I LOVE spring. The feeling in the air of NEWNESS, of the world coming a love again. I am sitting here with my windows and doors open LOVING the fresh breeze!
Thanks Lord for the amazing changing seasons.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Friday, March 30, 2007
Blessing #16
I love living in Canada. There are so many things that we Could complain about, but when compared to the rest of the world.... Canada ROCKS. We have amazing scenery, peace, the changing seasons are my favourite.
I was talking to one of the ladies at lifegroup and she had just come back from Florida and was missing the weather. As nice as it would be to have good weather all the time, I think that I would miss the changing seasons. There is just enough ADD in me to need something different to look forward to in 4 months from now. Whether is it the end of the cold and snow, the end of sweltering heat or just the changing leaves. I love the different seasons and the changes that each brings.
I was talking to one of the ladies at lifegroup and she had just come back from Florida and was missing the weather. As nice as it would be to have good weather all the time, I think that I would miss the changing seasons. There is just enough ADD in me to need something different to look forward to in 4 months from now. Whether is it the end of the cold and snow, the end of sweltering heat or just the changing leaves. I love the different seasons and the changes that each brings.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Dreams
One of the reasons I LOVE community is because there are always people around who will support your dream and will benefit from your support. I know that with every step forward in my life there is a host standing behind me praying, moving the right pieces into place and keeping the wrong things away.
It doesn't seem to matter what I think that I accomplished, if I really looked closely I would see that in the spiritual and in the natural there are people making everything happen in the right timing.
There is a commercial that I saw that illustrates this idea perfectly! It is from Budweiser and it is a beautiful representation of supporting one another.
Here is the link:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8uKEq-i7J4
I couldn't figure out how to post it to the blog (and it wasn't WISE for me to keep trying !)
It doesn't seem to matter what I think that I accomplished, if I really looked closely I would see that in the spiritual and in the natural there are people making everything happen in the right timing.
There is a commercial that I saw that illustrates this idea perfectly! It is from Budweiser and it is a beautiful representation of supporting one another.
Here is the link:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8uKEq-i7J4
I couldn't figure out how to post it to the blog (and it wasn't WISE for me to keep trying !)
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
When God Moves
I am learning the value of praying a prayer and then just waiting with heart and eyes open for the answer to prayer. Often it doesn't happen in the way that I expect or maybe even desire, but it ALWAYS comes.
It happened with a weight-loss program, it happened with a new opportunity and now it has happened again.
I felt a while ago that I needed to fast TV. I will admit that I was afraid of what that would mean. It sounds stupid to even say it, but the TV helps me occupy my time. As a single person often it is the only other voice I hear.
I have been looking for the right opportunity to fast TV, not just for the sake of it, but to really accomplish something. As well, I have been praying about a deeper more intimate walk with the Lord. I know that intimacy takes time, and if that time is spent in front of the TV, it is difficult to build that intimacy.
God, in His grace, and beauty has answered a acouple of prayers with the same event. As a cast Kim encouraged us to fast something and pray for the people who will be coming to see The Nails. Today, I decided to fast TV.
Wouldn't you know, I had difficulty getting to sleep last night, something wasn't right, I slipped out of bed and onto the floor. I worshipped and prayed with depth and passion that I haven't known in a long time, I am ashamed to say that it is a long time since I had a moment like that.
If that is going to be the experience each day... WOW!!!
Thanks God for your amazing abundant grace.
It happened with a weight-loss program, it happened with a new opportunity and now it has happened again.
I felt a while ago that I needed to fast TV. I will admit that I was afraid of what that would mean. It sounds stupid to even say it, but the TV helps me occupy my time. As a single person often it is the only other voice I hear.
I have been looking for the right opportunity to fast TV, not just for the sake of it, but to really accomplish something. As well, I have been praying about a deeper more intimate walk with the Lord. I know that intimacy takes time, and if that time is spent in front of the TV, it is difficult to build that intimacy.
God, in His grace, and beauty has answered a acouple of prayers with the same event. As a cast Kim encouraged us to fast something and pray for the people who will be coming to see The Nails. Today, I decided to fast TV.
Wouldn't you know, I had difficulty getting to sleep last night, something wasn't right, I slipped out of bed and onto the floor. I worshipped and prayed with depth and passion that I haven't known in a long time, I am ashamed to say that it is a long time since I had a moment like that.
If that is going to be the experience each day... WOW!!!
Thanks God for your amazing abundant grace.
