So we just got home. Praise God! Seriously we had a blast but my own bed is looking really good to me right now. The first thing that struck me when I was carrying things from the car was how wonderful it smells out here in the woods. WOW nothing like it. I am so glad to be home safe and just be still! So I am going to call it a night but I had to post at least one photo from our trip. Actually this is a video of the tank at the New England Aquarium. Listen to Isaiah in the background. His excitement is priceless!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Boston Children's Museum
Ok so we had adventure number 2 today. I took the kids to teh Boston Children's Museum. WOW! The kids had so much fun. They didn't want to leave. There are 3 floors of adventure and fun. They could barely take it all in.
I can't wait to posts pics of the highlights. There are some really fun ones.
Isaiah's favorite part of the Children's Museum was "the big climb thing". This was a huge awkward structure. The kids start off on the bottom and manuver their way to the top on rug covered misshaped platforms. It was quite impressive. Elijah's favoirte part of the museum was "the basketball room" They had three nets and many different sized and textured balls. Elijah spent a good 1/2 hour in there mastering his skills. He loved it. I had to beg him to go on to the next thing. My favorite part was Kid Power section. This section is deticated to getting your body moving to produce motion. My favorite is when the kids sit in a chair and try to pull themself up by a rope to reach the goal. When they reach the goal, there is a recording of people cheering and clapping. Isaiah did awesome with this. Elijah had a little trouble. I helped him the first time and he got pretty upset with me and said "I want to do it myself." He was really too little to pull himself all by himself. So I put on my mommy thinking cap and pushed up on the chair behind him where he couldn't see me to give a little boost. He did it and was very happy!
Elijah still firmly says his favorite part over all is "the train, riding on the train" He will remember that forever. He really loved it.
Tomorrow it looks like we're going to York's Wild Animal Kingdom. We're back in Maine. We're in Portland right now. I must say I am going to be thankful to get back to the "slow paced" life I am used to in the good 'ol sticks of Maine!
I can't wait to posts pics of the highlights. There are some really fun ones.
Isaiah's favorite part of the Children's Museum was "the big climb thing". This was a huge awkward structure. The kids start off on the bottom and manuver their way to the top on rug covered misshaped platforms. It was quite impressive. Elijah's favoirte part of the museum was "the basketball room" They had three nets and many different sized and textured balls. Elijah spent a good 1/2 hour in there mastering his skills. He loved it. I had to beg him to go on to the next thing. My favorite part was Kid Power section. This section is deticated to getting your body moving to produce motion. My favorite is when the kids sit in a chair and try to pull themself up by a rope to reach the goal. When they reach the goal, there is a recording of people cheering and clapping. Isaiah did awesome with this. Elijah had a little trouble. I helped him the first time and he got pretty upset with me and said "I want to do it myself." He was really too little to pull himself all by himself. So I put on my mommy thinking cap and pushed up on the chair behind him where he couldn't see me to give a little boost. He did it and was very happy!
Elijah still firmly says his favorite part over all is "the train, riding on the train" He will remember that forever. He really loved it.
Tomorrow it looks like we're going to York's Wild Animal Kingdom. We're back in Maine. We're in Portland right now. I must say I am going to be thankful to get back to the "slow paced" life I am used to in the good 'ol sticks of Maine!
Monday, July 28, 2008
New England Aquarium
Ok bare with these photo less posts...I forgot my cord to the camera to upload pics. But I will add them when I get home.
So today we went to the New England Aquarium. Sounds simple enough, but it wasn't. We are staying in Peabody. This means we need to travel into Boston. The easiest and fastest way to do this was to travel by car 20 min into Wonderland T station. Then take the T right to the Aquarium.
I want you to take a moment and think about where I am coming from. I live in a town of just over 200 people. We don't even have a traffic light. Now I am traveling on a highway with 3-4 lanes. I thought I only had Mapquest directions to guide me on my way. Little did I know that the Lord would truly step in to be our Guide.
