Touched by your response

Dearest friends,
Thank you for allowing me to share from the deepest part of my heart yesterday. New friends, I used to be a criminal prosecutor doing what I could to help domestic violence victims (and their abusers) break free from that cycle. As the lady in yesterday's post shows, though, not all the women were able to see beyond their circumstances. I couldn't convince this one that filing charges could be the beginning of a new life for her. She felt that she deserved her beatings.

Can you imagine being trapped by your own mind like that?

Yet we all do it, to one degree or another. Some of us work 60 hours or more each week, convinced that "just a few more hours" will make the difference and get us the promotion or the prestige we crave. Some of us spend every last penny -- and even pennies we don't have -- on designer clothes. Outwardly, we look great. Inside, we're worrying ourselves to death over bills. I bet we all know at least one someone who has lost their McMansion in this economy. We wear the disguise of prosperity, though our finances are a wreck.... and our lives are quickly following.

Some of us pursue love in all the wrong ways, jumping from one relationship to the next, certain that "this time" we will have that fairy tale life we dream of. We don't stop chasing love long enough to realize that we don't really accept who we are. How could someone else fill the holes we have knocked in our own hearts?

Some chase looks, appearances and fitness like a drug.

We all have our weakness. The difference, for some, is that we understand weakness like Paul did. In 2 Corinthians 12:10 he wrote, "...for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."We understand that when we face hardship, God wants to battle with us. For us.

We are all weak. With Christ, we become strong.

Friends, this year -- as we all focus on the fresh start before us -- let's make a difference. How about:

• becoming the Samaritan for a homeless person? Instead of averting our eyes, let's bring them dinner (or if they hang out on a corner near a restaurant, invite them to join you for dinner. Your treat.)
• investing in the future? Most every homeless person, abuse victim and drunk has a family somewhere. They may have lost contact years ago... and the child is left with a hole in their heart. We can volunteer at Big Brothers/Big Sisters or other community agencies, read with kids, become a mentor... whatever. Let's start filling rejected hearts with love and value.
• invest in the kingdom? What does your church do? Where is your church's mission field? Get involved. Put your resources, your time, your prayer and your heart into reaching out to others.

I truly believe that if the church stood as one, we could eliminate a lot of the tragedy in our cities, our nation and this world. God is hope... but if they never get a chance to learn about him, they remain hopeless. 

With prayers for a nation filled with real love!

"I forgot to take the dog out."

Prosecutor's Office, 1993

The receptionist handed me the complaint form, her eyes reflected a knowing sadness. I scanned the form for the description of the incident: "I forgot to take the dog out and he hit me in the head." Processing that information quickly, I was certain I wouldn't be able to help, without a visible, documented injury there'd be insufficient evidence to "prove" abuse in the criminal courtroom.

Wearily, I opened the lobby door, preparing for the expected argument, one I'd had so many times before: "But he hit me." My reply, "I understand and I believe you, but I need to be able to prove that."

I called out her name and watched as a woman in the far corner stood up. Scanning her face, I saw no bruises, no black eye or swollen jaw. These cases were always the toughest. As she approached, I finally really saw: her head was covered with dozens and dozens of red holes. She had puncture wounds on every inch of her scalp. I wanted to throw up. I should have prayed.

She settled in the chair across from my desk. I asked the easy questions first: confirming name and address, asking how long she and "he" had lived together. I avoided eye contact, not trusting my face to hide my shock at her appearance. Finally, I asked her what happened. She replied simply, "I forgot to take the dog out and he hit me in the head." With some prodding, she filled in the details. She got home from work, and it was raining. She should have taken the dog out right away, but couldn't find an umbrella. The dog peed and pooped on the floor. Before she could clean the mess, "he" got home. He berated her for being so mean to the dog and proceeded to "teach her" how it feels to be a dog. He used the steel bristled grill brush and beat her in the head. The whole time he screamed at her never to treat a dog like that again.

We reviewed her statement to make sure I had recorded everything accurately. Then I asked if she was ready to press charges. Shocked, she screamed at me, "NO. I deserved it." She simply wanted me to ask him not to use the grill brush the next time, but to use a belt or stick instead. Nothing I said could change her mind. I never saw her again. To this day, I pray for her.

Today

For the most part, I blog about the joy that comes to us when we have a relationship with Jesus. Most of you -- my readers and friends -- know that joy, at least on some level. You know that God loves you. You know that you are special. Even when we, our own worst critics, berate ourselves for bad choices, we know that Jesus is our redeemer.

