In Other Words. Go there to see others' interpretation of this quote.)
What’s more important than the Scripture? Not much! LOL But, it is significantly less effective if we skip that important part in the third line…an open heart! So, I went searching the Word for an open heart and found Lydia in Acts 16.
14 Now a certain woman named Lydia heard [us.] She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. 15 And when she and her household were baptized, she begged [us,] saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay." So she persuaded us.
I’ve been focusing on some of the godly women of the Bible and their attributes in my daily reading. So, when I sought out some more info on Lydia, I found an online article from In Touch Ministries. Lydia was Europe’s first Christian convert! She was a “worshipper of God” (v14) but God opened her heart and when she heard Paul and Silas testify that Jesus was the Messiah, she was immediately baptized along with all of her household.
Lydia likely was a Gentile widow or an unmarried woman who was a Jewish convert. She is considered to have been a wealthy businesswoman. And, it also attributes several godly women characteristics to her: (this is a direct quote but with my emphases)
Vigor: Lydia had no sooner accepted Christ as her Savior than she invited His emissaries into her home. "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord," Lydia told Paul, "come into my house and stay" (v. 15). The New American Standard Version states that Lydia "prevailed upon" Paul’s party to stay. This wasn’t a whimsical offer. This was the impassioned plea of a woman athirst for God. Instantly, the Lord used her to house His most important minister of the early church, which penetrated Europe more extensively because of her generosity.
Sacrifice. Lydia’s business possibly suffered somewhat because of her conversion. Consider that much of the dye business was fueled either by those purchasing purple garments for royalty or by those seeking ornate dress for the images of their pagan gods. Dressing a human king is nothing more than secular trade, but, as a Christian, Lydia may have refused to sell wares to the worshippers of false gods.
"Her customers of the purple cloth or dye would probably have scoffed at the gospel of Christ, but Lydia did not wait to see," Deen writes. "She put Christ first, and business afterward."
If ever her business suffered, her mentor taught her to count it as but rubbish so that she may gain Christ. (Philippians 3:8)
Commitment. Europe’s first church likely met within the walls of Lydia’s spacious abode. She not only availed her home but likely also her vast resources to help spread the Gospel of Christ. And, most notably, she cast aside concerns of her reputation in the business community and housed prisoners—Paul and company—after they had been released from Philippi’s jail. (v. 40)
Vigorous. Impassioned. Thirsty for God. Generous. Sacrificial. Putting Christ first. A spirit of hospitality. A spirit of giving. Committed. Lived for God instead of living for her reputation.
All these things resulted from one open heart. She was simply receptive to Paul’s testimony. Do we receive with an open heart the meaning and understanding from our time in the Word? Oh, that we could do it as well as Lydia and produce so much fruit that glorifies God!
Changing me, changing you
We have come with open hearts
O let the ancient words impart”
(Joy in the Morning is sponsoring this week’s In Other Words. Go there to see others' interpretation of this quote.)
What’s more important than the Scripture? Not much! LOL But, it is significantly less effective if we skip that important part in the third line…an open heart! So, I went searching the Word for an open heart and found Lydia in Acts 16.
14 Now a certain woman named Lydia heard [us.] She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. 15 And when she and her household were baptized, she begged [us,] saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay." So she persuaded us.
I’ve been focusing on some of the godly women of the Bible and their attributes in my daily reading. So, when I sought out some more info on Lydia, I found an online article from In Touch Ministries. Lydia was Europe’s first Christian convert! She was a “worshipper of God” (v14) but God opened her heart and when she heard Paul and Silas testify that Jesus was the Messiah, she was immediately baptized along with all of her household.
Lydia likely was a Gentile widow or an unmarried woman who was a Jewish convert. She is considered to have been a wealthy businesswoman. And, it also attributes several godly women characteristics to her: (this is a direct quote but with my emphases)
Vigor: Lydia had no sooner accepted Christ as her Savior than she invited His emissaries into her home. "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord," Lydia told Paul, "come into my house and stay" (v. 15). The New American Standard Version states that Lydia "prevailed upon" Paul’s party to stay. This wasn’t a whimsical offer. This was the impassioned plea of a woman athirst for God. Instantly, the Lord used her to house His most important minister of the early church, which penetrated Europe more extensively because of her generosity.
