Burning Hearts – January 19
1 year ago
Saturday, July 12, 2008
The Privilege of Service
Can I just go on record as saying that I love our student ministers at our church? Now, I really, genuinely love both Shelley and Ryan because I just really like them as people and as a brother and sister in Christ. But what I truly love about the two of them are the high expectations of Christian discipleship they have of our students. Case in point - in order to go on the summer mission trips each year, each student is required to complete ten hours of service in some area of church ministry. It can be volunteering to work during the Parent's Night Out activities, or during Vacation Bible School, or for the monthly Love Granbury service project, but everyone is expected to complete the ten hours before they can go on mission trip. It's a little different with summer church camp, which is open to any and all who want to go. But Shelley and Ryan have been teaching our students that mission trip...going to serve others in some other location outside our own community...is a privilege, and as such, carries with it a higher degree of personal commitment. I love that! I love it because it's teaching our students the essence of their calling as Christ followers...to love and serve God by loving and serving others for His sake. And guess what - our students are responding. Yesterday and today, we had another opportunity for some of our students to come and complete their mission trip service hours by working on our church's children's playground. The old bark mulch in the entire playground area had to be turned so that it could dry, then there were 200 bags of new bark mulch that had to be spread. This isn't shrinking violet work by any means. It's hot, sweaty, physical work. But yet, there those students were, guys and girls, giving up two mornings of their summer, serving for the privilege to go and serve the children and families of inner-city Philadelphia in two weeks. And there were even a number of younger students who came to work who aren't even going on the high school mission trip...they just came to serve. To me, there is no more valuable lesson of Christian discipleship that our students can learn than this - that people are much more willing to lend you their ears, after you have given them a piece of your heart. Or, as one of my heroes of faith, Steve Sjogren, puts it...being the Good News before we tell the Good News.
Friday, July 11, 2008
The Onion and the Puppy.
The Onion:
"Can I step into your office?" - this is usually followed by heartache and sheer pain... and at times wells of tears pooling not sure if they can be released to flood every available space. Today's moments have included such conversations.... yet they were revolving. The individual would come and talk.... leave..... come and talk.... leave.... and so on. The layers of this onion are vast. It is a rather large onion even in the package it is wrapped in. And in the midst of the chaos that was today at the physical church building.... that did not stop the smell of each piece that was being diced up trying to decide what it was going to create.
At times an onion just needs someone to listen. Not necessarily have all the answers.. I consider it a privilege that this individual knows I am there for them. Yet, that is only a known factor because of the time invested in their life. It is like money that has been taken to the bank, deposited and growing interest. And yet, it is active as change jiggling in a pocket loose - not just merely sitting waiting for the day it will be withdrawn.
The Puppy:
It cracks me up at how often I explain this one. "The puppy" is not a small dog.... not a young dog..... normally when I say it. It can refer to a blog... but just as easily to a laptop or an article. And yes, the puppy was born yesterday. Thanks to all who have prayed about it being birthed! And have read it and sent your thoughts to me or told me in person.
More than that... it goes to show how prayers can be answered in such unexpected ways.... Who knew except The Father that the man who would ask me to consider writing with him would use the puppy too...... and funny enough..... the onion as well. I think it goes to show that The Father has a sense of humor too. I know my dear friend Steve Sjo. agrees and I am thrilled that he came knocking at my email door and invited me on another part of this continuing journey of sharing God's kindness and love with others.
In the post below I talked about being hit between the eyes. More of that is to come... as this puppy is going to show more layers of the onion and help peel them apart to create dishes that one can hopefully sink their teeth into. Maybe you'll even say, "Hey! If she can make it... any one can!"
It's okay to laugh people in the midst of being serious.
Wherever you are at this moment - you were just prayed for! And it is a sheer privilege!
Notice others. It really is as easy as pie. But please don't be square about it.
"Can I step into your office?" - this is usually followed by heartache and sheer pain... and at times wells of tears pooling not sure if they can be released to flood every available space. Today's moments have included such conversations.... yet they were revolving. The individual would come and talk.... leave..... come and talk.... leave.... and so on. The layers of this onion are vast. It is a rather large onion even in the package it is wrapped in. And in the midst of the chaos that was today at the physical church building.... that did not stop the smell of each piece that was being diced up trying to decide what it was going to create.
At times an onion just needs someone to listen. Not necessarily have all the answers.. I consider it a privilege that this individual knows I am there for them. Yet, that is only a known factor because of the time invested in their life. It is like money that has been taken to the bank, deposited and growing interest. And yet, it is active as change jiggling in a pocket loose - not just merely sitting waiting for the day it will be withdrawn.