I blog about reaching out and making a difference, through volunteering at shelters and food banks, by giving offerings and blessing others. I challenge you -- and myself -- to offer a smile to the grocery store clerk, give a bigger tip at the restaurant, and acknowledge the homeless man. Mommies, I share your struggles to show love when you want to scream at the kids, to provide healthy meals and to teach your kids to love Jesus.

Today...

I want to challenge you to go further. You see, the real world is a dark, mean, hateful place. The real world is filled with women like the one I met at the prosecutor's office. The real world iincludes people whose only purpose is to hurt others, not just in domestic violence, but by rape, murder, drunkenness, DUI, and emotional abuse. I could go on.

We can ignore the pain, refusing to watch the news or read the paper. We can turn our eyes away from the homeless man, pretending that he doesn't really suffer. We can rationalize that our kids' schools are happy places and that all the children have wonderful homes like ours. But we delude ourselves.

Jesus

Jesus came for them. Yes, He came for us too... but if we accept his love and refuse to reach out, who will love them? If we hold him close and pretend they don't exist, how will he reach them? If we keep Jesus for ourselves, are we any better than the abuser? the drunk? the murderer?

Jesus said, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices -- mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law -- justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter without neglecting the former." (Matthew 23:23)

Friends, where is justice, mercy and faithfulness? Where is our love? What should we do?

Jesus with Skin On

Hey friends,

Ellie, 6, serving at With Love from Jesus

Have you ever heard that phrase, "Being Jesus with skin on?" It's a cute way to say "live out" Jesus' command to love God and love others. That's my challenge to you! These last two weeks before Christmas, won't you show your love for Jesus by loving others the way He would?

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Don't complain about the guy holding up the "will work for food" sign. Instead, carry granola bars in your car glovebox to share. 
• Adopt a family! Not sure where to begin? Ask your church secretary. No doubt your church has received many calls from desperate families this Christmas. Why not be Jesus (or Secret Santa) to a family? An easy shopping guide: buy each child a new shirt (right size/favorite color) and a special wish item, and buy mom and dad a bag of non-perishable groceries. It costs only $100 to radically bless a family of 6 this way! :)
• Listen! Many people, especially women, struggle emotionally at Christmas. They know it should be the happiest time of the year, but it's not. Carrying past hurts or dealing with the winter blues, many women struggle to survive the Christmas season. Not you? Offer her a hug and a prayer -- for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
• Remember! Most of us know someone who lost a dear loved one during the year. Take a moment and write a card letting them know that you haven't forgotten. Pray for them, asking God to fill their heart with memories to cherish and comfort this Christmas. Don't forget their loved one or their pain. They haven't forgotten -- and need to know it's okay to be a little sad.
• Have a friend who's been out of work for a while? Offer to pay their December electric bill (or gas or water). If you have a job, you're already blessed! Pass it on.

Love others like Jesus loves. Be Jesus with skin on. Isn't that what Christmas is all about?

Merry Christmas!

Time: a generous gift

When my world was falling apart, a dear man invested his time and heart in our family. He offered my husband encouragement and a listening ear. He challenged me to stop wallowing in my pit and turn my eyes to Jesus. His love for our family was the lifeline to Jesus that we needed... and I've never been the same since. (He tends to downplay the impact he made -- he's humble like that -- but I wouldn't be where I am without the time he invested in us.)

Time!

When we invest in others, we offer them the gift of time. We make a choice to give up something we can never get back so that someone else's life might improve. And yet, there is no greater feeling than giving to another. Our hearts fill with joy. How is that possible?

Galatians 5 13-23 says, "You... were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' ... So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. The acts of the flesh are obvious:... selfish ambition... and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."

Did you gloss over God's word just now? If you did, please go back and read it again.

Selfishness looks at time as mine. I don't have time to listen to her problems. I don't have time to cook them a meal. I don't have time to do... whatever.

Love looks at time as a gift. Yes, I'll meet you for coffee and prayer. Sure, I'll cook a meal -- when do they need it? Yes, I'll pick up those school supplies for needy kids.

A friend of mine told me about a little boy who wiggled his way into his heart. This little boy lived with his dad -- mom ran away. Then dad was murdered. Little boy lives with grandma, who works two jobs to provide for him. This man saw an opportunity to make a difference. He meets with the boy once a week, spending six hours with him, sometimes more. Just a friend, investing in a young man -- and his grandma. He shared that some days the little boy wears him out -- he's tempted to take him home early. Then he remembers that grandma gets one six hour break each week. He grins. He listens. He invests... for six hours. Sometimes more. Each week.

That man has a daughter. She recently shared with him that she realizes the value of a loving father. She sees the difference he makes in a little boy's life. And it fills her heart too.

