Connections Through the Moments.

The last 24 hours have brought about numerous conversations. A couple really stick out in my mind at the moment.... all connected in one way or another.

Last night, we were with a large group of individuals at some dear friends' house. I noticed this elderly woman sitting at one of only a couple of tables by herself. I walked over, sat down, and introduced myself to her.

Nancy is in her 80's. I could not help but laugh as she was sharing with me about her days on the water. As we looked out on the picturesque views the lake was providing..... she mentioned that she had stopped skiing when she was 55-years-old. Why did I laugh? When I asked why that age instead of 54 - she replied, "Well, I finally realized I was too old for that sort of stuff. It took me a year.. but when I realized it - I stopped." Rich stuff there...

As we talked, as we shared...... we realized we had much in common over the moments of our lives though greatly far a part in the number of years. A few other individuals kept joining us as we continued to talk. One was her daughter. As I was sharing certain things about myself - she gave me the funniest look. Then, she had a light bulb go off.

She had been in a room full of people one day when I was the guest speaker years ago. She said, "You know Camey? I remember people praying for you and your family during the years you were ill. And all that time we were praying..... we never realized the impact those prayers - your healing would have on us here. How we would directly benefit from carrying you to God other than that time spent with The Father?"

She then told her mom, Nancy, who my dad was. Nancy looked at me and got big tears in her eyes. You see, Nancy gets around via wheelchair. I just had not asked why up until that part of the conversation. I took Nancy's hand in mine as her daughter told me, "Mom has Parkinson's like your dad did. He was a great encouragement to her."

Nancy and I proceeded to talk about the struggles of illnesses, about losing independence, needing individuals to care for basic needs, and yet how much can be gained in the process. There was another woman sitting at the table with us... before leaving - she told me how much she had enjoyed listening to our conversation even though she rarely entered in to it with audible words.

Nancy's son-in-law said to me, "I can remember your dad crying buckets as he would give us the latest update on your health. And then cried even more when sharing that you were healed. And we all cried with him."

Funny enough? The day I came to speak to 3 different large groups at this physical church building on the hill in G-town, Texas... it was my first time to drive that far by myself any where since 1998. I got lost. And when I stopped in a little convenience store to ask for directions... a man said to me, "Sister! You're not that far from your turn." I walked out the door laughing..... And little did we know at that time - God would tell us to move there...... here..... a year later.

In the fall of 2004, Parker had a dream. By this time hubby and I had surrendered to God..... In the dream, the next place we were going to live was surrounded by trees. Lots and lots of trees. As I sit here writing this - you should see all the trees behind me, to the sides of me, and in front..... Again... laughter... rich laughter.

There are connections through the moments. And today, as I had conversation after conversation with individuals all over G-town during the parade and after... I am reminded of that all the more. As Brother G is at Wal-Mart.... as Austin is at the little store here in highly secure gated community.... and as Trav, Park and I are heading to the pool here shortly.... all the more.

So, whatever lies ahead.... I am grateful for the struggles and the fights and the Victory in Jesus.... and for knowing that grace walks each step of the way..... even with that turn around the corner that has our name on it.

He is the God of our yesterdays... Today.... And tomorrows.....

And it is a privilege to be His servants wherever we may be or go.....

Wrestling with Patience.

So, it's the 4th of July weekend...... and I have a confession to make.....

I am already wrestling with Patience.

There is an estimated 60,000 plus individuals expected to hit our town during this holiday weekend. Did you catch that? 60,000 plus???? In G-town.......

So, I'm wrestling with Patience already this morning.

Parker returned from camp yesterday. I wish I had a thought to record him as he was sharing with me the low down. It's a fact - he can talk faster than his mom and Austin put together! He was/is PUMPED UP! (Thanks to those who were praying!!!!) More to come on that.....

G & JE have a teenage boy from Spain staying with them for the next month. The three of them, our three sons and myself hung out at the pool last night. We have plans to meet them there again at 11:00 a.m. this morning. Pepe is a not-yet-believer. Seeds are being planted during his time here....... Funny how water, splashing, and smiles can break down a language barrier.

Again, I'm wrestling with Patience.

Tomorrow morning is the parade down on the square. Thousands of thousands of individuals will be lined up and down the streets... in the shops.... walking around and checking out the booths. And yes, it is like being in a time warp. Okay... so that part to me is a little weird.

Why am I wrestling with Patience? And why am I capitalizing it as if it were a proper name?

Ahhhhhhh because it is in this case!

Instead of seeing the 60,000 plus peeps hitting our town as traffic and a major headache....

I see it as opportunities to show God's kindness and love.

While there is a part of me that is preparing to leaving G-town when called to... whenever and wherever that might be.

