I ran across this web page that is loosely connected to A.A. While reading through the points that describe someone who is emotionally mature, it made me realize that this also describes someone who is spiritually mature in Christ. It also humbled me to realize that I need to work on a couple of factors in my own life.
EMOTIONAL MATURITY
The mature person has developed attitudes in relation to himself and his environment which have lifted him above "childishness" in thought and behavior.
Some of the characteristics of the person who has achieved true adulthood are suggested here:
1. He accepts criticism gratefully, being honestly glad for an opportunity to improve.
2. He does not indulge in self-pity. He has begun to feel the laws of compensation operating in all life.
3. He does not expect special consideration from anyone.
4. He controls his temper.
5. He meets emergencies with poise.
6. His feelings are not easily hurt.
7. He accepts the responsibility of his own actions without trying to "alibi."
8. He has outgrown the "all or nothing" stage. He recognizes that no person or situation is wholly good or wholly bad, and he begins to appreciate the Golden Mean.
9. He is not impatient at reasonable delays. He has learned that he is not the arbiter of the universe and that he must often adjust himself to other people and their convenience.
10. He is a good loser. He can endure defeat and disappointment without whining or complaining.
11. He does not worry about things he cannot help.
12. He is not given to boasting or "showing off" in socially unacceptable ways.
13. He is honestly glad when others enjoy success or good fortune. He has outgrown envy and jealousy.
14. He is open-minded enough to listen thoughtfully to the opinions of others.
15. He is not a chronic "fault-finder."
16. He plans things in advance rather than trusting to the inspiration of the moment.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Skywriter
While we were in Florida we noticed that three afternoons in a row there was a busy skywriter sharing a message of the Lord in the skies. I had one day where I felt particularly weary and that was the first day I looked up and saw the message "Jesus Loves You" Here is a sample of some of his work.
Tonight I did a search on the internet to find out more about this evangelist and found a really interesting article on the man called by God to "Fill the skies with His praises".
http://www.flcath.org/articles/2005/050819/050819-pb-acepilotforchrist.htm
It certainly causes quite a stir but a good one!! Bless you Jerry Stevens!!!
Tonight I did a search on the internet to find out more about this evangelist and found a really interesting article on the man called by God to "Fill the skies with His praises".
http://www.flcath.org/articles/2005/050819/050819-pb-acepilotforchrist.htm
It certainly causes quite a stir but a good one!! Bless you Jerry Stevens!!!
Disney World Florida
We went to Disney World in Florida from September 18th to the 24th. God really did some wonderful healing during that trip with my daughter and my husband. They don't even realize the force that heals them. Clue: it wasn't a Star Wars force it was the Greatest Strength and Force in Jesus Christ.
Disney is an amazing place. Here is one picture and for more go to:
Photo Album
Disney is an amazing place. Here is one picture and for more go to:
Photo Album
Saturday, August 26, 2006
God is so faithful
Today is my 44th birthday. There was a time when I would get all wound up and expect others to run to me and wish me a year of happiness. I guess I'm at an age now where birthdays are not such a big deal anymore. I am not really in need of any material possessions to wish for a certain gift. I have all that I really need that way in life. I feel blessed in many ways as God has been busy working a couple of miracles in our home. My husband has realized the importance his role in my daughter's life actually is. He has a softened heart for her. He is seeing her through the eyes of Jesus (he would never realize that though!). He sees her pain of her own absent father. Her need for unconditional love and approval. He sees that this may have led to her behavior of the last couple of years or more. He also has acknowledged that he has been no support to me in dealing with these trails in the past. God is good.
My prodical daughter also has experienced some change. She has been infected with Epstein Barr Virus, otherwise known as Mononeucliosis. My party girl will be grounded for a few weeks. Please pray that God will reveal Himself to her at this time and that she will receive His love.
Not that I needed confirmation, but these events of late confirm His words to me about my daughter not moving out on her own. She isn't supposed to leave so that both she and my husband can experience healing.
He is so faithful!!
My prodical daughter also has experienced some change. She has been infected with Epstein Barr Virus, otherwise known as Mononeucliosis. My party girl will be grounded for a few weeks. Please pray that God will reveal Himself to her at this time and that she will receive His love.
Not that I needed confirmation, but these events of late confirm His words to me about my daughter not moving out on her own. She isn't supposed to leave so that both she and my husband can experience healing.
He is so faithful!!
Monday, August 14, 2006
REMARKABLY GOOD NEWS FROM IRAQ
I have checked and this article is authentic. Continue to pray for the people of Iraq.
REMARKABLY GOOD NEWS FROM IRAQ
By Joel C. Rosenberg
(WASHINGTON, D.C., May 23, 2006) -- Unprecedented religious freedom has finally come to Iraq because of U.S. military action there, and more Iraqi Muslims are becoming followers of Jesus Christ today than at any other time in the history of the country.
That was the message delivered by retired Iraqi General Georges Sada last night at a private dinner just outside of Washington, D.C., and then at McLean Bible Church in northern Virginia where Sada spoke to more than 1,000 people.
Sada and I first met by phone in March when I interviewed him for EPICENTER, the non-fiction book I'm writing about the future of the Middle East. Intrigued by his remarkable personal story, I invited him to come Washington to share his experiences and perspective with our congregation. It was an extraordinary evening.
Sada described in detail how Saddam moved stockpiles of weapons of mass destruction to Syria in the summer of 2002, a story that is now being closely analyzed by the CIA, DIA and Congressional intelligence committees. He received an emotional ovation when he described how he refused to execute U.S. and British prisoners of war in 1991, despite direct orders by Qusay Hussein, Saddam's son. That move led to his dismissal from the military in February 1991, though -- thank God -- not to his own execution.
Just as moving where the stories Sada shared about what God is doing in Iraq today. Such stories are rarely told in the American press, though the Washington Times, to their credit, covered Sada's visit, and ran an excellent front-page story this morning. [See below]
The Kurds in the north of Iraq, for example, are especially receptive to the gospel message and are converting to Christianity "by the hundreds," Sada reported. One evangelical church recently started in Kurdistan now has more than 800 people worshipping there every week, most of whom are new converts from Islam. Sada told me that some 5,000 Iraqis have publicly identified themselves as new followers of Christ since Iraq was liberated, and that an estimated eight out ten Iraqi believers say they converted because Jesus appeared to them in dreams or visions.
In a new and very positive development, Nechirvan Barzani, the prime minister of Kurdistan Regional Government in Irbil, has vowed to protect the ancient Assyrian Christian community there as well as new believers from persecution and violence. Sada and Dr. Terry Law, president of World Compassion, a Christian relief organization based in Oklahoma, met with Barzani last week. "I would rather see a Muslim become a Christian than a radical Muslim," Barzani told them, an absolutely remarkable statement by a Muslim leader in a land wracked by sectarian violence,
One of the things I found most inspiring was when Sada said that Saddam Hussein's throne room in his main palace in Baghdad had been turned into an evangelical church after the war. Once Saddam used that room to order thousands of people to be executed, but now the name of Jesus Christ -- the King of kings and the Lord of lords -- is praised there instead. (I know e3 staff who have worshiped there -- Linda) Sada also said tens of thousands of Bibles were being printed in Iraq. Thousands more are being shipped into Iraq, and Christian programming is now available to Iraqis on satellite television.
Sada, a former air force fighter pilot who once served as a senior military advisor to Saddam Hussein, became the chief spokesman for Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi during the interim government, just after the war. Now he serves as a senior national security advisor to Iraqi President Jalal Talabani and has been helping redesign the new Iraqi military, along with his efforts to strengthen the Christian church in Iraq. His recent best-selling book, Saddam's Secrets: How an Iraqi General Defied and Survived Saddam Hussein, is an absolutely fascinating description of how Sada became a follower of Christ, rose through the ranks of the Iraqi Air Force, ended up working so closely with Saddam, and now works for peace and reconciliation in the name of Jesus.
Sada concluded the evening with a heart-felt message of thanks to the American people for liberating his country and said all peace-loving people should "kneel down and thank the [American] mothers and fathers who have sacrificed their sons and daughters for the sake of freedom in Iraq." He asked for patience as Iraq's fledgling democracy builds a foundation and finds its way. But he also said there is far more good news in Iraq today than is being reported by the national news media.
Why is he taking such risks to share the good news? I asked him. "There is an Arab proverb which says, 'Don't be a mute Satan,'" he told me. "If you know the truth, you have an obligation to tell everyone."
REMARKABLY GOOD NEWS FROM IRAQ
By Joel C. Rosenberg
(WASHINGTON, D.C., May 23, 2006) -- Unprecedented religious freedom has finally come to Iraq because of U.S. military action there, and more Iraqi Muslims are becoming followers of Jesus Christ today than at any other time in the history of the country.
