Necessary Losses... All Gain!

Yesterday was it...

We said goodbye to our old ways of doing worship services and Sunday morning Bible studies.

They were necessary losses. Gone are the days of services at 8:00, 9:25, and 10:50 a.m. with different worship styles. They have and will continued to be grieved as they should... And then we need to truly get about moving on....

The changes happening with our services are yet another example of how God is working in the hearts and minds of our leadership, members, attenders, - the whole body.

The G family can't wait to see who is yet to come..

Can't wait to see their faces and say, "Welcome."

There are times when we experience necessary losses that truly are all gain.

We walk with you knowing not how long we will stay and yet thankful for the journey thus far.

Life's Moments Continue...

Thank you for all the prayers and messages in regards to our EPR. While we would like to be with him in person - by his side..... life's moments continue.....

Yesterday morning as I drove the 25 minutes or so to get to the place where the retreat was being held... I just knew I was going to be receiving some kind of information during the time I was to be speaking/teaching.. As some say, "Camey's weird like that." (I'll take being weird like that....) What? I did not have a clue..

Sure enough.. I had said maybe two sentence when hubby started texting me about his brother. I told the women I simply had to stop right there and pray or I would not be able to move on. Meanwhile back in G-town, one of my prayer partners was walking. It came upon her to pray right then for me and for whatever was going on. That's what can happen when individuals know each other so deeply through honest communication, prayer, and are open to the Spirit's moving.

The title was "Overcoming Depression"..

The description - "Open dialogue on a subject facing so many Christians today. Time to stop sweeping it under the rug and be the church HE has called us to be."

I shared with the women there the story about how I was not scheduled to work the day that Janie called the physical church building to speak to me about the retreat. And yet there I was answering the phone. I had been called to fill in for another staff member. Janie had a list of things she knew I could speak/teach on.. but what she really wanted to know was could... would I do depression. Funny enough? Depression is in part what brought us to G-town in 2005. My mother has been diagnosed with clinical depression since I was a little girl. She had been crying out to the Lord for help. She could no longer live with daddy by herself due to his declining health and ultimate passing on. Depression does not just affect the person who is depressed. It affects all they are in contact with in one form or another.

It was clear that the Spirit was moving amongst us. Women who had never said to anyone that they suffered from it currently or in the past or a family member did were raising their hands. Church staff members from all over were saying, "Yes. I'm depressed. I've been too afraid to let others know. I'm a Christian. I'm supposed to be happy all the time." I'm so grateful that the dialogue was indeed open. It was in fact raw and beyond real. And I could feel the prayers of all whom had been praying and were praying. "Happy all the time?" Can you show me in His Word where it says that please?? Anyone??

One thing that I shared about my mother was that even though she does indeed take medication for it.. she also prays and reads her Bible every single morning. That is just as vitally a part of her treatment as any pill she might ever take... or not.. She belongs to the Lord. And He does take care of her.... even if we do not always understand how that all works.

Like I told the women, when I speak/teach... I do not do all the talking... I want and expect those with me to participate. That is a part of hearing, learning, taking it all in, absorbing it so that it can take residence and then be lived out... poured out... I also shared one other important fact at the end of our time together....

I am an exceedingly shy person. Camey... the person is shy.... What anyone reads, hears, and/or sees is not me... on my own... it is the Lord at work in and through me. The Spirit alive and breathing as one dear woman said to me afterwards. Wow.... Talk about being speechless at that... It dumbfounds me still...

This morning... I shared with my mom where I had been and what I had spoken and taught on. As she laid in her bed .... tears filled her eyes and started rolling down her checks. The subject was not overcoming depression.. as in ten steps and poof it's gone. As in snapping ones fingers. It was in overcoming the stigmatism that still exists today all these years later in the church...

People = church.

Part of being the church HE has called us to be is to take off those blasted masks.

For underneath them is beauty amongst the ashes.

And if HE can see every single part of us and loves us enough for Calvary....

Long suffering should not be some thing we Christians try to deny and sweep under the rug.

Life's moment continue... Are you hungry for Him this moment?

Are you crying out to Him and knowing it is only in Him that you can go on?

That does not make you weaker... It makes you strong in His strength.. No matter what the world says.

EPR Update.

Hubby's brother David has been transported to Germany. He will remain there until they determine he can be moved to Bethesda here in the states.

His wife was not notified until hours later due to being on her way to the states from Japan to spend time with her mother. She will join not be able to be with him until he gets to Bethesda.

He was 3 feet away when the bomb went off. Needless to say, he is in serious condition but we're thankful he is alive and no one else was injured or killed.

Please keep praying for all involved. Not just for David, Nancy, and our family but for all involved.

Thank you.

Emergency Prayer Request...

Hubby's brother David was injured in an explosion and is listed in serious condition in Baghdad.

Please pray for him, his wife, and all of our family and those close to him...

Please pray for his relationship with God first and foremost.

Thank you.


Note: Yes, I received word from hubby about this while speaking on Depression at the retreat this morning.

Prayer Requets.

Please pray for the following.. They are in no particular order:

1) Mary - she is talking about her journey with God. Talk about joy in ones voice. (Jack's grandma)

2) Joe & family - he is in ICU currently after having a setback. (not local)

3) Cassandra - her overall life.

4) Those who have walked in today needing assistance in whatever ways. May their Real Help come from above.

5) Those who are participating in the retreat tonight and tomorrow in another town close by. May they hear the words the speakers have to say with open ears as well as hearts.

You, dear reader, have been prayed for wherever you are this moment.

All Are Welcome Here...

We just had a man come straight from jail to the physical church building this morning.

All are welcome here... (Two straight from jail within two weeks)

Please pray for him... His name is John. And we will definitely be following through.

Thank you.

Depression.

This Saturday, I have the incredible privilege of being a breakout speaker/teacher for a retreat.

The subject is Depression. The description is: Open dialogue on a subject facing so many Christians today. Time to stop sweeping it under the rug and be the church HE has called us to be.