This weekend - I am still here.... we are still here.....

And that's where wrestling with Patience comes in to play....

For while I am thankful to live in America... and in G-town.....

There is nothing like the real freedom that Christ paid for.

And it is a pleasure and privilege to be able to share about it through acts of kindness.

It is also a responsibility I believe as a Christ-follower to let His Light shine for others to see.

The Light of the World is truly better than any fireworks display!

Happy 4th of July!!!!!

Don't play it safe........ make the most of every opportunity.

Speaking of Those Kind of People..

I've written about Trouble on numerous occasions. Today, I've had a couple of people ask me, "Why are you not asking for prayer for Trouble?" I have been in various other places and ways.

Trouble has had this infection for quite some time. It looks like it is turning out to be MRSA. Trouble's health ain't so keen any ways... Throw in the fact that she is in her 80's....... And we're talking a recipe that none of us want to taste at the moment.

I spoke with her late this afternoon after numerous attempts to reach her throughout the day. Trouble cried and cried on the phone with me after hearing about all the people asking about her and remembering her in prayer.

I'm often asked how did Trouble and the G family become so close. That's what happens when individuals come to love and accept each other so deeply. We often disagree... or agree to disagree... disagree to agree - if you get my point. We hug each time when saying "hello" and "goodbye" - even if we've been spitting at each other because we've been so passionate about whatever the subject has been.

Trouble and I have spent numerous hours over the years praying together. The conversations we've had at great lengths in the foyer of the physical church building would make some people blush. Trouble shoots from the hip.... and she shoots straight. And man, oh man..... if I could grow up to be half the woman she is....

The last time Trouble brought us a bag of goodies it contained some of our favorite things: sugar cookie mix and pancake mix. And while to most that would not seem like that big of a deal... for a woman who is on a very fixed income such as Trouble.... it is a priceless gift. It is also a testimony of her faith and investing in the lives of others. The sugar cookie mix is for me to make with our sons... the pancake mix is for Brother G to fix me one of my favorite meals - pancakes, lots of syrup, real butter, and whipped cream on top. She has taken the time to learn these things over the moments.

So, I ask if you will remember Trouble as you pray....

More than that, I ask that you consider the legacy she is writing during the moments..

For you see, for well over a year plus now - she has been covered in sores, in pain, searching for answers and that has not stopped her from loving generously.

Trouble is one of those kind of people. And the G family is ever so grateful for her life for she loves Jesus and is not afraid to wear it on her sleeve even if you were to wipe your nose on it.

Those Kind of People. Real Nourishment.

Yesterday morning I received a phone call as I was preparing to leave the highly secure gated community for the day. It is safe to say, the person on the other end is one of those kind of people. We were discussing an article I had written... and he was editing it.

I've been writing for years. Never had this type of editor before... Oh, sure individuals will say, "You did not have to say it that way." Normally, that's because I've stepped on their toes or encouraged them when they really did not want to be. Or so I'm often told.

This was different. He was asking me questions and I was required to dig deeper. I had written in a way that I do not normally do. Therefore, the flow was not natural. Oh, the piece in of itself was not bad. That's not what he was saying. It just did not necessarily jive with how I write here - nor how I speak/talk.... and he called me on it. And it is safe to say I had an "AHA" moment.

I had let a couple of other individuals read the piece before I submitted it. I went back to them and shared about my conversation with the editor.... they all agreed with him. In their love for me, they had given me nothing but positive feedback on it. And yet, when told what this individual had to say, they coughed up their flowery love and showed me their real love.

One of the things I've fought time and time again is "yes" people. I am not that kind of person. And I do not want those kind of people cheering me on. I want people who will say, "Man, Camey. You blew it with that. What were you thinking?"

I believe as Christ-followers we are called to spur each other on. To cause each other to dig deeper than we would on our own... to help prune the thorns if you will....

And all the while knowing that it is not us who truly do so.... it is the power of His Spirit alive in us and flowing out because of His love and kindness. The Father does not want us to stay the same..... but to grow and mature. And at times that hurts like heck. But man, oh man..... is it every worth it in the long run...

Are you one of those kind of people?

God's love is not all flowery. Why should ours be either?

I go back to my use of the onion here... It can stink... Cause one to cry... And yet, what can be created with onion as an ingredient can satisfy a hungry body - provide real nourishment.

AHA! Start cooking people. (and Camey)

Prayer Life - Guest Blogger

There are numerous individuals in our lives that we are beyond thankful for. One's name is Leonard. The following was written by him for Life in the Moments and just one example of why we are so grateful for his life.... and ministry in the moments.

