Listening and Responding to God.

Over the course of the last few months especially, things have been somewhat confusing. Times of transition where there are no easy answers... except are there? Times where God requires more of me than ever before honestly....

Warning: The following is raw.

Austin and I have had some real in-depth conversations the last 24 hours. On Saturday night, we drove through a city where my past came calling loud and clear. On Sunday night, I shared more with Austin about some of the times I wasn't following God like I should have been. And about the consequences of those actions on my part. He literally called me out about it. Asked why hasn't he heard about that before now - he's sixteen remember? And why others in our student ministry haven't heard about it from me... Like with about the fact that his mother had sex as a teen.... he was mad at me for a bit and then told me to use those experiences to help others. "It might help others to know why you have the position about drinking alcohol that you do." Ouch. My halo fell down again.

Then, this morning, as he was getting ready to go to work at the little store in our highly secure gated community, Austin surprised me with some news. He said, "Mom? I've told my Halo group that I will no longer be able to be their leader." He said that he did that because he was responding to what God told him. He has too much going on right now that is requiring his attention. Something had to give.... it was his Christian Halo clan ministry... His time online is virtually next to nothing now. What kind of leader could he be given that? He's an even better leader now that he has stepped down... then again I'm sort of biased aren't I?

Yesterday, someone said to me, "Camey? You posted about another church knocking at the door. You shouldn't do that kind of thing." Well, frankly.... I/we do not see our current church and any other church that is knocking at our door in competition with each other. We will serve with our current church with joy and with His strength and love until He completely closes that door.... if He even does at all.... One thing He continues to speak to our souls about is being about His kingdom.... That is wherever we may go.... may be.... it does not have to be in a physical church building at all... or with a particular group of people. And remember? We live in a relatively small town any way....

If we truly are His.... listening and responding to Him should be as natural as rain even if it at times it feels more like pulling teeth. There are times when things are confusing... I'm not going to try to pretend that's not the case. And yet, there is peace that when we listen to and respond to Him.... even if we are not sure what colors the walls are being painted..... the foundation is secure.

Are you listening and responding to God this moment?

By Request: Where is Home

Where is Home
Written: December 9th, 2005

In the crowd she stands looking so sad yet trying to command a smile. Longing to be anywhere but where she’s found herself. Little children at her feet – wondering where would they sleep tonight?

In the aisle of the store he looks in a daze as he tries to decide. Would it be one can or two? He searches in his pocket – only a couple dollars and some change. Would it be enough to feed his family tomorrow too?

At the doctor’s office riddled in pain, trying not to show the tears, in her gentle ole voice she whispers, “Does anyone truly care?” In a room full of chattering people, no one hears a sound.

Rushing through the busy mall she grabs each item and says “Charge!” “This one is for Jimmy and this one for Jill.” When time to wrap them she tries to remember, “Did we give them these last year?”

Driving down the long highway listening to the roar of the engine, he forgets how long he’s been gone. With what seems like miles to go and needing some rest, he pulls over when to a little town has come.

He walks into the only place he thinks might be welcoming this time of night. With candlelight to usher him in, he hopes that he is right.

He walks up to the front of the room and gets down on his knees. He looks up at the cross and starts to pray, “Father forgive me if you would please? I’ve been away so very long but it’s time now to come home. You’re all I’ve ever needed. I’ll rest in you alone.”

As he gets up off the floor with tears streaming down his face, he finds he is not alone in this tiny little place. For waiting in a line behind him standing oh so near are all the others who have gathered home for Christmas this year.

One by one they start to share of what in life has brought them there. The woman with her little children had been looking for shelter in all the wrong places. The man had not taken seriously his responsibilities with his family finances. The older woman had looked to the doctors to heal her aching heart. Jimmy and Jill’s mother realized she had put everything else above being their mom.

Standing in a circle holding hands they all begin to pray. One by one their loneliness starts to melt away. For when we spend time with God just speaking from our hearts, He is there to listen and always will respond. Circumstances in life may not necessarily change, but how we deal with them through God can make for a better way.

For whether in the good times or the bad, or somewhere in-between, home is where the heart is and where Jesus should be King. For many years ago in a manager a little babe was born - His legacy to give us the greatest gift of all.

So this Christmas may you find where your home truly is? For it does not have to be decorated with gold ribbons and bows to be entered in with His presence.

The moral of this story I hope you will hear. Christmas is not about the tree, Santa Claus, or reindeer. If you’re feeling like you really do not have the spirit of the season, check inside your heart to find out who might be missing.

Slow Dance. Breakfast Served.

Well, yesterday I had planned on being gone by 8:00 a.m. this morning. My mother decided she could not go to our dear old friend's Celebration Service. It is being held where my parents were married all those years ago. It honestly was too much for her to handle right now. Yes, she has the boyfriend... but that does not mean she does not miss the man who had been her husband for 44 years especially this time of year.

As I sat in the kitchen at 6:30 a.m. this morning drinking my coffee.... hubby, myself, Travman, and mom all talked about how busy our schedules are this coming week. I came back to our bedroom and opened my Bible and prayed..... Hubby then said to me that he preferred that I did not go to the service for it is not close. That he thought I ought to stay home and rest this morning..... It's past 8:30 a.m. as I am writing this..... Obviously I listened to his wise counsel....

There are times when the dance is fast... Parker did indeed finish reading all 20 books now...... Others, when it is slow.... And hubby just made and served us breakfast....

The Celebration Service will carry on....

This moment, yet again, is made for worshipping and praising God!

Ticket Sale Vital Information

Dates and Times:

Thursday, December 13th
Doors open 5:45 p.m. - Simple hors d'oeuvres & music in foyer
Dinner seating begins - 6:00 p.m. (seating maximum 300)
Dinner begins - 6:30 p.m.
Performance Begins - approximately 7:25 p.m.
Intermission - approximately 8:15 p.m.
Act II begins - approximately 8:30 p.m.
Performance ends - approximately 9:10 p.m.

Friday, December 14th
Same Schedule as Thursday

Saturday, December 15th
Same Schedule as Thursday

Sunday, December 16th - PERFORMANCE ONLY - NO DINNER - FREE
Doors open 6:00 p.m.
Performance begins at 6:30 p.m.
Intermission - approximately 7:20 p.m.
Act II Begins - approximately 7:35 p.m.
Performance ends - approximately 8:15 p.m.

Other Important Information:
Childcare ONLY available for Sunday night performance. (3 and under)
Dress? There are fine linens being used along with wait staff for dinner performances. David will be in his tux. Suggestion are business casual to dressy to formal.

You may order online, at the kiosk on Sunday, or call Ms. E or me at the physical church building throughout the week.

Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow. Correction.

Yesterday:

Brother G got another phone call. This time a really hard knock on the door. Please pray for God's clear direction.

What a special night! TR pulled out all the stops and Linc led us in worship. He sang some of his friend, Charlie Hall, songs, played the cello, guitar, piano.... and of course sang.. Wow. Brother G & I were thankful to be hanging out with the deacons and their wives at their Christmas banquet. Of course, with several others of the ministerial staff as well. And Brother G even won a door prize!

Today:

Please call and reserve your tickets for Two From Galilee! They are going fast. Friday night is sold out. Austin is doing the lighting. He says it is amazing! The cost is for the highly quality meal that is being served.

Tonight we will be spending time with hubby's family. His dad is being honored at a retirement dinner for the major company he has worked with for 40 years! We look forward to seeing them and hearing great stories of days and years gone by....

Tomorrow:

My mother and I will be attending the Celebration Service for our old friend that passed on. Please continue to pray for all involved.