Here's the amazing truth about time. When we give it, in love, our hearts grow full. The love spills over and impacts the world beyond. When we hoard it, selfishly, our hearts grow cold. Nothing spills over. No one is changed.

Time is our most precious gift. It's the cost we "pay" for loving. But, the dividend is immeasurable.

How will you use your time today?

iPhone 4 S

Watching the morning news while I sipped my dearly loved coffee, I cracked up at the iPhone hubbub! Apparently, iPhone fans have been anticipating the release of the iPhone 5. They're disappointed that yesterday's unveiling is "merely" an improved iPhone 4.

Really?

My smartphone, the "lowly" iPhone 3 -- no S -- has served me well these past 2.5 years. It handles all my calls and voicemail, texting, Facebook and twitter needs. I'll admit, the pictures aren't all that great... and sometimes it freezes up. But not too often. And... those freeze ups teach me patience.

Clearly, I lack techie passion!

Empowering those in debt to reduce their personal debt and live within their means.
Replenishing the stock of homeless shelters and food pantries so that homeless families can eat.
Tutoring and mentoring our nation's kids so that they're equipped for adulthood.

These are important issues.

Yet, the iPhone 4g S (really -- what do all those little letters mean?) takes top billing. Actually, the whiners who aren't happy enough with this technological wonder take top billing.... Really?

Let's look at what's important. Coffee.... Nah, just kidding. People. That's what matters. Not phones. Not selfish greed.

Learn more about volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club: http://www.bgcma.org/volunteer

Friends, do something today that MAKES A DIFFERENCE!!! Bless a homeless man with free lunch. Buy a bag of non-perishables -- a GIANT BAG -- and bless a food pantry. Register with your school district to become a volunteer -- and read with an ESL (English as a second language) student, or tutor a little guy in math, or help the young kid with ADHD learn how to straighten out his desk. Whatever you're good at, some kid in your local school needs to learn! Not available during school hours? How about volunteering at your local boys and girls club? Or your church after-school recreation program? Or the YMCA?

Learn more about volunteering at the "Y": http://www.ymca.net/volunteer/

Let's do something that matters.... That's newsworthy!

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness! No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”

Matthew 6:19-24

Stepping Up!

Did you know that single parent homes accounted for 34% of all homes in the United States in 2009? Or that another 5% of homes included kids living with neither parent? (source) That's about 40% of families -- Two in every five homes!

My kids are blessed. Mom and dad live here, with them, together. At bedtime, they get two good-night kisses. They get two prayers. They get double hugs. When I'm having a bad day, I have back-up -- my kids don't have to deal with just me. Dad can calm the storms. (And I do the same for him once every three years on his bad day.) I can't imagine raising them without him.

A whole lot of families in this country don't have that same opportunity: Ready or not, they're raising kids the "hard way." Single moms and dads push through to "git 'r done." Grand-parents, aunts, uncles, siblings and foster parents stand in the gap, addressing hurts and pains, loving and nurturing the best they can.

Who's there to help? Sure, we have over-worked agencies and programs: Big Brother, YMCA, social workers and more do their best, but there's not enough government money meet the needs. There aren't enough volunteers to help everyone. School teachers give till their hearts break, called on to be counselor and conscience, not just teacher anymore. They can't do it all.

Church -- it's our job. "Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow." (Isaiah 1:17) Plain English: Do right. Seek justice. Encourage. Defend. Plead for. Calls to action directed to the church -- God's people.

Yet we drive to church Sunday morning, dressed to impress. We sit in the pew, nodding our agreement with the pastor's wise words. We drop a token offering in the plate. We leave -- thanking the pastor and praising his efforts. We go home.

Just add one more thing to Sunday morning: Serve. One hour each week. Teaching kids that God loves them. Reminding them that God is there even though it's tough at home sometimes. Encouraging them to make wise decisions that will last a lifetime if they just learn them now. A hug. A tear, wiped away gently. A prayer offered from an innocent heart. Serve. Care. Be God's hands and feet.

Just a couple hours each week -- leading a Bible study group for women who parent alone. Encouraging them to discover God's truth: they are important. They are not forgotten. They can -- in Christ's strength -- do all things, even parent "alone." Offer to provide childcare for these groups. Pay for someone's childcare so she can attend a group. Serve. Love. Be God's hands and feet.

Just a couple hours each week -- be a Godly example to the fatherless. Men, these kids need you! Boys need to know what it looks like to be responsible, to listen well, to stand firm and not run away. Girls need to know that Godly men are humble, honest, kind and sincere. Who will model fatherhood to these future fathers? Who can show a girl what a "good husband" might be for her one day? Serve. Be an example. Be God's hands and feet.