So I missed my first right turn as soon as we got onto the highway. I was "freaking out" I told the boys to pray. Isaiah busts out "Jesus help my mom to know where she's going like daddy does" It totally broke the tension and allowed me to focus. The Lord totally showed me the way to the right road. Seriously there is no other explanation! Then there were 4 "Roundabouts" These are fun. You just keep going around and around until you get off. So the first one took me around twice before I got off the right exit. But from there it was pretty smooth sailing to the train station.
The "T" was actually pretty good. We got on, made some stops, and got off where we were suppose to, right in front of the Aquarium. Both the kids and I praised God when we saw the blue fish that is the symbol of the Aquarium. People must of looked at us country bumpkins, saying "Thank you God for getting us here" But we were so thankful!
The Aquarium was AWESOME. It was really something. The boys just were and awe and I was too. Elijah said his favorite part was "seeing the sharks" which he called "Bruce" (from Nemo) Isaiah's favorite part was "everything"! My favorite part was the Sea Turtles. They were pretty extraordinary. I literally gasps as the came right up to the front of the tank. I can't wait to post some pics and a short little video of the tank.
I was really in awe of God's creativity in all of these creatures. I mean even the smallest of fish had such magnificent craftsmanship. The colors, the textures, the massiveness of some of these creatures was really a testimony to me of how big and awesome a God we have. I thought to myself as I often do "I wonder if He had me in mind when He made the Sea Turtles just to smile at my reaction" I like to think so. He's just that personal that it might of crossed His mind.
The Lord again showed up on our way home, since none of the streets that were on my Mapquest directions were marked. It was as though He was say "this way, now that way" I just tried to stay calm and study the signs that did have names.
Tomorrow we head back into Boston to go the Children's Museum. This should be interesting. It's the same route by car, and train, but then we walk about 15 min to the Museum itself. Oh Boy!
So today we went to the New England Aquarium. Sounds simple enough, but it wasn't. We are staying in Peabody. This means we need to travel into Boston. The easiest and fastest way to do this was to travel by car 20 min into Wonderland T station. Then take the T right to the Aquarium.
I want you to take a moment and think about where I am coming from. I live in a town of just over 200 people. We don't even have a traffic light. Now I am traveling on a highway with 3-4 lanes. I thought I only had Mapquest directions to guide me on my way. Little did I know that the Lord would truly step in to be our Guide.
So I missed my first right turn as soon as we got onto the highway. I was "freaking out" I told the boys to pray. Isaiah busts out "Jesus help my mom to know where she's going like daddy does" It totally broke the tension and allowed me to focus. The Lord totally showed me the way to the right road. Seriously there is no other explanation! Then there were 4 "Roundabouts" These are fun. You just keep going around and around until you get off. So the first one took me around twice before I got off the right exit. But from there it was pretty smooth sailing to the train station.
The "T" was actually pretty good. We got on, made some stops, and got off where we were suppose to, right in front of the Aquarium. Both the kids and I praised God when we saw the blue fish that is the symbol of the Aquarium. People must of looked at us country bumpkins, saying "Thank you God for getting us here" But we were so thankful!
The Aquarium was AWESOME. It was really something. The boys just were and awe and I was too. Elijah said his favorite part was "seeing the sharks" which he called "Bruce" (from Nemo) Isaiah's favorite part was "everything"! My favorite part was the Sea Turtles. They were pretty extraordinary. I literally gasps as the came right up to the front of the tank. I can't wait to post some pics and a short little video of the tank.
I was really in awe of God's creativity in all of these creatures. I mean even the smallest of fish had such magnificent craftsmanship. The colors, the textures, the massiveness of some of these creatures was really a testimony to me of how big and awesome a God we have. I thought to myself as I often do "I wonder if He had me in mind when He made the Sea Turtles just to smile at my reaction" I like to think so. He's just that personal that it might of crossed His mind.
The Lord again showed up on our way home, since none of the streets that were on my Mapquest directions were marked. It was as though He was say "this way, now that way" I just tried to stay calm and study the signs that did have names.
Tomorrow we head back into Boston to go the Children's Museum. This should be interesting. It's the same route by car, and train, but then we walk about 15 min to the Museum itself. Oh Boy!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
And We're Off...again!
