Have Jesus. Will Travel.

Back years ago there was a TV show called "Have Gun. Will Travel". The premise of the show was that the lead character had a gun and wasn't afraid to use it. He would travel wherever there was an enemy that needed to be taken care of. Some times he used his gun. Other times, there was no real need.

Each of the G family believes in God and His Son, Jesus. We know the power of the Holy Spirit and have seen first-hand how mountains can be moved or danced on top of. We also know the value of the valleys and the deserts. We know the power of grace, mercy, forgiveness, and especially of God's love for each one of us.

Tomorrow morning, we leave out on a 9 day Mission Trip to Idaho with a group of peeps from our local church body. We will be going to serve with another church in another state all because of God's love first. We will be loving on that community there with far more than we alone are capable of in our own strength. Sharing Jesus

Also during this time, I will be taking a sabby (unplugged) from facebook. One of the "safeguards" I have in place is not utilizing facebook via my cell phone. No facebook. This time away is necessary in order to be fully engaged where I will be and whom I will be with. What an incredible opportunity it is to go with Parker's age group on a Mission Trip as a family! Yes, I said "Parker's age group!" We're talking 10, 11 and 12-year-olds. And while facebook is a part of ministry for me.... I will be with 4 of my favorite individuals in the whole wide world (Dick, Austin, Travis and Parker). We haven't been away together for longer than 3 days since 2005. Facebook will carry on just fine without me as well the pcb and G-town, Texas.

We are lifestyle missionaries. Some times that means sharing God's love here locally.. other times it means traveling to places we might not go on our own. Why? Because God loved first. We have the Best News there is! There is no one or no thing better! No voice as precious and priceless as His.

We have Jesus. We will travel wherever He leads us. Tomorrow it is at every place we stop at to use the potty, get some thing to eat, where we stop to sleep in Wyoming... and then the same on Sunday as we end up in Idaho. The Mission Trip doesn't start on Monday. It has actually already started. And we believe as Christ-followers - every single day there are opportunities to engage the Holy Spirit already at work in the lives of those we encounter.

We greatly appreciate all the individuals whom have been praying for us and we know will continue to while we're gone. We ask that you also pray for my mom during this time as well. We serve God first and foremost even if that means leaving her here. No one is more trustworthy than God no matter what happens in life's moments.

So..... Do you have Jesus? If so, are you willing to travel? Across the street, on the other side of town, across the Country in which you live and/or across the world?

If you don't know Jesus.. He is right there just waiting for you to meet Him. He will meet you right where you are no matter where that might be.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for! Dangerous indeed. And thank you for the privilege of being in your life's moments however that may be.

Much love,
Camey


PS: The Only Real Freedom in life's moments come from knowing God through His Son, Jesus.

PSS: Yes, I'm fully aware that Spiritual Warfare is going to increase - not decrease! ;-)

On the Front Lines - Part II

This is the latest update from our missionary son, Austin.

"Several kids came to Christ at Rob & Carolin's site. Spiritual victory was achieved at that place. Ryan has returned with his whole family being healed. My sites are running well and both groups of teenagers have been incredible. I have been significantly re hydrated and feeling much better. Trav's sunburn has not gotten worse. We are entering the exhaustion phase of the trip and already I'm seeing irritability with students. Pray that we would not succumb to sleepy sillies - that we would remain attentive and alert as these last days continue."

Thank you to those whom are praying! Please keep it up! Their days there are non-stop once they are awake until they hit the hay.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for too.

Much love,
Camey

On the Front Lines - Mission Trip Update

Austin, Travis, and several other individuals from our local church body are on a Middle School Mission Trip this week. After the two text messages I received from Austin last night, I decided to bring it to those of you who pray for prayer.

"My two VBS sites are easy. Ran the best VBS day ever in the morning for me. Afternoon for me is slightly more challenging but still easy. Focus your prayers on Rob and Carolin's group. Rob said he had the hardest group in his life and the reps there say it is their number 1 hardest site. 40+ kids, fights, drug deals - Travis is on the front lines with a bright red face. Also every single person on this trip is experiencing some form of dehydration at the moment. Nobody is dangerously dehydrated but with the heat - it was 103 today - we are very hard pressed for water. Pray that God presses us to drink water!"

For clarification purposes... Austin and Carolin are the 2 high school student leaders on this mission trip. Rob is one of the adults. Travis just finished middle school.

As I said in my last note, this is one of Austin and Trav's favorite places to serve at. They go any time they are able. You might be asking, "Camey? After those types of updates, aren't you tempted to go get your sons and bring them home since they're not an hour or so more away. Aren't you scared for your sons?" Let me answer that straight from the heart.... No. They are there because of God's love first and then because they were sent there this week. They belong to God far more than to me/us.

This is not just an update for prayer for Austin, Travis and those they are with. This is call to prayer for where they are at. For the individuals there who do not know God's love intimately. May lives be touched and real transformation start through the power of Jesus' name and Holy Spirit.

Yes, I realize that calling people to prayer over this puts even more of a bull eyes on our sons and those they are with. And they wouldn't have it any other way. Life's moments are not meant to be lived on the balancing beam holding on for dear life.

So, dear reader, if you claim to be a Christ-follower, let me ask you this....

How long has it been since you've been on the front lines?

In order to be so, you have to move beyond your self and your own comfort zones.

You do not have to go to a big city or even to another Country..

Some times all you have to do is walk across the room.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for!

More updates to come.

Much love,
Camey

PS: And yes for those that asked. This is the same place the G family went on the Monday before Christmas as part of our gifts to each other. The gift of serving others side by side

That's Crazy Love For Ya!

One of the G family's favorite communicators is Francis Chan. Austin, Travis, and some silly woman they claim as "Mom" had the privilege of hearing him live back a couple of months ago at an all day event called Ignite with a few peeps we love and hundreds of others we love through Jesus. I purposefully haven't spoken much about that day online until now because it was hard to put in to words. I know.. hard to imagine for a writer right? Indeed it was, but not now.

