Thursday, March 31, 2011
Kirk Franklin - Hello Fear Video - ARTISTdirect Music
Kirk Franklin came in at #5 on Billboard's best selling albums of the week with his CD, "Hello Fear." Go Kirk! Kirk Franklin - Hello Fear Video - ARTISTdirect Music
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Mighty to Save
Tonight in youth group we are having a "going-away" party for Suljeman and Gozman. I'm still not sure how to pronounce Suljeman's name. Sis. Tammy calls him "sol-mar" which makes no sense and I call him "Sol-man" which makes more sense. Who knows, he won't tell us, he just laughs. I'm going to miss those boys so much. When I came to FAC in September, Suljeman had only been to church once or twice. Gozman had never been. Suljeman has come faithfully every Wednesday night and (from what I hear) on Sundays as well. He attends every youth service that the Hudsons will take him to. He never makes a move. He doesn't participate in discussion or praise and worship. He is 16 and well-mannered and gets along with all of the other kids. If I picked favorites, he would probably be one of them.
Here we are, seven months later, and S-man and his brother are moving. When I found out I almost had a panic attack. I mean, these kids haven't given their life to the Lord yet! Our work here is not done. However, two week ago we went to a youth service and I could tell that the Lord was working on S-man. He stared at the floor during the whole sermon and when the preacher made the altar call, he got up and left. I told Sis. Tammy and the crazy lady just went back there and decided to talk to him about it... which isn't crazy, actually. It was smart. She asked Suljeman if he thought it was time to go to the altar. He said yes.
Suljeman went and knelt at the altar and raised his hands. What he said is between him and God, but I know that something changed in that moment. I also know that God is going to take care of him. I don't think God would take him away from us if he thought he couldn't handle it. I am sad. I will miss him, but I am trusting that the Lord has a plan for S-man in North Dakota (which is beyond me, I mean, who lives in North Dakota???).
I don't know if S-man reads my blog. I probably should have thought about that before I wrote this. If you do, I love you. I'll see you soon :)
Oh! And the reason I titled this "Mighty to Save" is because this rap-loving boy's favorite song is Mighty to Save. I mean, Rebekah and I sing it enough that he should never forget it, but
it is a great song. Jesus is here to save us all, S-man and Gozman too :) Wherever they are.
Here we are, seven months later, and S-man and his brother are moving. When I found out I almost had a panic attack. I mean, these kids haven't given their life to the Lord yet! Our work here is not done. However, two week ago we went to a youth service and I could tell that the Lord was working on S-man. He stared at the floor during the whole sermon and when the preacher made the altar call, he got up and left. I told Sis. Tammy and the crazy lady just went back there and decided to talk to him about it... which isn't crazy, actually. It was smart. She asked Suljeman if he thought it was time to go to the altar. He said yes.
Suljeman went and knelt at the altar and raised his hands. What he said is between him and God, but I know that something changed in that moment. I also know that God is going to take care of him. I don't think God would take him away from us if he thought he couldn't handle it. I am sad. I will miss him, but I am trusting that the Lord has a plan for S-man in North Dakota (which is beyond me, I mean, who lives in North Dakota???).
I don't know if S-man reads my blog. I probably should have thought about that before I wrote this. If you do, I love you. I'll see you soon :)
Oh! And the reason I titled this "Mighty to Save" is because this rap-loving boy's favorite song is Mighty to Save. I mean, Rebekah and I sing it enough that he should never forget it, but
it is a great song. Jesus is here to save us all, S-man and Gozman too :) Wherever they are.Tuesday, March 29, 2011
A Day in the Life: First Dates
This past weekend was monumental for our family. Christina (16) went on her first date. Ah! So now mama and daddy have three girls out in the dating world (though, the only one they really need to worry about is Rebekah. She is the one who will most likely be getting out of the dating world soon... if you know what I mean). Anyways!!! I couldn't believe my parents let her out of the house. She's 16 for heaven's sake! I was... well, 16, but turning 17 in two months when I went on my first date. She's still just a baby.I don't know. I really have no idea what to think of all this. I'm sure she is super excited, and Cody too, that I am posting all of this on my blog. What publicity! She didn't talk too much about the date, but from what I can gather, he took her to TGIFriday's for lunch (it was a day date) and they went shopping at the outdoor mall (in Murfreesboro, mind you. They let her go practically two hours away. I only went to Rivergate on my first date). And I'm pretty sure he spent a lot of money on her. He bought her the new Sierra Hull CD, which makes him a winner in her eyes I'm pretty sure.
She came back in one piece and a whole heart, so I guess he's okay with me too :)
Oh Martha...
I was reading in 1 Kings yesterday and I read the story about Elijah and how he went up on a mountain to hear from God. First there was a wind that tore the mountain apart, but God was not in the wind. Then there was a fire, but God was not in the fire. Finally, Elijah heard from God in a still small voice.
Growing up in church, I have always heard that God speaks to us in a still small voice, and I believe that 100%, however, I think there are times when God is yelling at us, well maybe not yelling, because I can't really picture God yelling at me for doing something wrong, but the Bible does say that He chastises those he loves... so if He's not yelling then he might be whispering over and over again, a little louder every time until we listen. No matter how He is doing it, God will get our attention when he wants it.
