Today, first Saturday after Thanksgiving, as tradition holds, we headed to the tree farm. It isn't always the same one...the tree farm, but it's always a farm and never a lot, a tree lot that is.
The drive was winding and swerving through the hills of North Plains, several miles from where we lived. Forests and fields filled these soft farmlands with familiar comfort and majestic awe. I always love this drive and love the fact that its only minutes from our home, close enough to regard it as home.
The air was stiff with chill and we were still recovering from below freezing temps from the days prior. We finally landed to our destination and all filed out with hand saw and bundles of coats, jackets, and hats.
But this particular day, I wondered if I had bundled them tightly enough. The poles seemed to squeeze more tightly upon us, and I realized why I never got into snow skiing. By the way, I love to water ski and basically "popped" up upon my first try...at least that's what I remember. But I wondered if I ever would take up snow skiing...ahh, I'm reminded now.
And on this particular day, Gabriel skipped along the path and then stopped short in his step. He searched around and realized the air around him had seemed a bit lower and a bit heavier than he remembered. And he noticed something he had never noticed before.
Then I giggled to myself as I marveled over his marvel. In his pause, Gabriel gasped and blew out...gasped and blew out...then wide eyes watched what floated gently from between his lips. Soft puffs of white streamed sweetly and dissipated magically away.
Ahh...Gabriel had discovered his breath. And, I, in that moment, gave thanks for the One who gave him his very breath.
.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
Runaway
Well, I almost did, but I didn't, but I threatened to...
Ok, I threatened to run away tonight. Yes, run away. No, I'm not a feisty, rebellious teen bucking rules, order, and everything "parent". I'm a 41 year old SAHM.(Stay at home mommy) No, I'm not hormonal, at least not right now. And, no, I'm not in any danger, threat, or duress. I've just had it to here. (pointing my arms above my head)...
Ok, I realize my threat was idle, but it was there. I just needed a break...and a girl needs a little appreciation.
See, I can talk about it right now because my wise and peace-making husband can diffuse any of my myriad of emotions.
So, here's what happened...
I've got it all planned out. By the way, I'm a planner, an organizer, and my pantries and linen closet are the organization gestapo. That gives you a flavor of the OCD tendencies I've prayed, agonized, and wrestled with. And, now I've actually come to terms with this shortcoming and have embraced it with zeal...
So, in character, I've decided to plan Advent events for the family for the next month. The first one began today. With tradition, we loaded the Suburban (that doesn't seem big enough for my brood of boys) with matching button down shirts, cameras (three of them), tripods, snacks, books, balls, and boys. Off to the Pittock Mansion for our annual Christmas picture session in picturesque Pittock nestled in the Northwest valley with the winding Willamette below. Ahh, doesn't that sound so Norman Rockwell?
Little did I know...with all that we brought, we also tucked in some grumble, complaint, and nag.
"Mommy, are we done yet?"
"How long will this take?"
"I don't look good in this shirt!" "I'm hungry!!"(By the way, they're always hungry; they're boys.)
"My feet hurt!" "My nose itches." "But we just took 30 pictures." "Do I have to?"
So, here we are taking happy? pictures....you get the picture. If you have a household of children, you've probably experienced a scene like ours. If not, tell me how you do it:)
So, at the end of our jaunt, I calmly and stoically announced to my dear, sympathetic husband that I was running away.
"Running away?" he asked. "From what?"
"Oh, my love, I think you know."
We bantered back and forth about the pros and cons of me running away. He finally convinced me that I could, if I wanted to...
...and so I did. I ran away for the night...into the other room, my office.
I had a lovely evening. And reflected on the sweet moments we had at Pittock tonight.
I love my boys, my husband...and wouldn't dream of being anywhere else right now but home.
No other place, but home
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Soli Deo Gloria...
Thanksgiving #40 Thanksgiving Day
Soli Deo Gloria...For the glory of God, His Glory Alone. I am humbled, awed, and grateful.
Soli Deo Gloria...For the glory of God, His Glory Alone. I am humbled, awed, and grateful.
"Enter the Lord's gates with Thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and Praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100:4-5
For life that beats within...
Thanksgiving #39 Thanksgiving Day
One of the greatest honors man or more specific...woman bears is the honor of participating in God's mightiest and marvelous miracle...that of bearing new life. I can't help but marvel tonight when I saw Grace, my beautiful sister-in-law, bear that little life within her tiny frame. A separate heart and mind that beats and thinks apart from her, the very one who carries her. That's right, that little one is a precious baby girl. She'll arrive and make her debut in January. How amazing is God' amazement, how marvelous His marvel. I'm grateful for the life that beats within Grace.
