Here's to expanding my vocabulary and helping others... Check it out! Warning, it's a little addicting. But, I just scored 3,040 grains of rice! :)
www.freerice.com
Friday, February 08, 2008
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
The Rain... Over It.
It's been raining for weeks... Well, maybe just days, but it certainly feels longer. This sun-starved transplant of a Coloradoan is missing the glaring warmth of the Rocky Mountain sun tonight in a very bad way. The gloominess is getting to me and I'm remembering that this is what February feels like for me in New England. What an encouraging realization though! It's not me... It's the weather! The last few days have brought higher temperatures amid the rain, so I am grateful and see the blessing in it. Yet, the idea of heading to a tanning salon has crossed my mind frequently (even though I'm not completely "pro" that strategic step).
This morning when I awoke to torrents of rain, I was pained by the reality that I had 9 AM, 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM meetings. In fact, I arrived at the office with pants soaked to mid-calf wondering why I've yet to purchase some stylish rainboots from JCrew or Urban Outfitters (note to self, this is a very good idea!) and told my boss after a quick "Good Morning" that I couldn't believe I actually came to the office today. I know, I'm delightful. :)
In the midst of all of this, I passed Park Street Church on my usual route to the office; I saw a sign on the steps reminding me that today is the beginning of the Lenten Season. Ash Wednesday, in fact. I quickly forgot about this and went to work. Mid-day though, a friend emailed saying we had our monthly "Night of Reflection" at church which jogged my memory... Oh right, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Easter... All day I debated whether I should go or not (more to the story) and finally decided to attend.
There is something about Lent. Never in my life, prior to my move to Boston, did I consider it. My Baptist upbringing did not seem to draw attention to the season before Easter with the exception of Palm Sunday and honestly, I did not know or care much until three years ago. This is not a judgment call, just my experience, but life has been so much richer with an understanding of the Lenten Season.
It came without warning this year. Maybe that's how it happens though. You're moving along with your life per normal, have barely had time to consider that the New Year is here and now, quite suddenly, you are thrown into a season of introspection. If this isn't you, I'll just speak for myself because wow, this is me. I arrived at church tonight (we meet in a hotel in the city for now), took a few moments to catch up with friends and we launched into this...
"By asking for thrones in glory, James and John were wanting comfortable security in addition to honor and power... The spirit of James and John lingers on, especially in us who have been cushioned by affluence. It is true that inflation and unemployment have brought many to a new experience of insecurity. Yet we still regard security as our birthright and 'safety first' as a prudent motto. Where is the spirit of adventure, the sense of uncalculating solidarity with the underprivileged? Where are the Christians who are prepared to put service before security, compassion before comfort, hardships before ease? Thousands pioneer Christian tasks are waiting to be done, which challenge our complacency, and which call for risk."
John Stott The Cross of Christ
Talk about being jolted out of the self-misery of the past few days... Welcome Lent!! In a way, I was elated to hear these words tonight. I think this is the reason: I remembered that it is not about me and more so, there are so many better things to put at the forefront of my life. For instance, worship. Something inside me could not help but worship God tonight. We read these words and as we moved into a time of singing, my heart felt light and free to appreciate God for his goodness in showing me that it's really not about these small, yet complicated dramas in my life or the world around me. He is active in the midst of it - he sent his Son to redeem me out of my gloom - he cares so deeply and loves so freely, speaking truth with grace so I can be free. And, he wants more for me than I want for myself... like getting over myself and moving past complacency and the comfort of security in tangible things to embrace the unknown and to risk.
Does that not inspire and bring life in the midst of my weariness? Absolutely. I love the idea that I have forty days to think about things like this and move toward action as I see the Gospel transform my cynical heart. This season acts as a reminder to refocus and reconsider the amazing truth that Jesus came and lived a perfect life; he offered himself as a sacrifice to pay the penalty for my sin, through his death on the cross, and rose again to give me new life. To ponder, question, wonder and worship.
While the rain turns to sleet, then snow outside my window right now, I'll leave you with these words to an old hymn that I've grown to love in a modern context/version. I'm unsure of the author and my search online has come up empty, but it encompasses the hope I have for own my heart this Lenten Season... To remember to worship God because he is true.