Prayer Life:

I have about 7 different conversations with my wife. They have many different forms but boiled down; they amount to about 7 or 8. I love them, I am not bored with them, and in fact they are what consistently keep us on the same page with joy and partnership. These conversations mean so much to us, our marriage and family that we take time to sit nearly every day to have these conversations, we make time to call and have these conversations and we stop other things in our lives to have these 7-8 different conversations. I liken this a bit to my prayer life.

In the midst of hiring staff, letting staff go, setting goals for the church, managing a church, providing for a family, caring for my friends and well you know all the other kinds of activities we do I was reminded by my Father in heaven not to trade praying a lot for a prayer life. I was immediately encouraged and challenged in my spirit.

You see, I try to have a prayer life. You know about 7 or 8things I stop my life to talk with God about. These are people and things that I could never stop praying about because they are in the center of everything I do and am. What happens to me is I get so busy that instead of forging the time to have this repeated but necessary conversation with God, I just end up just praying a lot. I trade a prayer life for just praying a lot. Sure I pray as I am driving, showering, eating, sitting, waiting, studying, getting ready for bed, getting ready to get up and I end up with about 99 conversations with God. This makes for little depth for me and while I am praying a lot, it does not make a prayer life.

Here is my habit for the past 20 years or so. I have a list. It is a physical list that sits on my desk or in my bible or on my computer. On this list is my wife, my kids, my extended family, my church, your churches, the church in the world, the lost and myself. These 8 things are the only thing that ever make my prayer list. In other words, these are my repeated 8 conversations with God. I try to pray for those things every day in a time of just sitting before my heavenly Father. I will add some listening time, praise time and confession time (sometimes I need a lot of this, especially on days that end with y). I then use my driving, sitting, waiting etc. for the other 99 things I need to have a conversation with God about. This is when I pray for the sick, for the overwhelming number of requests that come into my life, for jobs for people in my church…

When I pray a lot God answers prayer and his work is done. When I have a prayer life, I am changed and know my Father in heaven. As you head into a busy summer that was preceded by a busy spring and will be followed by a busy fall, can I encourage you with the same encouragement I received from my Father in Heaven, don’t trade praying a lot for a prayer life.

Monday's Dances.

When we left the house yesterday, I simply had no clue what all would go down. The anticipation was in the air and it was creating a beautiful sound - one of music you could dance to.

Parker got off to camp with a big smooch and squeezing the heck out his mom.... I just had to laugh. He then told me I was free to go hug on some other children who needed to know God's love. He also said, "Make sure you tell those teenagers to play with them. They like hide-n-go seek." Thata boy Parker! Talk about dancing....

Allen is sixteen-years-old. He is one of the students that Brother G and I have been vesting in the last several months. He just insisted on riding shot gun with me in the vehicle I was driving. So, Austin and Travis were cool enough to go with Ryan and Shelley instead of their mom. Those boys dance with their mother in more ways than I can count.

I had a great group of students with me at the site we were assigned. As we waited for the children to come - I encouraged them to play games with them. Not just hand them the sack and say a couple of words and then off they would go type thing. And did they play.... They let the children chase them... swung on the swings beside them... and on and on....

As the other children were playing, one was sharing with me about his home life. When he told me what school he went to, I looked at him and said,, "Do you know Parker?" He then went on to say that not only did he know Parker but that Parker and his dad had fed them & spent time with them last week. He talked more about his home life. I put my arm around him and hugged him and told him that we would be praying for him and his family. He hugged me back hard and said, "I know you will because I know what kind of kid Parker is and he was here with his dad." Please join us in praying for him and his family....

Allen, Leah, and I talked more about camp as we were closing down. They were so incredibly inspiring listening to. I asked deep questions and they responded with more than "Sunday School" answers. We talked about how they could put feet to their thoughts. That they needed to be more than mere emotions and feelings alone. More than a few camp fire songs that burn out after daylight dawns. Please pray for Allen and Leah as they seek to listen to God and follow Him no matter the cost.

After returning back to the physical church building, Cyndi asked if I could take her to meet her mom. As we were driving into town, Cyndi and I talked about cell phones and texting... about how God spoke to her last week. We talked about the mission trip to Mission Arlington that she had gone on. She shared with me about her thoughts on next summer. We talked about practical ways she could be on mission right here in G-town. Cyndi is a leader whether she wants to be or not. Please join me in praying for her to be the kind of leader that God wants her to be.

As we were heading back to the house, Austin and Travis talked more about the day's events and various other things. It's funny how much one can learn from their own children. The music was totally beyond words for this mom and sister in Christ.

Brother G stocks water at Wal-Mart for 8 hours a time. That's how much bottled water the folks of G-town use.. And that's just from Wal-Mart people! While we know there are many who do not understand and are not cool with the fact that he is working there.... others totally get it. People are thirsty. Make no mistake about it...