The Puppy:
It cracks me up at how often I explain this one. "The puppy" is not a small dog.... not a young dog..... normally when I say it. It can refer to a blog... but just as easily to a laptop or an article. And yes, the puppy was born yesterday. Thanks to all who have prayed about it being birthed! And have read it and sent your thoughts to me or told me in person.
More than that... it goes to show how prayers can be answered in such unexpected ways.... Who knew except The Father that the man who would ask me to consider writing with him would use the puppy too...... and funny enough..... the onion as well. I think it goes to show that The Father has a sense of humor too. I know my dear friend Steve Sjo. agrees and I am thrilled that he came knocking at my email door and invited me on another part of this continuing journey of sharing God's kindness and love with others.
In the post below I talked about being hit between the eyes. More of that is to come... as this puppy is going to show more layers of the onion and help peel them apart to create dishes that one can hopefully sink their teeth into. Maybe you'll even say, "Hey! If she can make it... any one can!"
It's okay to laugh people in the midst of being serious.
Wherever you are at this moment - you were just prayed for! And it is a sheer privilege!
Notice others. It really is as easy as pie. But please don't be square about it.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Bull's Eye Conversations.
This morning I am taking an inventory of sort. Yesterday I had the privilege of spending some time with a few individuals. And are they ever making me think.
For weeks Brother G and I have been hearing about this man. We met him this past Sunday for the first time - immediate connection. Yesterday, he was at the physical church building again. As I came out into the hallway, I saw him... and it was if seeing an old friend. We hugged and hugged... and hugged some more. And then he did it - he started challenging the heck out of me. Oh, how he had me laughing. How we were laughing together.... That conversation still has me thinking.
Ishmael had a few others with him. I introduced myself to them and we talked some more about why they were there. I continued to talk with one of the men as we walked. Again, was challenged and spurred on. Hopefully, he received some encouragement from our talk as well. And yes, that conversation still has me thinking.
I came back to the highly secure gated community earlier than normal for a Wednesday. I was in need of some RQM (really quiet moments). I had spent a good amount of the day training the volunteer I have written about before. Brother G and I believe in training others to learn.... to do.... to teach... to give away... (Yes, I know that's why some think we need to be church planters!)
I wrote about the editor last week... in an email last night he told me to speak up. And I laughed and laughed. He also gave me some items to consider for the future. Again, that conversation still has me thinking.
Bull's eye conversations... It is necessary to take inventory.
To ask yourself those questions... and then actually do something with the answers.
More to come! I've been hit between the eyes. Have you?
For weeks Brother G and I have been hearing about this man. We met him this past Sunday for the first time - immediate connection. Yesterday, he was at the physical church building again. As I came out into the hallway, I saw him... and it was if seeing an old friend. We hugged and hugged... and hugged some more. And then he did it - he started challenging the heck out of me. Oh, how he had me laughing. How we were laughing together.... That conversation still has me thinking.
Ishmael had a few others with him. I introduced myself to them and we talked some more about why they were there. I continued to talk with one of the men as we walked. Again, was challenged and spurred on. Hopefully, he received some encouragement from our talk as well. And yes, that conversation still has me thinking.
I came back to the highly secure gated community earlier than normal for a Wednesday. I was in need of some RQM (really quiet moments). I had spent a good amount of the day training the volunteer I have written about before. Brother G and I believe in training others to learn.... to do.... to teach... to give away... (Yes, I know that's why some think we need to be church planters!)
I wrote about the editor last week... in an email last night he told me to speak up. And I laughed and laughed. He also gave me some items to consider for the future. Again, that conversation still has me thinking.
Bull's eye conversations... It is necessary to take inventory.
To ask yourself those questions... and then actually do something with the answers.
More to come! I've been hit between the eyes. Have you?
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Waiting in the Dark. Glorious Light.
Austin had a meeting tonight for the mission trip he is going on to Philly. I finally received a call saying he'd meet me in the front circle of the highly secure gated community. So, I headed out...
There are a couple of streets that go on and on for what seems like forever. Where we lay our heads down at night can be found on such a street. As I made a turn here, a turn there, went straight - I finally arrived in the place we said we'd meet. And I waited in the dark.
Funny enough..... the headlights were just bright enough to give light to some of the activity going on around me. A mother and her fawn were walking across the street as if they had no care in the world. And yet, after living here for a few years now - I know better. Cars and deer make for strange neighbors at times. And if you hit a deer - you get a ticket and an ambulance is sent out to pick it up. I kid you not.... weird.....