One of the greatest honors man or more specific...woman bears is the honor of participating in God's mightiest and marvelous miracle...that of bearing new life. I can't help but marvel tonight when I saw Grace, my beautiful sister-in-law, bear that little life within her tiny frame. A separate heart and mind that beats and thinks apart from her, the very one who carries her. That's right, that little one is a precious baby girl. She'll arrive and make her debut in January. How amazing is God' amazement, how marvelous His marvel. I'm grateful for the life that beats within Grace.
For the hope of eternity...
Thanksgiving #38 Thanksgiving Day
Have I stood in the presence of Light to only see the depravity of my dark? Have I seen truth in its fullness to sense its stark contrast from lie? Have you felt the depth of another's care against the depth of being alone? It's these deep contrasts that allow us to sense what life is felt on this side of heaven. For as long as we walk on this side of heaven we will always have the contrast of being on this side of heaven...until one day we will fully know the fullness of residing within. I am grateful for the hope of eternity that rests only within the ONE that gives it.
Have I stood in the presence of Light to only see the depravity of my dark? Have I seen truth in its fullness to sense its stark contrast from lie? Have you felt the depth of another's care against the depth of being alone? It's these deep contrasts that allow us to sense what life is felt on this side of heaven. For as long as we walk on this side of heaven we will always have the contrast of being on this side of heaven...until one day we will fully know the fullness of residing within. I am grateful for the hope of eternity that rests only within the ONE that gives it.
For best buddies in baby and brother...
Thanksgiving #37 Thanksgiving Day
Eats and more eats, feating and more feasting...and yes, fellowship and drawing close to those near and dear to you. I'm in the kitchen deep in preparation for our Thanksgiving feast... confidant and secure in knowing and seeing my youngest confidant and secure in the care of our Sweet Sam. He always was and is nurturing, patient, kind, and protective over his lil' brother G. He follows his baby brother around like a pama bear over his cub. He plays and entertains him with a daddy's love. If I've never uttered a word of thanks for this sweetness between two brothers, I've felt it and known it from the very beginning of their beginning. Oh, dear Jesus, I am grateful You gave best friends in the same family.
Eats and more eats, feating and more feasting...and yes, fellowship and drawing close to those near and dear to you. I'm in the kitchen deep in preparation for our Thanksgiving feast... confidant and secure in knowing and seeing my youngest confidant and secure in the care of our Sweet Sam. He always was and is nurturing, patient, kind, and protective over his lil' brother G. He follows his baby brother around like a pama bear over his cub. He plays and entertains him with a daddy's love. If I've never uttered a word of thanks for this sweetness between two brothers, I've felt it and known it from the very beginning of their beginning. Oh, dear Jesus, I am grateful You gave best friends in the same family.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
For the example of the 12 year old Jesus....
Thanksgiving #36
Raising a teen is not the easiest. Yet with its challenge and hurdles, it has to be one of the most rewarding and blessed times of parenting. You see the culmination of heart and effort and nurture in the makings of this young boy through his speech and deeds. Oh, yes, he challenges and bucks and may even gripe a bit here and there, but he is beginning to test his wings. He wasn't meant for flight on his parents' wings but his own. Getting from here to there is filled with stretching, growth pains, and sometimes heart ache.
I'm so grateful for the example that Jesus left when he started marking his destiny, his own flight when He was only 12 years old. At that time, He went to Jerusalem to observe the Passover Feast with His parents, as He did each year prior. When it was time to leave, He stayed behind. When Joseph, his earthly father, and Mary, his mother, came back to search for him. He reminded them that shouldn't He be found in His Father's house.
But isn't Joseph His father? Of coarse, Jesus in that moment, was marking his departure from his parents, yet still with grace, love, and honor for His parents. Jesus claimed to be in His Father's house, yet knowing his earthly father to be Joseph. Joseph and Mary might have been hurt at Jesus' response, but they knew He was beginning His flight for his own ministry on earth.
Just as my son has...
As He stakes out to claim what is his...his own walk, his own story...his own flight...as a mommy I'll commit to continue to stand beside and beneath him. But now, he must go before me...
He's taking flight. I'll love him all the while. I'm grateful for the example our Lord left us to encourage hope during this time of parenting.
Raising a teen is not the easiest. Yet with its challenge and hurdles, it has to be one of the most rewarding and blessed times of parenting. You see the culmination of heart and effort and nurture in the makings of this young boy through his speech and deeds. Oh, yes, he challenges and bucks and may even gripe a bit here and there, but he is beginning to test his wings. He wasn't meant for flight on his parents' wings but his own. Getting from here to there is filled with stretching, growth pains, and sometimes heart ache.