Our call as Christians is to know God and make him known. (See Matthew 5:13-14 for Jesus' explanation)

Will you do it? Will you be one who does right, seeks justice, encourages, defends, pleads for? Or are you content to let a generation fall apart? What do you think God would like you to do?

Choose Change

Today, I'm guest posting over at Encouragement Cafe. To visit there, click here. But first...

When we moved to North Carolina, I spiraled into the deepest depression I'd ever known. Though I had given up on myself, my husband never gave up on me. He pursued God on both our behalfs. One Sunday, I begged him not to go to church, just to stay home. With me. He stayed. The next week, I went.

The pastor, known since that day as "my" pastor, explained that the church is hope for the hopeless. He challenged them to love with the hands and feet of Jesus. The sweet people of that church, known since that day as "my" church, loved me exactly like that. They reached out.

I reached back.

They dropped a lifeline into my pit.

I grabbed hold and pulled up.

Love's redemption. The broken person comes into the church, gets loved on... and then...

Some grow. Like me. We grab hold of the rope. We choose change. Lives transformed by the love of God.

Some don't grow. The rope hangs down. But the hopeless sit at the bottom of the pit, refusing to grab it. Refusing to choose change. Eventually, they're left in a pit filled with ropes dropped as people tire of holding them out.

That hopeless person asks: "Why am I still here?" "Why am I all alone?" "Why isn't the church helping me?" She never realizes that someone was there -- offering help. Offering hope. She never realizes that she didn't choose change... or that the helpers gave up. Exhausted.

Psalm 18:29 says, "With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall." With help. With God. That's how it works. Not them helping me, but all of us working together. Then, I -- hopeless no more -- can scale a wall.

If you feel like you're all alone, won't you grab hold? Take that rope. Choose change.

• Serve others by joining a ministry team.
• Connect with others through small groups.
• Volunteer at the homeless shelter and give your time to those less fortunate than you.
• Read the Bible (James is a great place to start).
• Pray -- Praise -- Pray.
• Count your blessings, one by one. 

Grab a rope. Get out! It's up to you. Will you choose change?

1 Timothy 4:12 (Part One)

Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young.

Be an example to all believers in what you say,

in the way you live, in your love, your faith and your purity.

1 Timothy 4:12

Nathan, my 17 year old son, had the incredible opportunity to share the large group teaching at our kids’ church camp this week. He spoke eight times, each lesson better than the one before. My heart burst with pride watching him.

It wasn’t really the message he shared that spoke to my heart -- though he did a great job teaching. Behind the scenes is where he really grabbed me. What the camp kids don’t know is that Nathan prepared for two months to do this. We spoke often about how to handle special situations. “Mom, if they get restless, can I do ?” Or, "Mom, is it okay if I explain this idea this way...?"

The kids don’t know how he wrestled in his own walk with the “logic of Jesus.” He went to God -- struggling to “understand” what can only be received in faith: the miracle of Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection. He didn’t back down from the tough stuff, but kept going back to God, back to the Word, and back to leaders he trusts -- asking for their input. But the kids don’t know his battle: they just heard him speak confidently about miraculous faith!

The kids don’t know that after each message he shared he asked, “How did I do?” (Great!!!!) “What could I do better?” Every single time. He wanted to give them the very best -- and each suggestion I offered, he used. He grew as a leader this week, because he chose to serve humbly, respectfully and intentionally. His heart was 100% committed to serving those kids.

I'm leaving for a speaker's conference next Thursday -- to further develop my speaking skills. Hopefully, I'll be as humbly receptive to other peoples' input as Nathan. He sure touched my heart!

Believe it or not, Nathan's choices after camp were even more amazing! Tune in tomorrow to find out what he did! May his example challenge you to look higher and serve with more love than you ever have before.

God bless,

A Princess Birthday Tea Party

We celebrated Ellie's birthday a couple weeks ago. The party was supposed to go one way, with my wonderful men (hubby and sons) serving a sweet dinner tea party for the girls. Then, the guys fell -- one by one -- to a horrible little sickness. Ben started it all the day before the party -- thankfully, just a 12 hour affair. Party day, he cleaned and disinfected the whole house as texts came from his brother and dad that they, too, were sick. Hubby and son were banished to their beds for the day while I took on Rob's role of chief baker. And decorated the house, too!

YAY for me!!! The cupcakes turned out great. Pink as could be. And my buttercream, though made with much more mess than Rob's, was delicious. All in all, a huge success.

The girls arrived, one by one, in their best party dresses with their favorite dolls dressed up too. They served tea to their dolls at the coffee table.

