Enjoying the View

A View from the Fast Lane

2011-11-16T20:36:00.000-10:00

It has been a long time since my last post. Life has taken some unexpected turns in the past few months.

· My oldest is home for a short time, working and earning money to leave again. This time, she’s not only leaving for school, but “really” moving out.

· I’ve started substitute teaching here and there.

· My 15 year old niece has come to live with us for the school year. That means that I have four teenage girls and one pre-teen boy in the house.

· My homeschooling is in full swing with a 6^th grader, two sophomores, and one senior.

· Mark and I have aging parents with various health issues that need constant attention.

Needless to say, we have our hands full.

So that is the view that I am currently enjoying. Enjoying? Yes… most of the time. Stress is unavoidable. But God is giving us grace beyond what we could imagine. Mark and I celebrated 25 years of marriage in October. What an amazing gift. Family times are precious as we try to make playing together a priority.

During this time away from my blog, I’ve been really wondering what direction it will take in this season of my life. I’ve always tried to make it a reflection of what I’m learning or what is occupying my thoughts the most. Right now, that consists of dealing with a busy schedule, raising teens and the extravagant love of God. Sounds like I could stay busy for quite a while with those topics.

I’m not an expert on blogs or blogging, but the mom blogs that I read are typically written by moms with young children. I haven’t found many that deal with a house full of teens. (Please send me your favorite links!) That’s where I am, so that’s what I’ll be writing about for the near future.

I’ve read a lot of parenting books in my career as a mom – just ask my husband. I love my kids so much. I want to be the best mom I can for them. I know that I’ve made many mistakes. As my kids get older, the seeds that were sown in their youth are bearing fruit – for better or for worse. Now, as we near the time when they will fly out of my nest, I feel an urgency to make the most of the days, months and years that I have left. I'm like a kid that realizes that summer vacation is almost over and has a ton of stuff yet to do. I know that I must be more intentional about parenting before this season of my life is over.

The books that I love on this topic are: Age of Opportunity, by Paul David Tripp and Loving our Kids on Purpose by Danny Silk. Writing about what I’m learning will help me process the information as well as pass it on.

The situations in my life that cause stress will not be changing any time soon, so finding balance in my life is key to my ~~survival~~ existence. I don’t merely want to survive – I want the abundant life that was promised me by my Savior, Jesus. It's out there, I just need to carve out space to rest and receive it.

I think I'll paraphrase the apostle Paul and say, "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether too busy or rested, whether living in peace or in stress."

"I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Philippians 4:13 NLT

Where's the Wonder?

2011-08-20T11:56:00.000-10:00

It's a sign of the times. I think my kids have missed the "wonder years." I remember being a kid and having profound times of wonder. I'd wonder things like, "How do they get that cream inside the Twinkies?" "When astronauts sneeze, to they shoot backwards?" "Who invented the first pogo stick, and more importantly, why?" These kinds of questions would keep me busy for hours. I'd have a thought like this and just have to say, "Hmmmm, I wonder...."

Now, when my kids have an "I wonder..." moment, they immediately go to the internet and find out. Their sense of wonder truly lasts only a moment. At 3G speed, they instantly have more information at their fingertips than they really wanted or needed to know. Don't get me wrong. I love that they want to know and have a way to find out. That's been one of my homeschooling goals all along - instill a love of learning and the skills to do so. But... Where's the wonder?

The feeling of wonder comes with the realization that the world is a big place. There are things out there that are yet to be discovered. Now, so much of the mystery of life has been eliminated. It may be the kind of change our world went through with the invention of the airplane. With the faster modes of transportation, we lost the experience of the journey. (And TSA hasn't helped either...)

This leads me to other "I wonder" questions. Will this loss of wonder spill over into our spiritual lives? Will this generation tolerate a God that is larger than our understanding? Will a God of Wonders hold the attention of the knowledge-at-my-fingertips Church? I pray that she will be able to embrace the wonder of God and not stumble over His mystery. After all, if God could be "Googled" in His entirety, what kind of God would He be?

Psalm 17:6-8

I call on you, O God, for you will answer me;
give ear to me and hear my prayer.
Show the wonder of your great love,
you who save by your right hand

those who take refuge in you from their foes.
Keep me as the apple of your eye;
hide me in the shadow of your wings

Enough is enough... Really it is!

2011-07-20T08:24:00.003-10:00

I've just spent the last couple of weeks pouring over curriculum catalogs and websites... You'd think that after 14 years of homeschooling, I'd have made up my mind what to use. The problem is, no two kids are alike and new materials are coming out every year. But the biggest reason that I'm making a change this year is that I'm spending too much time planning each week. It's not uncommon for me to have to work 3-5 hours on the weekend just to be ready for the next week. Enough is enough.

As a recovering perfectionist, it always seems to me that there is more that I should be doing for my kids. Planning their work and preparing just the right lessons had begun to consume me, much to the chagrin of my family. I've come to the point where I must admit, it's just not working for me. I love my old curriculum, but at this season of my life, I can't afford the time it takes. So the search began. How to find a curriculum with the educational value I want, without all the hours of preparation? I had to find the balance of "enough". I've settled on something that will give my kids enough history, math, language arts, science and supplemental learning without ruining our life.

I don't know about you, but when I think about the word "enough," it has a negative connotation. Maybe because it is often preceded by the phrase, "not good." Enough always seems to be the amount that is just getting by. A disappointed second place...enough.

–adjective

adequate for the want or need; sufficient for the purpose or to satisfy desire: enough water; noise enough to wake the dead.

–pronoun

an adequate quantity or number; sufficiency.

–adverb

in a quantity or degree that answers a purpose or satisfies a need or desire; sufficiently.

—Synonyms 1. ample. 3. adequately, amply, reasonably.

According to these Dictionary.com entries, I should be satisfied with enough. It says that enough is "adequate; sufficient for the purpose..." Perhaps I've fallen victim to the mindset that I must have more than enough, an over-abundance of something to feel secure. Could the consumer mentality have crept in even here? Maybe so. If I have enough ingredients to make cookies, don't I end up with perfectly good cookies? More than enough does me no good. It may even be wasted.

In thinking about "enough," I've discovered that my subconscious aversion to it has tainted a well-known Christian song, Your Grace Is Enough, by Chris Tomlin. We sing it quite often but I can't help feeling that old skin-of-my-teeth enough. That's not the meaning of the song. God's grace is enough; adequate; sufficient for the purpose.. The need of my sin was adequately met by the blood of Jesus.

So in my journey to a more simple life, I must embrace enough. I have enough possessions. I have enough food to eat. I have enough time to do what needs to be done. And by the time my children leave my home school, they will have learned enough. But most importantly, God's grace is enough to cover all my sin, all my failings, and all my need. Jesus is enough.

Learning to Enjoy the View of the Valley

2011-07-17T15:17:00.003-10:00

Today is one of those days... a day where I have more questions than answers. A day where the journey ahead seems a bit too long. This is a day that I struggle to enjoy the view.

I have a dear friend who is suffering an illness that is taking her away from me. It's taking her away from everyone - even herself. It's scary. I feel helpless. I want to fix it but can't.

It's days like this that knock me off my feet and make me wish for heaven. The longer I live, the more I yearn for all of the pain in this life to be over. Growing up was supposed to fix all the longings in my heart. Now, there seem to be more longings, not less. I wanted a world were everyone was loved, where families stayed together, where no one got sick, and only ancient saints were called to heaven. I wanted heaven on earth. But we're not there yet, and God in His wisdom is not bound by my fleeting emotions.

Days like this tempt me to hide in my shell. To play Scarlet O'Hara and "..think about it tomorrow." To turn off my emotions so I don't feel the pain. But that's not living. Being alive is feeling everything - joy as well as pain. I've spent far too many seasons of my life pushing hard emotions aside. I've used denial as a means of survival. I don't want to live like that anymore.

How can I accept the blessings of God and not endure the pain? How can I ask for the mountain top but refuse the lessons of the valley? How can I depend on a faithful God, if there is no need for faith? How can Jesus be my Prince of Peace if there is no chaos? Ah, but there is pain and loss and chaos. So will I run to the One who holds all of life in His hands or will I pull the covers over my head and curse the darkness?

Days like these demand that I call on the One who I profess to be my Good Shepherd, the Vine, and Lover of my Soul. Days like these allow the Holy Spirit to be my Comforter and Friend. Opening myself up to the pain is the only way that the Healing can come in. It's worth the risk. Jesus is Faithful and True. He is the Way and the Life.

So I will feel the pain of today for I am alive to feel it. I may not have all the answers, but what I do know is this: God is good and I am loved. That's the only way to enjoy the view...

Looking at Jesus with New Eyes

2011-07-15T15:35:00.000-10:00

One thing that makes us unique as individuals is the way we see the world around us. If you ask three people about the same movie, you are likely to get three very different answers. Did they really see the same move? Of course, but each one interpreted what they saw based on who they are and what life experiences shaped them up to this point. Each one has a different "world view."

All of us have a world view. We may not call it that, but its the way that we personally see the world. Everything we are flows out of our world view. It affects how we receive information and it also colors how we give out information. There are many things that contribute to the formation of our world view such as culture, economic status, family make-up, education, and even how far one's traveled from home. Knowing a bit about someones world view helps a great deal in understanding what they say and what they do. It serves as a framework to interpreting the full content of their message and intentions.

So why is that important? Well, if I don't know a persons world view, I will be inclined to interpret what I hear by my world view. This can cause a wrong interpretation of the message completely. For example, let's take the biblical example of "turn the other cheek." My Christian world view says that this is an exercise in humility and grace, while a non-Christian world view may see this as weakness and foolishness. This is a basic example that is pretty obvious. But what about other subtle world view differences.

Recently, I picked up a book called, Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus: How the Jewishness of Jesus Can Transform Your Faith, by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg. I've only gotten a few chapters read but already I can see new insights into the world view of Jesus. The place and time, culture and faith of Jesus colored the way He spoke to the people. New Testament scholars wrote the Scriptures based on their world view as well and assumed that the readers would share that world view.

One insight that I found personally exciting was the fact that,

"women were encouraged to sit in on the advanced discussions at the synagogue if they were able. A few even acquired the high-level education required to contribute to rabbinic debates, and their words are still on record. Some restrictions on women, like separating men and women during worship, actually arose several centuries later."

Mary of Bethany was one of those women. We always see her at the feet of Jesus. Now I know that she was a true disciple. I love that.

The authors go on to say,

"If you were a first-century Jew, you probably would have heard a saying in circulation for at least a hundred years: 'Let your house be a meeting place for the rabbis, and cover yourself in the dust of their feet, and drink in their words thirstily.'"[Mishnah, Pirke Avot (Sayings of the Fathers) 1:4.]

That's exactly what Mary and Martha chose to do. Just these two bits of Jewish culture give such richness to the women in Jesus' life that I already admire. I'm looking forward to more understanding in the days to come.