I'm so grateful for the example that Jesus left when he started marking his destiny, his own flight when He was only 12 years old. At that time, He went to Jerusalem to observe the Passover Feast with His parents, as He did each year prior. When it was time to leave, He stayed behind. When Joseph, his earthly father, and Mary, his mother, came back to search for him. He reminded them that shouldn't He be found in His Father's house.
But isn't Joseph His father? Of coarse, Jesus in that moment, was marking his departure from his parents, yet still with grace, love, and honor for His parents. Jesus claimed to be in His Father's house, yet knowing his earthly father to be Joseph. Joseph and Mary might have been hurt at Jesus' response, but they knew He was beginning His flight for his own ministry on earth.
Just as my son has...
As He stakes out to claim what is his...his own walk, his own story...his own flight...as a mommy I'll commit to continue to stand beside and beneath him. But now, he must go before me...
He's taking flight. I'll love him all the while. I'm grateful for the example our Lord left us to encourage hope during this time of parenting.
For warming shelters in stretches of cold...
Thanksgiving #35
21...that's the number my car thermometer read last night. My children watch excitedly as the the number fell from 41 (being inside the garage) down 20 more. Brrr.... understatement. I think that many of us can say that we are very grateful for the warmth of shelter and roof over from the elements outside...a kind of a blessing that many of us may take for granted, or at least I have. No, today, I am grateful for the many ministries that touch the hurting and downtrodden. Imago Dei Community, Portland Rescue Mission, Union Gospel Mission, and...Rolling Hills Community Church. These faith communities use their resources and blessings to provide for the Portland poor...to provide warmth and shelter...food and drink...hope and light...to a watching and desperate world who so needs the light and warmth of Christ.
I am grateful for these communities...for warming shelters in stretches of cold.
21...that's the number my car thermometer read last night. My children watch excitedly as the the number fell from 41 (being inside the garage) down 20 more. Brrr.... understatement. I think that many of us can say that we are very grateful for the warmth of shelter and roof over from the elements outside...a kind of a blessing that many of us may take for granted, or at least I have. No, today, I am grateful for the many ministries that touch the hurting and downtrodden. Imago Dei Community, Portland Rescue Mission, Union Gospel Mission, and...Rolling Hills Community Church. These faith communities use their resources and blessings to provide for the Portland poor...to provide warmth and shelter...food and drink...hope and light...to a watching and desperate world who so needs the light and warmth of Christ.
I am grateful for these communities...for warming shelters in stretches of cold.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
For the marvel in the first few fall of flakes...
Thanksgiving #34
The night quieted down and the sky drew closer and blacker. It had filled with clouds heavier and fuller than typical. Then when things were already quiet, it drew even more...and it began. The first few measures of soft, falling flakes crescendoed into an orchestra of a sky-filled white. It sounded magnificently quiet and breath-taking. I've seen it before and every year, but each time I do, it holds my breath captive.
The boys rushed out to crunch the first layer and roll their bodies in it's soft, cool blanket. You would have thought that they've never seen anything like it.
Just the day before, I was feeling discouraged that I don't believe I've taught my children the blessing of how to marvel. Tonight, I didn't have to...they knew exactly how to upon the first sight of marvel.
Grateful for the first sight of marvel...He is marvelous and wonderful. The first few fall of flakes...
The night quieted down and the sky drew closer and blacker. It had filled with clouds heavier and fuller than typical. Then when things were already quiet, it drew even more...and it began. The first few measures of soft, falling flakes crescendoed into an orchestra of a sky-filled white. It sounded magnificently quiet and breath-taking. I've seen it before and every year, but each time I do, it holds my breath captive.
The boys rushed out to crunch the first layer and roll their bodies in it's soft, cool blanket. You would have thought that they've never seen anything like it.
Just the day before, I was feeling discouraged that I don't believe I've taught my children the blessing of how to marvel. Tonight, I didn't have to...they knew exactly how to upon the first sight of marvel.
Grateful for the first sight of marvel...He is marvelous and wonderful. The first few fall of flakes...
Monday, November 22, 2010
For Operation Christmas Blessing...
Thanksgiving #33
Operation Christmas Child...Christmas boxes...have you heard of such a thing? It's international...it's global...it's the body of Christ reaching all over the world. 8 million children received shoe boxes last year. 130 different impoverished countries all over the world have been touched by Operation Christmas Child.
For what? To demonstrate God's love in a tangible way to needy children around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Yesterday after church, my family and I picked up and dropped off 69 Christmas boxes to their drop off site. We dropped off 43 boxes on Friday night...that makes over a hundred boxes.
One of those boxes if not more may end up in my family's country - the Philippines. What a blessing to have been a part of this mission.
Soli Deo Gloria!
To Him be all the glory!
