I'm not usually a person to recommend movies. Quite frankly there aren't many out there worth recommending; however, we saw "Facing the Giants" this weekend and I'm recommending it. Not only was it entertaining, funny and enjoyable for the whole family, it was also a Christian movie with a wonderful message... NOTHING is impossible with God.
I love asking Molly (4), "What is impossible for God?" She answers with, "Nothing, coach!"
Don't ya want your kids to see the movie now?
Amazing... I had 3 paragraphs here that just disappeared...
The part of the movie that hit home to me was the story of 2 men who prayed for rain. They were in a drought and needed the rain for their crops. One man prayed and one prayed and then prepared his crops for the rain. Who expected God to answer.
I have been praying, but expecting God to say no.
Mark 11:24 says "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."
I need to pray believing and prepare for rain.
This is what I did Friday night.
I prayed for a blessing and changed my attitude to excited anticipation.
What would God do? How would he move? What would happen in the morning?
First of all, my husband thought I needed a break and didn't wake me up in the morning.
I didn't get up until 11:45 am. For those of you who can't sleep in, borrow my babies for a few nights. You'll be amazed at their nocturnal prowess and sleep when you can!!
That would have been enough.
I was rested enough to be productive and enjoy playing skip-bo with the kids.
Then I got a phone call from Aunt Anne. Aunt Anne and Cousin Angela asked me if I wanted to come visit and attend a Kay Arthur conference with them next month in Ontario. Of course I would love to, but its not possible for me financially to do that... but Kay Arthur!! Angela knows Kay Arthur is one of those women who has taught me much about how much Christ loves me and pushed me to know God better... through her wonderful Bible studies! As I'm declining I'm dreaming inside of how wonderful it would be to just be able to fly up to visit for a few days... then Aunt Anne is still talking ... "and I'd pay for your plane ticket and get you into the conference. Ang and I are going and we just think it would be so much fun if you were there too." After discussing it with Dave, he realized he had nothing pressing at the office and could his work from home for a few days and I'M GOING!!!!
I'm so excited. God chooses to bless when we prepare our fields for his blessing. I was preparing for His grace to sustain me when things were tough... and He marvelously sent His sustaining grace down. Now I'm ready for a blessing.
Jack, Molly and Justin are playing sweetly after a little veggie tales marathon here. They are singing the SUV silly song and the Busy, busy song from Flibber-o-loo and I'm seeing the blessing there too.
Molly what is impossible for God? "Nothing, coach!!"
She is now singing "Every step I take ... sha na na naaa na na"
Life is good!
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Saturday, March 17, 2007
BRF -- Mark 9-12
Have you ever tried to tell someone something that is important to you and they just aren't listening? This happened to me about a week ago. The first time I was interrupted, I figured she just didn't hear me. Since what I had to say was important I tried again. Again she looked everywhere but at me and changed the subject. The 3rd time I was quite bold... "Hey, are you listening to me? I have something to say here. ...." Again, blown off. I wasn't really thrilled, but figured she'd figure this out on her own. Someone else could tell her, or not I didn't care anymore.
How do you think Jesus felt. He had something weighing heavily on his mind. I'm finding it brought up purposefully to his disciples 4 times and then put in a parable for everyone. What did the disciples just not get?? Jesus was going to die, and then rise from the dead.
If my friend said that to me I'd be asking some questions? Did I hear that right? What can I do for you? Why is this happening? How do you know? Lots of good questions.
What do Jesus friends do? The first time Peter takes Him aside and rebukes Him for it.
The second time they didn't understand what He meant and were afraid to ask Him about it. Maybe because Jesus yelled at Peter the time before!! Maybe they didn't care enough.
Right after He told them the 3rd time, James and John asked Jesus for a favor they had no right to ask for. "Yeah, yeah, you're gonna' die. We get it. Can we sit beside you in Heaven?" These disciples are classy guys. Are they even listening??
Again He tries to tell them... Can you drink the cup I drink?? .... Even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.
Are they cluing in yet that He's going to die?
I think the teachers of the law and the elders got it in chapter 12. Jesus gives a parable of the tenants and how the tenants killed off all of the vineyard owners servants and then even killed his son. They knew Jesus spoke the parable against them. They knew they were plotting to kill him even then.
I know there was a lot in these 4 chapters to talk about. There is giving all we have whether its a lot or a pittance to follow Christ. There is the loving God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind and loving your neighbor as yourself. The importance of paying taxes and recognizing the authority of the government. How God hates divorce and remarriage after divorce is adultery. How Jesus loves children and we had better watch to make sure we aren't causing any to stumble (a message for mom's as we have what it takes to crush or encourage our children's spirits). Not to mention squabbling over who is better than who and what Jesus thinks of that.
I was mostly impressed though on our denseness as followers of Christ. Not to be mean, but do we pay attention enough to the words of our Lord? Is His message resonating within us or do we brush it off, argue with Christ, nod and agree without having a clue what He really is saying or just rush through what He says (Bible reading) so we can say what we have to say (prayer).
I have to say most of the time I'm like the disciples. I rush through my reading and then feel I can say what I have to say without even cluing in that this is GOD talking to me. Instead of listening to His voice properly I'm waiting for the lull in the conversation so I can put in my 2 cents worth. I'm an idiot. Look at all the valuable learning time I have callously tossed away.
It took a good friend (usually) being a rather poor friend (one day) and not paying one bit of attention to what I had to say at all to help me see me in this passage. I'm not one bit happy with myself.
I love the verse "Be still and know that I am God"
Maybe because I have a hard time being still this verse has seemed so beautiful and other worldly. I need to be still more. I think for awhile its OK to even pray less fervently and just listen. He knows my heart and needs. I don't mean quit praying altogether ... like I could if I tried!! Just relax and let His words sink in. Reading the same passage over and over is helping though.
On to chapters 13-16!!
How do you think Jesus felt. He had something weighing heavily on his mind. I'm finding it brought up purposefully to his disciples 4 times and then put in a parable for everyone. What did the disciples just not get?? Jesus was going to die, and then rise from the dead.
If my friend said that to me I'd be asking some questions? Did I hear that right? What can I do for you? Why is this happening? How do you know? Lots of good questions.
What do Jesus friends do? The first time Peter takes Him aside and rebukes Him for it.
The second time they didn't understand what He meant and were afraid to ask Him about it. Maybe because Jesus yelled at Peter the time before!! Maybe they didn't care enough.
Right after He told them the 3rd time, James and John asked Jesus for a favor they had no right to ask for. "Yeah, yeah, you're gonna' die. We get it. Can we sit beside you in Heaven?" These disciples are classy guys. Are they even listening??
Again He tries to tell them... Can you drink the cup I drink?? .... Even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.
Are they cluing in yet that He's going to die?
I think the teachers of the law and the elders got it in chapter 12. Jesus gives a parable of the tenants and how the tenants killed off all of the vineyard owners servants and then even killed his son. They knew Jesus spoke the parable against them. They knew they were plotting to kill him even then.
I know there was a lot in these 4 chapters to talk about. There is giving all we have whether its a lot or a pittance to follow Christ. There is the loving God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind and loving your neighbor as yourself. The importance of paying taxes and recognizing the authority of the government. How God hates divorce and remarriage after divorce is adultery. How Jesus loves children and we had better watch to make sure we aren't causing any to stumble (a message for mom's as we have what it takes to crush or encourage our children's spirits). Not to mention squabbling over who is better than who and what Jesus thinks of that.
I was mostly impressed though on our denseness as followers of Christ. Not to be mean, but do we pay attention enough to the words of our Lord? Is His message resonating within us or do we brush it off, argue with Christ, nod and agree without having a clue what He really is saying or just rush through what He says (Bible reading) so we can say what we have to say (prayer).
I have to say most of the time I'm like the disciples. I rush through my reading and then feel I can say what I have to say without even cluing in that this is GOD talking to me. Instead of listening to His voice properly I'm waiting for the lull in the conversation so I can put in my 2 cents worth. I'm an idiot. Look at all the valuable learning time I have callously tossed away.
It took a good friend (usually) being a rather poor friend (one day) and not paying one bit of attention to what I had to say at all to help me see me in this passage. I'm not one bit happy with myself.
I love the verse "Be still and know that I am God"
Maybe because I have a hard time being still this verse has seemed so beautiful and other worldly. I need to be still more. I think for awhile its OK to even pray less fervently and just listen. He knows my heart and needs. I don't mean quit praying altogether ... like I could if I tried!! Just relax and let His words sink in. Reading the same passage over and over is helping though.
On to chapters 13-16!!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Amy's survey
Every now and then I feel the need to complete a survey. I have no idea who Amy is, but I'm hoping this will help her!! I found this on Shannon's blog. I don't know Shannon very well either.. never in person or even on the phone... but I do know Shannon's sister and brother-in-law!!
How long have you been married?
15 1/2 years
How long did you and your spouse really know each other before you married?
6 months
Looking back, how prepared do you feel you were for marriage?
almost enough... not quite
If you have kids, how long did you wait before starting your family?
We didn't really wait. We wanted them whenever God wanted us to have them. Caitlyn was born 2 1/2 years after we were married. We had a miscarriage when we were married 14 months... on Christmas Day... in Calgary when our family was in the Maritimes... hard year.
How many children do you have and what are their ages?
We are expecting #8 in July. Caitlyn is 13 next month, Matt is 10, Connor is 9 today!!, Courtney is 7, Molly 4, Jack is 3 and Justin is 14 months.
What challenges have you faced at this stage in your marriage?
We have both babies and puberty here. I'm tired and they aren't. We are always looking for Christian friends that believe the Bible is the final authority and not our feelings. Much tougher challenge than we thought especially when our kids are reaching the ages where they are interested in other views outside our family.
If you have kids, has your relationship changed since you've added them to your family?
yes
If so, in what way(s)?
We have a real need to work together for our family. When we don't spend the time we need together WITHOUT THE KIDS we work at cross purposes at times which can cause real stress.
What resources or support systems do you have that benefit your marriage?
I read a lot. I depend on women such as Elizabeth George, Anne Ortlund and Nancy Leigh DeMoss for their wisdom, honesty and at times a good kick in the behind... all from the pages of their well written books. I have been longing for a wise Titus 2 lady to mentor me for years and never found one. Someday I hope to be a good resource or support for another young struggling mom... or more!
The Bible of course is the best resource I have. If I can be the wife the Bible has outlined for me, life would be so much better. When I am struggling to make myself my husbands Holy Spirit, I make a mess of things. Being the "weaker" vessel is a wondrous blessing for my husband, children and myself.
What advice do you have for young couples contemplating marriage and starting a family?
First of all, make your relationship with the Lord your highest priority. Being married is tough. Everyone else seems to think they know what is best for your family when the simple fact is God is leading different families in different ways. Seek the Lord together. You may think that you will automatically want to pray and search the scriptures together always, but you have no idea how Satan will try to destroy your marriage. Its work. Nothing is automatic except sin and selfish behaviour... even yours. Take responsibility for your faults and let the Holy Spirit work in your spouse to lead them to take responsibility for theirs.
AND THE BIGGY......What is/are the biggest need(s) that you have as a husband/wife at this stage in your marriage? If you can only take the time to answer ONE question, please answer the last one!
The biggest need we have at this stage in our married lives is to commit to prayer and Bible study together. My husband even went out and bought a special book for us to do about 3 months ago and we have never opened it together. It is tough to find the time... this has been the hardest winter we have had on many, many levels... and we both want to. We just have to get together and do it.
Ok, that was really honest and who knows who is going to read this!
My husband will for one thing... Hi D!!
Hope this helps Amy.
I should check your blog to see if you are a christian... this may be drivel to you if you aren't.
Oh well, you ask strangers for help... sometimes you get drivel, sometimes gold.
How long have you been married?
15 1/2 years
How long did you and your spouse really know each other before you married?
6 months
Looking back, how prepared do you feel you were for marriage?
almost enough... not quite
If you have kids, how long did you wait before starting your family?
We didn't really wait. We wanted them whenever God wanted us to have them. Caitlyn was born 2 1/2 years after we were married. We had a miscarriage when we were married 14 months... on Christmas Day... in Calgary when our family was in the Maritimes... hard year.
How many children do you have and what are their ages?
We are expecting #8 in July. Caitlyn is 13 next month, Matt is 10, Connor is 9 today!!, Courtney is 7, Molly 4, Jack is 3 and Justin is 14 months.
What challenges have you faced at this stage in your marriage?
We have both babies and puberty here. I'm tired and they aren't. We are always looking for Christian friends that believe the Bible is the final authority and not our feelings. Much tougher challenge than we thought especially when our kids are reaching the ages where they are interested in other views outside our family.
If you have kids, has your relationship changed since you've added them to your family?
yes
If so, in what way(s)?
We have a real need to work together for our family. When we don't spend the time we need together WITHOUT THE KIDS we work at cross purposes at times which can cause real stress.
What resources or support systems do you have that benefit your marriage?
I read a lot. I depend on women such as Elizabeth George, Anne Ortlund and Nancy Leigh DeMoss for their wisdom, honesty and at times a good kick in the behind... all from the pages of their well written books. I have been longing for a wise Titus 2 lady to mentor me for years and never found one. Someday I hope to be a good resource or support for another young struggling mom... or more!
The Bible of course is the best resource I have. If I can be the wife the Bible has outlined for me, life would be so much better. When I am struggling to make myself my husbands Holy Spirit, I make a mess of things. Being the "weaker" vessel is a wondrous blessing for my husband, children and myself.
What advice do you have for young couples contemplating marriage and starting a family?
First of all, make your relationship with the Lord your highest priority. Being married is tough. Everyone else seems to think they know what is best for your family when the simple fact is God is leading different families in different ways. Seek the Lord together. You may think that you will automatically want to pray and search the scriptures together always, but you have no idea how Satan will try to destroy your marriage. Its work. Nothing is automatic except sin and selfish behaviour... even yours. Take responsibility for your faults and let the Holy Spirit work in your spouse to lead them to take responsibility for theirs.
AND THE BIGGY......What is/are the biggest need(s) that you have as a husband/wife at this stage in your marriage? If you can only take the time to answer ONE question, please answer the last one!
The biggest need we have at this stage in our married lives is to commit to prayer and Bible study together. My husband even went out and bought a special book for us to do about 3 months ago and we have never opened it together. It is tough to find the time... this has been the hardest winter we have had on many, many levels... and we both want to. We just have to get together and do it.
Ok, that was really honest and who knows who is going to read this!
My husband will for one thing... Hi D!!
Hope this helps Amy.
I should check your blog to see if you are a christian... this may be drivel to you if you aren't.
Oh well, you ask strangers for help... sometimes you get drivel, sometimes gold.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Happy 9th birthday Connor
Happy Birthday to Connor!! He's 9!!
He is also wonderful enough to put his party off until next weekend when (as he puts it) we'll have some time for him. His big gift of the day is no schoolwork and he's quite thrilled with that.
BRF-- Mark 5-8
Once again... late... sorry.
What struck me most about this passage was the many times that people were amazed at what Christ was doing. He did many, many miracles in this passage. Demons cast out, blind see, dead brought to life, crowds fed, water walked on, etc...
Everyone was amazed, and rightly so.
After healings and demons cast out and the dead raised Jesus goes home for a visit and HE was amazed at their lack of faith. They didn't even have faith that Jesus could do for them what He was doing for everyone else. Sad. These were the people He would have most loved to help. His lifelong friends and family and they wouldn't be helped.
I love that the disciples didn't get it when Jesus fed the 5000, so He repeated the miracle and they still didn't get it. Do I get what Jesus really wanted us to know? I can see His loving care for our needs and we don't need to worry. I also see the foreshadowing to His death. His body broken for us is more than "just" the body. After being broken it becomes sustenance for all with more left over for others. There is no end to His salvation.
Is there more? Most likely.
How wild to see your friend come running over the water!! No wonder Peter is finally at the point where He knows for sure who Jesus is, the Christ, the Son of God! The disciples have been there for the whole ride and are now ready for this amazing truth. This is no ordinary man, its God.
The graveyard, demon, dead raising thing is still really creepy for me. This is the part of Jesus that I fear... not afraid of mind you, awesome fear. This is the stuff that is so far outside the realm of my experience that I like to gloss over it. I have never liked scary stuff and shun occult activities... Christ just fights it... and wins every time. Creepy, but ultra cool and totally powerful.
I'm amazed that the Pharisees dare to test Jesus. How blind could they be? They just out and out refuse to see the truth and are missing out on soooo much. They could be chatting with Jesus and getting the answers to the questions they have always had. They could be healed and have family members healed. They could be fed in soul and body, but they refuse. They would rather be empty and unfulfilled than admit they were speaking to God. And they called Him unclean!!! ai-yi-yi!!
Whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit His soul?
Back to priorities again. I am so struggling with this. The more I am desperate to have my priorities straight the harder this road is. This must be of extreme importance as I am feeling the battle between my old nature and new one constantly lately.
I often wonder why God allows the struggle. I want to lose my life for the gospel but my life just won't die for the gospel. I know what I mean even if no one else does. This is not literal, I'm not suicidal... I just want it to be easy. I want the old man to stop breathing completely so I can do what I want... be faithful to the word and to prayer.
What struck me most about this passage was the many times that people were amazed at what Christ was doing. He did many, many miracles in this passage. Demons cast out, blind see, dead brought to life, crowds fed, water walked on, etc...
Everyone was amazed, and rightly so.