That was the message delivered by retired Iraqi General Georges Sada last night at a private dinner just outside of Washington, D.C., and then at McLean Bible Church in northern Virginia where Sada spoke to more than 1,000 people.
Sada and I first met by phone in March when I interviewed him for EPICENTER, the non-fiction book I'm writing about the future of the Middle East. Intrigued by his remarkable personal story, I invited him to come Washington to share his experiences and perspective with our congregation. It was an extraordinary evening.
Sada described in detail how Saddam moved stockpiles of weapons of mass destruction to Syria in the summer of 2002, a story that is now being closely analyzed by the CIA, DIA and Congressional intelligence committees. He received an emotional ovation when he described how he refused to execute U.S. and British prisoners of war in 1991, despite direct orders by Qusay Hussein, Saddam's son. That move led to his dismissal from the military in February 1991, though -- thank God -- not to his own execution.
Just as moving where the stories Sada shared about what God is doing in Iraq today. Such stories are rarely told in the American press, though the Washington Times, to their credit, covered Sada's visit, and ran an excellent front-page story this morning. [See below]
The Kurds in the north of Iraq, for example, are especially receptive to the gospel message and are converting to Christianity "by the hundreds," Sada reported. One evangelical church recently started in Kurdistan now has more than 800 people worshipping there every week, most of whom are new converts from Islam. Sada told me that some 5,000 Iraqis have publicly identified themselves as new followers of Christ since Iraq was liberated, and that an estimated eight out ten Iraqi believers say they converted because Jesus appeared to them in dreams or visions.
In a new and very positive development, Nechirvan Barzani, the prime minister of Kurdistan Regional Government in Irbil, has vowed to protect the ancient Assyrian Christian community there as well as new believers from persecution and violence. Sada and Dr. Terry Law, president of World Compassion, a Christian relief organization based in Oklahoma, met with Barzani last week. "I would rather see a Muslim become a Christian than a radical Muslim," Barzani told them, an absolutely remarkable statement by a Muslim leader in a land wracked by sectarian violence,
One of the things I found most inspiring was when Sada said that Saddam Hussein's throne room in his main palace in Baghdad had been turned into an evangelical church after the war. Once Saddam used that room to order thousands of people to be executed, but now the name of Jesus Christ -- the King of kings and the Lord of lords -- is praised there instead. (I know e3 staff who have worshiped there -- Linda) Sada also said tens of thousands of Bibles were being printed in Iraq. Thousands more are being shipped into Iraq, and Christian programming is now available to Iraqis on satellite television.
Sada, a former air force fighter pilot who once served as a senior military advisor to Saddam Hussein, became the chief spokesman for Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi during the interim government, just after the war. Now he serves as a senior national security advisor to Iraqi President Jalal Talabani and has been helping redesign the new Iraqi military, along with his efforts to strengthen the Christian church in Iraq. His recent best-selling book, Saddam's Secrets: How an Iraqi General Defied and Survived Saddam Hussein, is an absolutely fascinating description of how Sada became a follower of Christ, rose through the ranks of the Iraqi Air Force, ended up working so closely with Saddam, and now works for peace and reconciliation in the name of Jesus.
Sada concluded the evening with a heart-felt message of thanks to the American people for liberating his country and said all peace-loving people should "kneel down and thank the [American] mothers and fathers who have sacrificed their sons and daughters for the sake of freedom in Iraq." He asked for patience as Iraq's fledgling democracy builds a foundation and finds its way. But he also said there is far more good news in Iraq today than is being reported by the national news media.
Why is he taking such risks to share the good news? I asked him. "There is an Arab proverb which says, 'Don't be a mute Satan,'" he told me. "If you know the truth, you have an obligation to tell everyone."
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Erie Shores Wind Farm
Last Saturday, which was Canada Day, we went for a drive to the wind farm about 30 minutes from our home. I found it to be breath taking. These pictures do not capture the beauty of these windmills. For more information check out:
Erie Shores Wind Farm
Erie Shores Wind Farm
This Requires a Miracle!
Over the last few weeks, we have been having several challenges to deal with in regards to my teenage daughter. Her goal has been to move out of the house when she turned 19, which was on the 6th. Her lifestyle and friends have been in conflict with ours for these several weeks. Ironically, this lifestyle change in her life has also coincided with the absence of any contact with her father. This is not the first time this has happened. When she was 16 there was an 18 month period that her father chose not to have any contact with her. While I don't "blame" her poor choices on him, there is ample evidence to suggest that a father's presence is cruicial in a child's life. The acceptance and nurturing helps to shape a young woman or a young man's personality.
That being said, the latest choice to move out has taken on several scenerios. First, she was moving in with another girlfriend and the fact that my daughter no long had a job didn't seem to be an obstacle. This fact has now changed and that door has been closed. The latest goal has been to move in with "several" people of questionable character in a lakeside town near here. Last night I decided in a moment of despiration, to call her father. I asked him if it were possible that she come and stay with him just for a few days. I could hear the hesitation in his voice. I shared the challenges that we have been dealing with. He has not seen his daughter since February and only lives an hour away. He spoke with her on the phone and essentially told her that this was not an option. She was quite upset when she got off of the phone. She no longer wants to call him "Dad" as she feels that his allegiance is to his new (and third) wife and her three children. In all honesty he has not really been a father to her since she was 5. The rejection in her voice was certainly evident. I'm not sure how a parent can reject a child like that but this has certainly not been the first time.
While in the pool last night, I was praying to the Lord and asking Him why all of these doors for her to move out are being closed? He spoke to me in a still small voice saying, "Because she isn't supposed to leave." I was shocked. I really felt that her leaving was going to be the answer to the turmoil in our family. It is what she wanted and we were wanting that too. My husband's statement is, "If she doens't move out, I will!".
So Lord, you have to do a miracle here. Not only will you need to soften my husband's heart to have compassion for my daughter, but you also have to change the heart of my daughter. She needs to change her lifestyle and get onto a track of right living.
I have to say, the task seems daunting. This has been an uphill battle from day one. But I have to say that something changed in me last night. I can't put it into words just now, but there is more peace. I slept better last night than I had in ages. I feel a love for my husband that I haven't felt in weeks. A new hope in my daughter's life has caused me not to feel so defeated and hopeless about her future.
I guess He has already performed one miracle and that is in me.
That being said, the latest choice to move out has taken on several scenerios. First, she was moving in with another girlfriend and the fact that my daughter no long had a job didn't seem to be an obstacle. This fact has now changed and that door has been closed. The latest goal has been to move in with "several" people of questionable character in a lakeside town near here. Last night I decided in a moment of despiration, to call her father. I asked him if it were possible that she come and stay with him just for a few days. I could hear the hesitation in his voice. I shared the challenges that we have been dealing with. He has not seen his daughter since February and only lives an hour away. He spoke with her on the phone and essentially told her that this was not an option. She was quite upset when she got off of the phone. She no longer wants to call him "Dad" as she feels that his allegiance is to his new (and third) wife and her three children. In all honesty he has not really been a father to her since she was 5. The rejection in her voice was certainly evident. I'm not sure how a parent can reject a child like that but this has certainly not been the first time.
While in the pool last night, I was praying to the Lord and asking Him why all of these doors for her to move out are being closed? He spoke to me in a still small voice saying, "Because she isn't supposed to leave." I was shocked. I really felt that her leaving was going to be the answer to the turmoil in our family. It is what she wanted and we were wanting that too. My husband's statement is, "If she doens't move out, I will!".
So Lord, you have to do a miracle here. Not only will you need to soften my husband's heart to have compassion for my daughter, but you also have to change the heart of my daughter. She needs to change her lifestyle and get onto a track of right living.
I have to say, the task seems daunting. This has been an uphill battle from day one. But I have to say that something changed in me last night. I can't put it into words just now, but there is more peace. I slept better last night than I had in ages. I feel a love for my husband that I haven't felt in weeks. A new hope in my daughter's life has caused me not to feel so defeated and hopeless about her future.
I guess He has already performed one miracle and that is in me.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Graduation Day
Well, my dear daughter graduated from high school last night. What started as a bitter sweet decision on her part to actually attend and participate, turned into a beautiful, but long evening. Having attended a Roman Catholic High School, the ceremony was bathed in prayer with a special message from the parish priest. Thankfully Mother Mary wasn't mentioned. As much as I don't agree with some aspects of the Catholic faith and the whole mariology, there are many similarities. The priest shared about the Holy Spirit or the Spirit of Truth that he said lived within "us". Of course I interpret that as "born again" Christians, but I know that is not the jest of what those of the Catholic faith believe. He spoke of following the Spirit of Truth in our lives and putting Jesus Christ at the center. I appreciated the message but it was unfortunate that many of the graduates probably thought that is was a long and boring message that they didn't understand. I don't doubt that there are some regenerated Christians in their midst that would receive that message, but on the whole I'm guessing that the over 1000 guests that were in attendance may not understand the meaning. Generous claims put Christians in Canada at around 15%. I hesitate to guess that that number is more like 2% of the population that profess to be born again Christians. Certainly the minority in many ways. That said, I still appreciated the Christian flavor at the ceremony compared to the public board. Of course both high schools in our town had their graduations and even though the Catholic kids received the message of Christ, many of them still went to the massive grad party that lasted into the morning just like their public high school friends. Pretty hard to be "holy" and "set apart" when there is little difference in life style.