As I sat there watching them - I could not help but think about the parent/child relationship. It is no secret that we have very strong bonds with our sons. The last few months we've been going through some of the wildest times ever in our lives as a family. And yet, we've only become stronger. It has only strengthened us as Parker said it would.....
Austin finally arrived in the circle and got in to the vehicle I was in. As we were driving back - he could not help but go on and on about the upcoming trip. And in a very real sense - Austin is waiting in the dark. He has never been on an airplane before. He has never been that far away without his dad being on the trip also. Philly is totally different from Kentucky where he went last summer. Is that teenager ever excited..... even with not knowing fully what to expect.
There are real lessons that can be learned while waiting in the dark... in some ways it is like learning to walk after being paralyzed. I can still remember the looks on faces as I had to look straight ahead..... I can remember the doctor and nurses saying, "Keep your head up Camey.... Don't look down. If you do - you're going to lose your footing." I was like sheer jello..... all wobbly..... And yet, I was ever so excited.... even with not knowing fully what to expect. Even with the years that followed of on/off again paralysis and the gloom and doom diagnosis that was given. There was just as much light there even when being healed completely and all these years later. And yes, in being in the best health of my forty years of life.
I'm often asked how can I look at life in the moments like I do.... simple. The Father has shown me time and time that I do not wait in the dark alone. He provides enough light.... in His Love... through His Son..... and with Spirit. Holy.... Holy.... Spirit.
The glory in this life is Him.... in Him... through Him..... and it Glorious Light!
And there is more than enough to dance with even if a toe gets stepped on in the movements or even when held in His arms.
There are a couple of streets that go on and on for what seems like forever. Where we lay our heads down at night can be found on such a street. As I made a turn here, a turn there, went straight - I finally arrived in the place we said we'd meet. And I waited in the dark.
Funny enough..... the headlights were just bright enough to give light to some of the activity going on around me. A mother and her fawn were walking across the street as if they had no care in the world. And yet, after living here for a few years now - I know better. Cars and deer make for strange neighbors at times. And if you hit a deer - you get a ticket and an ambulance is sent out to pick it up. I kid you not.... weird.....
As I sat there watching them - I could not help but think about the parent/child relationship. It is no secret that we have very strong bonds with our sons. The last few months we've been going through some of the wildest times ever in our lives as a family. And yet, we've only become stronger. It has only strengthened us as Parker said it would.....
Austin finally arrived in the circle and got in to the vehicle I was in. As we were driving back - he could not help but go on and on about the upcoming trip. And in a very real sense - Austin is waiting in the dark. He has never been on an airplane before. He has never been that far away without his dad being on the trip also. Philly is totally different from Kentucky where he went last summer. Is that teenager ever excited..... even with not knowing fully what to expect.
There are real lessons that can be learned while waiting in the dark... in some ways it is like learning to walk after being paralyzed. I can still remember the looks on faces as I had to look straight ahead..... I can remember the doctor and nurses saying, "Keep your head up Camey.... Don't look down. If you do - you're going to lose your footing." I was like sheer jello..... all wobbly..... And yet, I was ever so excited.... even with not knowing fully what to expect. Even with the years that followed of on/off again paralysis and the gloom and doom diagnosis that was given. There was just as much light there even when being healed completely and all these years later. And yes, in being in the best health of my forty years of life.
I'm often asked how can I look at life in the moments like I do.... simple. The Father has shown me time and time that I do not wait in the dark alone. He provides enough light.... in His Love... through His Son..... and with Spirit. Holy.... Holy.... Spirit.
The glory in this life is Him.... in Him... through Him..... and it Glorious Light!
And there is more than enough to dance with even if a toe gets stepped on in the movements or even when held in His arms.
The Opportunities in Life
This morning I've been going over the G family's calendar for the next few weeks. And I cannot help but laugh again. For as much as we can make our own plans...... a lesson we've learned time and time again in life and living.
At 9:00 a.m. this morning, a man named Earl is coming to get Austin and Travis. They will be spending some quality time doing manual labor for him. Apparently there is a barn that needs cleaned out and some hay that needs to be bailed. This is definitely a new adventure for the boys. Until coming to G-town - they've been strictly city boys. We're thankful that Earl loves our family in such ways as to invest time in our sons' education and to be a man they know they can trust and look up to.