After healings and demons cast out and the dead raised Jesus goes home for a visit and HE was amazed at their lack of faith. They didn't even have faith that Jesus could do for them what He was doing for everyone else. Sad. These were the people He would have most loved to help. His lifelong friends and family and they wouldn't be helped.
I love that the disciples didn't get it when Jesus fed the 5000, so He repeated the miracle and they still didn't get it. Do I get what Jesus really wanted us to know? I can see His loving care for our needs and we don't need to worry. I also see the foreshadowing to His death. His body broken for us is more than "just" the body. After being broken it becomes sustenance for all with more left over for others. There is no end to His salvation.
Is there more? Most likely.
How wild to see your friend come running over the water!! No wonder Peter is finally at the point where He knows for sure who Jesus is, the Christ, the Son of God! The disciples have been there for the whole ride and are now ready for this amazing truth. This is no ordinary man, its God.
The graveyard, demon, dead raising thing is still really creepy for me. This is the part of Jesus that I fear... not afraid of mind you, awesome fear. This is the stuff that is so far outside the realm of my experience that I like to gloss over it. I have never liked scary stuff and shun occult activities... Christ just fights it... and wins every time. Creepy, but ultra cool and totally powerful.
I'm amazed that the Pharisees dare to test Jesus. How blind could they be? They just out and out refuse to see the truth and are missing out on soooo much. They could be chatting with Jesus and getting the answers to the questions they have always had. They could be healed and have family members healed. They could be fed in soul and body, but they refuse. They would rather be empty and unfulfilled than admit they were speaking to God. And they called Him unclean!!! ai-yi-yi!!
Whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit His soul?
Back to priorities again. I am so struggling with this. The more I am desperate to have my priorities straight the harder this road is. This must be of extreme importance as I am feeling the battle between my old nature and new one constantly lately.
I often wonder why God allows the struggle. I want to lose my life for the gospel but my life just won't die for the gospel. I know what I mean even if no one else does. This is not literal, I'm not suicidal... I just want it to be easy. I want the old man to stop breathing completely so I can do what I want... be faithful to the word and to prayer.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Mice again
We have a mouse in the ceiling over the computer. I hate the scrabbly scratching sound. We have 2 cats!!!! You'd think they would at least react to the noise.... since the kids have been watching Cinderella, and think this is great! They actually would like to dress the horrid things.
I'm not too thrilled with cats either.
We have them to kill mice... we live in the country so mice are a fact of life... but those cats sure aren't worth their salt. They do kill the mice outside.. I guess inside must be a refuge.
Caitlyn is talking to Gramma (my mom) who was given 2 big bags of dress clothes for Caitlyn. Mom wanted to know when we are going down... she asks me at least every week and I keep telling her not until May. She says that asking doesn't hurt (just drives me crazy). I asked her when she was coming up with the clothes and that annoyed her. She is busy y'know... I do know and so am I. Now Caitlyn is asking over and over when Gramma is coming up... I hope Gramma sees how annoying it is and stops asking me!!
I should ask Mom to send the stuff with Jodie.
I'm not too thrilled with cats either.
We have them to kill mice... we live in the country so mice are a fact of life... but those cats sure aren't worth their salt. They do kill the mice outside.. I guess inside must be a refuge.
Caitlyn is talking to Gramma (my mom) who was given 2 big bags of dress clothes for Caitlyn. Mom wanted to know when we are going down... she asks me at least every week and I keep telling her not until May. She says that asking doesn't hurt (just drives me crazy). I asked her when she was coming up with the clothes and that annoyed her. She is busy y'know... I do know and so am I. Now Caitlyn is asking over and over when Gramma is coming up... I hope Gramma sees how annoying it is and stops asking me!!
I should ask Mom to send the stuff with Jodie.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
If you want to know, just read
My husband is on the roof again!!
This is a scary time for me as the boy has a definite tendancy to fall. The snow up there is melting though and being blocked by more snow so its leaking through the porch roof. There will be some roofing done this summer!!
The snow is coming off well and I have the curtains open to save my DH in case of a fall!!
Molly and Jack are "resting", the older 4 are outside and Justin is playing at my feet. I love moments like this... quiet and happy!!!
I am soooo disappointed today. I really loved the Wesleyan church, the people, the service, the worship...
We had the pastor in yesterday.
We had 3 main issues that we cannot back down from...
- the foundation of the church as laid out in Timothy and Titus
- remarriage of believers after divorce
- women in the pulpit/deacons
We believe if the church is set up properly (as Paul so painstakingly spells out in his letters to the new pastors Timothy and Titus) many of the problems in the church will be taken care of by the godly men who are in charge.
There will never be a problem with watering down the word so it is more palatable to the masses.
It is clear throughout scripture that if a person is divorced they are not to remarry as long as the other is still alive. Too many scriptures back this up to mention... I am not interested in a debate!!!
It is also clear that it is abominable for a woman to be in authority over a man... again not open for discussion ... that is how it is worded in scripture!
This pastor feels that all these things are ok and that God's grace will cover it all. The apostle Paul would have more than a few words for that attitude.
Yes, God's grace covers any and all sin, but how can we choose to ignore what God says in His word?
Romans 6:1 "What shall we say then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?"
Can we join a church who believes in easy believism and just trust that God's grace will cover it? No. We need to belong to a body of believers who can look at God's word and say... "God says it. I believe it. That settles it." not "Yes, God says THAT but I believe....."
This really hurts as the people in this church are so wonderful! Will we ever find a church for us? Spirit and truth. Not one without the other. Love, grace, truth, freedom and joy!
Obedience is freedom. Truth is joy. Christ is love and grace.
How horrible to miss out on freedom because the word is not enough.
Dave will be calling more churches this week.
Most of em have the gospel down pat. Ok, we're saved now, let's go a little deeper!!!
Matt and the kid across the street are keeping an eye on Dave. The shoveling has stopped. Hopefully its done and the ladder can go away until summertime!
Justin has taken off.
Dave might be able (most likely can) to get permission to do his work from home. He does all his work on the internet and telephone anyway. There is money alloted from his dept to pay for his office space at work. If we can finish the house and sell it we can move.... anywhere with good internet access. He should be getting a raise soon too.
If anyone out there knows of a good, Bible BELIEVING, soldier equipping church out there. Give us a shout!!
I think there is a new one in Quispamsis that is really good, but that would mean going back to Quispam which is becoming very expensive. We'd really like to live where its not so pricey!!
Oh great, Matt's on his way up the ladder!! I'm just not going to look!!!
This is a scary time for me as the boy has a definite tendancy to fall. The snow up there is melting though and being blocked by more snow so its leaking through the porch roof. There will be some roofing done this summer!!
The snow is coming off well and I have the curtains open to save my DH in case of a fall!!
Molly and Jack are "resting", the older 4 are outside and Justin is playing at my feet. I love moments like this... quiet and happy!!!
I am soooo disappointed today. I really loved the Wesleyan church, the people, the service, the worship...
We had the pastor in yesterday.
We had 3 main issues that we cannot back down from...
- the foundation of the church as laid out in Timothy and Titus
- remarriage of believers after divorce
- women in the pulpit/deacons
We believe if the church is set up properly (as Paul so painstakingly spells out in his letters to the new pastors Timothy and Titus) many of the problems in the church will be taken care of by the godly men who are in charge.
There will never be a problem with watering down the word so it is more palatable to the masses.
It is clear throughout scripture that if a person is divorced they are not to remarry as long as the other is still alive. Too many scriptures back this up to mention... I am not interested in a debate!!!
It is also clear that it is abominable for a woman to be in authority over a man... again not open for discussion ... that is how it is worded in scripture!
This pastor feels that all these things are ok and that God's grace will cover it all. The apostle Paul would have more than a few words for that attitude.
Yes, God's grace covers any and all sin, but how can we choose to ignore what God says in His word?
Romans 6:1 "What shall we say then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?"
Can we join a church who believes in easy believism and just trust that God's grace will cover it? No. We need to belong to a body of believers who can look at God's word and say... "God says it. I believe it. That settles it." not "Yes, God says THAT but I believe....."
This really hurts as the people in this church are so wonderful! Will we ever find a church for us? Spirit and truth. Not one without the other. Love, grace, truth, freedom and joy!
Obedience is freedom. Truth is joy. Christ is love and grace.
How horrible to miss out on freedom because the word is not enough.
Dave will be calling more churches this week.
Most of em have the gospel down pat. Ok, we're saved now, let's go a little deeper!!!
Matt and the kid across the street are keeping an eye on Dave. The shoveling has stopped. Hopefully its done and the ladder can go away until summertime!
Justin has taken off.
Dave might be able (most likely can) to get permission to do his work from home. He does all his work on the internet and telephone anyway. There is money alloted from his dept to pay for his office space at work. If we can finish the house and sell it we can move.... anywhere with good internet access. He should be getting a raise soon too.
If anyone out there knows of a good, Bible BELIEVING, soldier equipping church out there. Give us a shout!!
I think there is a new one in Quispamsis that is really good, but that would mean going back to Quispam which is becoming very expensive. We'd really like to live where its not so pricey!!
Oh great, Matt's on his way up the ladder!! I'm just not going to look!!!
Friday, March 02, 2007
BRF -- Mark 1-4
This was not a great week of reading for me. After reading Psalm 119 last week and wanting a real desire for God's word, I failed. Wanting and choosing to read are 2 different things. I need to do better.
On to Mark 1-4.
This was a crammed pack 4 chapters. There is no way to touch on all of it and not be long winded. I am trying to make these shorter (ha ha!).
What a scary time period. That was one thing that jumped out at me. First of all, politically it was a mess. There was great fear of the Romans and the Jewish leaders. Then there is this weird guy preaching in the wilderness. He's like no one they've met before.. a wild man who is preaching "Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" The men probably think this is great... no TV remember? This is high entertainment! But this is really kinda weird. Then this other guy shows up, gets baptized and Heaven makes itself known. Ever wonder what the voice of God sounds like? The VOICE OF GOD... SPEAKS!!
This is not normal.
This is kinda weird and scary... and cool.
Is it any wonder that Peter, Andrew, James and John took off from their nets when Jesus called them?? How could they not know what happened out in the wilderness. Most likely they were even there to see it. GOD said this was His son!!!
I'd jump and run too. I'd probably be a little freaked out, while being amazingly honored that He would choose me to go with Him!!
Here's another weird thing... He casts demons out of people and they leave with a shriek. Again, would you be scared?? I would. I think its amazing that demon possession seemed to be so normal. Is it normal now and we just don't recognize it?
Jesus job was to go around and preach to the villagers. I wonder if He was mentally preparing Himself for that guy... y'know, the one with leprosy... the one that didn't obey as well as the departing demons did. Jesus said go, get cleansed at the temple and DON'T MENTION THIS HEALING THING TO ANYONE!!! Its ok to use caps and !!!'s because Jesus spoke strongly to this particular gentleman who promptly disobeyed and Jesus life was changed forever. No more easy travel and quiet visiting. Now He was a travelling sideshow!
There were crowds everywhere!! He was able to get away early in the morning to pray. It must have been really early. Remember, there was no TV, theater, hockey games, etc... to entertain these people. They came in huge crowds to check out this novelty, this faith healer.
The Jewish leaders were getting antsy. People now wanted Jesus opinion instead of theirs. Many were there for the show, a good many were there as seekers of the truth. God had been silent for hundreds of years!! How terribly exciting that God was on the move again!!
Gotta love the family, they thought He was bonkers. The Jesus they grew up with did NOT heal and perform miracles and speak to multitudes of people. He was a quiet carpenter who they thought was delusional and they were coming to take the dear boy home!
Meanwhile, the crowds were getting so big Jesus had to speak from a boat. I always wondered at this until it dawned on me this week... there were no microphones... just one man and a big crowd! Without an amphitheater the best way to speak to a crowd was over some water. If you've ever been near the water, you'll know how well sound travels over water!! There are a lotta maritimers here... even Charlotte County ones!! who would get this concept! Jesus on a boat, crowd along the shore... He talks, they can all listen... brilliant!
What a good job to grab the guys with the boats. They either have 'em or know everyone with one around the Sea of Galilee.
I missed one of these parables. I don't reacall ever reading the Parable of the Growing Seed. It never clicked I guess. Seeds that we sow for Christ, whether we are there to take care of them or not, have a habit of sprouting. The kingdom of Heaven will advance regardless of us. Little seeds grow, sprout and are ready for the harvest and we don't know how!! We don't need to know, God knows. We cannot make seeds grow and sprout. God can.
I have heard that the only thing that matters is bringing souls to the Lord. I disagree. The only thing that matters is that we are faithful to sow the seed. We may never know what happens to it. We may never see any harvest for any seeds we sow, and feel like we have failed the Lord. I've heard of missionaries going 25, 30 years and never seeing a convert. Did they fail? NO
They sowed the seed. The harvest is up to the Lord.
I love the boat story. Jesus is trying to take a nap. The storm acted like my kids when I try to take a nap... pestered the Lord until He woke up! "Quiet, be still!!" He says, just like its my naughty kids but unlike my kids the storm obeys immediately!!!
This even terrifies the poor disciples!
What kind of person is this??
They'll find out!
On to Mark 1-4.
This was a crammed pack 4 chapters. There is no way to touch on all of it and not be long winded. I am trying to make these shorter (ha ha!).
What a scary time period. That was one thing that jumped out at me. First of all, politically it was a mess. There was great fear of the Romans and the Jewish leaders. Then there is this weird guy preaching in the wilderness. He's like no one they've met before.. a wild man who is preaching "Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" The men probably think this is great... no TV remember? This is high entertainment! But this is really kinda weird. Then this other guy shows up, gets baptized and Heaven makes itself known. Ever wonder what the voice of God sounds like? The VOICE OF GOD... SPEAKS!!
This is not normal.
This is kinda weird and scary... and cool.
Is it any wonder that Peter, Andrew, James and John took off from their nets when Jesus called them?? How could they not know what happened out in the wilderness. Most likely they were even there to see it. GOD said this was His son!!!
I'd jump and run too. I'd probably be a little freaked out, while being amazingly honored that He would choose me to go with Him!!
Here's another weird thing... He casts demons out of people and they leave with a shriek. Again, would you be scared?? I would. I think its amazing that demon possession seemed to be so normal. Is it normal now and we just don't recognize it?
Jesus job was to go around and preach to the villagers. I wonder if He was mentally preparing Himself for that guy... y'know, the one with leprosy... the one that didn't obey as well as the departing demons did. Jesus said go, get cleansed at the temple and DON'T MENTION THIS HEALING THING TO ANYONE!!! Its ok to use caps and !!!'s because Jesus spoke strongly to this particular gentleman who promptly disobeyed and Jesus life was changed forever. No more easy travel and quiet visiting. Now He was a travelling sideshow!
There were crowds everywhere!! He was able to get away early in the morning to pray. It must have been really early. Remember, there was no TV, theater, hockey games, etc... to entertain these people. They came in huge crowds to check out this novelty, this faith healer.
The Jewish leaders were getting antsy. People now wanted Jesus opinion instead of theirs. Many were there for the show, a good many were there as seekers of the truth. God had been silent for hundreds of years!! How terribly exciting that God was on the move again!!
Gotta love the family, they thought He was bonkers. The Jesus they grew up with did NOT heal and perform miracles and speak to multitudes of people. He was a quiet carpenter who they thought was delusional and they were coming to take the dear boy home!
Meanwhile, the crowds were getting so big Jesus had to speak from a boat. I always wondered at this until it dawned on me this week... there were no microphones... just one man and a big crowd! Without an amphitheater the best way to speak to a crowd was over some water. If you've ever been near the water, you'll know how well sound travels over water!! There are a lotta maritimers here... even Charlotte County ones!! who would get this concept! Jesus on a boat, crowd along the shore... He talks, they can all listen... brilliant!
What a good job to grab the guys with the boats. They either have 'em or know everyone with one around the Sea of Galilee.
I missed one of these parables. I don't reacall ever reading the Parable of the Growing Seed. It never clicked I guess. Seeds that we sow for Christ, whether we are there to take care of them or not, have a habit of sprouting. The kingdom of Heaven will advance regardless of us. Little seeds grow, sprout and are ready for the harvest and we don't know how!! We don't need to know, God knows. We cannot make seeds grow and sprout. God can.
I have heard that the only thing that matters is bringing souls to the Lord. I disagree. The only thing that matters is that we are faithful to sow the seed. We may never know what happens to it. We may never see any harvest for any seeds we sow, and feel like we have failed the Lord. I've heard of missionaries going 25, 30 years and never seeing a convert. Did they fail? NO
They sowed the seed. The harvest is up to the Lord.
I love the boat story. Jesus is trying to take a nap. The storm acted like my kids when I try to take a nap... pestered the Lord until He woke up! "Quiet, be still!!" He says, just like its my naughty kids but unlike my kids the storm obeys immediately!!!
This even terrifies the poor disciples!
What kind of person is this??
They'll find out!
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Book Review -- Psalm 119
This was a little different than the last few books. The theme of the book was pretty consistent with subtle variations in each stanza.
This is the story of how loving God's word and obeying it changes a sinful man into a confident, strong and wise man of God.
It made me realize (as I do every time I read this, one of my fave chapters) how little I really love God's word. Do I pant after it?? Faint in my bones for it??? Seep myself in it morning, noon, and in the middle of the night? Is it the first thing I reach for in the morning? The last thought of my mind before I sleep?? Basically, is this my addiction? My strength? My everything? Nope.
I like God's word. Enjoy it. Need it. Know it's the basis for my belief, my salvation. But do I love it? Do I want to be with it more... even as much as... my husband, kids, housework, IKEA catalog, my blog, etc??