I agree with Paul when he said,

...that they may know the mystery of God, even Christ,

in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hidden.

Colossians 2:2-3 (ASV)

There is so much to learn about the mystery of God. True disciples are the ones that sit close enough to the rabbi to learn. The mysteries of Jesus are not hidden so no one will find them. They are hidden so that the diligent and hungry will search and find them! It's kind of like hiding Easter eggs from your kids. When they are little, the eggs are practically in plain sight. But as the kids get older, more creative hiding places are needed. Not because we don't want the eggs to be found - that would be a sticky disaster. There is joy is searching and finding. God's knows us. It is His delight to reveal things hidden. And they are all to be found in Jesus!

Let the River Flow

2011-07-07T15:21:00.003-10:00

I love when God surprises me. It happens quite a lot. There are times when the Lord brings things into my little by little. He moves so gently that I don't even realize it. Remember this pacesetter post? I guess it's time to put my money where my mouth is...

Today, I met with a young woman who wants me to be her mentor. I was blown away when she asked me. What a huge responsibility. My first (unspoken) response was, "Who me? What do I have to offer?" (That's been my enemies favorite lie. I will fight it all my life.) But as I prayed about it, I realized that God has been preparing me for this for many years. I even found a book on my shelf about women's mentoring ministry that's been there for about 12 years....unused.

With all that's going on in my life, will I really be able to give what's needed to keep up my end of this relationship? I must trust that this is God's timing. He will enable me to give what He wants me to give. He is my resource. He is my strength. Any fears I have about being a mentor come when I'm thinking about using my strengths, my knowledge, and my ability. That wont do this sweet woman any good. It's in taking what our gracious Lord has given me, and passing it on. Why learn all those hard lessons? Not just for my own benefit. They become blessings when I can share them with others.

“Anyone who is thirsty may come to me!

Anyone who believes in me may come and drink!

For the Scriptures declare,

‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”

- Jesus, from John 7:37-39 (NLT)

If the Lord's Spirit is within me, but there's no out-flow, I become a stagnant pool like the Dead Sea. The life giving water will turn to death, benefiting no one. It's my hearts desire to let Jesus's living water flow through me and into another. Not only do I benefit, but so do those around me. What a better way to build the Kingdom of God.

(Thanks, Cindy!)

The Offenses of Jesus: A Strange and Difficult Message

2011-06-28T10:15:00.006-10:00

(This is Enjoying the View's 100th post!)

When I started this series, I gave an introduction that explained the premise. I said that Jesus used the tactic of offense to reveal the hearts of His listeners. Jesus often used it to reveal the motives of the Pharisees. But I've found an offense that Jesus used to reveal the reason why He came to Earth. He was not engaging the Pharisees, but his own followers. This conversation was not merely a tactic of Jesus to reveal and adjust perception of Him, but in my opinion, the most foundational principle that defines the relationship that each follower will have with Christ. Jesus revealed the very meaning behind His death on the cross. A meaning that his disciples could never have anticipated.

The passage is found in John 6 (This link takes you to BibleGateway.com. The Amplified Bible and New Living Translation are parallel.) It's a long chapter, but all parts of the story are so important to the meaning of Jesus' words. There is a reason that the scholars lumped all these stories into one chapter!

In verse 1-15, we read the familiar story of Jesus feeding the 5000+ people. They are so impressed with their free meal, they get the idea to seize Jesus and make Him their king. That is not in Jesus' plan so He "withdraws" to the hillside alone. He stays away until after dark. The disciples (the Twelve) decided to put off in the boat and head for Capernaum. A storm kicks up. Working as hard as they can, they only get about 3 or 4 miles off shore.   Then they see Jesus walking on the water toward them. They are understandably terrified. Once Jesus speaks, "I AM; stop being frightened," they gladly let Him in the boat. Verse 21 says that immediately they arrived at their destination. (Ponder that for a moment...)

The next day, many of the followers (disciples, but not the Twelve) caught up with Jesus at the synagogue. Jesus knew their hearts and minds. They followed because they wanted more free food! (vs. 26) Jesus admonishes them to stop striving for food that perishes but work for the food which lasts for eternity.

Okay...how do we do that? Jesus gives them the good news - "This is the work that God asks of you: that you believe in the One Whom He has sent [that you cleave to, trust, rely on, and have faith in His Messenger]." (vs. 29)

But they still were not satisfied. They came for the free food. Show us more, Jesus... Moses gave our ancestors manna. What can you give us?

So Jesus brings them back to the real lesson of the bread multiplied on the hillside. He reminds them that Moses didn't give them manna, God did. And God has living bread to give them, and it is Jesus Himself. "I am the Bread of Life."

At this, the Jews began to grumble against Jesus, after all, this is just Joseph's kid. How can Jesus be the one that came down from heaven. He grew up around here. We know his folks... (Be careful of your assumptions of Jesus... Jesus was not Joseph's son.)

But instead of backing off His message, Jesus continued, "I [Myself] and the Living Bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this Bread, he will live forever; and also the Bread that I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh (body)." (vs. 51)

At this point, I'm sure that the Twelve are beside themselves. This is not the way to build followers. Jesus is going to drive off all the new people!

Despite the negative reaction, Jesus keeps pressing the point, "He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood dwells continually in Me, and I [in like manner dwell continually] in him." (vs. 56)

Now the Jews are truly offended. Everything they new about holy living told them to avoid consuming blood. This was too much for them to accept. The Amplified Bible puts it this way, "This is a hard and difficult and strange saying (an offensive and unbearable message). Who can stand to hear it? [Who can be expected to listen to such a teaching?] (vs. 60)

Yes, this was a radical message, like nothing they had every heard before. The offense to the mind was now to reveal what was in their hearts. Jesus knew their intellectual struggle.  So He challenged them one step further and said, "Is this a stumbling block and an offense to you? What then [will be your reaction] if you should see the Son of Man ascending to [the place] where He was before?"

Jesus assures them that the words He speaks are spirit and life. And no one can come to Him unless it is granted by the Father. Now they must choose. Following Jesus was not going to be a free picnic. Jesus' followers must come to Him in the manner that only the Father designed.

In verse 66, we see that some of the disciples (not the Twelve) turned away. They gave up following Jesus and went back to their old lives. So Jesus turns to the Twelve who have been watching and listening. He asks them, "Will you also leave?"

Simon Peter speaks up, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words (message) of eternal life. And we have learned to believe...that You are the Holy One of God, the Christ."   Yes, Jesus words where hard to understand. But one thing Peter knew. His words contained life. There was no one else who could speak that way. They had seen the bread multiplied and picked up the leftovers. They had seen Him walk on water. They had learned to believe.

When Jesus' words are hard to understand, we would do well to learn to believe them. It is a process. Believing involves an intentional cleaving to, trusting, relying on. Remember what Jesus said was the real work of following God? It was to believe in His Messenger! When I trust the One who says the words, I know I can trust the understanding to come in time.

Jesus was giving them the secret to eternal life. A life that brought us back from spiritual exile and into a life where Jesus dwells within us. A life reconciled with our Heavenly Father. The very reason He came.

In time, the Twelve understood the meaning of these hard and offensive words. They just had to stick around long enough to fine out!

Are you wrestling with words of Jesus that are hard to understand? Is He asking you to do something that doesn't make sense? Maybe it's your assumptions of Jesus that are throwing you off. Get back to the basics of His word. Trust Him. Keep seeking Him. Don't miss the greater understanding that you will receive in time!

Looking Back, Looking Forward

2011-06-22T10:07:00.000-10:00

Have you ever had a moment in your life when you knew you were at a crossroads? A moment that you knew things in your life would never be the same? I remember a time when I was 18. My parents had decided to move away from Hawaii and go to the mainland. I was a sophomore in college in San Diego. They brought me home during the Christmas break to pack my room and say goodbye to my Hawaii friends.

I remember sitting on my bed in the midst of the boxes.  I felt devastated. Everything I knew about home was about to change. Always one to have music playing, the song that filled the room at that moment was, "Because He Lives."  It was like the light broke through my darkness and I felt a peace like never before. A peace I desperately needed. Whatever lay ahead, I knew that Jesus was with me. I could face all the uncertain days with Him at my side.

Fast-forward 28 years down the line. Here I am. When I look back at all that's happened during those years I am amazed. There have been plenty of joys and sorrows.   I graduated from college, married my sweetheart, and have had four beautiful children. But I've lost both my parents, and all my grandparents. I've been up and down financially. I've felt many victories and defeats. But through it all, Jesus has been my rock. His resurrection power and grace in my life have given me the strength to face every day.

At our recent women's retreat, we sang that song. It struck me that the truth of that song still rings true in my life. Because Jesus lives, I can face tomorrow.   Because He lives, all fear is gone. Life IS worth the living. Sitting on my bed those many years ago, I never could have imagined what would come my way. But faith in a faithful God makes it possible to face everyday without fear.   Oh, fear does come, but I have somewhere to take that fear - to the feet of Jesus.

Lord, my heart is not proud;
my eyes are not haughty.
I don’t concern myself with matters too great
or too awesome for me to grasp.
Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself,
like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother’s milk.
Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me.

O Israel, put your hope in the Lord—
now and always.

Psalm 131 (NLT)

I am grateful for the time a slower schedule brings. Time to look back and what Jesus has done in my life, and time to look forward knowing He holds the future.

Camping at Kualoa - now I know it's really summer!

2011-06-18T16:12:00.000-10:00

"Chinaman's Hat" off of Kualoa Beach Park in Kaneohe Bay

Our summer hit full swing this weekend as we're out at Kualoa Beach Park for camp. Spending time with biological family and our faith family is what summer is all about.

Whatever you're doing this weekend, I pray you'll find a bit of rest and relaxation. God's creation is all around and speaks of His glory. Get outside, find a shady spot and enjoy His presence!

The Lord is merciful and compassionate,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
The Lord is good to everyone.
He showers compassion on all his creation.
All of your works will thank you, Lord,
and your faithful followers will praise you.

Psalm 145:8-10 (NLT)

The Source

2011-06-14T10:58:00.011-10:00

There is a lot of talk these days about getting back the the source. A trend to simplicity is in fashion now. And that's a good thing. We're learning the value of buying local, supporting local farmers, and keeping fuel consumption down by buying products that are produced within 100 miles of our homes. Living on an island in the middle of the Pacific, that's not an easy task for me. They say that Hawaii is the most remote location on the planet. While standing in the grocery store, I fully believe it.

But it's not just in food that finding the source is important. Finding the source of information is critical to knowing the worth of that information. We live in the information age, where we have an abundance of knowledge right at our finger tips. But as you well know, just because it's available, doesn't mean it's credible. Finding the source is always the place to start when looking for authentic, un-edited, and un-spun information.

Our journey of faith is no different. Thanks to our information age, we have an abundance of information that aids us in our relationship with Jesus.