I served a "gourmet" dinner of heart shaped peanut butter sandwiches, apple straws and fruit. The sweetest thing happened... They ALL wanted to pray the blessing for dinner. So, we had three special prayers for dinner and Ellie before dinner. Then two more before cupcakes. She's definitely chosen great friends!

After dinner, I thought the girls would play with their dolls more... but alas, you can dress a girl in all the bows in the world, and she's still going to want to play "puppies and bears!" Yes, they ran, screamed and hollered all over the family room. One was the bear, one was the mommy dog, and the other four were puppies. Hilarious!











When all was said and done, Ellie's celebration was perfectly Ellie: a mix of sweet and tomboy! I'm bummed that her dad missed out on it (though he still talks about the noise), but at least it got done! :)

Happy birthday, Princess Ellie. We love you!

Surviving Rush Hour

photo © 2009 versageek | more info (via: Wylio)

Last week, I had the "privilege" of driving in morning and afternoon rush hour to cart Nathan to and from piano camp. I was supposed to take Ben to golf camp in the city -- same week to save myself some driving -- but he got sick. Instead, I'm driving him this week. (Thankful that the NCSU Golf School was willing to change his camp without added cost. Not thankful that I'm driving in rush hour traffic again.) Yep, another week of back and forth driving to the city. During rush hour.

God can teach a lot to a captive audience in such a situation. He spoke clearly last week, "Stay in your lane, Karen. Just stay in your lane."

Have you noticed how some people zig this way and zag that way, trying to get ahead? I'm talking about drivers here -- they switch lanes non-stop. The "lucky" ones move ahead three or four cars, but that's about it. They just think they're going somewhere. I must admit that I enjoy watching these guys get busted for speeding! I'm not very nice.

Sane drivers stay in their lane. Sometimes they move a little faster. Sometimes they slow down. They move steadily to their destination. With a lot less stress! I learned this lesson quickly -- and spared myself a lot of stress and tension.

That's when God spoke in that sweet whisper, "Stay in your lane. It's true for life, my sweet child." You see, I want to rush ahead. For years, I've patiently (okay, not so patiently) supported my husband, raised my kids and served God in my church. I want to start my life now. Yep, now would be good.

Others pass me by -- in the fast lane. Why not me?

Why not me? Wrong question!

Instead, I should be asking, "What else, God?" What else can I learn? What else do you want me to understand? What else should I do, God, while I wait? 

God's got a good and pleasing plan for my life. I know it's true! His word says, "I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11). Just like a driver who stays sane in rush hour, I need to stay in my lane and focus on the goal -- God's plan. His vision. His destination. 

It's true in rush hour. It's true in life.

Praying for a Military Hero

Dear friends,
Please join me today in praying for the family of Mark Bradley, a fallen soldier whose funeral is today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_4TRFGppjU&feature=share

Father God,

Please be with Samantha, Mark's wife, and all of Mark's family and friends as they say "good-bye." Please fill them with your peace. May Your Comfort fill the empty places in their hearts. God, help them to know that their sacrifice -- Mark's and theirs -- is appreciated. We will not forget their sacrifice for our freedom.

In your Son's name,

Amen

Psalm 37:3

Trust in the LORD and do good. 
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.

Psalm 37:3

As I prepare to attend my first She Speaks conference, I wonder if I'm finally on my way to my destiny? My heart longs to share God's truth with other women. I hope and pray God will use my life experience to encourage others. You can overcome depression. You can break the chains. You can become more than you ever thought you would be... Just trust in Him. Let go of you. Take the plunge.

I'm 45 and still trying to figure it out. It's not always easy to wait. Or wonder.

My son is seventeen. One short year from now, he'll be packing bags and boxes, preparing for that big step into college. He shares my questions. What's the plan, Mom? Do you think I'd do well with this? What did you think I would become (when I was seven)? Does it help to hear that I'm still not sure what I want to be when I grow up? There's just so much to choose -- so many things to do.

My prayer today, Nathan, is that you will trust God in the journey. Whether you choose one career like Daddy or my more circuitous path, I pray you will simply TRUST. Take the next step confidently. Don't look too far down the road. And while you're trusting, do good. Make a difference. Encourage others. Share your love of God. Rejoice in the journey. Let God lead you wherever He wants you to go and know. This is God's plan for you. In His Name I pray. Amen

Mexico Update -- Please Pray!!!

My dad recently returned from his first international missions trip to Mexico. I'm so proud of him! Praise God for allowing him the opportunity to serve and minister to some of the world's most troubled people.