Today is Austin's last day at the little store here in the highly secure gated community. He has been there since September of 2007. It was his very first paying job at sixteen. Tomorrow he and Travis leave on yet another mission trip until Thursday evening. They are going to one of their favorite places to serve. They will sweat like dogs, love on whomever is willing to be so, and literally be the hands and feet of Jesus with the others serving there. You could be wondering, "Camey? Silly woman.. what do those things have to do with hearing Francis Chan and Ignite?" Simple.

As we were listening to Francis, the weather was exceedingly stormy. It was raining. We had taken cover numerous times throughout the day and evening. There were times when we were tempted to leave, but knew in the long run - it would be worth staying until the very end. Francis spoke passionately about the fire being ignited inside of us for God's glory. About not playing it safe! When some thing is ignited it can be very dangerous! ;-) There were candles lit as well. Some lost their flame. Others - the flame wouldn't be snuffed out. The light was unstoppable!

When Francis was done, Kari Jobe and Chris Tomlin led us in an incredible time of sheer worship. When time came for the last song, "Sing. Sing. Sing." - we were asked to turn around and look up in the sky. And with all those hundreds of individuals who had chosen to stay, and those whom we had come with... I worshipped my Real Father with two of my brothers who also happened to be my sons. In the sky, there was the most fantastic firework display we've ever seen! Ever! It remains some of the most powerful moments of worship for me. I knew without a shadow of a doubt that this summer was going to be different. Not that they haven't done the mission trip thing during other summers, but not like this summer. And I also knew that between that time and now, our lives would be changing in ways I'm not at liberty to fully talk about just yet.

I mentioned in another post not long ago that Austin has also been praying about other mission trips. Today, we received an answer to that prayer. Austin will be heading back out of the Country in a few months for his 18th birthday present to share the love of Jesus. And of course, there's the mission trip all five of us are going on from July 4th to 12th to Idaho.

As Travis has been helping me with the laundry needed for their trip and as Austin is finishing his last day at the little store, their dad is about to punch out from his last Saturday at Wal-Mart. His last official day is this Thursday.

Parker said to me earlier today, "Mom? Our family is being moved in ways that are obvious it has to be God!" Tomorrow as we celebrate Father's Day.... our family can say without hesitation it is a Crazy Love that moves us beyond ourselves. And while Dick is a wonderful dad.. he in no way can compare to God, our Father. Neither can Arthur, nor could Larry.

Life's moments can be lived on the balancing beam holding on for dear life in fear of falling off!

We've jumped down knowing that we are in His hands.

For that's where Real Life is found... Trusting in Him instead of ourselves.

And as always, dear reader, you've been prayed for!

Thank you to those whom have been praying and will continue to.

Much love,
Camey

For the Glory of the Lord - We Will Never Be the Same Part II

This morning I cannot help but praise God for this past week! Here's just a tad:

1) People came to Jesus! Individuals like Matthew..... Dylan also came to Jesus. Dylan has played softball with us on Tuesday nights. Praise God!!

2) Lives were ruined for Him! Absolutely.. totally... ruined! Yep, I could write a book on this alone.

3) On the same day hubby gave notice at Wal-Mart, Austin was officially going to Idaho with us in July. We are going there on a mission trip to share and show God's love. And all 5 of our ways there are already paid for as of last night!

4) This morning, Austin has given his 2 week notice at the little store here in the highly secure gated community he has worked at since turning 16. He will be 18 in September.

5) Travis.... well... this goes back to #2. I won't go into much detail here on purpose but to say that we are NOT surprised in the slightest by what happened with him and through him by the power of the Holy Spirit. In fact, it is exactly an answer to dangerous prayers his mama has been praying for him. Yes, I know my sons that well. And I have never been more thankful and grateful to be his mama, but more importantly, his sister-in-Christ. There is no relationship more important than with God/Jesus. None.

6) Last night as we were hanging out as a family - we experienced the wildest weather we ever have. Yep... even Austin and Travis said it was more intense than Wednesday night when they were in Denton. As it was happening, Austin got out his guitar and the two of us started singing. After it was over.. and given that our electricity was off... we went to check on neighbors and to determine what damage could be seen. This is where knowing your neighbors BEFORE the storm hits that makes a huge difference. The electricity came back on at 11:30 p.m. and in the light of day this morning... there is more to clean up as expected. Austin was talking with Shirley who lives across the street 2 doors down. He said, "This is what Jesus would have done." Shirley replied, "He went about helping those in need." Shirley is a widow along with being our neighbor.

7) Our local church body is part of a group of individuals feeding children this summer. It is the 3rd summer we've done so 5 days a week. The group has already served more in the 1st week than in 3 weeks last summer! Did you catch that? More in the 1st week than in 3 weeks? I could tell you story after story... in fact, be watching for stories! Lives are being impacted. And it's not just those who are being fed either. Funny how that happens.

8) And like a flood, His mercy rains. It is Amazing Grace. And this morning, I am praising God for how we will never be the same. We have not arrived... life's moments are the journey as well as the classroom.

And dear reader, thank you for being a part of life's moments here through this blog and however else you may be now or have been in the past as well.

You have been prayed for. Thank you to all whom have been praying... don't stop!

Much love,
Camey

For the Glory of the Lord - We Will Never Be the Same

This note is in response to the numerous questions I've been receiving lately about what's going on with us these days. Some things I can answer in this note today... others are still going to have to wait.

The last couple of months have been some of our most intense ones yet. The last two weeks in particular have been moving to say the least. Moving? Yes, moving! This is going to be written in a different fashion than most of my notes on purpose. And yes, some of the questions people ask me make me think twice about my being called, "The Questionator!" ;-)

"Why have you and Parker been going down and laying stones at the foot of the cross the last two weeks?

Answer: We are intentionally laying stones as a Spiritual Marker of what is happening in our own lives and for what is happening in G-town, what is going to happen in Idaho in July, and for Illinois. The stones also represented each one of the three boys and every one connected to them already and yet to be! Here locally, in this Country, and around the world - Revival and Spiritual Awakening!

"Why is Austin on the fast track to graduate high school in December instead of May?"