The past few months, God has wanted my attention, and I have been reluctant to hear what he has to say. Now, I am not saying that I don't listen to the Lord. I do. I pray, and read my Bible, and all of that good stuff. What I am saying is that maybe I haven't heard what He wants me to hear.
Well, on two separate occasions, just since January, God's voice has come through loud and clear, in a still-small-whisper kind of way. The first time was earlier this year when I felt God telling me to let go of some things in my life that were holding me back from Him. The second time was this week, when, again, I felt like God was telling me to let go of some things that are holding me back from Him... but these things are totally different from the thing I had to give up before (could I be a little more vague? haha).
I'll just come out and say it. I have what I have dubbed a "Martha spirit." Now, what is that? In Luke 10, we read about the time that Jesus visited the home of his friends, Martha and Mary (this is the Mary that washed His feet with her tears... not His mom). Martha was is the kitchen preparing food, cleaning, doing a lot of work, and Mary just sat at the feet of Jesus the entire time, listening to him and not helping her sister. Martha got so mad because she was doing all the work by herself, and Jesus says, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken from her."
I have heard this passage of scripture at many a women's conferences. I am not saying that I do too much housework... that would be a lie. I don't do enough, I let Rebekah do the dishes, and well, I just don't make my bed every morning. What I am saying is that I am guilty of putting too much emphasis on the "works" I am doing rather than my personal relationship with the Savior. It's like I've been keeping a checklist of all the things that I have done: teach Sunday School, sing in the choir, go on a mission trip, clean the church, lead the youth group, blah blah blah. There is nothing wrong with doing these things, I know the Lord is pleased with me doing these things. However, He said that Mary chose what was better.
I'm not going to dump all of my responsibilities, that would be wrong. But I want my relationship with the Lord to be based on intimacy with Him, not all the things that I can do for Him. Those things I do for myself, yeah I do them because I love the Lord, but because they make me feel good about myself too. God would love me even if I were not a Youth Leader or a piano player. I want to take every opportunity to choose what is better: time with Jesus.
Growing up in church, I have always heard that God speaks to us in a still small voice, and I believe that 100%, however, I think there are times when God is yelling at us, well maybe not yelling, because I can't really picture God yelling at me for doing something wrong, but the Bible does say that He chastises those he loves... so if He's not yelling then he might be whispering over and over again, a little louder every time until we listen. No matter how He is doing it, God will get our attention when he wants it.
The past few months, God has wanted my attention, and I have been reluctant to hear what he has to say. Now, I am not saying that I don't listen to the Lord. I do. I pray, and read my Bible, and all of that good stuff. What I am saying is that maybe I haven't heard what He wants me to hear.
Well, on two separate occasions, just since January, God's voice has come through loud and clear, in a still-small-whisper kind of way. The first time was earlier this year when I felt God telling me to let go of some things in my life that were holding me back from Him. The second time was this week, when, again, I felt like God was telling me to let go of some things that are holding me back from Him... but these things are totally different from the thing I had to give up before (could I be a little more vague? haha).
I'll just come out and say it. I have what I have dubbed a "Martha spirit." Now, what is that? In Luke 10, we read about the time that Jesus visited the home of his friends, Martha and Mary (this is the Mary that washed His feet with her tears... not His mom). Martha was is the kitchen preparing food, cleaning, doing a lot of work, and Mary just sat at the feet of Jesus the entire time, listening to him and not helping her sister. Martha got so mad because she was doing all the work by herself, and Jesus says, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken from her."
I have heard this passage of scripture at many a women's conferences. I am not saying that I do too much housework... that would be a lie. I don't do enough, I let Rebekah do the dishes, and well, I just don't make my bed every morning. What I am saying is that I am guilty of putting too much emphasis on the "works" I am doing rather than my personal relationship with the Savior. It's like I've been keeping a checklist of all the things that I have done: teach Sunday School, sing in the choir, go on a mission trip, clean the church, lead the youth group, blah blah blah. There is nothing wrong with doing these things, I know the Lord is pleased with me doing these things. However, He said that Mary chose what was better.
I'm not going to dump all of my responsibilities, that would be wrong. But I want my relationship with the Lord to be based on intimacy with Him, not all the things that I can do for Him. Those things I do for myself, yeah I do them because I love the Lord, but because they make me feel good about myself too. God would love me even if I were not a Youth Leader or a piano player. I want to take every opportunity to choose what is better: time with Jesus.
"One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple."