My dad made it home, safe and sound. He got home a little more than a week ago, flying in on Saturday, the day of the North Carolina tornadoes. When I finally got to talk to him, he excitedly shared the fun details of his flights around the storms. So different from the quiet man I remember growing up. I'm just glad he made it home, safe and in good spirits!

They ministered in two areas. In Los Nogales the church is alive and thriving. He shared the passion the people have and how families attend church services and activities together. He described it as vibrant. Listening to him, I couldn't help get excited for God's work being done in that city.

In stark contrast, he shared that the people of Juarez, Mexico -- just across the border from El Paso, Texas -- are suffering. I researched Juarez online. It's called the murder capital of the world. OF THE WORLD! It's not that far away. Mexico. More dangerous than Iraq. Or Libya. Really?

Many of the men are involved in the drug trade. Moms are raising a generation of children without fathers. He shared that one lady is boldly leading Bible studies in her home while her husband is in prison for his involvement in drug trafficking. Other women are developing Christian programs for the children, hoping to give kids hope and a choice for a better future. These ladies want to offer their children, especially their sons, a choice to live for something worthwhile. They're standing up against the drug trade. I struggle to comprehend all this is going on "next door."

Will you join me today in prayer for this troubled region? Will you keep these brave women who are trusting God to change their families' futures in your prayers. With God, all things are possible.

Thank you.

Next Gen Prayers

Bloggy friends,
It's Revolution Weekend at our church, a special in-town weekend retreat for our 7th-12th graders. Would you join me in prayer for our students? Specifically, pray for a deeper relationship with Jesus, closer bonds with one another, safety as they serve in the community. Pray for all us grown ups too -- that we can keep up! :)

The weekend launches with a Toby Mac concert, live at our church. Even as I write that I still can't believe Toby Mac will be here! My son attended a music camp a few years ago and Toby shared that music sung for self doesn't glorify God. A musician's purpose is always to draw people closer to God -- sing for God. Play for God. Not for yourself. That's his message (paraphrased). It's all about Jesus.

Saturday our kids will have the chance to live that message out. They will be scrubbing down a local Boys and Girls club. Literally. Cleaning out every closet, cupboard, shelf and locker. It's in an area of our county where more than 90% of the kids receive free or reduced lunches. The students will really be giving some hands-on love to kids they may never meet. Our high school boys will be working at our local men's shelter. This group of homeless people is so often overlooked. How humbling to serve these men. May it touch their hearts.

There's lots of fun, special messages, small group time and food involved too. After all, teens and food go together like the beach and flip flops.

Thank you for your prayers!

More Blessed to Give than to Receive

Have you heard the story of the "widow's mite?" It's one of my favorite Bible stories of all time. This lady, so poor and with no husband to support her, gave Jesus everything she had. Everything!

Even in our poor economic situation, most of us will spend more money on ourselves and our family than others who have great need. What if we did something about it? Every single one of us? What if we gave just one gift (not the junk from the attic that hasn't been cool in 20 years), but one sincere gift to bless someone this year? How about donating a new coat to the homeless shelter? Or buying a bag of non-perishable food for the local food pantry or other shelters?

**A news story in our area (Raleigh, NC) explained that the homeless need thermal underwear, socks, gloves and hats more than anything else. They benefit most from layering.**

What if we went beyond giving stuff? What if we give our time, our heart, our hope instead? It's not too late to help! What would that look like?

My brother and his family are visiting next weekend. Together, we agreed to give our time to a local agency instead of exchanging Christmas gifts among the kids. The kids are in on it too! My sons volunteered at this agency last year. They agree that working side by side with the family will be even better!

Who can you serve this Christmas season? Who can you bless and encourage?

Let's make a difference! Shop for a purpose. Serve with a purpose. Love others, always!

Happy birthday, Jesus!

Colossians 3:23

Whatever you do...

In Birmingham a couple weeks ago, Nathan and I went to church before catching our flight home. Between church and airport check-in, we had just enough time to sneak in a real breakfast. We couldn't linger over a hot cup of coffee, but we did have time for something more than a fast-food rubber egg sandwich! We headed to an Ihop near the airport. The host seated us immediately (so this is how parties of two get in and out so quickly while families of five wait forever). She handed us our menus and told us the server would be right with us.

We waited.

Our server, after several minutes, stopped by to let us know she'd be right with us. I'm fairly certain I didn't offer a "take-your-time-sweetie-we're-just-happy-as-clams-waiting" kind of look... though, I don't think I gave her the "oh-are-you-gonna-get-a-piece-of-my-mind" evil eye either. She didn't come back. More time passed and Kris, who was not our server, appeared at our table.

"Can I get you something to drink?" he asked politely. Sure. We ordered our drinks. He brought them quickly, with extra lemon, and told us our server would be right with us.