SATISFIED
All my life long I had panted
For a drink from some cool spring
That I hoped would, quench the burning
Of the Thirst I felt within
Feeding on the filth around me
Till my strength was almost gone
Longed my soul for something better
Only still to hunger on
Chorus:
Hallelujah He has Found me
The One my soul, so long has craved
Jesus Satisfies, all my longings
Through his Blood I now am saved
Poor I was and sought for riches
Something that would satisfy
But the dust I gathered round me
Only mocked my soul's sad cry
Well of water ever springing
Bread of Life so rich and Free
Untold wealth that never Faileth
My Redeemer is to me
...
HALLELUJAH HE HAS FOUND ME
THE ONE MY SOUL, SO LONG HAS CRAVED
JESUS SATISFIES, ALL MY LONGINGS
THROUGH HIS BLOOD I NOW AM SAVED!!!!
This morning when I awoke to torrents of rain, I was pained by the reality that I had 9 AM, 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM meetings. In fact, I arrived at the office with pants soaked to mid-calf wondering why I've yet to purchase some stylish rainboots from JCrew or Urban Outfitters (note to self, this is a very good idea!) and told my boss after a quick "Good Morning" that I couldn't believe I actually came to the office today. I know, I'm delightful. :)
In the midst of all of this, I passed Park Street Church on my usual route to the office; I saw a sign on the steps reminding me that today is the beginning of the Lenten Season. Ash Wednesday, in fact. I quickly forgot about this and went to work. Mid-day though, a friend emailed saying we had our monthly "Night of Reflection" at church which jogged my memory... Oh right, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Easter... All day I debated whether I should go or not (more to the story) and finally decided to attend.
There is something about Lent. Never in my life, prior to my move to Boston, did I consider it. My Baptist upbringing did not seem to draw attention to the season before Easter with the exception of Palm Sunday and honestly, I did not know or care much until three years ago. This is not a judgment call, just my experience, but life has been so much richer with an understanding of the Lenten Season.
It came without warning this year. Maybe that's how it happens though. You're moving along with your life per normal, have barely had time to consider that the New Year is here and now, quite suddenly, you are thrown into a season of introspection. If this isn't you, I'll just speak for myself because wow, this is me. I arrived at church tonight (we meet in a hotel in the city for now), took a few moments to catch up with friends and we launched into this...
"By asking for thrones in glory, James and John were wanting comfortable security in addition to honor and power... The spirit of James and John lingers on, especially in us who have been cushioned by affluence. It is true that inflation and unemployment have brought many to a new experience of insecurity. Yet we still regard security as our birthright and 'safety first' as a prudent motto. Where is the spirit of adventure, the sense of uncalculating solidarity with the underprivileged? Where are the Christians who are prepared to put service before security, compassion before comfort, hardships before ease? Thousands pioneer Christian tasks are waiting to be done, which challenge our complacency, and which call for risk."
John Stott The Cross of Christ
Talk about being jolted out of the self-misery of the past few days... Welcome Lent!! In a way, I was elated to hear these words tonight. I think this is the reason: I remembered that it is not about me and more so, there are so many better things to put at the forefront of my life. For instance, worship. Something inside me could not help but worship God tonight. We read these words and as we moved into a time of singing, my heart felt light and free to appreciate God for his goodness in showing me that it's really not about these small, yet complicated dramas in my life or the world around me. He is active in the midst of it - he sent his Son to redeem me out of my gloom - he cares so deeply and loves so freely, speaking truth with grace so I can be free. And, he wants more for me than I want for myself... like getting over myself and moving past complacency and the comfort of security in tangible things to embrace the unknown and to risk.
Does that not inspire and bring life in the midst of my weariness? Absolutely. I love the idea that I have forty days to think about things like this and move toward action as I see the Gospel transform my cynical heart. This season acts as a reminder to refocus and reconsider the amazing truth that Jesus came and lived a perfect life; he offered himself as a sacrifice to pay the penalty for my sin, through his death on the cross, and rose again to give me new life. To ponder, question, wonder and worship.
While the rain turns to sleet, then snow outside my window right now, I'll leave you with these words to an old hymn that I've grown to love in a modern context/version. I'm unsure of the author and my search online has come up empty, but it encompasses the hope I have for own my heart this Lenten Season... To remember to worship God because he is true.
SATISFIED
All my life long I had panted
For a drink from some cool spring
That I hoped would, quench the burning
Of the Thirst I felt within
Feeding on the filth around me
Till my strength was almost gone
Longed my soul for something better
Only still to hunger on
Chorus:
Hallelujah He has Found me
The One my soul, so long has craved
Jesus Satisfies, all my longings
Through his Blood I now am saved
Poor I was and sought for riches
Something that would satisfy
But the dust I gathered round me
Only mocked my soul's sad cry
Well of water ever springing
Bread of Life so rich and Free
Untold wealth that never Faileth
My Redeemer is to me
...