Sacrifice. Lydia’s business possibly suffered somewhat because of her conversion. Consider that much of the dye business was fueled either by those purchasing purple garments for royalty or by those seeking ornate dress for the images of their pagan gods. Dressing a human king is nothing more than secular trade, but, as a Christian, Lydia may have refused to sell wares to the worshippers of false gods.
"Her customers of the purple cloth or dye would probably have scoffed at the gospel of Christ, but Lydia did not wait to see," Deen writes. "She put Christ first, and business afterward."
If ever her business suffered, her mentor taught her to count it as but rubbish so that she may gain Christ. (Philippians 3:8)
Commitment. Europe’s first church likely met within the walls of Lydia’s spacious abode. She not only availed her home but likely also her vast resources to help spread the Gospel of Christ. And, most notably, she cast aside concerns of her reputation in the business community and housed prisoners—Paul and company—after they had been released from Philippi’s jail. (v. 40)
Vigorous. Impassioned. Thirsty for God. Generous. Sacrificial. Putting Christ first. A spirit of hospitality. A spirit of giving. Committed. Lived for God instead of living for her reputation.
All these things resulted from one open heart. She was simply receptive to Paul’s testimony. Do we receive with an open heart the meaning and understanding from our time in the Word? Oh, that we could do it as well as Lydia and produce so much fruit that glorifies God!
Monday, April 9, 2007
Godly Woman: Days 3 - 7
OK, I got a little behind blogging about this...LOL. I'll blame it on Easter preparations! *wink* So let's see...
Day Three: Ruth 3
Was a little lost about the whole "spread the corner of your garment over me..."
And, I was a little clueless about the whole history of marrying again within the same family if something should happen to your spouse but I think I grasped that Boaz would try to find her someone to marry and, if he can't, he'll marry her. He's trying to keep Naomi's land within the family.
I liked the empty-to-full metaphor thing going on. Naomi was utterly empty and is slowing being restored.
Day Four: Ruth 4
Little mention of Ruth other than her being taken as a bride to Boaz. Mostly the legal stuff of hashing out their kinsman-redeemer roles. The fact that the first kinsman-redeemer declined the offer of Naomi's land via Ruth and that Boaz stepped up makes me think that the Scripture is reinforcing how Ruth's and Boaz's selfless act are being rewarded. And, finally, Naomi's re-filling was complete.
Day Five: Esther 1
I've been told Esther can be seen a Christ-like figure in terms of being willing to die for her people and is an advocate on their behalf. So, how appropriate that the book of Esther records the annual festival of Purim, the yearly reminder of God's faithfulness to His people!
This first chapter set the scene, described the characters and explains how a queen is NOT to act in the form of Vashti. Xerxes, with Vashti's deposal, also confirms the Biblical principle that "every man should be ruler over his own household" (v22) while I'm not sure if throwing out the queen, soliciting all over the kingdom for virgins, and picking a new queen would be the way *I* would advocate dealing with it! LOL
Day Six: Esther 2
Esther is introduced. According to v15, Esther is Mordecai's great-niece. She had no parents (no explanation I could find) but apparently was an obedient young woman since it mentioned more than once how she obeyed Mordecai by not revealing her ancestry.
I'm not sure that being made queen immediately meant she was made a wife and lost her virginity. Not sure which, if any, of Esther's virtues are being exemplified through her preparation and eventual selection by Zerxes.
But, her virtue of loyalty seems to Xerxes as the assassination plot is revealed by Mordecai and reported to the king. Esther gave Mordecai credit. No self-seeking, self-aggrandizing behavior there.
Day Seven: Esther 3
Four years pass. Haman introduced. He is immediately a foil character to Mordecai. Mordecai uncovered a plot and goes unrewarded but Haman appears to be promoted without reason.