There is Only One Living Water...... Where's your watch? And are you dancing?

When Brother G came back to the highly secure gated community, he shared with me about all the various folks he saw through the course of the day... one was Cyndi. She then went on tell him some about our conversation. Make no mistake about it either - students watch and listen.... and learn one way or another... Please join us in praying for all the individuals who can be found at Wal-Mart... whether working there or just coming in to not make it out without spending a $100 bucks.

Brother G just left to go the physical church building. He is wearing a t-shirt and blue jeans.. His t-shirt says it well, "Work Hard. Pray Hard. John 3:16" Yes, he wears these type of t-shirt for a couple of reasons... 1) he's that kind of guy really; 2) they prompted conversations... open doors.

Monday's dances are songs that linger into Tuesday's moments and so on..... That's the type of music that He provides us to dance to..

As always - you dear reader were prayed for this moment wherever you may be and go.

What A Monday!

The household has been wild this morning! We've all been here this morning. That does not happen often any longer.

That's changing though...

Brother G has left to tend to one of his properties. Then on to Wal-Mart.... until 8:00 p.m. tonight.

Parker is leaving for preteen camp.... he'll be gone until Thursday. Longest he has been gone from us! He's on a special mission this week. So please pray for him.... pray for those he will be sharing God's love and kindness to. Pray for all the kids and adults going. Pray for their parents! lol

Austin, Travis and myself - are heading to feed some children free lunches and show them God's kindness. Then, the boys are going to a Bible study. Where am I going to be? hmmmmm.....

What a Monday!!!!

Talk about being pumped up!!!!

Answers to Prayers. Seeing God Move.

Back a few weeks ago I shared about The Ashes in Life. 10 Years. This morning... I saw Dating Ashley and walked up to speak with her. Friday night was so chaotic that I did not get to spend any time really talking with her upon their returning from camp. She looked at me and said, "So? Do you know?" She then proceeded to share with me about accepting Christ at camp on Wednesday night. We hugged and we cried... Then, she blew me away even more....

As we were worshipping, Pastor Mark asked a couple of the kids from camp to come up and share about it. Ashley not only got up there, she shared about the God-sized hole she'd had in her life. How only God was able to fill it and complete her. Again..... tears down my face. She so gets it now!! She then encouraged any one who was still searching to stop looking everywhere else but to God. Thankfully one of the gals next to me had a kleenex.

As we were getting ready to leave... Ashley came and found me. We hugged... and hugged. She will be out-of-town for a month. When she returns - she plans on getting baptized. She said, "My mom will come then and will have to let my little brother come too. Keep praying Camey!"

As if that was not enough......

We had the Lord's Supper this morning.... What an incredibly special time that was...

Our AP, Randal, announced he has been called to be the senior pastor of a church in Georgia. His wife, Cathy, was unable to be with him. He accepted the call last Sunday night for them to then run to be with her dad for his last few moments. Cathy is still in Florida. This couple are dear friends of ours as well. Cathy and I were both on staff together at another ministry when my dad passed on. We've been through many valleys together as well as mountain tops. She is definitely my sister in Christ. Randal is a brother to me as well. He and I get madder than a hornet's nest at each other but love each other (and each other's families) so deeply. We ache with each other. Laugh with each other. We hope..... We pray..... Distance won't change that I'm sure. And for those who were mad that I did not share about any big announcement being made today - not gonna apologize for that... it comes with the hats that I wear.

Brother G and I are currently teaching the 18-25 somethings during the 10:30 time slot. This morning - Brother G was needed elsewhere. Today I had 5 individuals in the group. One whom was in a class of mine a year or so ago.. another whom we've known for a couple of years. Since we really do not know many in the group - today we spent time getting to know each other some. The more transparent a teacher can be .... often times.... those in the class will follow. This morning was proof of that.

Holy Spirit was freely moving in that room. One guy who normally does not talk much... finished answering the direct question I asked him before needing to leave for his job at Wal-Mart...... he said, "No, I can't go until I finish answering your question." One guy had tears in his eyes as he was answering his question. One by one as they were walking out the door - they reached out to hug me. That's not me people... That's God moving.... I'm just the vessel being used at that moment.

I'm often told that individuals do not want to be asked questions... especially not direct ones. I beg to differ. My time with pregnant teens, single moms, young marrieds with preschoolers/children, teenagers, the homeless, and etc. all show otherwise.

If we want individuals to come to learn that God can and does meet them where they are at - wherever that may be - we must be willing to be His hands and feet. To ask those questions..... to take a vested interest in the life of another..... To share openly about how He has changed our own lives and is still changing us daily.... To not make complete sentences and yet for them to make sense because of Him because no other answer works.