I'd greatly appreciate your input... thoughts? stories?

Help me help others...

Feel free to leave a comment here or email me directly at cameybelieves@charter.net

Reflections. Looking Ahead.

Reflections:

Yesterday was an amazing day! Individuals and their lives being changed. His Word was taught, caught, and lived out... WORSHIP was alive...

One said she would never come to a church... she did Thursday night. She gave her life to Christ over the weekend! WHOA!

Pastor Jackson was seen taking his shirt off during the service. Totally cracked me up. I knew he had to have had his timing off. He did.... Fortunately, he had on his "dress" shirt underneath his DNow. It is okay to laugh church. Really.. it is...

Derrick rocked. Shelley brought it home. DNow has truly just gotten started.

I joined the Facebook world in yet another way to connect and network. HT to Bryan and Heather!

Hubby and I had a date last night. We did not even leave home. Cheap and yet priceless.

Looking Ahead:

This week is going to be wild to say the least..... More to come on that later...

Saturday I'm teaching/speaking on Depression at a retreat. Time slot: an hour.

Any thoughts? Comment or email me at cameybelieves@charter.net

Wii fun. Food. Silent Worship. Closet.

Wii fun:

The students had an incredible time playing the Wii during the rec portion of DNow yesterday. The Attic looked even cooler than usual with all the systems set up. It was a blast watching all the students hanging out and letting loose.

Food:

1,200 cans were collected by the students by going around their host home neighborhoods.

1,200 cans + $150.00 cash. Wow.

UPDATE: Correction... 1,376 cans + 119.?? cash. WHOA!

Silent Worship:

It began by having silence in the ride over to the physical church building from their host homes. As they entered the building... shoes came off.. again no talking... just silence.

100 students mind you... 100 plus all the leaders, other adults... Pastor Jackson..

Linc and the praise band were awesome and led us in a powerful time.

Ryan let it all out in his short sermon.

It is clear that He is moving among the students.. Keep praying.

Closet:

I had the incredible blessing of hanging out with the seniors from 4:30 to 11:00 p.m. During one on one time - one of the girls and my self went in to a closet to talk.

We had clothes hanging down on us. Suitcases around us. And yet, were still able to talk.. Really talk. And of course to pray.

The closet serves as a wonderful reminder that even though we may have things hanging down on us... going on around us.... He is there in the midst of it all.

And there is amazing grace found through Him alone.

Do you know His amazing grace?

From the desk..

There's piano music playing again...

that's what happens when you've got a Wee school around the corner from your desk..

Nap time anyone? lol

our Wee director is awesome! the teachers are too. and don't even get me started about those kiddos.

i've met several other really cool people today. prayed for them too...

some are leaders for DNow this weekend.

two others were here to check out our facilities. their body is growing. they were from the big city and with a different denomination even.... I love that...

this has been a freaky Friday... why?

SNOW!!!!

that's just merely icing on the cake. and i am grateful.

What do you see or hear from your desk?

Questions Answered.

Question: Pastor Richard Jackson as in pastor emeritus of a megachurch in Phoenix?

Answer: Yes. That Richard Jackson.

Question: What is my email address again?

Answer: cameybelieves@charter.net

As always, you are free to email with prayer requests and/or to update me on what is happening in your neck of the woods and/or with comments.

IT'S HAPPENiNG NOW!

The following are in no particular order:

1) It is in the air! You can taste it... IT is better than Starbucks. Better than hot fresh bread.

2) Shelley, Ryan and Cari are amazing! Flat out amazing... DNow (Discipleship Now) has been bathed in prayer and is birthing this weekend. Can't wait to see what happens in the lives of all those connected.. whether students, leaders, host homes, parents....

3) It is going to be contagious!

4) Pastor (Richard) Jackson will be with this Sunday officially as our interim pastor. HE is using him to challenge the fool out of our body. Bring it on!

5) Only two more Sundays of three services! Wonder how long that will last?

6) SOUPer Bowl Sunday - praying for those canned goods to come in like touchdown passes. Remember it's not just a can of corn - it is food for the hungry. Lets take care of our neighbors shall we?

7) One service on SOUPer Sunday... Can't wait to experience the whole body coming together! We're going to get really close that morning....

8) David, Andrew, and several others are letting their creative juices flow! Bring it on guys!

9) Prayers are being answered.... The above is proof! Changes can be good if HE is the reason.

10) No one rocks like HE does! He is the solid rock. The foundation. The Creator! It is all about Him!

And last.... but not least... you dear reader have been lifted up in prayer this morning wherever you may be this moment.

Do I Look Tired?

So, how does a mother know when her son thinks she looks tired?

He brings her an energy drink.

Ahhhhh.. the benefits of having Austin go to school where I work.

Life is funny.

Wednesday Night Reflection

Last night I was asked a question. A simple question really but one that reflects just a tad of what is happening with our local church body....

"Camey? Why aren't you in the foyer on Wednesday nights?" The answer? Well, last semester helped make this semester happen. Prayers are being answered all over the place and frankly it is blowing my mind. If I sound too pumped at this time of the morning, well.... I simply cannot help it.

Being in the foyer on Wednesday nights last semester was a part of being an outreach director for our children's ministry. It was also part of being a woman minister. More counseling took place in that foyer than I ever care to really share. Still does actually... And I am met with countless gratitude.

As I was getting things ready for the class, in they started walking. The class doubled from last Wednesday night. It doubled. The individuals bringing others with them are ones whom I first met last semester in the foyer. One just a month ago. She brought two others with her. More are expected this next Wednesday night... Please do not lose sight of the most important fact here... HE is at work in their lives. They are being drawn closer to Him.

Part of any topic specific class that I teach or co-teach always is brought back to that person's relationship with Him. Parenting is not about raising happy children who turn out to have high paying jobs and live in million dollar mansions. Please do not misunderstand me here... The best thing any parent can ever do for their child is point them to Him. To be a reflection of Him in their moments... That can only happen if He is alive in the parent's own life.

Wednesday nights rock! And I am honored to walk along side of these individuals.