I found it interesting that my notes state that it wasn't because of the second commandment that Mordecai refused to bow to Haman (that's what I originally thought) but simply because of the outstanding and long-running problems between the Jews and the Amalekites. But, Mordecai's refusal started the wheels turning on Haman's plan to have all the Jews killed.
Esther's attributes not mentioned here yet. This is the setting up of the narrative of events that will lead to her eventual intervention.
Day Three: Ruth 3
Was a little lost about the whole "spread the corner of your garment over me..."
And, I was a little clueless about the whole history of marrying again within the same family if something should happen to your spouse but I think I grasped that Boaz would try to find her someone to marry and, if he can't, he'll marry her. He's trying to keep Naomi's land within the family.
I liked the empty-to-full metaphor thing going on. Naomi was utterly empty and is slowing being restored.
Day Four: Ruth 4
Little mention of Ruth other than her being taken as a bride to Boaz. Mostly the legal stuff of hashing out their kinsman-redeemer roles. The fact that the first kinsman-redeemer declined the offer of Naomi's land via Ruth and that Boaz stepped up makes me think that the Scripture is reinforcing how Ruth's and Boaz's selfless act are being rewarded. And, finally, Naomi's re-filling was complete.
Day Five: Esther 1
I've been told Esther can be seen a Christ-like figure in terms of being willing to die for her people and is an advocate on their behalf. So, how appropriate that the book of Esther records the annual festival of Purim, the yearly reminder of God's faithfulness to His people!
This first chapter set the scene, described the characters and explains how a queen is NOT to act in the form of Vashti. Xerxes, with Vashti's deposal, also confirms the Biblical principle that "every man should be ruler over his own household" (v22) while I'm not sure if throwing out the queen, soliciting all over the kingdom for virgins, and picking a new queen would be the way *I* would advocate dealing with it! LOL
Day Six: Esther 2
Esther is introduced. According to v15, Esther is Mordecai's great-niece. She had no parents (no explanation I could find) but apparently was an obedient young woman since it mentioned more than once how she obeyed Mordecai by not revealing her ancestry.
I'm not sure that being made queen immediately meant she was made a wife and lost her virginity. Not sure which, if any, of Esther's virtues are being exemplified through her preparation and eventual selection by Zerxes.
But, her virtue of loyalty seems to Xerxes as the assassination plot is revealed by Mordecai and reported to the king. Esther gave Mordecai credit. No self-seeking, self-aggrandizing behavior there.
Day Seven: Esther 3
Four years pass. Haman introduced. He is immediately a foil character to Mordecai. Mordecai uncovered a plot and goes unrewarded but Haman appears to be promoted without reason.
I found it interesting that my notes state that it wasn't because of the second commandment that Mordecai refused to bow to Haman (that's what I originally thought) but simply because of the outstanding and long-running problems between the Jews and the Amalekites. But, Mordecai's refusal started the wheels turning on Haman's plan to have all the Jews killed.
Esther's attributes not mentioned here yet. This is the setting up of the narrative of events that will lead to her eventual intervention.
SRT: Book #2 - When You Rise Up
As part of Katrina's Spring Reading Thing, I committed to read four books. This was not one of them, however. LOL (I mentioned in my first SRT post that I reserve the right to change my list at will! *wink*) But, since Kari so graciously gave it to me on loan from her online Lending Library a while ago, I felt that I needed to get it done.
But, where to begin? LOL Kari was right that this book, When You Rise Up by R.C. Sproul Jr., was different than any other book I'd read on homeschooling. We are currently in the process of deciding whether to begin this process with Flicka in 2 short years. This book leaves no equivocation. There's no missing how the author feels: "...because there can't be a rational, coherent argument against homeschooling." And, again when he says "...the most grievous error we can make is to send them off to school where Jesus is not plainly, fully, and publicly honored. In that great name may we all hasten the day when no parent at the same time claims to serve the King and yet allows his child to be trained by those who will not name that King."
This book brought out a real love/hate reaction in me that will be difficult to explain. He gave a clear (although repetitive) explanation of how Deuteronomy 6 calls parents to raise up their child in the fear and admonition of the Lord and how he feels that means it is a mandate from God that all parents (since believers are equipped for every good work and what could be more "good"than caring and teaching the babies God gave ya') are to homeschool. He asks the question - which is more important? Godly kids or smart kids? My question: why can't I have both?