Tomorrow night we are hanging out again with hubby's parents, sister and her little girl, and one of his brothers and his wife. We haven't seen some of them in a year plus. Two nights in a row. Can't wait!

Correction:

Parker realized yesterday while at school that he had not read one of the twenty books. So, he is not finished reading all the Bluebonnet books yet. Thank you Parker for being honest. We're even more proud of you now than before.

There are numerous prayer requests... Please pray specifically today for the P family and the A family. Thank you.

Sabby Man. Thataboy Parker!

Sabby Man:

His name is John. He and I were talking as we were waiting for the school bell to ring. I had the pleasure of picking up Parker.... he was there to pick up his son and daughter. He has been on a sabbatical since May. He is a journalism professor at a major university.

One thing that really struck me about our conversation.... John said he totally relates to stay-at-home moms now. He is aching for adult conversations daily. Even though he has been engrossed in his research work, it is met with relative quietness. Their two children are gone for 7 hours Monday through Friday. His wife has a high demand job outside of being a mom.

He also said that it unnatural for him to not be at a job. He has been working since he was 17. He is 49 now. And again, even though he is doing research from his home office, still not the same.

I admire him for his honesty. No wonder he needed to ride 21 miles today, in our 73 degree December weather, to be out and about away from the house.

I wonder how many men can relate to the Sabby Man?

Thataboy Parker!

Parker has completed reading all 20 of the Bluebonnet books for the state of Texas. He is the first in his intermediate (4th and 5th) school to do so. Oh, if you've ever heard me talk about the son of ours who almost died 3 times in his first month of life and who doctors say was born two months early.... that son would be Parker. We were told that he would have all types of disabilities. Nope. Not that kid. And actually... he was born when he was supposed to be.

He came home from the NICU after being there his first full month in the outside world. He had to wear a breathing monitor. On Sunday evening, Father's Day, 1998, his breathing monitor stopped working. Parker's dad told me we were not going to call the tech guy out. We stood over Parker's crib, held hands, and prayed. Parker's dad thanked God for the time we had had with Parker up to that time and that no matter what happened during the night, we were thankful for his life. Parker was an exceedingly quiet baby. He rarely ever cried. Even when he did... you could still barely hear him. We went to our bedroom and closed the door. The baby monitor was beside our bed...

The next morning, as I walked in to Parker's room... not a single sound could be heard. And yet....... as I peered over the side of his crib.... there he laid just smiling from ear to ear. We never used the breathing monitor again. For in reality...... monitors are just that... It could not save his life if his time was up. But it wasn't up..... And God is using Parker to this day to inspire the heck out of those who know him. And he loves Jesus with all his heart.....

Thataboy Parker! Thank you also Mark Schultz for the song "He's My Son" that meant so much to us during that time and still does...

Thank You God..... for the gift of reading... for life... for sons...

Especially for Your Son Jesus. For no son could ever truly compare.

Tears Flow. Faith Still Holds Secure.

On my way home from a meeting at the physical church building this morning, I got the word. An old family friend has passed away. His name was Billy Jo. He called me either his Darlin'Girl or Little Miss Sunshine and would squeeze the heck out of my shoulders with his side hugs. The tears flow because I'm thankful for the life he lived. They also flow because of and for her....

Her name is JoAnne. Billy Jo is her second husband to bury. She is only in her 50's. She has always been an example to me and any one else watching her how a wife should be. She also buried one of her sons shortly after his daddy past away. She and Billy Jo were an unlikely pair and yet they loved each other deeply. In truth, I always laughed watching the two of them together. They were beyond cute and mushy. Having known both of their previous spouses (both of whom were deceased), in some ways made them even more endearing to me. Today, she is a widow yet again.

Another thing about JoAnne has been her unwavering faith in God. No matter what trials and suffering has come her way, her faith still holds secure.

Thank You Lord for Billy Jo and his life. Thank You for JoAnne and her unquestionable testimony of faith through each moment of life in-between the dashes and her own.

Please pray for all connected. Yes, even me. This makes the twelfth person I've been more than remotely close to in my life pass on since 2005. And my faith is secure as ever... and tears flow as natural as dew on the lawn that is evergreen in my soul.

"Physical Church Building"

Question: Why do you call it the physical church building instead of the church?

Answer: The church is people. Not just a building up on the hill.

In Local News - GAS!

According to texasgasprices.com and our local newspaper:

Brookshire's and Texaco, both on South Morgan St., have the lowest gas prices in Texas.

$2.54 per gallon for regular unleaded as opposed to $2.96.

Now that news worth talking about.

Fill er up!

Better Than A Wide Screen TV

So earlier today, I was called into the physical church building to work for Ms. E. at the main receptionist desk. I said to myself as I sat down in the big black chair, "Wonder what Eugene will have to say to me today?" (No, I don't answer myself... lol)

Sure enough... A few minutes later, there was Eugene at the desk. The conversation had to do with Christmas presents. I shared with him that Brother G normally does not make requests for Christmas presents from me. What he really wants, I cannot buy for him. It is a God thing. Eugene is one of the individuals in Brother G's Wednesday night Bible study class.

An hour or so went by after Eugene left the building. He had gone to Wal-Mart and immediately thought to call me..... He just started talking as soon as I said, "This is Camey. How may I help you?" He responded, "Well, yes. You can help me. There's a 42-inch TV with your hubby's name on it that you need to buy him. I know he would like it." I just busted a gut.

What's funny about Eugene is that he was there the day I was training. Okay... Confession here: I was the President of Future Secretaries of America back in the 80's when I was in high school. There are just some things one does not forget.... Eugene told me that day that he expected me of all people to know answers to his questions when he calls the physical church building. That with sitting at that desk in particular, I should know every single thing that goes on in the church 24/7. Cough. Choke. Cough.

Ring. Ring. His name is Eugene. And honestly, I'm thankful I do not know every single thing. What I do know about Brother G is really rather simple. Christmas is not about any thing that I could purchase for him myself. The best gift came some 2000 plus years ago. And He was/is better than a wide screen TV.

Prayer Request.

Ms. E's son-in-law had his grand dad pass away. Please pray for all involved.

Ms. E. is a wonderful mother-in-law... She is taking the afternoon off from working at the local church building to help take care of the five grand kids.

Things change in a flash. Now their phone won't ring every night at 6:30 p.m. To some that might have seemed like a bother. They cherished it.

Please pray. Thank you.

Moments of Thanks.

Every day.... there are moments of thanks and individuals to be thankful for. Here are a few for today:

1) A man named Bob. He handled the widow woman on the other end of the phone with dignity.

2) A man named Taylor. His time today with hubby helped the future not seem so far away.

3) A man named "Camey's husband"..... lol Even though he is in the big city all day today and won't be home until later tonight.... he has listened to his wife every single time he has called. Really listened.

4) Two men... David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons. unChristian is more than worth the read.

5) ______________ (fill in your name)

Have you been thankful at least once today? And if not, why?

"Situational Christianity"

Over the course of the last few months, this is a term I've used more and more to relate to various things happening with individuals.

What does it mean?

That a situation in an individual's life has changed; and, therefore, they have changed their thoughts and beliefs on Christianity to try to justify their actions.

This is especially true of a growing generation of ........

Senior citizens.

Ex: A man or woman who was married for years. Their spouse passed away. They had a good marriage and took care of their spouse in sickness and health. Now, they believe they are entitled in a sense to do whatever they feel like doing with another individual that they claim to love and care about. To quote an individual: "I've graduated from being married in the traditional way. I did my time. Now, I'm free to live with someone and we can consider ourselves married without all that other hassle. I do not care what any one else thinks about it."