HALLELUJAH HE HAS FOUND ME
THE ONE MY SOUL, SO LONG HAS CRAVED
JESUS SATISFIES, ALL MY LONGINGS
THROUGH HIS BLOOD I NOW AM SAVED!!!!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
A New Reality?
My hope is that their testing proves that this is a very good idea.
http://biz.yahoo.com/rb/080123/starbucks.html?.v=4&.pf=banking-budgeting
http://biz.yahoo.com/rb/080123/starbucks.html?.v=4&.pf=banking-budgeting
Monday, January 21, 2008
Low Key
Tumultuous and whirlwind are two words I've used recently to describe the past month. I've been so happy this past week to have my feet firmly planted on the freezing cold Massachusetts sidewalks (perhaps more so, however, on the hardwood floors in my apartment). Yes, it's cold here today... again. BUT, it's sunny! What more can a girl ask for? I'm thankful.
I've taken the past week to catch up on my life and have not missed the office for a second. Proudly, I've refrained from email (well, maybe I sent one... but, only one!) and have stuck to a regimen of sleeping, accomplishing some very overdue items on my personal to-do list, cleaning the apartment (which I happen to love... I know that might sound crazy to some of you), seeing and calling friends, reading and catching up on my DVR. Love it.
Yet, my suitcase isn't completely unpacked. I think I'll do that today. Somewhere in my brain I think I might actually believe that I have to leave again on another trip, but nope, I should really unpack! I'm staying put for a few weeks at minimum and it is a glorious thing. I've decided that this is a good way to begin 2008.
Oh, Happy New Year! Can you believe it's 2008??? Amazing.
I don't know what I hope for life this year, but I'm excited about what God has in store. Given what the past month has brought, I'm waiting to see what the Lord has for me in and through what has happened. I do love the idea of a new year. Not because of resolutions or anything like that, but maybe because there is potential in the months ahead for something new, surprising, challenging and growing. Whatever the case, I am grateful for the way I've begun it - first a little hectic and now looking back over the past week realizing that I've done something well... I chose to rest when I knew I needed it. That is a good first step for a hopeful New Year.
I've taken the past week to catch up on my life and have not missed the office for a second. Proudly, I've refrained from email (well, maybe I sent one... but, only one!) and have stuck to a regimen of sleeping, accomplishing some very overdue items on my personal to-do list, cleaning the apartment (which I happen to love... I know that might sound crazy to some of you), seeing and calling friends, reading and catching up on my DVR. Love it.
Yet, my suitcase isn't completely unpacked. I think I'll do that today. Somewhere in my brain I think I might actually believe that I have to leave again on another trip, but nope, I should really unpack! I'm staying put for a few weeks at minimum and it is a glorious thing. I've decided that this is a good way to begin 2008.
Oh, Happy New Year! Can you believe it's 2008??? Amazing.
I don't know what I hope for life this year, but I'm excited about what God has in store. Given what the past month has brought, I'm waiting to see what the Lord has for me in and through what has happened. I do love the idea of a new year. Not because of resolutions or anything like that, but maybe because there is potential in the months ahead for something new, surprising, challenging and growing. Whatever the case, I am grateful for the way I've begun it - first a little hectic and now looking back over the past week realizing that I've done something well... I chose to rest when I knew I needed it. That is a good first step for a hopeful New Year.
Monday, December 24, 2007
A Very Merry Christmas
Leading up to Christmas this year, I found myself ever-busy with plans for our winter conference and trying to get all done before flying home to be with my family. Two weeks ago, my Dad called telling me that my maternal grandmother had passed away. Plans changed and I flew to the West Coast for her funeral. I still feel that I haven't taken adequate time to sit and reflect on this loss. Though the reality hits me in unexpected moments and I experience a mixture of emotions... Tremendous sadness and great joy.
My grandmother loved Jesus and faithfully walked with him though her years in Russia/Ukraine, in Germany, into Austria, across the world in South America and then through the remainder of her life spent in the United States. Her story is quite remarkable and maybe I'll share more about her someday. I rejoice that she is with Jesus today - what a way to celebrate his birthday! She is experiencing the LIVING hope that he came to bring humankind.