Psalm 27:4
Psalm 27:4
Monday, March 28, 2011
Sanctus Real: "The Redeemer"
One of the best songs I've heard in a long time. I want this to be my theme song :)
Sometimes I just want to start over, 'cause everything looks like a wreck
And I need the courage to carry on, 'cause I can't see what's ahead
And there are places I've wished I could be, battles I've wanted to win
Dreams that have slipped through my hands
I may never get back again
But I'm still a dreamer, a believer
Oh, I've lost my faith in so many things, but I still believe in You
'Cause You can make anything new
Sometimes I just wish we could say all the things that are easy to hear
Ignore the injustice we see and explain every unanswered prayer
But I'd rather speak honestly and wear a tattered heart on my sleeve
'Cause in the middle of my broken dreams, redemption is here
And I'm still a dreamer, a believer
Oh, I've lost my faith in so many things, but I still believe in You
'Cause You are the answer, the redeemer
Oh, I've given up on too many things, but I'm not giving up on You
'Cause You can make anything new
I don't have every answer in life
But I'm trusting You one day at a time
'Cause You can make a weak heart stay alive forever
this is where Heaven and Earth collide
I lift my hands and give my life
This is how my weary heart stays alive
Oh, I'm still a dreamer (This is where heaven and earth collide)
(I lift my hands and give my life)
Still a believer (This is how my weary heart stays alive)
Oh, You are the answer (Oh, this is where Heaven and Earth collide)
(I lift my voice and give my life)
The redeemer (This is how my weary heart stays alive, oh)
Sometimes I just want to start over, 'cause everything looks like a wreck
And I need the courage to carry on, 'cause I can't see what's ahead
And there are places I've wished I could be, battles I've wanted to win
Dreams that have slipped through my hands
I may never get back again
But I'm still a dreamer, a believer
Oh, I've lost my faith in so many things, but I still believe in You
'Cause You can make anything new
Sometimes I just wish we could say all the things that are easy to hear
Ignore the injustice we see and explain every unanswered prayer
But I'd rather speak honestly and wear a tattered heart on my sleeve
'Cause in the middle of my broken dreams, redemption is here
And I'm still a dreamer, a believer
Oh, I've lost my faith in so many things, but I still believe in You
'Cause You are the answer, the redeemer
Oh, I've given up on too many things, but I'm not giving up on You
'Cause You can make anything new
I don't have every answer in life
But I'm trusting You one day at a time
'Cause You can make a weak heart stay alive forever
this is where Heaven and Earth collide
I lift my hands and give my life
This is how my weary heart stays alive
Oh, I'm still a dreamer (This is where heaven and earth collide)
(I lift my hands and give my life)
Still a believer (This is how my weary heart stays alive)
Oh, You are the answer (Oh, this is where Heaven and Earth collide)
(I lift my voice and give my life)
The redeemer (This is how my weary heart stays alive, oh)
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Oh Grave Where is thy Victory?
It seems as though... nevermind.
This year has been full of... nevermind again.
My family has experienced a lot of sorrow this year.... nope.
You would think that here, in this moment, after everything that has happened in my life.... no.
Death is not something that is easy to write about. No matter how many times it happens, no matter how much I wish I could convey to you how it makes me feel, blogging about the death of loved ones is never easy. I never have the right words, I never feel good about what I have to say, yet it is something I have felt the need to do a lot in the past few months. When Bro. Burgett died, I wanted to share with the world how much I thought of that great man of God. When Amanda died, I wanted to share with the world how much I regret not knowing my own cousin better. Now, here I am again, and in this moment, I have nothing to say. But I want to say something. So I will say this: There is no greater reassurance and peace than that which comes after the death of a saint of God. As the good book say, "Oh grave where is thy victory? Oh death where is thy sting?" Because I know the man who conquered death and the grave, I have a hope that those who do not know him do not have. I have been blessed to share this life with others who have the same hope.
I am sad that Bro. Chet Morrison, my great uncle, my grandmama's brother, the pastor of the Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ, has left us. But I know Heaven is rejoicing and he is happy there. It is great to know Jesus and to feel not the sting of death.
This year has been full of... nevermind again.
My family has experienced a lot of sorrow this year.... nope.
You would think that here, in this moment, after everything that has happened in my life.... no.
Death is not something that is easy to write about. No matter how many times it happens, no matter how much I wish I could convey to you how it makes me feel, blogging about the death of loved ones is never easy. I never have the right words, I never feel good about what I have to say, yet it is something I have felt the need to do a lot in the past few months. When Bro. Burgett died, I wanted to share with the world how much I thought of that great man of God. When Amanda died, I wanted to share with the world how much I regret not knowing my own cousin better. Now, here I am again, and in this moment, I have nothing to say. But I want to say something. So I will say this: There is no greater reassurance and peace than that which comes after the death of a saint of God. As the good book say, "Oh grave where is thy victory? Oh death where is thy sting?" Because I know the man who conquered death and the grave, I have a hope that those who do not know him do not have. I have been blessed to share this life with others who have the same hope.
I am sad that Bro. Chet Morrison, my great uncle, my grandmama's brother, the pastor of the Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ, has left us. But I know Heaven is rejoicing and he is happy there. It is great to know Jesus and to feel not the sting of death.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
What I Found in the ERC
I've posted a lot of silly stuff on here lately, and I plan to post many more silly blog entries, but today is a little different. So, I am in a class this semester called Library Media Education and in this class I am being taught how to use the library and about childrens' books and things of that nature. Originally, I thought I would really like this class, and I still think I might really like it if I had a different professor. Don't get me wrong, she's a nice lady, but the class is SO unorganized and I never know when anything is due, and that is probably due to the fact that nothing has ever been due... until now.