Situational Christianity....

His Name is Stephen

Last night hubby, the boys and myself went to the big city. We did a little shopping and then went to a restaurant for dinner. That's where we met Stephen. He was our server.

It was very obvious that he was having a difficult night. The table to my left, he give them our ticket by mistake. He forgot to order our appetizer and never brought hubby his soup. Hubby ended up eating only salad for dinner. The couple behind us were there with their third child... a baby just a few weeks old. He brought them their food before he ever brought their drinks. His pain was more than evident.

Hubby, with the same mercy and grace he showed last Saturday night with dinner, never mentioned to Stephen about the appetizer or his soup. Stephen realized about the soup when he was starting to clear dishes from our table. He kept apologizing over and over. Hubby told him not to worry about it, that he wasn't all that hungry when we came in any way.

Early on in our time with Stephen, I had mentioned that we do not have one of those restaurants where we live. Stephen had asked what was the special occasion that brought us out... family time was our answer. He smiled. As he continued to clear some of the dishes and had taken care of our ticket..... he told more of his story to us.

He has only been in the big city for a month. He followed his x-wife and their two children there. They've been divorced since June, but have started dating each other again. She got a great paying job, and so there he was as well. When I asked how could we be praying for him specifically, he almost fell over the chair he was leaning against. He asked for us to pray for him..... he wants to get his act together not just for her and the kids but because he realizes he needs to for himself. "I'm 31. I've always had a mother, a girlfriend or a wife to do every single thing for me. I need to learn how to take care of myself and stop being like a child."

He also would love to own, operate, and cook for his own restaurant some day. He said he realized that he needed a lot of help to ever come any where close to that dream. He thanked us and looked a bit more refreshed as we were leaving. Truth is... we did not need the appetizer to begin with either. And he did not charge hubby for his salad.

His name is Stephen. Please pray for him..... his x-wife and their two children. Let us serve up some prayers on their behalf.

Stay Out of that Box!

unChristian: The book by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons.

Oh my. I'm only page 55 and can see why this book needed to be written. It reminds me of some of the lives I've come in contact with the last two years in particular. It definitely reminded me of two individuals yesterday.

I went to where one just started working not long ago to get myself and Brother G some lunch. Hoping to see her still working there. The manager looked at me and said, "She only lasted a week." I cannot tell you how many jobs she has had since I first met her. I hear from her from time to time but, in other ways, she has cut off contact with the church.... She doesn't want to change her lifestyle because she sees nothing wrong with it. She loves me, as do I her, and yet..... she has looked me in the face and said, "Camey? I do not believe in God like you do. You can be a Christian but, I'm not sure I can believe that stuff. Jesus sounds kinda cool but I'm the only one who can save myself." She is one whom I pray every day that I do not hear about in our local news or her baby girl.

There's another twenty-something that will call when she wants some thing from me. Normally it's just to see if I can babysit her baby boy so she can go out. By going out, I mean, getting so drunk that she does not care whom she has sex with. And no.... I haven't babysat her little boy because it would be an all niter. She has looked me in the face and has said, "Camey? I am a Christian but, I'm still young. I need to have my fun now. I'll take life seriously when I'm older and ready to settle down." If no one will keep her son.... she doesn't go out... at least as far as we all know.

Like the individuals that unChristian represents, it matters what they think about Christianity. One grew up in the church and the other did not. It's individuals like these two that causes me to stay out of that box.... and to fall face down on the floor crying out to Jesus.

Times have changed. We, as the church, must be willing to change as well without trying to compromise the Word of God. And we must also remember whose house it really is.

Books. City. RQM. Rumor Control.

Books:

There are two books that I am currently reading. Consider this fair warning for when I'm done..

1) unChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons

2) REVEAL by Greg Hawkins and Cally Parkinson

City:

Austin and I just returned from shopping in the big city. WOW! Talk about in-depth conversations going to and from. And we did go to Guitar Center. We've definitely got a guitarist on our hands now. Awesome! And shopping is a lot more fun when he spends the money he has worked hard to earn.

RQM:

Yes. Most of my RQMs come from all the talk about sexual issues I have with people. Aren't you thankful I don't blog about all those? (Yes... yes... you are.... it's not just teens my friends.)

Rumor Control:

Yes. I am now the Thursday/Friday downstairs receptionist and/or whenever Ms. E. is unable to work. I am incredibly blessed to be working in yet another way with such amazing individuals.

As always... feel free to email at cameybelieves@charter.net and/or leave a comment and/or prayer request. You've been prayed for!

Prayer Request in Sam's

Brother G just called. He ran into a church member while shopping at Sam's in the big city.

Please pray for their grand-daughter S.... She does not live here but comes and stays during the summer months.

This is a life on the fringe.....

Public School Lessons.

Parker and his mom just got back from the public school he attends. He was relaying to her about a younger boy he saw today. It was a child he had helped back when the younger boy was in pre-kindergarten. According to Parker, "He was really struggling with school then. So.. when I saw him today, I had to ask how things are going for him now. He said he is doing much better and thanked me for asking and for even remembering him."

We're not always fans of public schools. And yet, this with Parker today served as a great reminder of why two of our three sons are even in public schools still.

There is A reason.

Oh... About Parker being hurt on the school bus. He did not want the older boy to be punished. He just wanted for someone to find out what was going on in the boy's life that was making him want to physically hurt others and get him some help.

RQM. Rumor Control.

RQM.... really quiet moments. My response is simple. If you could hear some of the conversations I have with individuals.. you would understand why I have RQM. They are necessary.

Rumor Control:

Yes: It was Brother G who got salsa spilt all over his suit jacket on Saturday evening at the new restaurant in town.

No: We are not suing even if the suit jacket is ruined.

Yes: It did happen while we were on our date. Talk about a date to remember!

Yes: We will be going back there.

Persuasive Conversation

To quote Parker: "It still has educational properties."

Now THAT'S the way to try to have a persuasive conversation with a parent. That nine-year old keeps me in stitches.

And at this moment he is hugging me and kissing me because he wants something... And laughing at himself as I'm typing this....

I've never been so thankful for a rainy Saturday morning.

Weather Changes. Seasons.

This morning's plans have already changed. Our local church was scheduled to work along with TxDOT cleaning up the highways around our town. Of course with the rain and cold temperatures, that has been canceled for today.

This afternoon, a young woman is getting married. Hubby and I are going to the ceremony. I must confess to having mixed emotions about this. She knows I do. And yet, she also knows that I love her beyond words. She will make a beautiful bride. Her little boy is going to be all smiles I'm sure for he loves dearly the young man who wants to be his daddy and who loves him and his mommy. With her getting married, obviously, that takes her out of the Sunday group. She was one of the original ones. She is also one of the ones that has stretched me so much in my calling. And yet, I would not trade one moment even when it has brought pain and tears and dropped me to my knees hard. And this afternoon as she says her vows and he.... his.... I will continue to offer love and support. It is after all, not mine alone to give or keep. I pray this next season for her will bring more growth and will bloom into a garden to be cultivated for His glory.

This evening, hubby and I have plans to go out on a date. Yet, one thing I can say without reservation is that we have had the opportunity to spend a good amount of quality time together this week. That did not happen by accident. It was very intentional. It had nothing to do with the holiday even though we are exceedingly thankful. For under God, our relationship with each other falls in-line next. I am a blessed woman to be married to a man who loves God more than he does me, and yet, because of his love for God, loves me all the more.