Answer: December is when his dad will be finished with his schooling. Since Austin "does" high school like he does - after much prayer and discussion, it is clear... he needs to be freed up come January.

"Where is Austin going after graduating high school?"

Answer: That remains to be seen. Austin surrendered to God and full-time ministry well over a year ago now. While there is a call upon his life to go to Japan at some point as a lifestyle missionary... It's safe to say, where we go next will help direct where he does.

"Where are you guys going?"

Answer: We're still praying about that one. Doors more than appear to be opening. I'll be bold enough to say we're asking God to smack us up side of the head. In His love, smacks are well worth it. So are gentle whispers that come through listening during the early hours of the morning or before going to bed at night. As a wife, mother, and sister-in-Christ.... I am so incredibly grateful for the time that hubby and I spend in prayer together. Funny how that happens.

"Where is Austin this week?"

Austin is at Student Camp. He is a part of the Student Ministry Leadership Team. Travis will be joining him today as well as 120 something other peeps. Please pray for all there this week! That they will hear directly from God and they will be ruined because of it.

As for Austin, he is currently praying about more travel in the next few months as the missionary that he already is. Pray he hears clearly about that too.

"What's up with 'quitting' or 'giving notice' about things?"

Hubby will be leaving Wal-Mart here in the next couple of weeks. This is an effort to not keep a job that someone else needs more than he does. It is also to free him up as well in different ways. As for giving notice about not teaching the "18 to 25 somethings".... still teaching until newbies are found. This is an effort for this group to expand and grow in ways that we are not able to at this point in things. It is also to free us up when the time does come to leave here.

Okay... That's just a tad of what's happening with us these days. Thank you to those whom are praying and will continue to do so. For those behind the scenes - we pray you have some clue how much your friendships mean to us. We are beyond grateful.....

For the glory of the Lord, we will never be the same! Talk about being beyond thankful...

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for... dangerous indeed.

Much love,
Tis better to serve than be served

Love God. Love People. Praise God!

Revealing Gifts!

It started off like most of my Sunday mornings here lately especially with an incredible time of personal worship and studying God's Word before leaving the house. Parker, Travis and I headed to the physical church building full of excitement over what the day had in store! Anticipation was in the air!

Our 18 to 25-yr-old Bible study group meets at our 9:00 a.m. hour. In the hallway outside of the room where we gather, one of our "Greeters" introduced me to a new friend for the group. The next few minutes are sort of a blur as I ditched what I planned on teaching to go for what Spirit directed me to instead. Intense time as I heard, "That was what I need to hear!" by the new friend. Did I mention I taught on recognizing and listening to The Spirit?

As she and I were standing in the main entrance of the physical church building after group time was over, I decided to make a trip to the women's restroom. There is no bath... therefore, not a bathroom. :-) I had taken care of my "everybody potties" (cue the Elmo song please) moment and was heading back to the new friend when one of my most embarrassing moments happen. From what seemed like out of the blue to me, I was tackled from behind by a woman I did not know. Apparently, I was revealing far more of myself than I should have been. And people wonder why I don't wear skirts often. No mystery there now.

I proceeded to walk a bit farther when she tackled me again. Apparently, my first attempt to rectify the issue wasn't enough. And in the corner of my eye, I saw one of the servant men of our church trying really hard to keep his composure. In a funny and yet tender couple of moments, he shared with me how he was preparing to come to my aid before the woman did. He also told me a hilarious story about his granny in an effort to make me not feel as embarrassed.

The new friend and I walked in to what is known as our “Worship Center”. I saw the woman and what I assumed to be her husband walk in ahead of us and sit down. I told the new friend to hang on a moment so that I could thank the woman again for her kindness to an apparent stranger. I knew I did not recognize the woman.

I walked up behind the woman and her husband and leaned in. I told her how much I appreciated her being willing to help me even though she didn’t know me. I told her my name again and asked her last name. She had only introduced herself as Martha before – the 1st time I thanked her. Needless to say, she was no real stranger as she and I had had an in-depth conversation on the phone on Friday. I took the time to tell her that I prayed for her about our conversation upon hanging up the phone. She and her husband both got all teary-eyed and thanked me for my kindness in doing so. She proceeded to share with me a bit of what had transpired since our conversation. And I was thankful yet again.

Was what happened to me in the main entrance of the physical church building one of my most embarrassing moments? Yes, without question. But honestly, it was worth it. For in it was revealing gifts to be treasured. It also reminded of how thankful I am to be able to walk and use the restroom seemingly all by myself again. Even though I know I’m never alone. And it told some grandparents they aren’t either.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for! And it was dangerously revealing!

Much love,
Camey

Taught Backwards; Living Forward

That quote was used last night at a graduation ceremony my family was at. I frankly do not remember who said it as I was struck by it so intensely at the moment. And this morning, as I sat down to write... it fit as the title! Funny how that happens.

This past week, we received a letter that we are needing to have a meeting about Parker's absences. And while it got this "Mama Bear" in a roar for a brief period of time... I am not at all concerned about it. I stand by not being a "fan" of the public school system. But I remain grateful and thankful for it as well. Again, funny how that can happen.

It did make me think about the past. Especially our decision to take Austin out of public school back when he was in the 7th grade. I remember so clearly walking into the school office and saying, "I'm here to withdraw Austin. He is going to be homeschooled." I remember the looks on the faces of the women I had come to know by first names and voices as well as by faces. I was told, "From what we've known about your family over the years, we would have been disappointed if you had NOT made this decision. Austin is too smart of a kid to be held back because of absences. If we can help you in any way - we are here for you!" We started homeschooling the very next day. The very next one...

Funny thing about homeschooling Austin? That was my plan all along. I never had any intentions of him or any of our sons (3 total - Travis and Parker too) going to public school. Fortunately, I was so incredibly wrong. WHAT??? Did I just say I was "incredibly wrong"??? Yes, I did and with a deep smile on my face too! For homeschooling our sons was not God's plan. His plan is always better than mine. Any single day.