Why is my life not victorious like King Davids??? I don't LOVE God's word.
My love for God is love for a father.
For Christ, He is my everything.
This is His love letter to me.
What will happen in my life WHEN (not if) I love this book the way King David did??
Here are some promises..
I'll be blameless v1&2 "Blessed are they whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the
law of the Lord. Blessed are they who keep his statutes, and seek Him
with all their heart."
Not part of their heart. Not half heartedly, whole heartedly. Not because I have to
seek Him, because it is my hearts desire.
I'll not be put to shame v5&6 "Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying you decrees! Then
I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands."
When I consider God's word and where my life should be, I am put to shame. I'm not
blameless.
I'll be pure vs 9 "How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word."
Here is hope. I can keep my way pure. I can choose to be proactive today. I can be
more faithful in reading, faithful in prayer. Past mistakes do not need to mold my
future.
I can keep from sinning vs 11 "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might no sin against
you."
I need to memorize God's word. This is something I used to do a lot of, but not so
much anymore. Even if I'm learning the AWANA verses with my kids, that's some-
thing. That will help to keep me from sinning. Wow!
There will be strength in my sorrow vs 12 "My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me
according to your word."
There have been many times when this has proved to be true. In the times of my
deepest sorrow, God has been my strength; so much so that its almost difficult to
readjust to my regular world where that extra strength is not needed. I love the
'according to your word' parts. David knows what is in God's word and is claiming
promises he knows are his. When my soul is weary, God will strengthen me. I need
to know God's word, so I can claim these promises.
I can choose vs 30 "I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws."
This is the one thing I can do that really can please God. I can choose the way of truth.
This is following Christ who is the truth. I can read his precepts, accept them as truth
and be obedient.
He sets my heart free vs32 "I run in the paths of your commands, for you have set my heart
free."
I love this one. When I run, not hesitate, in way God commands He sets my heart free!
Not just my spirit, my heart!! I can live in freedom without feeling like I am missing
out, not with depression or in bondage to sin... truely free!! I need to know His word to
be able to obey and then I'm FREE!!
Freedom again vs 45 "I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts."
I will have comfort vs 52 "I remember your ancient laws, O Lord, and I find comfort in them."
I can find delight even when I am slandered against vs 69-71 "Though the arrogant have
smeared me with lies, I keep your precepts with all my heart. Their
hearts are callous and unfeeling, but I delight in your law. It was good
for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees."
I've been in the position of being slandered before... a few times... smeared with lies is
just the right way to say it. Those sticky lies that no matter how hard you try to wash
off, just seem to spread and spread. If I focus on those lies I AM MISERABLE. This
is experience talking. I have been quite miserable for the last couple months because
of this very thing. It has taken my focus off the word, even as I am reading the Bible
my focus has wandered to "Why are they doing this to me?" If I am delighting in
God's word the slander won't be important. I want to say it is good for me to be
afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.
I will find comraderie with God's people. vs 74 May those who fear you rejoice when they see
me, for I have put my hope in your word."
I want to rejoice when I see others who put their hope in God's word too. So many
christians put most of their hope in themselves, my hearts desire is to know more of
those who truely trust the Lord... as theirs is to find like minded folks as well.
I will be able to fully trust who God is vs 89&90 "Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm
in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations."
God is still the same faithful God that He was in King David's day. His word is eternal.
It reminds me of the commercial for Peanuts videos "Their for me, for me, for me."
Through all generations means mine too!! Eternal encompasses THIS time.
I will be preserved in this life. vs 93 "I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have
preserved my life."
I counted. This little phrase "preserved my life" (once sustained my life) is mentioned
12 times in this chapter. I've heard that if its mentioned 7 or 12 times, take notice. Its
really important. I need to remember that my life is absolutely preserved when I am
living in obedience to God's word until God in His perfect timing takes me home.
There is nothing on earth that can change that... note Job for instance. I can live in
freedom and not in fear, because God is preserving my life. There was a well loved
preacher here in these parts who served the Lord with all his heart, until he started
living a life of sexual sin. He thought he was "above the law" and stayed in his pulpit
even though other men of God warned him not to trifle with God. He refused to either
change his lifestyle or leave the pulpit. The result? A "freak" accident that killed him
instantly. This is serious stuff folks.
I will have wisdom and understanding vs 98&100 "Your commands make me wiser than my
enemies.... I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your
precepts."
God will direct my life vs 105 "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path."
I will have a refuge vs 114 "You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your
word."
I will gain understanding vs 130 "The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding
to the simple."
This is confidence vs 140 "Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them." With the practice of reading, testing and proving God's word comes the confidence that this really is God speaking through the written word. This isn't just a book, or just a special book, this is the actual word of the Holy Almighty God written to me. To give my life direction, to give me hope and a promise of a future. I need to eat it up. To crave it, long for it with all my being. Not to read as a duty because its the right thing to do. To join with David as he rises before dawn and through the watches of the night to meditate on God's promises.
To close (yes its finally over) I want this to be my heart song vs 171 "May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees."
I want the overflow. I want God's praises to spill out all over my life as I get closer to God as He teaches me. I want my family first to see a difference. I want God to look so good to others they are asking me if I know Him and how they can too.
First I need to learn to love His word.
Thankfully the Lord can teach me how.
This is the story of how loving God's word and obeying it changes a sinful man into a confident, strong and wise man of God.
It made me realize (as I do every time I read this, one of my fave chapters) how little I really love God's word. Do I pant after it?? Faint in my bones for it??? Seep myself in it morning, noon, and in the middle of the night? Is it the first thing I reach for in the morning? The last thought of my mind before I sleep?? Basically, is this my addiction? My strength? My everything? Nope.
I like God's word. Enjoy it. Need it. Know it's the basis for my belief, my salvation. But do I love it? Do I want to be with it more... even as much as... my husband, kids, housework, IKEA catalog, my blog, etc??
Why is my life not victorious like King Davids??? I don't LOVE God's word.
My love for God is love for a father.
For Christ, He is my everything.
This is His love letter to me.
What will happen in my life WHEN (not if) I love this book the way King David did??
Here are some promises..
I'll be blameless v1&2 "Blessed are they whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the
law of the Lord. Blessed are they who keep his statutes, and seek Him
with all their heart."
Not part of their heart. Not half heartedly, whole heartedly. Not because I have to
seek Him, because it is my hearts desire.
I'll not be put to shame v5&6 "Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying you decrees! Then
I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands."
When I consider God's word and where my life should be, I am put to shame. I'm not
blameless.
I'll be pure vs 9 "How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word."
Here is hope. I can keep my way pure. I can choose to be proactive today. I can be
more faithful in reading, faithful in prayer. Past mistakes do not need to mold my
future.
I can keep from sinning vs 11 "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might no sin against
you."
I need to memorize God's word. This is something I used to do a lot of, but not so
much anymore. Even if I'm learning the AWANA verses with my kids, that's some-
thing. That will help to keep me from sinning. Wow!
There will be strength in my sorrow vs 12 "My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me
according to your word."
There have been many times when this has proved to be true. In the times of my
deepest sorrow, God has been my strength; so much so that its almost difficult to
readjust to my regular world where that extra strength is not needed. I love the
'according to your word' parts. David knows what is in God's word and is claiming
promises he knows are his. When my soul is weary, God will strengthen me. I need
to know God's word, so I can claim these promises.
I can choose vs 30 "I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws."
This is the one thing I can do that really can please God. I can choose the way of truth.
This is following Christ who is the truth. I can read his precepts, accept them as truth
and be obedient.
He sets my heart free vs32 "I run in the paths of your commands, for you have set my heart
free."
I love this one. When I run, not hesitate, in way God commands He sets my heart free!
Not just my spirit, my heart!! I can live in freedom without feeling like I am missing
out, not with depression or in bondage to sin... truely free!! I need to know His word to
be able to obey and then I'm FREE!!
Freedom again vs 45 "I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts."
I will have comfort vs 52 "I remember your ancient laws, O Lord, and I find comfort in them."
I can find delight even when I am slandered against vs 69-71 "Though the arrogant have
smeared me with lies, I keep your precepts with all my heart. Their
hearts are callous and unfeeling, but I delight in your law. It was good
for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees."
I've been in the position of being slandered before... a few times... smeared with lies is
just the right way to say it. Those sticky lies that no matter how hard you try to wash
off, just seem to spread and spread. If I focus on those lies I AM MISERABLE. This
is experience talking. I have been quite miserable for the last couple months because
of this very thing. It has taken my focus off the word, even as I am reading the Bible
my focus has wandered to "Why are they doing this to me?" If I am delighting in
God's word the slander won't be important. I want to say it is good for me to be
afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.
I will find comraderie with God's people. vs 74 May those who fear you rejoice when they see
me, for I have put my hope in your word."
I want to rejoice when I see others who put their hope in God's word too. So many
christians put most of their hope in themselves, my hearts desire is to know more of
those who truely trust the Lord... as theirs is to find like minded folks as well.
I will be able to fully trust who God is vs 89&90 "Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm
in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations."
God is still the same faithful God that He was in King David's day. His word is eternal.
It reminds me of the commercial for Peanuts videos "Their for me, for me, for me."
Through all generations means mine too!! Eternal encompasses THIS time.
I will be preserved in this life. vs 93 "I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have
preserved my life."
I counted. This little phrase "preserved my life" (once sustained my life) is mentioned
12 times in this chapter. I've heard that if its mentioned 7 or 12 times, take notice. Its
really important. I need to remember that my life is absolutely preserved when I am
living in obedience to God's word until God in His perfect timing takes me home.
There is nothing on earth that can change that... note Job for instance. I can live in
freedom and not in fear, because God is preserving my life. There was a well loved
preacher here in these parts who served the Lord with all his heart, until he started
living a life of sexual sin. He thought he was "above the law" and stayed in his pulpit
even though other men of God warned him not to trifle with God. He refused to either
change his lifestyle or leave the pulpit. The result? A "freak" accident that killed him
instantly. This is serious stuff folks.
I will have wisdom and understanding vs 98&100 "Your commands make me wiser than my
enemies.... I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your
precepts."
God will direct my life vs 105 "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path."
I will have a refuge vs 114 "You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your
word."
I will gain understanding vs 130 "The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding
to the simple."
This is confidence vs 140 "Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them." With the practice of reading, testing and proving God's word comes the confidence that this really is God speaking through the written word. This isn't just a book, or just a special book, this is the actual word of the Holy Almighty God written to me. To give my life direction, to give me hope and a promise of a future. I need to eat it up. To crave it, long for it with all my being. Not to read as a duty because its the right thing to do. To join with David as he rises before dawn and through the watches of the night to meditate on God's promises.
To close (yes its finally over) I want this to be my heart song vs 171 "May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees."
I want the overflow. I want God's praises to spill out all over my life as I get closer to God as He teaches me. I want my family first to see a difference. I want God to look so good to others they are asking me if I know Him and how they can too.
First I need to learn to love His word.
Thankfully the Lord can teach me how.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Getting back to normal... whatever that is
Just a thought... Putting titles to these ramblings is ridiculous. How do you title "I have nothing to say but I'm saying it anyway??"
Actually, that wasn't bad. Matt called tonight. He is in Toronto on his way home from Edmonton. He sounds happy and is glad he's coming home. The company manners for over 2 weeks are hard to maintain when you are ten.
Caitlyn went to youth group for the first time tonight. Dave was working late so I called a family from church that lives way out here in the boondocks with us. Their daughter wasn't going, but their son and his buddy were so Caitlyn got to go in with 2 boys. I'm not sure if that was a good thing or not. Certainly in a couple years she'd see it as a good thing, now its just embarrassing. She had a blast and they went to Tim Horton's afterwards. It was a good evening.
When Lana said they could drive her it was at 5:45 tonight. She mentioned that Cait would have time to have a bite to eat before she left, but we were done dinner. She actually wanted to know my secret. You'd have to live here to realize what a joke that is. This was the first time in about 3 weeks we ate supper before 7:30!!! When I'm sick in the morning the whole day gets put back a few hours. I wasn't sick today!!
In fact, when Cait left at 6:30 the dinner dishes were done and the kitchen, dining and living rooms were all clean. School work was even done to my satisfaction.
Unfortunately, Dave came home at 10:45 tonight sick and missed out on the fact that we actually had it all together today. Maybe next month we'll have another all together day.
I did have to cancel physio though because Jack wasn't up to snuff still. I'm not sure if he's sick or teething. Justin is teething, and boy can he yell!!
Dave has a rather important meeting in Saint John Friday. Hope he's well enough to go.
According to the spellcheck, I can't spell my own daughter's name.
Since I can spell everything else, I'm not worried.
Actually, that wasn't bad. Matt called tonight. He is in Toronto on his way home from Edmonton. He sounds happy and is glad he's coming home. The company manners for over 2 weeks are hard to maintain when you are ten.
Caitlyn went to youth group for the first time tonight. Dave was working late so I called a family from church that lives way out here in the boondocks with us. Their daughter wasn't going, but their son and his buddy were so Caitlyn got to go in with 2 boys. I'm not sure if that was a good thing or not. Certainly in a couple years she'd see it as a good thing, now its just embarrassing. She had a blast and they went to Tim Horton's afterwards. It was a good evening.
When Lana said they could drive her it was at 5:45 tonight. She mentioned that Cait would have time to have a bite to eat before she left, but we were done dinner. She actually wanted to know my secret. You'd have to live here to realize what a joke that is. This was the first time in about 3 weeks we ate supper before 7:30!!! When I'm sick in the morning the whole day gets put back a few hours. I wasn't sick today!!
In fact, when Cait left at 6:30 the dinner dishes were done and the kitchen, dining and living rooms were all clean. School work was even done to my satisfaction.
Unfortunately, Dave came home at 10:45 tonight sick and missed out on the fact that we actually had it all together today. Maybe next month we'll have another all together day.
I did have to cancel physio though because Jack wasn't up to snuff still. I'm not sure if he's sick or teething. Justin is teething, and boy can he yell!!
Dave has a rather important meeting in Saint John Friday. Hope he's well enough to go.
According to the spellcheck, I can't spell my own daughter's name.
Since I can spell everything else, I'm not worried.
Another Day in the Life
Yesterday morning started "officially" with the alarm clock going off and Justin throwing up all over my bed and pillow. I had just thought the night before that my laundry was all caught up, folded put away and there wouldn't even be enough to fill a load yesterday. That idea was soon squashed. Amazingly, I couldn't find the time in the morning to change those sheets and my room was getting really stinky.... so were the babies. Justin was changed and then I tossed Jack up on the bottom of my bed that was still clean and out squished.. you know.. from Jack's diaper on my blankets that escaped the baby puke. This time I started the laundry going and had major little boy clean up as well.
We were still happy and doing well. It seemed that we might have been doing well in the school dept too. And then, as I was starting supper, late because I got on this thing.. another story.. I realized it was Tuesday... PHYSIO NIGHT!!! AAGGHH!!!
We all got ready and dashed out the door, drove down the road, realized we forgot my bank card which should have been in my wallet, drove home again, got the card, had to get gas and were 15 minutes late for physio... just to find...
Physio is Wednesday night this week.
Now we were all the way in town so we went to the grocery store. The big kids went to the dollar store to pick out a treat while I did groceries with only Justin and Jack. It was actually very enjoyable. We were quite relaxed and were even able to help out an elderly lady pick out hot chocolate for her grandkids. She thought picking up hot chocolate would be no problem at all until she saw the 40 or so different kinds at the superstore. We prefer the no name (bulk size, of course) brand as it has the best flavour and is definitely the best priced. Then we can afford marshmallows too! We saw her again in the marshmallow aisle. She was so thankful she ran into us as she had promised them marshmallows and forgot. Our mission to help one person was accomplished!!
The big kids met us as we were going through the checkout.. perfect timing and off we went home.
As we drove in the driveway with 2 sleeping babies, I knew I didn't have what it took to haul in groceries and babies, so made a deal with the kids. They could eat KD for supper after they brought EVERYTHING in from the van. I would bring in the babies. Jack is too heavy when he is asleep, but in he came and I plopped him on the couch admiring how sweet he looks when he is conked out. Justin is so much lighter after Jack!! He woke up when I opened his door and giggled and giggled when I took him out. Tonight will be soooo much better than this morning I thought... until I walked back in the door.
Jack is now vomiting on the floor... all over his coat and everyones boots.
Caitlyn decided if they were having KD, she would most likely have to make it, thankfully! By the time the KD was DONE Jack had been cleaned up twice. I think everything he vomited on was clean. I had remade my bed as I was putting through my 4th load of laundry on my laundry free day. Justin now decides to hurl as well. My house stinks, I stink, the boys are semi-stinky and Caitlyn says "Would you like your dinner now, or do you think you are going to throw up too??"
Did I mention morning sickness is back? The morning was a treat to get through, but afternoon and evening I'm fine. Good thing!
The kids got to bed after 10. They thought this was great. Dave called and still had more work to do and wasn't leaving quite yet. The guy should get a medal for all he has been doing for work this year!
I lay down with Justin and asked Caitlyn to remind Dad to bring in wood when he got home and promptly fell asleep with the baby.
This left Caitlyn and Connor still up with NO MOM!! They slept in the living room last night.
Today is going to be better.
No one threw up ... not even me.
We have plenty of groceries.
I know I have physio tonight and can plan accordingly.
I have no laundry to do today!!
We were still happy and doing well. It seemed that we might have been doing well in the school dept too. And then, as I was starting supper, late because I got on this thing.. another story.. I realized it was Tuesday... PHYSIO NIGHT!!! AAGGHH!!!