So we head out again today. Peter has some training for work and the kids and I are going to tag along. Today after church we hit my parents house to celebrate my nephew's first birthday. Then tonight we are headed to Peabody MA. We'll be there for a couple nights and then we head to Portland for two nights. If all goes according to plan we'll be back Thursday night. I've got some fun things planned for the kids so I am sure to have some fun pics up soon!
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Week At Big Lake Highlights!
So we're back! Phew! It was so nice to get away but there is something to be said for coming home. We had a lot of fun at the lake for the week. Here are some fun pictures!
The view from the house
Another view
The boys
Lots of swimming
The Cousins
So many boat rides and fishing trips
Me in the kayak
We had a family of ducks that kept coming for free bread!
Games, Games, Games
Marshmellows
We did marshmellows everynight...no kidding! If I eat one more I will be sick!
We had a jet tub in the master bathroom. The boys enjoyed this after a long day of fun!
White's Island was a blast, and had it's own snacks...blueberries!
Lot's of friends swimming at White's Island
Erik got a little bass off the shore of White's Island
Isaiah, Erik, Joshua,Emma, Taylor, Elijah, Alannah
Sonny and Becky (so happy they came out!)
Isaiah and Erik
Fishing again!
Elijah and Taylor playing in the sand
The long scary pickeral!
Elijah and Taylor
Isaiah and Alannah
The view from the house
Another view
The boys
Lots of swimming
The Cousins
So many boat rides and fishing trips
Me in the kayak
We had a family of ducks that kept coming for free bread!
Games, Games, Games
Marshmellows
We did marshmellows everynight...no kidding! If I eat one more I will be sick!
We had a jet tub in the master bathroom. The boys enjoyed this after a long day of fun!
White's Island was a blast, and had it's own snacks...blueberries!
Lot's of friends swimming at White's Island
Erik got a little bass off the shore of White's Island
Isaiah, Erik, Joshua,Emma, Taylor, Elijah, Alannah
Sonny and Becky (so happy they came out!)
Isaiah and Erik
Fishing again!
Elijah and Taylor playing in the sand
The long scary pickeral!
Elijah and Taylor
Isaiah and Alannah
Saturday, July 19, 2008
And we're off
We are off for a week at the lake. My parents and two nieces are coming too and lots of friends along the way. It's going to be such a great time.
The kids have already packed their back packs with all the things they will need. That includes action figures, books, flashlights, and Elijah packed 2 spider man costumes, one black one red. I love their idea of what is "needed". I would have thought clean underwear was pretty high on the list. But not in the mind of 4 and 7 year old boys. I guess that's what they have a mom for!
Contrary to prior assumptions I will not have Internet access out there...oh no what will I do? So no posts for awhile, but plenty of fun pictures when we return.
The kids have already packed their back packs with all the things they will need. That includes action figures, books, flashlights, and Elijah packed 2 spider man costumes, one black one red. I love their idea of what is "needed". I would have thought clean underwear was pretty high on the list. But not in the mind of 4 and 7 year old boys. I guess that's what they have a mom for!
Contrary to prior assumptions I will not have Internet access out there...oh no what will I do? So no posts for awhile, but plenty of fun pictures when we return.
Friday, July 18, 2008
I wish I could always get things right!
"Mom sometimes I know God is with me! He is in my house, in the car, in the sky" -Elijah
"That's right, He is everywhere and He is also living in our hearts" -Mom
"Yeah it's important that you ask Him in your heart. Especially if you do bad things because then He's not there" Isaiah
"Well honey He never leaves you even if you do bad things" -Mom
"But sin separates us from God He can't be around sin." -Isaiah
"That is true, that is right" -Mom
"I wish I could always get things right"-Elijah
"You do get a lot of things right, but no one gets it right all the time. Not Mommy, not daddy, not Isaiah"- Mom
"There was only one person who ever got it all right. Jesus never did anything wrong. He was the only one who was perfect" -Dad
"That's how we can have Him living in our hearts, because Jesus was perfect and died for us." -Mom
This was part of a conversation we had on the way home from church last night. Peter and I were struck by Isaiah's understanding of God's holiness. That He can not be in the presence of sin. We laughed when Elijah said "I wish I could always get things right" He said it with such frustration. I personally feel that frustration everyday. The battle of the flesh.