Monday, March 26, 2007
My Facebook realization
Within the last 3 weeks my view of the world has changed. Not the global world just my world. I began to hear about 'FACEBOOK'. I began to watch it suck time and productivity from the co-workers around me. I saw as they looked at (and mocked) pictures of other's friends and got a private glimpse into their lives.
I thought that Facebook was a bad idea. Not in and of itself, but for me personally. There are those around who already think that I share too much of who I am through this blog, and while I understand their point I make sure to keep this blog separate from other aspects of my world.
To me, Facebook was ANOTHER layer of exposure that I didn't really want. And then it began...... I started to connect with people I hadn't seen in a long time, see the people in common. I was still hesitant though to put my picture up and really get involved. I said that I wanted to keep work and personal separate, and that was true... but what I found myself Really Thinking was, "I don't live my life the way other people I work with do and I don't want their content to be linked with mine".
I was concerned about 'my image' and 'my brand' if you will. I realized that I didn't want my church friends to think that I associated on a personal level with some of the poeple at work, whose lifestyles don't represent who I am.
I realized this morning though, that Jesus wasn't afraid to tarnish His image, He wasn't afraid of what others might think. He simply went out, hung out and changed people's lives.
This doesn't mean that I have to go and do what they do, but I will now count it an honour when someone from work, invites me into their network, it means that those who need the Lord, have a connecting point through my life.
I loved what Pastor Barry said yesterday in the service about the Nails. "If this sanctuary is filled with Christians, we are not going to do the play anymore" . It was his call to us to fill the pews with those who NEED to hear the message of the Cross.
I thought that Facebook was a bad idea. Not in and of itself, but for me personally. There are those around who already think that I share too much of who I am through this blog, and while I understand their point I make sure to keep this blog separate from other aspects of my world.
To me, Facebook was ANOTHER layer of exposure that I didn't really want. And then it began...... I started to connect with people I hadn't seen in a long time, see the people in common. I was still hesitant though to put my picture up and really get involved. I said that I wanted to keep work and personal separate, and that was true... but what I found myself Really Thinking was, "I don't live my life the way other people I work with do and I don't want their content to be linked with mine".
I was concerned about 'my image' and 'my brand' if you will. I realized that I didn't want my church friends to think that I associated on a personal level with some of the poeple at work, whose lifestyles don't represent who I am.
I realized this morning though, that Jesus wasn't afraid to tarnish His image, He wasn't afraid of what others might think. He simply went out, hung out and changed people's lives.
This doesn't mean that I have to go and do what they do, but I will now count it an honour when someone from work, invites me into their network, it means that those who need the Lord, have a connecting point through my life.
I loved what Pastor Barry said yesterday in the service about the Nails. "If this sanctuary is filled with Christians, we are not going to do the play anymore" . It was his call to us to fill the pews with those who NEED to hear the message of the Cross.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Coming down to the Wire
It is almost time for Easter!!! And that means an amazing opportunity to tell the story of Jesus. It is humbling to be part of the telling of the the most important story ever!
Invite everyone you know!!!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Girly Girls and Manly Men
Tonight I had an amazing time! We had a games night at Tracy and Aerie's.
I thought that this meant we were going to be playing board games. Instead, we played poker (for no money) and then the girls played the game of getting our pictures taken. I felt like a kid again! We giggled and laughed and goofed around, and the men talked about guy stuff. Then we we did what every group of people do. We spent close to an hour sitting on the floor in the front foyer with our coats on having the most indepth conversation of the whole NIGHT!!!
I love getting to know "new" people and learning more about those I have known for a long time!
Love it.
I thought that this meant we were going to be playing board games. Instead, we played poker (for no money) and then the girls played the game of getting our pictures taken. I felt like a kid again! We giggled and laughed and goofed around, and the men talked about guy stuff. Then we we did what every group of people do. We spent close to an hour sitting on the floor in the front foyer with our coats on having the most indepth conversation of the whole NIGHT!!!
I love getting to know "new" people and learning more about those I have known for a long time!
Love it.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Blessing #15
I love spring!!!
Today's blessing is the beautiful weather, I came home tonight, in the bright sunlight, to find that kids were outside playing!!
I LOVE it
Today's blessing is the beautiful weather, I came home tonight, in the bright sunlight, to find that kids were outside playing!!
I LOVE it
Thursday, March 22, 2007
What makes a Warrior?
It seems odd to write about warriors on a blog that pirmarily is read by women, however, I am struck by an interesting question.
What is a warrior? What makes a warrior?
Tonight while watching TV, I saw 2 shows with Warrior themes. The boys on Survivor called themselves warriors, and on the show Friday Night Lights, I watched as warriors navigated life off the field.