Operation Christmas Child...Christmas boxes...have you heard of such a thing? It's international...it's global...it's the body of Christ reaching all over the world. 8 million children received shoe boxes last year. 130 different impoverished countries all over the world have been touched by Operation Christmas Child.
For what? To demonstrate God's love in a tangible way to needy children around the world, and together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Yesterday after church, my family and I picked up and dropped off 69 Christmas boxes to their drop off site. We dropped off 43 boxes on Friday night...that makes over a hundred boxes.
One of those boxes if not more may end up in my family's country - the Philippines. What a blessing to have been a part of this mission.
Soli Deo Gloria!
To Him be all the glory!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
For our church body...
Thanksgiving #32
Life is chaotic, bordering mayhem, and challenged-filled...but it is also rich of blessing, treasure, and all that we cherish...our family. As we travel our day to day, week to week, I can safely say that life is not always consistent and routine. In fact, it is far from it. I often long for the anchor of that what is routine and regular but find that some periods of time are intended to be endured in upheaval and shake-up. Oh, but you can still be content in any circumstance or even choose to joy in all situations. I do try.
But one thing that I can count on and remains constant and regular in our week to week...
Our church family!
The constant of familiar faces, gracious greetings, warm embraces...right there in the body of Rolling Hills Community Church. It's all because God is there, and He is the constant that anchors our lives.
He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He is the great I AM!
God through His church body anchors our week and our direction even through upheaval...God's presence and light through each one of them within the body...each of those we call family at Rolling Hills Community Church.
I'm grateful for God through our church family of Rolling Hills Community Church.
Life is chaotic, bordering mayhem, and challenged-filled...but it is also rich of blessing, treasure, and all that we cherish...our family. As we travel our day to day, week to week, I can safely say that life is not always consistent and routine. In fact, it is far from it. I often long for the anchor of that what is routine and regular but find that some periods of time are intended to be endured in upheaval and shake-up. Oh, but you can still be content in any circumstance or even choose to joy in all situations. I do try.
But one thing that I can count on and remains constant and regular in our week to week...
Our church family!
The constant of familiar faces, gracious greetings, warm embraces...right there in the body of Rolling Hills Community Church. It's all because God is there, and He is the constant that anchors our lives.
He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He is the great I AM!
God through His church body anchors our week and our direction even through upheaval...God's presence and light through each one of them within the body...each of those we call family at Rolling Hills Community Church.
I'm grateful for God through our church family of Rolling Hills Community Church.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
For my Pastor's wife...
Thanksgiving #31
My Pastor's wife asked me...and three of my mentors, Judy, Cheryl, and Rita, to join her in a study...Radical by David Platt. I've heard his sermons and even joined an online discussion group over his sermons. I was challenged beyond measure and often irritated and uncomfortable. I hated his radical thoughts and his unconventional practices and agreed with every single one of them at the same time. He teaches and practices a walk not too far from those of the Franciscan Order of St. Francis of Assisi. Francis was born of wealthy parents and forsaked all that he was given for a life in poverty with Christ. I'm nervous and agitated about this study but excited and elated at the same time. I'm grateful that Kathy invited me and I'm grateful for my Pastor's wife.
By the way, isn't my Pastor's wife so beautiful? She is inside and out.
My Pastor's wife asked me...and three of my mentors, Judy, Cheryl, and Rita, to join her in a study...Radical by David Platt. I've heard his sermons and even joined an online discussion group over his sermons. I was challenged beyond measure and often irritated and uncomfortable. I hated his radical thoughts and his unconventional practices and agreed with every single one of them at the same time. He teaches and practices a walk not too far from those of the Franciscan Order of St. Francis of Assisi. Francis was born of wealthy parents and forsaked all that he was given for a life in poverty with Christ. I'm nervous and agitated about this study but excited and elated at the same time. I'm grateful that Kathy invited me and I'm grateful for my Pastor's wife.
By the way, isn't my Pastor's wife so beautiful? She is inside and out.
For grace that abounds...
Thanksgiving #30
I sometimes can't believe how often and how big I blunder...how much I can offend and how many transgressions whether purposed or inadvertent...and sadly, how many people I may hurt along the way...including those I love the most. Oh dear, my flesh seems to war against me and within me. This life in the flesh astounds, confuses, and sometimes paralyzes me.
But if life is walked in the Spirit instead of the flesh God is glorified and blessing abounds. He has taught me this week through my Bible study that the fall and captivity of His people allowed Him to demonstrate His redemption and grace. (See Isaiah 13-14) Even ast my flesh astounds, His grace and redemption abounds. And I am grateful for His graceful, redemptive Hand on my life.