Sin and flesh...two words I cringe at. But after reading in Galatians I was struck that I personally make excuses for my flesh, for my sin. My justification of choice has been "Well that's how I feel" And that is an excuse. Feelings should never be the motivation factor for actions. The word of God and the Holy Spirit should be my compass in all that I do. It's can be hard and that's where the battle comes in. Now if I can combine Isaiah's understanding of God's holiness and Elijah's desire to have victory over the flesh I'll be doing good!
I say, then, Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh. And these are contrary to one another; lest whatever you may will, these things you do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. Now the works of the flesh are clearly revealed, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lustfulness, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, fightings, jealousies, angers, rivalries, divisions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkennesses, revelings, and things like these; of which I tell you before, as I also said before, that they who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control; against such things there is no law. But those belonging to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become glory-seeking, provoking one another, envying one another.
(Gal 5:16-26)
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit
"That's right, He is everywhere and He is also living in our hearts" -Mom
"Yeah it's important that you ask Him in your heart. Especially if you do bad things because then He's not there" Isaiah
"Well honey He never leaves you even if you do bad things" -Mom
"But sin separates us from God He can't be around sin." -Isaiah
"That is true, that is right" -Mom
"I wish I could always get things right"-Elijah
"You do get a lot of things right, but no one gets it right all the time. Not Mommy, not daddy, not Isaiah"- Mom
"There was only one person who ever got it all right. Jesus never did anything wrong. He was the only one who was perfect" -Dad
"That's how we can have Him living in our hearts, because Jesus was perfect and died for us." -Mom
This was part of a conversation we had on the way home from church last night. Peter and I were struck by Isaiah's understanding of God's holiness. That He can not be in the presence of sin. We laughed when Elijah said "I wish I could always get things right" He said it with such frustration. I personally feel that frustration everyday. The battle of the flesh.
Sin and flesh...two words I cringe at. But after reading in Galatians I was struck that I personally make excuses for my flesh, for my sin. My justification of choice has been "Well that's how I feel" And that is an excuse. Feelings should never be the motivation factor for actions. The word of God and the Holy Spirit should be my compass in all that I do. It's can be hard and that's where the battle comes in. Now if I can combine Isaiah's understanding of God's holiness and Elijah's desire to have victory over the flesh I'll be doing good!
I say, then, Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh. And these are contrary to one another; lest whatever you may will, these things you do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. Now the works of the flesh are clearly revealed, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lustfulness, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, fightings, jealousies, angers, rivalries, divisions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkennesses, revelings, and things like these; of which I tell you before, as I also said before, that they who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control; against such things there is no law. But those belonging to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become glory-seeking, provoking one another, envying one another.
(Gal 5:16-26)
Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
"Are you sure you have the right address?"
"You never buy me flowers" I often say to my husband. And it's true I can count on one hand how many times my hubby has bought me flowers. "I know" ,he says "there really isn't anyplace to buy them around here". And to his credit he's absolutely right. Even when we lived in the big city of Calais the local florist charged so much I always would tell him "I'd rather use the money on something else" And now living in the sticks, there really isn't any place. Good thing the purchase of flowers isn't a gage of how much he loves me. LOL! But I've been in grumpy place the past week or so and just feeling down. You know when you get in a place of feeling alone even though you're not. So anyway I think I nagged a little about not getting flowers in my pathetic attempt to feel wanted. Because you know that in my emotional reasoning receiving flowers would tell me how much my husband loves me, because getting up and going to work everyday, providing for me (and that includes all my frivolous wants), and then coming home everyday to be with me doesn't show that...right? So the UPS man pulls into my driveway this afternoon. I love that brown truck! But I knew I didn't order anything. So I was a bit puzzled. The brown man comes to the door with a big green and black "Pro Flowers" box. Flowers? For who? Not me! So I open the door and say to him "Are you sure you have the right address?" He said "I am pretty sure". I look at the label and low and behold they are for me. Ok so how horrible is this? I thought..."hmmm maybe my friend Angela sent them to me" We had talked yesterday and maybe she sensed I needed a pick me up. But as I opened and beheld the beautiful 24 red roses the card simply read " I love you, Peter" My man of few words sent me roses. I teared up. Isaiah asked "Mom who are they from?" "From your daddy" "MY DAD?", he asked in disbelief. I said "yes your dad" "He loves you Mom" he said. "And I love him". I so did not deserve flowers because I've been such a crab, but I am thankful he loves me enough to send them to me even when I am not the loving wife I am called to be to him.