Christian music: There is no doubt that music speaks to my soul and brings me into the Lord's presence. But if I'm just listening to my music without connecting to the Source, I'm not really getting the full benefit of this resource. (Wow, just that word "resource" shows me I'm off the mark.)
Christian books: I am a voracious reader. I have trouble reading fiction, but love to read what other's have written on following Jesus and living this faith. But mostly, I'm reading about other people's experience. It's helpful in my own walk, but the Lord wants to show me things first hand, too.
Christian speakers: I love to listen to sermons by people who truly know the Lord and teach of His truths. But in a court of law, when they tell me what Jesus said, it would be hearsay.
The Bible: I'm sure we can all agree that this is a crucial source material. Jesus' words are given to us in black and white (and maybe even red). We learn of His character, how He lived His life among us in flesh. We learn the history of God in dealing with His people. We hear the stories of the faithful and unfaithful. It is the source for building our faith and gives of the parameters we need to follow Jesus with all we have. I must daily read the words of Jesus to connect with Him. There is only one more source that trumps it...
Time in the presence of Jesus: There is no better way to connect with the heart of God than to sit at His feet. Time with my Bible is vital to understand God's ways but I have had seasons of my life where I read the Bible and left there unchanged. The give and take of prayer and listening builds relationship. When I am parched an dry, time in His presence restores my soul. How can I get to know Him without spending time with Him? That is my personal responsibility to this relationship. No one can do it for me. It is a privilege I cherish and frankly what sets Christianity apart from any other religion that I know. Our God is personal, alive and active in our lives.

Jesus is the Source. A great example of this is found in John 1:36-40. John the Baptist has just declared that Jesus is the Messiah that all have been waiting for. He tells two of his own disciples that Jesus is the one. One of these disciples is Andrew. Without hesitation, he leaves the one whom Jesus said, "Of all who ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist." (Matt. 11:11) Andrew had found the Source. He left the great to follow Jesus, the Greatest!

I regularly use the resources above. I'm so grateful for them! But there is no substitute for getting to the Source.

This morning I was listening to a podcast that was talking about fresh maple syrup. She said that once you taste the straight-from-the-forest syrup, you can never be satisfied with the rest. That is so true with Jesus. Once you taste of His goodness firsthand, you can never settle for anything less.

Enjoy His presence today, for in it there is fullness of JOY!

The Offenses of Jesus: The Women, Part 2

2011-06-10T13:01:00.000-10:00

The sisters, Mary and Martha, are two more women that we read about in Jesus' life. John 11, tells about a time when their brother, Lazarus is very sick and eventually dies. Jesus is a two-day journey away and yet when He hears the news, He doesn't just pick up and go. He waits.

The disciples may have thought that Jesus stayed where He was because the Jews in Judea were trying to stone Jesus (v. 8). But Jesus had a much bigger reason than that, something that would bring more glory to His Father. Jesus said, "This will help you believe..." (v. 15).

I don't know about you, but I would be offended by Jesus' delay. My good friend, Jesus, has the power to heal and He doesn't come running to help when I call Him. It seems that the sisters felt a bit offended as well and may have had a few conversations about it because when they see Jesus, they say exactly the same thing to Him, "If you had been here my brother would not have died." I've had a few conversations like that myself, "If only Jesus would ________!" Just fill in the blank.

But let's get back to the sisters. First Martha (of course) comes out to meet Jesus while He's still on the way. She still can't wait. I love her. In the midst of her offense, she still believes He can do anything. It's as if to say, "I know plan A didn't happen, but You must have a plan B in mind, right?" Jesus assures Martha that Lazarus will rise again. But Martha wants specifics (you go girl!), and replies with her belief that her brother will be raised with everyone else "in the resurrection at the last day (v. 24)."

So what did Jesus' offense reveal about Martha? I see a heart that longs to understand. Even in her confusion about what Jesus is doing, she comes to him, honestly confronts Him, and states her belief in who He is. Jesus reveals Himself to her in plain language, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying....Do you believe this, Martha?" Her reply is a proclamation and is just as profound as the one Peter makes in Luke 9:18-20. She says, "Yes, Lord, I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God."

And where is Mary? She is grieving. She must be told that Jesus is here. Her first impulse is to return to the place she loves, she falls at Jesus' feet. She is desperate for Him, and yet the same words flow, "If only..." Even in her offense, Mary is steadfast. She holds to Jesus. Her heart is revealed by her actions.

Seeing His friends grieve, even with the knowledge that a miracle is just minutes away, Jesus takes time to feel. He joins in their weeping. He reveals His own heart.

Could it be that our hard lessons in faith are hard on the Savior as well?

You know the rest of the story. Martha is unsure about moving the stone - the stink will be awful. But Jesus is not deterred. The One who is Life brings life. Jesus' way of handling this situation bestows salvation not only to a family but also to the community. His ways are always higher than our ways.

Some of my lingering questions:

Since the stone was rolled away, could they see life return to a rotting body?
Did the smell disappear when life came?
What did Lazarus say?

Sometimes I wish there was a gospel written by one of the women. We love details and she wouldn't have let us down! I guess I'll wait to ask Jesus when I see Him face to face.

So what can I learn from Mary and Martha? There will be times in my life when I don't understand the timing of Jesus. Will I run to Him and sit at His feet? Will I remind myself of who Jesus is and stand on what I know to be true? Will I wait for His solutions and get the greater blessing for it?

I hope so. That is my hearts desire.

Summer is Here! Housekeeping on the blog.

2011-06-07T11:41:00.000-10:00

I love summer! The change of pace is always something I look forward to as much as my kids. My project list gets long and with it expectations of how the days will go. As you probably know, that is a recipe for disaster. You'd think I'd learn by now. But every year about this time, I have to look at my lists and prioritize them. What do I REALLY want and need to get done.

One of the things on my list is to better organize this blog. I hope to be working on some format changes. I also want to do a better job at planning my posts. Case in point, I really should have titled my Offenses of Jesus posts better. I wrote one week about the Faith of a Gentile woman and then the next about the Women in Jesus' Life, Part 1. Well, technically the Gentile woman should have been Part 1 and the story of Simon and the "notorious sinner" woman should have been Part 2. I 'm almost finished with "Part 3" on Mary and Martha at Lazarus' tomb. I'm not sure how to fix that... I'll probably just have to leave it as is - lessons learned. Thanks for your grace!

I have a new goal for the fall. I'm planning on running in the Windward Half Marathon in September. Lord willing, I'd like to blog about my journey to that race. The Lord speaks to me so much while I run. I'd hate to keep it all to myself.

But with all my planning, there are some things happening that I just couldn't have foreseen. For instance, I thought I'd have my oldest home for the summer. But she has decided to stay in California and work before school starts again for her in the fall. I also didn't expect to be applying for substitute teaching positions at two Christian schools but the Lord seems to be giving me an alternative to bookkeeping for work. Thirdly, I didn't expect that we'd be selling our beloved sailboat. But God is good and I am loved. Those facts keep me centered and peace is within reach.

My verse for this summer:

The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
He delights in every detail of their lives.
Though they stumble, they will never fall,
for the Lord holds them by the hand.

Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT)

The seasons may change, but our God never changes. HE is good. He IS good. He is GOOD.

The Offenses of Jesus – The Women in Jesus’ Life, part 1

2011-05-23T18:12:00.000-10:00

There are several instances that Jesus has opportunity to reveal the hearts around Him in his encounters with women. It is amazing how Jesus consistently breaks the cultural barriers to show His love and honor to the women in His life. I’ve heard it said that Christianity is demeaning to women. Well, if it is, it’s not what Jesus modeled for us.

For example, the story of the woman found in Luke 7:36-50. Jesus has been invited to the home of Simon the Pharisee for dinner. In verse 37, the Amplified version says that “a woman of the town, an especially wicked sinner…brought an alabaster flask of ointment (perfume).” She comes to anoint Jesus. Her love for Jesus is so great that she can’t stay away, even when she must come into the presence of people who despise her. She can’t even face Jesus. She comes up behind him and starts weeping, wetting his feet with her tears and wiping them with her hair. She kisses His feet and anoints them with the ointment.

Here is where the offense is made. The Pharisee sees all of this happening and says to himself, “If this man was a prophet, he would surely know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him – for she is a notorious sinner (a social outcast, devoted to sin).” (vs. 39) Jesus replies to him, even though he never voiced his opinion, with a story.

A certain lender of money [at interest] who had two debtors: one owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. When they had no means of paying, he freely forgave them both. Now which of them will love him more? Simon answered, "The one, I take it, for whom he forgave and cancelled more." And Jesus said to him, "You have decided correctly." (vs. 41-43)

Jesus takes the opportunity to honor this wicked woman. He turns to her while still talking to Simon. He points out to Simon that she is the one who is lavishing love, while he did not even give the common courtesies of the day – water for his feet, a kiss of greeting, and oil to anoint His head. “Therefore I tell you, her sins, many [as they are], are forgiven her – because she has loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves little.” (vs. 47)

There are so many things that strike me about this passage. First, the woman. She is so bold. Her love for Jesus compels her to Him, no matter what others will think. She is lavish and extravagant with her love; expensive perfume, her own tears and her un-bound hair. She doesn't let the criticism of the Pharisee stop her. Her love must be expressed. She knows the love Jesus has for her. It is done in response to Jesus, not in order to receive anything from Him. The result? She is saved and takes with her the peace of Christ. “Your faith has saved you; go (enter) into the peace [in freedom from all the distresses that are experienced as the result of sin].” (vs. 50)

Jesus is amazing in this passage. He is not the least bit upset or embarrassed by her behavior. He lets her continue what she is doing. He knows He is worthy of these acts of love. He receives them with grace and compassion. He stops whatever was going on at the party to address the situation. He doesn’t tell her to come back later. Simon is offended that Jesus would let this notorious woman touch Him. The Pharisee didn’t treat Jesus with honor that He should have received. Is Jesus offended? No, he uses the moment of Simon’s offense, and reveals the hardness of his heart. Jesus gently leads the Pharisee to the truth with the story of the debts forgiven. To Jesus, it was all about love and forgiveness, not “political correctness” at the dinner party.

Jesus allowed the woman to express herself just as she wanted. He accepted the anointing she gave Him. He understood the intent and received it. Although she starts out behind Jesus, He turns to her, even as He speaks to Simon and tells His story. There is no question that Simon gets the meaning of the story. He answered correctly. The one who is forgiven much, loves much.

This is one of my favorite stories. The Lord has used it in my life as a reality check. I must admit that I have stood in the place of the Pharisee. It's easy for me to forget how much I have been forgiven. The truth is that Jesus had to die for both the Pharisee's sin and the wicked woman's sin. Sin is sin, and any of it separates us from God. Just because I may not have been a "notorious sinner" doesn't mean I don't need forgiveness. I would paraphrase what Jesus said for my own life: The one who remembers how much she is forgiven, loves much. The one who forgets how much she's been forgiven, loves little.