I am rejoicing with hands held high... He takes individuals just as they are. And they are coming!

Picture. Picture.

His Name is Pat.

He is 78 years-old.

This is him waiting for the volleyball to come on his side of the court.

He inspires the heck out of those watching him.

There's This Woman...

We spent some time together earlier this evening. I cannot go into details...

Please join me in carrying her to Him.

Thank you.

Picture the Moments

Pictures taken in east Texas.. All by Parker except one.

Overwhelming Gratitude.

The last couple of weeks have been totally intense. There are things happening that words cannot do justice to. Overwhelming gratitude.

Today starts the Bible study on marriage that I am teaching. As a pastor's wife and woman minister, it is such a gift to be able to walk along side of other women and encourage them as HE continues to do so me. As Brother G stated in his sermon Sunday night.... our marriage is stronger now than it has ever been before. That only comes from Him... the triangle... God at the top - each of us in our relationship with Him and then together. God first, family, then the church..... Overwhelming gratitude...

Last Tuesday morning I said that marriage can be fulfilling and exciting. There is no doubt that with Him that is truly possible. For our real completion is found in Him and not our spouse. When we learn that.... remember that... take it to the very depths of our beings... it becomes all the more evident and real. For it is He who made us and knit us together in our mother's womb. It is He who gives us each breath.

I am met with overwhelming gratitude at His love, mercy, compassion, forgiveness, and the list definitely goes on and on.

And I am beyond thankful to be married to a man who loves Him more than me.

I encourage you to look deep into your own moments...

Where do you need to have overwhelming gratitude at how He is working?

Changing Roles: The Eye Has It.

My mother had her first eye surgery this morning in the big city. Her boyfriend came to pick the two of us up at 6:45 a.m. He insisted on driving. After having been gone all of yesterday, that truly was fine with me.

Mom and I went over all her paperwork as we waited for the nurse to call her back. There's always more paperwork to fill out after you get there... No matter what they say it seems.. Since she couldn't see to read it herself, I had to read it for her. Hoover sat quietly listening to me read to my mom. This has been her first real medical procedure since becoming a widow... single.... with a serious boyfriend. The lines are blurry between the moments in such cases. Being her medical representative is honestly stranger than it was being dad's. It is still a privilege and one that I take seriously.

Hoover and I spent some quality time talking while mom was having her surgery. He is a very kind man. And I am thankful that he cares for my mom like he does. Does it make for some strange times given our living arrangement? Absolutely.... Yet, I have no doubt there are reasons for it all. lol

When she was in recovery - I was called back. Hoover had to stay in the waiting room. Love is a hard thing at times. The nurse taking care of her came to understand quickly mine and mom's roles. It is necessary to talk very direct with my mom. That is a part of being her caregiver... Show compassion yes.... Still be very direct. It is possible with His help.

The nurse and I agreed that it would be best for mom to not come home for a few hours. She is currently at Hoover's house. Travman has a bit of a bug and it was decided to wait for mom to come home tonight instead. Hoover asked me if I wanted to come over too. And while there is a part of me that says as my role as her caregiver ... that I should be there... And yet....

Part of being a caregiver... of truly loving someone is coming to grips with doing what is truly best for them. That today.... was her going to his house instead of to our home. I'm only 5 minutes away tops in case of an emergency. Caregivers come in many forms after all.... and sometimes that means recognizing when a new caregiver has been added to the team.

Yes, I know there are those who will say, "Camey? You should have insisted she come home and not to his house. You're shirking your responsibilities." My responsibilities include assessing the best possible care for all involved. That has been done with due diligence.

Thank you for your continued prayers!

Praise & Request

Praise:

Yesterday was a wonderful day in east Texas! Pics to come....

Request:

Please pray for us as my mom has eye surgery this morning.

Thank you!

Saturday Funnies.

Parker's response to me about his snack:

"It takes like it expired. It has a bad after taste."

Fortunately for him... he was talking about store bought pudding.

*This Just In.... Parker and I just made cookies. His response - "They're perfect."

Brother G gets yelled at:

Brother G goes to the car wash after taking Austin to work... Suddenly he hears...

"HEY? ARE YOU FEELING BETTER?" as a woman starts to drive off.

Fortunately for him... she was yelling at him out of concern because he's been sicky.

This has been brought to you by: Heylaughterisworththesmile

Lifestyle Missionaries.

There's this woman that I've had the incredible privilege of knowing for a couple of years now. Yesterday, she had some news to deliver. This news was answers to prayers prayed for her and her husband some time ago now and yet will still continue in prayer and praise. Throughout our conversation, it reminded me all the more about being lifestyle missionaries.

Brother G and I were just discussing about how this is hardly thought of any more... In our compartmentalized world, we have put things into boxes - into time slots if you will. This being for that day and hour but not to overlap with this other area of our lives. Lifestyle missionaries..

One day this week I was asked about our traveling to east Texas for Brother G to preach. The individual did not understand how he could do such a thing or how our family could go with him. That our place is with the local church body.... only with this particular body. And while there is a part of human nature that makes one feel good about that for a moment... the moment flees when really thinking about it deeper.

Yes, Brother G and I are in vocational ministry.... but our mission is not only for one particular group of individuals who gather together at certain hours on given days. At times it does mean traveling to other places and sharing His Good News there. Being missionaries in foreign places does not always mean traveling overseas.

Does it make for a wild and crazy life? Yes... And frankly, we would have it no other way.

Our prayer is that more would consider what being lifestyle missionaries is truly about....

For His Word... His kingdom is not about just one day a week in one place.

Where is life taking you today? This moment? And who will you meet? Who will they see?

If His church is truly being His.... we should all be lifestyle missionaries.

Piano Music. Songs of Joy.

Sitting here at the desk, I can hear piano music playing in our Wee school.

At the moment, I find myself with songs of joy for seeing, hearing, smelling and tasting Him.

For answers to prayers prayed long ago and some as new as yesterday...

Who writes the music of your moments?