Husbands, love your wives, and do not be bitter against them.
Col 3:19
Husbands, love your wives, and do not be bitter against them.
Col 3:19
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Peace
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.Philippians 4:6-7
I have read this verse a million times, I have copied it onto a note card and have posted it on the refrigerator. I have quoted it to myself and to others when a situation arose that needed comfort or exhortation. But yesterday this verse came to life in a new way.
Yesterday I was faced with a situation that I couldn't run from and I was very anxious about. I felt helpless and defeated even thinking about it. But as I sat there entertaining thoughts of defeat and anxiousness I realized I had a choice to make. I could continue feeling helpless or I could take God at His word and beg Him to fulfill His promise. I choose the second.
So as I prayed and asked the Lord to calm my anxious heart, and to give me peace in my heart and mind, He again proved Himself faithful. I could sense His presence with me whispering words of encouragement "I will never leave you, you can do all things through me who strengthens you" I was not defeated after all but I actually had victory before the battle had even begun.
I was also struck how seriously the Lord took my request. Because really most people might have snickered at my "mountain" to climb, because it probably would look like a mole hill to them. But the Lord is so personal and so intimate. He didn't ask me to justify my fears, He just took them from me. He knows me, He knows my hurts, He knows how weak I am. He met me right where I was and did what only He could do. He gave me peace.
I have read this verse a million times, I have copied it onto a note card and have posted it on the refrigerator. I have quoted it to myself and to others when a situation arose that needed comfort or exhortation. But yesterday this verse came to life in a new way.
Yesterday I was faced with a situation that I couldn't run from and I was very anxious about. I felt helpless and defeated even thinking about it. But as I sat there entertaining thoughts of defeat and anxiousness I realized I had a choice to make. I could continue feeling helpless or I could take God at His word and beg Him to fulfill His promise. I choose the second.
So as I prayed and asked the Lord to calm my anxious heart, and to give me peace in my heart and mind, He again proved Himself faithful. I could sense His presence with me whispering words of encouragement "I will never leave you, you can do all things through me who strengthens you" I was not defeated after all but I actually had victory before the battle had even begun.
I was also struck how seriously the Lord took my request. Because really most people might have snickered at my "mountain" to climb, because it probably would look like a mole hill to them. But the Lord is so personal and so intimate. He didn't ask me to justify my fears, He just took them from me. He knows me, He knows my hurts, He knows how weak I am. He met me right where I was and did what only He could do. He gave me peace.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
"God made it just for us"
This week we realized summer is HERE! It's been hot and sunny. We are so unbelievably blessed to live literally a one minute car drive to a beautiful lake. It's been so easy to pack some drinks, snacks, and towels and head up for an hour or two, come home, and go back if we want. The boys have had a blast! Isaiah has grown so much more confident in his swimming abilities. Elijah is getting the hang of it and is much more willing to "practice". I am sure by summers end he'll be giving big brother a run for his money. I have enjoyed swimming and relaxing in my beach chair. We've even met some new friends.
I mentioned to Isaiah how much I love having the lake so close to us, and he responded to me "yeah mom I think God made it just for us" I love that. God is so personal to him. I said "well for us and for others but I am sure He knew how much we would enjoy it!"
Check out how beautiful it is!
I mentioned to Isaiah how much I love having the lake so close to us, and he responded to me "yeah mom I think God made it just for us" I love that. God is so personal to him. I said "well for us and for others but I am sure He knew how much we would enjoy it!"