Weather changes. Seasons come and go. One thing that remains the same..... His love. "For God so loved the world in this way... that He gave..."

What are you are giving this season that takes more than you to give?

For The Love of a Hug

Yesterday was a beautiful day as we traveled to and from a couple of different homes. The 80's that we had known just a couple of days before were transformed into snow and sleet. That is what happens here in Texas.

The last home we were at was filled with children of various ages. One child in particular really stood out to me. When he and I were talking, I made a point to tell him that I had been praying for him since we last saw each other. We talked about his daily life. A life that I won't go into detail here except to say.... pray for him and his family.

One of the other children made a comment about me being like their mom. He was ribbing me and giving me a hard time. The one child in particular walked up to where we were standing and hung onto every word. We then started talking about the various ways we communicate. Something was said about one way that surprised the one child. I told him that he could communicate with me that way as well if he wanted. He smiled from ear to ear.

When we were leaving, hugs were given all around. When I came to hug him, he hugged me first and hugged me tight. And told me thanks for spending time with him and for even caring. Oh, it is times like that especially when tears well up within me.... And I was thankful that we had included this home in our day. As we walked out the front door..... the snow was coming down even heavier than before. White snow falling.......

This child is actually a teen by age. He has already communicated with me in the way he hadn't known he could before. He reminds me of one little boy from years ago. I was saying goodbye to him as we were preparing to move. He told me thank you for all the hugs I had ever given him. That it was because of those hugs that he came to know Jesus was real. He was a child that had known me when I couldn't move my arms or even a finger.

The point of this story is..... you never know what a hug might mean to another. You might be the only person who ever really hugs them. Can you imagine going through life without hugs? I know I cannot. I know I can remember what it was like when someone was hugging me but I could not actually feel it and yet I still knew they loved and cared for me. Can you imagine wanting someone to love you, hoping that they do, and yet.... they never give even the hint of wanting to put their arms around you? There are those who do know... They don't have to imagine.

A hug can be simple. Or it can make a difference in a person's life... Not because of you or me... but because of His love alone. He loved first after all....

Signed,
A Hugger Without Apology

More Than The Sum of Life

More than the sum of today
More than the cost of yesterday
More than the price of tomorrow
None can compare
To Him

No coffee to drink
No food to eat
No other love to know
No other place to call home
It is only Him

His love is more than the sum of life

Thank You Father for the gift of every day

Proof. Absolute Proof.

How do I know we live in the country? Here's the proof:

"With traffic clogging up and accidents hither and yon" - quote from our local newspaper

Now, that's what I call absolute proof.

Funny enough? I thought yon was on the other side of town.

Signed,
You Can Take The Woman Out of the City But She Still Knows Real Traffic When She Sees It

No Ordinary Wednesday.

The temperature here in G-town has drastically changed compared to this time yesterday. It actually looks and feels the way that most say November should. As I sit here looking out the window, I can see the limbs on the trees moving due to the wind blowing. The 80's are a memory of a day gone by...

I had a hot date earlier for lunch. Brother G was out making a hospital visit. I invited my date into the kitchen to cook with me. I watched his every step... and he mine.... until there were noodles on my foot and the floor. We laughed. We sat at the bar and just talked. Our subject matter varied from the housing market to how well we cook together. His kisses either make me smile from ear to ear or make me bust out laughing. At times, I have to remind myself he is only nine.

Austin is at work today at the little store inside the highly secure gated community. I took him his jacket just as he was getting ready to take a lady's groceries out to her car. It may be cold outside and yet, I know each person that Austin takes their groceries out for will feel warmth... He closes their trunks with "God loves you." I thought that maybe his bosses might get some complaints about this. Quite the opposite has happened.

Travis spent time with his Gma today on the fairways and greens. Her boyfriend is under the weather and wasn't up to a game of golf. When they came in, I offered them some lunch. They had already eaten. They had shared a hamburger and fries together up at the club. There was a hilarious story about the clubhouse guys having to come to the rescue in regards to the purple golf cart. Trav's face is red. He said that if he knew he was going to be playing more golf this week... he wouldn't have gotten a flat-top. What a pair they make... A 65-year old woman and a 13-year old boy who plays better than some men.

Brother G is out being the lawn pastor at this moment. He has a major paper due here soon that he had planned on working on when returning from the hospital. And yet, as so often, his plans changed. How could he tell the man lying in the hospital bed with pneumonia, heart problems, and cancer that his paper was more important than taking care of his lawn? His paper is after all on ministering to the elderly.

As I look back out the window, it appears that the sun is now peaking out a bit more than before. I don't know what window you're looking out this moment.... I pray you are more hot than cold... And if you are just taking a peek... may you see a glimpse of fallen leaves worth jumping in and throwing up in the air.

The limbs are really dancing with joy.

Raise Your Hopeful Voice

There are many churches that are going through difficult times right now. I know our local church body is not alone. One thing that has struck me in numerous conversations that I have been having over a period of time is that individuals are seemingly without hope about what is taking place or already has. As I sit here reading a book by Willow Creek called REVEAL, I'm struck all the more.

One thing that I firmly believe that is missing, in not only in our local church, but in most churches in general, is that of the body of believers raising their hopeful voices. We must stop constantly looking behind us and look toward today... tomorrow. Yes, it is necessary to evaluate and take inventory of where we've been. Yet, if nothing is done with that information, it might as well have not even have had time invested in it. And without hesitation... I submit that the most vital piece of information often gets completely overlooked even though it gets tossed about.

Our hopeful voices should not come from a program, a mission statement, a building, a particular personality, or even... dare I say... a denomination affiliation. For in the end and every moment in between.... hope in those things fall short. The only hope we have is found in Him. And honestly? That is enough. It is sufficient. It is every thing in life... and living.

Raise your hopeful voice. And let Him write the music that changes the notes of mere existence..... mere Christianity.

Writers and Their Forms

I’ve heard it said that writers are emotional people
That we tend to wear our feelings throughout our words
We can paint pictures with each stroke of our pen or fingers
We can take people places they may or may not want to linger

Can you recall the first time you consciously sat down to write
What was your motivation and gave your words flight
Do you write for others or more so to cleanse your mind
Or do you find yourself writing to record something in time

Whatever brought to you to the page, are you thankful
When someone else is reading your work, are you grateful
Or are you able to write and know that you may never learn
Why it is for the written form that you have come to yearn





09/21/04

My Roots

Today I climbed a tree and sat a while on its branches
While gazing upon the beauty around me – I smiled deeply
Feeling the wind blowing gently across my face – I blushed
When thinking of how you love me – I sat in amazement
Upon climbing down I realized just how often you hold me!
You are my Strength, my Deliverer, and my Song! My Roots…..


9/08/04

For those who wanted some poetry. And yes, I actually climbed a tree that day.

Guest Blogger: Leonard

Leonard is a dear brother in ministry from California. Here's what's on his heart/mind today:

Go make disciples… These are the marching orders of our friend, Jesus. On the surface it seems simple and sometimes when we read the accounts in the book of Acts the details of how disciples were made gets lost in the fact that people were converted. Of course Jesus makes it easy to understand, travel with 12 guys for three plus years and “viola’” you have disciples. I have been in ministry over 25 years and still struggle to make disciples, but here are a few of my random thoughts that I am trying to flesh out as I endeavor to carry out the marching orders of my friend, Jesus.