I feel for the kids of today and especially if they are trying to be "set apart". The "World" tells our kids that as long as they practice "safe sex" they can do as they please. Alcohol and drugs are a way of life and the more the better. Satan is having a hay day with our young people. He is successful at deceiving the majority of them. No child is completely safe and immune from falling into sin. We deceive ourselves if we think they are. The most sheltered and indoctrinated child can develop a twinge of curiousity that will cause them to stumble. Certainly I believe that the Christian home has a better foundation to steer clear of Satan, but we always have to be on guard and stand in the gap for our kids. Praying hedges of protection when our children are not in our midst is crucial at every age. Television and internet have opened up a whole new avenue for temptation. Even the most complicated of internet filters can be overcome by the devious mind.
I think I have gone into a bit of a rant here, but I guess it comes with the territory of being the mom of a teenager. Praying for and handing over my child to the Lord on a daily basis is a priority that I need to be more committed to.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
What's In a Dream?
Today I was chatting with my Mother on MSN and she happened to share that she had a dream about me last night. With a giggle I asked her what the dream was about. She replied that in the dream I was in the "Witness Protection Program". I laughed out loud at that one. What would I ever have to testify to in order that I would have to be protected or even change my identity and move away from my friends and family? A frightening thought when I really think about it actually.
Then my Mom clarified the dream. She said that "I" was the witness and "God" was my protection. That statement stopped me in my typing tracks. I wasn't able to chat more with her and discover more details, but I have pondered that statement through the day. Am I a true "witness" for the Lord and do I rest in His protection and love the way I should. Do I often, if ever, step out of my comfort zone as a witness for Christ knowing that He is with me each step of the way?
I will keep you posted as to the rest of the meaning of Mom's dream but for know I will continue to ponder how the Lord wants me to grow from that statement.
Then my Mom clarified the dream. She said that "I" was the witness and "God" was my protection. That statement stopped me in my typing tracks. I wasn't able to chat more with her and discover more details, but I have pondered that statement through the day. Am I a true "witness" for the Lord and do I rest in His protection and love the way I should. Do I often, if ever, step out of my comfort zone as a witness for Christ knowing that He is with me each step of the way?
I will keep you posted as to the rest of the meaning of Mom's dream but for know I will continue to ponder how the Lord wants me to grow from that statement.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
May God be Glorified!
Today was the day that we said our goodbyes to our brother and friend, Murray. I guess "goodbye" is actually not an good word, but more like, "See you later dude!" would suit Murray more accurately. Murray is with Jesus and the Lord actually gave me a funny word picture during the service. The picture was of Murray jumping in the air and clicking his heels in an Irish Jig type fashion. I shared it with my friend beside me and we both had a little giggle, because that suited Murray. My friend shared a much closer bond with him and because of that, this friend needs our prayers. My friend is a fairly new believer and the whole "eternity thing" isn't quite as solidified as it may be with a more seasoned Christian. Murray's absence will leave an emptiness in this person's life. This emptiness can only be filled with Jesus Christ. We can try to fill it with friends or work or family, but none will ever satisfy the longing we have for the Lord.
Our pastor did a wonderful job of delivering the message today. He shared the life, struggles and victories of Murray's life. The Gospel was presented clearly. The majority of people there were believers. You could tell that due to the absence of alot of sobbing during the service. Jesus Christ is the hope of every believer and heaven is our longing and our true home.
Murray's family are also believers. God's grace and forgiveness was such a powerful force following the service that I sit again in true awe and wonder of His awesome love.
Tomorrow night we will meet for our care group as we normally would. Murray's absence will be evident. He would want everyone to go on. He would want us to expereince a closer relationship with Christ and the healing that can only occur with Him as the driving force in our lives.
Amen
Our pastor did a wonderful job of delivering the message today. He shared the life, struggles and victories of Murray's life. The Gospel was presented clearly. The majority of people there were believers. You could tell that due to the absence of alot of sobbing during the service. Jesus Christ is the hope of every believer and heaven is our longing and our true home.
Murray's family are also believers. God's grace and forgiveness was such a powerful force following the service that I sit again in true awe and wonder of His awesome love.
Tomorrow night we will meet for our care group as we normally would. Murray's absence will be evident. He would want everyone to go on. He would want us to expereince a closer relationship with Christ and the healing that can only occur with Him as the driving force in our lives.
Amen
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Memorial
Homesick
(by Mercy Me)
You're in a better place, I've heard a thousand times
And at least a thousand times I've rejoiced for you
But the reason why I'm broken, the reason why I cry
Is how long must I wait to be with you
I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now
Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways
The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know
But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same
Cause I'm still here so far away from home
I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now
In Christ, there are no goodbyes
And in Christ, there is no end
So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have
To see you again
To see you again
And I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now
In Memory of Our Dear Friend and Brother
Murray Boyd
(by Mercy Me)
You're in a better place, I've heard a thousand times
And at least a thousand times I've rejoiced for you
But the reason why I'm broken, the reason why I cry
Is how long must I wait to be with you
I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now
Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways
The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know
But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same
Cause I'm still here so far away from home
I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now
In Christ, there are no goodbyes
And in Christ, there is no end
So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have
To see you again
To see you again
And I close my eyes and I see your face
If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place
Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow
I've never been more homesick than now
In Memory of Our Dear Friend and Brother
Murray Boyd
Saturday, June 17, 2006
A Man After God's Own Heart
I have had the honour of facilitating a group at church that ministers to people going through separation and divorce. Divorce Care is a ministy that runs around the world and is a blessing for those in that chapter in their lives. How I wish such a group existed when I was going through my divorce 15 years ago.
Last night a tragedy struck our group. One of our dear brothers, Murray was killed in a motorcycle accident. He was only 47 years old and had two teenage children that he adored. Murray struggled daily with guilt regarding these children and what he felt he didn't give to them as a father. Murray was indeed a good father. He had a relationship with his children and even though he wasn't living with them, he talked with them daily and even would text message his son all the time. Murray lamented over his broken family and would unrealistically blame himself for many things. He struggled with forgiving himself even though he knew that Christ had forgiven him long ago. Our last session of Divorce Care was on forgiveness. The pain in Murray's eyes was heartbreaking. He couldn't bring himself to forgive his past mistakes.
I often thought of Murray much like King David. David's life was overwhelmed with sin. He had remorse that was often more than he could handle. One only has to read the Psalms to see the depression and guilt that David suffered. But David was a "Man after God's own heart". David sought the Lord with his heart, mind and soul. Murray was much like that. He was a man after God's own heart. I teased Murray last week at care group about his duct tape on his Bible. That was a sign of a Bible that was used over and over. Murray would often share how the frustration of the day was relieved with the reading of God's Word and the prayer to His Father. It would bring Murray some sort of peace for the time.
I'm going to miss Murray at our group. He would always sit down at the table and open his book to the homework of the week that he faithfully completed. He always had a question to challenge me about Scripture and its true meaning. I felt ill equipped to be put on the spot like that sometimes but with the help of the group, God would always provide us with an answer that seemed to clear the meaning for Murray.
Murray is with the Father now. He has the joy he was seeking. He has now experienced what true forgiveness really is. I wish he had realized it while he was here with us but that doesn't matter much now. We need to carry a bit of Murray in our hearts. We need to challenge our thinking and question what God's Word really means. We can accept it by faith, but understand its meaning to pass it on to others. I feel blessed for knowing Murray for this short time. I look forward to seeing him again in the life eternal that awaits those who love the Lord.
Amen
Last night a tragedy struck our group. One of our dear brothers, Murray was killed in a motorcycle accident. He was only 47 years old and had two teenage children that he adored. Murray struggled daily with guilt regarding these children and what he felt he didn't give to them as a father. Murray was indeed a good father. He had a relationship with his children and even though he wasn't living with them, he talked with them daily and even would text message his son all the time. Murray lamented over his broken family and would unrealistically blame himself for many things. He struggled with forgiving himself even though he knew that Christ had forgiven him long ago. Our last session of Divorce Care was on forgiveness. The pain in Murray's eyes was heartbreaking. He couldn't bring himself to forgive his past mistakes.