The majority of our grade comes from book reviews. This Saturday I have five book reviews due and next week sometime I have eleven book reviews due. So, in two weeks, I have to complete sixteen book reviews. Not cool. Therefore, this week I have spent a lot of time in the Educational Resource Center (ERC). For the last set of book reviews I had to read one book about a disability, one about a religion different from my own, one about another culture, and two about sexual orientation. It really doesn't take me long to read these books, what takes me so long is finding the stinking things.
Anyways, I was sitting at a table with about twelve childrens' books in front of me, reading away, when a little piece of paper fell out of one of them. It said this: "Feeling no touch, no love, no compassion for the past twelve years has left me wanting so much. I know the one man who can heal me and I must find him."
Crazy, huh? I folded it up and stuck it in my backpack and now I have it hanging on the whiteboard in my room because, whether someone copied this out of a book or was trying to write a poem, or literally felt this way, someone, another human being wrote this note. It drives me nuts to think there are people out there who have never felt love or compassion, especially when this country has always considered itself to be "Christian." Its our job to love people! Its an obligation, its not just something we get to decide to do, we are commanded to love others. I hope that when I am at the end of my life and I stand before God he could not say "You did not show love to everyone you met." I would be so disappointed in myself, and I am! I know that I do not always show love to everyone I come in contact with. But I want to. I have to so that no one will ever leave a note like that in a book in the ERC again.
The majority of our grade comes from book reviews. This Saturday I have five book reviews due and next week sometime I have eleven book reviews due. So, in two weeks, I have to complete sixteen book reviews. Not cool. Therefore, this week I have spent a lot of time in the Educational Resource Center (ERC). For the last set of book reviews I had to read one book about a disability, one about a religion different from my own, one about another culture, and two about sexual orientation. It really doesn't take me long to read these books, what takes me so long is finding the stinking things.
Anyways, I was sitting at a table with about twelve childrens' books in front of me, reading away, when a little piece of paper fell out of one of them. It said this: "Feeling no touch, no love, no compassion for the past twelve years has left me wanting so much. I know the one man who can heal me and I must find him."
Crazy, huh? I folded it up and stuck it in my backpack and now I have it hanging on the whiteboard in my room because, whether someone copied this out of a book or was trying to write a poem, or literally felt this way, someone, another human being wrote this note. It drives me nuts to think there are people out there who have never felt love or compassion, especially when this country has always considered itself to be "Christian." Its our job to love people! Its an obligation, its not just something we get to decide to do, we are commanded to love others. I hope that when I am at the end of my life and I stand before God he could not say "You did not show love to everyone you met." I would be so disappointed in myself, and I am! I know that I do not always show love to everyone I come in contact with. But I want to. I have to so that no one will ever leave a note like that in a book in the ERC again.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
So, I've been trying to remember the song from my senior dance at prom for like a month now. It came to me last night when I was at Walmart. "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith. How could I forget that... so ridiculous. Oh well, glad I remember it now.
I'm feeling crazy right now. I think it may be due to the fact that I'm running on very little sleep.
I have 16 Book reviews to do by next week. I have completed 1. And I'm blogging. What is wrong with me?
I'm feeling crazy right now. I think it may be due to the fact that I'm running on very little sleep.
I have 16 Book reviews to do by next week. I have completed 1. And I'm blogging. What is wrong with me?
Monday, March 21, 2011
May I Summarize?
This weekend was... full?
What a weird thing to say about this weekend. Weird because if it was so full, why did it leave me feeling so empty? I am worn clean out. I have been spent emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Yeah, I think that covers it. Last night was the first time in five days that I had more than five minutes to myself. Seriously. But it was great, the weekend was absolutely fabulous, I wouldn't change anything about it except I could have used more sleep... I don't know, there are a few more things I might have changed.
So what happened?
>I spent over 12 hours in the church van (altogether) over a span of three days.
>I spent less than 24 hours in bed, asleep, over the span of five days. So ridiculous.
>I spent 16 hours in church services over the span of four days (amazing)
>I listened to the testimonies of numerous missionaries (inspiring)
>I made 1 new friend with a pretty awesome testimony himself (refreshing)
>I got to spend time with probably 50-100 friends young and old that I only get to see a few times a year (Uplifting)
>I stayed in the house with 8 girls and one JJ. (crazy)
>I laughed until I cried and my stomach hurt. (Awesome)
>I cried until I laughed... what? (Silly)
>I nearly froze to death (literally)
>I sweated in 80 degree, March weather (unpredictable)
>I attended a scary meeting with 5 very important people (intimidating)
>I attended a not-so-scary meeting with 8 important people (fun)
>I heard awesome sermons. AWESOME SERMONS!!!!
>I had weird conversations with people I should not be having weird conversations with. (weird)
>I was introduced to someone who I did not want to be introduced to... and ended up semi-liking that person. (who knows?)