We all got ready and dashed out the door, drove down the road, realized we forgot my bank card which should have been in my wallet, drove home again, got the card, had to get gas and were 15 minutes late for physio... just to find...
Physio is Wednesday night this week.
Now we were all the way in town so we went to the grocery store. The big kids went to the dollar store to pick out a treat while I did groceries with only Justin and Jack. It was actually very enjoyable. We were quite relaxed and were even able to help out an elderly lady pick out hot chocolate for her grandkids. She thought picking up hot chocolate would be no problem at all until she saw the 40 or so different kinds at the superstore. We prefer the no name (bulk size, of course) brand as it has the best flavour and is definitely the best priced. Then we can afford marshmallows too! We saw her again in the marshmallow aisle. She was so thankful she ran into us as she had promised them marshmallows and forgot. Our mission to help one person was accomplished!!
The big kids met us as we were going through the checkout.. perfect timing and off we went home.
As we drove in the driveway with 2 sleeping babies, I knew I didn't have what it took to haul in groceries and babies, so made a deal with the kids. They could eat KD for supper after they brought EVERYTHING in from the van. I would bring in the babies. Jack is too heavy when he is asleep, but in he came and I plopped him on the couch admiring how sweet he looks when he is conked out. Justin is so much lighter after Jack!! He woke up when I opened his door and giggled and giggled when I took him out. Tonight will be soooo much better than this morning I thought... until I walked back in the door.
Jack is now vomiting on the floor... all over his coat and everyones boots.
Caitlyn decided if they were having KD, she would most likely have to make it, thankfully! By the time the KD was DONE Jack had been cleaned up twice. I think everything he vomited on was clean. I had remade my bed as I was putting through my 4th load of laundry on my laundry free day. Justin now decides to hurl as well. My house stinks, I stink, the boys are semi-stinky and Caitlyn says "Would you like your dinner now, or do you think you are going to throw up too??"
Did I mention morning sickness is back? The morning was a treat to get through, but afternoon and evening I'm fine. Good thing!
The kids got to bed after 10. They thought this was great. Dave called and still had more work to do and wasn't leaving quite yet. The guy should get a medal for all he has been doing for work this year!
I lay down with Justin and asked Caitlyn to remind Dad to bring in wood when he got home and promptly fell asleep with the baby.
This left Caitlyn and Connor still up with NO MOM!! They slept in the living room last night.
Today is going to be better.
No one threw up ... not even me.
We have plenty of groceries.
I know I have physio tonight and can plan accordingly.
I have no laundry to do today!!
Monday, February 19, 2007
Blogger update
I have updated to the new blogger. I think it actually is easier than the old one. The spell check works!! It didn't before. That should clean up some of the mistakes from my end! I also like my new look. This layout looks more like me. I don't know what my girls will think as they liked the pink!! Oh well, they can start their own blogs if they want. Everything switched over perfectly and I'm as happy as a clam in high tide. If you don't understand the last statement your aren't a real maritimer!!
Sunday, February 18, 2007
First Wesleyan.. 2nd week
We went back to 1st Wesleyan again. We really enjoyed hearing the pastor speak this week. He spoke straight from the heart and we were both encouraged and challenged. Molly went to her Sunday School, er foundation building class no problem this week, but balked at Junior Church. She said she'd go to that next week. Jack knew right where to go and his teacher told me he was the perfect child.... happy, smiley, quiet, participated in everything when he was supposed to... Jack's my boy!! He loves it there. Justin is not so sure. He cried for a bit. Connor and Courtney know what to do and where to go... no probs. Caitlyn is a little stressed that we are going there and not Kingsley where her buddy Daniella is.
Soooo... We took Daniella with us tonight. There is a youth service which they went to, Connor and Courtney spent time in the gym with Pastor Karl and Dave and I went to the adult small group study. It was a great evening.
Afterwards we met a couple and found out she is Dad's first cousin! That was fun. We now have "kin" at the church. That sure makes a person feel at home. Hope's dad was Dad's fave uncle.
Just as we were about to leave I asked Caitlyn to hold Justin so I could put on my coat. She was just holding him when he started throwing up all over the place. Cait was not impressed. This was not how she wanted the kids to think of her on her first night at the youth group. Oh well, at least they won't forget her!!! There was another Caitlyn who attended the youth service for the first time and she and my Caitlyn hit it off. Daniella wants to go back. All in all it was a good day!!!
We still haven't heard from Pastor Chris from Kingsley. I think Dave will have to email him.
Soooo... We took Daniella with us tonight. There is a youth service which they went to, Connor and Courtney spent time in the gym with Pastor Karl and Dave and I went to the adult small group study. It was a great evening.
Afterwards we met a couple and found out she is Dad's first cousin! That was fun. We now have "kin" at the church. That sure makes a person feel at home. Hope's dad was Dad's fave uncle.
Just as we were about to leave I asked Caitlyn to hold Justin so I could put on my coat. She was just holding him when he started throwing up all over the place. Cait was not impressed. This was not how she wanted the kids to think of her on her first night at the youth group. Oh well, at least they won't forget her!!! There was another Caitlyn who attended the youth service for the first time and she and my Caitlyn hit it off. Daniella wants to go back. All in all it was a good day!!!
We still haven't heard from Pastor Chris from Kingsley. I think Dave will have to email him.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
BRF Ephesians.... late again!
Last night, as I waited my turn for the computer I was going over Ephesians again and praying on what to say in my review... and fell asleep. I think God wants me fully alert for this one!
I love the book of Ephesians. Whenever I am overwhelmed, or feeling like I'm just not making it as a real follower of Christ, whenever I don't know what else to read... I turn to Ephesians. The first 2 chapters are like my ultimate comfort food. No matter how I see myself, no matter how anyone else sees me... He chose ME before the beginning of the world, that I should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined me to adoption as a daughter by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory ofHis grace, by which he made me accepted in the Beloved.
Why on earth should anything else matter? When I know... not just in my head but in my spirit... that this is true how can I be upset about anything else? I obviously need to read this more. When my life is off kilter and I'm grumpy and worried and stressed and sinful (most days) , I need to open my Bible and read this. I think I should cross stitch a sampler of it! Its on my to do list now.
I am so glad Paul took the time to pray for spiritual wisdom for the Ephesians; it reminds me to do that for myself, family and friends. I love praying scripture for people, but its amazing how far Satan goes to stop me from doing that. I'm taking a short break right now to pray this prayer for my BRF buddies. Back in a few........
I'm back.. did you notice this? The same power with which He raised Christ from the dead is now directed toward us!! This is an exceeding great WORKING power! It gives me such a thrill (that sounded like my mom, but its the right word!!) to know that this amazing power is now working to to change me into the likeness of Christ.
The language in ch 2 continues to amaze me... I'm gonna paraphrase again, get ready!
But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loves me, even when I was dead in trespasses, made me alive together with Christ (by grace I have been saved), and raised me up together, and made me sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness towards me in Christ Jesus. For by grace I have been saved through faith, and that not of myself; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest I should boast. For I am His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that I should walk in them.
This is such a personal passage. Its all about Christ and what He has done and I get all the benefits of His amazing love and grace. The NIV uses the word "lavished"... He is lavishing upon me the completeness of His love, mercy and grace, not because I deserve it but just because He loves me. This is the only too good to be true issue that is actually true.
Now we see the great mystery... as a gentile, I am allowed into the Holy of holies... the very presence of God, because His son became the propitiation for my sin. I can now be a partaker of His promise in Christ.
Here is another verse I love... personalized again..
Ch 3 vs 14-20
For this reason I (Paul) bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jusus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant Martha, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner being, that Christ may dwell in her heart through faith; that Martha, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height -- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that she may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be the glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen
I'm now ready for the book to be over... but its not. Now that I know what it is that Christ has done for me, and how He loves me, and will forever its time to know what I am to DO.
I heard on the radio a week or 2 ago... Receiving eternal life is free, following Christ costs something.
I could just stop reading the book and everything it has said so far will remain true. Nothing that I do or don't do will negate what Christ has done for me. But how can I not want to obey Him?! I agree with what Charmin said a few weeks ago; I love order. I love boundaries. I love knowing what to do, where to go, how to act, what to say, etc...
Chapters 4-6 go from the doctrinal to the practical. Once we "get it" we are to start "living it" in every area of our lives... in our church, our marriage, our place of employment. Quite simply we should be living out our salvation in every area of our life. I may be just a little part of a big body, but I should be doing my utmost to be living out this life so that my part is a healthy part. The first thing I should be focusing on is not rushing out to do, do, do.. but to put on the new man.. to be an imitator of God, as dear children. How can I imitate what I do not know? I need to know God more, to study His word, to speak to Him constantly and to imitate Him. And when I forget to focus on Him, I don't imitate Him. I forget what He looks like so quickly. When my kids look at me, do they see Christ? Certainly not as they should.
Am I longsuffering, kind, full of love, mercy and truth? Am I wise, compassionate and forgiving?
Or am I crabby, nitpicky and impatient?
Is my aroma sweet smelling?? Or does my attitude stink?
Do I only speak what is good for necessary edification or do my words hurt and tear down?
I'm stopping now to remember that God created me for His good pleasure and the exceeding great power that raised Christ from the dead is working in me to make me like His son, because on my own power I'm all the negatives that are up in the previous paragraph. In His power I can be all the good. How??
Its quite simple. I need to be prepared.... armed even. I just can't go around with the sword of the spirit waving it around like a maniac. I need to get ready. I need to gird myself with truth, wear the breastplate of righteousness (mine is as filthy rags, Christ's righteousness is what I need to hide behind), my feet need to be shod with the gospel of the gospel of peace (the gospel is the base of everything I do). I need to not only have a shield of faith, but know how to use it. Unused faith makes us weak and defenceless. The helmet of Salvation protects my mind and the proper use of the sword of the spirit with slay the enemy. Its not enough to know that I have all this armour, if I don't put it on I am defenceless. I also need to pray, pray and keep praying. I need to ask God how to wear my armour correctly. I need to pray for strength for my brothers and sisters regularly. I need to pray for boldness.
The Christian life is not a picnic, its a battlefield. We need to train our children to fight, not just play around with their armour. There are standards we need to live out in our love for Christ. How can we do less? Without what He has done I am just another lost soul without hope, living in darkness.
This has been very long. Sorry. I needed to verbalize it all for me... so I will remember.
Now I need to go check the amazing job my kids did cleaning out the woodstove.
Can't wait to read everyone else's blog... after I finish my chores!!
I love the book of Ephesians. Whenever I am overwhelmed, or feeling like I'm just not making it as a real follower of Christ, whenever I don't know what else to read... I turn to Ephesians. The first 2 chapters are like my ultimate comfort food. No matter how I see myself, no matter how anyone else sees me... He chose ME before the beginning of the world, that I should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined me to adoption as a daughter by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory ofHis grace, by which he made me accepted in the Beloved.
Why on earth should anything else matter? When I know... not just in my head but in my spirit... that this is true how can I be upset about anything else? I obviously need to read this more. When my life is off kilter and I'm grumpy and worried and stressed and sinful (most days) , I need to open my Bible and read this. I think I should cross stitch a sampler of it! Its on my to do list now.
I am so glad Paul took the time to pray for spiritual wisdom for the Ephesians; it reminds me to do that for myself, family and friends. I love praying scripture for people, but its amazing how far Satan goes to stop me from doing that. I'm taking a short break right now to pray this prayer for my BRF buddies. Back in a few........
I'm back.. did you notice this? The same power with which He raised Christ from the dead is now directed toward us!! This is an exceeding great WORKING power! It gives me such a thrill (that sounded like my mom, but its the right word!!) to know that this amazing power is now working to to change me into the likeness of Christ.
The language in ch 2 continues to amaze me... I'm gonna paraphrase again, get ready!
But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loves me, even when I was dead in trespasses, made me alive together with Christ (by grace I have been saved), and raised me up together, and made me sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness towards me in Christ Jesus. For by grace I have been saved through faith, and that not of myself; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest I should boast. For I am His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that I should walk in them.
This is such a personal passage. Its all about Christ and what He has done and I get all the benefits of His amazing love and grace. The NIV uses the word "lavished"... He is lavishing upon me the completeness of His love, mercy and grace, not because I deserve it but just because He loves me. This is the only too good to be true issue that is actually true.
Now we see the great mystery... as a gentile, I am allowed into the Holy of holies... the very presence of God, because His son became the propitiation for my sin. I can now be a partaker of His promise in Christ.
Here is another verse I love... personalized again..
Ch 3 vs 14-20
For this reason I (Paul) bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jusus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant Martha, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner being, that Christ may dwell in her heart through faith; that Martha, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height -- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that she may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be the glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen
I'm now ready for the book to be over... but its not. Now that I know what it is that Christ has done for me, and how He loves me, and will forever its time to know what I am to DO.
I heard on the radio a week or 2 ago... Receiving eternal life is free, following Christ costs something.
I could just stop reading the book and everything it has said so far will remain true. Nothing that I do or don't do will negate what Christ has done for me. But how can I not want to obey Him?! I agree with what Charmin said a few weeks ago; I love order. I love boundaries. I love knowing what to do, where to go, how to act, what to say, etc...
Chapters 4-6 go from the doctrinal to the practical. Once we "get it" we are to start "living it" in every area of our lives... in our church, our marriage, our place of employment. Quite simply we should be living out our salvation in every area of our life. I may be just a little part of a big body, but I should be doing my utmost to be living out this life so that my part is a healthy part. The first thing I should be focusing on is not rushing out to do, do, do.. but to put on the new man.. to be an imitator of God, as dear children. How can I imitate what I do not know? I need to know God more, to study His word, to speak to Him constantly and to imitate Him. And when I forget to focus on Him, I don't imitate Him. I forget what He looks like so quickly. When my kids look at me, do they see Christ? Certainly not as they should.
Am I longsuffering, kind, full of love, mercy and truth? Am I wise, compassionate and forgiving?
Or am I crabby, nitpicky and impatient?
Is my aroma sweet smelling?? Or does my attitude stink?
Do I only speak what is good for necessary edification or do my words hurt and tear down?
I'm stopping now to remember that God created me for His good pleasure and the exceeding great power that raised Christ from the dead is working in me to make me like His son, because on my own power I'm all the negatives that are up in the previous paragraph. In His power I can be all the good. How??
Its quite simple. I need to be prepared.... armed even. I just can't go around with the sword of the spirit waving it around like a maniac. I need to get ready. I need to gird myself with truth, wear the breastplate of righteousness (mine is as filthy rags, Christ's righteousness is what I need to hide behind), my feet need to be shod with the gospel of the gospel of peace (the gospel is the base of everything I do). I need to not only have a shield of faith, but know how to use it. Unused faith makes us weak and defenceless. The helmet of Salvation protects my mind and the proper use of the sword of the spirit with slay the enemy. Its not enough to know that I have all this armour, if I don't put it on I am defenceless. I also need to pray, pray and keep praying. I need to ask God how to wear my armour correctly. I need to pray for strength for my brothers and sisters regularly. I need to pray for boldness.
The Christian life is not a picnic, its a battlefield. We need to train our children to fight, not just play around with their armour. There are standards we need to live out in our love for Christ. How can we do less? Without what He has done I am just another lost soul without hope, living in darkness.
This has been very long. Sorry. I needed to verbalize it all for me... so I will remember.
Now I need to go check the amazing job my kids did cleaning out the woodstove.
Can't wait to read everyone else's blog... after I finish my chores!!
Sunday, February 11, 2007
First Wesleyan
We are looking for a new church. I hate to be so blunt, but there you have it. Today we attended First Wesleyan. Yes, I've always been Baptist, but obviously aren't terribly thrilled with what we've been finding in Baptist circles.
The kids "foundation building" classes were great. I know the lady who has Caitlyn's class and she is amazing, so godly and wise. I couldn't pick a better teacher for her. Dave's friend/coworker does the Jr church and that was great too.
The music was terrific. There were instruments (sweet trumpet Ang... the bongos were a nice touch!!) The worship leader, Mark, is a friend of ours and he did an incredible job. The choir was wonderful. Mark was dancing up a storm there in the back row of the choir which Caitlyn thought was funny!! The music was all very worshipful and varied.
It was kind of a weird day to visit since they had a missionary speaker... none like I had ever heard though. She has the ear of the likes of Bill Gates and Bill Clinton and can easily articulate why the church of commonfolk can do more in the world than all their professionals. Its not the amazing abilities of the people to deliver hope, education and the gospel; its the power of God working through these common people that is making the difference. They have to agree with her, even though they don't really get it. She was an amazing speaker.
At the end of the service Pastor Mark, the worship pastor, our friend, got up and read his resignation... was it because he saw US there? It was just a weird day to be there. So... we'll go again next week when it should be a normal week.
Pastor Karl, the Senior Pastor was very approachable. He wants to meet with Dave soon for coffee. I think we'll wait on that until we have a chance to speak with Pastor Chris at Kingsley. That way we'll know more of where we are headed.
There were quite a few people there that we knew... the christian community isn't that large here in NB... and we did enjoy the service. A few questions arose, but that is what coffee with Pastor Karl is for, right??
On the whole, so glad we went! They are starting up a new Beth Moore Bible Study next week. Now to get Caitlyn to want to go to the youth service next Sunday Night!! She really wants to go but is extremely nervous about approaching a large group of young people on her own... wonder why? Maybe I'll see if she can take a friend with her. That should help.