Check out how beautiful it is!
Friday, July 4, 2008
BBQ
So we headed to Machais today for a 4th of July BBQ! Let's just say there was lots of FOOD, FRIENDS, and FELLOWSHIP. What more need I say!
TRAMPOLINE=FUN I couldn't watch to be honest with you. Those things scare me!
Aaron and meat!
Just Fellowshipping
Bubby aka Elijah chowing on some chips as he waited for the hotdogs
The table with all the food. They boys here are enjoying strawberries and blueberries!
TRAMPOLINE=FUN I couldn't watch to be honest with you. Those things scare me!
Aaron and meat!
Just Fellowshipping
Bubby aka Elijah chowing on some chips as he waited for the hotdogs
The table with all the food. They boys here are enjoying strawberries and blueberries!
Independence
Happy 4th of July!
I love this holiday. It reminds me of how blessed we are to live in this country. I love this country. I love that we were founded by men of God who boldly stated "We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." I am so saddened to see things in this country that break the heart of our Creator.
I am not a political person by any stretch. I do keep informed and I do embrace my right in this country to vote and have my vote counted. I see a lot of Christians getting very involved in political causes. Sometimes I have to wonder what would happen if we as Christians lived righteous lives. If we lived lives radically for the Lord and His righteousness? What if our lives commanded people to take notice? What if we as Christians would not look to an elective official for answers or hope?
What if the church rid itself of hypocrisy, legalism, pride, gossip and heresies? And instead the people who are in the church embraced lives of true repentance ,lives that are full of compassion. What if the church was humble in service to the Lord and held on to the truth of God's word. What if we were people of prayer? I believe we'd see an amazing revival sweep across our land.
In this an election year that's all I hear on the news. "We need change, we need hope, I can do this, I can do that" I see mere men being cheered like a god. But in reality The One this country needs is not elected by the masses. Our hope, our change lies in the life and death of One man, Jesus Christ. He truly is in the business of hope and in the business of change. Hope for eternal life through Him, and radically changing the lives. That's that's the Hope and Change I want! He alone is the rightful King!
So happy Independence Day.Today I am remembering my Independence from a life of sin headed down the road to hell and thankful I live in a country with the freedom to worship the God who set me free.
2Chronicles 7:14-15 if My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now My eyes shall be open, and My ears shall be open to the prayer of this place.
The song that is playing on my play list is called You Are. I love this song right now. I was just listening to again and thought Jesus truly is the only hope for me personally and for us collectively. He is everything. We should be so thankful and humbled to worship such a amazing God!
You Are
You are holy, you are faithful.
You are Savior, you are friend.
You are all I'll ever need, Lord, you are.
You are ev'ry questions' answer,
You are ev'ry reason why,
You are moving, you are still, Lord, you are.
You are the Lord on high,
You are the way, the truth, the life.
You are the Word made flesh,
You are the bright Morning Star; you are.
You are Glory Hallelujah.
You are hope of peace on earth.
You are Alpha and Omega, you are.
You are comfort, you are refuge.
You are love personified.
You are kindness and compassion, you are.
You are the Lord on high,
You are the way, the truth, the life.
You are the Word made flesh,
You are the bright Morning Star; you are.
You are my God and my King.
You are the words that I sing.
You are the reason I make this offering.
(Repeat twice)
You are the Lord on high,
You are the way, the truth, the life.
You are the Word made flesh,
You are the bright Morning Star; you are.
You are the words that I sing.
You are.
You are my God and my King.
You are.
You are.
You are.
I love this holiday. It reminds me of how blessed we are to live in this country. I love this country. I love that we were founded by men of God who boldly stated "We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." I am so saddened to see things in this country that break the heart of our Creator.
I am not a political person by any stretch. I do keep informed and I do embrace my right in this country to vote and have my vote counted. I see a lot of Christians getting very involved in political causes. Sometimes I have to wonder what would happen if we as Christians lived righteous lives. If we lived lives radically for the Lord and His righteousness? What if our lives commanded people to take notice? What if we as Christians would not look to an elective official for answers or hope?