On Survivor, there was a conflict about who to vote off (as there always is), and the newly formed tribe of all men, had to decide between the brash, volatile strong member and the weaker but more even-keeled member of thier tribe. Who to keep? Whose resources would take the tribe the furthest. It was interesting to watch as physically strong men debated about the value of brawn over an even-keel.
In friday Night Lights, a group of teenaged football players (who look more grown up than anyone I remember from highschool) and their coach navigate through life in small town Texas, where God and football hold an almost equal place (although if push came to shove I think that Football would win every time!). The players are heroes-warriors- and as the football team goes, so goes the town. I love this show because apart from being a show that promotes good values and isn't afraid of having a character call themselves 'sinner', it showcases one of the most inspiring cultures in our day-the football culture.
There is something about football. It captures the imagination, it is inspiring. I love football movies and I love movies about boys growing through circumstances and coming out as a team. I love the idea that you sacrifice for the team, that you put all you have into the game, and leave everything on the field.
Many times, ultimately, the success of the goal is dependant not on the coaches, but how the team gels and how the players inspire one another.
How would our churches be different if we all wore a jersey and took on an opponent with the possibility of injury? Would we play harder or would we shrink to the sides and let the other team trample us. Too often as Christians we seek to meek, because we think it is holier.
I think though, that if Jesus were alive today, and played a sport, it wouldn't be tennis, or soccer, or baseball, those are all too genteel. I am sure that the table-turning, cross-bearing, stand up against the whole system, Jesus that I serve would likely have been an O-line slugger, big, bulky and powerful. This is the God who said that the "Kingdom suffers violence and the violent take it by force".
It is not all about the brawn though, we don't just need the chest-pounding brutes who can take out the D-line. We also need strategic runners who can be in position, who can read the changing play and who can respond to conditions that are unexpected. We need thinkers, doers, and the strong ones to stand in front and protect the quarterback.
What is a warrior? Someone with the integrity to do what is right, the strength to make their presence known and a strategic mindset to think on their feet and anticipate what the 'Coach' is wanting to accomplish.
Let's get a Kingdom mindset. Where is the enemy feeling our presence? Let's get it going!
Bring on the Warriors!
What is a warrior? What makes a warrior?
Tonight while watching TV, I saw 2 shows with Warrior themes. The boys on Survivor called themselves warriors, and on the show Friday Night Lights, I watched as warriors navigated life off the field.
On Survivor, there was a conflict about who to vote off (as there always is), and the newly formed tribe of all men, had to decide between the brash, volatile strong member and the weaker but more even-keeled member of thier tribe. Who to keep? Whose resources would take the tribe the furthest. It was interesting to watch as physically strong men debated about the value of brawn over an even-keel.
In friday Night Lights, a group of teenaged football players (who look more grown up than anyone I remember from highschool) and their coach navigate through life in small town Texas, where God and football hold an almost equal place (although if push came to shove I think that Football would win every time!). The players are heroes-warriors- and as the football team goes, so goes the town. I love this show because apart from being a show that promotes good values and isn't afraid of having a character call themselves 'sinner', it showcases one of the most inspiring cultures in our day-the football culture.
There is something about football. It captures the imagination, it is inspiring. I love football movies and I love movies about boys growing through circumstances and coming out as a team. I love the idea that you sacrifice for the team, that you put all you have into the game, and leave everything on the field.
Many times, ultimately, the success of the goal is dependant not on the coaches, but how the team gels and how the players inspire one another.
How would our churches be different if we all wore a jersey and took on an opponent with the possibility of injury? Would we play harder or would we shrink to the sides and let the other team trample us. Too often as Christians we seek to meek, because we think it is holier.
I think though, that if Jesus were alive today, and played a sport, it wouldn't be tennis, or soccer, or baseball, those are all too genteel. I am sure that the table-turning, cross-bearing, stand up against the whole system, Jesus that I serve would likely have been an O-line slugger, big, bulky and powerful. This is the God who said that the "Kingdom suffers violence and the violent take it by force".
It is not all about the brawn though, we don't just need the chest-pounding brutes who can take out the D-line. We also need strategic runners who can be in position, who can read the changing play and who can respond to conditions that are unexpected. We need thinkers, doers, and the strong ones to stand in front and protect the quarterback.
What is a warrior? Someone with the integrity to do what is right, the strength to make their presence known and a strategic mindset to think on their feet and anticipate what the 'Coach' is wanting to accomplish.
Let's get a Kingdom mindset. Where is the enemy feeling our presence? Let's get it going!