The kids "foundation building" classes were great. I know the lady who has Caitlyn's class and she is amazing, so godly and wise. I couldn't pick a better teacher for her. Dave's friend/coworker does the Jr church and that was great too.
The music was terrific. There were instruments (sweet trumpet Ang... the bongos were a nice touch!!) The worship leader, Mark, is a friend of ours and he did an incredible job. The choir was wonderful. Mark was dancing up a storm there in the back row of the choir which Caitlyn thought was funny!! The music was all very worshipful and varied.
It was kind of a weird day to visit since they had a missionary speaker... none like I had ever heard though. She has the ear of the likes of Bill Gates and Bill Clinton and can easily articulate why the church of commonfolk can do more in the world than all their professionals. Its not the amazing abilities of the people to deliver hope, education and the gospel; its the power of God working through these common people that is making the difference. They have to agree with her, even though they don't really get it. She was an amazing speaker.
At the end of the service Pastor Mark, the worship pastor, our friend, got up and read his resignation... was it because he saw US there? It was just a weird day to be there. So... we'll go again next week when it should be a normal week.
Pastor Karl, the Senior Pastor was very approachable. He wants to meet with Dave soon for coffee. I think we'll wait on that until we have a chance to speak with Pastor Chris at Kingsley. That way we'll know more of where we are headed.
There were quite a few people there that we knew... the christian community isn't that large here in NB... and we did enjoy the service. A few questions arose, but that is what coffee with Pastor Karl is for, right??
On the whole, so glad we went! They are starting up a new Beth Moore Bible Study next week. Now to get Caitlyn to want to go to the youth service next Sunday Night!! She really wants to go but is extremely nervous about approaching a large group of young people on her own... wonder why? Maybe I'll see if she can take a friend with her. That should help.
Aliant slowing me down
Its been a little frustrating trying to use the ol' computer lately. The speed has been sloooow. We've been getting and average of 80kbs/sec... so we called the trusty service provider (ha ha) because we should be getting upwards of 700 kbs/sec.
Friday our speed was just cruising at 150 and that was great for us lately... then the tech came, "fixed" the problem and told me he doubled the speed. I was so excited!! The speed changed all right. It dropped down to 27.5. When you get the decimal figure you know its slow.
I called Aliant, yes Aliant... I have mentioned them by name Ha Ha!!! ... to complain. I was very nice, just couldn't see how 150 doubled came to 28 (I'll even round up)... must be the new math. This guy fixed the problem for me and now we average 4 kbs/sec and most of the time I can't pull up the page I want. I'm almost afraid to ask for MORE help, but the technician is coming back tomorrow.
Just thought y'all might want to know.
Friday our speed was just cruising at 150 and that was great for us lately... then the tech came, "fixed" the problem and told me he doubled the speed. I was so excited!! The speed changed all right. It dropped down to 27.5. When you get the decimal figure you know its slow.
I called Aliant, yes Aliant... I have mentioned them by name Ha Ha!!! ... to complain. I was very nice, just couldn't see how 150 doubled came to 28 (I'll even round up)... must be the new math. This guy fixed the problem for me and now we average 4 kbs/sec and most of the time I can't pull up the page I want. I'm almost afraid to ask for MORE help, but the technician is coming back tomorrow.
Just thought y'all might want to know.
Friday, February 09, 2007
BRF -- Haggai
I must admit I had a problem with Haggai. I was still regrouping after the Timothys. I haven't felt the edge of the sword of the spirit doing its surgical work like those weeks in a long, long time. It feels awful to have to really humble yourself and learn and grow and pray and weep and pray some more. It was almost more than I could stand. "Life" got tough... from more than one direction. And God was so, so, so good... and Dave was good too. My poor family most likely thought Mom was losing it for sure. And then,
Haggai
Sat, Sun, Mon, Tues... this book makes no sense. I don't see anything. BRF is gonna be real humiliating because I don't get it. Can we go back to the New Testament???
Then Wednesday.
I opened up the Word, looked at this book and prayed. Ever have a time when you know you aren't the one praying? Its your voice, your brain but its the mind of the Spirit of God. Those times remind me that He really is indwelling me and He is giving me the blessing of praying what I can't and so desperately want to. This is only the 4th time this has ever happened to me. It makes me crave God. Then He sat with me and said He'd help me this time to understand some.. not all. I love Haggai. Its so simple.
When God is allowed into the study of His word, its so simple. When He is allowed to teach its easy. When I study with my own wisdom its meaningless and confusing.
The first chapter was enough to finish me. I had just been thinking (This is awful I know) that if we skimped on our tithe than maybe we could do a few things around the house that need to be done. This thought has been recurring for the past few weeks. At first I dismissed it, then I dwelt on it, then... someone decided that I needed to read Haggai chapter one. I hope y'all feel sorry for me as I had to face another major conviction here!!
vs 3 "Then the word of the Lord came by Haggai the prophet, saying, "Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins?" The Israelites put their own homes before the Lord's. Their priorities were completely off. They were taking the world's advice.... The Lord will understand why you need to have your nice things first... He has heaven, this is all you have... keep the nicest home you can for your family... that's your ministry so put your tithe there...
That is NOT God's plan. God is always to be first. That is not selfish on His part... He is caring for us. The only way for our homes to be havens for our family is to make sure that He is first in our lives. "But seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you."
Thankfully the Israelites recognized the truth when they heard it and with their Governor Zerubbabel leading them they hustled to get the temple finished. I love it when they actually obey!!! It gives me hope that I can also learn, repent, obey and be blessed!
Don't you just love the carefully consider verses. I stopped and made sure I considered these carefully. Ch 1 vs 5, vs 7, ch 2 vs 15, vs 18-19. Why do I feel sometimes like we work and work and everything just disappears into thin air? Where does the money go? We don't buy anything and yet it disappears. My priorities are way out of whack and I don't even notice. We work hard and bring in little. We put our earnings in a bag of holes.
Ch 2 vs 6-10. This temple was being built... but it was not as grand as the temple that was destroyed. Solomon's temple had been amazing, this one was ok. God's not so picky about how things look on the outside. THIS was the temple to be blessed. THIS was the temple which was to see the Desire of All Nations and be filled with glory. What a fabulous name for Christ.... The Desire of All Nations. I have to pause again here... this name makes Christ so BIG and holy and beyond the baby Jesus and even the miracler worker and healer of the sick... He is beyond... beyond what I can imagine and that's ok. He is still my Saviour and Redeemer... but more. I'm left behind in the dust! THIS temple will receive Him. This work the people are doing is extremely important.
Mom always used to say that goodness never rubs off on anyone, but evil does. If you hang out with people who aren't living for the Lord, they will not be the ones to raise their standards to meet yours... you will lower yours to meet theirs. ch 2 vs 10-14. She was right.
vs 15-19 ...Consider now from this day forward.... from the day that the foundation of the Lord's temple was laid - Consider it.... from this day I will bless you.
God sees our hearts. He sees repentence. He sees us change... He causes it. When we are not just hearers of the word, but doers He blesses. He doesn't always give us money... He blesses us.
vs 23. "In that day," says the Lord of hosts, "I will take you Zerubbabel My servant, the son of Shealtiel," says the Lord, "and will make you like a signet ring; for I have chosen you."
This verse made me very excited for this governor who didn't have much to govern, but I didn't know why. I googled signet rings, found out some neat stuff, but still didn't get it. So yes I cheated. I checked in Dave's study Bible. This was an honour. Zerubbabel was not given the word from the Lord, but Haggai was. Zerubbabel was the authorizing voice that put the "seal of approval" on the words from Haggai. He was the driving force behind obeying the Lord to finish the temple.
The signet ring was extremely important in verifying any edict sent out from the king or a nobleman. The ring was not taken off the finger except to bestow honour and power to another who could then legally speak for the king (or nobleman). To be the Lord's signet ring would be in essense having the legal rights for the Lord on earth. Could Zerubbabel be capable of handling such an honour?? NO, of course not. He is the one who seals the genealogical lines of both Joseph and Mary.
He is a descendant of Solomon's line, through that Joseph would have the legal right to the throne of David. Because of this Jesus had the earthly legal right to the throne of David. As an adoptive son, Jesus being the eldest would still have this right.
Zerubbabel was also a descendant of Nathan through whom Mary had the bloodline to the throne of David. Thus Jesus had full blood and legal rights through his earthly parents.
I'm not sure just how they skip through the women in the geneologies. Do they just count the fathers of the mothers and go through his line to the throne? I think there is a new line of study here for me!!
However this all plays out, Zerubbabel made it into both geneologies in Matthew and in Luke as did his father, Shealtiel. This because He obeyed a word from the Lord which he received 3rd hand and obeyed it.
Wouldn't it be terrible to be a prophet of the Lord, KNEW that what you said came straight from on high and no one listened? I know that some of the prophets had that happen. How wonderful that didn't happen this time.
After thought. The temple over the years had some restoration and improvements done and then was expanded upon by Herod, but this was definitely the same temple that Christ was dedicated in and was prophesied over as a baby... the same temple where the curtain to the Holy of Holies was torn from top to bottom when Christ was crucified, so we can know enter into that Holy place everyday. The same temple that stood when peace with God became a reality. The prophesies of Haggai all came true.
Haggai
Sat, Sun, Mon, Tues... this book makes no sense. I don't see anything. BRF is gonna be real humiliating because I don't get it. Can we go back to the New Testament???
Then Wednesday.
I opened up the Word, looked at this book and prayed. Ever have a time when you know you aren't the one praying? Its your voice, your brain but its the mind of the Spirit of God. Those times remind me that He really is indwelling me and He is giving me the blessing of praying what I can't and so desperately want to. This is only the 4th time this has ever happened to me. It makes me crave God. Then He sat with me and said He'd help me this time to understand some.. not all. I love Haggai. Its so simple.
When God is allowed into the study of His word, its so simple. When He is allowed to teach its easy. When I study with my own wisdom its meaningless and confusing.
The first chapter was enough to finish me. I had just been thinking (This is awful I know) that if we skimped on our tithe than maybe we could do a few things around the house that need to be done. This thought has been recurring for the past few weeks. At first I dismissed it, then I dwelt on it, then... someone decided that I needed to read Haggai chapter one. I hope y'all feel sorry for me as I had to face another major conviction here!!
vs 3 "Then the word of the Lord came by Haggai the prophet, saying, "Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins?" The Israelites put their own homes before the Lord's. Their priorities were completely off. They were taking the world's advice.... The Lord will understand why you need to have your nice things first... He has heaven, this is all you have... keep the nicest home you can for your family... that's your ministry so put your tithe there...
That is NOT God's plan. God is always to be first. That is not selfish on His part... He is caring for us. The only way for our homes to be havens for our family is to make sure that He is first in our lives. "But seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you."
Thankfully the Israelites recognized the truth when they heard it and with their Governor Zerubbabel leading them they hustled to get the temple finished. I love it when they actually obey!!! It gives me hope that I can also learn, repent, obey and be blessed!
Don't you just love the carefully consider verses. I stopped and made sure I considered these carefully. Ch 1 vs 5, vs 7, ch 2 vs 15, vs 18-19. Why do I feel sometimes like we work and work and everything just disappears into thin air? Where does the money go? We don't buy anything and yet it disappears. My priorities are way out of whack and I don't even notice. We work hard and bring in little. We put our earnings in a bag of holes.
Ch 2 vs 6-10. This temple was being built... but it was not as grand as the temple that was destroyed. Solomon's temple had been amazing, this one was ok. God's not so picky about how things look on the outside. THIS was the temple to be blessed. THIS was the temple which was to see the Desire of All Nations and be filled with glory. What a fabulous name for Christ.... The Desire of All Nations. I have to pause again here... this name makes Christ so BIG and holy and beyond the baby Jesus and even the miracler worker and healer of the sick... He is beyond... beyond what I can imagine and that's ok. He is still my Saviour and Redeemer... but more. I'm left behind in the dust! THIS temple will receive Him. This work the people are doing is extremely important.
Mom always used to say that goodness never rubs off on anyone, but evil does. If you hang out with people who aren't living for the Lord, they will not be the ones to raise their standards to meet yours... you will lower yours to meet theirs. ch 2 vs 10-14. She was right.
vs 15-19 ...Consider now from this day forward.... from the day that the foundation of the Lord's temple was laid - Consider it.... from this day I will bless you.
God sees our hearts. He sees repentence. He sees us change... He causes it. When we are not just hearers of the word, but doers He blesses. He doesn't always give us money... He blesses us.
vs 23. "In that day," says the Lord of hosts, "I will take you Zerubbabel My servant, the son of Shealtiel," says the Lord, "and will make you like a signet ring; for I have chosen you."
This verse made me very excited for this governor who didn't have much to govern, but I didn't know why. I googled signet rings, found out some neat stuff, but still didn't get it. So yes I cheated. I checked in Dave's study Bible. This was an honour. Zerubbabel was not given the word from the Lord, but Haggai was. Zerubbabel was the authorizing voice that put the "seal of approval" on the words from Haggai. He was the driving force behind obeying the Lord to finish the temple.
The signet ring was extremely important in verifying any edict sent out from the king or a nobleman. The ring was not taken off the finger except to bestow honour and power to another who could then legally speak for the king (or nobleman). To be the Lord's signet ring would be in essense having the legal rights for the Lord on earth. Could Zerubbabel be capable of handling such an honour?? NO, of course not. He is the one who seals the genealogical lines of both Joseph and Mary.
He is a descendant of Solomon's line, through that Joseph would have the legal right to the throne of David. Because of this Jesus had the earthly legal right to the throne of David. As an adoptive son, Jesus being the eldest would still have this right.
Zerubbabel was also a descendant of Nathan through whom Mary had the bloodline to the throne of David. Thus Jesus had full blood and legal rights through his earthly parents.
I'm not sure just how they skip through the women in the geneologies. Do they just count the fathers of the mothers and go through his line to the throne? I think there is a new line of study here for me!!
However this all plays out, Zerubbabel made it into both geneologies in Matthew and in Luke as did his father, Shealtiel. This because He obeyed a word from the Lord which he received 3rd hand and obeyed it.
Wouldn't it be terrible to be a prophet of the Lord, KNEW that what you said came straight from on high and no one listened? I know that some of the prophets had that happen. How wonderful that didn't happen this time.
After thought. The temple over the years had some restoration and improvements done and then was expanded upon by Herod, but this was definitely the same temple that Christ was dedicated in and was prophesied over as a baby... the same temple where the curtain to the Holy of Holies was torn from top to bottom when Christ was crucified, so we can know enter into that Holy place everyday. The same temple that stood when peace with God became a reality. The prophesies of Haggai all came true.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
BRF(S) 2 Timothy
If I were at the end of my life and writing a letter to my child, what would I write??
You can be sure I wouldn't be wasting time on frivolous things. It would be important, very important. There would be a few big issues and many small things. I would be trying to convey what I have learned in my life experience to someone who would no longer have the benefit of being able to ask me anything.
I think I would also try to let more of me show through. I would want my child to "hear" my voice as they read through the letter. I'd instill a little humour....
Just like Paul did.
This week, I thought I'd have this book memorized. I figured with a whole week with no chores or cooking to do I'd read the book at least 10 times a day. not.
I've actually had a real struggle with some bitterness that had nothing to do with the fact Justin was so sick. That was left securely in God's hands and I had a real peace about it, even when Justin was barely breathing and not responding to medications like he should. I became more and more bitter as I sat in one room, with the occasional excursion to the cafeteria or bathroom, and didn't hear from my church family, at all. They knew I was in there, right from the very start BUT no one called, visited, sent a card, offered to help with the kids or sent a meal. As the week went on my attitude about this became more and more stinky. I was ticked.
Now I was finally ready to hear Paul.
He is confined to house arrest. He has no telephone. His friends are all disappearing, some even leaving the faith. He is older, tired, has endured unimaginable beatings in his life with no physiotherapy... I'm sure he's in pain... and yet, what is missing? There is no bitterness. He is not taking anything personally. He names some of these people and uses them as examples to encourage Timothy to stand firm and hold fast. He uses himself as an example of how to endure... and why.
I love the way he says in ch 1 vs 3 that he has served God with a pure conscience. He is able to use himself all throughout this letter as an example of how to serve the Lord. Could I do that at the end of my life? I'm thinking not. I can use many examples in my life of what not to do.
In chapter 3 Paul says this... vs 10 and11 "But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra -- what persections I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me."
Ok... I feel like a flop. Yes, we have had a hard time at our church lately. With slandering, rudeness, snide remarks and worse. We are innocent of these accusations, yet to most it doesn't matter. Paul had much worse happen to him. No one at our church has had us arrested, stoned, flogged or run out of town!! (Though I have a feeling a few would like to!!) This has nothing to do with us really, it is their sin that is being allowed to run wild.
It is not my responsibility to stop the trial, it is my responsibility to respond in love, period. I don't want to. I want to be bitter, run away and tell a few people off. Is that enduring hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ? I can't let the fact that I had a bad week affect my attitude toward the people that Christ died for and loves with an everlasting love.
How's this for a rebuke?? ch 2 vs 24-26 "And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will."
My feelings are not to be the motivation behind how I act. I need to be gentle and able to correct in humility so they may know the truth and be freed from the captivity of the devil. There is no room in the Christian life for bitterness. It keeps others (and myself) grip of the devil.
I would like to fulfill my ministry. To be able to say at the end that I have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith. I dare say I have a long way to go!
I love the part, right after he explains that he has finished... is being poured out like a drink offering etc., where he asks Timothy to "be diligent to come to me quickly" and later "Do your utmost to come before winter." Hello, I'm gonna die soon, come soon or don't bother... and bring me a coat while you're at it... before it gets cold.