Homeschooling all 3 sons would not have been possible during the years I was ill. Notice - it was after being healed in 03 that I was allowed to homeschool him. And in him being homeschooled - he has had opportunities that would not have been possible otherwise! Especially after moving to where we live currently and then becoming a part of a "homeschooling co-op" at our physical church building. God's paint brush strokes are so evident on that. The picture is filled with bright colors and immense details. After much prayer & discussion, Austin will be finishing high school at the end of this December. Not possible if he had remained in public school. Make no mistake about it though.. not all who attend the "homeschooling co-op" are Christ-followers or have any real local church association other than they come to a building known as one 3 days a week.

Travis and Parker at one time had been asked if they wanted to be homeschooled too after I was completely healed physically in 03. They did not want to be. Why? As lifestyle missionaries - they wanted to remain a light in public schools. And they are! I could share story after story... but God knows all those. And that's enough for me/us.

Austin surrendered to full-time ministry and God well over a year ago now. He has had the opportunities to develop skills in sound, lighting, video, and etc. during our years with our current church. He has taught Bible classes, gone on trips to share God's love, shared God's love here locally, and has discipled and mentored younger guys as well. Just to name a portion. And yes, I am saying, "current church" on purpose.

Life's moments are the classroom. Each and every single one of them. As Christ-followers we were never told to turn over the education of one or all of our children to someone else completely... God is The Foremost Teacher as in/through Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit and of course His Living Word - The Bible. Parents are next - whether good or bad or in-between. The church should be next. And then any other ones. It is not up to the public school system, a homeschool co-op, a private school or the church alone to educate our sons. That is not God's plan.

I am so thankful for the lessons I've learned as a result of three sons that God entrusted to this silly woman and my goofy hubby. For He knew how much we would have to rely on Him and get on our knees! And put band aids on knees too. He knew the tears, the laughter, and etc. Priceless education!

So, as the G family is "living forward" and is in prayer about it.... we remain grateful for what we have been taught backwards. For those who are praying with us and for us... thank you for investing in our family and God's kingdom!

As always, dear reader, dangerous prayers have been said on your behalf!

Much love,
Camey

Dangerous Prayers!

Over the course of the last few weeks, I've had several individuals inquire about "dangerous prayers". I thought I would take a bit of time today to explain and to share a tad of what is going on these days in our life's moments.

Some time ago, God really convicted me about my praying life. Notice - I did not say my prayer time? Praying cannot help but draw one closer to God. And praying should never be just about ones own life. Praying for other individuals is a privilege and a pleasure even if what is going on in their life's moments are wrecked with pain or the happiest of times or in-between. Just like it should be with our own.

In praying dangerous prayers - I ask God to make Himself known to my self and others in ways that there can be no doubt that it is Him. That wherever one is at, whatever doing or have done - to know God's presence and His love personally. Dangerous prayers involves risk. It involves not staying the same but being moved beyond ones own self. To see those around them as God does. To go where they themselves might not ever want to go on their own.

Over the last few months - I've had some of the most intense moments spent in prayer. Some praising God, thanking Him. Others - listening and not talking. And of course, conversing with my Father. The One who is in first place in my life. In truth, some of most intense ones have happen the last two weeks - especially while hubby was in Illinois.

I have not been called to the wisdom of this world. I have been called to love God and love people. To minister to the seen and unseen wherever they may be. To make the Gospel known and alive and breathing. And my husband has been called to the same. Our family has. When we walked away from the life we had known Memorial Day weekend back in 2005 - make no mistake about it... we were sent to where we are currently. I would have never come here on my own as so many of you know. For in coming here - it meant my parents were no longer able to live on their own. It would mean at some point my daddy going to Heaven as he did in Nov of 06. It would mean being back in the daily grind of living with my mom who suffers with mental illness. Again, I would have never come here on my own. I came... we came because we were sent. We live sent. That's what I mean by lifestyle missionary. And it is dangerous. It caused us to give away and/or sell almost every single thing we had the pleasure of being entrusted to us... a house, one of two vehicles, a dog, a church body we had loved for 15 years and had served with and seen our sons come to know Jesus personally, being baptized, and etc. Not to mention saying goodbye to dear friends who had been such a part of our life's moments on a daily basis as well as hubby's job with the same company for 17 years. And yes, to insurance even.

My husband left last Saturday for Illinois to preach, teach, minister and etc. to another church body and community there. This was the 3rd time he has been sent there since we've been here. I knew before he left - this time was different through praying. And it was.... and is... Our hearts have been stirred again. We have clearly known God's presence more than ever before and have heard Him speaking in our lives and out of them. And God has used others in ways that are beyond words. To all those whom have been praying - thank you... and please do not stop now.

So, dear reader, I ask you.... if you claim to be a Christ-follower or a Christian, how is your praying life?

If God asked you to give up and leave the life you know currently - would you be willing to do so?

When others hear your name do they think of how you show God's love or do they wonder if you even know Him at all?

What do you need to pray dangerous prayers about? For it is not some thing only a woman named Camey can do.

And remember - any time you think I'm pointing fingers at you... I've got some pointing right back at me.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for. And it IS dangerous indeed.

Much love,
Camey

Speaking His Language

The sun is setting through the window as I write.

On my mind are the little boy & girl I held in my arms today.

We had never met before & yet were not strangers.

I had prayed for them earlier in the day - long before I knew we were going to meet.

It's called being in the here/now and yet in the there/then.

Only possible with Holy Spirt.

I alone am incapable.

Safety vs Dangerous!

This morning I was praying about what to post. I knew it was to be on "Safety vs Dangerous"... Funny enough? A dear friend of ours (Bill - aka cycleguy) posted a video on his blog that his daughter (Tami) had sent him.

You can check it out by clicking on the title of this post.

While you're there.. drop Bill a comment and tell him I sent you if you have a moment.

Why is it funny that our dear friend Bill posted this video on a morning when I was going to post on "safety vs dangerous"???? We've never met face to face. YET! We only know each other through blogging and emails and PRAYERS. And yet, the connection is that of Real Family. Why? Because of God. How? God's love.