To me, it's a special Christmas. Without Jesus, what would I have to celebrate? His life represents the hope I am able to have for the future as I recognize that it's not simply about the things that I see, but the unseen... the hope of Heaven and all that comes as a result... reconciliation, forgiveness of my sin, and new life! My grandmother is experiencing this firsthand today and I rejoice in the midst of my grief that she is free from the suffering and brokenness of our world. She is with Jesus. What a very Merry Christmas!
My grandmother loved Jesus and faithfully walked with him though her years in Russia/Ukraine, in Germany, into Austria, across the world in South America and then through the remainder of her life spent in the United States. Her story is quite remarkable and maybe I'll share more about her someday. I rejoice that she is with Jesus today - what a way to celebrate his birthday! She is experiencing the LIVING hope that he came to bring humankind.
To me, it's a special Christmas. Without Jesus, what would I have to celebrate? His life represents the hope I am able to have for the future as I recognize that it's not simply about the things that I see, but the unseen... the hope of Heaven and all that comes as a result... reconciliation, forgiveness of my sin, and new life! My grandmother is experiencing this firsthand today and I rejoice in the midst of my grief that she is free from the suffering and brokenness of our world. She is with Jesus. What a very Merry Christmas!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Happy House
There are moments in my life when I realize, "I have a good life!" I wish they happened with more frequency (albeit, I am a very positive person), but sometimes I fail to realize the actual joy that exists in the midst of my routine. Tonight, I had one of those moments.
I just returned home from a friends house where we were reviewing our Christmas photo shoot pics (admittedly, a little strange to me still); walking into my apartment, I felt a surge of happiness. I don't know where it came from (well, I could, should and do acknowledge the Lord... every good and perfect gift...), but I felt peaceful and grateful. I walked into my room to change into more comfy clothes - it's cold outside and I'm still adjusting. On my way to the kitchen to make tea, I appreciated the painted walls - colors that I love and chose and painted with friends and roommates - I smiled at the living room - it's so stinkin' inviting!!! - my eyes glanced around at furniture I adore and took time to collect and well, I just felt happy!...
All of this made me think about our recently celebrated holiday - Thanksgiving. On the actual day, I awoke feeling under the weather as I had for a week or so prior. I knew in my heart that I had things I was thankful for, but somehow that day, I wasn't able to express it in the truest of senses. I think that's why tonight struck me and the urge to blog overcame me. I am just SO grateful for my life in this moment and I think that's worth writing about and celebrating.
A few weeks ago, sitting with a friend who is struggling, I remember telling her that sometimes we need other people to look into our lives and tell us what's good because at times, we aren't capable of seeing one iota of good for ourselves. Tonight, I can clearly SEE the goodness and my heart feels invigorated. The simple things that make my life mine. Remembering that there is purpose and meaning and hope and joy... I have such a good life!
Wow. Am I grateful!
I just returned home from a friends house where we were reviewing our Christmas photo shoot pics (admittedly, a little strange to me still); walking into my apartment, I felt a surge of happiness. I don't know where it came from (well, I could, should and do acknowledge the Lord... every good and perfect gift...), but I felt peaceful and grateful. I walked into my room to change into more comfy clothes - it's cold outside and I'm still adjusting. On my way to the kitchen to make tea, I appreciated the painted walls - colors that I love and chose and painted with friends and roommates - I smiled at the living room - it's so stinkin' inviting!!! - my eyes glanced around at furniture I adore and took time to collect and well, I just felt happy!...
All of this made me think about our recently celebrated holiday - Thanksgiving. On the actual day, I awoke feeling under the weather as I had for a week or so prior. I knew in my heart that I had things I was thankful for, but somehow that day, I wasn't able to express it in the truest of senses. I think that's why tonight struck me and the urge to blog overcame me. I am just SO grateful for my life in this moment and I think that's worth writing about and celebrating.
A few weeks ago, sitting with a friend who is struggling, I remember telling her that sometimes we need other people to look into our lives and tell us what's good because at times, we aren't capable of seeing one iota of good for ourselves. Tonight, I can clearly SEE the goodness and my heart feels invigorated. The simple things that make my life mine. Remembering that there is purpose and meaning and hope and joy... I have such a good life!
Wow. Am I grateful!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
My Life in Pictures
My inbox is overflowing and my brain is too full of other things to blog. That said, here's a recap of my life in recent times with the help of some pictures...