This is getting too long.
I would hate to have been one of the guys Paul named as an example of what not to be. All we know about them is that they fell short of the mark.
It would be wonderful to be named as someone who has been an encouragement to Paul. We don't know much about them either. Some we have heard of before, some not. I'm wondering who Claudia is. Of the last of Paul's letters, she is the last person named. What an honor.
Who would name their kids Pudens?? Want some puddin' Pudens?
Hopefully I won't be so longwinded next time!
You can be sure I wouldn't be wasting time on frivolous things. It would be important, very important. There would be a few big issues and many small things. I would be trying to convey what I have learned in my life experience to someone who would no longer have the benefit of being able to ask me anything.
I think I would also try to let more of me show through. I would want my child to "hear" my voice as they read through the letter. I'd instill a little humour....
Just like Paul did.
This week, I thought I'd have this book memorized. I figured with a whole week with no chores or cooking to do I'd read the book at least 10 times a day. not.
I've actually had a real struggle with some bitterness that had nothing to do with the fact Justin was so sick. That was left securely in God's hands and I had a real peace about it, even when Justin was barely breathing and not responding to medications like he should. I became more and more bitter as I sat in one room, with the occasional excursion to the cafeteria or bathroom, and didn't hear from my church family, at all. They knew I was in there, right from the very start BUT no one called, visited, sent a card, offered to help with the kids or sent a meal. As the week went on my attitude about this became more and more stinky. I was ticked.
Now I was finally ready to hear Paul.
He is confined to house arrest. He has no telephone. His friends are all disappearing, some even leaving the faith. He is older, tired, has endured unimaginable beatings in his life with no physiotherapy... I'm sure he's in pain... and yet, what is missing? There is no bitterness. He is not taking anything personally. He names some of these people and uses them as examples to encourage Timothy to stand firm and hold fast. He uses himself as an example of how to endure... and why.
I love the way he says in ch 1 vs 3 that he has served God with a pure conscience. He is able to use himself all throughout this letter as an example of how to serve the Lord. Could I do that at the end of my life? I'm thinking not. I can use many examples in my life of what not to do.
In chapter 3 Paul says this... vs 10 and11 "But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra -- what persections I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me."
Ok... I feel like a flop. Yes, we have had a hard time at our church lately. With slandering, rudeness, snide remarks and worse. We are innocent of these accusations, yet to most it doesn't matter. Paul had much worse happen to him. No one at our church has had us arrested, stoned, flogged or run out of town!! (Though I have a feeling a few would like to!!) This has nothing to do with us really, it is their sin that is being allowed to run wild.
It is not my responsibility to stop the trial, it is my responsibility to respond in love, period. I don't want to. I want to be bitter, run away and tell a few people off. Is that enduring hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ? I can't let the fact that I had a bad week affect my attitude toward the people that Christ died for and loves with an everlasting love.
How's this for a rebuke?? ch 2 vs 24-26 "And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will."
My feelings are not to be the motivation behind how I act. I need to be gentle and able to correct in humility so they may know the truth and be freed from the captivity of the devil. There is no room in the Christian life for bitterness. It keeps others (and myself) grip of the devil.
I would like to fulfill my ministry. To be able to say at the end that I have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith. I dare say I have a long way to go!
I love the part, right after he explains that he has finished... is being poured out like a drink offering etc., where he asks Timothy to "be diligent to come to me quickly" and later "Do your utmost to come before winter." Hello, I'm gonna die soon, come soon or don't bother... and bring me a coat while you're at it... before it gets cold.
This is getting too long.
I would hate to have been one of the guys Paul named as an example of what not to be. All we know about them is that they fell short of the mark.
It would be wonderful to be named as someone who has been an encouragement to Paul. We don't know much about them either. Some we have heard of before, some not. I'm wondering who Claudia is. Of the last of Paul's letters, she is the last person named. What an honor.
Who would name their kids Pudens?? Want some puddin' Pudens?
Hopefully I won't be so longwinded next time!
Friday, February 02, 2007
Home at last
We are finally home!!! We arrived at 6:45 pm to find some very happy kids. I didn't know until today just how sick Justin was. Another day at home would most likely have been his last. I am so thankful for IV's, oxygen masks, ventalin, antibiotics and all the machines that put them into little bodies in just the right doses. I am thankful for good nurses and doctors, parking passes(!), volunteers and student nurses who still go gaga over cute babies! And I am so thankful for the healing hand of my heavenly Father who gave us our baby back.
From Sunday to Wednesday night Justin didn't even try to sit up! When he did sit up, for 2-3 min tops, he crashed and was asleep before his head hit the pillow... I'm so glad he didn't fall into the crib bars. From the 3 Monday afternoon until 2:oo this afternoon Justin drank a total of 11 0z of fluid, and ate mainly yogurt from Weds night on.
This was not fun.
Wednesday Connor was sliding, crashed and 2 kids crashed on him. We thought he broke his collarbone, but thankfully only pulled a pec. Now he has the fun of telling others he has a pulled pec!
Thursday, Molly and Jack both fell ill. They most likely also have RSV, but the symptoms lessen with age. Therefore, Jack is more sick than Molly, but Justin was more sick than Jack. The older kids have the sniffles, which is how RSV shows in older kids.
Dave and I were both coming home at the same time, but Dave stopped to get the prescription for Justin and a few groceries. I came straight home, except the stop for windshield wiper fluid as I was driving almost blind. Jack had just had a fudgicle and had a dirty diaper so I lovingly cleaned him all up and put on fresh jammies. He started coughing and I crouched down with my arms out for a big Jack hug!! How I missed this sweet boy. He came running with a weird look on his face which I recognized a split second too late.
Yes, instead of my warm, cuddly hug.... I got puked on over the head. As I sat there holding Jack with vomit dripping down my hair and face I just started laughing.... hysterics maybe? Jack, unsure at first, giggled, pointed to me and said, "Yuck!"
Yeah, yuck!! Absolutely!! Then I did what any sane(?) mom would do... call the oldest child! "Caitlyn, I need help!! Towels, wet washcloths, whatever you can find NOW!!"
She ran in and stopped short. Jack pointed to me again and said, "Mommy, yuck!!"
That's my boy. Short and to the point.
I'm clean now.
Dave is home.
Dave cleaned all the pukey towels!!! Love that guy!
The kids are in bed.
My book review Friday is moving to Saturday.
My ventalin puffer is not working well... I pray that Justin won't need it!
I am almost scared to go to sleep knowing no nurses are on the watch 24/7 for Justin... God is watching 24/7 for Justin, Jack, Molly and all the rest of them and He has always woken us up when we needed to be awake...
I have nothing to fear.
I would love to share something that was hilarious, but the person who said it has no idea how hilarious it was... and I'm not sure that she doesn't read this. I think she was absolutely serious. I'm so glad I could have a good laugh with God!!
G'night.
From Sunday to Wednesday night Justin didn't even try to sit up! When he did sit up, for 2-3 min tops, he crashed and was asleep before his head hit the pillow... I'm so glad he didn't fall into the crib bars. From the 3 Monday afternoon until 2:oo this afternoon Justin drank a total of 11 0z of fluid, and ate mainly yogurt from Weds night on.
This was not fun.
Wednesday Connor was sliding, crashed and 2 kids crashed on him. We thought he broke his collarbone, but thankfully only pulled a pec. Now he has the fun of telling others he has a pulled pec!
Thursday, Molly and Jack both fell ill. They most likely also have RSV, but the symptoms lessen with age. Therefore, Jack is more sick than Molly, but Justin was more sick than Jack. The older kids have the sniffles, which is how RSV shows in older kids.
Dave and I were both coming home at the same time, but Dave stopped to get the prescription for Justin and a few groceries. I came straight home, except the stop for windshield wiper fluid as I was driving almost blind. Jack had just had a fudgicle and had a dirty diaper so I lovingly cleaned him all up and put on fresh jammies. He started coughing and I crouched down with my arms out for a big Jack hug!! How I missed this sweet boy. He came running with a weird look on his face which I recognized a split second too late.
Yes, instead of my warm, cuddly hug.... I got puked on over the head. As I sat there holding Jack with vomit dripping down my hair and face I just started laughing.... hysterics maybe? Jack, unsure at first, giggled, pointed to me and said, "Yuck!"
Yeah, yuck!! Absolutely!! Then I did what any sane(?) mom would do... call the oldest child! "Caitlyn, I need help!! Towels, wet washcloths, whatever you can find NOW!!"
She ran in and stopped short. Jack pointed to me again and said, "Mommy, yuck!!"
That's my boy. Short and to the point.
I'm clean now.
Dave is home.
Dave cleaned all the pukey towels!!! Love that guy!
The kids are in bed.
My book review Friday is moving to Saturday.
My ventalin puffer is not working well... I pray that Justin won't need it!
I am almost scared to go to sleep knowing no nurses are on the watch 24/7 for Justin... God is watching 24/7 for Justin, Jack, Molly and all the rest of them and He has always woken us up when we needed to be awake...
I have nothing to fear.
I would love to share something that was hilarious, but the person who said it has no idea how hilarious it was... and I'm not sure that she doesn't read this. I think she was absolutely serious. I'm so glad I could have a good laugh with God!!
G'night.
The hospital, our new home
Well, this isn't how I planned this week. This week we were going to delve into history and study Samuel de Champlain and the settlement on St. Croix Island in 1602. We have the interpretive trunk from the dept of education with 30 different items including a beaver pelt, a moccasin, a wooden shoe boot and cd's teaching the kids how to speak an Indian language.
However, that isn't happening!! I am sitting in the hospital with a very sick Justin.
We were admitted yesterday after I couldn't get him to wake up and the only liquids going into his little body were what I was forcing in. My doctor let me bring him right into the office, diagnosed him with pneumonia, with possible RSV, and then sent him right to the hospital for admitting. I'm so thankful for a few good friends who are willing to take on a bunch of kids with no notice, just we are on the way!!
This has been a good time to do a little Bible study and do some reading. Last night I didn't have my own Bible yet and went to pull out the trusty Gideon Bible only to find out it was in french! I don't read or speak french. How wonderful when Dave brought in my bag with my own Bible in it!
Justin is on oxygen, IV with antibiotics and the occasional Tylenol and is starting to respond well. His temp is hovering around normal. His fluids are better, tho' he isn't drinking much and because he is getting enough oxygen he is somewhat more alert. My active little guy doesn't even want to sit up. He did play with a truck for about a minute today. I'm so glad this is temporary. Some moms would love to have their kids as healthy as my baby. We will be in at least another day, maybe more. They would like to see him more alert and active and breathing well without the oxygen. He is still struggling to get a good breath even with the oxygen.
He is so cute and so... pathetic(?) that everyone is falling in love with him.
I just took a look at my last post. I was leaving to check Justin. That was when I saw the very labored breathing and high temp, sweats and couldn't wake him up. How the mood of the house changed in a very, very short time!!
However, that isn't happening!! I am sitting in the hospital with a very sick Justin.
We were admitted yesterday after I couldn't get him to wake up and the only liquids going into his little body were what I was forcing in. My doctor let me bring him right into the office, diagnosed him with pneumonia, with possible RSV, and then sent him right to the hospital for admitting. I'm so thankful for a few good friends who are willing to take on a bunch of kids with no notice, just we are on the way!!
This has been a good time to do a little Bible study and do some reading. Last night I didn't have my own Bible yet and went to pull out the trusty Gideon Bible only to find out it was in french! I don't read or speak french. How wonderful when Dave brought in my bag with my own Bible in it!
Justin is on oxygen, IV with antibiotics and the occasional Tylenol and is starting to respond well. His temp is hovering around normal. His fluids are better, tho' he isn't drinking much and because he is getting enough oxygen he is somewhat more alert. My active little guy doesn't even want to sit up. He did play with a truck for about a minute today. I'm so glad this is temporary. Some moms would love to have their kids as healthy as my baby. We will be in at least another day, maybe more. They would like to see him more alert and active and breathing well without the oxygen. He is still struggling to get a good breath even with the oxygen.
He is so cute and so... pathetic(?) that everyone is falling in love with him.
I just took a look at my last post. I was leaving to check Justin. That was when I saw the very labored breathing and high temp, sweats and couldn't wake him up. How the mood of the house changed in a very, very short time!!
Monday, January 29, 2007
Curtains, Stew, and Banana Bread
This has been another bizarro type weekend.
Poor baby J... he has been so under the weather. At first I thought it may be just teething, since he's teething too, but sadly, he's also sick. And so is Jack... and Molly... and Dave... and Caitlyn. Caitlyn not so badly tho, praise the Lord. I need her help!!
However, we've had one of the most productive weekends in a while. We moved furniture, cleaned through desks, drawers, cupboards, raised the dust, dusted.. I baked 3 loaves of bread, a dozen rolls, 3 banana breads, made curtains for my bedroom (after finding my curtain book in an obscure drawer), talked to my mom and Dave's mom, and made a huge stew all while taking care of one very sick baby. Mrs. Wilt would be proud!
Now its Monday. I'm trying to type while instructing children in scripture memory and english grammar. The kitchen is not as neat as Saturday. When my Dave crashed and burnt it kinda hurt the momentum in the house. Big men fall hard.
I'm so pleased with my curtains. I really have no idea how to sew. I bought a machine when we first were married thinking all wives needed a sewing machine. Then I bought books on how to make pillows, curtains and things for the home. Now when I sew, I pray and go for it. Amazingly everything seems to work out. A few more little touches and my room will look good!
I'd better get back to work here. I need to check my precious little baby.
Poor baby J... he has been so under the weather. At first I thought it may be just teething, since he's teething too, but sadly, he's also sick. And so is Jack... and Molly... and Dave... and Caitlyn. Caitlyn not so badly tho, praise the Lord. I need her help!!
However, we've had one of the most productive weekends in a while. We moved furniture, cleaned through desks, drawers, cupboards, raised the dust, dusted.. I baked 3 loaves of bread, a dozen rolls, 3 banana breads, made curtains for my bedroom (after finding my curtain book in an obscure drawer), talked to my mom and Dave's mom, and made a huge stew all while taking care of one very sick baby. Mrs. Wilt would be proud!
Now its Monday. I'm trying to type while instructing children in scripture memory and english grammar. The kitchen is not as neat as Saturday. When my Dave crashed and burnt it kinda hurt the momentum in the house. Big men fall hard.
I'm so pleased with my curtains. I really have no idea how to sew. I bought a machine when we first were married thinking all wives needed a sewing machine. Then I bought books on how to make pillows, curtains and things for the home. Now when I sew, I pray and go for it. Amazingly everything seems to work out. A few more little touches and my room will look good!
I'd better get back to work here. I need to check my precious little baby.
Friday, January 26, 2007
I Timothy
This was one meaty book!! First of all, it made me wish I had a Paul... a mentor... a humble, godly person who would write me a letter telling me how to do everything I need to do!! And then I realized that I do! In fact, I have more than a Paul... I have Paul's God. Guess what? He even wrote me an amazing letter outlining everything I need to know in order to live a life honoring to Him. I'm overwhelmed... by the fact that He wrote this book to ME and that I take it for granted and don't do what it says. Ouch!
The first couple of days, I was very caught up in the roles for deacons and overseers. God is very patient with me as I will never be a deacon or overseer as I don't fit the criteria. In thinking about the deacons in our church I realized only one of them actually fits the criteria. No wonder our church is in a mess, the leadership is not qualified to lead. God then pointed the way to where Paul instructs Timothy on the women in the church. Some of it was pretty hard to read, esp the part where we are to be silent in the church! We had a church business meeting this week. Here was my chance to see if I learned anything. There were a few times when I wanted to jump up and say, "Hey, this isn't right!! Haven't you read 1 Timothy?" But I was silent. To my amazement one of the things I so desperately wanted to say and didn't came out of the mouth of an older man. God doesn't want me to go against His word, even if the words I speak are technically correct. I would still be disobeying. I did notice that the only heated discussion occurred because one woman opened up a can of worms that didn't need to be opened. If she had been silent in the church that little fiasco would have never happened. Gotta love those object lessons.
I watched as a man without the qualifications of a deacon was voted into office. Again, I kept my mouth shut... this time no man spoke up. I did not get upset with my husband for not saying anything! Our votes were the only nays...
Its very hard to read sometimes what the Lord has in mind for Ladies Ministries. Chapter 5 vs 9 & 10 sum it up like this... "... been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds." Somehow I missed leading a Bible study, helping in AWANA, running kids to soccer and music lessons, taking a weekly/biweekly day with the girls for r&r, singing in the choir and hosting couples get togethers. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with any of those things, but even these good things can become a distraction for what we are supposed to be doing.
vs 14 of ch 5 continues.. "So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander." I know this is about widows, but I'm thinking the same applies to the younger women. Get married, have kids and stay home. You will stay out of trouble, and not cause trouble for others. There are several women I know who stay at home and still seem to have time to call and want to talk for hours.. I don't have that time and don't want it! How many women can talk for hours and not say anything bad about anyone. I'll be honest. I can't. I'd rather have short meaningful conversations and remain busy at home. There sure is enough to keep me busy. I'm looking forward to seeing the floors in my kids bedrooms, having the curtains made for my room, being able to do projects like this and not feeling guilty because my husband is in the kitchen doing MY job...
I'm still not impressed with ch 2 vs 14 "and Adam was not he one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner." Ouch, ouch, ouch!! On the radio, one of the preachers today was saying that we all have a blind spot. Think ya don't?? You do... its a BLIND spot!! Ask someone to point out yours and try not to be offended.