I'm often asked about why I pray dangerous prayers and why I talk about our sons being "brothers in Christ" being more important than our children. Not long ago I had a few people upset with me that I said I would have been disappointed in Austin if he had not gone in to that liquor store in Belize. He knew God wanted him to go in to that liquor store. To not go would have been "playing it safe!"

This past weekend - we had our annual "Kindness Explosion" where we showed God's love all over this town and surrounding communities most of which are "highly secure gated communities"... (read: people live inside the gates just like outside.)I could share tons of stories with you about how we saw God move because of individuals willing to not play it safe! I could also share about a wreck that happened.. (Tip: When using signs to advertise "Free Car Washes!" watch where drivers might be needing to stop and/or turn.) Fortunately, no one was hurt!

If you're a Christ-follower...

God didn't call us to live a life of safety!

He didn't call us to stay locked up in our homes.

He called us to be lifestyle missionaries - each and every single one of us.

Wherever life takes you - share God's love! Use words if necessary!

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for!

Much love,
Camey

PS: And if you're reading this and you are not a Christ-follower... I hope you notice God today no matter your circumstances!

April 15, 2009 - Dead Wrong Part II

In the last post, I wrote about being "Dead Wrong" and how I wanted to leave this town almost a year ago now. I shared about being hurt then and wanting to retreat. Yesterday, is proof positive yet again, that I would have missed out on the best year thus far and the first few months of 09.

I was told that I was silly for wanting a milkshake from the Braum's that was having its Opening Day. "A milkshake for your birthday? Wow, Camey! You're cheap!" Oh, but in order to have that milkshake - my incredible hubby, Dick, had to do something he normally does not want to. Let's just say he's not a fan of going somewhere on its Grand Opening! Out of his love for me, and given the fact that we didn't go to a Braum's like we normally do when celebrating the anniversary of the day we met (April 10th, 1988), he was more than willing to go. Best milkshake I've had since the one a friend held for me to drinkI in a hospital years ago when I could not hold it on my own. Okay.. call me silly.

I was also asked why I did not take off. I'm at the pcb for 11 to 12 hours normally on Wednesdays. Simply put.. to have taken off and been any where else would not have been celebrating the life that I am so blessed with. I spent time with individuals that this time last year - I did not even know or was just meeting. I also spent time with many whom are dear friends and have taught me more than they could ever realize. I had encounters with individuals that were coming to the pcb that normally do not. Again, feel free to call me silly.

There are other things about the day I could share with you.. like how I am so thankful for all the friends that I have all over the world. How you've each shown me God in ways that you might not ever understand. Or if you did.. you might agree and call us both silly.

Like I said yesterday, the best gift of all is God's love. And even though there might be a lot of "I" in this post.... please realize - there is far more of Him than silly o' me. The evidence speaks for itself....

And again, I'm so thankful to have been dead wrong. W-R-O-N-G can end up being more than right.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for.

Much love,
Camey

PS: there's also a free concert the G family is going to on Saturday, 26th for my birthday... Silly again.. free, one of our favorite singers, and worshipping God with my hubby and three sons. Somethings one simply cannot put a price tag on!

Dead Wrong

This morning I received a phone call from someone who has become a dear friend. He was checking in to see when the G family would be arriving at a place he arranged for us due to the septic system being replaced. The septic guys haven't even showed up yet..looking like it won't be until tomorrow at the earliest at this point. And I am thankful. Why? It serves as a great reminder of a lesson involving this same dear friend and the year of 2008 as a whole.

2008 was a hard year in many ways. At one point, I was beyond ready to leave this town. I had been hurt by a couple of people and was ready to retreat. Utterly ready to leave the town I had once said I would never come to. I am so thankful that Dick kept listening to God and knew it would be the wrong thing for us to do. He knew it. I had to accept it. We weren't leaving then. I couldn't fathom why at the time. Remember... I was hurt. That should have been reason enough right? Nope.

Over the course of the last year, I have sought God more so than I ever have before in my life. And when given the chance to really work through things with one of the people involved, I decided to put myself to the test. What do I mean? I was willing to be hurt even more if that was what it took. Talk about staying on my knees.

A couple of months ago, this now dear friend and I really started talking again. Not surface talk... really talking. He admitted to me that he was taking his anger out on me because of what I represented to him at the time. Once he realized he needed to start working on his anger and why he was angry to begin with - he realized how much he had hurt me in the process. And talk about being sorry. No doubt I have forgiven him as has he forgiven me for my no longer wanting to be around him then. I judged what I did not understand. Dang...

Honesty need not be feared. Had this one particular dear friend and I not been totally honest with each other, we both would have been dead wrong. And we would have missed out on the sheer blessings we now know. And to top that off, I would have missed out on one of the best years and the first few months of 09!

Who are you dead wrong about?

And if you think there's no one... Perhaps you need to check your pulse.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for!

Much love,
Camey

They Can't Teach That At Seminary

This was actually written last Thursday. Watch for new posts this week!
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This morning I wrote a new post with the same title. Before I had finished and saved it, I hit a wrong button and "Poof" it was gone. This afternoon, I had to laugh at that. This morning.. well, I was a little bummed. Funny what a few hours can do for you.

Some time ago, a man asked me to pray for his grandson. He took off his mask for a bit and shared with me the hurts and pains his grandson was experiencing. Some by his grandson's own choices and others -not. Most who know us both would never realize the deep relationship we have with each other. A relationship that was truly birthed through prayer. Once upon a time this same man had prayed for my physical healing. We did not even know each other face to face at that time. He knew of and about me through my dad, Larry. I was greatly touched he would share with me about his grandson and ask me to pray. Little did we both know then....

Jeremy got to the point where he was living with his grandparents off and on. I met him one night and introduced myself. I also shared with him that I had been praying for him at his grandfather's request. He told me he knew my relationship with his grandfather must be special for him to do that. I invited him to come to the Sunday small group I (hubby too when available) teach for 18 to 25 yr olds. He smiled and said he would think about it.