Life at Fenway is always fun... Especially when our Boston Red Sox go on to win the World Series a month later.
The Jessica's out and about in O-town during our Conference Guild meetings.
Part of my team on Spectacle Island enjoying a different perspective on the city during our Worldwide Day of Prayer.
A visit to our upstate New York teams finds us in Syracuse receiving gifts from the team there. Go Orange!
Catching up in the Rockies. Reunions these days come in the form of friends' weddings.
The groom, Alex, with groomsmen, friends and former house mates, Paul & Peter.
Two of my favorite friends!
The groom and his gorgeous bridge on their special day! Congratulations Alex & Cass!...
Sox sweep the Rockies to win the 2007 World Series. Here's some shots of the crowd on parade day. This is two blocks from my office. Loving life in Beantown.
And, here's my favorite player... Well, at least a tribute to him. Big Pappy, I want to be your friend someday!
Jason Varitek taking his own home video of the crowd.
Fans taking photos with phones & cameras. Welcome to 2007. So weird.
ARod, the people of Boston are wondering, how did you like your free taco?
Papalbaum doing his dance for the crowd. Hilarious.
A night at the Opera. Thanks for putting this together, Kim! La Boheme... Beautiful.
Two of my favorite Northeast women! Loving the opportunity to dress up and head out for a night on the town.
There you have it. Life is good. Hopefully, more soon...
Happy Thanksgiving!
Life at Fenway is always fun... Especially when our Boston Red Sox go on to win the World Series a month later.
The Jessica's out and about in O-town during our Conference Guild meetings.
Part of my team on Spectacle Island enjoying a different perspective on the city during our Worldwide Day of Prayer.
A visit to our upstate New York teams finds us in Syracuse receiving gifts from the team there. Go Orange!
Catching up in the Rockies. Reunions these days come in the form of friends' weddings.
The groom, Alex, with groomsmen, friends and former house mates, Paul & Peter.
Two of my favorite friends!
The groom and his gorgeous bridge on their special day! Congratulations Alex & Cass!...
Sox sweep the Rockies to win the 2007 World Series. Here's some shots of the crowd on parade day. This is two blocks from my office. Loving life in Beantown.
And, here's my favorite player... Well, at least a tribute to him. Big Pappy, I want to be your friend someday!
Jason Varitek taking his own home video of the crowd.
Fans taking photos with phones & cameras. Welcome to 2007. So weird.
ARod, the people of Boston are wondering, how did you like your free taco?
Papalbaum doing his dance for the crowd. Hilarious.
A night at the Opera. Thanks for putting this together, Kim! La Boheme... Beautiful.
Two of my favorite Northeast women! Loving the opportunity to dress up and head out for a night on the town.There you have it. Life is good. Hopefully, more soon...
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
First Snow of the CO Season (Well, for me anyway)
The view from the end of my parents driveway last Sunday. Covered street sign, white sky, white fields. All in October. The day before it was 70+ degrees... It was fun to be home for a little Colorado weather!
Friday, September 07, 2007
Getting It
I am becoming convinced of something in my spiritual life. The reason I, we, often choose to walk in darkness is because we fail to understand the love of God for us. We do not grasp on a heart level that Paul's prayer for us is not only a nice notion to consider, but truth that we need to live in light of daily:
"Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. 18 And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. 19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." -- Ephesians 3:17-19
God's desire for us is completion. He wants to satisfy our every need and desire, yet we run from it. We long for it, yet it terrifies us. We want to experience wholeness and redemption and freedom, yet we flee from him. Why? When he is the Source of Life, Creator, Healer, Redeemer, Righteous One, Lover of our Souls; He is the King...
I am grieved by the choices I make in my life that contradict the trueness of his love for me. In the same way, for friends that "opt out" of their relationship with him because they have suffered or because they don't believe that they are strong enough to walk faithfully. The truth is, none of us are able to live the Christian life on our own. We need him! We need the power of his Spirit to guide and direct, lead us, change us and provide us with the ability to walk in the light. Paul reminds us of the folly of walking in our own strength:
"Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? For the meaning of Jesus Christ’s death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. 2 Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by obeying the law of Moses? Of course not! You received the Spirit because you believed the message you heard about Christ. 3 How foolish can you be? After starting your Christian lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? 4 Have you experienced[a] so much for nothing? Surely it was not in vain, was it?" -- Galatians 3:1-4
God so desires that we experience his love for us, love him and share that love with others. How can we walk with him when we think it's about us -- our circumstances, our needs, our desires? Don't get me wrong, God cares deeply about where we are and where we have been, yet he longs for us to know him, to be free from the things that bind us so that we might know his love and walk in light of it. Our lives are transformed as we do this and so are the lives of those around us.