Make discipleship about becoming a friend of God rather than looking like a Christian. Near the end of Jesus ministry he pulls his guys together and says. I am not calling you servants anymore; I am calling you friends because a friend knows what their friend is up to. (this is the Leonard's slandered perversion) As I disciple people one of the primary truths I try to teach is what a friendship with God looks like. Here are a few of the descriptions I try to apply.

I want people to understand the size of their friend. When I was a kid I was short. I had a couple big friends. The size of my friends gave me confidence to be a bit of a daredevil smarty pants. I could muster up courage to say things I might not have were it not for the size of my friends riding backup. One reason for boldness is the size of our friend. God is immeasurable and honestly, that is cool. When faced with a tough conversation or decision I will often think, “Do you know how big my friend is? He can do anything!”

I want people to understand loyalty. Loyalty is the quality in a friendship that allows us to not understand and still remain close friends. I have to admit, sometimes it is loyalty in my friendship with Christ that holds me until the fog can clear.

I want people to understand gratefulness. When gratefulness is in a friendship, faithfulness is in a friendship. I cannot remain faithful to any friendship I am not grateful for and I cannot be grateful unless I choose humility. The key to any great friendship is putting your friend first. No greater love hand any man than this than he lay down his life for his friends. This is not just a statement about Christ’s friendship with me but a standard for my friendship with him and his frineds.

Familiarity is huge in a great friendship. I have a buddy and we simply know. I know what he is thinking and he knows what I am thinking. This has made for the best in our friendship. We rarely have to apologize to each other because we rarely offend each other. We talk for hours on end, repeating stories because we know we love to hear each others thinking. We know exactly how to encourage each other because we are aware of each others strengths and weaknesses. This has happened by logging the time necessary to be familiar. Familiarity breeds contempt only when humility is absent.

I want people to understand love. Love is the action word for all friendships. Love is what causes me to live out the desires of my friend’s heart. In other words I love what my friend loves because I love my friend. Love is what drives remembering the values of friendship and of my friend in the middle of life. Here is another one of my slanderd perversions of scripture.

Love is the act of kindness; love is patience applied; love is the enjoyment of my friends success (does not envy), love is the sharing of my success; (does not boast), love is seeking others first, love is choosing to not let hurt turn into anger; love chooses to erase the chalk board of offense; love holds on to holiness while being embarrassed by sin; love shields friends and friendship from harm; love starts every conversation believing the best; love is confident love is the best path; (love hopes) love hangs in and love holds the line when nothing else will. 1 Corinthians 13 kind of…

I want people to understand sacrifice. Great friendships are never based upon doing the minimum but upon sacrifice. No friendship ever grew deep without generosity. This is really the premise of “we love because he loved first.” God’s sacrificial, generous investment of love into my life is why I love.

Here is the impact. When friendship is a primary value, the tools for friendship are not burdensome. Church, the bible, prayer, giving, witnessing, serving are all on the list of good Christians but in reality these do not make me a good Christian, they are how I express and build friendship. Because I value my friendship with Christ these become no brainier’s to me, not burdens of being a Christian.

For discussion: How do you build your friendship with God? How do you teach others to build a friendship with God?

Cheese - Local News.

"Cheese" will be discussed Tuesday (November 20th) afternoon from 1-4 at the American Town Hall next to the library on Travis Street.

I first posted about Cheese in June...

Cheese? A Warning!

Hello. You've Reached The....

If you were to call the number we give as our home phone.. you would think you've dialed the wrong number unless you know my maiden name or my mother's name. The voice would be that of the man who was my dad and had been her husband and etc.... Time marches on....

This morning, the woman of the house gave her son-in-law and daughter (me) permission to now change the message on the phone. We've been waiting for her to make the decision in her own timing. This is one area where life has been a little strange for the past year plus. And yet, it has served a great reminder in so many ways....

Our Father longs for us to know and recognize His voice.. For it to bring us comfort and all that should be associated with a father's love. I can still recall the sound of my daddy's voice. And yet, today just like yesterday.... and God's will permitting... like tomorrow.. it is not my favorite voice to know or have known.... There is only One Real Father.

Whose voice would answer your inner phone?

"Letting It Roll."

As someone told me last night, "Camey? Your family lives the weirdest life. I'm not sure how you guys keep up with it all." This morning, I definitely have to agree. Back when we surrendered to full-time ministry in 2004, we knew we were in for a wild ride... Little did we know. And yet we suspected....

This morning my hubby said, "We're letting it roll." This statement comes after the wildest day in ministry yet. And given a few of the ones we've had thus far... that's saying a lot. My long gray brunette hair feels like it is has been in an electric socket. And yet, I'm having to laugh. More than any thing else... praising God and seeking His face.

As I said yesterday.... we're in transition. That was never more clear than on November 14th, 2007. It's like we're standing on the edge of today... of tomorrow.... the very next moment. It is one of those times in life where God is more of a mystery to me than normal. If you were to see the map of my/our life up until now.. you would know that is huge statement coming from me. I am a woman who wasn't supposed to have children. We have three sons.... one of which almost died three times in his first month of life and is as healthy as a horse today. I've known what it is to be fed, bathed, unable to move due to being paralyzed from the neck down and told there is no hope. I've seen the doctors faces when a complete healing with no medical explanation has taken place. Mystery.....

Before my hubby and I surrendered to full-time ministry, he was all set to be a life-long employee of the company he was working for. In 2005, he/we walked away from the benefits of full-time employment with a major company for 17 years. We gave away and/or sold almost every thing we've had the blessing of calling ours.... All because of this mystery.

And letting it roll never sounded so good. Never sounded so freeing. Because one thing we've come to feel in our bones is that this life is not ours..... and as much as we think we know we can determine what tomorrow will hold... it remains a mystery... as does today.. this moment.

How are you letting it roll?

For the Love of Trouble

Trouble wears her name well. I was fortunate to spend some time with her earlier. The conversations we have are some of the most heavy hitting of any I've ever had with anyone. She walked up to me in the foyer of the physical church building and asked, "So what's new that you can talk about?" We hugged as we always do... unless of course one of us ain't hugging that day for whatever the reason....

Like I was sharing with Trouble, I know individuals who say that most of their closest friends, along with themselves, smoke weed on a regular basis. They do not honestly see any thing wrong with it. And I know that someone reading this might just fall on that side too. All I can say is that I personally do not believe it is the thing to do. Does that mean I won't walk through life with that individual?.... with you? No, that's not what that means.

For the love of Trouble.... we understand that all we can do is be there. To pray for whatever is going on that is causing someone to want to do drugs in the first place. For most know that it may start with weed but rarely stays there..... it can have life long affects... and effects....

Trouble is old enough to be my grandmother. We both believe that Jesus is answer. There is no age gap in that belief.

Pray for Trouble's extended family. And pray for your own and mine too. Drugs do touch all of our lives whether or not we inhale, snort, shoot up,....... ourselves.

Conversations With Austin

First I have to start by saying.... Man, I love that kid. Thank You, Lord for the gift of him.

Austin and I have the most in-depth conversations normally when going to and from the physical church building. Hubby and I believe in sharing with our sons what is truly happening in our lives on age (spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical) level scale. Today's conversation was raw and honest to the core.

Austin has been called into the ministry. The specifics are not known as of yet. He is definitely a leader already and greatly involved in numerous areas. The conversation today was the perfect opportunity to really speak about the struggles, that as individuals, we can have about listening to God and following His will no matter what that means.

Along the lines of "God's will permitting"..... We talked about the fact that I plan things as a woman minister with the understanding that I follow his dad. I am committed to being wherever he is at and whatever God has for our lives. At times, that definitely puts me in a strange and uncomfortable place. I wouldn't be any where else honestly. I'm not an in the box type of person. That's not who God has called me to be...... nor my hubby.... or our family.