>I was called a rockstar (invigorating)
>I missed someone who I thought I would get to see
>I made big plans (hopeful)
What a weird thing to say about this weekend. Weird because if it was so full, why did it leave me feeling so empty? I am worn clean out. I have been spent emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Yeah, I think that covers it. Last night was the first time in five days that I had more than five minutes to myself. Seriously. But it was great, the weekend was absolutely fabulous, I wouldn't change anything about it except I could have used more sleep... I don't know, there are a few more things I might have changed.
So what happened?
>I spent over 12 hours in the church van (altogether) over a span of three days.
>I spent less than 24 hours in bed, asleep, over the span of five days. So ridiculous.
>I spent 16 hours in church services over the span of four days (amazing)
>I listened to the testimonies of numerous missionaries (inspiring)
>I made 1 new friend with a pretty awesome testimony himself (refreshing)
>I got to spend time with probably 50-100 friends young and old that I only get to see a few times a year (Uplifting)
>I stayed in the house with 8 girls and one JJ. (crazy)
>I laughed until I cried and my stomach hurt. (Awesome)
>I cried until I laughed... what? (Silly)
>I nearly froze to death (literally)
>I sweated in 80 degree, March weather (unpredictable)
>I attended a scary meeting with 5 very important people (intimidating)
>I attended a not-so-scary meeting with 8 important people (fun)
>I heard awesome sermons. AWESOME SERMONS!!!!
>I had weird conversations with people I should not be having weird conversations with. (weird)
>I was introduced to someone who I did not want to be introduced to... and ended up semi-liking that person. (who knows?)
>I was called a rockstar (invigorating)
>I missed someone who I thought I would get to see
>I made big plans (hopeful)
I hate Math
I logged onto blogger about thirty minutes ago meaning to blog. Now I have ten minutes until class starts, which means hardly any time to blog. So I will say one (or two) really important things.
1. I hate math class. It ruins everything.
2. I love Jesus. He is everything.
*Not in order of importance, by any means.
Thank you, and come again... hopefully the next entry will be a little more meaty.
1. I hate math class. It ruins everything.
2. I love Jesus. He is everything.
*Not in order of importance, by any means.
Thank you, and come again... hopefully the next entry will be a little more meaty.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
M.C.
It's finally here!!!! Today is Thursday, the day I have been waiting for all week! At four o'clock I will go pick up my new best fran Chaley and we will hit the road home, only to stay there for a few minutes before rocking out at MISSIONARY CONFERENCE!!! (I wonder if it is even appropriate to say "rocking out" and "Missionary Conference" in the same sentence? I conclude... yes, it is)
Why do I love Missionary Conference so much? Well here are just a few of the reasons... or all of them, we'll see how far I get.
Why do I love Missionary Conference so much? Well here are just a few of the reasons... or all of them, we'll see how far I get.
- The Missionaries!!!! Duh! My grandad is a missionary to Haiti, and I was raised to have a love for missions and supporting missions. I love the stories, I love the pictures, I love the people. So what better way to show some love than going to.... you guessed it! Missionary Conference
- FRIENDSSSSS. I love friends. They are so awesome. I love new friends, old friends, and in the middle friends. Missionary Conference is great because I have a ton of friends that I only see at these sorts of things. Friends like the Massies (Shout out to my girl Kait!) who live in Arkansas (this includes Tichina, as well) and friends like all my Grace folks (Mauldins, Shelia, Sis. Burgett, Tim, I love you all) and its fun because not only do I get to hang out with them, but I get to hang out with them AND the friends that I get to see more often. The combination rocks.
- Preaching. Some of the best messages I have heard in my entire life have been at Missionary Conference. Bro. J.H. Osborne, Bro. McCool, great men of God.
- Music. Kudos to First Apostolic Church for having such talented and anointed musicians. They do so great every year. Also, my lil sis Christina is playing the guitar for them this year! Whoo hoo!
- Free Food. That pretty much says it all.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
It's only Tuesday. Poo.
Today I saw the lovely Sis. Jeana Beecher in the mall and when I was telling her goodbye I said, "See ya tomorrow!" By which I meant Friday. But no. Today is only Tuesday.
That is exactly the kind of week I have had so far. I know it probably partially has to do with the fact that I am looking SO forward to Thursday, so of course the beginning of the week is going to drag on. However, today was especially bad. Why? Because I went shopping. I know, I'm a girl, I'm supposed to love shopping. But I hate it. I hate it so much. Even when I have money to burn, good shoes on, and all the time in the world: I hate shopping. And today I spent four hours doing just that. I mean, I put myself through it, I could have stopped at any point, but I thought I was doing okay until I got to the end and realized I had bought nothing. And then I just about had a mental breakdown. Okay, truth, I did have a mental breakdown. Shopping is horrible. That's all I have to say.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Forgetting Facebook
On Sunday night Bro. Josh Drumm preached a phenomenal message at our church about the role of the church as a mother to God's children. It was great. I don't want to take away or add to what he said at all, but he did say something that has caused me to decide to make a few changes in my life. He used a quote from the famous "Biggest Loser" trainer, Jillian Michaels. Jillian, in an interview with Womens' Health Magazine, told the reporter that she would never have children because she doesn't want to "wreck her body." Josh's message was basically this:
The church, as a mother, must risk "wrecking" her body in order to bring forth children. Sure, its comfortable and its nice to not have to worry about raising more children, but God, as the father of the church is looking down on us saying "Give me more children. I just want more children." Sometimes, that means messing up what we already have going, but it's worth it.