Jeremy started coming to the group off and on. There are many things about him I could share with you.. some might even make this more exciting of a story. What I can share for sure is this... Jeremy used to sell drugs, did drugs, and had just joined the Army in an effort to try to get his life on a different course. The first Sunday morning he came to the small group, I knew I was going to have to start listening to the Spirit even more so than normal. (For those who have been in any of my classes/groups before can laugh now.) His life's moments had been so incredibly different than any other person I had ever taught or been a leader or really even ministered to before. No, not because of the drugs. That is very common. We ended that first group time with him standing in the middle of the room, laying hands on him, and praying. Spirit was ever so present... it still gives me chills.

The last time Jeremy was in the group.... I shared with him and the others there how much I had come to love and appreciate him. I sat down beside him, looked him in the eyes, and thanked him for sharing his life's moments with us. The look on his face - I won't forget any time soon. He actually asked for prayer about his life and I could not help but take him in my heart even more.

Last night, hubby called me on my cell and asked me to come to the welcome desk down in the foyer of the physical church building. I didn't ask why which is sort of unusual for me at that time of the evening. I was hanging out with a bunch of funny looking people that I also love beyond words - also known as some middle school and high school students. I didn't hesitate in going to see what the call was about though.

When I got to the welcome desk, there was Jeremy. His grandparents were there too. As it turns out, Jeremy had to go to his aunt's this past Sunday. He had missed what he had told me would be his last Sunday in the group. He asked hubby to get me there so he could thank me and tell me goodbye. I hugged him... I know, what a surprise, and got all teary-eyed. I asked him if I could pray for him. I was going to put my hand on his shoulder when he reached out his arms to hug me. We stood there hugging each other as I whispered the prayer in his ear. What I said will stay between me, Jeremy, God, and perhaps hubby if his ears were able to hear with all the other sounds around us. His grandparents were standing off behind us.

Jeremy promised to stay in touch. His grandmother hugged me and thanked me for loving their grandson. It is safe to say that our relationship is even stronger now than before. Funny how that happens. His grandfather couldn't come close to me. He knew he would cry. I knew he would cry. And given the fact that he hugs me too, we all would have been crying. Sometimes - it is okay to watch from a distance that really isn't distant at all.

The title of this might sound strange to some. I don't talk very much about seminary on purpose. While I am thankful for my time there, I have come to learn many valuable lessons just as much outside the halls, walls, and grounds. I would go so far as to say, even more important ones. For when Jeremy showed up, I knew I had to rely on God more than I could myself. The details of that... again I'll let stay.

Will Jeremy ever come to know Jesus as his Lord and Savior? I don't know. What I do know is this... what happened between us is something that they can't teach at seminary. God's love is alive. It is breathing. It did not die on that cross and stay dead. And who am I to say, "I can't love you until you believe as I do."

Please pray for Jeremy.. he has a long road ahead of him. And I remain thankful that Jeremy's grandfather prayed for me when I was paralyzed from the neck down all those years ago... long before we were sent to a place I said I would never go.

God loved first. And that is more than enough for me. In fact, that's where abundant living truly is found.... in His love. And He loved enough to send His Only Son...

Talk about making me all teary-eyed.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for.

Much love,
Camey

It's This Simple.

There is Only 1 Way to Heaven. Jesus Christ.

There is Only 1 God worthy of praise & worship.

May Spirit move mightily 2day across the world.

May His Church realize it's not a building.


As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for.

"Killing Cockroaches" - One Foot At A Time

As I sit here listening to "How To Save A Life" by The Fray - I cannot help but think of a book I've recently had the pleasure of reading for the opportunity to review. "Killing Cockroaches" by Tony Morgan the chief strategic officer (pastor) at NewSpring Church is one book I've looked forward to since I first heard the author, Tony, talking about it.

As someone who has read Tony's blog, http://tonymorganlive.com/ for quite some time, this book has a familiar feeling to it. It honestly reads like a hug from Tony. Sorry, Tony. I know you're not a hugger. ;) Some people give "side hugs"... others give hugs that literally feel as if you're having the you-know-what squeezed out of you. That's the type of hug this would be from Tony. Kind of like when a cockroach is stomped with a foot and out comes all that stuff that has to be cleaned up.

The following are just a few reasons why I connect with this book and its author, and hope you will as well or at least it will make you think:

"If we're just teaching people a foreign language, what have we really accomplished?" (pg 21)

- This past Sunday as I was teaching a small group, one of the 20-something guys said, "What is envy?" Now, I was reading directly from Scripture and this guy was completely unfamiliar with it. This comment from Tony was brought to my mind immediately. The individuals in the group who were more familiar with envy actually took the time to explain it to him and give personal examples. Could I have just said, "Envy means to covet an other's possessions or life." Absolutely. But would he have really understood that? Nope. Nada. Not gonna happen.

"Churchiness Is Easy" - the whole chapter! If I didn't know that Tony lived in South Carolina, I might be tempted to think he was a fly on my wall or on the inside windshield of my car or in text messages on my cell or however via facebook, myspace, twitter or etc. I definitely agree that Real Faith is Dangerous! It's no coincidence that I have been praying for Tony while he was writing this book and since its release either.

"I think we're making a huge mistake if we assume young adults will continue to come to our buildings to experience community." (pg 25)

TONY????? (Okay.. he didn't answer.) Again - this struck me as the chapter on "Churchiness Is Easy" did. As one who has come to use social media tools such as facebook, myspace, and twitter - I have come to see this alive and in living color. I can be found at the pcb (physical church building) on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. to teach/lead our 18 to 25-year-old small group. And while there are times when they interact and really get into the discussion - what they will communicate with me through the social media tools is always greater. Shocking? To some perhaps. It is the way they know life and live it. As I was told not long ago by an 18-year-old female, "Camey, you can speak into my life because you are a part of it more than just 1 hour every Sunday. Someone who just acts like they care on Sunday but then I never hear from them again until the next does not." (Yes, I can hear the 'OUCH' that bites. Don't we all need to be bitten from time to time so we don't become immune?)