I sometimes can't believe how often and how big I blunder...how much I can offend and how many transgressions whether purposed or inadvertent...and sadly, how many people I may hurt along the way...including those I love the most. Oh dear, my flesh seems to war against me and within me. This life in the flesh astounds, confuses, and sometimes paralyzes me.
But if life is walked in the Spirit instead of the flesh God is glorified and blessing abounds. He has taught me this week through my Bible study that the fall and captivity of His people allowed Him to demonstrate His redemption and grace. (See Isaiah 13-14) Even ast my flesh astounds, His grace and redemption abounds. And I am grateful for His graceful, redemptive Hand on my life.
For HIS TRUTH!!
Thanksgiving #29
Last night we went out to celebrate Daniel's birthday over dinner. Dad, mom, Uncle Jason (the boys' uncle, my brother-not my uncle), husband, and our boys all met at the Italian house-Olive Garden. We had about a half hour wait. So I always bring something to read to tie the time over. My mom brought her Bible study material and took it out to review with me. She had attended the class earlier that afternoon "How to share the Gospel" at Bible Study Fellowship, otherwise known as BSF. She excitedly recapped the key points and enthusiastically reviewed the four truths of sharing the Gospel. I asked her if she had ever heard these truths before, and she looked at me earnestly and shook her head no. She had attended church since she was a little girl. In fact, my grandfather started and pastored the church in their bario in Nueva Vizcaya. And when we moved here to Portland in 1976, we attended the United Methodist Church of Beaverton.
And sadly, they never taught the truth...the Gospel...the Good News.
Four walls with a roof and a cross in its center do not make a church. His Holy Spirit and His teaching and His replication in others...that makes His church.
For the first time, November 19th, my mother heard the Gospel. She heard the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ and she believed for the first time. I am grateful for God's truth that is mighty to save!!
By the way, my mom is now witnessing to a young Native American girl, Audrey, in the workplace...working to share the Gospel.
Last night we went out to celebrate Daniel's birthday over dinner. Dad, mom, Uncle Jason (the boys' uncle, my brother-not my uncle), husband, and our boys all met at the Italian house-Olive Garden. We had about a half hour wait. So I always bring something to read to tie the time over. My mom brought her Bible study material and took it out to review with me. She had attended the class earlier that afternoon "How to share the Gospel" at Bible Study Fellowship, otherwise known as BSF. She excitedly recapped the key points and enthusiastically reviewed the four truths of sharing the Gospel. I asked her if she had ever heard these truths before, and she looked at me earnestly and shook her head no. She had attended church since she was a little girl. In fact, my grandfather started and pastored the church in their bario in Nueva Vizcaya. And when we moved here to Portland in 1976, we attended the United Methodist Church of Beaverton.
And sadly, they never taught the truth...the Gospel...the Good News.
Four walls with a roof and a cross in its center do not make a church. His Holy Spirit and His teaching and His replication in others...that makes His church.
For the first time, November 19th, my mother heard the Gospel. She heard the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ and she believed for the first time. I am grateful for God's truth that is mighty to save!!
By the way, my mom is now witnessing to a young Native American girl, Audrey, in the workplace...working to share the Gospel.
For my mom and dad...
Thanksgiving #28
Every Tuesday I take the "middles" Samuel and D to a homeschool group called Classical Conversations, where they grow and learn in disciplines such as geography, science, math, history, english, and art. And every Tuesday, my mom and dad come over to take care of baby G. Every Tuesday baby G takes a much earlier nap than I would prefer, which forces him to take two naps instead of one, which by the end of the day he ends up going to bed later than I would prefer. Every Tuesday baby G eats foods I would not prefer and makes a mess that I would rather he not make. But every Tuesday baby G is cared and nurtured and held lovingly by my mom and dad for the entire time we are gone...I wouldn't trade my every Tuesday for the world. I'm grateful for my mom and dad.
Every Tuesday I take the "middles" Samuel and D to a homeschool group called Classical Conversations, where they grow and learn in disciplines such as geography, science, math, history, english, and art. And every Tuesday, my mom and dad come over to take care of baby G. Every Tuesday baby G takes a much earlier nap than I would prefer, which forces him to take two naps instead of one, which by the end of the day he ends up going to bed later than I would prefer. Every Tuesday baby G eats foods I would not prefer and makes a mess that I would rather he not make. But every Tuesday baby G is cared and nurtured and held lovingly by my mom and dad for the entire time we are gone...I wouldn't trade my every Tuesday for the world. I'm grateful for my mom and dad.
Friday, November 19, 2010
For Sweet Darlin' D...