I often thought of Murray much like King David. David's life was overwhelmed with sin. He had remorse that was often more than he could handle. One only has to read the Psalms to see the depression and guilt that David suffered. But David was a "Man after God's own heart". David sought the Lord with his heart, mind and soul. Murray was much like that. He was a man after God's own heart. I teased Murray last week at care group about his duct tape on his Bible. That was a sign of a Bible that was used over and over. Murray would often share how the frustration of the day was relieved with the reading of God's Word and the prayer to His Father. It would bring Murray some sort of peace for the time.
I'm going to miss Murray at our group. He would always sit down at the table and open his book to the homework of the week that he faithfully completed. He always had a question to challenge me about Scripture and its true meaning. I felt ill equipped to be put on the spot like that sometimes but with the help of the group, God would always provide us with an answer that seemed to clear the meaning for Murray.
Murray is with the Father now. He has the joy he was seeking. He has now experienced what true forgiveness really is. I wish he had realized it while he was here with us but that doesn't matter much now. We need to carry a bit of Murray in our hearts. We need to challenge our thinking and question what God's Word really means. We can accept it by faith, but understand its meaning to pass it on to others. I feel blessed for knowing Murray for this short time. I look forward to seeing him again in the life eternal that awaits those who love the Lord.
Amen
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
My Prodigal Child
I have a prodigal child in my dear daughter. By dictionary definition the prodigal is "Rashly or wastefully extravagant". This is my girl! She has brought me much joy in life along with much despair. We have had seasons of this despair and this is one of them. I have periods during this time when I take my eyes off of my Savior and on to the situation and I weep. I weep in fear and terror. My God is not a god of fear that title belongs to the enemy. My hope needs to be in Christ. Well meaning brothers and sisters point out my prodigal's comings and goings. They share her shortcomings with me and advise me in disciplinary measures. This only aids the enemy in taking my eyes off of my Savior, her Savior.
The parent of a prodigal already knows their comings and goings. The parent of a prodigal already is well aware of their short comings. In reminding them only intensifies the grief and stokes the fire of fear.
The parent of the prodigal needs encouragement and they need prayer. Remind this parent that you are also praying for this child. If God is calling you to reach out to this prodigal, DO IT! This parent is also praying for a godly person to come alongside of her prodigal. It may not be you, but it may be you.
Not only am I a parent of a prodigal but I am also the wife of a non-believing husband who is the prodigal's step parent. The lack of emotional and spiritual support further compounds the pain. The ultimatum of having to choose between a child or spouse should never be a reality but hence it is more real than I care to admit at this time.
I took my eyes off of Him. Until this morning. He is in control. He is asking me as He did Abraham. I need to take my prodigal to the altar and trust Him that He will provide the lamb. He will open the doors that need to be opened and close the ones that are never to be entered. Standing in the gap for those who are astray is not only a privilege but it is essential obedience.
The parent of a prodigal already knows their comings and goings. The parent of a prodigal already is well aware of their short comings. In reminding them only intensifies the grief and stokes the fire of fear.
The parent of the prodigal needs encouragement and they need prayer. Remind this parent that you are also praying for this child. If God is calling you to reach out to this prodigal, DO IT! This parent is also praying for a godly person to come alongside of her prodigal. It may not be you, but it may be you.
Not only am I a parent of a prodigal but I am also the wife of a non-believing husband who is the prodigal's step parent. The lack of emotional and spiritual support further compounds the pain. The ultimatum of having to choose between a child or spouse should never be a reality but hence it is more real than I care to admit at this time.
I took my eyes off of Him. Until this morning. He is in control. He is asking me as He did Abraham. I need to take my prodigal to the altar and trust Him that He will provide the lamb. He will open the doors that need to be opened and close the ones that are never to be entered. Standing in the gap for those who are astray is not only a privilege but it is essential obedience.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Courtney
Today I go to work at 3:00pm to look after a 13 year old girl by the name of Courtney. I have been caring for her on and off for about five years now. Courtney is functionally deaf-blind, fed by a gastric tube, mobilizes in a wheelchair and functions at about a four year old level. as well as the size of one. Right now I can hear all the people saying things like "Oh the poor thing!" and "What a tragedy!” Let me tell you, over five years ago I may have said the same thing. Caring for "Medically Fragile" children was about the last thing I ever wanted to do. They scared me far too much. They also reminded me of what can "go wrong" during a pregnancy. Courtney has provided a paradigm shift for me.
This little girl has provided so much joy for those who are in her life. You can't help but love her from the first moment you meet her. Even though she has the "deaf-blind" label she sees and hears everything you say. Her verbalization sounds more like a fast paced babble, but unless she is cross and probably swearing at you, her words will bring nothing but a smile to your face. She uses some sign language to communicate some of her "demands" (of which this 13 year old has just as many as any other 13 year old!!!) I have picked up alot of that language over the years.
She is also very "busy". I call her a "Toddler on Wheels". You cannot take your eyes off of this little peanut or she is off like a flash on that wheelchair into anything she can get her hands on.
Looking after this sweetie does take some energy, but it is some of the most enjoyable work that I do as a nurse. I often joke and say that I can't believe they pay me to do this and that I would do it for free!! I honestly would do it for free. I'm sure that Christ puts the little Courtneys in our lives to demonstrate His love for them as well as showing love and care for the "least of these" in the world. I'm thankful that this girl is in my life
This little girl has provided so much joy for those who are in her life. You can't help but love her from the first moment you meet her. Even though she has the "deaf-blind" label she sees and hears everything you say. Her verbalization sounds more like a fast paced babble, but unless she is cross and probably swearing at you, her words will bring nothing but a smile to your face. She uses some sign language to communicate some of her "demands" (of which this 13 year old has just as many as any other 13 year old!!!) I have picked up alot of that language over the years.
She is also very "busy". I call her a "Toddler on Wheels". You cannot take your eyes off of this little peanut or she is off like a flash on that wheelchair into anything she can get her hands on.
Looking after this sweetie does take some energy, but it is some of the most enjoyable work that I do as a nurse. I often joke and say that I can't believe they pay me to do this and that I would do it for free!! I honestly would do it for free. I'm sure that Christ puts the little Courtneys in our lives to demonstrate His love for them as well as showing love and care for the "least of these" in the world. I'm thankful that this girl is in my life
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Lord
Lord you are with me
Each day.
Unchanging.
My Rock.
Even when I turn my back
To do things
My way.
The floor falls
From under my feet
Life unglued.
Haphazard living.
Your hand
Reaches down.
Waiting for mine
To reach up.
You never lose hope
In me.
Even when I feel
All hope is lost.
Thank You
For Your unconditional love,
Your steadfast love
Never ceasing.
Amen
Each day.
Unchanging.
My Rock.
Even when I turn my back
To do things
My way.
The floor falls
From under my feet
Life unglued.
Haphazard living.
Your hand
Reaches down.
Waiting for mine
To reach up.
You never lose hope
In me.
Even when I feel
All hope is lost.
Thank You
For Your unconditional love,
Your steadfast love
Never ceasing.
Amen
Monday, May 29, 2006
Change is Good?
I have heard the saying before that "Change is Good". Part of me believes that is true. It isn't Scriptural, even though some may quote it as such but it is really what our life in Christ is. I love to be comfortable, who doesn't? When I am comfortable I like things to stay just the way they are so that I can bask in that comfort. I don't have to put forth much effort in anything when I am comfortable. I can stay the way I am and things will never change. Or will they? When I get too comfortable, life can become monotonous. I begin to move and speak the same way to the same people and do the same things day after day. It is much like the robot society. There is no direction and no purpose. Life can get into a proverbial "rut".
Christ loves us so much the way we are but He also loves us too much to leave us there. But why can't others change? Why must it always be me? Jesus is calling me to "act" and not "re-act" to the crossroads in my life. He is calling me to be obedient. Others obedience is up to them and the call He has on their life. Why can't they hear His voice? Why must I always hear it and have the responsibility to be obedient? Why is it up to me to love others unconditionally when their love to me imposes so many conditions?
My crossroad now calls me to love and support my family unconditionally. Judgement is not for me. I will act as Jesus would. I will hate the sin and love the sinner. I will reflect His love to others that seem to have forgotten how much He loves them. He has made me the conduit of His purpose in their lives.
These changes make me uncomfortable. This life I have to live isn't cushy. Then again, as I have shared before, "God is more concerned with our character than He is our comfort."
Christ loves us so much the way we are but He also loves us too much to leave us there. But why can't others change? Why must it always be me? Jesus is calling me to "act" and not "re-act" to the crossroads in my life. He is calling me to be obedient. Others obedience is up to them and the call He has on their life. Why can't they hear His voice? Why must I always hear it and have the responsibility to be obedient? Why is it up to me to love others unconditionally when their love to me imposes so many conditions?
My crossroad now calls me to love and support my family unconditionally. Judgement is not for me. I will act as Jesus would. I will hate the sin and love the sinner. I will reflect His love to others that seem to have forgotten how much He loves them. He has made me the conduit of His purpose in their lives.