One thing that Brother G and I believe is that the moments of life are just as much as a classroom and provide opportunities for learning and development. School for our family is not some thing found on a calendar from August to May alone. It is life..... 24/7. It is noticing God... noticing others... and seizing the moments to serve.
For those who continue to ask me about the writing opportunity thingy.... I have submitted my first article after doing a complete rewrite. And while I still remain dumbfounded.... I am beyond grateful. As long as we have an Internet connection - I can write from anywhere... I'm often asked why I do not have a stat counter on this blog. It's not the number of hits that matter to me. It's being found faithful in serving The Father in the ways He provides. A part of the ministry I've been called to is encouraging others through the written word. For taking the moments of life and unwrapping them as the gifts that they are.... even cleaning toilets. Life is precious.... even the moments with pain. If one person gets encouragement..... if one person takes a step out of their comfort zone.... Priceless!
Brother G has given up some opportunities as of late. At first we thought they were due to a particular reason or two. Now, we're finding out there is more to the picture than we could have realized at the time. What all opportunities lie ahead? That remains to be seen. As his wife I am beyond grateful for how he is seizing the new ones coming his way. How he is willing to risk..... And yes, we're beyond excited to see how The Father is going to stretch us yet again.
Parker and I took some more free lunches to one of our sites yesterday afternoon. Upon getting out of the vehicle, I saw a familiar face walking up to me. Her name is Lori. She was one of the participants at a ministry I used to be on staff at a couple of years ago now. Lori hugged me and said, "Camey! I was going to call you. I passed the test!" What all else she said - I let stay between us. As we were walking up to where the food was to go... Parker said to me, "Mom? I'm glad you were one of ones that helped Lori. She used to look so sad." Talk about teachable moments. I was the education coordinator for that ministry. And yet, I can tell you without hesitation, I learned even more from the students than they did me. Seeds planted that are now growing trees that have roots. Praise God!
So, today... this moment.... I encourage you to look around your moments at the opportunities in life that The Father has presented to you.....
Are you going to keep them in the box because they look so pretty?
Or are you going to rip that bow off and discover what is inside just waiting to pop out?
At 9:00 a.m. this morning, a man named Earl is coming to get Austin and Travis. They will be spending some quality time doing manual labor for him. Apparently there is a barn that needs cleaned out and some hay that needs to be bailed. This is definitely a new adventure for the boys. Until coming to G-town - they've been strictly city boys. We're thankful that Earl loves our family in such ways as to invest time in our sons' education and to be a man they know they can trust and look up to.
One thing that Brother G and I believe is that the moments of life are just as much as a classroom and provide opportunities for learning and development. School for our family is not some thing found on a calendar from August to May alone. It is life..... 24/7. It is noticing God... noticing others... and seizing the moments to serve.
For those who continue to ask me about the writing opportunity thingy.... I have submitted my first article after doing a complete rewrite. And while I still remain dumbfounded.... I am beyond grateful. As long as we have an Internet connection - I can write from anywhere... I'm often asked why I do not have a stat counter on this blog. It's not the number of hits that matter to me. It's being found faithful in serving The Father in the ways He provides. A part of the ministry I've been called to is encouraging others through the written word. For taking the moments of life and unwrapping them as the gifts that they are.... even cleaning toilets. Life is precious.... even the moments with pain. If one person gets encouragement..... if one person takes a step out of their comfort zone.... Priceless!
Brother G has given up some opportunities as of late. At first we thought they were due to a particular reason or two. Now, we're finding out there is more to the picture than we could have realized at the time. What all opportunities lie ahead? That remains to be seen. As his wife I am beyond grateful for how he is seizing the new ones coming his way. How he is willing to risk..... And yes, we're beyond excited to see how The Father is going to stretch us yet again.
Parker and I took some more free lunches to one of our sites yesterday afternoon. Upon getting out of the vehicle, I saw a familiar face walking up to me. Her name is Lori. She was one of the participants at a ministry I used to be on staff at a couple of years ago now. Lori hugged me and said, "Camey! I was going to call you. I passed the test!" What all else she said - I let stay between us. As we were walking up to where the food was to go... Parker said to me, "Mom? I'm glad you were one of ones that helped Lori. She used to look so sad." Talk about teachable moments. I was the education coordinator for that ministry. And yet, I can tell you without hesitation, I learned even more from the students than they did me. Seeds planted that are now growing trees that have roots. Praise God!
So, today... this moment.... I encourage you to look around your moments at the opportunities in life that The Father has presented to you.....
Are you going to keep them in the box because they look so pretty?