He gave a solid explanation of the difference between "state schools", "school at home", and true homeschooling. His argument is if you are just doing a state school curriculum and running around taking your kids to all the state-school-activities-geared-now-for-homeschoolers then you are not really homeschooling - you are doing school-at-home.
He argues that a true homeschool following Deuteronomy 6 should have a curriculum that singularly begins and ends with the Bible and what he calls "The Three G's": Who is God? What has God done? What does God require?
Now, he also mentions that his children (all 6 of them, including one who is special needs) are learning Latin, philosophy, and many things considered a "classical" education. But, he also discusses with his children (in hopefully an age-appropriate way) that it is very possible that a time may come very shortly that they could be martyred for their faith.
What unsettled me the most was his discussion about different curriculum for boys and girls. Now, being a state certified teacher, I have seen much of the recent research about gender differences in learning, single sex classroom pros and cons, etc. And, I am all for God's plan of submission to Him, my husband, and child-to-parents. But, I have some concern with Sproul's plan to withhold parts of the curriculum from his daughters because their role "in the war" is to keep the home fires safe, peaceful, and burning.
"We raise our daughter to be warriors for the kingdom by raising them to be keepers at home...I'm not suggesting that the goal is to have ignorant daughters. I am, however, arguing that we are to train them to be keepers at homes...(in the family) we have one general, one king, and that is the husband. But our daughters are a part of that work, with the central focus on keeping the (home). They should be taught how to be careful stewards of God's provisions in their homes. To bring it down to earth a bit more, they need to learn how to bake bread. They need to know how to sew dresses..."
Now, my pre-saved single working woman attitude was absolutely screaming at this point. But, I'm trying to balance it from a Biblical viewpoint as well. Then, I thought I got to choose to stay home so why shouldn't Flicka? Can one be in Biblical submission and still be learned and working out of the home? Can a young girl be taught Biblical womanhood and its virtues of modesty, a quiet spirit, etc. and still daily be "in the world"? Perhaps you can see my dilemma. LOL
Anyway, the best thing I took away from this book was a chapter of absolutely excellent responses to those who are questioning our interest in homeschooling Flicka and Pojke.
He feels "the number one objection to homeschooling is the one that is never spoken out loud. I believe the reason people begin rejecting homeschool is that they are convinced it is too big a responsibility." He then speaks about the whole "you're not qualified to teach" argument.
He then discusses the "efficiency" argument - isn't it more efficient to teach all same-age kids the same way in the same classroom? He also spends a few paragraphs on the "it's too expensive" argument as well.
He then spends several pages on the "it's the well-being of the child" argument. "I can't teach (pick your subject) and in today's fast-paced economy everybody needs to know (that subject)." He also rails against parents who pick state schools because of their athletic opportunities or extracurricular activities. "If I homeschool, my baby will never get to work on the yearbook, go to prom, be the homecoming queen, etc." Then, "one of the most compelling arguments I've ever heard FOR homeschooling is the one given against it: 'my child will rebel if I homeschool him'." And, the classic objection: the socialization question.
Finally, he discusses the objection that often comes from within the church -that our children are to be light and salt so send them out to state schools. Sproul says (basically) if you are so concerned about reaching the lost, then send your child into a crack house or a brothel. Those people are just as lost. And, at least "those people don't have the authority to make our children sit and listen to their worldview being taught seven hours a day."
This book brought up A LOT of conversation between Da Hubby and I. We've also discussed it with another couple we go to church with. We are slowly digesting it, figuring out what it meant to us and our decision. But, if you are considering homeschooling as well, I'd say read this, let it shake you up and challenge you so you know *exactly* why you will be homeschooling!