"Whatever you choose to do, encourage folks to serve others either inside or outside the walls of your church. I'm convinced that one of the primary ways we worship God with our lives is by serving others." (pg 31)

I think over the years there has become a great confusion inside the walls of the physical church buildings. Worshipping God is a way of life - not just a few minutes on Sunday morning, Saturday night, or whenever one might be at a "worship service" or "worship experience"... We were created to worship God, serve Him, and therefore, serve others. It's a daily thing. Not a "when I feel like it."

"It's sad, but I wonder if we've inadvertently designed our ministries to isolate Christians from the places where God really wants them to be." (pg 61)

Let that one sink in. Chew on it. And then, please spit it out. This past week, our oldest son - Austin (17), went to Belize. As a lifestyle missionary - he knows and understands that he is to be inside the liquor store just as much as the orphanage, physical church building, and etc wherever he may be whether in Belize or in the good ole USA. I've had some individuals tell me it's wrong to encourage him to go into such places without me or his dad there. Hello? His Real Father (God) had already gone before him. He belongs to God. He's only on loan to us. What ministries can your body be a part of that is outside the walls? I'm not talking mission trips here. If you are a Christ-follower - you too should be a lifestyle missionary - not just a sitting in the seat/pew saying, "It's good to be in God's house today." Then, leave without giving Him a second thought until next Sunday. I know.. I've been there and done that. If you think I'm pointing a figure at you.. remember - I have more pointing at me.

"We serve a God who called us to go to the lost. Care for the sick. Touch the untouchables. But too often we fail to see the painful stories that hide behind seemingly normal lives. Are you prepared to listen and help?" (pg 195)

This is what I mean by I was called to minister to the seen and unseen. So? Are you called? Are you prepared? (If you know me at all - you know how I would answer that for you.)

I could share more of my thoughts on "Killing Cockroaches" by Tony Morgan. But, honestly? I'm curious to hear yours. What strikes me as even more interesting however, is if you can merely read it and not let it impact the way you too kill cockroaches one foot at a time.

For what good does it do to read a book, web site, or whatever if you just keep it on a bookshelf, rss feed or pdf file?

Thanks Tony!

http://tonymorganlive.com/
http://tonymorganlive.com/book
http://twitter.com/tonymorganlive

And of course, you can find him (Tony Morgan) via facebook. He might even be willing to be your friend too.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed dangerous prayers for! RISK!

When Love Hurts: Changing Roles

So..... Today is March 23rd. In a couple of hours, I will be having "the talk" with my mom about the fact that she has a doctor's appointment today at 11:15 a.m. I will be sharing with her that I made the appointment for her. Yes, the daughter made the appointment for her mom. Definitely a change of roles. Just one of many since our time here. Not my strength but God's!

Yesterday I was told that if my hubby, myself, Austin, Travis, and Parker would stop being so bold for Jesus - what is going on with Mom would stop. As I've stated time and time before - we are not going to apologize for serving the One & Only Savior - Jesus Christ. After all, there is None like our Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Will she go willingly to the doctor today? That remains to be seen. I will be sharing with her that I made the appointment not just on behalf of her, but hundreds of people who love and care about her. Family, friends, the boyfriend, and etc. The guys (hubby, sons, brother - Kelly, and boyfriend) & I have decided that I will be alone when I talk with her. And yet, we know that I will not be alone. For God has gone before me/us on this.... no matter what she decides.

The boyfriend is set to pick us up and go with us as a sign of his love, support, and etc if she is willing to go. If she decides to not go or is unwilling to get back on the meds... we will take the next step for the G family and move out. The next step for her after that... well, we will all continue to seek God's guidance.

We remain grateful for all the prayers lifted up on her behalf and ours. Some times loving another person can hurt. It can bite big time. But yet, we remain thankful for her life's moments even in the ones that are painful. Why? Because of God's love first.

I will update this note when possible. Until then, let me/us know how we can pray for you! Dangerous prayers are being taken up a notch as this is written!

Signed,
His Daughter then hers

PS: And yes... as always, dear reader, you've been prayed for! And thank you for any and all prayers you lift up as well.

UPDATE: My mom is in fact bi-polar. She is starting on some new meds tonight. Let me rephrase that - we hope she will start them. She's not very happy with anyone right now. That is to be expected of course. Thank you all for your prayers already prayed and the ones we know will continue on her behalf and ours.

In Response to: When Love Hurts & General Update

Thank you to all whom have commented, messaged, called, caught me in person or however to respond to "When Love Hurts." Your friendships, love, and prayers have been quite touching.

For those who shared personal stories with me... thank you for entrusting me with your own hurts. I am thankful that we have the type of connections with each other through Jesus that we can share the hard times of life's moments as well as the good. Please know that I continue to pray for you/yours. Thank you again for sharing your own trials with me whether it is/was you or family.

My mom as of yet has not gone back on the meds. I have taken a couple of more steps in our intervention on her behalf. If you would please pray in regards to her nuclear stress test today & then the appointment she has on the 23rd. We've decided to not tell her about that appointment yet. I'm not concerned about sharing that information here obviously.

In the midst of all this with her... Hubby is leaving on Saturday for IL to preach 5 times and serve the community there. Austin is leaving on Saturday for Belize for a week to share God's love in prisons, schools, orphanages, and etc. Travis and Parker will be on Spring Break as well. And the septic system is in need of an overhaul. Yes, I will still be found at the pcb at my regular scheduled times unless plans change! Travis and Parker will be with me no doubt. Oh... and Travis still needs to see a speciality dentist!

I was asked yesterday point blank about where do I stand in my relationship with God in light of all that is going on with my mom. To the person who asked me - thank you for being that kind of friend! We all need individuals in our lives who are willing to ask those kind of questions & truly want to hear the real answer... not the "churchy" answer. I have found in these types of trials that I draw nearer to God and not farther away. He is my Hope, my Rock, and my Foundation. Doesn't mean that this time in life with my mom doesn't hurt. It still bites big time. What it also means is that I am being stretched beyond where I could go on my own as Dick, Austin, Travis, and Parker are too.

We were created for God.. by God... Why should we think we could live life's moments without Him? Why would we want to? The G family serves The Risen Savior. And that we will not apologize for.

Love hurts... Jesus' blood on the cross is proof positive of that.

Do you know Jesus?