I knew I had lost my "first love" with Jesus when I saw other people with a greater passion for Jesus than I had. I was jealous. I would read the psalms of David and think, "What an emotional man." I would listen to people like Beth Moore and think, "Wow, she really loves Jesus." I wanted that. I had been living an emotionally dead faith. This story woke me up to the reality that I had become ungrateful for the forgiveness I had received. Only by remembering the value of the forgiveness given, could my passion for Jesus be revived.

I know this post is a lot longer than my others. Thanks for hanging with me today. I just can't say enough about this story. Just as with Simon, Jesus gently offended my mind to reveal my heart. He rescued me from my emotional prison and freed me to love Him. He is worthy of all the love I can give.

Back to reality...

2011-05-16T18:52:00.000-10:00

On arriving to our church's annual Women's Retreat, my spirit was tired and my body was needing rest. On returning home from the retreat, my spirit felt revived, but my body still needed a nap.

We had a wonderful time. The Lord is so faithful. He always takes my small offering and multiplies it into the more-than-enough that He provides. Everyone who was able to attend "caught" the transforming power of eucharisteo - the thanksgiving, grace, and joy. It was so amazing to see the light bulbs go on above their heads. I couldn't have been happier. To see my friends fall in love with Ann Voskamp and her book was priceless. Jesus spoke His love to each lady and the joy filled the room. There were almost a dozen new Gift Lists started this weekend!

I can't think of a better book to take along on a girl's getaway weekend! I highly recommend it!

So now, back to reality. Fortunately, my new reality contains the tools I need to live with a thankful heart, receiving all that God has for me as a gift of grace, and the joy of His presence. Bring it on!

Enjoying the View is becoming more than a blog name.

2011-05-09T17:33:00.005-10:00

When I started this blog, I searched for a name that would represent me. Something that I've always loved is a great view. I'll endure quite a bit just to see one (as you may have noticed by my hiking posts...). But as with a lot of things in my life, the name is evolving to mean more than just a physical view of my surroundings. A view can also be a perspective of life, like a world view.

This week, I'm busy working on retreat presentations. Our topic for this year is from Ann Voskamp's book, One Thousand Gifts: Daring to Live Fully Right Where You Are. If you haven't read it, I highly recommend it. One of the main points of the book is learning to see what God is placing right in front of you as a gift from Him. All of life is a grace that is meant to be received with gratitude. Eucharisteo is the Greek word that breaks down into three: Eucharisteo = thanksgiving, Chara = joy and Charis = grace. Such a power-packed word. I'm learning to look around with new eyes. I look for the beauty of the ordinary; a rainbow, a sunset, a child's smile, a piece of bread. I look for the joy even in the hard things as Jesus did - but for the joy set before Him, endured the cross.

This looking for the God-gifts is not easy. It takes deliberate effort, practice. I've been trying to make a list to 1000 for quite awhile now. I must admit. I haven't been adding to it lately and I miss it. As I look over my previous posts that have a portion of my list, I instantly feel the joy that came along with those entries. Counting gifts makes me feel God's love for me. That's a view that I will always enjoy, right where I am - no hiking necessary!

So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 5:15-20 NLT

Retreat on the horizon....Waterfall in the rear view...

2011-05-03T10:09:00.000-10:00

I ask for your grace for the next two weeks. Our annual Women's Retreat is May 13-15, and I need prepare. I'll try to keep in touch, but my study focus needs to be on our retreat material.

Keeping with my "Enjoying the View" theme....

We found this fun water hole on a short hike in Kahaluu. Nice clear, cold water to dip our feet in. Sorry about the graffiti. Can't seem to get away from it. One person's art...

Mark was carving Andrew's name, not ours....

Nice shot by the waterfall.

Smooch!

But just so you don't think it's so easy to get these shots, I'll show you how graceful I was on the way down.
My daughter, Rachael, was all too happy to document the moment!

We were standing on a water pipe about 5 feet off the ground.

I'm too scared to jump...

Maybe if I squat down first...

I look like a frog..

Who me? I'm always this graceful...

The older I get, the easier it is for me to laugh at myself. I can't take myself too seriously!

But as for me, I will sing about your power.

Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love.

For you have been my refuge,

a place of safety when I am in distress.

O my Strength, to you I sing praises,

for you, O God, are my refuge,

the God who shows me unfailing love.

Psalm 59:16-17

Have a great day!

This is my solomn vow....

2011-04-29T10:43:00.000-10:00

In honor of William and Kate, here's a re-post:

I love weddings. I never used to cry at them, until I got married myself. Now I can hardly even watch one without crying - even if it's on TV. I think it is because once you enter into that marriage covenant and live a few years together, those vows really take on meaning. A starry-eyed bride can not begin to understand what she's saying. But don't try to tell her that... She's making them in faith.

Here is a copy of the vows my groom and I made to each other:

I, (Karelin/Mark),

take thee (Mark/Karelin),

to be my wedded (husband/wife),

to have and to hold from this day forward,

for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer,

in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish,

'til death do us part,

according to God's holy ordinance;

this is my solemn vow.

During my quiet time this week, it dawned on me that a prayer of surrender to the LORD is very much like the vows I made at my wedding. When I give myself fully to my Savior, it is for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness or in health, to love and to cherish.... I make these vows in faith, too. A new believer can't really know what lay ahead in his journey with Jesus. But there is a trust, a knowing that God is a good and faithful God. "Perfect love casts out fear," and day by day, those vows take on new meaning.

There is no better groom than Jesus. He remains faithful, even when I do not. He loves me completely, even though I am just learning to love Him. The best part is, there is no "'til death do us part."

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

Now that's romantic! *sniff*

This LORD's day, I want to come to Him with my heart given to be fully His. There's no better love than the love of God.

Pacesetter...Moi?

2011-04-28T06:23:00.000-10:00

Had a beautiful run this morning. The rain had just passed through and the air was clean and fresh. With Rachael's driver's ed. class forcing me to get up and out three mornings a week, my road running has improved.

Since I posted about finding that pacesetter, I keep coming back to that image. While I run, even though there is no one a head of me, I can imagine those feet and see the pace. I don't have to have a physical pacesetter, in my mind's eye, I can see them. It has improved my time. I don't start out too fast and use up all my energy. It helps me run more and walk less.

I passed a man on the street today. He looked like the "old coach" type of guy. He actually commented as I went by him, "Nice pace, real comfortable." I thought, "Yes, it is comfortable. I could run a long time at this pace..."

A little further on, I passed a woman running just a bit slower than I was. (yes, I can actually pass people...) I began to wonder if I might be a pacesetter for her. Not that I'm such a super-star runner. But I know how much I was helped by a passing runner.

It got me thinking. Isn't that how our journey with Christ is supposed to be. We find a pacesetter for us, Jesus and others, and we also become a pacesetter. Paul repeatedly talks about running the race in his letters to the churches. He set an example for us to pursue Christ at all costs. Paul new that he hadn't "arrived" to perfection, but that didn't stop him from urging them (and us) to imitate him.

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead...

Philippians 3:13 NIV

...For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you.

So I urge you to imitate me.

I Corinthians 1:15-16 NLT

Before my come-back to road running, I was content to run on my treadmill. It was enough to keep me going. I could mark off a few miles a week and not feel too guilty. How many years of my Christian life have I been content to run my own private race? It's enough for me to get by, but that's not what Jesus commanded as He left this planet. He said, "Go and make disciples of all nations..." If I'm not running my race as a pacesetter, who will come after me? How will I obey this command? I'm coming to the strong conviction that this journey is not to be lived in isolation. There is no "plan B" for reaching the world. I am a part of it and I have a role to play.

As I was coming back to my starting point, I passed the same lady again. This time as I passed her, she was walking. I'll never know if I was a pacesetter for her, but when I was finally at my car, I saw her a third time. But this time she continued past me - running.

Do you have someone who can set the pace for you? Are you setting the pace for someone else. The truth is, people are watching us. What kind of pace will we set?

The Offenses of Jesus: The Faith of a Gentile Woman

2011-04-27T06:29:00.000-10:00

Usually, the offenses of Jesus make me cringe. This is one that inspires me. It is found in Matthew 15:21-28. Jesus leaves the offended Pharisees and travels to the north, to the region on Tyre and Sidon. A gentile woman comes to Jesus, pleading for Him to deliver her daughter who was possessed by a demon.

Don't you hate it when you are talking to someone and they ignore you? That's what Jesus did. (Offense #1) He didn't say a word - no reply to her pleading. Evidently that didn't put her off. She keeps begging. So much so that the disciples ask Jesus to send her away, "She is bother us with all her begging." So Jesus speaks to her. "I was sent only to help God's lost sheep, the people of Israel." (Offense #2) She is not deterred. Her response? She came and worshiped Him, and pleaded again, "Lord, help me!"

Jesus comes back with this, "It isn't right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs." (Offense #3) Ouch! Basically, Jesus is calling this woman a dog, unworthy of His attention. But this woman is amazing. Her love for her daughter and her belief that Jesus is the answer gives her the chutzpah to push on. She ignores His insult and replies, "That's true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their master's table." Wow. Such boldness. She passes the test. Remember, Jesus only offends the mind to reveal the heart. Her heart for her daughter and her faith in Jesus is revealed ~ and impresses Jesus. Now Jesus can drop the offenses. His tone changes completely. "Dear woman," Jesus says to her, "your faith is great. Your request is granted." Finally, the intended result. His offense of the woman revealed a heart of faith. Her daughter was instantly healed. If there was any doubt that our persistence and faith can move the heart of God, here it is. Jesus stated that His purpose was to bring salvation to the Jews. But her bold faith pleased Jesus so much, He extended His grace to her, even before the dispensation to any other Gentile.

And it is impossible to please God without faith.

Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists

and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.

Hebrews 11:6 NLT

In our day, the salvation and grace of Jesus is fully available to everyone. But do I persist in prayer, using bold faith to lay hold of what I need from Jesus? Does my faith please God, enough to move Him? Do I believe it can?

Silence

2011-04-25T18:58:00.000-10:00

On Good Friday, I tried something I had been wanting to do for some time. Spend a day in silence. I always wondered how I could pull it off. I knew I couldn't take off to a convent.... How would this work with a family and a schedule to keep? Stepping out of my usual perfectionist trap (if I can't do it exactly how I want, I wont do it) I decided to go for it and see what happened. I couldn't keep my outer world silent, but was determined to be personally silent in the midst of it. Here are some of my observations.

I woke up early and went down to the dock to clean up our boat. It was a beautiful day, and I was enjoying the silence immensely, that is until I started talking to myself. Oops! Didn't realize how much I do that. Had to turn it off.