What if the church rid itself of hypocrisy, legalism, pride, gossip and heresies? And instead the people who are in the church embraced lives of true repentance ,lives that are full of compassion. What if the church was humble in service to the Lord and held on to the truth of God's word. What if we were people of prayer? I believe we'd see an amazing revival sweep across our land.
In this an election year that's all I hear on the news. "We need change, we need hope, I can do this, I can do that" I see mere men being cheered like a god. But in reality The One this country needs is not elected by the masses. Our hope, our change lies in the life and death of One man, Jesus Christ. He truly is in the business of hope and in the business of change. Hope for eternal life through Him, and radically changing the lives. That's that's the Hope and Change I want! He alone is the rightful King!
So happy Independence Day.Today I am remembering my Independence from a life of sin headed down the road to hell and thankful I live in a country with the freedom to worship the God who set me free.
2Chronicles 7:14-15 if My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now My eyes shall be open, and My ears shall be open to the prayer of this place.
The song that is playing on my play list is called You Are. I love this song right now. I was just listening to again and thought Jesus truly is the only hope for me personally and for us collectively. He is everything. We should be so thankful and humbled to worship such a amazing God!
You Are
You are holy, you are faithful.
You are Savior, you are friend.
You are all I'll ever need, Lord, you are.
You are ev'ry questions' answer,
You are ev'ry reason why,
You are moving, you are still, Lord, you are.
You are the Lord on high,
You are the way, the truth, the life.
You are the Word made flesh,
You are the bright Morning Star; you are.
You are Glory Hallelujah.
You are hope of peace on earth.
You are Alpha and Omega, you are.
You are comfort, you are refuge.
You are love personified.
You are kindness and compassion, you are.
You are the Lord on high,
You are the way, the truth, the life.
You are the Word made flesh,
You are the bright Morning Star; you are.
You are my God and my King.
You are the words that I sing.
You are the reason I make this offering.
(Repeat twice)
You are the Lord on high,
You are the way, the truth, the life.
You are the Word made flesh,
You are the bright Morning Star; you are.
You are the words that I sing.
You are.
You are my God and my King.
You are.
You are.
You are.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him
So we had a little adventure today. We planned on taking the boat out to "our" lake Big Lake. We invited our friends Carol, Lia, and Naomi to come and join us. So we launched the boat in Princeton which has Louis lake which is connected to Long Lake which then opens up into Big Lake. The boat ride was...well WET. The waves were pretty big. But we had made it half way we didn't want to turn back, so we didn't. We got to Governor's point and the kids were in the water in 2.2 seconds. They had a blast. The waves kept getting bigger and bigger and it was like being at the ocean without the salt! They slashed, jumped, squealed with excitement. They had a blast!
Lia, Isaiah, and Elijah
Carol and I started to get a bit concerned because the waves weren't settling, in fact we both agreed they were getting bigger. The wind was picking up. It was so windy that the towels clung to the trees!
Peter headed out to the point to check out the situation and we all decided that it was time to pack it in and try to head back.
So we did. That sounds so easy huh? It wasn't. The water chop was really overwhelming. We had to push the boat out deep enough the lower the motor, but as soon as we did the waves just pushed us back in. Praise God of Carol's long legs! She was able to push the boat out far enough for Peter to start the motor and she jumped in the boat. There's no way I could have done that with my short stubby legs! So off we went back to the boat landing.
The kids safe and sound on LAND
Ok so here are the lessons I learned today. First it's never too late to turn back! LOL
Next I was again confronted with FEAR. The waves were really big, the boat was rocking, and we were all drenched. I literally almost lost my cookies because I was so afraid. But we started talking about Jesus and Peter walking on the water. I will never read the stories about the disciples and Jesus on a boat in the middle of a storm the same again. I have read this stories and often laughed thinking "come on they had Jesus with them what was there to be afraid of?" Today the Lord spoke the same words to me. "you have me, what do you have to be afraid of" and in the moment it was literally about the waves and the boat. But later it spoke of other things in my life. I am so thankful for the personal way the Lord will speak to me. I am thankful for the moments in our lives that He steps in to make a teachable moment.And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him; and said to him, Little-faith! Why did you doubt? And when they had come into the boat, the wind ceased! So with us, when we trust and rest the winds cease!