If so, how's your relationship with Him in light of your circumstances?And yes, I really do want to know...

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for.

And thanks for the prayers on our behalf too!

When Love Hurts

One of the things I've (we've) been convicted about since surrendering to God and ministry back in 04 is not being "happy plastic Christians." You know the type... nothing is ever wrong. The sun is always shining. They seemingly have no problems. Their family is perfect because they are. Appearances...

We, the G family, know that is not how God has told us to live life's moments. There are times when love hurts. We are experiencing that these days. And after much prayer on it... it's time to share a bit about what we're going through in an effort to let someone else out there know - you're not alone. And to also shed some light on a messy subject.

I've shared before about the fact that my mother suffers from severe depression among other things. It is one of the things that I also teach, speak, and counsel on. For far too long, I/we believe that "the church" has swept this under the rug. That it is still taboo in many circles. And I know there are those who disagree with me as a pastor's wife & woman minister for being outspoken on it. I'd (we'd) rather be right with God than to be popular in any one's else book. Any church body that would consider my husband for their pastor would have to accept this about us as well.

My mother decided to take herself off her meds a few months ago in an effort to see if she could do without them. Keep in mind here - she did so without telling anyone - not her doctor, not any one else in our household (daughter, son-in-law & 3 grandsons)... and not her boyfriend of almost two years now. Needless to say... it didn't take too long for those who know her, love her, and spend any real amount of time with her to say, "She's gone off her meds!" Then, sure enough... she started confirming it verbally for all of us.

I'd like to say that the last few months we've noticed a dramatic change in her mental/emotional health. That she no longer has a need for the meds she was on. That is not the reality we are living in. And frankly, these have been moments when love hurts. It bites big time. The five of us have never been closer to each other. It continues to draw us together and not separate us. The same is true with Dick and I as husband and wife. There are times when being caregivers can overtake a family if boundaries are not put in place. At no time did God say, "Go ye therefore and forsake your spouse & children for your parent(s).

"There is no question that we love her beyond words. There is also no doubt that if she decides to not go back on her meds after having been confronted the last couple of days by the five of us and her boyfriend separately, and then he (boyfriend) and I together, we will be moving out. Does this mean that we will stop loving her and offering support to her in other ways - not necessarily.

There is a lot of talk about how much depression hurts those who suffer from it. What is not always talked about is how it affects those who love them. When we moved in with my parents in May of 05 to become a new family unit, we thought it would be for the rest of my mom's life.. we knew it would be for dad's. We planned on her going with us wherever else God called us to. That is how deep our commitment level is/was.

One thing that God has taught us over and over again especially in regards to my mother is this.... while we do not understand why some people suffer in certain ways - the relationship with Him is always the most important. His blood is truly the thickest. And there are times when love hurts... it bites... There are times when staying is the right thing to do. Then there are other times when leaving is what is called for. Will we stay? Will we leave? That remains to be seen. Honestly, we've stayed longer than I thought we would.

As I've been known to say.... this was the place I once upon a time told God I would not go. Goes to show - how things can change when you give God control of your life's moments.

My mother is doing better as far as the pneumonia goes. She is having her stress test on Monday, March 9th. We'll take each day as they come. Isn't that all we can ever really do? There is no guarantee of a tomorrow on earth. Please continue to pray for her, us and yes... even her boyfriend. No, they will not be getting married unless other miracles were to take place.

And even though there are moments when it hurts like hell.... I am thankful that it continues to draw me closer to my Real Father. I am in no way, shape or form close to having things all together. Fortunately, Father does not turn His back on me either... nor has He with my mother who is also His child. These are areas where we may never understand the why... but we must continue to keep our eyes focused on Him.

I cannot begin to imagine how much love hurt when Jesus was on the cross dying. Who am I to expect love to be easy? There is Only One who makes us complete as a person. Mental, emotional, and physical health are important... but the reality is, has always been, and will always be Spiritual health is the most important.

Have you had a Spiritual health check up lately?

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for!

"Larry Brown" - On hearing from my Father.

The last few months, we've been experiencing a rather weird thing with our answering machine on the land line. When going to check the messages - there shows 1 new one. Upon listening, there is one of our all time favorite voices - that of Larry Brown. There does not show a number on the Caller ID connected with the message. All that is said is, "Larry Brown."

I must confess to being a little crept out the first couple of times I heard his voice on the answering machine. For those not in know here - Larry Brown was my daddy. I say was because he went to be with Jesus on November 1, 2006. And while my daddy has actually never been more alive - by all earthly standards - he is dead. His body is buried in a cemetery we pass by when going through the town connected with the front gate of our highly secure gated community.

If you've known me for any length of time - or have read my notes or blog or articles that have been published in various places or heard me speak in person... you'll know that my daddy and I were exceedingly close. He wasn't just my daddy... he was one of my dearest friends later in life as an adult. He was/is most importantly - my brother in Christ. His voice - even when mad at me - always brought me comfort. It was as familiar to me as any voice could possibly be.

You might be thinking - "How great to hear his voice again then!" Or about how weird it is that I am hearing from daddy... We know it has some thing to do with when my mother uses what was his cell phone to check for messages on the land line. Like I said earlier - it did creep me out the first couple of times. Now I laugh and have to smile deeply. Why?

My daddy always taught me and showed me by how he/we lived life's moments that the most important relationship I could ever have was with my real father. Oh sure... Larry Brown was my biological father.. my earthly dad.. but he is/was not my real father. Larry could not save me all the times he tried.

While I will always remember with such tenderness and fondness the sound of my daddy's voice.... it in no way compares to that of knowing and hearing and recognizing that of my Real Father's. The love that my Real Father has for me is the most precious. It is priceless. It is beyond measure.

So, dear reader..... let me ask you...

Do you know intimately the sound of His voice?

Would you recognize it above all others?

Do you walk toward the sound of His voice or run in the other direction?

And if you are a parent - are you intentionally teaching the child(ren) you've been blessed with to want to know the sound of His voice?

There is no voice worth hearing more so than that of God's.

As always, dear reader, you've been prayed for!