I do not know if I will see Ashley get baptized.

Or see her mom and brother come to know Jesus.

But I do know this.... PRAISE GOD for how He moves...

For He has passed by this way..... He has made His presence known.

And today... we drank from the cup and ate the bread and remembered it was He who gave His life for each one of us.

Time to get out of that boat people! And walk......

Life's AHA Moments! Compassion.

Last night our two oldest sons, Austin and Travis (16 & 13) returned from Student Life Camp. As I sat there and listened to them.. it was clear that they indeed have had "AHA" moments this past week.

I asked each one of them, "If given the choice between going back to Student Life Camp for another week or going back to Mission Arlington - which one would you pick?" They both said Mission Arlington. In fact, Austin said, "I don't think I'll be going to Student Life Camp next summer. My plan is to be out serving others instead." Travis said, "I'd definitely take Mission Arlington. Sure it was tough work but well worth it."

As with any trip away from mom and dad our sons go on, I spent some one on one time with each son. A couple of weeks ago, I thought about suggesting to Austin that he adopt a child through Compassion International (www.compassion.com) - I decided against it. Now I know why......

Austin has adopted Frixon Ariel Medranda Vera - a ten-year-old boy from Ecuador this week through Student Life Camp for $40.00 a month. Any day of the week as a parent and as a sister-in-Christ - I'd rather him do such a thing because he is compelled to because of God's love outflowing through him. Austin is at the little store here in the highly secure gated community as I type this with yet another purpose for his service there. He is a stocker, checker, produce man, and etc. with a joyful heart and a smile that reflects that even when he is dirt tired.

Travis said to me, "Mom, I have to agree with Austin. I don't know that I'll be going back to Student Life Camp next year either. I know there are better ways to spend my time for God." We have seen such incredible growth in Travis the last few months especially. And as Parker, our ten-year-old said, "That's what we're suppose to do - not stay the same. We're suppose to grow as we serve. And serve as we grow." Talk about "AHA".....

Parker has spent a good amount of time with me at the physical church building this week. We've talked about the various things as they've gone on. From the phone calls of individuals seeking shelter, food, or ...... to those who walked in the doors - we talked. One man came in to the building as I was upstairs making sure the night service was on. Parker ran up the stairs to get me saying, "Mom, I think he's been in jail. He needs help." He was right. And when I told the man I remembered him from a few months ago, he had tears streaming down his face.....

"You remember me Camey?"

Please note here.... I did not have my name tag on. He then said, "I remember how kind you were to me. Thank you."

God's Compassion fails not.... we just have to remember it's His... not ours to keep.

As with Compassion International.... it can be as simple as $40 a month..

As with Healthy Kids... it can be as simple as giving out a free lunch...

How is His Compassion flowing out of you?

Rumors!!!!

Rumor #1:

I hear the students will be back around 6:00 p.m.

Answer: True. Can't wait to see those smelly faces and hug the heck out 'em and see how God rocked their worlds!

Rumor #2:

Brother G was seen working at Wal-Mart today.

Answer: Also true! In addition to being The Lawn Pastor ... he's now The Wal-Mart Pastor too. See a pattern??? (He's a stocker.. not a stalker.. watch the spelling please people.) Stay engaged where you are at and be prepared to leave brings on whole new meaning yet again.

Rumor #3:

The students were challenged in last night's sermon to stay on their mission trip even after it is over.

Answer: True! I know because I was listening live via their website! As a parent with a son going on a mission trip here soon - it's okay with me if he does not return because he has been called to stay there. Yes, I just said that out loud (well, sort of). He's not mine to keep any way..

Rumor #4:

There are items needed for VBS still.

Answer: True! Remember folks.... we're looking to have hundreds kiddos here at the physical church building that week. Some of which we're connecting with through Healthy Kids currently. (Over 600 plus free lunches have been served since the 5th of June.)

Rumor #5:

It will be hard to top the motorcycles from last year. What are they going to pull out of their hats for this one?

Answer: That was off the charts! And true... very true. I have no clue - even if I did...... shhhh

There ya have it folks.

I'm Naked. I Gotta Go Potty.

I'm often asked why I get such a kick out of working the front downstairs desk on Thursdays and Fridays....

You know the old, "Why on earth would anyone want that job?"

The widow ladies are going on a day trip today.

"I'm naked."

"I gotta go potty."

These things have already been said to me this morning while at this desk.

The one lady was seeking my help because she had forgotten her earrings. Therefore, she was naked by her definition of the word and circumstance.