I am so thankful for conversations with Austin. I am grateful that his love for God outweighs his comfort level. And that he understands that his mom looks to his dad as the spiritual leader of our household. Yes, his mom was called into ministry also..... But not to overshadow his dad. His dad supports his mom 100% as his mom does him. We do so with the understanding that at the beginning of the day, at the end..... and every moment in the middle.... it is not about us....

It is all about Him. And after all.... aren't all Christ-followers called to follow Him... to serve?

God's Will Permitting. Tranformers.

Someone noticed that I have started saying, "God's will permitting."

God's will permitting.... for while one can make plans for tomorrow, tomorrow is truly an unknown.

And yes, at this moment we are seeking God's will for our lives. Aren't we always supposed to be?

At this moment, we are in a specific time of transition. We ask for your prayers.

I submit to you, however, as Christ-followers, we should remain in the state of transition.

Why? Growing in Him. Not remaining the same today as we were yesterday.

He is the Ultimate Transformer!

Crashing Waves

If you are a Christ-follower, where are you this moment?

Are you in the boat, sitting all nice and neat and safe?

Or are you out in the crashing waves knowing it is only with His hand can you walk?

Engulf His Word. Let it permeate your heart. And then ask His help.

Get out of the boat and into the crashing waves.

Know that He is there ready to meet you.

Don't be lukewarm or cold. Be HOT!

Crashing Waves. His net is secure.

You Raise Me Up

Today concluded the parenting class that I have been teaching the last 10 weeks at our physical church building. As I sit here thinking back over the classes, I cannot help but be beyond thankful. My main purpose as a Bible study teacher, no matter what the particular study may concentrate on, is to always bring individuals back to the cross and to the empty tomb. To help each individual grow in their walk with Jesus or to want to start one if they haven't already. Another purpose is to come up along side of them and help them in areas where they might need a hand. This sort of thing is not possible in of my own accord. It is only possible with the guidance of His Spirit.

I started off the very first class by being as transparent as I know how to be. And I stayed that course for the remainder of the classes. One thing I've learned time and time again, the more I show myself to be real, the more real I become. Apparently, at times, I can be intimidating. Or so I've been told. One of the Titus 2 women in my life told me before this class, "Camey? You just let your hair down and let them see you." I even took my shoes off and provided chocolate like I do for my Sunday group. God is good.

This class was by far one of the best ones I've ever been a part of. It is only in Him that I boast. For it is only Him who can take such a diverse group of women and a teacher like me and come up with a formula for success. In January, God's will permitting of course, I am scheduled to teach a marriage class. Upon sharing this information with this class, I asked for a show of hands of those who would be interested, all but one raised her hand. I asked a couple of the women afterwards what could I do next time to help them get even more out of the study than they did this time. They both said, "Camey? Do it like you did this one. Continue to follow His lead."

I am convinced all the more after this class that my research over the years holds true. That individuals long for others to come up along side of them and simply walk with them - warts and all. When we are able to share from our hearts, all pretenses left at the door, the Word can truly come alive in ways that are only possible because of Him. I shared my struggles as a Christ-follower, as a wife, and as a parent. And they in turn, shared back. And in the end, we were each brought back to the cross and the empty tomb.

It is finished because He alone raised each one of us up.

Signed,
A grateful teacher and life long student

Marriage: It Takes More Than Two

So..... I start this with a confession. Normally, hubby/Brother G, is gone on Mondays. I had been planning on blogging on this subject today for a couple of weeks now. He didn't leave home until just a little bit ago. Apparently, I've been walking around with a certain kind of smile on my face all day. He kept calling me out on it. He knows I am up to something. What, he doesn't know.... It is no coincidence that I am writing on this subject today and he is doing what he is doing tonight.... preaching to pastors/preachers on the subject of marriage. As I sit here at his computer listening to his music and having lifted him up in prayer, I am filled with joy.

Earlier, he gave me his sermon outline to read. I had to laugh. If you remember back in the post on "Spiritual Intimacy," I referenced a certain commercial. He has the same reference as part of his sermon. And I think that goes to show the validity of this post even more so. He and I are on the same page. That doesn't necessarily happen because of the two of us.... but because of the three. We are not in this marriage just as a husband and a wife; nor as a man and woman alone.

As with the premise behind "Spiritual Intimacy," I write about marriage and he preaches. One thing we've learned over our many years together, marriage is not just about us. It cannot fully be all God intends for it to be when we're in it for ourselves. The world tells us that if we're not happy 24/7, and/or if our spouse is not meeting all our needs/wants, it's okay for us to just leave. Yet, one thing we know for certain is that it is humanly impossible for any one person to meet all our needs. They were not intended to do so in the first place. Marriage should be based on the foundation of God and then built with His guiding hand every single day, not just on Sunday or before chowing down at the table or at some holiday.

One thing that can help couples become closer in their marriage is praying together. It definitely works for us. They don't have to be fancy, formal, long prayers. Just prayers that speak from the heart and are open to the fact that God truly knows what is best for us even when we can't always see tomorrow or the next moment. In understanding better what is best for us also comes the fact that it may and probably will include trials and storms.... It is being found faithful to looking to Him through the thick and thin... and then to each other. His love is what truly binds two hearts together and intertwines them as one.

Marriage is made even more complicated when a child or children are involved. One reason why so many marriages are in trouble today is that the couple has forgotten to be a couple. They've become so engrossed in being "mom" or "dad" or "the parents" that they don't make time to stay connected like they were before. Dating each other is vital to having a healthy marriage. Does that mean that the dates have to be expensive and the two of you get all dolled up or dressed to the nines? Nah. Dates can be simply going out for coffee, grabbing a bite to eat, sitting and talking without any interruptions. We had a great date just this past Saturday night. We went to a matinee movie, had dinner and then got coffee. We were home by 8:30 p.m. And yet, that date spoke volumes to our children about their parents and our marriage. We aim for at least one date a week.

Marriage should be a triangle with God as the center top point.

If you're married? How's it going this moment? Where is God in it? And where are you with God?

More to come on this subject. Stay tuned.

TURKEY!

Okay local church body. We need 125 more turkeys by this Sunday.

That's by this Sunday. Please do your part to help make this a blessed Thanksgiving for neighbors in our community.

C'mon....... TURKEYS!

On Being Silent.

It always strikes me as funny when someone says to me that I am being too silent. I received that message from two different individuals today. Interestingly enough? I'm not normally around these two people that often in the first place. This is my official position on being silent.

There are definitely times when I am silent on purpose. My thoughts or opinions on a particular issue are not necessarily warranted. Instead of just being another voice in the crowd, I choose to be silent. Now that does not mean that I do not care about the issue at hand, it just means that I probably would not have any thing new to add to the conversation. Or it could mean that what I might add could be taken a couple of ways. Instead of taking the chance on being misunderstood and then possibly taken out of context when quoted, I keep my mouth shut.

What really struck me though about one of the times this morning, I was being silent because I had been talking and then decided to listen instead. When I closed my mouth, opened my ears, and truly listened, I knew it was not necessary for me to say more. To do so would have been squashing the Spirit's voice telling me to stay silent.

There are times when it is okay for me to speak. There are other times when it is best for me to be silent. In my own relationship with the Lord, I'd rather stay silent because He has told me to, than to open my mouth and be being disobedient just to have a voice on an issue.

That's my official position on being silent.