These changes make me uncomfortable. This life I have to live isn't cushy. Then again, as I have shared before, "God is more concerned with our character than He is our comfort."
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Prom Night
This is my beautiful daughter (blonde on the left)and her two friends getting ready for the prom tonight. They all look quite lovely. Now I just need to pray that they get home safely tonight!
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Therapeutic Touch
Whenever I hear the term therapeutic touch I get chills up my spine. TT as it is known in the New Age Medicine circles is birthed out of Eastern faith circles and is not a Christ centered practice. The other day I experienced a therapeutic touch that was totally of the Lord.
Violet is an elderly client that I visit who lives at home with her daughter. Violet suffers from bipolar disorder as well as schizophrenia. Her daughter who is now in her fifties was only six when her mother was first ill, so in some respects, this daughter has raised herself and her mother. Old treatments and medications have taken their toll on this woman who sat before me in a near catatonic state. There is little that can be done for her now because of the lasting side effects. She is often does not speak with her mouth but you can see it in her eyes. I look into her eyes and see right into her soul longing to come out and present itself to the world. My heart aches when I visit this woman. The Lord has given me so much compassion for her. When I have reached out to touch her face I have felt her pull back. However this last visit I asked the daughter if her Mom would mind if I hugged her. The daughter said that Mom would most certainly like a hug. When I asked Violet if I could hug her, her arms reached out for me. I hugged her and I felt her arms wrap around me and hug like she had never been hugged before. She wouldn't let go and held on for dear life. When I finally had to break the hold, she had a faint smile on her face. Not a real smile like you and I would manage, but a slight curvature of the mouth. This was all her face would allow her to make but I knew that inside she was smiling from ear to ear.
I tell this story not to lift myself but to encourage others to reach out. I was blessed as much if not more than Violet was. Only our merciful God could orchestrate moments like this. I love being His messenger. My only prayer is to be more open and obedient to these moments to bless others.
Violet is an elderly client that I visit who lives at home with her daughter. Violet suffers from bipolar disorder as well as schizophrenia. Her daughter who is now in her fifties was only six when her mother was first ill, so in some respects, this daughter has raised herself and her mother. Old treatments and medications have taken their toll on this woman who sat before me in a near catatonic state. There is little that can be done for her now because of the lasting side effects. She is often does not speak with her mouth but you can see it in her eyes. I look into her eyes and see right into her soul longing to come out and present itself to the world. My heart aches when I visit this woman. The Lord has given me so much compassion for her. When I have reached out to touch her face I have felt her pull back. However this last visit I asked the daughter if her Mom would mind if I hugged her. The daughter said that Mom would most certainly like a hug. When I asked Violet if I could hug her, her arms reached out for me. I hugged her and I felt her arms wrap around me and hug like she had never been hugged before. She wouldn't let go and held on for dear life. When I finally had to break the hold, she had a faint smile on her face. Not a real smile like you and I would manage, but a slight curvature of the mouth. This was all her face would allow her to make but I knew that inside she was smiling from ear to ear.
I tell this story not to lift myself but to encourage others to reach out. I was blessed as much if not more than Violet was. Only our merciful God could orchestrate moments like this. I love being His messenger. My only prayer is to be more open and obedient to these moments to bless others.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Still Alive
I haven't blogged in some time and I decided to play around with the blogskin yesterday. I quite like this one. It reflects me in so many ways or more who I desire to be.
I had signed up for the summer semester for my degree program, even though when I started all this, I vowed not to work in the summer. Well, I have now dropped my summer course because I have realized between work, kids and just summer in general, it would be far to overwhelming to complete a course on the Theorists of Nursing. I will register again in the fall. The manic part of me would like to register for two but the level part of me thinks that may be a bit too much. I will see how the next few weeks go. I am glad that I have dropped the course and feel much more freedom to enjoy the summer and the pool.
There have been some changes at work with staff on my team. There have been some stressful moments to say the least. The new staff was "re-acting" instead of "acting" to differences in our team. The in-fighting that was occurring was so reminisent of my days at the hospital. Women can be so brutal. I found myself getting caught up in old sinful patterns that the Lord had removed me from long ago. The thought of the upcoming team meeting sent me into a tailspin emotionally. I was overwhelmed with my sinful patterns and thoughts that I literally felt sick the day of the meeting. Two days prior I began to pray about the meeting, for the new staff member and the current ones. Confession and forgiveness was needed desperately. God was and is so gracious when we confess our sins. The meeting went well in my eyes and there was much accomplished. God truly was the Chair of that meeting, even if the others were not aware of that. There was a peace that went beyond understanding. There is still a long way to go to establish the trust and cohesiveness that our team once enjoyed but I know with prayer, He will mend the broken bonds.
I had signed up for the summer semester for my degree program, even though when I started all this, I vowed not to work in the summer. Well, I have now dropped my summer course because I have realized between work, kids and just summer in general, it would be far to overwhelming to complete a course on the Theorists of Nursing. I will register again in the fall. The manic part of me would like to register for two but the level part of me thinks that may be a bit too much. I will see how the next few weeks go. I am glad that I have dropped the course and feel much more freedom to enjoy the summer and the pool.
There have been some changes at work with staff on my team. There have been some stressful moments to say the least. The new staff was "re-acting" instead of "acting" to differences in our team. The in-fighting that was occurring was so reminisent of my days at the hospital. Women can be so brutal. I found myself getting caught up in old sinful patterns that the Lord had removed me from long ago. The thought of the upcoming team meeting sent me into a tailspin emotionally. I was overwhelmed with my sinful patterns and thoughts that I literally felt sick the day of the meeting. Two days prior I began to pray about the meeting, for the new staff member and the current ones. Confession and forgiveness was needed desperately. God was and is so gracious when we confess our sins. The meeting went well in my eyes and there was much accomplished. God truly was the Chair of that meeting, even if the others were not aware of that. There was a peace that went beyond understanding. There is still a long way to go to establish the trust and cohesiveness that our team once enjoyed but I know with prayer, He will mend the broken bonds.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
When God Tells You to Pray.
I was out walking yesterday and found some I.D. on the sidewalk. It was the bank card and health card that caught my eye first. I picked them up and a few feet further I found some pictures of children. There were some names on the pictures and it appeared that these were siblings of the bank card owner. This owner was a 17-year-old boy and by the Children's Aid benefit card, was not living at home with these siblings. I was able (with some fine detective work) to track down where this boy was living. He was living in a local motel room, at the courtesy of Children's Aid. I actually spoke with his mother on the phone and I could hear the frustration in her voice. Another person I spoke with, shared that this boy was known to get into trouble. I felt empathy for the mom. I have felt that frustration before with my own teenager and could understand why she had "washed her hands" of the situation. I'm sure there were so many times that those siblings were deeply effected by the poor choices of this boy. Mom had to make a painful choice. Perhaps she felt that if her son was to fall hard enough, he might get a dose of reality and realize he needed to change. I felt so connected to her.
When I took the I.D. to the motel, the door of the room was open but no one was there. There was the stench of last night's booze (and who knows what else) in the room. It was a pathetic sight of a dingy room, a double bed, a tiny fridge and a play station. What this boy probably thought was the Life of Riley, made me want to cry. These choices that he is making will affect the rest of his life. I gave the I.D. to the motel clerk and went on my way. For some reason I was hoping to see the boy. I wasn't sure what I would say to him, I just wanted to connect somehow. It was then that the Lord prompted me to pray for this boy. It was then that the Lord directed me to not only pray today but to continue to pray for him. I later found out that the police brought the boy back to the motel room to pack his things and he left in the cruiser. I have no idea what he has done. This is but another step in his short life of poor choices.
So as the Lord has burdened my heart, I will pray for "Quinn" and for him to discover the Living God that loves him dearly and has a much better plan for his life.
When I took the I.D. to the motel, the door of the room was open but no one was there. There was the stench of last night's booze (and who knows what else) in the room. It was a pathetic sight of a dingy room, a double bed, a tiny fridge and a play station. What this boy probably thought was the Life of Riley, made me want to cry. These choices that he is making will affect the rest of his life. I gave the I.D. to the motel clerk and went on my way. For some reason I was hoping to see the boy. I wasn't sure what I would say to him, I just wanted to connect somehow. It was then that the Lord prompted me to pray for this boy. It was then that the Lord directed me to not only pray today but to continue to pray for him. I later found out that the police brought the boy back to the motel room to pack his things and he left in the cruiser. I have no idea what he has done. This is but another step in his short life of poor choices.