Or are you going to rip that bow off and discover what is inside just waiting to pop out?
Monday, July 7, 2008
On Marriage.... in Ministry..
Brother G has left for the day.... He is in a meeting this morning in another city. As he was preparing to walk out the door..... we held hands and prayed. And we both got misty..... yes, that is safe to say.
I'm often asked how does it work when both the spouses have been called to ministry... are surrendered to God. For us, we cannot imagine it any other way. I think at times the one thing that most do not understand is that we truly are a team. I will follow that man of mine any where..... even if it were to mean giving up parts of what has been ministry for me thus far.... For like Brother G flat out told a church back a few months ago.... For us... it's God first... our marriage second... and then our sons... Any other order - he is not the man for that church...
As Brother G prayed this morning.... he talked about being broken vessels in The Father's hands. He also talked about how thankful we are for how our marriage continues to grow and strengthen over time. As we stood there holding hands - I had my head leaned up against his chest..... and I could hear his heartbeat. And I know without question whom it truly beats for.... I would not want to be first any moment of the day. Nor would he for me....
For you see.... one thing Brother G and I believe 100% - the most important relationship any one can ever have is with The Father..... with Jesus.... I do not complete Brother G... nor does Brother G complete me... nor do our sons... or any other thing we possibly ever do.
If marriage is to not only to survive the pressures of ministry but truly thrive..... The Father as the head of the triangle is a necessity.... not a luxury.
I'm often asked how does it work when both the spouses have been called to ministry... are surrendered to God. For us, we cannot imagine it any other way. I think at times the one thing that most do not understand is that we truly are a team. I will follow that man of mine any where..... even if it were to mean giving up parts of what has been ministry for me thus far.... For like Brother G flat out told a church back a few months ago.... For us... it's God first... our marriage second... and then our sons... Any other order - he is not the man for that church...
As Brother G prayed this morning.... he talked about being broken vessels in The Father's hands. He also talked about how thankful we are for how our marriage continues to grow and strengthen over time. As we stood there holding hands - I had my head leaned up against his chest..... and I could hear his heartbeat. And I know without question whom it truly beats for.... I would not want to be first any moment of the day. Nor would he for me....
For you see.... one thing Brother G and I believe 100% - the most important relationship any one can ever have is with The Father..... with Jesus.... I do not complete Brother G... nor does Brother G complete me... nor do our sons... or any other thing we possibly ever do.
If marriage is to not only to survive the pressures of ministry but truly thrive..... The Father as the head of the triangle is a necessity.... not a luxury.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
"How Do We Pray?"
This question has been asked of me over and over the last few days...
I've debated with myself over answering it here or not.... Then, I received a comment on the post below this afternoon. About the time I was going to respond to it..... Travis came and asked me if we could go see if the pool was open. So, I shut this puppy down and grabbed Trav and Park and off we went. (Note to Kevin: That means I signed out of blogger.)
As I watched them together in the deep end....... I just listened....
As I watched them dive off the board time and time again..... I listened....
As I noticed how they swim now compared to days gone by...... I listened even more....
Brother G and I are incredibly grateful for all the prayers and for the love they represent.
As for an answer....
We want to be found faithful. Wherever... however..... Doors closing. Doors opening.
As tomorrow comes..... That's especially how you can pray for us.
For now.... it's time for some moments with the man I will go any where with.
Signed,
Walking by Faith
I've debated with myself over answering it here or not.... Then, I received a comment on the post below this afternoon. About the time I was going to respond to it..... Travis came and asked me if we could go see if the pool was open. So, I shut this puppy down and grabbed Trav and Park and off we went. (Note to Kevin: That means I signed out of blogger.)
As I watched them together in the deep end....... I just listened....
As I watched them dive off the board time and time again..... I listened....
As I noticed how they swim now compared to days gone by...... I listened even more....
Brother G and I are incredibly grateful for all the prayers and for the love they represent.
As for an answer....
We want to be found faithful. Wherever... however..... Doors closing. Doors opening.
As tomorrow comes..... That's especially how you can pray for us.
For now.... it's time for some moments with the man I will go any where with.
Signed,
Walking by Faith
Saturday, July 5, 2008
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.....
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.....
Friday, July 4, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
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.
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)
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)
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
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.
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.
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.
Monday, June 30, 2008
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!!!!
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!!!!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
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......
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......
Saturday, June 28, 2008
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?
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?
Friday, June 27, 2008
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 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!
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!
Thursday, June 26, 2008
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...
"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.
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.
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