He moved on, checking with a customer at one table. He stopped at another table, not his, on the way to the kitchen and bussed it, removing a stack of dishes with swift efficiency. Moments later, he came out the other kitchen door, served a family in another area and passed through the restaurant again, bussing tables, refilling drinks, all over the place. Kris moved a mile a minute, but never seemed rushed.

I checked the time and told my son, "Sixty seconds. If no one takes our order, we have to go. We won't have time to eat." Our server appeared and said, "I'll be right with you." She walked off. Again.

Work at it with all your heart...

I checked the time again. To be honest, I studied it, watching the second hand make its little trip around the dial. Just about ready to call it quits, Kris appeared again.

"I can take your order." He said it so calmly. You'd never guess how hard he worked. He gave us his full attention, as if we were his only concern. I explained we were in a bit of a rush, and he assured me he'd get our order to us quickly. We placed our order.

He didn't write it down. He looked us each in the eye, repeated our orders precisely and headed off.

Not toward the kitchen.

First he stopped at another table to check in on everyone. Then he bussed yet another table. All very quickly. Efficiently. Never rushed, though. Intriguing!

Finally, into the kitchen. Then out.

I pointed him out to Nathan, "Watch how he works. He's everywhere, but he's so calm about it."

Moments later, he returned to the kitchen and brought us our breakfast. Serving us, he asked if we needed anything else and went on his way. Again. Serving, cleaning, checking on everyone and everything.

As I took my last bite, he reappeared, asked if we needed anything else and cleared Nathan's dishes. Finished with breakfast, Kris gave us our bill.

As though serving God, and not for man.

Before he left, he paused. "Would you like a cup of water to go?" "No," we replied.

He paused. He placed his hand gently on the table. "I hope you both have a really blessed day." With a nod, he was gone. Cleaning, bussing, serving.

If you ever get to Birmingham, I hope you'll head to the Ihop at 7748 Crestwood Blvd. Ask for Kris' table. 

Memorial Box Monday: Teamwork

I'm not sure how to start this post... I'm simply thankful.

God allows me to serve on the next generation ministry team at our church. My given titles are director of Surge 56 ministry and coordinator for all next generation orientation. Those are just titles, though. Really, we work together to minister to kids each weekend.

I am thankful that God designed us to be in relationship with one another.
I am thankful that the people I serve with have a kingdom perspective not a selfish one.
I am thankful that we can serve where we're called by God to be.
I am simply thankful.

Yesterday, Surge (our newly launched fifth and sixth grade ministry) was running full-speed ahead at the same time we had orientation. Orientation "set records" so to speak -- 40 people were there to check out our ministry opportunities. A record crowd. The team ran out of applications, student booklets and chairs. It could have been a disaster, but...

Surge volunteers ran chairs over to Orientation. Surge team leaders knew their roles so I could leave and assist at Orientation. One of our Surge leaders willingly took her organizational talents to assist with orientation paperwork. No hesitation. No questions. She just did what she could to help wherever she was most needed.

The titles don't matter. Not mine. Not anyone else's. They're simply short-cuts to defining a role. The hearts matter. This weekend, I was blessed out of my socks watching it all unfold. Christians serving together to make it happen. With love. Humility. Honor.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as though serving the Lord..." Col. 3:23. Simply nothing better! I'm putting the list of volunteers from yesterday's orientation into my memorial box. Each of these precious people can join our team because we have that heart. I don't ever want to take that for granted.

If you don't know what Memorial Box Monday is, it all started at Linny's blog: "A Place Called Simplicity." A friend of mine introduced me to it, and I love it! love it! love it!!! Memorial Box Monday provides an opportunity to remember all the good things God has done. Huge, gigantic things and little things that might seem insignificant. God's word is clear: "Cast every care on Me, for I care for you." (1 Peter 5:7). 

Go and make disciples

"Go and make disciples of all..." Matt. 28:19

I've known this verse a long time, but I only began to grasp its real application recently. I'm a little ashamed to make that admission, especially since I've been in ministry leadership for years.

"Go and make disciples." Jesus couldn't have been more plain. Go - get out there. Make disciples - lead people into relationship with me. Perhaps the problem is we over-spiritualize that last part.

I don't think I've always understood what Jesus meant. It's not about going into remote jungles along the Amazon or sweating it out in the deserts of Africa. It's not about being a religious expert who can spout a Bible verse to fit every situation. It's not about moral superiority - I can help you because I've already overcome that. I really made the verse much harder than it is!

Jesus simply wants us to live in such a way that others will know Him. We don't have to say a word... in fact, our quiet love might say more than words could. 