Her Name is Elisha.

What happened with her last night...

The Light on the hill...

She came straight there last night from jail. Yes... from jail.

Because of the Light on the hill. The Light that can be seen all over...

Elisha's coming is clear evidence... The sign is right...

God moving ahead!

And I am at a real loss for written words... the tears still flow even thinking about it.


Her coming was just a part of what happened last night. Yes, on a Wednesday night....

Thank You Lord for Elisha and Wednesday nights!

Light on the Hill.

What took place at our local physical church building last night still has me at a loss for written words...

Please stay tuned.. or if you're a local - I'll be thrilled to share with you in person or via the phone.

"Light on the hill."

At A Loss for Words.

What an unbelievable night! From start to finish... Unbelievable....

I'm at a loss for words.

Stay tuned....

Nickels. Dimes. Quarters.

Austin and I just returned from the bank. He had a deposit to make into his savings account, a certificate to show he had completed an on-line smart credit course, and had some loose change he wanted to get out of his way. He thought there was around $10.00. He was wrong.

It amounted to $37.58

Now to some that may be pocket change. To others that might be the world...

It definitely was a lesson for Austin and his mother on nickels, dimes, and quarters.

He now has been issued the challenge to do some thing for someone else with that money.

What are nickels, dimes, and quarters really worth to you?

High Heels. Raspberries.

High Heels:

This morning as I reflect back upon yesterday... I have to praise the Lord for high heels. The women's ministry of our local church body had its kick-off for this semester's offerings. As a part of my visual aid for the marriage class that I am teaching.. I was dressed in a skirt and had all of my hair down straight. Skirts for me almost always mean high heels. I mean high, high heels.

The women were given the opportunity to come to each table and sign up for whichever offering best suited their needs or want. I saw her walking towards me and began to smile. I had not seen this friend in a few months. She introduced the woman that was with her and began to share with her about my story..... She especially pointed out the fact that I was wearing high heels. The woman started rubbing her arms because she had the shivers... She then explained to me..

She had a child that had a form of muscular dystrophy. He died 5 years ago.. In May of 2008, it will be 5 years since I was completely healed. She welled up with tears at the fact that not everyone who has a form of muscular dystrophy dies. And I have never been so thankful to be wearing high heels on a Tuesday morning. And yes, I have the reputation of even running in them in the parking lot racing Parker to the van.

Raspberries:

Tonight starts the parenting class that Brother G and I are teaching. So as a part of studying up on the subject of parenting again... I did what I thought would yield the best research for this time of the day..

I walked into their room... went over to their bunk beds. Sat on the lowest bunk and gave Parker raspberries on his back to wake him up. Laughter is a great way to wake that kid up!

Praise You oh Lord for the gift of high heels and raspberries!

Speaking of Sticky Notes.

Please pray for Bill. He is a co-worker of Inez.

Thank you!

Prediction #2 Lives!

On January 1st, I posted Predictions for 08

Last night the leadership for our local church body gathered together for an in-depth look at our past, present and future. It was one of the best gatherings Brother G and I have been a part of during our time here.

Each person was given a sticky note, an agenda, and told to find a seat that fit their leadership position. The room was filled with chairs set up in circles with tags designating positions. Each circle had at least one position from all the various groups. That's how unity can truly start to take place!

There was opportunity for real discussion to take place. Heartfelt discussion... Passion-filled! It is evident that real change is taking place. Not starting six months from now.. or next year.. but it is happening now. Sunday will definitely show that! If you're a local.... you will not want to miss this Sunday.

Brother G and I encourage our local church body to continue to pray and seek His guidance! We encourage each person to ask God how you can be an active part of what is happening. Where you need to get involved.... and then for you to do it! Can't wait to hear testimonies of how God grows and stretches and lives are truly impacted for His kingdom alone.

And we ask that you continue to pray for us as individuals and as a family. We will be in east Texas again this Sunday.

Changes are happening. God is stretching us like never before.

Prediction #2 lives because He does!!

Prayer Requests. RQM.

Prayer Requests:

1) Joe, Sandy & family - not local

2) Laura - back in the hospital

3) MG - double knee surgery

4) B family - not local

5) C family - not local

6) Local church body as transition continues

7) The church body where we were yesterday - not local

8) Woman looking for a place to stay.

RQM:

Really quiet moments are nice.

Thank You..

Thank you to all who have said you will be praying for Brother G and our family today.

And we're praying for each of you, wherever you may be found this moment!

Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Yesterday I had several conversations throughout the day that really struck me...

One man, as he was preparing to leave the physical church building, came to the desk to turn in his tag to me. His wife was with him and stories started flying. This man and his wife knew my daddy. They loved him deeply. No question, he loved them as well. The man said to me, "You know Camey? Until your daddy came along, I do not think anyone but my wife knew what my name was. Your daddy made a point to call me by name every single time he saw me." The man cried while standing there at my desk.

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name....

There was this couple. It was their first time to bring their children to our Wee School. They were crying... the man and woman both... As they were leaving the first time, I told them I would be praying for them throughout the day. They both thanked me... They walked out of the door with the look like they had just lost their best friends.

When they returned, and were signing in, I ask them how had their day gone. They both said it was one of the hardest days in their lives. They have never left their children anywhere before. They are wanting them to have social interaction and thought this one of the best ways to do so. The wife took my hand and said, "Thank you for praying. Please keep doing so. We need it." She then told me their names... and that of their children. She told me they looked forward to seeing me each Thursday and Friday.. (when I'm at the receptionist desk)

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.

Mid-afternoon or so an elderly woman called. I have a certain way I answer the phone... So she said, "Camey? I want to let you know they're releasing me from the hospital. They do not know what happened. Further tests are needed." She then thanked me for praying her even though I can't recall ever meeting her face to face before.

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.