Oh another little thing I was reminded of...the waves didn't all of a sudden cease on the lake...but when I allowed the Lord to comfort me and trust Him, the storm of fear inside me ceased. I just realized that the Lord is so much more concerned about our heart condition than our circumstances. He will give you joy in a sorrowful situation, peace in a troubling situation, comfort in a fearful situation, wisdom in a confusing situation, love in a hurtful situation...the circumstances may be the same but yielding yourself to Him will produce a heart change. I LOVE IT!
Lia, Isaiah, and Elijah
Carol and I started to get a bit concerned because the waves weren't settling, in fact we both agreed they were getting bigger. The wind was picking up. It was so windy that the towels clung to the trees!
Peter headed out to the point to check out the situation and we all decided that it was time to pack it in and try to head back.
So we did. That sounds so easy huh? It wasn't. The water chop was really overwhelming. We had to push the boat out deep enough the lower the motor, but as soon as we did the waves just pushed us back in. Praise God of Carol's long legs! She was able to push the boat out far enough for Peter to start the motor and she jumped in the boat. There's no way I could have done that with my short stubby legs! So off we went back to the boat landing.
The kids safe and sound on LAND
Ok so here are the lessons I learned today. First it's never too late to turn back! LOL
Next I was again confronted with FEAR. The waves were really big, the boat was rocking, and we were all drenched. I literally almost lost my cookies because I was so afraid. But we started talking about Jesus and Peter walking on the water. I will never read the stories about the disciples and Jesus on a boat in the middle of a storm the same again. I have read this stories and often laughed thinking "come on they had Jesus with them what was there to be afraid of?" Today the Lord spoke the same words to me. "you have me, what do you have to be afraid of" and in the moment it was literally about the waves and the boat. But later it spoke of other things in my life. I am so thankful for the personal way the Lord will speak to me. I am thankful for the moments in our lives that He steps in to make a teachable moment.And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him; and said to him, Little-faith! Why did you doubt? And when they had come into the boat, the wind ceased! So with us, when we trust and rest the winds cease!
Oh another little thing I was reminded of...the waves didn't all of a sudden cease on the lake...but when I allowed the Lord to comfort me and trust Him, the storm of fear inside me ceased. I just realized that the Lord is so much more concerned about our heart condition than our circumstances. He will give you joy in a sorrowful situation, peace in a troubling situation, comfort in a fearful situation, wisdom in a confusing situation, love in a hurtful situation...the circumstances may be the same but yielding yourself to Him will produce a heart change. I LOVE IT!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
So Long Big Daddy!
This morning we woke up to one of our frogs gone belly up. I felt so bad. I guess they need to be set free after they turn frogs to survive. "Big Daddy" was still kicking so we transported him down to the lakefront. He's free now to come and go as he pleases. We now have 3 tadpoles. It really is an amazing process that God designed. We were able watch these tadpoles grow legs, loose tails, it is really fun to watch!
***Update*** We had to let the other tadpoles go tonight. They were looking and acting sickly. They all had there back legs and we felt they had a better change in the world God made rather than our plastic habitate. Isaiah took it pretty rough. He really enjoyed having them. But after talking for a bit he felt better about where they were. So now we are done with the tadpole adventure and I hate to confess I am glad. They are a lot of work to maintain, cleaning the water, remembering to feed them, and watching day and and day out. It was a fantastic learning experience for the boys and mom and dad!
***Update*** We had to let the other tadpoles go tonight. They were looking and acting sickly. They all had there back legs and we felt they had a better change in the world God made rather than our plastic habitate. Isaiah took it pretty rough. He really enjoyed having them. But after talking for a bit he felt better about where they were. So now we are done with the tadpole adventure and I hate to confess I am glad. They are a lot of work to maintain, cleaning the water, remembering to feed them, and watching day and and day out. It was a fantastic learning experience for the boys and mom and dad!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)