Thanksgiving #27
Seven turns around the sun today (and this last one flew like a breath) when they laid my darlin' baby D in my arms. I really think that he came out smiling, and he's been beaming ever since. He chose Millers, the restaurant with the windmill and covered wagon, as our breakfast house. It's always got to be unique and memorable with Daniel. The boys ate cinnamon rolls and bacon...argh...but the sweet savory taste ministered to them like you wouldn't believe. Then we headed to the theater for some super hero fun with Megamind in Metrocity, toy shopping, and "eats" Italian style at Olive Garden. Punctuated our evening with "Happy Birthday" over cones of ice cream. He beamed all day as he does most days. I'm grateful for my sweet darlin' D! Happy birthday Darlin!
Notice the cool covered wagon in the background next to the inoperable but interesting-looking windmill....and the birthday boy, Daniel, with his best buddies - brothers.
Seven turns around the sun today (and this last one flew like a breath) when they laid my darlin' baby D in my arms. I really think that he came out smiling, and he's been beaming ever since. He chose Millers, the restaurant with the windmill and covered wagon, as our breakfast house. It's always got to be unique and memorable with Daniel. The boys ate cinnamon rolls and bacon...argh...but the sweet savory taste ministered to them like you wouldn't believe. Then we headed to the theater for some super hero fun with Megamind in Metrocity, toy shopping, and "eats" Italian style at Olive Garden. Punctuated our evening with "Happy Birthday" over cones of ice cream. He beamed all day as he does most days. I'm grateful for my sweet darlin' D! Happy birthday Darlin!
Notice the cool covered wagon in the background next to the inoperable but interesting-looking windmill....and the birthday boy, Daniel, with his best buddies - brothers.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
For song and praise and music...
Thanksgiving #26
Notes and rhythms have filled the halls of our home for about seven years now. I guess you can say that people refer to us as a "muscial" family. Could it be that three of my four boys play the piano? We've feasted on Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Back, Beethoven, Gershwin, and the like...Chopin, Joplin, and Shubert and even Star Wars and Indiana Jones. It's rich and filling and decadent. It's also been a product of hard work, concentration, and challenge. Did you know that God created early man as musical? Yes, it's true! Check out Genesis 4:21 "...Jubal, he was the father of all who played stringed instruments and pipes." That was a time that dates even before the flood. I am deeply grateful for the gift of music and song...raising praise and song to our King.
Notes and rhythms have filled the halls of our home for about seven years now. I guess you can say that people refer to us as a "muscial" family. Could it be that three of my four boys play the piano? We've feasted on Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Back, Beethoven, Gershwin, and the like...Chopin, Joplin, and Shubert and even Star Wars and Indiana Jones. It's rich and filling and decadent. It's also been a product of hard work, concentration, and challenge. Did you know that God created early man as musical? Yes, it's true! Check out Genesis 4:21 "...Jubal, he was the father of all who played stringed instruments and pipes." That was a time that dates even before the flood. I am deeply grateful for the gift of music and song...raising praise and song to our King.
For Yahweh Rophe...
Thanksgiving #25
For some time now...maybe a few months, my Daniel has been fighting this nasty skin attack. The right side of his cheek was being invaded by something awful and was making his beautiful skin red, bumpy, and angry. His skin even bled at times, probably because he scratches it. It was so itchy! I've attempted to combat it with everything I can think of, including of coarse, prayer...praying over him and his cheek with every application of battle. I've used sensitive-skin moisturizer, hydrocoritzone, triamcynalone, band aids...you name it. The steroids seemed to exacerbate the issue, and the band aids left red marks where there were none before. Finally, I took the band aids off and left his skin exposed with only benadryl to keep it from itching and him scratching. It started working. With prayer and patience, and God's healing hand, God touched him and lifted the ailment. He's still healing, but you can hardly tell there was battle on that field of his cheek. Thankful for God's healing hand...He is Yahweh Rophe!!
For some time now...maybe a few months, my Daniel has been fighting this nasty skin attack. The right side of his cheek was being invaded by something awful and was making his beautiful skin red, bumpy, and angry. His skin even bled at times, probably because he scratches it. It was so itchy! I've attempted to combat it with everything I can think of, including of coarse, prayer...praying over him and his cheek with every application of battle. I've used sensitive-skin moisturizer, hydrocoritzone, triamcynalone, band aids...you name it. The steroids seemed to exacerbate the issue, and the band aids left red marks where there were none before. Finally, I took the band aids off and left his skin exposed with only benadryl to keep it from itching and him scratching. It started working. With prayer and patience, and God's healing hand, God touched him and lifted the ailment. He's still healing, but you can hardly tell there was battle on that field of his cheek. Thankful for God's healing hand...He is Yahweh Rophe!!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
For His guard and keep...