One of the publicity individuals came in to the physical church building. She was putting out publications throughout the building.. especially in the women's restrooms. As she walked past my desk.. I asked if I could have one. There have been several calls lately about all that is happening this semester. So, I wanted the newest and freshest info. I could not recall ever meeting this woman before so I introduced myself to her... Her response truly caught me off guard.. "OOOOOOOHHHHH!!!! YOU'RE CAMEY!" She then went on to explain about having seen my name as one of the Women's Ministry Bible study teachers last semester and then for the one starting this next week. And then, also, that Brother G and I are teaching a class together on Wednesdays night.

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.

Another couple was talking with me about the church body where Brother G preached last Sunday. They talked about the fact that it is such a smaller body that individuals truly know each other by name including that of their grandmother, aunts, cousins, and animals.

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.....

Several of the older women in our church body were quite upset by one of our new security measures. They said to me, "But Camey? I'm not a visitor. I'm a member. You know me." By afternoon the tags had been changed....

There is something to be said for knowing some one's name. For having others know your name.... As long as it is kept in check - nothing wrong with it.

My question to you today is this:

If only one could know your name, who would you want that one to be?


My answer: God.

Prayer Request

Please pray for G.E. of Arlington, Tx. She is having a biopsy done this coming Tuesday the 8th. Ms. Gloria asked that we pray for peace for her and her family, that God grant wisdom to the doctors and that the area of concern is benign. She is very optimistic and thinks that the doctors are erring on the far side of caution.

Early Morning Praises!

As I sit here reflecting over the past few days and looking toward the days ahead.... Praises are on my lips and through every vein in my body.

Last night a group of individuals came together to give praise for prayers answered. Testimonies were shared, Scripture was read, audible voices were raises even without a musical instrument. As we got in to small groups to pray.... Brother G & I were prepared to be just us two as we had last week. A certain couple insisted on joining us. Their prayers being humbling and refreshing. There was not a dry eye...

Brother G and I are the only ones awake. He is currently working on one of his two sermons for Sunday to deliver in East Texas. Of course that will mean more traveling. And while we will no doubt miss our local body here while away.... it is again answer to prayers prayed. How can my eyes stay dry with the very thought of how He answers and stretches and provides opportunities to be active in His service?

As I start preparing for the Marriage class on Tuesdays, the parenting class on Wednesdays, and a break out session for a retreat at the end of the month.... I am met with gratitude beyond what if said truly out loud would make any sense.

As we were walking out of the worship center last night, Randal laid something on our hearts. Nothing our local church body has never known. And yet, no doubt is entirely possible only because of God. I cannot wait to see all He has planned!

You, Oh Lord, are the sun rising in the morning.
It setting in the night.
And every cloud and ray of light that beams from the sky.
Your Love is like no other.
Your mercy and grace are unending.
And it is beyond me how You paint the pictures that You do on this canvas called life.
Early morning praises belong only to You.

New Security Measures

New Security Measures:

Every individual who comes to the physical church building must sign in at the receptionist's desk first.

Let me repeat... Every individual.

We realize this will, and already has, ruffled a few feathers.

Please keep in mind these security measures are here for reasons.

Thank you for your advanced cooperation.

*UPDATE: For those upset with the "visitor" tags.. they've now been changed. Thank you Stephanie!

Prayer Requests

1) The Askew family - son is having heart surgery today. UPDATE: Out of surgery. Hopefully will be released on Friday.

2) Joe & family - not local

3) Buffaloe family - not local

Thank you.

That's Tradition for Ya.

Our youngest son, Parker, enlightened us on Sunday morning. In keeping with being thankful for our children's honesty, I thought I would share about our conversation.

It seems that when Parker realized there were hymnals at the place we were at.. He said, "Oh, this is a hymnal church. I do not know many hymns you know." I looked at him puzzled and then it dawned on me..

Parker has only known "contemporary worship"... which means that the only way hymns are sung is via words plastered up on big screens with a more jazzed up tune than how they were originally written. The exception of course being songs attached with Easter or Christmas.

He is our only son, out of the three, who has been raised this way. Looking back over the time line of his life... it made total sense that this took place. We've been a part of two church bodies - each that had only one set time for student (grades 7 through 12) Bible study or Sunday School as it was once called by the time Parker was old enough to really start remembering. So, with only one time for our other sons to attend, came the automatic decision of being a part of the contemporary worship service.

So, Parker has the tradition of contemporary worship. Being at a "hymnal only" service was completely out of his comfort zone. He was still able to worship after the first few minutes..

What also struck us funny.... When the men began to gather up front for the offering time.. Parker leaned over to me and said, "Wow! That was fast." I then reminded him that his dad had not preached yet... so, therefore, the service was not over. Part of his tradition the last two plus years has been the offering being taken at the end of the service. I informed him that not every church body does it that way. Clearly, messing with his tradition, caused him to lose sight of other important factors.. such as hearing God's Word proclaimed from the pulpit.

That's tradition for ya.

What are a part of your traditions?

Examine them... Ask God to reveal how they might keep you from truly worshipping Him.

Local Body - Praise Time!

Last Thursday night we were called to prayer as a body... Prayers were heard & answered.

Join us tonight (Jan 3rd) at 7:00 p.m. in the worship center to give PRAISE to God.

Hope to see you there!

Power Source. Singing Saints.

Power Source:

This morning found us without power in parts of the highly secure gated community. Yes, those type of things really do happen here too... Apparently what our guys, and this hubby and wife needed was just some serious down time. We were all so cold (hey, our version of cold for Texas) that we climbed in our bed and snuggled. We dozed off and on or talked about things. Then, stomachs started rumbling...

One thing about an all electric house? When the power is out... No cooking going on even if there are some amazing left-overs from New Years. Not even the microwave can pop that all important corn that Travman so enjoys. So, out to lunch the five of us went... looking like we had just rolled out of bed.. naturally... because, well? We had....

Singing Saints:

As we were walking in to one of our favorite pizza joints... there came that white van our family knows so well... The guys all said, "Ut oh! Better get in quick before all the pizza is gone." Sure enough... they started piling in all dressed in red. Way too cute. Them... not us mind you...