But, where to begin? LOL Kari was right that this book, When You Rise Up by R.C. Sproul Jr., was different than any other book I'd read on homeschooling. We are currently in the process of deciding whether to begin this process with Flicka in 2 short years. This book leaves no equivocation. There's no missing how the author feels: "...because there can't be a rational, coherent argument against homeschooling." And, again when he says "...the most grievous error we can make is to send them off to school where Jesus is not plainly, fully, and publicly honored. In that great name may we all hasten the day when no parent at the same time claims to serve the King and yet allows his child to be trained by those who will not name that King."
This book brought out a real love/hate reaction in me that will be difficult to explain. He gave a clear (although repetitive) explanation of how Deuteronomy 6 calls parents to raise up their child in the fear and admonition of the Lord and how he feels that means it is a mandate from God that all parents (since believers are equipped for every good work and what could be more "good"than caring and teaching the babies God gave ya') are to homeschool. He asks the question - which is more important? Godly kids or smart kids? My question: why can't I have both?
He gave a solid explanation of the difference between "state schools", "school at home", and true homeschooling. His argument is if you are just doing a state school curriculum and running around taking your kids to all the state-school-activities-geared-now-for-homeschoolers then you are not really homeschooling - you are doing school-at-home.
He argues that a true homeschool following Deuteronomy 6 should have a curriculum that singularly begins and ends with the Bible and what he calls "The Three G's": Who is God? What has God done? What does God require?
Now, he also mentions that his children (all 6 of them, including one who is special needs) are learning Latin, philosophy, and many things considered a "classical" education. But, he also discusses with his children (in hopefully an age-appropriate way) that it is very possible that a time may come very shortly that they could be martyred for their faith.
What unsettled me the most was his discussion about different curriculum for boys and girls. Now, being a state certified teacher, I have seen much of the recent research about gender differences in learning, single sex classroom pros and cons, etc. And, I am all for God's plan of submission to Him, my husband, and child-to-parents. But, I have some concern with Sproul's plan to withhold parts of the curriculum from his daughters because their role "in the war" is to keep the home fires safe, peaceful, and burning.
"We raise our daughter to be warriors for the kingdom by raising them to be keepers at home...I'm not suggesting that the goal is to have ignorant daughters. I am, however, arguing that we are to train them to be keepers at homes...(in the family) we have one general, one king, and that is the husband. But our daughters are a part of that work, with the central focus on keeping the (home). They should be taught how to be careful stewards of God's provisions in their homes. To bring it down to earth a bit more, they need to learn how to bake bread. They need to know how to sew dresses..."
Now, my pre-saved single working woman attitude was absolutely screaming at this point. But, I'm trying to balance it from a Biblical viewpoint as well. Then, I thought I got to choose to stay home so why shouldn't Flicka? Can one be in Biblical submission and still be learned and working out of the home? Can a young girl be taught Biblical womanhood and its virtues of modesty, a quiet spirit, etc. and still daily be "in the world"? Perhaps you can see my dilemma. LOL
Anyway, the best thing I took away from this book was a chapter of absolutely excellent responses to those who are questioning our interest in homeschooling Flicka and Pojke.
He feels "the number one objection to homeschooling is the one that is never spoken out loud. I believe the reason people begin rejecting homeschool is that they are convinced it is too big a responsibility." He then speaks about the whole "you're not qualified to teach" argument.
He then discusses the "efficiency" argument - isn't it more efficient to teach all same-age kids the same way in the same classroom? He also spends a few paragraphs on the "it's too expensive" argument as well.
He then spends several pages on the "it's the well-being of the child" argument. "I can't teach (pick your subject) and in today's fast-paced economy everybody needs to know (that subject)." He also rails against parents who pick state schools because of their athletic opportunities or extracurricular activities. "If I homeschool, my baby will never get to work on the yearbook, go to prom, be the homecoming queen, etc." Then, "one of the most compelling arguments I've ever heard FOR homeschooling is the one given against it: 'my child will rebel if I homeschool him'." And, the classic objection: the socialization question.
Finally, he discusses the objection that often comes from within the church -that our children are to be light and salt so send them out to state schools. Sproul says (basically) if you are so concerned about reaching the lost, then send your child into a crack house or a brothel. Those people are just as lost. And, at least "those people don't have the authority to make our children sit and listen to their worldview being taught seven hours a day."