So as the Lord has burdened my heart, I will pray for "Quinn" and for him to discover the Living God that loves him dearly and has a much better plan for his life.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Home Invasion
Today our home fell victim to a home invasion. While my husband was in bed getting prepared to work his night shift, three men entered our home. He heard the dogs barking and the rummaging around but because it was 12:30 in the afternoon, he thought our daughter perhaps was home from school for lunch and brought her noisy teenage friends. Then when his door opened up and a man walked in the bedroom, he realized that this was not a good situation. The man was also startled and ran up the stairs. Three men who had been rummaging in our home ran out the door and down the street. Of course the police were called and the whole process is in place but my husband was pretty shaken up. I was too when I came home from work and heard the whole story. Nothing was taken and my husband wasn't hurt. I am thankful for that. My children weren't home. They were safe at school. My pets were shaken up but pretty much unharmed. When I started to play out the scenerios in my mind of the things that "could have" happened I praise God that He preserved my husband keeping him safe from harm. The peace that I have right now can't be described. I don't like the idea that someone was through our home but I know God is sovereign and will work all of this into something that will glorify His name.
Friday, March 03, 2006
Judge not lest you be judged
My heart was so burdened today for the lost. The casual attitude that is so common today regarding sex, drugs and alcohol. Sex is not much more than a bodily function. Alcohol and drug consumption provide the medium required to reduce inhibitions towards sex. Much of our culture and generation has fallen victim to the consequences of casual sex. Divorce, single parent homes, kids living on the street, addictions and numerous types of depression to name a few.
During my time of burden this morning, the Lord spoke to my heart through a Christian radio program. I need to be careful not to judge too harshly against those who follow the accepted ways of the world. I need to check my own heart. These casual attitudes are birthed out of sin. The sin of instant gratification or the sin of putting "self" before all othersw. Have I ever acted selfishly? Have I demanded my own way? I know I have. That is not the way of Christ. That means I have to work on my own attitude in order to reflect His image. Does that mean I then can judge the lost? No. But I know the Lord has a call for me in this burden somewhere. Perhaps it is to pray for the lost more, or work in some other proactive way. Whatever He has for me to do I know He will give me the ways and means to carry out His will
During my time of burden this morning, the Lord spoke to my heart through a Christian radio program. I need to be careful not to judge too harshly against those who follow the accepted ways of the world. I need to check my own heart. These casual attitudes are birthed out of sin. The sin of instant gratification or the sin of putting "self" before all othersw. Have I ever acted selfishly? Have I demanded my own way? I know I have. That is not the way of Christ. That means I have to work on my own attitude in order to reflect His image. Does that mean I then can judge the lost? No. But I know the Lord has a call for me in this burden somewhere. Perhaps it is to pray for the lost more, or work in some other proactive way. Whatever He has for me to do I know He will give me the ways and means to carry out His will
Our Kids are Dying Out There
This isn't anything we haven't already heard before but lately I have had such a burden for our youth and the challenges that they face. Thirty years ago when I was a teenager, things were not a whole lot different but my eyes see the pain that these kind of relationships have caused my generation.
Sex Under the Influence of Alcohol and Other Drugs
From Denise Witmer,Your Guide to Parenting of Adolescents.
Alcohol and other drug use is linked to risky sexual behavior and poses significant threats to the health of adolescents. Substance abuse may impair adolescents' ability to make judgments about sex and contraception, placing them at increased risk for unplanned pregnancy, sexual assault, or becoming infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD), including HIV/AIDS.
We know the AIDS virus can be transmitted through sharing hypodermic needles. Less is known about the dangerous role of alcohol and other drugs in sexual behavior that may lead to STDs and HIV/AIDS. To compound matters, there is also considerable evidence that alcohol and other drugs weaken the immune system, thereby increasing susceptibility to infection and disease.
Consider the following statistics:
The use of alcohol and other drugs can affect judgment and lead to taking serious sexual risks. There were 18,540 cases of AIDS among 13- to 24-year-olds reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by the end of 1994.
About 75 percent of high school seniors have had sexual intercourse at least once in their lives; about 20 percent have had more than four sexual partners by their senior year.
Studies show that adolescents are less likely to use condoms when having sex after drinking alcohol than when sober. This places them at even higher risk for HIV infection, STDs, and unwanted pregnancy.
A survey of high school students found that 18 percent of females and 39 percent of males say it is acceptable for a boy to force sex if the girl is stoned or drunk.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HIV/AIDS has been the sixth leading cause of death among 15- to 20-year-olds in the United States for over three years. One in five of the new AIDS cases diagnosed is in the 20 to 29 year age group, meaning that HIV transmission occurred during the teen years. Additionally, more than half of new cases of HIV infection in 1994 were related to drug use.
There is still much to be learned about the relationship between alcohol and other drugs and sexual behavior. During the past decade, teens reported higher levels of sexual activity at earlier ages, experienced more unplanned pregnancies, and suffered higher rates of sexually transmitted diseases. To reduce the incidence of these problems in the future, prevention of alcohol and other drug abuse must be a top priority.
Sex Under the Influence of Alcohol and Other Drugs
From Denise Witmer,Your Guide to Parenting of Adolescents.
Alcohol and other drug use is linked to risky sexual behavior and poses significant threats to the health of adolescents. Substance abuse may impair adolescents' ability to make judgments about sex and contraception, placing them at increased risk for unplanned pregnancy, sexual assault, or becoming infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD), including HIV/AIDS.
We know the AIDS virus can be transmitted through sharing hypodermic needles. Less is known about the dangerous role of alcohol and other drugs in sexual behavior that may lead to STDs and HIV/AIDS. To compound matters, there is also considerable evidence that alcohol and other drugs weaken the immune system, thereby increasing susceptibility to infection and disease.
Consider the following statistics:
The use of alcohol and other drugs can affect judgment and lead to taking serious sexual risks. There were 18,540 cases of AIDS among 13- to 24-year-olds reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by the end of 1994.
About 75 percent of high school seniors have had sexual intercourse at least once in their lives; about 20 percent have had more than four sexual partners by their senior year.
Studies show that adolescents are less likely to use condoms when having sex after drinking alcohol than when sober. This places them at even higher risk for HIV infection, STDs, and unwanted pregnancy.
A survey of high school students found that 18 percent of females and 39 percent of males say it is acceptable for a boy to force sex if the girl is stoned or drunk.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HIV/AIDS has been the sixth leading cause of death among 15- to 20-year-olds in the United States for over three years. One in five of the new AIDS cases diagnosed is in the 20 to 29 year age group, meaning that HIV transmission occurred during the teen years. Additionally, more than half of new cases of HIV infection in 1994 were related to drug use.
There is still much to be learned about the relationship between alcohol and other drugs and sexual behavior. During the past decade, teens reported higher levels of sexual activity at earlier ages, experienced more unplanned pregnancies, and suffered higher rates of sexually transmitted diseases. To reduce the incidence of these problems in the future, prevention of alcohol and other drug abuse must be a top priority.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
In the world but not of the world
It's painful to be different. Tonight I spent some time with my co-workers for dinner. I was glad to be included but I found it so painfully uncomfortable. Their lives are so different from mine. They are great people but are so lost spiritually. In the eyes of the world they are "normal". I am the weird one. I know where they are because that's where I used to be. It seems like a lifetime ago but it was just ten years that I realized there was more to life than what the world called fun and acceptable. To now see people with the eyes of eternity is so hard when you see others so far from the Lord. The concentration on the here and now is the priority of the world.
I pray that God can use me in my workplace but tonight makes it seem so far fetched. I know the Lord can change anyone's heart. He can take a heart of stone and turn it to a heart of flesh. I pray that these ladies will long for that new heart of flesh.
I pray that God can use me in my workplace but tonight makes it seem so far fetched. I know the Lord can change anyone's heart. He can take a heart of stone and turn it to a heart of flesh. I pray that these ladies will long for that new heart of flesh.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Recovery
I am a divorce survivor of over 15 years. In addition to that I am also an abuse survivor. Both events are not something that I ever want to repeat in my life but I would not want to take away the growth that occurred because of those storms. Because of the pain from that time in my life, I sought the Lord. I didn't know that was who I was seeking, but the road led me to Him.
I was thinking about this tonight because our Care Group from church met and in that group are some people that are in various stages of separation/divorce recovery. At 43 years of age, I am the veteran survivor in the group. It seems like a strange irony in some ways, but I remember the pain that these men and women are going through right now. The tears that they cry are so fresh in my memory. I thank the Lord that He brought me through the last 15 plus years. I thank Him how He used that heartbreak to draw me to His presence. To make me realize eventually that the emptiness I was feeling was only going to be filled by Him.
I thank Him that not only did I receive His grace and forgiveness, but that I was also able to extend that forgiveness (after a few years I might add) to my first husband. Only then was I able to experience true freedom.