Women are so easily deceived. How do we know when we are deceived?? We don't! We are deceived... UNLESS we are so entwined with God and His word, we are so drenched in the truths found within this Book we have copies of all over our houses, that any lie will stand out as such. Only knowing the truth can keep us from being deceived. I love the book "Lies Women Believe, and the Truth that Sets Them Free" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. I read it thinking that I had the entirety of truth already established in my life and there was no way that I believed any lies. Ha ha ha Talk about bursting my bubble. I had believed many lies that were hurting my relationship with Christ. Lets back that one up... I'm sure that I believe many more lies that I don't know about yet. As a daughter of Eve, I am easily deceived. Its best that I keep my mouth shut, unless I know for sure that what I believe is in full accord with God's word. Its best that I keep my mouth shut and not take it upon myself to share what I know better(!) to my husband or any other man. Do I think that God needs me to take the place of His Spirit? Can we share and teach with and to other women? Of course we can! God has gifted some women and given them a special anointing for that purpose! But never to have authority or teach a man.
How does this truth cover up lies in the church? A woman is never to be a pastor, deacon, adult sunday school teacher (unless its a women only group), let her opinion fly in a church business meeting, etc. Does this mean our opinion doesn't count? Of course not. My husband and I discuss many things together and we do influence how the other thinks. Dave asks my opinion a lot... more now that I just don't give it to him like I used to!! And he values how I think. Sometimes I even hear my thoughts coming from his mouth... Cool.
One more thing and then I am closing this epistle. Its almost as long as 1 Timothy itself!! Godliness with contentment is great gain!! How I long to be content. I don't want to be eager for money and wander from the faith. I want to be generous and share with what I have and not be always wanting more. What we have here is so much more than most of the people on earth. We have food, clothing (too much even), a warm home, wonderful kids, cars with working heat and airconditioning. Who wants to think of AC today?? brrrr We have so much. Why am I always looking for more? I am not content. Still praying about that one!! God is good and will help as He so sloooowly works in me to make me more like Him.
Oh yeah! One MORE thing... wouldn't you love to know what it was that was prophesied over Timothy?? See, I am a nosy gossip at heart... wanting to know what is none of my business... aren't you just a little curious??
The first couple of days, I was very caught up in the roles for deacons and overseers. God is very patient with me as I will never be a deacon or overseer as I don't fit the criteria. In thinking about the deacons in our church I realized only one of them actually fits the criteria. No wonder our church is in a mess, the leadership is not qualified to lead. God then pointed the way to where Paul instructs Timothy on the women in the church. Some of it was pretty hard to read, esp the part where we are to be silent in the church! We had a church business meeting this week. Here was my chance to see if I learned anything. There were a few times when I wanted to jump up and say, "Hey, this isn't right!! Haven't you read 1 Timothy?" But I was silent. To my amazement one of the things I so desperately wanted to say and didn't came out of the mouth of an older man. God doesn't want me to go against His word, even if the words I speak are technically correct. I would still be disobeying. I did notice that the only heated discussion occurred because one woman opened up a can of worms that didn't need to be opened. If she had been silent in the church that little fiasco would have never happened. Gotta love those object lessons.
I watched as a man without the qualifications of a deacon was voted into office. Again, I kept my mouth shut... this time no man spoke up. I did not get upset with my husband for not saying anything! Our votes were the only nays...
Its very hard to read sometimes what the Lord has in mind for Ladies Ministries. Chapter 5 vs 9 & 10 sum it up like this... "... been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds." Somehow I missed leading a Bible study, helping in AWANA, running kids to soccer and music lessons, taking a weekly/biweekly day with the girls for r&r, singing in the choir and hosting couples get togethers. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with any of those things, but even these good things can become a distraction for what we are supposed to be doing.
vs 14 of ch 5 continues.. "So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander." I know this is about widows, but I'm thinking the same applies to the younger women. Get married, have kids and stay home. You will stay out of trouble, and not cause trouble for others. There are several women I know who stay at home and still seem to have time to call and want to talk for hours.. I don't have that time and don't want it! How many women can talk for hours and not say anything bad about anyone. I'll be honest. I can't. I'd rather have short meaningful conversations and remain busy at home. There sure is enough to keep me busy. I'm looking forward to seeing the floors in my kids bedrooms, having the curtains made for my room, being able to do projects like this and not feeling guilty because my husband is in the kitchen doing MY job...
I'm still not impressed with ch 2 vs 14 "and Adam was not he one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner." Ouch, ouch, ouch!! On the radio, one of the preachers today was saying that we all have a blind spot. Think ya don't?? You do... its a BLIND spot!! Ask someone to point out yours and try not to be offended.
Women are so easily deceived. How do we know when we are deceived?? We don't! We are deceived... UNLESS we are so entwined with God and His word, we are so drenched in the truths found within this Book we have copies of all over our houses, that any lie will stand out as such. Only knowing the truth can keep us from being deceived. I love the book "Lies Women Believe, and the Truth that Sets Them Free" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. I read it thinking that I had the entirety of truth already established in my life and there was no way that I believed any lies. Ha ha ha Talk about bursting my bubble. I had believed many lies that were hurting my relationship with Christ. Lets back that one up... I'm sure that I believe many more lies that I don't know about yet. As a daughter of Eve, I am easily deceived. Its best that I keep my mouth shut, unless I know for sure that what I believe is in full accord with God's word. Its best that I keep my mouth shut and not take it upon myself to share what I know better(!) to my husband or any other man. Do I think that God needs me to take the place of His Spirit? Can we share and teach with and to other women? Of course we can! God has gifted some women and given them a special anointing for that purpose! But never to have authority or teach a man.
How does this truth cover up lies in the church? A woman is never to be a pastor, deacon, adult sunday school teacher (unless its a women only group), let her opinion fly in a church business meeting, etc. Does this mean our opinion doesn't count? Of course not. My husband and I discuss many things together and we do influence how the other thinks. Dave asks my opinion a lot... more now that I just don't give it to him like I used to!! And he values how I think. Sometimes I even hear my thoughts coming from his mouth... Cool.
One more thing and then I am closing this epistle. Its almost as long as 1 Timothy itself!! Godliness with contentment is great gain!! How I long to be content. I don't want to be eager for money and wander from the faith. I want to be generous and share with what I have and not be always wanting more. What we have here is so much more than most of the people on earth. We have food, clothing (too much even), a warm home, wonderful kids, cars with working heat and airconditioning. Who wants to think of AC today?? brrrr We have so much. Why am I always looking for more? I am not content. Still praying about that one!! God is good and will help as He so sloooowly works in me to make me more like Him.
Oh yeah! One MORE thing... wouldn't you love to know what it was that was prophesied over Timothy?? See, I am a nosy gossip at heart... wanting to know what is none of my business... aren't you just a little curious??
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Happpy Birthday, Justin!!
Happy Birthday, Justin!! Our baby boy turned one last week on the 17th. We are so thankful God entrusted us with the care of this precious boy. He is just the right type of cuddly kid, while at the same time becoming more boyishly independant. He loved having his birthday cake and 2 fisted it faster than any baby I've ever seen!! Thankfully he well slimed his hands with frosting, because he put out his candle with his finger. He moves MUCH faster than his Momma!!! The sugar high lasted about 4 days and he has become more little boy and less baby this week. By the time this next wee one arrives, Justin will be quite the mature toddler!! 
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Let it snow and snow and snow some more!!
Wow!! Just when we thought we were safe... Winter hit with a vengeance!! Has it ever been this cold before?? I'm sure it has sometime, but not for awhile! Yesterday Dave didn't even go to work it snowed so hard. The plow was called, kids were outside playing their little hearts out... And then we realized... The boys did not have the proper gear for winter. Matthew didn't even have a heavy winter coat let alone ski pants. Connor's coat was a little small and he was wearing purple ski pants. Ok, he likes purple, but c'mon!!! We live in Canada, how could our kids be so not ready for winter?
Then I got the call...
"Hi Martha, its Wes calling. Diane is working at Sears today and says to get in there!! All the kids snowsuits are half off the lowest ticketed price AND she has a coupon for a further $20 off for you."
How fast could we get into Sears? Scarily not that fast as I was still in my jammies and robe and had bedhead at 11:30 am. I was talking on the phone at that time and my friend whose name will not be mentioned completely (G--n McQ----ie) was as dressed as I was! We did manage to get into Sears 20 min before Diane was off shift and was able to get Matt, Connor and Jack all really nice jackets and skipants. Jack's even included a hat and scarf. Matt's suit was originally $109 before taxes. We got all 3 suits for $102 after taxes. They will all fit next year too. Hopefully Matt will be able to pass his down to Connor.
Moral of this rather long winded saga?? God provided what we needed, when we needed it, in a really nice way without us having to go nutso worrying about it. We haven't had any snow until now so we didn't need these items before. Today was even too cold to go out to play. Tomorrow is the first really good snow day and those kids will be ready for it.
It really helped to remind us of God's provision for us one day after hearing we will have to wait another 3 months to find out if Dave gets a really amazing job!! We were pretty sure it was a sure thing, but then were told it was on hold until April. I hate waiting. I'm the kind of person who would rather be told and out and out NO than to be told to wait. God gives me many, many chances to improve my attitude about waiting, and this one is a real stinker. But y'know, I'm almost enjoying the wait. Notice I said almost. Its a challange of whether I can win over the old nature of impatience and be excited about living the life God has given us NOW.
Now, I have curtains to sew, kids closets and dressers to clean through, linen closet to sort through, babies to feed and clean up after, children to train, a husband to take care of!, quiet times to have, Bible characters to know better, rooms to rearrange, budgets to make and stick too, books to read, Bible studies to do, lots of math to correct, a gazillion doctors appts to get to... and so on and so on...
I think God has given me enough to keep me busy for NOW that waiting for what might never come should be a cinch!
I'm reading Anne Ortlund's trilogy "Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman", "Disciplines of the Heart", and "Disciplines of the Home". If there were ever an encouraging book (or set of books) on living a beautiful, feminine, gentle life... this is it. I am inspired to grab hold of the reins of this house and really make a difference in it. There are even study guides in this thing. I would love to actually do this as a group study with some like minded women. Thanks to Joy for giving me this book!!!
This was rambly! I feel rambly tonight. I am so thankful there are no rules for blogging. I can ramble all I please!!
Then I got the call...
"Hi Martha, its Wes calling. Diane is working at Sears today and says to get in there!! All the kids snowsuits are half off the lowest ticketed price AND she has a coupon for a further $20 off for you."
How fast could we get into Sears? Scarily not that fast as I was still in my jammies and robe and had bedhead at 11:30 am. I was talking on the phone at that time and my friend whose name will not be mentioned completely (G--n McQ----ie) was as dressed as I was! We did manage to get into Sears 20 min before Diane was off shift and was able to get Matt, Connor and Jack all really nice jackets and skipants. Jack's even included a hat and scarf. Matt's suit was originally $109 before taxes. We got all 3 suits for $102 after taxes. They will all fit next year too. Hopefully Matt will be able to pass his down to Connor.
Moral of this rather long winded saga?? God provided what we needed, when we needed it, in a really nice way without us having to go nutso worrying about it. We haven't had any snow until now so we didn't need these items before. Today was even too cold to go out to play. Tomorrow is the first really good snow day and those kids will be ready for it.
It really helped to remind us of God's provision for us one day after hearing we will have to wait another 3 months to find out if Dave gets a really amazing job!! We were pretty sure it was a sure thing, but then were told it was on hold until April. I hate waiting. I'm the kind of person who would rather be told and out and out NO than to be told to wait. God gives me many, many chances to improve my attitude about waiting, and this one is a real stinker. But y'know, I'm almost enjoying the wait. Notice I said almost. Its a challange of whether I can win over the old nature of impatience and be excited about living the life God has given us NOW.
Now, I have curtains to sew, kids closets and dressers to clean through, linen closet to sort through, babies to feed and clean up after, children to train, a husband to take care of!, quiet times to have, Bible characters to know better, rooms to rearrange, budgets to make and stick too, books to read, Bible studies to do, lots of math to correct, a gazillion doctors appts to get to... and so on and so on...
I think God has given me enough to keep me busy for NOW that waiting for what might never come should be a cinch!
I'm reading Anne Ortlund's trilogy "Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman", "Disciplines of the Heart", and "Disciplines of the Home". If there were ever an encouraging book (or set of books) on living a beautiful, feminine, gentle life... this is it. I am inspired to grab hold of the reins of this house and really make a difference in it. There are even study guides in this thing. I would love to actually do this as a group study with some like minded women. Thanks to Joy for giving me this book!!!
This was rambly! I feel rambly tonight. I am so thankful there are no rules for blogging. I can ramble all I please!!
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Molly Talk
Molly is a very interesting character.
She has been telling me lately about when she was a grown up and I was in her tummy. hmmmm...
She does not like to go to the bathroom alone for some reason and either wants someone in there or leaves the door open.
The other day as she was doing her duty and I was keeping her company she comes up with, "I can't wait to be a grown up." sigh "I want to chew gum, eat peanuts and get some privacy!"
Not quite believing what I'm hearing due to the circumstances of this conversation, I ask her, "Do you have any idea what privacy is?"
"Nope", she replies, "but everyone around here is always saying they want privacy and when I grow up I'm gonna get some!!"
Knock yourself out kid!!
She has been telling me lately about when she was a grown up and I was in her tummy. hmmmm...
She does not like to go to the bathroom alone for some reason and either wants someone in there or leaves the door open.
The other day as she was doing her duty and I was keeping her company she comes up with, "I can't wait to be a grown up." sigh "I want to chew gum, eat peanuts and get some privacy!"
Not quite believing what I'm hearing due to the circumstances of this conversation, I ask her, "Do you have any idea what privacy is?"
"Nope", she replies, "but everyone around here is always saying they want privacy and when I grow up I'm gonna get some!!"
Knock yourself out kid!!
Merry Christmas
This was quite possibly the calmest and most enjoyable Christmas we have ever had. To begin with, I have been terribly sick with morning sickness and a sore throat. The throat would not get better because I routinely irritated it with stomach acid.... more than you needed to know right?? On Saturday the 23rd we decided that if the kids were to have anything in their stockings we really should hit the mall. I am so thankful for a capable almost 13 yr old who can watch 5 siblings for 5 or 6 hours. I've had adult babysitters who didn't do as good a job!!
Dave and baby Justin and I had a very relaxing time in the mall. I thought it would be crazy, but there were no lines at all.
God gave me a break for Christmas. Sat, Sun, Mon and Tues I was not sick once. Thinking the worst was over I was bitterly disappointed when it picked up again Weds again... I am so thankful for my reprieve tho.
Christmas morning was also a gift. The boys woke up at 5:30 and quietly played games in the dining room for 2 hours. They woke everyone up at 7:30 and calmly waited for us to get up. We sat down by the tree and read the Christmas story from Luke 2 and then all prayed before we even got into the stockings. Once again the kids were calm and focused. They opened gifts with the same restraint and played quietly and kindly with each other all day, and the next and the next. I am so thrilled with my children. Dave has been home all week as he took it for vacation and he is quite impressed too.
I think our Turkey may have been a little too large. We have so much frozen, soup has been made, hot and cold sandwiches have been enjoyed and we have tons left. I think more is going in the freezer!!
I think the very best part of this Christmas has been the healing of relationships in our extended family. Some very strained relationships have been made right, misunderstandings clarified, and we can finally enjoy each other again. God has been merciful.
There has been a situation at church that has made this month very difficult. Some gossip has been circulated that is completely false and some have believed it and have treated us accordingly. It has made going to church very stressful. A dear lady has been calling this week to encourage me through this. Knowing one person there cares about us, rejects the gossip and is praying for us makes the world of difference. Hopefully this trial will soon be over. There is a part of me who would love to see the perpetrators of this gossip brought to task over it. I'm pretty sure who it is since he royally told us off last month!! Some conversations are so ridiculous, they really should be taped somehow... anyway, there is also a part of me that is trying so hard to wait on the Lord here. At some point soon we have to confront this person and say that we have been offended by him. I'm sure that he knows this and hopefully is looking for an opportunity to apologize. We will see!
Dave should be home soon. Caitlyn and Courtney went to a birthday party, Matt and Connor are out playing with a friend, Justin and Jack are playing cars/watching Barney and Dave took Molly to do some errands. Everything is calm and quiet. Life is good.
Dave and baby Justin and I had a very relaxing time in the mall. I thought it would be crazy, but there were no lines at all.
God gave me a break for Christmas. Sat, Sun, Mon and Tues I was not sick once. Thinking the worst was over I was bitterly disappointed when it picked up again Weds again... I am so thankful for my reprieve tho.
Christmas morning was also a gift. The boys woke up at 5:30 and quietly played games in the dining room for 2 hours. They woke everyone up at 7:30 and calmly waited for us to get up. We sat down by the tree and read the Christmas story from Luke 2 and then all prayed before we even got into the stockings. Once again the kids were calm and focused. They opened gifts with the same restraint and played quietly and kindly with each other all day, and the next and the next. I am so thrilled with my children. Dave has been home all week as he took it for vacation and he is quite impressed too.
I think our Turkey may have been a little too large. We have so much frozen, soup has been made, hot and cold sandwiches have been enjoyed and we have tons left. I think more is going in the freezer!!
I think the very best part of this Christmas has been the healing of relationships in our extended family. Some very strained relationships have been made right, misunderstandings clarified, and we can finally enjoy each other again. God has been merciful.