This book brought up A LOT of conversation between Da Hubby and I. We've also discussed it with another couple we go to church with. We are slowly digesting it, figuring out what it meant to us and our decision. But, if you are considering homeschooling as well, I'd say read this, let it shake you up and challenge you so you know *exactly* why you will be homeschooling!
Friday, April 6, 2007
On the Road Again (Soon)
We're leaving in two hours to see my family so my blogging plans today have changed...particularly since we haven't even started packing, Da Hubby and I haven't had showers, and the kids are running around in PJ's still! *wink* So, this is to say...I'll provide an IOU for the post I was planning and several days of Godly Woman 101! LOL And, since I somehow managed 8 posts in the last two days...I left ya' plenty to catch on! LOL
Have an amazing, blessed Easter/Resurrection Sunday!
He is Risen! He is Risen indeed!
Have an amazing, blessed Easter/Resurrection Sunday!
He is Risen! He is Risen indeed!
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Bloggers' Choice Awards
OK, I promise...I'm not on some posting binge. LOL Just because I’ve posted like 4 entries a day yesterday and today…I’m just catching up…really!
But, I was just surfing through the opportunities at PayPerPost and saw that they are starting a Blogger's Choice Awards. Wanting all those blogs that I frequent to be properly recognized (especially if it entails getting more traffic for believers' sites), I scanned the categories.
Many of them didn’t appeal to me. I guess I’m naïve but “Hottest Mommy Blogger” and “Most Obnoxious Blogger” aren’t something that I’m actually looking to nominate someone for! LOL
However, there are other categories like Best Religion Blog, Best Parenting Blog, and Best Humor Blog, which would definitely be more like the categories I’m interested in.
So, I signed up for an account and promptly nominated Everyday Mommy for best design (she’s done design for a living don’t ya’ know!), Confessions of a Pioneer Woman for best photography (have you SEEN what the woman can do with a camera, Photoshop, and her hugely cute family?), and Blogging Basics 101 (Chili’s and Shannon’s venture into explaining all this bloggy-mess to us beginners) for best blog about blogging.
So, if this is something that is up your alley, head over to these web awards. Vote for my nominees or create some of your own!
But, I was just surfing through the opportunities at PayPerPost and saw that they are starting a Blogger's Choice Awards. Wanting all those blogs that I frequent to be properly recognized (especially if it entails getting more traffic for believers' sites), I scanned the categories.
Many of them didn’t appeal to me. I guess I’m naïve but “Hottest Mommy Blogger” and “Most Obnoxious Blogger” aren’t something that I’m actually looking to nominate someone for! LOL
However, there are other categories like Best Religion Blog, Best Parenting Blog, and Best Humor Blog, which would definitely be more like the categories I’m interested in.
So, I signed up for an account and promptly nominated Everyday Mommy for best design (she’s done design for a living don’t ya’ know!), Confessions of a Pioneer Woman for best photography (have you SEEN what the woman can do with a camera, Photoshop, and her hugely cute family?), and Blogging Basics 101 (Chili’s and Shannon’s venture into explaining all this bloggy-mess to us beginners) for best blog about blogging.
So, if this is something that is up your alley, head over to these web awards. Vote for my nominees or create some of your own!
Thursday Thank Tank
Inspired by Peach... 
On this Thursday before Easter/Resurrection Sunday...
1. The wonders of modern medicine. After nearly 6 years without my Adderall for my ADD as I "grew", had, and nursed Flicka and Pojke, I've spent the last 23 days getting more done than I had in the previous six years! *wink* Not really but unless you depend on a medication like this to feel like you are functioning, it's hard to understand the feeling of *finally* finishing a thought, being more patient, being less distracted, finishing something (anything!) you've started, not having to leave large gatherings because the noise was too overwhleming (try having un-medicated ADD and go to a Pentecostal church every Sunday! LOL), etc.