I was thinking about this tonight because our Care Group from church met and in that group are some people that are in various stages of separation/divorce recovery. At 43 years of age, I am the veteran survivor in the group. It seems like a strange irony in some ways, but I remember the pain that these men and women are going through right now. The tears that they cry are so fresh in my memory. I thank the Lord that He brought me through the last 15 plus years. I thank Him how He used that heartbreak to draw me to His presence. To make me realize eventually that the emptiness I was feeling was only going to be filled by Him.
I thank Him that not only did I receive His grace and forgiveness, but that I was also able to extend that forgiveness (after a few years I might add) to my first husband. Only then was I able to experience true freedom.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Storms of Life
Last night I watched In Touch with Charles Stanley. I really like listening to Dr. Stanley even though he looks like an old fuddy duddy. His practical teaching based in Biblical Truth is just what I needed to hear last night.
He spoke on God's purpose in the storm.
He said that:
"God does not always want to just do something IN us, but often His ultimate goal is to do something THROUGH us. The deeper the valley, the darker the storm and the more intense the pain, the greater the preparation of your heart to be a blessing to other people."
"When God breaks your heart, He makes you useful; but He also props open the door of your heart. You become very sensitive to people around you who are hurting. You don’t even have to open the door when encounter one who is hurting…it automatically opens and you become a walking valuable vessel and tool in the hand of God."
"The intensity of the storm and the length and depth of the valley can be determined by God based on our rebellion and indifference. But also the depth of brokenness required can be equaled to the degree of usefulness God sees in His purpose for us."
These are truths that I already "know" but I needed to be reminded. I remember in studying the "40 Days of Purpose" that God is more interested in my character than in my comfort.
I need to embrace the pain of the storm as Christ embraced the Cross for me. I know that there are times lately that I have been living on my own strength. Each storm reminds me that my strength is insufficient and that He is my sufficiency in life.
He spoke on God's purpose in the storm.
He said that:
"God does not always want to just do something IN us, but often His ultimate goal is to do something THROUGH us. The deeper the valley, the darker the storm and the more intense the pain, the greater the preparation of your heart to be a blessing to other people."
"When God breaks your heart, He makes you useful; but He also props open the door of your heart. You become very sensitive to people around you who are hurting. You don’t even have to open the door when encounter one who is hurting…it automatically opens and you become a walking valuable vessel and tool in the hand of God."
"The intensity of the storm and the length and depth of the valley can be determined by God based on our rebellion and indifference. But also the depth of brokenness required can be equaled to the degree of usefulness God sees in His purpose for us."
These are truths that I already "know" but I needed to be reminded. I remember in studying the "40 Days of Purpose" that God is more interested in my character than in my comfort.
I need to embrace the pain of the storm as Christ embraced the Cross for me. I know that there are times lately that I have been living on my own strength. Each storm reminds me that my strength is insufficient and that He is my sufficiency in life.
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Crossroads
I haven’t posted in some time due to the busy nature of my life right now. With family responsibilities, working and taking a university course my free time is a priceless commodity. The last couple of weeks I have been sick with a cold and bad cough that turned into a mild pneumonia that took the wind right out of my sails. I went back to work the last couple of days and felt absolutely spent after a relatively light work day. Needless to say, my energy level has been at sub zero. I know I have a paper due next week and I have only started reading the articles for. Add on to that my son who had been febrile for three days with a severe ear infection.
At this particular low period in my life comes the crossroad. It seems like Satan particularly likes to add this stuff in my life when energy levels are low or almost non existent. A thorn that attacked two years ago is back. I thought the wound was pretty much healed. The circumstances were made right for the wound to fester again. A harsh comment here, a temptation there and we are right back to where we were. He is out to attack when our spiritual life is weakened. When someone feels that they can make it without God and without Christian friends, the next step is to get sucked down the proverbial spiral.
I know God is in control and anything that happens is always filtered through His hands, but I still have a feeling of panic in the peace. I have been down this road before and God was faithful in preserving those involved. He has removed the influences that poisoned the pie in the past and I am (almost) confident He will do so again. I also have this feeling of wanting to throw all of my commitments in the trash. I want to forget all about these responsibilities that I have taken on in my life. These "extras" just seem so overwhelming right now and the energy to carry on with them seems absent.
Forgive me if you are reading this and it makes no sense. Only those who are privy to circumstances in the past and present with be able to decipher this cryptic message. I guess if you feel led to pray for this situation, I welcome ALL PRAYERS.
In His Grip
Kim
At this particular low period in my life comes the crossroad. It seems like Satan particularly likes to add this stuff in my life when energy levels are low or almost non existent. A thorn that attacked two years ago is back. I thought the wound was pretty much healed. The circumstances were made right for the wound to fester again. A harsh comment here, a temptation there and we are right back to where we were. He is out to attack when our spiritual life is weakened. When someone feels that they can make it without God and without Christian friends, the next step is to get sucked down the proverbial spiral.
I know God is in control and anything that happens is always filtered through His hands, but I still have a feeling of panic in the peace. I have been down this road before and God was faithful in preserving those involved. He has removed the influences that poisoned the pie in the past and I am (almost) confident He will do so again. I also have this feeling of wanting to throw all of my commitments in the trash. I want to forget all about these responsibilities that I have taken on in my life. These "extras" just seem so overwhelming right now and the energy to carry on with them seems absent.
Forgive me if you are reading this and it makes no sense. Only those who are privy to circumstances in the past and present with be able to decipher this cryptic message. I guess if you feel led to pray for this situation, I welcome ALL PRAYERS.
In His Grip
Kim
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
My All in All
I'm so glad that the Lord didn't lay out all His plans for my life at conversion. Here I am almost 10 years into my Christian walk and when I reflect on the life lessons that He has taken me through I marvel and praise Him for His grace. There are very few "obvious" corrections that He reveals. Most of the time, I have never seen that there was a problem in an area that He has brought my attention to. However when I look back prior to the correcton taking place, it has been a major stumbling block to my life.
The latest behavior that He has spoken to me about is self-control and pride. Practically He is dealing with my sin of overeating or otherwise known as gluttony. It may sound trivial, but it is just as serious as any other addiction. I have essentially turned my back on God and feeding my pride when I ate beyond my needs. I have tortured my body with gaining and losing weight over the years. I have been in a Bible study over the last two months for healing in this area. The weight loss is only a bonus. Learning the put Christ first in ALL THINGS is the real blessing that I have learned. To crucify my pride and practice the fruit of the spirit, self-control IN ALL AREAS!!! That carries over into other areas of my life. I don't need the last word. I don't need to bemoan my present circumstances. I need to thank and praise Him for entrusting me with His treasures. Loving and nurturing my family so they can be secure in my love and to reflect the love of Christ in their lives. The critical spirit that I thought was crucified was still alive in my prideful nature. Thinking I was being "godly" and realising my grumbling I would mumble, were not glorifiying to God and were edifying to my family. It was essentially throughing my hand up in the face of Him, telling Him my way was better. What nerve!!!!!
I'm so thankful that when I fall, I can approach His throne and repent of my sins and bask in His saving grace. This song below comes to my mind today.
Once Again
Words and music by Matt Redman
Jesus Christ, I think upon Your sacrifice
You became nothing, poured out to death
Many times I've wondered at Your gift of life
And I'm in that place once again
I'm in that place once again
And once again I look upon the cross where You died
I'm humbled by Your mercy and I'm broken inside
Once again I thank You
Once again I pour out my life
Now You are exalted to the highest place
King of the heavens, where one day I'll bow
But for now, I marvel at Your saving grace
And I'm full of praise once again
I'm full of praise once again
Thank You for the cross
Thank You for the cross
Thank You for the cross, my Friend
The latest behavior that He has spoken to me about is self-control and pride. Practically He is dealing with my sin of overeating or otherwise known as gluttony. It may sound trivial, but it is just as serious as any other addiction. I have essentially turned my back on God and feeding my pride when I ate beyond my needs. I have tortured my body with gaining and losing weight over the years. I have been in a Bible study over the last two months for healing in this area. The weight loss is only a bonus. Learning the put Christ first in ALL THINGS is the real blessing that I have learned. To crucify my pride and practice the fruit of the spirit, self-control IN ALL AREAS!!! That carries over into other areas of my life. I don't need the last word. I don't need to bemoan my present circumstances. I need to thank and praise Him for entrusting me with His treasures. Loving and nurturing my family so they can be secure in my love and to reflect the love of Christ in their lives. The critical spirit that I thought was crucified was still alive in my prideful nature. Thinking I was being "godly" and realising my grumbling I would mumble, were not glorifiying to God and were edifying to my family. It was essentially throughing my hand up in the face of Him, telling Him my way was better. What nerve!!!!!
I'm so thankful that when I fall, I can approach His throne and repent of my sins and bask in His saving grace. This song below comes to my mind today.