Whoa! Such a good thought from Bro. Josh! It's so true. It's hard to bring sinners into the church when the church is not in the right mindset. Things will not be easy, they will never be the same, but if we want the church to grow we have to take risks. Honestly, I don't consider myself as having the wrong mindset. I would give anything to see people come to the Lord. Anything. Which is why I am giving up facebook for a little while.
I know it seems silly, and like not much of a sacrifice. But if you knew the ridiculous amount of time I spend on facebook you would probably be shocked. God has been dealing with me even before Josh's message to give it up, so I decided this would be the best opportunity to do so. I hate it because it really is a great way to keep up with people and to talk to the kids in my youth group, but people made it a looooong time without facebook so I know I can do it for a little while. I don't know when I will be back.
I guess I am really telling you all this because with the lack of facebook in my life I am expecting that my blogging will increase tremendously. Not just because I feel the need to be connected at all times and I have a big mouth and I need a good reason not to do homework, but because I really expect the Lord to talk to me during this time and I may want to share that with you!
So, for a little while, I will be "forgetting facebook."
:)
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Spring Break 2011
What up bloggity blog? Now, if you came to this post looking for crazy stories of spring break vendettas including the beach and lots of screaming friends, you have come to the wrong place. I did nothing of the sort. In fact, I stayed home for spring break, still, cool things happened. So if you are at all interested in my everyday life then keep reading. If not, I'll save you the time: stop now.
So what did I do over this break?
On Monday I finished as much as possible of the March/April issue of the "Our Herald." Did you know that about me? That I am the editor of the "Our Herald" a bimonthly publication put out by the Associated Brotherhood of Christians? Well now you know. Its a title I kinda like. I love the Associated Brotherhood of Christians. I feel so privileged to get to serve in such a capacity as editor of it's only publication :)
On Tuesday I worked a little more on the "Our Herald" but this time at my grandparents' house while Rebekah helped them put up wall paper. Then we cooked at ate the most delicious Asian shrimp stir-fry. It was a little watery... don't know what happened there, but delicious nonetheless. Unfortunately, Grandmama ran out of the wall paper so...
On Wednesday we went to Greenville, Ky, to Uncle Lee's, a pretty cool store that sells everything and is in the middle of nowhere. Seriously, no offense to my Muhlenberg County readers but I could never live there. There wasn't even a Wal-mart nearby. We also ate at this little home-owned restaurant called the "Catfish Dock" and it was pretty good. I got the catfish. I feel so sad because I could tell by the number of people there at lunch hour that business isn't that good, and I know it isn't for most places owned by individuals. I wish that problem didn't exist (go away McDonalds!!!)
On Thursday... oh, today is Thursday. I was literally dragged out of bed at 10:30 (I need to catch up on my rest!) to go grocery shopping with Grandmom and Granddad. We got home around 1:30 and at 3:00 Mama and Jess got home and dragged me out of bed once again (Nap time) to go grocery shopping with them. Now, shopping is all fine and dandy until I try to find the one item I need to complete my killer outfit for Missionary Conference and I can't find anything... which put me in a mood. So when we got home I helped put away the groceries and then went and got in the bed. Which is where I am now... of course, I've been here a while. I watched the rest of the Grey's Anatomy episodes. I'm all caught up now and have to wait until March 31st for the next issue. Poop.
I had a rant that I wanted to share, but I'm not going to because I'm afraid one of the people I want to rant about will read my blog. Or someone who knows them will read my blog and tell them about it because it will be really evident who I am ranting about... so I will not rant. Sorry for the tease. When I can figure out how to tell you all what I am thinking without giving away the identity of the person(s) I will, but it might take a while.
Until then, I will let you know that one of the kids from my youth group is moving to North Dakota. I am so sad. He is yet to come around and decide to give his life to the lord and to be Baptized. I know I am going to have to have a talk with him before he leaves. I have to do everything possible to make sure he is good before he leaves. I only have a few weeks. Actually, just two, I think. So pray for him and pray for me that God will use me and give me the right things to say. I really want my boy to come to the Lord. Which is my cue to get off this stinking computer and get to praying...
So what did I do over this break?
On Monday I finished as much as possible of the March/April issue of the "Our Herald." Did you know that about me? That I am the editor of the "Our Herald" a bimonthly publication put out by the Associated Brotherhood of Christians? Well now you know. Its a title I kinda like. I love the Associated Brotherhood of Christians. I feel so privileged to get to serve in such a capacity as editor of it's only publication :)
On Tuesday I worked a little more on the "Our Herald" but this time at my grandparents' house while Rebekah helped them put up wall paper. Then we cooked at ate the most delicious Asian shrimp stir-fry. It was a little watery... don't know what happened there, but delicious nonetheless. Unfortunately, Grandmama ran out of the wall paper so...