Imagine the frazzled mom in the grocery store. She screams at her kids while she pulls at her hair in frustration. Most people offer shocked stares and scurry to a different aisle. Why not be Jesus for her? Identify with her where she is. Let her know you've experienced similar moments. Then offer your help -- even if it means setting your own shopping aside for a while so you can entertain the kids and let her think.

No remote jungle. Just a mom in the grocery store, needing support and encouragement. Live differently!

I've felt the "nudge" of the holy spirit telling me to pay for another person's groceries. I admit I haven't always obeyed that nudge. How many times did God open the door for me to start a conversation about Him and I ignored it? The lost opportunity plays in my head:

Me - to the store clerk, "I'll pay for theirs, too."

Astounded shopper, "You don't have to do that."

We go back and forth until finally they ask, "Why?"

My simple reply, "Because Jesus loves you."

No dry desert of sand, but I'm sure I missed opportunities to minister to dry deserts of the heart.

Christians, do the people you encounter know you are different? Does your life reflect the love of Jesus in all you say and do? Or do you, like me, over-complicate it?

Let's make the choice to live the verse simply, every single day. Let's revolutionize the world, one kind act of love at a time. 

God bless!

Memorial Box Monday: Hands for Haiti

About 10 days after the earthquake in Haiti, my husband boarded a plane headed there to provide medical relief. He learned of the opportunity to go late Wednesday and left home early Sunday morning. In that time, did some mad shopping for needed supplies: waterproof work boots, cargo pants, and miscellaneous needed medical supplies and packed his bags.

The only hesitation came when he asked that Wednesday, "What about missing eight days of income? Can we handle that?" I replied, "If God wants you to go, don't you think He'll take care of us?" (I just love it when I actually get to be the wise one instead of the doubter... and I love it more that God put together a marriage of incredible faith balance!)

Now back to the story...

While he prepared, our church family stepped in and helped too, providing more than 50 pounds of medical gauze. Gauze is NOT heavy... 50 pounds is a lot of gauze!

One store gave him a 20% discount on everything he needed as soon as they learned of the trip.

The airline waived baggage fees for checked luggage and brought him and the rest of his team meals at no charge. You know how the airlines are these days -- that was totally amazing!

God's little miracles tickle me and make me smile.

This trip, though, God decided to show off a bit. He's God, so He's allowed to be grand whenever He wants! When Rob returned to work, he received a bonus check. The weird thing was he had already received his year end bonus in December. It turns out that the accountant recalculated based on something (I didn't pay too close attention to that detail) and determined that the bonuses needed adjusted. That bonus check was less than $5.00 different than what Rob makes in eight days of work!

Don't you just love it?

Totally and completely thankful for God's provision, I am placing a picture of my husband faithfully serving God by caring for the precious people of Haiti.

PLEASE CONTINUE to pray for Haiti. The rains have come, and the living conditions are deteriorating. This nation needs our love and support. Don't forget Haiti! Check out Praying 4 Haiti to see how you can help. The cool t-shirts are only $20 and all proceeds go directly to relief work in Haiti.

Memorial Box Monday started at "A Place Called Simplicity." A friend of mine introduced me to it last week, and I love it! love it! love it!!! Memorial Box Monday provides an opportunity to remember all the good things God has done. Huge, gigantic things and little things that might seem insignificant. God's word is clear: "Cast every care on Me, for I care for you." (1 Peter 5:7).

Macciato Madness

Some friends and I gathered last night for a lot of fellowship and a little bit of ministry training. In teams, we prepared a "caramel macchiato." No training on the machines. No recipe for the drink. Just make it. Our brave friend taste tested each one, with the appropriate display of horror after each sip! The girls won, of course, the best of the worst. Needless to say, all the baristas out there in coffee world have job security!

At home last night, more lessons just seeped in... things we all could benefit from, not just in ministry, but in life:

1. Others learn from our example. Kids are especially keen observers. From the moment they're born, kids watch us in the kitchen, on the phone, with the laundry, everywhere. They learn from what we do - our good example and our bad. So do our employees, our ministry team members, and even our friends.

2. A few moments of instruction can save a lot of heartache. After our feeble attempts at macciato making, the "real" coffee guy showed us how to properly prepare the drink. I think, maybe, I can make one now. Sometimes, I assume my kids know how to do something though I've never really instructed them. They get angry or frustrated. Me too. Wouldn't it be wiser to slow the pace just enough to instruct and encourage before expecting them to do it?

3. Laugh. Our coffee was a complete disaster, but we had fun. Life is too short to dwell on mistakes. Instead, learn from the mistake and let it go. Take a risk, embrace life, and love the journey.