Thanksgiving #24
We finished our last football game this season last Saturday night. And what a season!! It wasn't easy but it was fantastically fun. Twas an incredible season filled with growth, gratitude, and God. God led the way, guarded the coarse, and protected their path. I don't have the biggest boys on the team, as you know. You can imagine my concerns...yes, fears...every time they hit the field and every time they hit an opponent. And, every time they hit the field, as I dropped them off, whether it be for practice or game, I prayed over them....every time, without fail. So the moment the buzzer sounded the end of the season and my player walked off the field for the last time, I thanked God for his protection. God guarded my boys, every bone in their body and every sinew in their limbs...God marked their path with His guarded eye. I'm grateful for the Lord's protective watch.
"The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you;
The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace."
~Numbers 6:24-26
The Priestly Blessing above was poured over my boys every time they walked that field.
Now to Him be the glory forever and ever. Grateful for His guard...
Sunday, November 14, 2010
For great friends and good times...
Thanksgiving #23
For couple time with another couple...reflecting, refueling, and reminiscing... This Saturday night Jean-Marc and I shared time, treats, and a table with the marvelous McNeffs. What an endearing couple whose amazing transparency have endeared us to them. We are grateful for the fellowship we share with them. Oh, God is so good to give us such good friends that are so dear to us. Grateful for great friends that share good times...not to mention sassy, spicy Spanish coffees at Huber's.
For couple time with another couple...reflecting, refueling, and reminiscing... This Saturday night Jean-Marc and I shared time, treats, and a table with the marvelous McNeffs. What an endearing couple whose amazing transparency have endeared us to them. We are grateful for the fellowship we share with them. Oh, God is so good to give us such good friends that are so dear to us. Grateful for great friends that share good times...not to mention sassy, spicy Spanish coffees at Huber's.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
For my co-laborer in Christ...
Thanksgiving #22
One of the greatest blessings about being married to my husband is the freedom and honor of coming under his headship. As Christ is the head of the church so is my husband over our family. Christ guides, protects, provides, and leads His flock, and my husband demonstrates the same with his family (or flock). He has physically, emotionally, and spiritually provided leadership for our sweet tribe. He leads us with wisdom and discernment through prayer and God's prompting. It has been my honor to co-labor with him in ministry as pre-marital counselors. My husband has greatly ministered to me as he has ministered to others. Today was such a blessed time as we met with Brad and Lexie, who plan to marry in December. Jean-Marc led our discussion through different facets of marriage and then closed us in prayer. I'm grateful for my co-laborer in Christ, whom I call husband, lover, and friend.
One of the greatest blessings about being married to my husband is the freedom and honor of coming under his headship. As Christ is the head of the church so is my husband over our family. Christ guides, protects, provides, and leads His flock, and my husband demonstrates the same with his family (or flock). He has physically, emotionally, and spiritually provided leadership for our sweet tribe. He leads us with wisdom and discernment through prayer and God's prompting. It has been my honor to co-labor with him in ministry as pre-marital counselors. My husband has greatly ministered to me as he has ministered to others. Today was such a blessed time as we met with Brad and Lexie, who plan to marry in December. Jean-Marc led our discussion through different facets of marriage and then closed us in prayer. I'm grateful for my co-laborer in Christ, whom I call husband, lover, and friend.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
For His Sovereignty...
Thanksgiving #21
For God's sovereignty and His ultimate control over all. Nothing comes to be that doesn't pass through His loving, caring hands. He ordains what comes to be in all of our lives. I will not worry or fret over matters that are ultimately within His Hands. For it is His loving Hands that orchestrates every event in our lives. This last Wednesday, November 3, 2010, we finally heard who would be our new governor of Oregon. We heard what we feared would happen, and we capture our thoughts & fear and yield them to Lord Almighty. Our worldly fear turns to fear of the Lord. He is Creator God. So isn't He then worthy of governing all of our lives? He is the one true Governor. I rejoice. I am grateful for God's Sovereignty. He is my Strength and my Shield...whom shall I fear? I ask...whom shall I fear? No other, than God alone!
For God's sovereignty and His ultimate control over all. Nothing comes to be that doesn't pass through His loving, caring hands. He ordains what comes to be in all of our lives. I will not worry or fret over matters that are ultimately within His Hands. For it is His loving Hands that orchestrates every event in our lives. This last Wednesday, November 3, 2010, we finally heard who would be our new governor of Oregon. We heard what we feared would happen, and we capture our thoughts & fear and yield them to Lord Almighty. Our worldly fear turns to fear of the Lord. He is Creator God. So isn't He then worthy of governing all of our lives? He is the one true Governor. I rejoice. I am grateful for God's Sovereignty. He is my Strength and my Shield...whom shall I fear? I ask...whom shall I fear? No other, than God alone!