The other ladies all saying, "I gotta go potty" took the time to then explain to me the necessity of going to the potty before going on a road trip.

There ya go... Just a couple of reasons why. Laughter simply abounds!

Praises! Prayers Being Answered.

Latest txt msg from Dawn:


"Praises! Wrangler moved from ICU. Now at Richardson Tower. Night went well. Go 2 Harris Hospital website and send him an email. They will hand deliver 2 him! He was very excited 2 get some yesterday!"

For specific room number information - please contact me directly via the physical church building until 4:30 p.m. central or leave a comment here and I will call or email you with the information.

Please keep praying! God is answering prayers...

Praying in the Spirit. Noticing Others.

Yesterday morning before leaving for the physical church building - I had been praying in the Spirit. A "open my eyes - help me see what You see.... make me not be able to be comfortable" type praying. This is a part of my very breathing... For someone who is as shy as I am - the type of ministry I've been called to requires more from me than I am able to do or give on my own. I depend greatly upon Him to guide me. Otherwise - sitting behind this desk is good with me. That's why it demands surrendering every single day. Again praying in the Spirit....

Please be aware - this next part may offend some. Others will be able to laugh with me and understand my gratitude.

I threw down my dinner. I was so hungry that I did not really take the time to eat slowly. Really had not eaten that well during the day so was ready to chow down. Totally forgetting that I do not eat broccoli and cauliflower in such situations. It tasted so good though!

So, on my way to make a hospital visit.... Gas and burping became a passenger. Shortest hospital visit I have ever made! I headed back to the physical church building to hide out until Parker was ready to leave.

I was sitting at my desk upstairs when she walked by...Her head was hanging down low. There was sadness and despair written in her overall body language. She did not notice me at first but then turned around and looked directly at me. I motioned to her to come on in...

She tried to act as if nothing was wrong at first. Then I asked her, "Tell me why the despair?" She looked at me as if she realized I knew any way... and then poured.... and poured.... out.

This is one time when I can say that gas was a blessing. Praying in the Spirit often brings about opportunities to truly notice others. I was not able to immediately solve her problems. But sometimes - just knowing someone will listen and then actually does is food for the body and soul.

Please pray for this woman and her circumstances.

Please pray also for the woman in the hospital as well.

Although I would beg to say that they both were in one.

Speaking of Difficult Moments...

This morning I am totally laughing. The main computer I use is not working properly...

Yes, it is the very one I have the first installment of the writing opportunity thingy on.

Good thing I was able to print a copy up before the computer went south. (Funny I thought we were already south being in Texas!) Looks like I'll have to retype the whole 750 words.

Now is that really a difficult moment? On one scale perhaps.. others - nope.

Wrangler is having surgery again this very moment - talk about truly difficult.

Please continue to pray for him and all connected.

May they know The Comforter's presence like never before.

Dealing with Life's Difficult Moments.

One of the things I'm often asked to talk about is about dealing with life's difficult moments. So, here we go... if you know me at all.... if I can share from personal experience(s) - I try to. I've found over the years that it helps others connect better.

I was asked specifically: "Camey? The last ten years of your life especially are like something one would read in a book. How can you say if you never receive another blessing you're blessed beyond measure and richer than rich?" Okay... So how can I?

The last ten years have been the worst of the worst and the best of the best all thrown in and mixed up together. Through all of life's ups and downs and twists and turns... God has been there. He has been my refuge. I have learned that there are no arms better. There is no love stronger. There is no bond tighter. There is no relationship more important.

One day when daddy was needing a bath... I had the privilege of telling him he was just going to have to get over my bathing him. The nurse could not do it alone given daddy's health at that moment. Daddy was mad at me. I was his daughter... I was not suppose to be bathing him.. taking care of him... He asked me, "Cam? When did I give up control?" I then reminded him of the years when I was ill (trading places takes on a whole new meaning here) - he told me numerous times over that my not being able to do something for myself was another person's opportunity to receive a blessing by doing it for me. That we never have the ultimate control that we think we do. So, I repeated back to him what he had said to me. . And we laughed.

Why laugh? Was that laughter inappropriate given the circumstances? No... not at all. He was mad at someone whom he had cried many many tears with years before when she was lying in a hospital bed not able to move from the neck down. Now.. here was that same person being able to bathe him.. take care of him.. at his times of greatest physical needs. The most basic of basic needs just as that person had known herself. As I had known myself.....

During the years that I was ill, daddy would often say to me, "You know, God is teaching me that as much as I think I can take care of you.. make it all better... save you... I can't." And I could not make it all better or save him either. I wasn't suppose to. That was not my place as it was not his either.