Back at home, it was a real adjustment for my kids. They are used to me barking orders and keeping the peace between them. So, I found that without that, things where decidedly more peaceful. Why argue if Mom isn't going to step in. Not worth it. There were a few times that I had to speak to the kids. Andrew, not one for change, needed me to assure him that I was just fine, not mad, and this was only temporary. It was really kind of fun. I took them all to town for Rachael's dentist appointment, then to pick up ballet leotards. After that they didn't know where I was taking them. They kept asking where we were going. Of course, I didn't answer, so they were pleasantly surprised with a south shore drive and a lunch stop at our favorite 50's-style diner for burgers. (I was fasting words, not food!)

After our outing, we were back at home for the afternoon. With the big Easter weekend ahead of me, I started in on preparations. It was nice to be busy with my hands, since my mouth was idle. I got a lot of cleaning done. It made me think of Brother Lawrence and his "Practicing the Presence of Jesus." I was being active on the outside, but the silence brought an inward rest that refreshed my soul.

Why silence on Good Friday? It was a day of noise and confusion. The false witnesses were not silent, "..he said he'd rebuild the temple in three days." The crowd was not silent, "Crucify him!" The mocking soldiers were not silent, "Hail, king of the Jews." The thieves that were crucified beside Him where not silent, "You're the Messiah are you? Prove it by saving yourself, and us too while you're at it." The curious on-lookers to His death were not silent, "..come down from that cross." Even the executioners argued for Jesus' robe.

But with all the noise of Good Friday, there was silence too. The silence of his disciples. They weren't around to stand up for Him. Jesus' closest friends ran away. There was the silence of Jesus before Pilate. So many things He could have said, but didn't. He humbled Himself, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7, "...And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth." But the most dramatic silence of that day was the silence of the Father. God himself had to turn away from His beloved Son. Silent. Unlike Abraham and Isaac, there was no other sacrifice waiting in the bush. No voice came from heaven staying the death of the Only Son. Lastly, the tomb was silent, deathly silent for three long days.

It was good to be silent last Friday. I learned the value of my words. It was actually hard to get started again. I found myself choosing my words more carefully. I actually was more conscience of giving a "good word" to those around me. That's something I've been working on for a long time. Who knew that it would take silence to give me a better perspective on words of encouragement. Sound's like God to me...

Even today, Monday, I find myself less talkative than last week. I'm praying that the trend holds. I've been careless with my words of late. The impatient words that come out of my mouth really sting my ears. I may need a few more doses of silence to ride me of that. I'm open as the Lord directs.

Have you ever tried silence? I'd love to hear your insights.

The Offenses of Jesus: Honor God with your heart, not just your lipsl

2011-04-18T19:37:00.000-10:00

Jesus, on occasion, was intentionally offensive. Don't believe me? You can see my introduction here.

The first offense of Jesus I want to explore comes in Matthew 15:1-20. Jesus and the disciples are near the Sea of Galilee in the city of Gennesaret. The Pharisees come all the way from Jerusalem to see Jesus. Why the long journey to talk to Jesus? What urgent business do they have that must be dealt with now? They want to confront Jesus about his disciples' neglect of Jewish tradition. They are appalled that Jesus would allow such a breech in religious etiquette. "Why do your disciples disobey our age-old tradition? For they ignore our tradition of ceremonial hand washing before they eat." Jesus has been healing the sick, driving out demons, and has fed a multitude with five loaves of bread and two fish, and they come all this way to discuss the a neglected tradition! Jesus knows their hearts and immediately gets to the core of the matter. He gives them a question in return. He asks them why their traditions violate the direct commandments of God. The Pharisees had created a "loop hole" in the law that got them out of honoring and financially providing for their parents under the guise of giving to God. Jesus was not fooled and could see right through their hypocrisy. He tells them so by quoting from the prophet Isaiah (29:13), "These people honor me with their lips but their hearts are far from me." The crowd is still watching and listening, so Jesus calls to them and says, "Listen, and try to understand. It's not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth." It's a great teaching moment, and Jesus makes His point.

The disciples come to Jesus. They need to inform Jesus that He has just stepped on some big toes. "Do you realize you offended the Pharisees by what you just said?" ~ Uh, Jesus, we're just trying to help you out...

Jesus knows exactly what He's doing. "Ignore them... they are blind guides." The point of the law is to point us to God. Man's traditions had come before the heart or spirit of the law. Jesus came to cut through the traditions of man and reacquaint the people with God's heart for them.

Then Peter, always to be counted on to ask the questions that everyone else is just thinking, asks, "Explain to us the parable that says people aren't defiled by what they eat." (He really should have written this down ~ God had to remind him with a vision....see Acts 10.) His answer kind of catches me off guard. He says, "Don't you understand yet?"....uh, no.... "Anything you eat passes through the stomach and into the sewer. But the words you speak come from the heart - that's what defiles you..... Eating with unwashed hands will never defile you." ...Okay, now I get it! Thanks, Lord.

The Pharisees must have been really miffed. To come all this way, just be leave offended.

So what do I glean from this lesson? Being on this side of the resurrection, I don't follow any rituals of hand washing or food restrictions. But it is easy to get caught up in the outward trappings of religion. Am I miffed if we don't sing the right number of choruses on Sunday morning? What about hymns? Heaven forbid that someone should sit in MY place in church (third row, far right) or if that homeless man wanders in to the service in front of the visitors. How do I react when someone new to the church does something (anything) other than what we've done for (insert number) years? Am I offended and self-righteous? Or do I look at the heart of the matter - my heart.

When the prophet Samuel anointed young David to be the next king of Israel, Samuel looked at Eliab, Jesse's oldest son. He said, "Surely this is the Lord's anointed!"

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

I Samuel 16:7 NLT

There are so many times when I think I know what is right in a religious sense. But God's perspective is always better than mine. My prayer is that when I find myself offended, that I will stop and look inside. What is God's heart on this matter? Has my sense of tradition been challenged or is it one of God's commands?

Let me end with this:

Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.

For as members of one body you are called to live in peace.

And always be thankful.

Colossians 3:13-15 NLT

I have a feeling I'll be returning to these verses. Grace be with you!

I needed a pacesetter

2011-04-12T16:23:00.000-10:00

This morning I took a run along a beautiful beach-side road. It was a gorgeous morning. The sun was shining, a gentle breeze was blowing, and I was so glad to be outside. I love to run while listening to my ipod. Music really helps me keep my mind off the pain... Unfortunately, I didn't have it today. I found myself distracted by the sound of my own feet. (I kept looking behind me to see who was following me - blond moments...) I didn't have the music to make the miles go by a bit faster. I found myself reaching the end of my energy before the end of my route back to the car. I kept stopping to walk. I had just reached my turn-around point when another runner glided by me. She was about my age, very tall and slender, and was keeping a steady, manageable pace. I decided to match her, step by step, to see if I could keep up. I glued my eyes to her feet and fell in about 50 feet behind her. Wow! What a difference it made. The pace was just perfect for me. The ground that had taken me over 5 minutes to cover only took me 4 when I kept in step with her. Then I felt the nudge of the Holy Spirit speaking to me. "That's how I want you to be with Me." He longs to set the pace if I'll just fall in step behind Him.

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion?

Come to me.

Get away with me and you'll recover your life.

I'll show you how to take a real rest.

Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it.

Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.

I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you.

Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

- Jesus, Mt. 11:28-29, The Message

Yes, Lord, I hear. Thanks for reminding me.

The Offenses of Jesus: An Introduction

2011-04-11T18:12:00.000-10:00

As I begin this study, I want to talk about the premise. At first glance, the "offenses of Jesus" sounds like something totally against everything I know about my beloved Savior. How can anything Jesus does be offensive? He is love. He is compassion personified. He champions the down-trodden, the lonely, the forgotten, the untouchable, and the outcast. He makes friends with sinners. He calls the common man to follow Him. Offensive? That just can't be. But when I take a closer look at the gospels, I see that Jesus was indeed offensive to those who thought they knew how to be religious. Jesus wasn't just being rude, not at all. He used offensive language and actions to catch the religious elite off guard. Bill Johnson puts it best when he says, "Jesus offended the mind to reveal the heart." That's the idea I want to explore in this study.

Of the many people that Jesus encountered, there were two main groups: the common people and the religious leaders. Jesus dealt with the common man or woman with unrestrained love and care. He spoke to them in parables. He healed and delivered them. He fed them. He blessed their children. He raised their dead. So much of what we know and love of Jesus is learned by watching how He moved among the people. But then there was that other group of people. They were the Pharisees and other leaders of religious law that were always trying to trap and eventually kill Jesus. They were not moved by Jesus's compassion. But Jesus loved them, too. (He's not willing that any should parish.) With all wisdom, motivated by love, Jesus crafted His words and actions in order to rock their religious boat and in doing so, revealed the deeper status of their heart.

In the 28 chapters of the gospel of Matthew, I have come up with 15 instances where Jesus used offensive words and actions, and this is by no means exhaustive. It seems that Jesus thought this a worthy method of reaching the lost. Was it effective? Sometimes yes, and sometimes no. In all cases, the hearer's heart was revealed. How they responded was up to them. Some believed, some went away sad, and some became murderous.

So why study the offenses of Jesus? I must confess that in the stories of Jesus and His encounters with the Pharisees, I often see my own sin in their example. I grew up in the church. I know how to "do" church with my eyes shut. And that is a problem. It's all too easy for me to be legalistic. I need my heart to be revealed. I need to be thrown off guard once in a while. I don't want to miss the true message of Jesus because I think I know better.

So join me if you will, as I journey down the road with Jesus. Let's see where we end up. I want to have a heart like His.

Search me, O God, and know my heart;

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

Point out anything in me that offends you,

and lead me along the path

of everlasting life.

Psalm 139:23-24 NLT (Emphasis mine.)

The picture of Jesus (at top) hung in my room as a child. I'm sure He looks just like this!

Compassion killed my joy...

2011-04-07T12:34:00.000-10:00

I woke up last night to thunder. It troubled me. I used to love severe weather. Call me crazy, but living in such a beautiful place where the weather changes very little, I would secretly wish for thunder and lightening, an extra "cold" night (low 60's), or torrential rain. But compassion changed all that. I'm finding that my joy at the severe weather forecast is severely hampered by the thought of those who must be outside in it. I'm talking about those with no choice and nowhere else to go. I can no longer sit back and fully revel in the bad weather.

There was a time when the suffering of others didn't cross my mind. Don't get me wrong, there are many days when it still doesn't. I'm just beginning to have my eyes open to the poor around me. Whenever I've taken those "Spiritual Gifts" tests, compassion was always dead last on my list of strengths. That was an easy excuse for not getting out of my comfort zone to help others... sad really. Actually - wrong. But Jesus, in His compassion for me, is not content to let me get away with that. He has opened my eyes and now there is no going back. There is no way to just forget. What a gift.

Jesus was no stranger to the poor. While on earth He said,

“Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests,

but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head.”