Hugs and conversations were had. As we were leaving, they told me I needed to come with them on their next stop... I had on a red shirt also. Brother G lovingly and graciously shared with them that no they really did not want me to join their singing group... not even for one song. Laughter was abundant!

Mixed in with the Saints also came in jamming Ray... He sat at the table next to us. We could not help but talk about all the noise Ray's electric guitar makes during our local body's contemporary service. We also had to laugh about how much fun we've all been having playing the Wii.. According to Ray, he is a pro golfer now!

The power just came back on... No doubt the living room is a bowling alley now.

The Source of Real Power never was turned off. And those Singing Saints sure can eat... especially one named Ginny...

Update on Laura.

This is from Laura's sister today:

My sister is now home. She has a pic line that her doctor inserted in her arm that she will hook up IV antibiotics to at home for 1 1/2 hours each day. She will possibly do this for 6 weeks. She will see her doctor once a week for labs. She is doing good! Thank you all again for thinking of and praying for her.

Predictions for 08

Here are my personal predictions for 08:

1) God is God!

2) Changes will happen. God will stretch us like never before. Too much to list..

3) All 3 of our sons will be taller than their mom. (the youngest is nine remember? the other two already are.)

4) Austin might actually get his permit. And this will torment his dad, brothers, grandma... His mother, however, will remain exceedingly calm.

5) My mother will marry her boyfriend.

*Disclaimer: These are merely predictions. #1 is definitely the given of the 5.

UPDATE: #1 and #2 are givens! And no.... I do not predict that Brother G will shave off his goatee. His wife likes it..

Called to Prayer. HE Answered!

Our local church body was called to prayer last Thursday night.

HE answered!

It goes to show... When we humble ourselves before Him....

He will lift us up out of the pit we so often put ourselves in!

THANK YOU LORD!

The Word is Alive.. Remember Me.

The Word is Alive.... I often say that. Right now, sitting here, thinking back through the day.. it applies more so than ever. What a day!

This morning was odd. Brother G and Austin normally leave the house at 7:00 a.m. Mom, the younger boys and myself, normally not until 8:45. Yet, this morning.. here we all were... until 10:00 a.m. since we were going to be with a different body of believers. It took us 30 minutes to travel where we were going.. Brother G has preached there several times before. I knew today was going to be completely different though... It was through and through..

Brother G called married men out this morning. Stepped on toes majorly. And several men came up to him afterwards and said how much they needed that. Individuals were crying in the pews. And I kept hearing, "Camey? You've got yourself a Preacher Man!" I'll leave it at that for the moment....

On the way back to the house... An old friend of Austin's, from where we used to live, rang. After downing some lunch.. Austin and I headed to the friend's home.. an hour and a half away. I won't go into great detail except to say... Please pray for this family. Austin is spending the night there tonight. We'll be picking him back up in the morning. Please pray for this family... for their teenage son.

As soon as I drove in the driveway... it was time for Brother G and I to head back to the physical church building where we were at this morning. We were pleasantly surprised at the attendance tonight... At least 3/4 of the individuals who were there this morning were back tonight. They were walking up to Brother G still talking about his sermon this morning.. about stepping on their toes... about being thankful Brother G and I were back tonight. Then it happened...

Brother G preached the best sermon he has ever preached that I have heard. In fact, it was not only his best sermon... it was the best sermon on this particular text I've ever heard.. People were crying.. One woman.. young woman said to me afterwards, "I don't normally cry. He has made me cry both times today." A couple of individuals came up to him.... please pray for them as they take his counsel to heart.

What my husband preached today would not mean a hill of beans if HE were not I AM.

Remember ME? I AM....... I AM the reason for breath.. for life.. for every moment.

What is Necessary to Worship?

Yesterday, Travman and I were discussing some of the details of the next three weeks. One thing that struck me was the fact that all three of our sons have only known two bodies as their home church. The one here locally and the one that hubby and I had been at all but 6 months of our married lives. Catch this.... 15 years - from 1990 to May 2005.... It was at that physical building where all three sons went from the nursery to the baptismal waters as a result of a choice and really started growing in their relationships with God/Christ. And yet, this local church body is where Austin received his calling and all three boys have truly dived in with their service because of God's love for them and theirs for Him. History... just some of it to say the least...

Trav made a comment about "not being at church" the next three weeks. About how it might be difficult for him to truly worship in unknown places. His honesty - I greatly appreciate. It reminded me of something God taught me years ago....

What is necessary to worship is not a familiar building... or group of people... at least that's not the way God truly intended for it be I believe. For it was.... how could anyone worship when those doors are closed? When that group of people are a part for days?

When I was home bound... I could not go to the physical building. Did that mean I was unable to worship? No.... not all. And as in this current time in our lives.... worship can take place wherever we go.... are and no doubt it will....

God is not in a room with a lock and key and the times of entry posted on the door.


What is necessary to Worship? Truly worship?

Her Name is Amber. Changes.

Her Name is Amber:

She was our server tonight at dinner.

Please pray for her to have a closer walk with God.

And also in regards to school.

She had a wonderful smile and was a fantastic server!

Change:

Change can be good.

I've been told all the dots made it hard to read at times.

Change can be fun!

Laughing in Lingerie.

Oh my. There are times when laughing is all one can simply do.

Here's the scene:

I was waiting for a woman who was in the dressing room of a local clothing store. I was her chauffeur for her shopping adventure.

Ventured around the store.... the whole entire store mind you..... and then...

When I was standing in the middle of the lingerie section in between naughty and nice...

I saw them.

Church members.

It's okay people. Really. It is.....

Certain Individuals.

This morning I am found with thoughts of certain individuals. Please excuse me if I appear to ramble some... If you see yourself.... know you are deeply loved.

There's this woman. I had the pleasure of sitting under her teaching and leadership. She can be blamed for the chocolate in my Bible study classes. We have since become prayer partners and sweet sisters in Christ. Her family is going through such an incredibly difficult time. The health of several family members is not good. Carrying to Jesus....