We were created for God... He is the Only One who can truly save any of us. It is only the depths of His love that even in the midst of the most difficult moments can make one be filled with joy and laugh. Pain can rip out our hearts to such a degree that we think we will never be the same again. And honestly, when pain comes - it means we are to be changed - stretched. We are given the opportunity to look to Him, and say, "I will trust You even when it does not make sense."

God is bigger than any and all circumstances. And when we can come to grips with that...

We can dance when the rain comes in our bare feet and sing His praise with arms wide open even to a song we don't like the beat of.

Are you able to dance today.. this moment?

Are your arms wide open or are they closed not willing to be unclenched?

Prayer Requests for Staffers.

UPDATE 6/24/08:

Funeral for Cathy's dad is Thursday 6/26 in Bartow, FL. For more information you may contact the physical church building.

Wrangler is off the ventilator.. He is doing good. Talking a little. Keep praying for no infection. He is at Harris Downtown Ft Worth. More surgeries to come.


(AP) Randal - Cathy's dad passed away Sunday night in Florida. His diagnosis of cancer to passing was very quick.

(MA - preschool/children) Cassie - her son, Wrangler, was hit on his motorcycle and is at this moment having surgery on his leg. He will have several more surgeries. He will be in the hospital 7 to 10 days at least according to doctors.

Please join us in lifting up these staffers and their families/friends during these times.

Thank you.

It's A Funny Monday.

It is not even noon here in G-town. (might be by the time I'm finished. lol)

What a funny Monday....

By 8:15 a.m.:

A gang of 88 peeps left out of the physical church building parking lot heading for Student Life Camp in LA. Two of those peeps are mine and Brother G's sons - Austin and Travis. Talk about excited! Too dang funny. They didn't have to hug their mama goodbye before getting on the bus because we're a hugging family daily anyway.

There are a few individuals that I have purposefully been investing time in the last couple of months especially. Some are also on that bus. I asked the one with the name written on my prayer band how could I be specifically praying for her this week.. Her response... "That I would have the courage to share my faith with others." Oh my.... what a privilege to pray that kind of prayer. Please join me won't you?

Another individual on the bus I've requested prayer for numerous times before from various individuals/circles. She is not happy about being on that bus. She may be smiling but she is not happy. Brother G, myself, her grandparents and etc... cannot wait to see what God has in store for her this week. It is no coincidence she is on that bus. Yes, of course, please pray for her.

Please pray for all those adults and students. Pray also for their families back in G-town. May God truly rock lives this week! May they be shaken and stirred and poured out!

11:30 a.m.:

I was arranging for more time for the young woman and baby to stay where they had been moved to on Friday. Shortly afterwards - she tells me her news.. She has found a place to stay with a friend. That friend has a relative who is willing to loan her an extra vehicle they have to get back and forth to the new job she just got on Friday. She was beyond grateful to our church body.... and hopefully we'll see her for dinner and Bible study on Wednesday night if not before. Yes, keep praying for her and her baby.

Parker and I had made a delicious homemade lunch of three cheese grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup with bacon. We cooked together and then totally chowed down together. Yummy!

Brother G has called a few times from the physical church building... He's working on website stuff this morning and eating lunch with a fun bunch of peeps. Funny enough? More knocking this morning from a different church than last week. We kind of thought maybe that one had gone past us... Goes to show... Seeking God's face!! And yes, we believe in being open about the fact that his resume is out and about. We're prepared to stay in G-town or to leave... staying fully engaged and yet prepared to move. THAT is only possible with HIM!

All day today:

It's Shelley's birthday! Yes, she purposefully planned to be gone to camp! That right there is someone who cares more about the students than being pampered.... lol We love you Shelley! We are exceedingly blessed to call you our sister in Christ, dear friend, and our sons' student minister (along with Ryan.. except the sister part... lol)

Right now:

I'm closing this puppy down. That writing assignment has my name on it. And I am counting my blessings for the privilege of being able to write about how prayer and serving truly go hand in hand.

OH... and yes.... lest I get in trouble again for not mentioning it... It has been 5 years now since I was completely healed physically. My gratitude for that goes without saying. May I never forget what it was like to be fed, bathed, and etc.... Somehow, I know I won't. My HOPE is in the Great Physician ALONE... otherwise - I should still be paralyzed from the neck down waiting to take my last breath.

And you've been prayed for wherever you are at this moment! Thank you for that privilege.

Oh Those Men.....

This afternoon I was reflecting back over the day thus far...... I could not help but smile deeply. Let me explain why...

The G family is incredibly blessed to have some amazing men in our lives. Some having been around since I was a little girl - others having really known only for a few months now. One thing is a common thread amongst these men.