On Wednesday we went to Greenville, Ky, to Uncle Lee's, a pretty cool store that sells everything and is in the middle of nowhere. Seriously, no offense to my Muhlenberg County readers but I could never live there. There wasn't even a Wal-mart nearby. We also ate at this little home-owned restaurant called the "Catfish Dock" and it was pretty good. I got the catfish. I feel so sad because I could tell by the number of people there at lunch hour that business isn't that good, and I know it isn't for most places owned by individuals. I wish that problem didn't exist (go away McDonalds!!!)
On Thursday... oh, today is Thursday. I was literally dragged out of bed at 10:30 (I need to catch up on my rest!) to go grocery shopping with Grandmom and Granddad. We got home around 1:30 and at 3:00 Mama and Jess got home and dragged me out of bed once again (Nap time) to go grocery shopping with them. Now, shopping is all fine and dandy until I try to find the one item I need to complete my killer outfit for Missionary Conference and I can't find anything... which put me in a mood. So when we got home I helped put away the groceries and then went and got in the bed. Which is where I am now... of course, I've been here a while. I watched the rest of the Grey's Anatomy episodes. I'm all caught up now and have to wait until March 31st for the next issue. Poop.
I had a rant that I wanted to share, but I'm not going to because I'm afraid one of the people I want to rant about will read my blog. Or someone who knows them will read my blog and tell them about it because it will be really evident who I am ranting about... so I will not rant. Sorry for the tease. When I can figure out how to tell you all what I am thinking without giving away the identity of the person(s) I will, but it might take a while.
Until then, I will let you know that one of the kids from my youth group is moving to North Dakota. I am so sad. He is yet to come around and decide to give his life to the lord and to be Baptized. I know I am going to have to have a talk with him before he leaves. I have to do everything possible to make sure he is good before he leaves. I only have a few weeks. Actually, just two, I think. So pray for him and pray for me that God will use me and give me the right things to say. I really want my boy to come to the Lord. Which is my cue to get off this stinking computer and get to praying...
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Blog Excuse: I've been in battle!
Well I've been out of blogger world for the weekend. I have missed three days of my challenge and you have missed three of the most exciting days I have had in a long time. I guess you win some and you lose some... and sorry, but I'd give up blogging any day for another weekend like this one.
Tonight at church we did this thing that we do a lot called "all-the-ministers-in-the-church-share-a-small-sermon" Yeah. And guess what? It's funny how God does this a lot in our church, but all the ministers talked about the same thing: Victory.
It was absolutely crazy because that has been the theme of this weekend for me, for my family, my friends, and the church. I titled this post "I've been in battle" because that is literally how I feel about this weekend. I (and many others) have been fighting the devil this weekend... and have won. And victory is sweet.
Okay, so by this time you are wondering, "what in the world is this little chica talking about?"
I have a new best friend and sister in Christ as of Friday night, Chaley. But let me tell you, it was not easy. I have never seen a battle for a soul like this in my entire life. I just know God has a plan and a purpose for her that is going to be off the chiz-ain. I wish I could tell you the story, but its not my story to tell. It's hers.
So I'll just be a little boring and tell you my story. This is a weekend in the life of Anna (also starring the Link Family, the FAC BG Church family, and the Grandparents)
I'll start on Wednesday:
Wednesday: Class, exam, work, church, a friend coming to church with me to take pictures? and lots of studying and praying for Chaley.
Thursday: Class, more studying, work out, dinner at the Hudson's house, more studying lots of praying for Chaley.
Friday: Class, two exams, pack, drive home, ride with Grandad and sisters back to Bowling Green for Revival, fight the devil, watch Chaley get the Holy Ghost, sing til I have no more voice, go to Mcdonalds, drive Grandad's car home from BG
Saturday: Goodwill Saturday, eat out, grocery shopping and walmart, Singing at the Nicaragua fundraiser, back to BG for more revival. More fighting the devil. Tore up a carpet (dancing, that is) and drive back home.
Sunday: Church, Lunch, Church, Preach, Watch T.V.
I'm tired just thinking about it. But I just love the Lord, He is so awesome and He has won some battles this weekend. I mean I could almost see His hand moving the pieces. I felt like I was in one of Frank Peretti's novels... which is cool... but also scary. But mostly cool.
Tonight at church we did this thing that we do a lot called "all-the-ministers-in-the-church-share-a-small-sermon" Yeah. And guess what? It's funny how God does this a lot in our church, but all the ministers talked about the same thing: Victory.
It was absolutely crazy because that has been the theme of this weekend for me, for my family, my friends, and the church. I titled this post "I've been in battle" because that is literally how I feel about this weekend. I (and many others) have been fighting the devil this weekend... and have won. And victory is sweet.
Okay, so by this time you are wondering, "what in the world is this little chica talking about?"
I have a new best friend and sister in Christ as of Friday night, Chaley. But let me tell you, it was not easy. I have never seen a battle for a soul like this in my entire life. I just know God has a plan and a purpose for her that is going to be off the chiz-ain. I wish I could tell you the story, but its not my story to tell. It's hers.
So I'll just be a little boring and tell you my story. This is a weekend in the life of Anna (also starring the Link Family, the FAC BG Church family, and the Grandparents)
I'll start on Wednesday:
Wednesday: Class, exam, work, church, a friend coming to church with me to take pictures? and lots of studying and praying for Chaley.