There's a guy who is like my little brother. If I had a little brother that is... He cracks me up and our time spent talking with each other is always filled with laughter even if the subject may be unpleasant. His wife is quickly becoming just as precious to me. It is a pleasure to carry each and their marriage to Jesus.

There's a certain confidante who is only an email, phone call, or drive away. His friendship is truly beyond words. Our relationship with him has gotten sweeter over the years. And in the last few months, even more tender. Carrying this man to Jesus is like taking a very piece of our own being.

There's this man.... He loves a woman who is not always easy to love. He cries out for wisdom that only God can give him in regards to this woman. This woman can make him smile, has made him cry, and has frustrated the heck out of him at times. And yet, he loves her more today than yesterday and not as much as tomorrow. And without question, all the same can be said about him in her eyes. Carrying him to Jesus is most definitely a privilege and responsibility that comes with marriage. And I would not miss one moment with him. Life is truly a journey that I am thankful to be on with him.

Certain individuals. Thank You Lord for each of these....

Trouble. The Mayor. A Few Good Men.

Part of why I enjoy working Fridays at the physical church building is because of Trouble and The Mayor.. They always come by the desk before they walk out the doors. Well, they kind of have to given where the desk is.. but... they would make the trip any way.. We sort of love each other.

They come on Friday mornings to help get things ready for Sunday morning and/or for things that are needing to be mailed out. They both amaze the heck out of me honestly. Trouble is in her 80's; The Mayor - her 90's. And at times, can run circles around those watching them or thinking they might need help. Sure, there's things they physically can't do any longer.. But what they can do.. they definitely do.

Trouble and The Mayor worked this morning with Brother G and our three sons. I knew when it was time for them (Trouble and The Mayor) to leave - they would have some stories to tell.. It seems that Trouble wanted to give Austin a cup of coffee to drink. Austin knows his daddy, aka Brother G, does not allow him to drink coffee. She brought him a cup any way.. Austin would not drink it. Trouble, at first, thought Brother G was being a hard nose about it. But, by the time she and I finished talking about why Brother G has the position on Austin drinking coffee that he does - well, she was seeing it more clearly. And she definitely did not think he was being hard nosed any longer... Hugs and "I love you" were given as she headed out the door. But I can't forget about The Mayor either now...

The Mayor and her hubby walked up to the desk.. The Mayor thinks Brother G is handsome. Well, she and I definitely agree about that! She went on and on about how she enjoys spending time with him and the boys. Her hubby (a good man) talked about how much help my guys were to them today especially... (they were filling in for some other individuals) Her hubby is in his late 80's and by the sheer fact that he can keep up with The Mayor is impressive to say the least. Oh, "The Mayor" is a title she has since she has been with this local church body for so many years and around this town in general. Oh, how I greatly enjoy sitting at her and Trouble's feet just listening to them. Mr. Mayor too although he's not as loud... We don't always agree.. but

There have been a few good men around so far this morning. There's a folding chair here beside where I am sitting. It has been sat in a few times already today, and time has been well spent listening to these men in-between answering the phone. Someone refers to the chair as my couch but that's a different story. One man made a special trip to the physical church building to give money. Yes, he will be here on Sunday... he still came today... Got to love that!

Trouble, The Mayor and A Few Good Men... Better than popcorn and a movie!

Calls Being Answered.

Last night a hundred or so of us gathered to pray at the worship center. A couple of individuals made comments to me about remembering the first time they really came to know me... it was because of a prayer conference. I could not help but smile deeply. They were a couple of ones who did not understand why I was given the task of helping organize it. We had only been at the church around a year at that time when I asked a question. The rest is history or so they say... We've prayed together numerous times since then. Priceless times.

Randal asked everyone there to break up into groups. Brother G and I both knew we needed to be by ourselves. As he got down on his knees and took my hands.... it honestly was not only what we had been called to prayer about that he prayed. It was calls of several types. All that require deep deep prayer. Not surface prayers....

And since Brother G told who he needed to... I can share a bit.

For the next three Sundays... we will not be with the local church body.... Brother G is preaching at two different churches. One this coming Sunday morning, night and then the following Wednesday night. The following two Sundays, he is preaching both morning and night at a church in East Texas. And no, we're not going to the first church. He is still going to fill in while their pastor is on vacation. But we have heard clearly... no... The second church... well... that door just opened. Yes, they are small churches. But they are still just as much as His.

As individuals often tell me/us.... "Your family lives the weirdest life." Well, yes... yes... we do. And yet, calls are being answered. And we will continue to have faith in God for our lives are not our own....

He is God. He is the only one who gives us life.... His Word breathes. It is alive.

And living each moment has never been so exciting even in the midst of everchanging colors.

How long has it been since you've prayed deep deep prayers?

And are you willing to live a weird life if He calls you to no matter where?

Speaking of Marriage..

One of the gifts that Brother G gave me was a book called Sacred Influence by Gary Thomas.

I look forward to devouring it, allowing the Spirit to speak to me through it, and giving my thoughts on it...

If you're married:

How's it going today? this moment?

Could you be a sacred influence to your spouse?

Urgent Prayer Request

Please pray for Laura. She has the MRSA strain of staph infection. This is considered the most serious type of staph and in some cases, drug resistant. They have her on the IV antibiotic vancomycin which is a drug that has been shown to work against MRSA. She is in isolation and will remain there indefinately.

Thank you.

Call to Prayer - Local Body

Local body:

We've been called to prayer as a body.

Tonight. Worship center. 7:00 p.m.

Hope to see you there!

Faith to Move Ahead.

This morning I've been thinking through the G family calendar as it is known right now this moment. Oh my. January is definitely looking like a different month. Yet, it is without a doubt proof of moving ahead.... going forward.

I'm not teaching Bible study group on Sunday mornings for the month of January. When this decision was reached by several parties.... I knew something was up. Didn't know what for sure... just knew. It is already becoming clearer. Not a complete picture mind you. Just a little bit clearer. And I'm beyond excited!