(Matt 8:20 and Luke 9:38)

This life is not about my comfort. It's about giving glory to God and spreading His love. So the question is, what do I do now that I see? Well, that's between Jesus and I. Everyone is different and called to respond in very personal ways. But one thing is for sure, seeing is just the first step. Seeing makes me accountable. Seeing is the ball being tossed into my court.

In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the parable of the sheep and the goats. The day of reckoning has come and the King is separating those with compassion and those without. It's a harsh tale with a only one test: did you or did you not meet the physical needs of those who needed it. It's either thumbs up or thumbs down. No room for discussion, "I didn't score well in compassion..." Some tried the old, "I never saw you..." excuse. The King is not moved. (This parable scares the spit out of me.)

There is only one way to bring back the joy of severe weather.... Doing for the "least of these" brothers and sisters of mine.

The view out my front door this morning, after the thunderstorm cleared.

Picture of Procrastination

2011-04-06T12:49:00.000-10:00

This is what happens when I put off filing my music for four months...

Just keeping it real! *:)

Great weekend ~ and new inspiration!

2011-04-04T18:21:00.003-10:00

Our family had a fun weekend. I hope you did too! Rachael, my second-born, had her birthday so we celebrated with a last minute surprise birthday party. Friday night, a few of her friends came over for pizza, Apples to Apples, and the new Disney movie Tangled. She was so surprised! Very fun.

On Saturday, we headed up to the North Shore. We had a new friend, Mary, along. It is so much fun to show off our island to first-timers. We brought the surf boards and everyone (except me) hit the waves! I've never learned, and I didn't want to start with North Shore waves. I will learn, someday...

On Sunday, we had a really nice service at church. It's so nice to have new faces. Then, Mark and I led a short hike to a great watering hole. We had about thirty people show up! It was fun. This just proves that "If you plan it, they will come!" One of the goals that Mark and I have is to intentionally build community right where we are, starting first with our faith family, and then branching out to those in our geographic community. This was our first attempt and we were very pleased with the turnout.

So that's a recap of the weekend. The new inspiration part came today while talking with my first-born, Steph. She is the one who continues to encourage (read: nags) me to write - especially this blog. She reminded me of a study that I have been saying I want to do and write about. So, I have committed to start.

The idea came from hearing Bill Johnson, senior pastor of Bethel Church in Redding, California speak. (This is Steph's pastor.) He mentioned something he called the offenses of Jesus. He points out the method Jesus used so many times. When dealing with people, Jesus often "offended" their minds by his words to reveal what was in their heart. That phrase stuck with me, and the more I read the gospels, the more I see it. It is a topic that is begging to be explored.

So that is my plan. I will begin my search of the gospels for the offenses of Jesus, and share what I find here. Thanks for your grace...

"I can do it all by myself... "

2011-03-29T17:57:00.001-10:00

That's the refrain of every toddler, "I can do it myself!" Usually they can, but sometimes it makes a terrible mess in the process. I was always the kind of mom who found a way to "help" my kids do it so the mess would be less. (Sorry, kids!) Not great for building self-reliance.

This is one aspect of parenting that is totally opposite from the kind of parent God is to me. I come to Him, relying on my own strength. But God doesn't want me to be self-reliant. He wants me to be totally dependent on Him. My maturity in Christ is measured by how dependent I can be. So unnatural! I should learn from my former toddlers and let Him do it! I'd have fewer messes in my life.

There is a quote that is posted on my refrigerator right now, next to our family calendar. It's one by A.W. Tozer. It reads, "God is looking for people through whom He can do the impossible. What a pity when we plan only the things we can do by ourselves."

I've always considered myself a planner. Control-freak security... But what I'm noticing lately is, even though I want to do the will of God, I only attempt the things I think I will be successful at. I've created a very safe environment for myself. Well, I'm kind of sick of it. Time to attempt things that only God can accomplish through me. Sounds great, but how to start. It's as unnatural as stepping off a cliff...

James 2:21-24 says,

Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete. And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God. So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.

If I truly want to live the radical life of faith, my actions better be ones that take real faith, not self-reliance.

Lord, I don't just want to do the things I can do by myself.

I want You to do the impossible through me. Amen!

'Now why don't he write?"

2011-03-28T18:22:00.000-10:00

That's one of my favorite lines from the movie, Dances With Wolves. They are looking down at a pile of bones with an arrow stock in them. Most likely a pioneer who got on the wrong side of an Indian. Well, you may have been wondering about me. No, I haven't succumbed to natives, just the business of life. I've had a few (many) months off. Life has gone on in so many unexpected directions, it's hard to know where to start. I think that what's kept me away for so long...

As Maria Von Trapp said, "Let's start at the very beginning... a very good place to start."

About a month after my last post, July 2010, we seriously had to decide what our oldest daughter was going to do in the fall. She had just graduated from our home school, and was planning on working for a year to save up enough money to go to ministry school in California. She was not looking forward to that. Although she had a good job at our local pet store, it wasn't where her heart was anymore. Well, one thing followed another and the Lord showed us that Steph was not to wait a year. He had everything worked out for her to go in the fall. She realized that she had most of the money saved for the tuition. Now, where would the money come from for her living expenses? I decided to call my step mom and tell her that Steph would be going to California for school. We didn't know how, but I had such a burning in my heart, I knew it was the right thing. She told me that she had just picked up the phone to call me. She and my father had started a college fund for Steph when she was born. (which I had completely forgotten about...) Although they hadn't been able to contribute to it in quite awhile, it had matured and she could access it now that she was 18. What an answer to prayer! It was just the confirmation we needed. So Steph was off. The only thing that the Lord hadn't prepared was my heart. Maybe that was my job to be doing all along. I had greatly neglected that part. Although I knew it was right and was working to make it happen, my heart was grieved at losing my daughter sooner than I had expected. God blew my mind by providing me with the money to go with Steph and help her get set up in her dorm. So here we are, seven months later, and I know without a doubt that Steph is where she is supposed to be. I miss her like crazy, but God is good and there is grace that covers me.

God also blessed me with the opportunity to go visit my sisters on the mainland for my nieces' wedding. I hadn't seen my sisters in over 5 years, and I had never seen where my sisters live. They had always come home to Hawaii. Eleven days away from the family was hard, but I had a wonderful time reconnecting with family, and celebrating Alicia and Jeff's new life together.

Despite these mainland trips and family changes, our school year began as usual. Now I'm just schooling 3 kids; Rachael is a junior, Rebecca is a freshman, and Andrew is somewhere between 5th and 6th grade.

I still haven't found a job outside my home. Even though I continue to send resumes for jobs I'm well qualified for, the doors just haven't been opened. Mark continues to work hard in the mortgage business, but as everywhere these days, business is extremely slow. But God is faithful, as He promised He would be.

Another significant development over the last seven months is the beginning of a dream that the Lord has placed in our hearts. It's a dream to start an intentional community house for ministry. Believing that there is more to be done in the lives of those around us, we want to move into a bigger house where we can join with a few others. Our primary goal will be to spread the love of Jesus to those in need around us. We're still in the formation stages, but know that this is where God is leading. Reading books such as Crazy Love by Francis Chan, and Radical by David Platt, have only solidified our resolve to live a more "radical" Christian life. Now we're just looking for more people to join with us.

That's the major happenings in a nutshell. I suppose more things may come up as I move forward. I'll fill in the details as I go.

All in all, 2010 was a year that proved out the name that God gave me for it: Faithful. God has shown and continues to show Himself faithful to me. He also asked me to be faithful. This doesn't end just because the year did. It is an ever present condition that I long for. When 2011 rolled around, I again asked the Lord to name the year for me. The word I got was Restore. Here is a scripture I'm hiding in my heart about it.

The Lord will guide you continually,

giving you water when you are dry

and restoring your strength.

You will be like a well-watered garden,

like an ever-flowing spring.

Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities.

Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls

and a restorer of homes.

Isaiah 58:11-12 (NLT)

I have plans to update this site and be a lot more regular in posting. Your grace is always appreciated!
No matter what life may bring, as always, I'll be here, just enjoying the view.

Tuesday...I'm back!

2010-06-22T17:28:00.001-10:00

Aloha everyone! You may have thought I fell off the end of the earth... But no, I'm just trying to adjust to this new "schedule-free" summer. Our family has been having a great time together. I'll share some of our recent doings.

To end our school year, we went camping at Kualoa Beach Park. It was a great long weekend with our church family. Camping on the beach is so fun. The kids have so much to keep them busy. At this particular camp site, there is an island off-shore that was just close enough to kayak to. Rebecca also made it out there on her surf board. We swam and collected shells. Andrew went crab hunting after dark. And of course, Mark had to build his famous campfire. S'mores all around. Great fun.

Koolau Mountains on one side...

Kaneohe Bay on the other.

Empty beach was perfect for morning quiet time. God's creation takes my breath away!

"Chinaman's Hat" where the kids played most of the day. When Mark and I were in high school, we climbed to the top...I haven't been up there since.

Relaxing under the common tent.

Andrew and his catch of sand crabs...they were released back to their homes shortly after this was taken.

On Father's Day, we made another trip up to Waimea Bay. It seems to be our go-to beach for barbecues. Can you blame us?

(Not our boat... Maybe some day we can bring Pakele Nui up the coast.)

More burritos on the beach. Our crowd keeps growing. This time we were joined by friends Jess, BJ, Makana, Victoria, and Jake. The word's out! But the more the merrier. I love having the kids' friends along. And feeding the crowd is fun, too. Mark and I are getting quite a system.

I'm still looking for work. I thought I had a position, but it fell through. It's really stretching my patience. I'm not sure what the Lord wants me to learn from this. I keep returning to my theme for this year, Faithful. God is a faithful God. And I will continue to be faithful in trusting Him to see us through.

In the meantime, I'm enjoying the time off of school. These days are passing quickly. Reading is a treat and my tan is finally getting the attention it needs. ;) Already I'm feeling the itch to get my curriculum planning started for next year. Only 7 weeks until we start again. Every year I promise not to put it off. Perhaps you will keep me accountable to that goal...

Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate you!

Family Photos Friday

2010-05-28T14:02:00.001-10:00

We finally had the camera along on the last two family outings. I'll share some pictures with you.

We headed to the north shore again last Sunday.

This handsome fellow was strolling around the road-side shops.

In the 40 years that I have lived on this island, I had never stopped by this cute shop.

Curiosity got the better of us, and we went in.

There were antique collections of every kind cramming the counters.

There was everything from bottles to beads, Coke novelties to license plates,

glass fishing floats to tourist trinkets.

Even this guy....

In your hometown, there is always something new to discover.

Now I know where to go if I need a glass ball or an Obama surfer...

We finally arrived at Waimea Bay at about 4:30 in the afternoon. Most folks were packing up. We were just arriving for dinner and a dip. Clouds were rolling in, but we didn't mind.

Steph calls this a red-neck moment.

The rain tried to scare us away, but we stuck it out and had a great time.