Signed,
Sometimes silence is golden

It's Okay to Say "No"

Hubby and I have been doing a good amount of praying, studying, and trying to model what we believe God has laid out for us as parents. At times that does require saying "No" to others. Even if you do say, "Oh, Geez!" at the thought.

Brother G just received a phone call from someone. They were wanting Brother G and I to go out to dinner with them. They have free passes for dinner at a restaurant that is having their grand opening. We've been talking about this restaurant opening for months. Months. It is without a doubt one of our favorites. It is one of our fondest memories of the big city life. Brother G said, "No." I said, "Oh, Geez!" and then quickly came to my senses.

We're often told that in ministry it is a bad idea to say "no" when someone calls like that. I submit to you this is not always the case. Such as tonight.... Hubby (aka the boys' dad) has been working on dinner for the five of us for the last 30 minutes. He's grilling some chicken. Yum. The boys all know the intent is to sit down together, eat, and share as a family. What would it have said to them if we had suddenly said we were going out and they were staying home instead?

The restaurant will still be there tomorrow.. (hopefully.. this is small town Texas remember?) The individuals are more than just ministry associates. But our boys? They deserve quality time with their parents. They deserve our undivided attention.

It's okay to say "No"..... Your family might just thank you.

Signed,
A Thankful Wife and Mother

Pulled Up Street Signs

There are currently numerous pulled up street signs all over this highly secure gated community. I must confess... this perplexes the heck out of me. It also has caused me to think about the signs in our own lives.

When coming up to the end of our running buddies' street, there used to be a Stop sign. Now, it is hanging out in the grass as if someone has given permission to just turn one way or another without even stopping to look both directions. They live off one of the main roads that go through this highly secure gated community. It is full of twists and curves. Some of which are located right by their street. Just turning without looking both ways could result in an accident. Should there be a Stop sign or perhaps a Yield sign instead? Is a sign really even needed at all?

One sign that I think has been overlooked here in this highly secure gated community is in regards to the high population of deer. I, personally, think it would be greatly beneficial to have "Deer Crossing" signs in areas where the deer are known to hang out. Given where our home is, it is not uncommon to have 10 to 50 deer on either side of the street... at some point, they are going to want to cross the street. Can't tell you the number of times I've had to hit the breaks because of those precious deer. Oh, for those who don't know... if you hit a deer, you get a ticket. They even send an ambulance for the deer if it is hurt or killed. I know where the deer are for the most part because I live here. What about for those who are just visiting or are new? Yes, the deer are part of what draws many to this highly secure gated community and yet, they can be an utter nuisance. Or perhaps it us humans that are so....

Without signs, do we know which way to go or not? Do we know to slow down or that a sharp turn is coming up ahead? Do we know that 15 mph is the best speed instead of 40? Do we know that there is a school zone ahead? Do we realize the road we are on is a dead end?

While the pulled up street signs have perplexed the heck out of me.. they've also given me much food for thought:

• Do we have pulled up street signs in our own lives?
• Do we even really pay attention to most of the signs we see daily?
• Do we come to a complete stop when the sign says to or do we just yield or slide right on by?
• What signs need to put down firmly that aren't currently even there?

As always, your comments and prayer requests are welcome here. Let that be a sign that God loves you today wherever you are.


*This Just In via email: The signs were pulled up in masses due to a signage replacement program by the highly secure gated community. When will the new signs will be put into place? Now THAT remains to be seen. Until then, please drive with caution.

November 8, 2006 - 2007

I've been asked to reflect upon this day last year and my thoughts on what the Lord has taught me over the time in-between the dash until today. To start, I will share part of an email that numerous individuals received from me a year ago:

"Dear Ones, Today I walked outside the front door to get the mail. Oh how the warmth brushed my face and brought a smile to it with its touch. Upon returning to the door, I noticed a package in front of it, directly in front of it. The same door I had walked out of just moments before. The package was addressed to me. Upon opening it I found a box, a card and a certificate. Inside the box contained a heart, a cross and an anchor on a charm. The note read in part as follows: "A cross to remind us of why we do what we do, a heart to remind us to do all through His love and an anchor that grounds us when storms blow." Our God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He has no birth date. He has always been and will always be. So while the storm may appear to be blowing still in our grieving process, the anchor is secure. We are on solid ground. For while you all know how much I loved my daddy, it in no way compares to my Father."

As I sit here looking at that heart, cross, and anchor, I cannot help but smile and be filled with joy. Daddy passed on a week before his 66th birthday. The package arrived on November 8th - a week later. I've been asked to share specifically what I've learned about ministry since that day. It is from the perspective of a thankful heart that I share the following....

I've had some of the most difficult moments in ministry since that day. And yet, some of the most rewarding. The journey is one that keeps me on my knees and literally on my toes. I've been called to walk with the seen and the unseen and at times it has been surprising which ones are which. And yet, I know it comes as no surprise to Him. I've been in hotel rooms, on the side of the road, in the physical church building, beside a bed at hospitals, caskets.... just to name a few; wherever He has told me to go.

Through it all, I would have to say that the biggest blessings and lessons have honestly come from right where I am currently at this moment.... in the home... Our life is complicated and yet really very simple. Each of the individuals who live in this home are Christ-followers. Each are growing and seeking His face daily. We've cried tears, had the most serious of serious talks, laughed, hugged, and yes... as is expected, even at times, been angry. Yet, through it all we've learned to trust in Jesus.. God... even more.

Last night, hubby was talking to one of his aunts on the phone. As I sat there listening to him talk about daddy.... I couldn't help but smile so deeply in my soul.... I'm incredibly blessed to have had a Godly man like daddy. Yet, the one whom I was sitting on the bed beside of blows me away all the more. And honestly, it is all because of the heart, cross and the anchor that is God.... is Jesus Christ.

Signed,
A Most Thankful Child of God

Social Hazard: More Than a T

It is not a secret that the guys in our household enjoy wearing t-shirts with sayings on them. Austin came home just a bit ago. As he walked up to me to talk about his day so far, I couldn't help but notice which shirt he was wearing today. It says, "Social Hazard: I Will Not Conform." It references Romans 12:2, which says: "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will."

They purposefully wear t-shirts to make individuals think and/or to help start conversations or to make various statements. Yes, even hubby/Brother G with his Speed Racer shirt. I'll save that one for another time. That is the truth in writing...... lol

Austin was sitting on my right side last night when we were listening to his middle brother play in the band. I asked him if being at a football stadium reminded him of days back when he was in public school. His response to me was, "Nah. Not really. I would much rather do school the way I do it now."

Austin attends a home school academy which meets at our physical church building. This is his second year to do so. He has been home schooled now since the middle of his seventh grade year. He is in tenth grade this year. We took him out of the public school system we were a part of back then due to the system failing him. It was without question the right thing to do.

Our two other sons both attend public schools. They will continue to do so for now. We believe that as their parents, it is our God-given responsibility and privilege to do what is in the best interest of each child and our family as a whole. We believe that God is the Ultimate Teacher and, then, we as their parents follow. We do not believe that at any point in time are we to surrender their education strictly to others; whether it be the public system or a home school academy or a private school....... nor....... to the church alone.

For Austin in particular.... he will tell you that the most important events in history are the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And frankly, these parents are thankful that he will not conform; for to do so would go against every thing he lives and breathes by his own decision to do so.

His shirt is more than a T....... It is ALIVE.

How are you purposefully renewing your mind today? And are you being truly transformed?

And the Band Played On.

Tonight will go down in our books as another first. Trav's band was playing for the game between the only two middle schools in town. Since Brother G was at the physical church building for a meeting... I had the privilege of being the chauffeur for Austin, Parker, my mom, Hoover (aka her boyfriend) and of course Travis.