For prayer warriors
Thanksgiving #20
Have you been given a gift of a prayer warrior who has petitioned on your behalf? I have that blessing in my life. God in His graciousness blessed me with a dear friend who has served in my life as my advocate, encourager, and prayer warrior. She has been sensitive to the Lord's promptings in such a way that allows her to hear His voice and say just the right thing to a wounded heart or a longing friend seeking wisdom. She has served with me in ministry as a prayer leader and I am grateful for my dear sister, Sandi. This morning I had the blessing of being prayed over and encouraged by my sweet sister, Sandi. Thank you Jesus for the gift of friend we call "sister".
Have you been given a gift of a prayer warrior who has petitioned on your behalf? I have that blessing in my life. God in His graciousness blessed me with a dear friend who has served in my life as my advocate, encourager, and prayer warrior. She has been sensitive to the Lord's promptings in such a way that allows her to hear His voice and say just the right thing to a wounded heart or a longing friend seeking wisdom. She has served with me in ministry as a prayer leader and I am grateful for my dear sister, Sandi. This morning I had the blessing of being prayed over and encouraged by my sweet sister, Sandi. Thank you Jesus for the gift of friend we call "sister".
For the one that I've loved the longest....
Thanksgiving #19
Today wasn't an easy one with our eldest. He's a teenager with all that teenage drama brings. It's not that fun for us nor him. I pray for him everyday...every morning, every night, and throughout. I feel for him and my heart aches and longs that this time would pass quickly. But I'm grateful for my eldest son...the one that I've loved the longest.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
From the old to the new...
Thanksgiving #18
Swirls of red and dots of gold, movement and depth in an ever-changing solid. Today they demolished our old and brought in the new. From old, tired, dingy, rotten tiles to vibrant, glowing, shimmering stone. It's official...today marked the first day of our kitchen remodel. And we started with the countertops. It's the biggest element within the kitchen that has the most impact on the eye...and talk about the "wow" factor. It is hard to believe that something so artistically designed and intricately crafted happened in chance. It's amazement is evidence of the work of God's hand. We have in our kitchen a reminder of the glory of God. I keep walking through the room and marvel over the different areas within the counter and realize no two corners or points are the same. As uniquely as we are made so is every thing that was by HIS hand. Amazing. I am grateful for the work of His Hand!
Swirls of red and dots of gold, movement and depth in an ever-changing solid. Today they demolished our old and brought in the new. From old, tired, dingy, rotten tiles to vibrant, glowing, shimmering stone. It's official...today marked the first day of our kitchen remodel. And we started with the countertops. It's the biggest element within the kitchen that has the most impact on the eye...and talk about the "wow" factor. It is hard to believe that something so artistically designed and intricately crafted happened in chance. It's amazement is evidence of the work of God's hand. We have in our kitchen a reminder of the glory of God. I keep walking through the room and marvel over the different areas within the counter and realize no two corners or points are the same. As uniquely as we are made so is every thing that was by HIS hand. Amazing. I am grateful for the work of His Hand!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Blessed is a nation whose God is Lord...
Thanksgiving #17
For liberties and freedoms often taken for granted. We live in a nation of "entitlement" and "assumings". We assume we are owed and we are deserving for no reason other than we live and breath within this nation we call United States. It very well may not have been my home as I am a first generation immigrant. My parents immigrated here from the Philippine Islands in hopes of "American Dream", whatever that may mean. And, I've found with all of that "Dream", we enjoy liberties that have blessed my parents beyond their dream. Today I have the right to "vote"... to discern and choose right from wrong and truth from lies. I'm grateful for this nation, I pray, whose God is Lord!
Monday, November 1, 2010
For prayer circles...
Thanksgiving #16
Today is Monday and as with every Monday morning, I pray with my dear friends Kathy and Kristen. Every Monday we draw in our prayer circle, and we pray for all that is laid on our hearts. We pray for our families, each other's families, our church, our extended families, our friends, our nation. Tomorrow marks election day. We prayed for an outcome that would glorify God, understanding regardless of outcome, HE is in control and sovereign. We prayed for our children's friends. We praised God for time spent with spouses. We praised God for plenty, and we gave thanks for blessings. I'm thankful for my prayer circle.
Today is Monday and as with every Monday morning, I pray with my dear friends Kathy and Kristen. Every Monday we draw in our prayer circle, and we pray for all that is laid on our hearts. We pray for our families, each other's families, our church, our extended families, our friends, our nation. Tomorrow marks election day. We prayed for an outcome that would glorify God, understanding regardless of outcome, HE is in control and sovereign. We prayed for our children's friends. We praised God for time spent with spouses. We praised God for plenty, and we gave thanks for blessings. I'm thankful for my prayer circle.
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