Don't let the frown fool you, I had a great time. I think I was realizing at that moment, that I have become my mother-in-law. She has always been the one to cook on the beach. But she never brought the usual hot dogs/hamburgers type food. Always the unusual - great tasting stuff. Here I am, in all my glory, grilling beef and chicken, re-fried beans, and serving them on homemade tortillas. Kinda weird....

in a good way.

Steph, her majesty...with her fajita in one hand, and marshmallow stick in the other...

Rebecca, enjoying hot food on a cool day!

Andrew is our official marshmallow roaster.

Benefits of sticking around, even with the rain.

We stopped on the way home to watch the sun disappear into the ocean.

The end of another relaxing Lord's Day.

This morning, we got up early to beat the crowd and headed out to the sandbar on Kaneohe Bay. The weather was perfect!

Mark and Rebecca on Pakele Nui and Steph, Andrew and new friend, BJ in the water.

Andrew getting ready to take a swing on the halyard.

My turn.

That snorkel (far left corner) got left behind today....oops!

Mark, taking us back...

Hope you have a wonderful holiday weekend. Summer is officialy here! I, for one, and ready for a new season!

Isaiah 42:1-12

The Servant of the Lord

"Here is my servant, whom I uphold,

my chosen one in whom I delight;

I will put my Spirit on him

and he will bring justice to the nations.

He will not shout or cry out,

or raise his voice in the streets.

A bruised reed he will not break,

and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.

In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;

he will not falter or be discouraged

till he establishes justice on earth.

In his law the islands will put their hope."

This is what God the LORD says—

he who created the heavens and stretched them out,

who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it,

who gives breath to its people,

and life to those who walk on it:

"I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness;

I will take hold of your hand.

I will keep you and will make you

to be a covenant for the people

and a light for the Gentiles,

to open eyes that are blind,

to free captives from prison

and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.

"I am the LORD; that is my name!

I will not give my glory to another

or my praise to idols.

See, the former things have taken place,

and new things I declare;

before they spring into being

I announce them to you."

Song of Praise to the Lord

Sing to the LORD a new song,

his praise from the ends of the earth,

you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it,

you islands, and all who live in them.

Let the desert and its towns raise their voices;

let the settlements where Kedar lives rejoice.

Let the people of Sela sing for joy;

let them shout from the mountaintops.

Let them give glory to the LORD

and proclaim his praise in the islands.

Multitude Monday

2010-05-24T21:51:00.000-10:00

I celebrated a birthday this week. I usually approach them with mixed emotions. On one hand, I'm grateful that I made it another year...but, the numbers are starting to scare me.

I found a song that sums up my emotions lately. I sang it for church a couple of weeks ago.

"Hallelujah"

Who can hold the stars

And my weary heart?

Who can see everything?

I've fallen so hard

Sometimes I feel so far

But not beyond your reach

I could climb a mountain

Swim the ocean

Or do anything

But it's when you hold me

That I start unfolding

And all I can say is

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Whatever's in front of me

Help me to sing hallelujah

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Whatever's in front of me

I'll choose to sing hallelujah

The same sun that

Rises over castles

And welcomes the day

Spills over buildings

Into the streets

Where orphans play

And only you can see the good

In broken things

You took my heart of stone

And you made it home

And set this prisoner free

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Whatever's in front of me

Help me to sing hallelujah

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Whatever's in front of me

I'll choose to sing hallelujah

1000 Gifts list: (262-268)

birthday breakfast in bed

gift certificate for a massage from my kids

cashing the certificate in on my birthday

my husband's silly sense of humor in cards

$10 jeans that FIT

friends that care

another family day at Waimea Bay

counting the days til summer is here

See other's gifts list here:

Multitude Monday?

2010-05-18T09:40:00.003-10:00

(I know it's Tuesday...I started this yesterday, but didn't get it published. Sorry...)

It was an action-pack weekend. Just what I needed to de-stress from an emotional week. This job hunting thing is really an emotional roller coaster. I find a job to apply for that seems like it would work for me and the family, send in my resume, wait, wait, wait. If I get a call for an interview, I get all excited, show up, give my best (try to explain who I am in 10 minutes...), then more waiting. So far, nothing has come of the process. Nothing outward anyway.

So to get away, the family packed up and set out for Waimea Bay on Sunday afternoon. Well, half the family. We let a couple of kids stay with their friends...remember, I'm de-stressing. (It was not the day to force a family outing.) The water could not have been more beautiful. This is a beach that's known for it's monster waves during the winter. The Eddy Aikau surf meet wont even be held unless the waves are 40'. But in the summer, the bay is calm as a lake. The water was so clear, you could see your toes and the sandy bottom below. Incredible. This beach is also known for it's dangerous undertow. When I was a little girl, about 5 years old, my dad had to come rescue me. The tow started taking me out, and I couldn't get back in. Ever since, I've had a profound respect for the ocean. I'm not a huge fan of big waves. So this Sunday, the water was so inviting, I stayed in for 30 minutes. Not too cold, not too windy. Just right.

After swimming we fired up the little beach grill and made fish tacos. The fish was shark...very tasty! Roll it into a home-made flour tortilla, add some beans, cheese, tomato, sprouts and salsa. A great meal to watch the sunset. Such a gift. I was revived and at peace.

1000 Gifts (252 - 261)

sales on Craigslist

God's living Word

waking with a song in my heart

a husband that doesn't mind doing the dishes

the trampoline that brings their play together and bridges the age gap

clear water of Waimea Bay

parking place in an impossible lot

fish tacos, cooked on the beach

silence of sunset, all watching, followed by cheers as it melts away

crescent moon that smiles at me as it follows me home

Multitude Monday

2010-05-10T21:50:00.000-10:00

See the heart in the sky?

It was a busy, but fun weekend. Mother's Day was celebrated with the grandmothers and family over at our house. Home-made pizza, bottled root beer and fresh strawberries with chocolate, brown sugar and sour cream for dipping. Yum.

Still waiting on interview results....got one "no" for sure, but am waiting on two more answers. What a process. On the way to my interview last Thursday, I really started doubting myself. It all started when in dug to the bottom of my purse for lipstick. I never wear it, but it's in my purse. I guess it's a mom thing. Anyway, when I looked into the rear-view mirror to put it on (my mother never needed a mirror) all I could see were the flaws in my face. The self-talk went something like this, "Look at those wrinkles, you're way too old for this...", "Your teeth are so yellow. You shouldn't even open your mouth..." It was relentless. The nasty voice in my head was going full force. Thankfully, I had a few minutes to spare so I pulled over and took a few deep breaths. Then I prayed. I don't remember exactly what I said, but I know that the nasty voice had to go. My Redeemer was with me. He who made me, cares for me and loves me gave me the courage I needed. I walked into that interview with my head held high - smiling.

Whom have I in heaven but you?

And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

My flesh and my heart may fail,

but God is the strength of my heart

and my portion forever.

Psalm 73: 25-26

This then is how we know that we belong to the truth,

and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence

whenever our hearts condemn us.

For God is greater than our hearts,

and he knows everything.

1 John 3:19-20

I am so grateful that I have a place to run when my heart condemns me. God is so much greater than my heart. It is so easily swayed and deceived. He knows how to set my heart at rest. All have have to do is run to His presence.

1000 Gifts: (234 - 251)

prayer in the night for a sleepless son

hearts reconciled

new job prospects

encouraging words from a friend

divine appointments

going to the theater with the kids

peeling potatoes for mission meal

classic Audrey Hepburn movie for the family

injured bird recovering in a box

enough for today

great interview

crazy dream that makes you laugh when you wake

mother's and daughter's lunch

multi-generation hula

hand-made card and gifts from loving kids

loving memory of a mom in heaven

two more loving on-earth mothers

Join the Gratitude Community here:

Photo by Rachael James

Certainly

2010-05-05T13:37:00.002-10:00

cer·tain·ly /ˈsɜrtnli/
–adverb

1.with certainty; without doubt; assuredly: I'll certainly be there.

2.yes, of course: Certainly, take the keys.

3.surely; to be sure: He certainly is successful.

This word jumped off the page of my Bible this morning. Certainly. I don't often use the word. It seems there are not too many things that I've been certain of lately, at least not in the dictionary definition of the word. I might say, "I certainly hope it doesn't rain on Saturday." or "You certainly may not!" when one of my kids asks to have 5 cookies before dinner... But listen to the word as Jesus used it:

“And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?" Matt. 6:28-30

He will without doubt care for you.

He will, yes, of course, care for you.

He will surely care for you.

Why do I have so little faith?

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for

and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

LORD, help me have a "certainly" kind of faith today. Amen.

Multitude Monday

2010-05-03T18:54:00.000-10:00

Well, I didn't get the job that I interviewed for. As my Grandma Gladys would say when she beat you at cards, "Sorry... goody." I can't hide the fact that I really don't want to work outside my home. I am going through the motions to be obedient, day by day, one step at a time.

Living in today is the only thing that keeps the stress of life from taking over. I must trust in the Lord today. I have what I need today. (Psalm 23:1, The Lord is my Shepherd, I have all I need." NLT) Looking to tomorrow only makes me freeze up in fear.

Since today is Monday, I wanted to add to my 1000 Gifts list. I've been keeping it going in my journal even though I haven't posted it lately. I've also started my kids on their own journals. It is such a great way to keep my eyes on what the Lord is blessing me with every day and it's wonderful to pass that habit on to my kids.

There are so many things that God gifts me with that if I wasn't looking for them, I would miss them. It's kind of like spring here in Hawaii. We don't have the dramatic change from winter to spring that most of the world has. Here, the plants and flowers are always around. If I don't deliberately look for spring, I could miss it. Some of the subtle ways that spring arrives are the way we don't need to sleep with the extra quilt on the bed, or noticing that the wind off the ocean is warmer now. I don't want to take for granted the new life that is all around me. And I especially don't want to take God's blessings for granted. Recording my 1000 Gifts has greatly helped me stop and say thanks to the Giver of all good things.

(189-233)

waking to find Andrew reading in bed

an almost forgotten rose, blooming in the garden

a peaceful school day

a clean kitchen sink

when my husband comes to my rescue

a bush full of hibiscus

new mercy today

dreams that speak of God's input into my life

chocolate chip pancakes

using new leadership skills

friends who keep me accountable

kids learning to count the gifts

morning rain that refreshes the dry ground

beautiful bike ride with Mark

gracious worship team that rolls with my mistakes

yummy barbecue dinner

God's provision, again

special fellowship with SIL

learning to fight the fight of faith

feeling a part of a community of believers that's bigger than what I can see

alone time with Mark - to talk and be quiet together

the beauty of paradise right around us

a daughter who trusts us enough to confide

dancing for the Lord

heart to heart talks

full moon rising over Kailua

answered prayer for heart cleansing

grace that calms an anxious heart

smoothie for breakfast

time to be with the kids

morning at the Sandbar with the family

cool water dip that refreshes

awesome view of God's creation

afternoon with cool rain that's perfect for Sabbath rest

Be part of the Gratitude Community here:

Fatihful - God is true to His word.