It was fairly chilly outside given the fact that we've had a bit of a cold front come through since last night. Given the fact that it is November, it is greatly welcomed. Travis loves playing the trumpet as I've shared before. He really enjoys being in the band especially since most of it takes place during school hours.

Our sons do not participate in sports other than the occasional game of golf or shooting hoops in front of our home or throwing the baseball or football with their brothers and/or friends. We believe that most organized sports takes too much time away from our family and what we are committed to in living life. It is a decision that our sons fully support.

As I sat there videotaping Travis off and on..... I couldn't help but watch his face and how he interacted with the other middle school students. He doesn't miss a beat that is really important in his life. And the band played on.

Huge Thank You!

I would personally like to thank Kim H. for substituting for me today for the parenting class. Although I hear she tried to get out of it when my hubby showed up to drop off the staples. Thank you Kim!

Can't wait to hear how things went in my absence. As always, God is good all the time.

Signed,
My Butt Stayed Home

PS: If you see me tonight and I walk the other direction. I'm avoiding hugging you. Trust me. You'll be glad.

HUGE PRAISE!

Briggs is being released from the hospital today! What a huge praise!

Definitely a miracle. Thank You, Lord.

Thank you to all who have prayed for Briggs and his family. Please continue to do so. One of the most powerful events I've witnessed was the 100+ men, women, and children who gathered one Saturday evening and prayed at the doors of Cooks Children's Hospital.

He was only given a couple of weeks to live. It just goes to show... No one truly knows except Him.

Psalm 118:8 says: "It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man."

Special Report: Golf Ministry. The Cranny.

Links Players International - Special Report
DALLAS - The regular meeting of the Board of Directors of Links Players International, held October 29-30, was anything but regular. Significant additions are leading to the expansion of the ministry in order to engage men and women to consider and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior, Lord, and Treasure.
Jeffrey Cranford named presidentTo begin, PGA professional Jeffrey Cranford, who played as a top club professional in the 2006 PGA Championship at Medinah Country Club, was named as the president of the organization, with the primary responsibility of presenting the vision of the ministry to golfers around the world.
Cranford has been an LPI board member since 2004, chosen primarily because of his long-time involvement as the head of Highways & Hedges, a regional ministry in a California’s famous golf hotspot, the Coachella Valley. Through Highways & Hedges, Cranford has led Bible studies at La Quinta Country Club, Bermuda Dunes Country Club, Rancho La Quinta Country Club, Desert Horizons Country Club, The Vintage Club, and—beginning in November—the Trilogy Golf Club. All of this, as well as passing on these studies to leaders he has discipled, is in keeping with the Highways & Hedges mission to bring the Good News of Christ to those behind the walls of country clubs.
Cranford will lead the expression of this mission to golfers in the United States and abroad. At present, this is being done through two principal messages: (1) the need to conduct spiritual due diligence, an idea supported by the most recent series of Links Players Bible studies, authored by Cranford and Links Players COO Jeff Hopper, and (2) the inspirational message that “You’re Hired!”, a charge ignited by the parable of the workers in Matthew 20:1-16. Cranford and Hopper have begun work on a book that will encapsulate these and other important themes in engaging influential men and women to impact the world for Christ.
New Board members namedJoining Cranford at Links Players are three of his board members, who were elected to the LPI Board of Directors. These include Greg Solis of La Quinta, California; George Garza of Indio, California; and Harold Andrews of Dana Point, California. Also added to the LPI Board of Directors was Dennis Darville, Vice-President for Ministry Development for Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina.
Mission-minded vision adoptedThese men, along with the standing Board of Directors of Links Players, approved an exciting new vision and mission for the ministry, one that emphasizes the missionary nature of the work being done regionally by Randy Wolff (hired in Dallas in January 2006) and Tom Gray (hired in Atlanta in August 2007). Read this new vision here.
Links Players will look to add regional directors in the Southwest, Northwest, North Central and Northeast regions of the United States. Seed money is being and will continue to be raised in order to bring these directors on board, enabling to begin their work as funding bases are developed to support them in their regions.
Media ministry expandsThe Links media ministries—which include www.linksplayers.com, the Links Daily Devotional, the Links Letter magazine, Links Players Bible studies, and Links resources such as the Course of Life and player testimony scorecard tracts—will be expanded to feature the teaching of Jeffrey Cranford and other Links Players national and regional leaders. In the beginning of 2008, audio and video resources will become increasingly available on the Links Players web site, offered as free downloads and on order as CDs and DVDs.
Because Highways & Hedges has been responsible for organizing outreaches at the PGA Tour’s Bob Hope Desert Classic and Buick Invitational, new Links Players resources will look to include DVDs from these events, as well as from a new event at the Nissan Open in Los Angeles.
Connections aboundWith the increase of regional activity and local Links Fellowships, the resources produced by Links Players will seek to meet the demands of these Fellowships for materials that promote spiritual growth among golfers.

Specific Prayer Request.

Parker was hurt today on the bus coming home from school. We have filed a complaint with the transportation department of our school district. We have fired off emails to the school principal and to his teachers concerning the matter.

Please pray that we handle this as Christian parents should. Please pray for all involved.... including the older kid who hurt our son.

Signed,
Parker's Mom

Monday Morning Confession

Having been born and raised in the church.... going to the physical church building on Sunday is a natural thing for me to do. Given the personal relationship I have with Jesus Christ... even more so.... Yesterday was not natural. It was beyond what my feeble mind can comprehend.

Ever since I've been teaching the parenting class (Bible study) on Tuesday mornings, I have been hit several times with various health issues. I'm currently having this one for about a week now. I woke up yesterday morning with the thought that I probably didn't need to go. In my quiet time with my Father I asked Him to show me clearly if I should go or not. He kept pushing me onwards. So, I went....

One thing I do often is challenge others in their thoughts & beliefs about worship. For those who know me in the flesh.. I know big surprise... I found myself walking into the sanctuary with a sense of unrest. Unrest? Yes, unrest. I thoroughly enjoying singing as a part of worship. There was no way I was going to sing. My throat feels as if hot coals are being prepared to cook some burgers and dogs. It is swollen like a pound of raw meat is in a ball getting ready to be pounded. So as I sat there preparing to worship... I prayed. My answer came rather quickly, "Be quiet with your mouth. Sing within your heart. Truly worship Me."

It was without question one of the most worshipful experiences I have ever had. I know I was questioned by some as to why I wasn't singing. Of course, when I wasn't hugging everyone it was sort of obvious. But what wasn't seen.....

I was moved beyond words. He continues to show me time and time again... Be still and know that I am God.

How do you need to be moved today? And will you... be still and know that He is God?

On The Side of the Road

Yesterday as Brother G and I were returning from the call out.... we kept having problems with the car. There were several times when we literally were on the side of the road for a few minutes. It was making a really loud noise and clearly the transmission was having issues. At one point, we stopped at the gas station closest to the back gate of the highly secure gated community to get transmission fluid. We finally made it and the car is parked safely in the driveway.

One thing that struck me: No one, at any of the times we were stopped along side of the road with the car hood up, stopped to offer help. I submit to you that is not how God wants us to go through life... Driving past others in need of help, so wrapped up in wherever we're going or what we will be doing that we think we don't have time to get involved. He wants us to be engage in the lives of others; to get out of our comfort zones and be willing to be the good Samaritan.

If you were on the side of the road, wouldn't you want someone to stop and help you?

Please keep praying for the individuals. There are little children involved too.