Today I've been reflecting on the lives of people I care for tremendously. In thinking through choices they are making it reminded me of the way I run from God and I am deeply saddened by this reality. He is such a merciful, loving Savior. His love is great and he is so faithful to us even when we aren't faithful to him. How can I run from such an incredible Lord and Friend? How can they? I just feel such a sense of compassion towards the hardness of heart that exists in my life and that of others sometimes. We miss the point. He loves us. We can stand firmly in that love, secure and unwavering, because it's truth.
It is the love that changes our lives.
"Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. 18 And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. 19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." -- Ephesians 3:17-19
God's desire for us is completion. He wants to satisfy our every need and desire, yet we run from it. We long for it, yet it terrifies us. We want to experience wholeness and redemption and freedom, yet we flee from him. Why? When he is the Source of Life, Creator, Healer, Redeemer, Righteous One, Lover of our Souls; He is the King...
I am grieved by the choices I make in my life that contradict the trueness of his love for me. In the same way, for friends that "opt out" of their relationship with him because they have suffered or because they don't believe that they are strong enough to walk faithfully. The truth is, none of us are able to live the Christian life on our own. We need him! We need the power of his Spirit to guide and direct, lead us, change us and provide us with the ability to walk in the light. Paul reminds us of the folly of walking in our own strength:
"Oh, foolish Galatians! Who has cast an evil spell on you? For the meaning of Jesus Christ’s death was made as clear to you as if you had seen a picture of his death on the cross. 2 Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by obeying the law of Moses? Of course not! You received the Spirit because you believed the message you heard about Christ. 3 How foolish can you be? After starting your Christian lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? 4 Have you experienced[a] so much for nothing? Surely it was not in vain, was it?" -- Galatians 3:1-4
God so desires that we experience his love for us, love him and share that love with others. How can we walk with him when we think it's about us -- our circumstances, our needs, our desires? Don't get me wrong, God cares deeply about where we are and where we have been, yet he longs for us to know him, to be free from the things that bind us so that we might know his love and walk in light of it. Our lives are transformed as we do this and so are the lives of those around us.
Today I've been reflecting on the lives of people I care for tremendously. In thinking through choices they are making it reminded me of the way I run from God and I am deeply saddened by this reality. He is such a merciful, loving Savior. His love is great and he is so faithful to us even when we aren't faithful to him. How can I run from such an incredible Lord and Friend? How can they? I just feel such a sense of compassion towards the hardness of heart that exists in my life and that of others sometimes. We miss the point. He loves us. We can stand firmly in that love, secure and unwavering, because it's truth.
It is the love that changes our lives.
Friday, August 31, 2007
The Most Important Work
I've just completed the most important work I could have done today. Moments ago, our regional team gathered to pray as a part of our 40 day prayer and fasting focus that began today and ends on October 10th. We are trusting God to open doors like never before for the Gospel to go out on campuses in our region and across the globe.
It occurred to me while we prayed that I was accomplishing more in those 30 minutes than in my entire day of "to-do's." The reality is, however, I typically forget that God hears my prayers and desires to answer as I humbly approach him. I forget that prayer is powerful and that God acts as a result of my prayers.
I'm encouraged by the way God wants me to stand on behalf of others through prayer and fasting. Isaiah 58 is a great place to look to understand his heart. And, I'm excited for the things he has in store as our ministry links arms together to pray and fast with expectant hope that God will act.
Lord, change us. Enable us to humbly walk with you and intercede on the behalf of others that they might know your Son, Jesus. May we see spiritual revival on campuses around the world as we spend time devoted to this most important work. Amen.
It occurred to me while we prayed that I was accomplishing more in those 30 minutes than in my entire day of "to-do's." The reality is, however, I typically forget that God hears my prayers and desires to answer as I humbly approach him. I forget that prayer is powerful and that God acts as a result of my prayers.
I'm encouraged by the way God wants me to stand on behalf of others through prayer and fasting. Isaiah 58 is a great place to look to understand his heart. And, I'm excited for the things he has in store as our ministry links arms together to pray and fast with expectant hope that God will act.