Bring on the Warriors!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Blessing # 14
I had the amazing privilege of spending time with one of the ladies from work. She is a fabulous beautiful woman who is 21 and figuring out her life. I admire her beauty and desire for greatness. I am inspired by her youthful idealism-anything is possible in her world, and more than that she 'deserves' the best.
Mostly though, I am humbled by God's grace, that He has given me wisdom to speak into her life. It is interesting to see when someone really 'hears' what you have to say. I feel like given the right people around her, she could catapult over all of our previous mistakes and take her life to a whole level we in our healing process can only dream about.
AND... she is not a Christian.... please pray for her
Mostly though, I am humbled by God's grace, that He has given me wisdom to speak into her life. It is interesting to see when someone really 'hears' what you have to say. I feel like given the right people around her, she could catapult over all of our previous mistakes and take her life to a whole level we in our healing process can only dream about.
AND... she is not a Christian.... please pray for her
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Blessing #13
I am having a bit of an "off' day. Not sure what the deal is.. but here's the blessing!
I know that whatever I am going through, I don't go through it alone. Jesus is one who is "familliar with sorrow and aquainted with grief". I wouldn't call what I am feeling anything even close to 'sorrow' or grief but knowing Jesus knows all about it makes me feel like my 'off' day is still in His hands and plans and that tomorrow will be better!
As well, I know that tomorrow evening I will be surrounded by amazing women in our life group.
I know that whatever I am going through, I don't go through it alone. Jesus is one who is "familliar with sorrow and aquainted with grief". I wouldn't call what I am feeling anything even close to 'sorrow' or grief but knowing Jesus knows all about it makes me feel like my 'off' day is still in His hands and plans and that tomorrow will be better!
As well, I know that tomorrow evening I will be surrounded by amazing women in our life group.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Blessing 12- taken care of!
What a great day!
All day long I felt very taken care of! Hanging out at the lake with parents who are so generous! My choice of special breakfast, then hanging out, chatting and sitting in front of a roaring fire with a card game! Love it.
As I gathered up my things to leave the Lake, my father took my keys, cleaned the snow off my car and let it warm up! I haven't gotten into a warm car in a LONG time!
Then tonight, a new friend offered to drive to a very fun time of bowling! I offered gas money but she wouldn't take it!
What a nice time of having my needs met!
Thanks God!
All day long I felt very taken care of! Hanging out at the lake with parents who are so generous! My choice of special breakfast, then hanging out, chatting and sitting in front of a roaring fire with a card game! Love it.
As I gathered up my things to leave the Lake, my father took my keys, cleaned the snow off my car and let it warm up! I haven't gotten into a warm car in a LONG time!
Then tonight, a new friend offered to drive to a very fun time of bowling! I offered gas money but she wouldn't take it!
What a nice time of having my needs met!
Thanks God!
Blessing #11
I awoke this morning, beside a lake, the new snow had blanketed the ground, giving it a fresh face.
We spent about 1 hour watching the birdies at the various feeders.
It is amazing experience to experience nature up close with those who take the time to enjoy the animals. To them each has its own habits and personality. You are never alone in this world if you take the time to get to know the birds and the squirrels.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Blessing #9 (Backtracking)
I am so blessed to have an amazing family. It has been a few weeks since I have seen my dad and step-mother... all week I have been antcipating the visit!
Love it
Love it
Which trail Leads up??
How do we find the right balance?
What is God really calling us to?
I have often tried to lose weight, I have tried different methods and plans, all of them have failed because the common denominator in each of them is to remove something completely from your life and eating habits. Then there is TV. I love to watch TV, I love the stories and the characters.
In each case, what feels most 'holy' is to learn to abstain completely, the problem with this is that the spirit is willing and the flesh is weak. I am a tenacious (some say stubborn) person in most areas, however, in denying myself something that I enjoy is not one of them. I have in the past always failed, and as a result always felt as though I was letting God down.
My greatest desire is not to be successful in denying myself what is not good for me but rather to train myself to desire that which is beneficial. There has to be a replacement for what is being given up. If I desired salad over chocolate, my problems would be solved!!
There are a couple of major life changes that I feel God is calling me to. I am beoming intensly aware of the amount of TV that I watch and more importantly the effect that it has on my spirit and my time. There are nights when even though I am tired, and that I have to get up in morning, I stay up to watch a program. At the end of it, I am disappointed in myself and feel as though I have let God down- again. There is a side of me that wants to be able to turn off the TV forever and chuck it out the window. That is the Pharisee in me... I say that because I know that I would then wear no TV like a badge of honour, and it would become about not watching TV and not about following the heart of God.
Which path will get me where I know God wants me to go?