2. A broadcast TV antenna. LOL This may seem weird until I tell you that Da Hubby and I decided last Sunday to turn off our cable. We went from having 65 channels to 10 - 1 CBS, 2 ABC, 2 NBC, 2 PBS, WGN, a FOX and the CW. (Thank goodness we live between two big cities or we'd lose those three duplicates! LOL) The previous owners ofthis house already had a large tower next to it which, after a small $20 part from Lowe's, works prefectly. I don't miss it much (except for an occasional Food Network or Discovery Channel craving) and the kids haven't noticed it at all. Bless God. Now was the time. We felt directed to get this out of our home for our benefit as well as the kids.
3. Praise and Worship music (again). Lately, it is still the quickest slap-in-the-face-and-FOCUS way to get me to remember God's greatness, His glory, and His Son. This one from Mercy Me had me balling over the breakfast dishes this morning:
I'm finding myself at a loss for words.
And the funny thing is - it's ok.
The last thing I need is to be heard
but to hear what you would say.
CHORUS:
Word of God speak
would you pour down like rain
washing my eyes to see
your majesty
To be still and know
that you're in this place
Please let me stay and rest
in your holiness
Word of God speak
I'm finding myself in the midst of you
beyond the music, beyond the noise
All that I need is to be with you
and in quiet hear your voice
I'm finding myself at a loss for words and the funny thing is it's ok
4. The chance to see my family this weekend. Plan A was a 5 hour round trip travel time to eat dinner with my mom and step-dad Saturday. Several plans later? We're leaving around 1pm tomorrow, will be making dinner for my dad and step-mom, staying at their house, making breakfast for them, then going to my mom and step-dad's for dinner. The Vikings should be so spoiled in that 36 hours, it'll take a week to "un-do"! LOL
5. And, finally, ultimately, obviously, the resurrection...without it, what's the point? *wink*
On this Thursday before Easter/Resurrection Sunday...
1. The wonders of modern medicine. After nearly 6 years without my Adderall for my ADD as I "grew", had, and nursed Flicka and Pojke, I've spent the last 23 days getting more done than I had in the previous six years! *wink* Not really but unless you depend on a medication like this to feel like you are functioning, it's hard to understand the feeling of *finally* finishing a thought, being more patient, being less distracted, finishing something (anything!) you've started, not having to leave large gatherings because the noise was too overwhleming (try having un-medicated ADD and go to a Pentecostal church every Sunday! LOL), etc.
2. A broadcast TV antenna. LOL This may seem weird until I tell you that Da Hubby and I decided last Sunday to turn off our cable. We went from having 65 channels to 10 - 1 CBS, 2 ABC, 2 NBC, 2 PBS, WGN, a FOX and the CW. (Thank goodness we live between two big cities or we'd lose those three duplicates! LOL) The previous owners ofthis house already had a large tower next to it which, after a small $20 part from Lowe's, works prefectly. I don't miss it much (except for an occasional Food Network or Discovery Channel craving) and the kids haven't noticed it at all. Bless God. Now was the time. We felt directed to get this out of our home for our benefit as well as the kids.
3. Praise and Worship music (again). Lately, it is still the quickest slap-in-the-face-and-FOCUS way to get me to remember God's greatness, His glory, and His Son. This one from Mercy Me had me balling over the breakfast dishes this morning:
I'm finding myself at a loss for words.
And the funny thing is - it's ok.
The last thing I need is to be heard
but to hear what you would say.
CHORUS:
Word of God speak
would you pour down like rain
washing my eyes to see
your majesty
To be still and know
that you're in this place
Please let me stay and rest
in your holiness
Word of God speak
I'm finding myself in the midst of you
beyond the music, beyond the noise
All that I need is to be with you
and in quiet hear your voice
I'm finding myself at a loss for words and the funny thing is it's ok
4. The chance to see my family this weekend. Plan A was a 5 hour round trip travel time to eat dinner with my mom and step-dad Saturday. Several plans later? We're leaving around 1pm tomorrow, will be making dinner for my dad and step-mom, staying at their house, making breakfast for them, then going to my mom and step-dad's for dinner. The Vikings should be so spoiled in that 36 hours, it'll take a week to "un-do"! LOL
5. And, finally, ultimately, obviously, the resurrection...without it, what's the point? *wink*
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