There has been a situation at church that has made this month very difficult. Some gossip has been circulated that is completely false and some have believed it and have treated us accordingly. It has made going to church very stressful. A dear lady has been calling this week to encourage me through this. Knowing one person there cares about us, rejects the gossip and is praying for us makes the world of difference. Hopefully this trial will soon be over. There is a part of me who would love to see the perpetrators of this gossip brought to task over it. I'm pretty sure who it is since he royally told us off last month!! Some conversations are so ridiculous, they really should be taped somehow... anyway, there is also a part of me that is trying so hard to wait on the Lord here. At some point soon we have to confront this person and say that we have been offended by him. I'm sure that he knows this and hopefully is looking for an opportunity to apologize. We will see!
Dave should be home soon. Caitlyn and Courtney went to a birthday party, Matt and Connor are out playing with a friend, Justin and Jack are playing cars/watching Barney and Dave took Molly to do some errands. Everything is calm and quiet. Life is good.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Adam to Noah
I have the list I was looking for about the first 10 generations of man and their names. Thankfully someone was paying attention and took a pen last week!!
Here we go...
Adam === Man
Seth === Appointed
Enosh === Mortal Sorrow
Mahalalel = The Blessed God
Jared === Shall Come Down
Enoch === Teaching
Methuselah= His Death Shall Bring
Lamech === The Despairing
Noah === Comfort
Man (is) appointed mortal sorrow. The blessed God shall come down teaching. His death shall bring the despairing comfort.
What a testamony of God's plan for mankind. It was given clearly through the ancient patriarchs before the flood... written well before it came to pass. I love seeing how God works. I really have no idea how people don't see Him for who He is.
I am so humbled to know that He loves me. I know me... I am no where near being anything that God would desire outside of Himself!
The babies are up!
Off I go. Happy Wednesday!
Here we go...
Adam === Man
Seth === Appointed
Enosh === Mortal Sorrow
Mahalalel = The Blessed God
Jared === Shall Come Down
Enoch === Teaching
Methuselah= His Death Shall Bring
Lamech === The Despairing
Noah === Comfort
Man (is) appointed mortal sorrow. The blessed God shall come down teaching. His death shall bring the despairing comfort.
What a testamony of God's plan for mankind. It was given clearly through the ancient patriarchs before the flood... written well before it came to pass. I love seeing how God works. I really have no idea how people don't see Him for who He is.
I am so humbled to know that He loves me. I know me... I am no where near being anything that God would desire outside of Himself!
The babies are up!
Off I go. Happy Wednesday!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
God is on the move
This has been a very strange week.
We had a great weekend visiting my folks in Rothesay... played cards until midnight with great friends... my kids were actually in the Santa Clause parade with Mum and Dad's church... Sunday morning service was great... had a really good time in the afternoon watching the kids having a blast with their cousins... good time of fellowship with the folks... got home in time (well a little late) for Sunday evening service.. the kids had play practice after the service and then...
We saw a really nasty side of someone who has spent some time gossiping about us and spent a good portion of an hour making some ridiculous accusations to Dave and I. Thankfully there was a witness to this as no one would believe the maliciousness of this person. There is no pastor to take this issue to... its a church issue, this person has some serious problems... but we have a mighty God!!! He was able to take this situation and bring good. Dave and I were able to pray about this situation together (sometimes we forget how important that is). This morning we started a new tradition of getting the kids up early to have worship time before Daddy leaves for work! What a great start to the day. The girls were even able to cheerfully get their room COMPLETELY clean by 10:18 this morning. I didn't think that was even humanly possible!
Dave also got some news that has the potential to change the course of our life while freeing us from a situation here that isn't good... without offending anyone. Is it because our family turned to God in prayer knowing this situation was way beyond our control? Absolutely. We wouldn't have dreamed this solution up! It may not happen, but God is moving and when He does we need to get ready!! Its so exciting to see God's hand at work. I'm concerned for this gentleman at church because I don't know what it will take to humble him... God does. He viciously verbally attacked part of the body... and will most likely get a spiritual spanking. I've had some of them and wouldn't want to have another.
I'd best be off to have a shower and check some math...
I'm too excited for words to find out what God has in store for us...
Seems like the wind is starting to change...
God is on the move!
We had a great weekend visiting my folks in Rothesay... played cards until midnight with great friends... my kids were actually in the Santa Clause parade with Mum and Dad's church... Sunday morning service was great... had a really good time in the afternoon watching the kids having a blast with their cousins... good time of fellowship with the folks... got home in time (well a little late) for Sunday evening service.. the kids had play practice after the service and then...
We saw a really nasty side of someone who has spent some time gossiping about us and spent a good portion of an hour making some ridiculous accusations to Dave and I. Thankfully there was a witness to this as no one would believe the maliciousness of this person. There is no pastor to take this issue to... its a church issue, this person has some serious problems... but we have a mighty God!!! He was able to take this situation and bring good. Dave and I were able to pray about this situation together (sometimes we forget how important that is). This morning we started a new tradition of getting the kids up early to have worship time before Daddy leaves for work! What a great start to the day. The girls were even able to cheerfully get their room COMPLETELY clean by 10:18 this morning. I didn't think that was even humanly possible!
Dave also got some news that has the potential to change the course of our life while freeing us from a situation here that isn't good... without offending anyone. Is it because our family turned to God in prayer knowing this situation was way beyond our control? Absolutely. We wouldn't have dreamed this solution up! It may not happen, but God is moving and when He does we need to get ready!! Its so exciting to see God's hand at work. I'm concerned for this gentleman at church because I don't know what it will take to humble him... God does. He viciously verbally attacked part of the body... and will most likely get a spiritual spanking. I've had some of them and wouldn't want to have another.
I'd best be off to have a shower and check some math...
I'm too excited for words to find out what God has in store for us...
Seems like the wind is starting to change...
God is on the move!
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Lots to think about
Wow!! Its been awhile since I blogged last. These last couple weeks are like a blur. We had 2 sets of catalogs to deliver and Justin is teething. That may not sound like much, but Justin is not a great teether... lots of screaming and little sleep.
On a high note....
Dave, Caitlyn and I went to see Merv and Merla Watson tonight. They were so amazing!! I haven't heard music like that for a very long time. There are good musicians and then there are the truely gifted... Merla Watson is truely gifted... perfect pitch, rich tone, violin playing that sends shivers all over.. amazing. They live in Israel and spoke about its past, present and future. They are not Jewish by blood, but in heart. Merv sang the blessing Aaron would have sung over the congregation of Israel... I could never express how very close God was tonight. I'm ready to move right on over to Jerusalem, the Holy City. Caitlyn would like to visit. We all decided if God actually wanted us there, He'd let us know!! Merla has written over 500 songs and has composed music for them which blew us completely away!!
Tiszandra babysat tonight and for the first time in 4 yrs of living here we feel like we have a truely competant, godly babysitter. Matt was even happy and he's NEVER happy with a sitter!
What did I learn tonight?
I need to pray more.
God is much, much bigger, better and more wonderful than I thought before tonight.
Miracles still happen.
God moves fast, get with Him!!
Archaeology is making the rocks cry out to praise God.
Yeshua in Hebrew is the only word with 7 flames on it.
Truth in Hebrew is EMET which is the first, middle and last letters in the Hebrew alphabet. Truth being first, last and everything in between. The first letter in EMET also represents God, when you take it out you get the word MET which means death.
The first 10 generations of men from Adam to Noah have the whold plan of salvation in it. When I get a copy of it I'll post it. I should have thought to take a note pad.
Sometimes I get so caught up in everyday life I forget about the wonderful life we have in Christ. The hope and the future that we have. When Merla was talking about the people returning to live in Israel and the wonderful musicians that are arriving, she told of her dream to bring them together to play music that would be glorifying to Jesus when He returns.
She wants to actually be playing when Christ comes back.
All the other feasts were fulfilled in the New Testament on the anniversary of the feast day. For example the Holy Spirit came on Pentecost to free us from the law on the anniversary of the day the law was given to the people of Israel. Jesus became the firstfruit from the dead on the day the firstfruits were brought to the temple.
It's quite logical to assume that Jesus would come back on the feast of Trumpets, Rosh Hoshana. It is the only Biblical feast that has not been fulfilled in Christ. Its a day set apart to celebrate a new beginning with the Lord... and you blow trumpets!! Pretty cool.
I think I need to learn Hebrew.
There is sooo much to learn.
That is my long rambly blog for today.
It does not express my heart as much as I would like it to.
I do not want to forget tonight.
This was an evening of spiritual encouragement, refreshment and excitement!
I don't ever want to celebrate our pagan celebrations anymore.
Easter has been a sore spot for me after learning its based on the Babylonian cult and represents Ishtar. Christmas actually has nothing to do with Christs birth as he would have been born during the feast of Tabernacles which is in early October.
The Watsons showed a portion of scripture in Isaiah that was a blessing to those outside the Jewish family who partook in the feasts that God ordained. I need to find that verse again!!
Lots to think about.
There ya go South Africa Ruth!!! A long rambly blog.... with no static. Intercontinental phone calls are not always the clearest, eh?
On a high note....
Dave, Caitlyn and I went to see Merv and Merla Watson tonight. They were so amazing!! I haven't heard music like that for a very long time. There are good musicians and then there are the truely gifted... Merla Watson is truely gifted... perfect pitch, rich tone, violin playing that sends shivers all over.. amazing. They live in Israel and spoke about its past, present and future. They are not Jewish by blood, but in heart. Merv sang the blessing Aaron would have sung over the congregation of Israel... I could never express how very close God was tonight. I'm ready to move right on over to Jerusalem, the Holy City. Caitlyn would like to visit. We all decided if God actually wanted us there, He'd let us know!! Merla has written over 500 songs and has composed music for them which blew us completely away!!
Tiszandra babysat tonight and for the first time in 4 yrs of living here we feel like we have a truely competant, godly babysitter. Matt was even happy and he's NEVER happy with a sitter!
What did I learn tonight?
I need to pray more.
God is much, much bigger, better and more wonderful than I thought before tonight.
Miracles still happen.
God moves fast, get with Him!!
Archaeology is making the rocks cry out to praise God.
Yeshua in Hebrew is the only word with 7 flames on it.
Truth in Hebrew is EMET which is the first, middle and last letters in the Hebrew alphabet. Truth being first, last and everything in between. The first letter in EMET also represents God, when you take it out you get the word MET which means death.
The first 10 generations of men from Adam to Noah have the whold plan of salvation in it. When I get a copy of it I'll post it. I should have thought to take a note pad.
Sometimes I get so caught up in everyday life I forget about the wonderful life we have in Christ. The hope and the future that we have. When Merla was talking about the people returning to live in Israel and the wonderful musicians that are arriving, she told of her dream to bring them together to play music that would be glorifying to Jesus when He returns.
She wants to actually be playing when Christ comes back.
All the other feasts were fulfilled in the New Testament on the anniversary of the feast day. For example the Holy Spirit came on Pentecost to free us from the law on the anniversary of the day the law was given to the people of Israel. Jesus became the firstfruit from the dead on the day the firstfruits were brought to the temple.
It's quite logical to assume that Jesus would come back on the feast of Trumpets, Rosh Hoshana. It is the only Biblical feast that has not been fulfilled in Christ. Its a day set apart to celebrate a new beginning with the Lord... and you blow trumpets!! Pretty cool.
I think I need to learn Hebrew.
There is sooo much to learn.
That is my long rambly blog for today.
It does not express my heart as much as I would like it to.
I do not want to forget tonight.
This was an evening of spiritual encouragement, refreshment and excitement!
I don't ever want to celebrate our pagan celebrations anymore.
Easter has been a sore spot for me after learning its based on the Babylonian cult and represents Ishtar. Christmas actually has nothing to do with Christs birth as he would have been born during the feast of Tabernacles which is in early October.
The Watsons showed a portion of scripture in Isaiah that was a blessing to those outside the Jewish family who partook in the feasts that God ordained. I need to find that verse again!!
Lots to think about.
There ya go South Africa Ruth!!! A long rambly blog.... with no static. Intercontinental phone calls are not always the clearest, eh?
Monday, November 06, 2006
SNOW!!!!!
I was so pumped to dive into the new school stuff today, but was usurped big time by the white stuff pouring from the heavens.... FIRST SNOW!!
I hollered for the kids to get up, fill the woodbox and go out and play.
There wasn't really enough snow for gazoodles of fun, but my kids are creative.
They got out the wheelbarrow and transported snow from all over to the steps in the front yard... and went sliding. What a hoot! There isn't enough snow to cover the grass.. well maybe by now... but we have a sliding "hill" out there!!!
The kids from next door came over and they had a ball.
I forgot about wet ski pants, mittens and boots everywhere.
But I also forgot how great a fire is when its REALLY cold and snowy out there.
I guess they balance out.
I'm glad it didn't snow yesterday!!
I'm thrilled it snowed today.
Dave called 4 times from traffic cuz he was bored.
I forgot about 1st snow accidents.
Muffin business is picking up. I need to get these kids on their school work so I can work on my brochure!! I'm so far out of my comfort zone. How on earth do you make a brochure?? Dave showed me where to go on the computer.. I have a degree in marketing and communications.. I love what I do... I love to write stuff.. How can this be so scary??
My good friend Diane will even put it together if I get her all the info I want on the brochure. I just need to be businesslike... a little more formal... choose my words carefully... and then scrap it all to just say what I mean and how I would really say it... I'm soooo formal after all!!!
Ok here I go...
stuff to do...
wasting time...
I hollered for the kids to get up, fill the woodbox and go out and play.
There wasn't really enough snow for gazoodles of fun, but my kids are creative.
They got out the wheelbarrow and transported snow from all over to the steps in the front yard... and went sliding. What a hoot! There isn't enough snow to cover the grass.. well maybe by now... but we have a sliding "hill" out there!!!
The kids from next door came over and they had a ball.
I forgot about wet ski pants, mittens and boots everywhere.
But I also forgot how great a fire is when its REALLY cold and snowy out there.
I guess they balance out.
I'm glad it didn't snow yesterday!!
I'm thrilled it snowed today.
Dave called 4 times from traffic cuz he was bored.
I forgot about 1st snow accidents.
Muffin business is picking up. I need to get these kids on their school work so I can work on my brochure!! I'm so far out of my comfort zone. How on earth do you make a brochure?? Dave showed me where to go on the computer.. I have a degree in marketing and communications.. I love what I do... I love to write stuff.. How can this be so scary??
My good friend Diane will even put it together if I get her all the info I want on the brochure. I just need to be businesslike... a little more formal... choose my words carefully... and then scrap it all to just say what I mean and how I would really say it... I'm soooo formal after all!!!
Ok here I go...
stuff to do...
wasting time...
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Mainiac Weekend!!
We just got back from having a wonderful weekend in Maine. I changed the babies, made sure they were tucked in and immediately had to catch up here!!
Ok, I had been away for 48 hours and had no idea of the conversations going on in blogland.
My oldest and dearest friend, Joy married a Mainiac and then became one... we still love her! They have 4 sweet daughters who are special friends of my kids. This is one family who exude hospitality. They sold thier large home and are living in a tiny 2 bedroom minihome until they can build their home in the spring, YET.. they welcomed us all to visit. Imagine 4 adults and 11 kids enjoying meals and fellowship in such quarters... BUT WE DID!!! We had a ball. Molly did not want to come home... neither did Caitlyn, her kindred spirit lives there!! Yes, Jade, that would be you!!
On the way down to Maine the clouds were very dark and low... snow clouds. We had to drive an hour north of Fredericton to drive down to Newport and I was a little nervous to drive in the snow. God had other ideas for us. He put on this incredible show of light showers. Y'all know about rain showers, but ever see a light shower?? Its when there is a perfect break in the clouds and a shower of light streams down bright against the rest of the clouds. Every time we saw one we told God what a great job He did... and He just kept outdoing Himself!! I had no idea there were SOOOO many different types of light showers!
Yes, it did snow. 3 little tiny flurries that got the kids wild about ideas of snowmen and sliding... but it was nothing that could sit on the road!
We are home safe and sound. Everyone is asleep except me.... Dave and baby Justin on the chair behind me... I could take a picture of that... I did.... and woke Dave up! ooops!
Ok, I had been away for 48 hours and had no idea of the conversations going on in blogland.
My oldest and dearest friend, Joy married a Mainiac and then became one... we still love her! They have 4 sweet daughters who are special friends of my kids. This is one family who exude hospitality. They sold thier large home and are living in a tiny 2 bedroom minihome until they can build their home in the spring, YET.. they welcomed us all to visit. Imagine 4 adults and 11 kids enjoying meals and fellowship in such quarters... BUT WE DID!!! We had a ball. Molly did not want to come home... neither did Caitlyn, her kindred spirit lives there!! Yes, Jade, that would be you!!
On the way down to Maine the clouds were very dark and low... snow clouds. We had to drive an hour north of Fredericton to drive down to Newport and I was a little nervous to drive in the snow. God had other ideas for us. He put on this incredible show of light showers. Y'all know about rain showers, but ever see a light shower?? Its when there is a perfect break in the clouds and a shower of light streams down bright against the rest of the clouds. Every time we saw one we told God what a great job He did... and He just kept outdoing Himself!! I had no idea there were SOOOO many different types of light showers!
Yes, it did snow. 3 little tiny flurries that got the kids wild about ideas of snowmen and sliding... but it was nothing that could sit on the road!
We are home safe and sound. Everyone is asleep except me.... Dave and baby Justin on the chair behind me... I could take a picture of that... I did.... and woke Dave up! ooops!
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