There seems to be a thread of change occurring in the ladies of Life Centre... probably the men too but I am not as tapped into that... most of that life breakthrough seems to come out of fasting. I am ready to go to the next level.
I have picked up my gear and I am looking to the trail guide to point the next direction.
Have a great weekend.
What is God really calling us to?
I have often tried to lose weight, I have tried different methods and plans, all of them have failed because the common denominator in each of them is to remove something completely from your life and eating habits. Then there is TV. I love to watch TV, I love the stories and the characters.
In each case, what feels most 'holy' is to learn to abstain completely, the problem with this is that the spirit is willing and the flesh is weak. I am a tenacious (some say stubborn) person in most areas, however, in denying myself something that I enjoy is not one of them. I have in the past always failed, and as a result always felt as though I was letting God down.
My greatest desire is not to be successful in denying myself what is not good for me but rather to train myself to desire that which is beneficial. There has to be a replacement for what is being given up. If I desired salad over chocolate, my problems would be solved!!
There are a couple of major life changes that I feel God is calling me to. I am beoming intensly aware of the amount of TV that I watch and more importantly the effect that it has on my spirit and my time. There are nights when even though I am tired, and that I have to get up in morning, I stay up to watch a program. At the end of it, I am disappointed in myself and feel as though I have let God down- again. There is a side of me that wants to be able to turn off the TV forever and chuck it out the window. That is the Pharisee in me... I say that because I know that I would then wear no TV like a badge of honour, and it would become about not watching TV and not about following the heart of God.
Which path will get me where I know God wants me to go?
There seems to be a thread of change occurring in the ladies of Life Centre... probably the men too but I am not as tapped into that... most of that life breakthrough seems to come out of fasting. I am ready to go to the next level.
I have picked up my gear and I am looking to the trail guide to point the next direction.
Have a great weekend.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Blessing #10
Last night I went to a LifeGroup with a whole bunch of ladies. We had an amazing time!! We shared, we laughed, we learned. It was so great to see people step out in Faith to believe the good things for other people. For some it was their first time connecting faith to prayer. This is transforming!!
The primary blessing was getting to know some of the women better, hearing their joys & pains.... cue MC Hammer!
I realized after about an hour of chatting and laughing, that it has been a long time since I breathed the fresh air of a new friend. People you get to know better through conversation can surprise and delight you!
I thank God for His familiy of Warrior Women who can come from every race, background and station in life and yet manage to find the common ground! I love it...
Thanks Ladies for being so generous with your firendship.
The primary blessing was getting to know some of the women better, hearing their joys & pains.... cue MC Hammer!
I realized after about an hour of chatting and laughing, that it has been a long time since I breathed the fresh air of a new friend. People you get to know better through conversation can surprise and delight you!
I thank God for His familiy of Warrior Women who can come from every race, background and station in life and yet manage to find the common ground! I love it...
Thanks Ladies for being so generous with your firendship.
OK OK OK I feel the LOVE!
Tracy! My friend...... has proven to me that she is committed to commenting! To the tune of 20 comments!
You are an investor Tracy..... I love that you know how much comments can uplift a blogging girl's day. It feels pretty great to see "20 comments" beside a blog.... even if it IS a shameless plea for attention!!!!!!!!!!
I also learned that there cyber-spectators who read but never comment! I love it!
You are an investor Tracy..... I love that you know how much comments can uplift a blogging girl's day. It feels pretty great to see "20 comments" beside a blog.... even if it IS a shameless plea for attention!!!!!!!!!!
I also learned that there cyber-spectators who read but never comment! I love it!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Was it something I said???
OK ladies and gentlemen (is that better Gary??)... I am not feelin' the love.... what's with no comments???
Blessing #8
WOW.. Spring really has sprung. The blessing is that this morning when taking out my garbage, I was more worried about mud than frostbite!!
I LOVE SPRING.........
Monday, March 12, 2007
Different thinking on the Mountainside
In the midst of a process of change in our lives there are often heart issues that need resolution before we can begin to address the behaviours. In other circumstances, there is not only a heart issue but also a situation where a change in your thinking needs to take place. Often times, I have found that this is the hardest step of all. It is the part of the process that trips up great people and keeps them going around and around the mountain of their walk. I have revisted the same situations and patterns repeatedly because I didn't rely on God to change my thinking.