Once Again
Words and music by Matt Redman
Jesus Christ, I think upon Your sacrifice
You became nothing, poured out to death
Many times I've wondered at Your gift of life
And I'm in that place once again
I'm in that place once again
And once again I look upon the cross where You died
I'm humbled by Your mercy and I'm broken inside
Once again I thank You
Once again I pour out my life
Now You are exalted to the highest place
King of the heavens, where one day I'll bow
But for now, I marvel at Your saving grace
And I'm full of praise once again
I'm full of praise once again
Thank You for the cross
Thank You for the cross
Thank You for the cross, my Friend
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Journey to Narnia
Today my son and I went to see the movie, The Chronicles of Narnia. It was everything and more than I had expected. I must confess that I have not read the Narnia series but my son is in the process of reading the Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe and I have followed many of the commentary shows on it. Disney has captured the core of the Christian alagorical themes that C.S. Lewis worked so hard to convey. The Gospel is presented beautifully and innocently. The battle of good verses evil that is taking place daily in the spirit rhelm, is visually portrayed in a land where it is always winter and never Christmas.
My son said it all at the beginning of the movie when Lucy first ventured through the wardrobe into Narnia, "It looks just like I imagined it would". Thank you Disney creators for staying true the imagination of a child, the purpose of Lewis and the recognition that there is a Christian audience out there.
My son said it all at the beginning of the movie when Lucy first ventured through the wardrobe into Narnia, "It looks just like I imagined it would". Thank you Disney creators for staying true the imagination of a child, the purpose of Lewis and the recognition that there is a Christian audience out there.
The First Communion
No, I'm not talking about a Roman Catholic rite of passage, but of my eight-year-old son taking another step in his spiritual walk. Because my son is in the third grade, he no longer goes to junior church during our regular worship service. Some days it is a challenge to keep him occupied during the service and other days it is more of a challenge to keep him and his little friends quiet. At any rate, by the time the pastor is starting to share the message, he is either bored to tears or he is in a place where he will listen to the message. Often I will interject with an object lesson related to the message.
We have discussed participation in communion in the past and what it means, but he has not elected to take part in the elements. Today was different though. When I asked him if he was ready to take communion, he said that he was.
This little boy doesn't do anything without giving it alot of thought. This was the case when he accepted Christ. I had shared with him about invited Jesus into his heart and what it meant to be a Christian. I would let him know that when he was ready to do that, I would pray with him. His response was usually, "No, I'm not ready yet". But one day I brought up the topic again, his response was, "I'm ready now." My mother has often said that he is an old soul. He is wise spiritually beyond chronological years.
I was again very proud of him today as he made that step forward in his spiritual walk. I hope God is okay with that kind of pride.
We have discussed participation in communion in the past and what it means, but he has not elected to take part in the elements. Today was different though. When I asked him if he was ready to take communion, he said that he was.
This little boy doesn't do anything without giving it alot of thought. This was the case when he accepted Christ. I had shared with him about invited Jesus into his heart and what it meant to be a Christian. I would let him know that when he was ready to do that, I would pray with him. His response was usually, "No, I'm not ready yet". But one day I brought up the topic again, his response was, "I'm ready now." My mother has often said that he is an old soul. He is wise spiritually beyond chronological years.
I was again very proud of him today as he made that step forward in his spiritual walk. I hope God is okay with that kind of pride.
Friday, January 06, 2006
ER's Liberal Agenda
Once again my favorite show, E.R. has caused me to wonder why I continue to watch it as a Christian. I boycotted the show a few years ago when Carrie Weaver came out as a lesbian and had an open relationship on the show. It just went way too far in my books.
Last's nights show had one story line that focused on two separate crisis pregnancies. Abby announced on the previous show to Luka that she was pregnant with his child. On last night's show she wrestled with the thought of whether or not she wanted to continue with the pregnancy. Luka, of course wanted to have the baby but recognized that it was her decision. While I was happy enough that he stated his desire for the pregnancy to continue, I do believe that the baby's life should be a joint decision as both of them were responsible for creating that life in the premarital relationship.
The second part of this story line concerned a 15-year-old girl who came in to the E.R. with abdominal pains. This girl was found to be pregnant. She was a patient of Neela with Luka as the attending. Her parents were then informed and it was obvious that they were Christians. However tragic and unexpected this pregancy was, they believed that God wanted this child to be born and they stated their belief in the sanctity of life. Neela didn't seem to show any respect for the parent's beliefs but felt that the girl did not want this pregancy to continue. The teen was in some distress and stated that she wished it hadn't happened. It was found that the baby was conceived after the teen got drunk at a party and passed out. She awakened to find that she had been taken advantage of.
After being confronted by Neela that he was biased because he was Catholic, Luka then went to counsel the teen and gave her the option of a laminar insert that would mimic a miscarriage. When she asked him if it was a sin, his reply was, "This is medicine's way of allowing God to change His mind". I thought I would throw up. Then she began to quote Jeremiah Chapter 1, which Luka completed for her. She then said to him, "You are a Christian" and he said, "Yes". The second time I almost threw up. This is the character that, yes, is portrayed as being Roman Catholic from Bosnia but has slept with at least a dozen women on the show. He certainly is a sensitive and handsome doctor but I would never call him a Christian. Being a nurse, I do not know any Christian doctor that would ever participate in an abortion.
This episode, in my eyes gave the green light to pregnant teens to abort their babies no matter what their parents think. It's ok to deceive your parents when it is your body, right? Especially when you get guidance from a Christian doctor.
The Abby part of the story line, turned out better. She decided that she wanted to keep the baby and didn't have an abortion. So Luka assisted in the death of one child to keep another I guess. I can't wait to see what the prolife publications will comment on this episode.
Last's nights show had one story line that focused on two separate crisis pregnancies. Abby announced on the previous show to Luka that she was pregnant with his child. On last night's show she wrestled with the thought of whether or not she wanted to continue with the pregnancy. Luka, of course wanted to have the baby but recognized that it was her decision. While I was happy enough that he stated his desire for the pregnancy to continue, I do believe that the baby's life should be a joint decision as both of them were responsible for creating that life in the premarital relationship.
The second part of this story line concerned a 15-year-old girl who came in to the E.R. with abdominal pains. This girl was found to be pregnant. She was a patient of Neela with Luka as the attending. Her parents were then informed and it was obvious that they were Christians. However tragic and unexpected this pregancy was, they believed that God wanted this child to be born and they stated their belief in the sanctity of life. Neela didn't seem to show any respect for the parent's beliefs but felt that the girl did not want this pregancy to continue. The teen was in some distress and stated that she wished it hadn't happened. It was found that the baby was conceived after the teen got drunk at a party and passed out. She awakened to find that she had been taken advantage of.
After being confronted by Neela that he was biased because he was Catholic, Luka then went to counsel the teen and gave her the option of a laminar insert that would mimic a miscarriage. When she asked him if it was a sin, his reply was, "This is medicine's way of allowing God to change His mind". I thought I would throw up. Then she began to quote Jeremiah Chapter 1, which Luka completed for her. She then said to him, "You are a Christian" and he said, "Yes". The second time I almost threw up. This is the character that, yes, is portrayed as being Roman Catholic from Bosnia but has slept with at least a dozen women on the show. He certainly is a sensitive and handsome doctor but I would never call him a Christian. Being a nurse, I do not know any Christian doctor that would ever participate in an abortion.
This episode, in my eyes gave the green light to pregnant teens to abort their babies no matter what their parents think. It's ok to deceive your parents when it is your body, right? Especially when you get guidance from a Christian doctor.
The Abby part of the story line, turned out better. She decided that she wanted to keep the baby and didn't have an abortion. So Luka assisted in the death of one child to keep another I guess. I can't wait to see what the prolife publications will comment on this episode.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
New Year's Intentions
The last couple of days I have been sick with some sort of flu bug so it has given me time for reflection (and sleep). The "in" way to state what you want to do in the New Year is called New Year's Intents. I guess intentions are different from resolutions because intent gives you the grace if you fail and resolution is more defing. I'm not sure that I like either term. We can sometimes have the best of intentions but fail at the result. We also know the saying "The road to (you know where) is paved with good intentions". With intentions we never seem to feel we need to "get around to it". Resolutions, on the other hand, are more defining but there again, we set ourselves up for failure. How often do you hear of someone making New Year's Resolutions, only to break them within days of January 1.
I guess there are things that I think about improving all of the time. Since being a child of the King, I am supposed to be conforming into His image day by day. God awakens me to the need for change when I'm most likely to receive. I love and look forward to these little awakenings that He reveals to me. It is my special time out with the Lord in some respects. These times of revelation are precious to us both.
I guess there are things that I think about improving all of the time. Since being a child of the King, I am supposed to be conforming into His image day by day. God awakens me to the need for change when I'm most likely to receive. I love and look forward to these little awakenings that He reveals to me. It is my special time out with the Lord in some respects. These times of revelation are precious to us both.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)