Shortly before leaving the physical church building, one stopped me and put his arms me and hugged me tight. And I hugged right back. We do not always agree but that does not stop us from loving each other richly. If you've ever heard me talk about "The Ten Men"... he is one of them. Brother G walked up shortly after and this man said, "Hey Man! I'm praying!" And laughter erupted as only can between individuals who are so connected. Brother G knowing that I had shared with this man something we've been discussing and praying about and seeking God's face on. This man almost always says to me, "I love you kid." And without question - we love him and his wife.

Another man was opening the doors for individuals. As he was finishing for the morning, he walked over to me and hugged me. For as long as we've known one another - the majority of my life now... he has started off conversations with me by asking, "So? How's Camey today?" Today was no different. We share life's ups and downs and have seen each other through some of the best of times and worst. Again, we do not always agree but that does not stop us from loving each other richly. And without question - we love him and his wife. And yes, he is another one of "The Ten Men."

Over the course of the last couple of weeks in particular.. Brother G and I have been getting to spend real time getting to know Pastor Mark.. Mark. I've been asked what are my thoughts and opinions of him. That always strikes me as funny actually. This morning's sermon was an example of why there is no doubt Mark already holds a tender place in our hearts... He shared about how only God completes any person. About how we are to seek God's face and not only His hand. He was wearing this dumb smile because he is so excited about going to camp with our students this week. Why it is called a "dumb smile" is beyond me because it really is rather smart.

Earlier this morning I wrote about another very special man in our lives.... Again... One common thread....

They are some of God's men. God loves them. They love God. And because of that... they invest in the lives of others. Giving what they do not have on their own but must rely on God for.

So, I issue this challenge for any man reading this.... Consider the following:

What do individuals say about you?

Do you invest in the lives of others because of God's love for you and yours for Him?

In this day and age... it is vitally important for men to step up to the plate and get off the sidelines or the couch.

Are you now.... will you be.... One of God's Men?

Are you ready to go where no man can truly go alone?

One of God's Men.

Today is the birthday of a very special man. He is clearly one of God's men. Time and time again, God uses this simple man in ways that only He can. This man at times wears his heart on his sleeve but that truly only makes him more endearing. This man is not afraid to say what he thinks and mean what he says. This man is a risk taker for the sake of God's kingdom alone. This man is a devoted family man. I could go on and on for this man is truly one whom God has used time and time again in our moments of life and living... especially through prayer and real communication. This man is a servant of God.

Happy birthday to one of God's men!

May God bless you PT in ways you've only yet to dream of... for His glory and honor alone.

The G family loves you and are grateful for your life beyond words.

Prayer. A Date. Saying Sorry. Funny.

Prayer:

On Wednesday afternoon, I had the opportunity to spend some time talking with a man that encourages the heck out of me. Funny enough? This man and I have never met face to face.. yet. In that phone conversation, he and I were discussing the importance of prayer in the moments of life and living... and in serving. Late yesterday afternoon I was asked why do I take prayer so seriously. The conversation with this man came rushing back into my mind. And that was used to help share with this other individual about seeing prayers answered in ways that one simply cannot explain except with God and the power of Holy Spirit. Conversations not filled with empty words. Words that help breathe God's kindness and grace into those of others.. The effect is one of overflowing, pouring into another, and the ripple goes on and on. I believe in the power of prayer. And I am always thankful for the opportunity to share about the Hope that is only found in God.

A Date:

As we were leaving the physical church building last night, Brother G and I were talking with two teenage girls about the importance of dating even after having been together so long. Our lives have been extremely wild as of late... so, we decided to go to dinner and then for a ride out in the couuuuuuunnnntry. As I was having the pleasure of riding in the passenger seat along side of the man that I love more today than yesterday... I could not help but be taken in by the scenery and the sound of his voice as he was singing. As we returned back into town - talk about feeling refreshed and revived. We weren't gone but a couple of hours and yet they were incredibly sweet. I am blessed beyond measure to be Brother G's sister in Christ, wife, mother to his sons, and partner in ministry. That all goes back to prayer..... every single bit of it.

Saying Sorry:

Yep. I had to say I was sorry to Brother G just a few minutes ago. OUCH! Fortunately, every one who knows me knows I'm soooo not perfect anyway.. He asked if there was a new message on the answering machine last night when we returned back to the house. I said no... just assuming without checking that it was a message I left for my mom to hear. Nope... when I checked it this morning.. it was for Brother G. (Knock. Knock.) Again... that all goes back to prayer..

Funny:

Parker absolutely cracks me up. As we were spending time together this morning - just the two of us... he said to me, "Well, that's obviously......." Oh, did I say, "just the two us?"

As always, you've been prayed for this moment wherever you may be.