I am passionate about learning from great leaders. I love it when you get a glimpse of the thought process behind an action. I suppose that is why Blogging is such an amazing tool. Reading as Lori , Tracy, Tim Sanders or Jason share about the process they are going through, I feel like they have opened a door and let us see inside their hearts and minds. There is so much power in the way that we think. I have watched in amazement as my own plans and dreams and desires fall underfoot when exposed to the harsh realities of my own insecurities and fears. The scripture "as a man thinks in his heart, so he is" is so true! I have had so many life changing ideas, strategies and plans that in the light of day fade to impossibility because I allow my thoughts to derail me.
When change is on the horizon of my life, I am trying to learn a better way. I have found it helpful to think ahead and begining to try to anticipate how I will react in my spirit and mind. Last summer 2 ladies I know ran a marathon. As they talked me through what it was like, I realized that they had done their mental homework. One talked of bringing earphones and music because she knew that there would be monotonous miles of pavement, and she knew that if they talked the whole time it would drain their energy. They had put thought into the obstacles that they might encounter on the way. We also this anytime that we travel, we think ahead and look for possible situations and try to take steps to meet those situations head on.
Often as I watch an athlete take the field (or ice), or when I see an actor accept a major award, I begin to try and imagine what that feels like to achieve a major dream. What does the hockey player think when his name is announced for the first time during an NHL game? Does he remember all the summer afternoons playing ball hockey, in his mind defeating his role models?
I know that there must be something different in the way that they think, because otherwise greatness would not be theirs.
I have begun to implement this idea into major life changes. Ultimately God sees us through and leads us and guides us, however, I think that it greatly increases our chances for success if we try to anticipate the challenges we will face, and then set up a guard of prayer around those moments. Trouble is inevitable and challenge will always be a part of our walk. However, I believe that we can be one step ahead and pray through these situations rather than allow them to catch us offguard.
Is there a mountain you have revisited many times?
I am passionate about learning from great leaders. I love it when you get a glimpse of the thought process behind an action. I suppose that is why Blogging is such an amazing tool. Reading as Lori , Tracy, Tim Sanders or Jason share about the process they are going through, I feel like they have opened a door and let us see inside their hearts and minds. There is so much power in the way that we think. I have watched in amazement as my own plans and dreams and desires fall underfoot when exposed to the harsh realities of my own insecurities and fears. The scripture "as a man thinks in his heart, so he is" is so true! I have had so many life changing ideas, strategies and plans that in the light of day fade to impossibility because I allow my thoughts to derail me.
When change is on the horizon of my life, I am trying to learn a better way. I have found it helpful to think ahead and begining to try to anticipate how I will react in my spirit and mind. Last summer 2 ladies I know ran a marathon. As they talked me through what it was like, I realized that they had done their mental homework. One talked of bringing earphones and music because she knew that there would be monotonous miles of pavement, and she knew that if they talked the whole time it would drain their energy. They had put thought into the obstacles that they might encounter on the way. We also this anytime that we travel, we think ahead and look for possible situations and try to take steps to meet those situations head on.
Often as I watch an athlete take the field (or ice), or when I see an actor accept a major award, I begin to try and imagine what that feels like to achieve a major dream. What does the hockey player think when his name is announced for the first time during an NHL game? Does he remember all the summer afternoons playing ball hockey, in his mind defeating his role models?
I know that there must be something different in the way that they think, because otherwise greatness would not be theirs.
I have begun to implement this idea into major life changes. Ultimately God sees us through and leads us and guides us, however, I think that it greatly increases our chances for success if we try to anticipate the challenges we will face, and then set up a guard of prayer around those moments. Trouble is inevitable and challenge will always be a part of our walk. However, I believe that we can be one step ahead and pray through these situations rather than allow them to catch us offguard.
Is there a mountain you have revisited many times?
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Blessing #7
An amazing morning of Worship. Leeland is anointed of God!
For those who missed it..... think of them as the next U2 with the heart of Delirious
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Blessing # 6
On Thursday, work was slow and so we got out early. I love "found time". I always get more done in found time than when I schedule time.
During my found time, I went to the mall to pick up some things that I needed and got a REALLY great deal on some amazing hair products.
During my found time, I went to the mall to pick up some things that I needed and got a REALLY great deal on some amazing hair products.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Heart then Action
We have been talking about the process of change. How sometimes we get to those moments in our lives when we stop and rest and then stay. I have found that when I am in a place I don't want to be and that "itchy" feeling comes over me to move ahead in the purposes of God, there is a process even to responding to God's calling.
I believe that there are 2 types of obedience:
1)response required immediately- These are the moments when God asks you to walk across a room and touch someone's life. Or when there is a clear command to stop and change. If God speaks to you and expects IMMEDIATE response, to not respond is the same as disobedience.