Lord, change us. Enable us to humbly walk with you and intercede on the behalf of others that they might know your Son, Jesus. May we see spiritual revival on campuses around the world as we spend time devoted to this most important work. Amen.
Friday, August 24, 2007
The Overcomer
Wednesday morning found me on the T on my way to the office. I'm slowly finding my way back into my routine here in Boston and, to be honest, it hasn't been that easy. Thankfully, I have an amazing job and the people I work with care for me... I am "easing" into life and work. While on the T, I was reading in the Gospel of John and came to the end of chapter 16 where Jesus says to his disciples, "But take heart, because I have overcome the world."
He had just covered the work of the Spirit - telling the disciples that he was going to leave, but sharing the necessity of this - then the Spirit could come. He wanted them to have peace in knowing that the plan was bigger than what they saw (or would see). And then, he told them to take heart... He had overcome the world. They could serve, love and obey him unhindered.
For me, this hit home. I so appreciate that God knows what I need and provides for it. He looks beyond the circumstance, sees the big picture and tells me, "Jess, take heart, because I've overcome the world." He knows what is ahead, where I've come from and what is going on now. He "gets" it. He understands the brokenness around me and in me.
I'm coming to understand the greater reality that this is a large part of why he moved me to Boston. He wants me to want more of him; not just the things he offers or what he provides for me (including my salvation), but simply, wanting him. It's encouraging for me to reflect on this right now as I transition back and trust him with my life here on the east coast.
He had just covered the work of the Spirit - telling the disciples that he was going to leave, but sharing the necessity of this - then the Spirit could come. He wanted them to have peace in knowing that the plan was bigger than what they saw (or would see). And then, he told them to take heart... He had overcome the world. They could serve, love and obey him unhindered.
For me, this hit home. I so appreciate that God knows what I need and provides for it. He looks beyond the circumstance, sees the big picture and tells me, "Jess, take heart, because I've overcome the world." He knows what is ahead, where I've come from and what is going on now. He "gets" it. He understands the brokenness around me and in me.
I'm coming to understand the greater reality that this is a large part of why he moved me to Boston. He wants me to want more of him; not just the things he offers or what he provides for me (including my salvation), but simply, wanting him. It's encouraging for me to reflect on this right now as I transition back and trust him with my life here on the east coast.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Farewell Colorado
Three months have passed since I've seen the Atlantic and, more specifically, Boston. I spent a portion of the weekend in Evergreen for the wedding festivities and took one last picture of my beloved Rockies before departing. Tomorrow I head back to my east coast home and life. I have mixed feelings about it, but God has done much in my heart this summer and brought me hope for my next steps there.
To be honest, it just seems a bit surreal to go back now. I wonder how it will be to return to the place He has called me. I've grown accustomed to Colorado (admittedly, this isn't hard to do) and will have to re-adjust to the city. Once again I leave people I love, a place I love and a life I love to follow the Lord. This time, however, I get to return to a familiar home, a dear community of friends and work that I know I'm called to which makes the "re-entry" easier. I think my hope and prayer in all of this is that I don't lose sight of where He has brought me this summer -- it was with great purpose and a place of greater depth -- and that I continue to walk in step with Him knowing that He will meet me where He has called me.
So, for now and once again, farewell Colorado...
Congratulations Kate & Trent!
I met Kate at CU her freshmen year. God has moved in and through her life in so many ways over the past few years. Not only has she invested in women here in America, but also in Russia and Spain. The scope of her influence is wide. And, in the process of sharing our lives with one another, we became great friends. It was such a blessing to stand with her on her wedding day (and, of course, in the days, weeks, months and years to come!) and celebrate God's gift to her... Trent becoming her husband and she, becoming his wife. God gives good gifts. Here is the happy and beautiful couple... Many congratulations and prayers for an amazing marriage and journey with the Lord in this new season! You are loved...
Sunday, August 12, 2007
#4
Pictured above is the fourth, yes fourth, wedding bouquet I've caught in my lifetime. Honestly, for the past five or so years, I've taken a "break" from this portion of the wedding festivities I've participated in and this is the reason... I tend to catch the bouquet. And, as evidenced last night at my friend Kate's wedding, I still have the knack for it. Typically, I duck out or pretend not to hear the single female "call," but yesterday, I felt compelled to take part since I was part of the "Wedding Team" (thank you Franklin for that new phrase in my vocab) and because I love Kate. Here's to another wedding and another bouquet. :)
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
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