Thursday: Class, more studying, work out, dinner at the Hudson's house, more studying lots of praying for Chaley.
Friday: Class, two exams, pack, drive home, ride with Grandad and sisters back to Bowling Green for Revival, fight the devil, watch Chaley get the Holy Ghost, sing til I have no more voice, go to Mcdonalds, drive Grandad's car home from BG
Saturday: Goodwill Saturday, eat out, grocery shopping and walmart, Singing at the Nicaragua fundraiser, back to BG for more revival. More fighting the devil. Tore up a carpet (dancing, that is) and drive back home.
Sunday: Church, Lunch, Church, Preach, Watch T.V.
I'm tired just thinking about it. But I just love the Lord, He is so awesome and He has won some battles this weekend. I mean I could almost see His hand moving the pieces. I felt like I was in one of Frank Peretti's novels... which is cool... but also scary. But mostly cool.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Day 23: Something you crave for a lot... and a random preaching rant?
Oh my, if we're talking about food here, then I have a lot. Okay, so I realize that most of the time when I'm "hungry" I'm really just needing some water, so number one craving is water. But, there are times when I would kill for a pizza. There are lots of times, actually. Also, I am now hooked to these stupid peanut butter filled pretzel things due to the fact that I ate some at church last Wednesday night and Sis. Tammy decided to give me a whole case of them.... bad decision.
But I guess I crave things that are not food. Spiritually, my soul craves for a Word from the Lord. I know there have been times in my life when I have been desperate for a Word. Also, I crave fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ. ALOT. We need each other! Now, I know this has nothing to do with the blog challenge, but I am reminded of something that was said by one of the kids at church last night. We were talking about spiritual rescue stories. One of the girls said that when she moved to Kentucky from California it was like God rescuing her because now she is surrounded by people who love the Lord and she didn't have that before. I just thought that was so awesome! And how telling that we certainly do need each other!
The devil's best weapon is to tell a Christian that he or she is alone.
That is something that can be fought very easily with Fellowship! Do your best to love one another. You never know when God could be using you to rescue someone.
But I guess I crave things that are not food. Spiritually, my soul craves for a Word from the Lord. I know there have been times in my life when I have been desperate for a Word. Also, I crave fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ. ALOT. We need each other! Now, I know this has nothing to do with the blog challenge, but I am reminded of something that was said by one of the kids at church last night. We were talking about spiritual rescue stories. One of the girls said that when she moved to Kentucky from California it was like God rescuing her because now she is surrounded by people who love the Lord and she didn't have that before. I just thought that was so awesome! And how telling that we certainly do need each other!
The devil's best weapon is to tell a Christian that he or she is alone.
That is something that can be fought very easily with Fellowship! Do your best to love one another. You never know when God could be using you to rescue someone.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Day 22: What makes you different from everybody else?
Welllllll....
Numero Uno: I have repented, been baptized in Jesus name, and I am filled with the Holy Ghost! Not that there aren't other people who are (because there are tons!) But because I believe Jesus is my Savior, I also believe that he created me unique and for a special purpose and to be a special person, unlike anyone else (which is what unique means, actually).
Numero Dos (and so forth): how many people do you know who have willingly jumped out of moving vehicles? Or who had mono, MRSA, and went to the poorest parts of Mexico all in one summer? or who belong to the Link clan (there are only six of us and we're pretty special)? Or who live 11 months and three weeks out of the year waiting for that one week of Camp Mulberry? Or who chronically skip class? Or who cuts/dyes her hair (but not drastically) and rearranges her room every time she's upset about something?
Oh, no one else? Then I guess that makes me different :)
Numero Uno: I have repented, been baptized in Jesus name, and I am filled with the Holy Ghost! Not that there aren't other people who are (because there are tons!) But because I believe Jesus is my Savior, I also believe that he created me unique and for a special purpose and to be a special person, unlike anyone else (which is what unique means, actually).
Numero Dos (and so forth): how many people do you know who have willingly jumped out of moving vehicles? Or who had mono, MRSA, and went to the poorest parts of Mexico all in one summer? or who belong to the Link clan (there are only six of us and we're pretty special)? Or who live 11 months and three weeks out of the year waiting for that one week of Camp Mulberry? Or who chronically skip class? Or who cuts/dyes her hair (but not drastically) and rearranges her room every time she's upset about something?
Oh, no one else? Then I guess that makes me different :)
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
- Acceptance is not a state of passivity or inaction. I am not saying you can't change the world, right wrongs, or replace evil with good. Acceptance is, in fact, the first step to successful action. If you don't fully accept a situation precisely the way it is, you will have difficulty changing it. Moreover, if you don't fully accept the situation, you will never really know if the situation should be changed.
- ~Peter Williams, Life 101
Day 21: Part Two... something else that makes me happy
I just saw this picture on my screen saver and got soooo happy. Christmas Punch!!!!
Day 21: A picture of something that makes you happy
These are pretty much two of the funniest people alive: my sister Christina and my twin Bro. Harold. They make me happy :)
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