2)obedience to change: this is a call to a major paradigm shift in your heart. A new direction or calling. Like someone who feels the call of God to the mission field. There is a whole long process that has to be undertaken in order to do that well. To suddenly get on a plane to Africa with no passport, medication, financial support or even a landing place would be stupid.
Sometimes, I think that we hear the Voice of the Lord leading us into major life changes without putting in the homework required to do that life change well. There was a Message that Jay preached about this very subject. The biggest take away for me was that God is always more interested in changing our hearts than our behaviours. If God is prompting you to lose weight, it is because there is a heart issue that could be keeping you from the fullest relationship with God. To short change the process for a heart issue and deal only with the behaviour can be frustrating and cause us to need to revisit that place to learn the heart issues.
Are there pending acts of obedience that require a process?
1)response required immediately- These are the moments when God asks you to walk across a room and touch someone's life. Or when there is a clear command to stop and change. If God speaks to you and expects IMMEDIATE response, to not respond is the same as disobedience.
2)obedience to change: this is a call to a major paradigm shift in your heart. A new direction or calling. Like someone who feels the call of God to the mission field. There is a whole long process that has to be undertaken in order to do that well. To suddenly get on a plane to Africa with no passport, medication, financial support or even a landing place would be stupid.
Sometimes, I think that we hear the Voice of the Lord leading us into major life changes without putting in the homework required to do that life change well. There was a Message that Jay preached about this very subject. The biggest take away for me was that God is always more interested in changing our hearts than our behaviours. If God is prompting you to lose weight, it is because there is a heart issue that could be keeping you from the fullest relationship with God. To short change the process for a heart issue and deal only with the behaviour can be frustrating and cause us to need to revisit that place to learn the heart issues.
Are there pending acts of obedience that require a process?
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Itching to move forward
As wonderful as resting points are in our lives there inevitably comes a point when we get bored. We look around and see that others have continued the climb and are calling down that the view is even better. I am beginning to experience a period of discontenment in my life, I feel as though what has been worked out in my life and heart, while amazing, has lost the lustre of new discovery.
I suppose that it would be easy to become like the Isrealites and complain and seem to forget what God has accomplished in me, but I have learned that this feeling is just the beginning of a process. It is that feeling that there must be more.This feeling leads us to discover that there is always more in God. Eventually, we find ourselves in a catalytic moment. Where an event or a decision will launch us into the next stage of the journey. I know that we have all felt this at some point. Ladies, I sometimes compare it to PMS. If you are not paying attention, those cranky days and the mood swings are confusing until 1 week later when the cause of the turmoil is remembered and suddenly the issues that loomed large the week before take on thier due perspective.
It is a sign of a maturing faith when we can see these "symptoms" early on and accept them for what they are... part of the process. Right now, in my life I have that uncomfortable feeling. That time when what was stable and peaceful has become boring. The natural response to this feeling is to begin change. To set up new ideas and guidlines for our lives. "I am going to get up and spend time in the word." or many other statements that begin with "Tomorrow I'm gonna...". Some of us go shopping, change our hair or any other natural action to change where we are to where we think we need to be. The problem though is too often this change is temporary and relies on our feelings. When that happens we lose hope and we question God and our own ability to hear His voice.
I have come to realize that the reason I fail in those moments is because I haven't waited for the timing of God. More on that later.
What action do you take when you feel like your life has plateaued?
I have come to realize that the reason I fail in those moments is because I haven't waited for the timing of God. More on that later.
What action do you take when you feel like your life has plateaued?
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Plateaus have Great views
There has been much discussion within "The Blogger's Guild" (this is an unofficial band of women within TLC who blog) about the journeys we have been on and how God has been bringing us to a deeper place in Him.
Every once in a while I know that there are Plateau in our walk with God. Those places of rest after a long struggle to conquer the next thing God has us to conquer. I know that these are important places of rest and resupply for the next push to the summit.
It is easy however to forget that these places are temporary stopping points on a journey. If we stay there we die-harsh I know but true. In the natural, climbers don't take enough supplies to stay in any one spot for too long. In our spiritual life, however, there is a temptation to have that "I've arrived" feeling about what we have just walked through.
When I first started Blogging, I was on an upward climb. What I was experiencing in my life was tough slugging. I was climbing. Then I reached a resting point. A point where I can see the sights, amaze at the wonder of God, and be happy with the progress I am making. Here's the thing though. If you have ever stood midway up a mountain ir a hill, in order to see where you have come from requires that you turn and put your back to the mountain. This effectively blocks the summit from your sight!! I have spent too long revelling in where He has brought me up from, that I had temporarily forgotten that there is another journey ahead.