As of right now, this moment, I am scheduled to teach another class on Tuesday mornings. This one on marriage. I've also accepted an invitation to be a break out speaker for a retreat at the end of the January. The subject matter is one that we live daily. I've never spoken to a group of individuals about it before per se... but yet I'm beyond excited....

Wednesday nights, Brother G is scheduled to teach a parenting class and then a marriage class. He has asked me to consider teaching with him. And while I love what I have the pleasure of doing on Wednesday nights...... he does make a tempting offer....

There are other things on our calendar that I'm not at liberty to discuss this moment. That's how it goes with individuals in ministry sometimes. And yet, I can say that, yet again, I'm beyond excited....

All the pieces to the picture that January will be are not in yet... they are unknown at this moment. One thing God has taught me time and time again: You can plan but be prepared for things to change. At times, in a moment's notice without a calling card in hand.

Faith to move ahead. For my faith is secure in Him and not in myself or Brother G.... or anyone else. Faith in Him alone. And that is all that is needed to move ahead.... this moment.

Do you have faith to move ahead? And who is your faith really in?

This Just In.. This Moment.

Question: How many brothers and sisters does Brother G have?

Answer: He is the oldest of five siblings. Four boys.. One girl.. He is 41.. She is 26.

Question: How many brothers and sisters do I have?

Answer: One brother. I'm younger..

Question: Where is mom's boyfriend?

Answer: He is in Louisiana.

Question: Where are our running buddies?

Answer: They've been out of town. We're going to the movie and to dinner tonight. The 11 of us.

Question: Why do I not write more about our siblings and running buddies?

Answer: They have to put up with us enough don't they?

*This Just In.. This Moment is brought to you by itsallrelative.

Update. Christmas 2007.

Update:

Thank you to all who prayed for Shelley's grandfather, her family and her. His surgery went well and he was released from the hospital on Christmas Day! Thank you again.....

Christmas 2007:

Last Thursday, I was given a wonderful assignment. It was to ask 5 family groups per our two Christmas Eve services to participate in the service itself. This type of assignment goes hand in hand with a church body that is in transition. I got input from several of the different ministries.. I then began calling individuals. By early Friday afternoon, each space was locked.

One was to be the Berry Family. If you remember, Briggs was on lifeinthemoments as a prayer request. He was only given two weeks to live.... You should have heard his voice when we were on the phone Friday.... From what I heard.... it was clearly moving when he read his part of Advent.... If the doctors had been right... he would not have been there. Yet, God had other plans for his life.

Part of the design of who was asked to participate was the scope of how many & the ages of family members they have who are a part of our local church body. In the 2nd service.... 40 plus was the total for the five family groups. 3 generations in 4 out of the 5. Did you catch that? Generations being impacted... Oh the stories I could tell you about these families... One was Ms. Nell's who I recently wrote about in Subway Testimony.

When I was given the assignment, it was asked that we were to be a part of an actual service... the six of us. Brother G and Austin were already a part given what they do of course. Little did I know...

When the six of us were reading our part of Advent... Salvation.. as I looked across the sanctuary... I could see faces. Faces of individuals that I had never seen before.. Faces of some whom I/we love beyond words. Faces of individuals who have been being prayed for... they were no longer names... they had faces now.

When the service was over.... Several of the family members came up to me.. It was clear by the looks on their faces, their body language, and what they had to say... this had already been no ordinary Christmas. If one can ever be.......

One of the individuals I had never met before personally and I were introduced. We hit it off immediately! She is a homeschooler.... and is Jewish. We spent the next few minutes talking away. Hugs were given as we left the physical building.... A new friend was made.. I have no doubt phone calls from Houston and G-town will follow... What an amazing woman she is! I had to laugh though when she asked if I am a professional public speaker. And apparently, one of my nephews thought I sounded along the lines of a certain woman who is heard speaking all over the world... Laughter... what a gift.

Brother G, myself, Parker, and my brother's wife had cooked most of dinner before the service. We came back to the house and had a wonderful meal together. Did I ever mention that Brother G is an amazing cook? Oh my... So is this particular s-i-l.... We enjoyed our time together as the B/G family.. They spend the night as a part of tradition...

Christmas morn came with wonderful surprises. Something called a Wii has found its way to this house.... And I have never been more thankful for a game system as funny as that sounds. Why? Christmas Day afternoon and evening.... was spent somewhere completely different for the five of us... in Dallas with several members of the G family.... Hubby's parents, two of his brothers, one sister-in-law, and three dogs made for an unforgettable time! Watching them all play the Wii together was beyond a bonding adventure... Laughter was abundant..

What was so amazing about our time at D and L's home as well.... as we sat around their dining table... she teared up and said, "This has always been a dream of mine. To have family around our table at Christmas time." She had wonderful little treats at each place setting along with paper crowns... Brother G's was pink... His dad's purple.. Each gift between all there was thoughtful... it was evident that real consideration into who each person was definitely given. Totally awesome! I sit here now with a new nickname... Marshmallow. The pink peep has been replaced...

As we came back home... mom was sitting in her chair watching a movie on TV. As the boys talked with her about their time with the other side of the family... it was clear... we really are one in the bond of love... His love... Even with the memories of Christmas' past with ones no longer physically here...

Brother G was truly moving this year.. more so than ever.... The gifts he gave me... to the married couples on both sides of the family... the personal notes he wrote of encouragement, love and hopes for the future. The reasons behind the Wii coming to this house..... oh my... And yet...

There is no gift that can compare to Jesus. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day may have come and gone and still Christmas is not over....

May it be alive and living 365 days a year! May His Spirit be ever present in your moments.

And may you dine at His table as family.

Pacemaker for Christmas?

Please continue to pray for Shelley's grandfather, her family and her.. He is having a pacemaker put in today between 3 and 5.. Yes, Christmas Eve Day...

Hug your family...

Tell them you love them... and if they do not know the real meaning of Christmas...

Let Jesus be alive in and through you so that they may see Him and want to know more.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to you/yours! May Christ be more real to you this moment than ever before.

And may you know the real Spirit of Christmas.