I cannot even imagine the personal fortitude it takes in the natural for a climber to set aside what has gone before and to mentally prepare for what will most likely be an even more difficult climb ahead. I know though, spiritually what it is taking for me to fix my eyes on the goal and to ready myself for the next level.
Like many of you God is calling me to another level.
More to come!!
*Paul Huggins took the picture at Mount Tremblant
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Blessing # 5
I am so thankful to God for the people He has bought into my life!!
The coolest part of being from such a diverse family as the Family of God, is the people you get to hang out with! People from all walk, backgrounds, skill levels and demographics. There are stay-at-home moms with the skills to run major corporations, PhD students, Armed Forces personnel, leaders in Government, Finance, Real Estate, SKILLED WEB DESIGNERS!!!! ... the list goes on and on.
I was thinking of all my CLOSEST circle of friends, and thinking through many different situations in life. I couldn't think of a single life circumstance (good or bad) that I could walk through where I would be completely without expert advice.
Thank you Lord for making us completely individual and unique but united in one family.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Blessing # 4 Amazing Women
All around me are amazing women. They are singles, they are married, some are moms and some are grandmas some just are fantastic.
I am privileged to witness almost daily the beauty and strength that amazing women add to my life.
Today in response to an unspoken need, I watched a young woman surrounded by friends without question or judgement as we prayed and counselled her through a situation. I see daily women who are passionate about what they do, be it parenting or Medicine. I see a young person who is so diligent that she would drive for hours to be on time to a rehearsal. Or an amazing woman of faith who doesn't just talk, but puts her beliefs, values and faith into action to accomplish a feat few could achieve all for the benefit of others.
This last woman is a pastor at my church. Her name is Kimberly Sabourin, and she will be participating in a massive fundraiser for Cancer research.
When women gather together, they are a changing force for good.
If you would like to get in on the action. Support Kimberly Sabourin as she walks 60 Km!!!
You go Girls!
I am privileged to witness almost daily the beauty and strength that amazing women add to my life.
Today in response to an unspoken need, I watched a young woman surrounded by friends without question or judgement as we prayed and counselled her through a situation. I see daily women who are passionate about what they do, be it parenting or Medicine. I see a young person who is so diligent that she would drive for hours to be on time to a rehearsal. Or an amazing woman of faith who doesn't just talk, but puts her beliefs, values and faith into action to accomplish a feat few could achieve all for the benefit of others.
This last woman is a pastor at my church. Her name is Kimberly Sabourin, and she will be participating in a massive fundraiser for Cancer research.
When women gather together, they are a changing force for good.
If you would like to get in on the action. Support Kimberly Sabourin as she walks 60 Km!!!
You go Girls!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Blessing # 3
This one is a 2-fer
Last night as I arrived home from a LONG day at work, this was the sight that greeted me. A beautifully shovelled walkway!!!
It had, as you know, snowed about 20 cm since I left for work this morning, so this was a miracle!! I have an amzing neighbour who more often than not beats us all to the shovelling. For a long time I didn't know who it was so I just called him my "sidewalk angel". I thanked him and his response was "I like to do it for the excercise!!"
The second part is the beautiful blanket of fresh snow that has covered the whole ground. It has resfreshed and renewed and reminded me of the beauty of winter one more time before the snow all melts. I think sometimes that God does that on purpose so that going into next year we forget the salt and the mess and slogging through and we just remember the beauty!!!
Blessings
Today's Blessing is my Roommate!
I have the best roommate in the world. She is fun and funny and clean and she puts up with my messiness!
The reason she is today's blessing is because last night she was away! I thought this would be a good break and I could do all the things people do when in a suddenly empty house.... you know...... sleep with the bedroom door open.... empty closets... stuff like that.
Instead, the house felt empty, lonely and I could hear every little noise and felt very exposed with the door open!
I am grateful for the provision of God who brings just the right people into our lives at just the right time!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
31 Blessings
This post on Lori's blog is worth looking at.
There is a challenge there to count a blessing every day.
For the month of March, I will attempt to post a blessing every day.
There is a challenge there to count a blessing every day.
For the month of March, I will attempt to post a blessing every day.
Blessing # 1
Today is the first day of a new month!
In the environment I work in, the emphasis is on monthy goals and numbers. So the beginning of a new month is an opportunity to put past challenges behind and start fresh. ANYTHING is possible on the first day of a new month!
It is nice to know as well that God's mercies are new every morning!
We get a fresh clean slate EVERY DAY to with as we wish.
I am so grateful for the Mercy of God.
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