2010-05-02T17:16:00.000-10:00

I wonder if this happens to other bloggers. You're going along just fine, posting at semi-regular intervals, then suddenly *wham* nothing... Well, it happened to me. I guess I got caught up in thinking that everything I write must be profound...(like anything is?) Anyway. That's my usual m.o. I try to jump in with both feet, always into the deep end. Then I wonder why there's all this water in my mouth... Gulp. I've forgotten that getting better at anything takes time.

So, here I go again. I'll try to remember the advice that I would give anyone else, "Just keep it simple."

Part of my challenge is that life is very stressful right now. Between raising these four, wonderful, sometimes exasperating kids, and being there for Mark, and trying to finish up our school year, and taking my online worship leader's class, and actually preparing to lead a meaningful worship time, and being as frugal as I can to make ends meet... I've also been trying to find a part-time job.

I haven't worked outside my home for over 18 years. I've had my own business, but always worked it from home. My kids don't know a mom who's ever been away on a daily basis. That has been an amazing blessing to me and I am so grateful. The time I've had with my kids has been one of the treasures of my life. Now, just contemplating the idea of leaving the house for 4 to 5 hours a day can make me start to hyperventilate. (No, really, I do!) I know, many of you do that and more already. I applaud you. But I'm scared spit-less. Now that I've actually taken the leap to start applying, the next excruciating step is waiting for a response. I had a good interview last Monday - a week ago - and now am waiting...waiting...waiting. I know that my time with my kids has become so important to me that I am in danger of making it an idol in my life. I feel like Abraham, who's taken Isaac up the mountain. I've agreed to take the trip but I'm desperately looking for an extra ram in the bushes...

My rock in the storm is always my relationship with Jesus and His Word. I've found myself clinging more closely to Him everyday. That's just the way He wants it. As each day dawns, new mercy is given and received. I know that I am in the palm if His hand. I shall not be moved.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God,

for my hope is in him.

He alone is my rock and my salvation,

my fortress where I will not be shaken.

My victory and honor come from God alone.

He is my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me.

O my people, trust in him at all times.

Pour out your heart to him,

for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:6-8

God told me that this year would be a year of "Faithful". He is true to His word. How do you know that God is faithful unless you need to trust Him in a new way. God, in His mercy, is taking me further on and further into my trust of Him. That's what I asked Him to do... Faithful. He is, may I be in return.

This song speaks to me right now. (Turn off the player at the top of this page first.)

Thanks for letting me be real... Even while I wait, I'm enjoying the view.

My daily question to God...

2010-04-23T07:24:00.000-10:00

"Where do I go from here...?"

The answer may change, but the promise remains.

The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." Exodus 33:14

Psalm 23

2010-04-21T15:13:00.000-10:00

I've been working on memorizing Psalm 23. Not the old, King James Version, but the New Living Translation. I wanted something that would not be mindlessly rambled, but that would take an engaged mind, and heart in the saying.

1 The Lord is my shepherd;

I have all that I need.

2 He lets me rest in green meadows;

he leads me beside peaceful streams.

3 He renews my strength.

He guides me along right paths,

bringing honor to his name.

4 Even when I walk

through the darkest valley,

I will not be afraid,

for you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff

protect and comfort me.

5 You prepare a feast for me

in the presence of my enemies.

You honor me by anointing my head with oil.

My cup overflows with blessings.

6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me

all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the Lord

forever.

As I daily work on my verses, I realize how many preconceived ideas I have about this familiar passage. It is often read at funerals... I had relegated it to a portion of scripture that was only for enduring the bad times. The "valley of the shadow" times of life. But the more I meditate on it, the more I'm convinced that this is a psalm for daily use, and is actually recommended for noon prayer when "praying the hours."

Daily the Lord is my shepherd. Daily He leads me in peace, by the power of His Spirit. He cares for me daily - during peaceful times and when I walk through the hard times. He wines and dines me in the face of my enemies. He lavishly pours out His Spirit on me, enabling me to bring Him honor. He daily pursues me with goodness and unfailing love. That's what it's like when you live in the house of the Lord ~ forever!

This simple, familiar psalm that I once pushed aside as being trite (Lord, forgive me) is fast becoming my daily bread. When I stop what I'm doing at noon to breathe its words, my perspective changes and peace washes over my soul. I am reminded that being in the flock of Jesus is all I need. He is the Good Shepherd, and being His sheep is bliss!

Read what others are saying about walking with the Shepherd here:

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An environment for life...

2010-04-13T23:52:00.000-10:00

It's finally spring. The April showers are falling and I hear that on the mainland, things are beginning to grow and bloom. Living in Hawaii all my life, it's hard for me to imagine a time of year where most everything dies off and has to start all over again. That just doesn't happen here.

Where I live, plant life is always growing full force. Yards must be mowed, weeds must be pulled, trees must be trimmed, and something is always blooming. The city doesn't have seasonal maintenance crews. They work year-round. I imagine they start at one end of the island, and by the time they reach the other end, it's time to start all over again. Hawaii is an environment of continual growth. I never have to wonder if it is the right time to plant something. I just plant it - and usually it grows. (If it doesn't, it's not the weather, its the gardener...) I guess that's just life in the tropics. We're close enough to the equator that we always have plenty of warm sunshine and lovely trade-wind showers. The perfect climate for life.

Do you see where I'm going with this? It got me thinking about these verses:

Oh, the joys of those who do not

follow the advice of the wicked,

or stand around with sinners,

or join in with mockers.

But they delight in the law of the Lord,

meditating on it day and night.

They are like trees planted along the riverbank,

bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither,

and they prosper in all they do.

Psalm 1:1-3 (NLT)

It's a challenge for me to think of making my life an environment where new life happens all the time, in every season. Just like in my natural world, I go through times of rain or times that are dry, but can something bloom even then? Even in the dry times, is there an area of my life that can produce fruit?

"Remain in me, and I will remain in you.

For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine,

and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches.

Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.

For apart from me you can do nothing." ~ Jesus

John 15:4-5 (NLT)

As a child of God, I have been made new. In my old nature, nothing would grow. All was dead. But now I am living in new life of the Spirit of God.

It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own.

Our qualification comes from God.

He has enabled us to be ministers of his new covenant.

This is a covenant not of written laws, but of the Spirit.

The old written covenant ends in death;

but under the new covenant,

the Spirit gives life.

2 Corinthians 3:5-6 (NLT)

The secret to having life and producing much fruit is to remain in the Vine. A branch that is connected to the vine cannot help but produce fruit. It is a by-product of being attached. Living life with Jesus is like living in the tropics - living things can't help but thrive there.

It may not always be spring, but in Hawaii, there is always something beautiful ready to harvest. I'm striving to do the same!

Aloha!

See other posts on Cultivating Life at:

Multitude Monday - Psalm 50

2010-04-12T11:21:00.003-10:00

It's another beautiful Monday morning. Even though life is stressful, I'm finding that keeping thankfulness before more keeps things in perspective.

As I write this, the kids are sitting quietly at their desks, working on their school work. The dog is sleeping under my desk. The bird is chirping away with the birds outside. And the spring sun is shining. Glorious day!

Psalm 50:14-15, 23 (NLT)

Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High. Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.

But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. If you keep to my path, I will reveal to you the salvation of God.

Here is this week's list of the 1000 Gifts: (177-189)

riding my bike with Mark in the park

music being made from the heart of my kids

the blooms of the flowers in my yard

HUGE batch of back-yard bananas, ready to eat

praying together

God's faithfulness in the little things, too

courage to play my guitar in worship

health insurance when we need it

long prayed for prodigal, back in fellowship

peace that endures through turbulent times

constant reminders of His care

Join the others of this Gratutude comminity here:

The Harvest Has Come

2010-04-09T11:02:00.004-10:00

Do you remember when I discovered the unexpected life in my yard?

Well, today, that same bunch of life is sitting on my table, ready to be made into banana bread.

The Harvest has come!

May the nations praise you, O God.

Yes, may all the nations praise you.

Then the earth will yield its harvests,

and God, our God, will richly bless us.

Yes, God will bless us,

and people all over the world will fear him.

Psalm 67:5-7 (NLT)

Always something to be grateful for...

2010-04-06T19:20:00.001-10:00

There are so many things going on in my life. I regret that writing has gone down on the priority list. Seeking a new rhythm and finding time to get it all done is not easy. I'm really not a natural writer. I didn't grow up with a diary under my pillow and all those college essays were like pulling teeth. So I guess that explains why I don't turn to writing when things get crazy. It's not yet a habit. Maybe it should be, I know it helps me to sort things out.

In all that life hands me, I still find many things to be grateful for. I pick up my list...even though it's not Monday. Yes, I fell off the gratitude wagon. But I'm jumping back on and taking you for a ride with me.

Here is my next installment of the 1000 Gifts list:

(161-176)

Good Friday prayer

God's word given through a friend

sin stains washed clean

my risen LORD

a full sanctuary for Easter Sunday

a break in the rain for the egg hunt

chocolate

cool evening rain that waters my plants

a table filled with family and friends for Easter dinner

waterfalls out my window

dear children that help me daily see His grace

that there is always enough

the comfort of shepherd pie

a new parakeet just for me

new strength and new direction for schooling

finding that the millionth kiss is sweeter than the first

2010-04-02T13:13:00.000-10:00

Reposted thoughts about the cross.

I heard the hymn, The Old Rugged Cross, the other day and it got me thinking. The lyric, "I will cling to the old rugged cross..." was stirring around in my head.

Take that line and mix it with Luke 9:23, "Then he [Jesus] said to the crowd, 'If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me.'"

I wonder if the cross we cling to should be the cross we choose to take up every day. Christ's cross was a once-and-for-all proposition. He said himself, "It is finished." But my daily dying to self, being that living sacrifice is all that I have to give. Is that what I will lay down and exchange someday for a crown?

It's just so simple...

2010-04-01T12:28:00.000-10:00

The message of Jesus is so simple. Let's not complicate it.

Determinted to Rest

2010-03-26T09:56:00.002-10:00

It's a quiet day at the house. As the last week of Lent approaches, I'm determined to rest...sounds odd, doesn't it? In all that I have left to do before we start school again, I'm faced with the choice of being frantic or resting in the Lord's presence. Not that I wont get things done, I'll just do them while in the Lord's company, being mindful of Him. That's the choice I want to make, no matter what the day holds.

Haleiwa sunset.

May the God of hope

fill you with all joy and peace

as you trust in him,

so that you may overflow with hope

by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13 NIV

Here's a song that's been speaking to me this week. (Don't forget to pause the player first.) Enjoy!

Yes, I'm still here...

2010-03-23T09:27:00.001-10:00

It's spring break at our house. That means my usual schedule is out the window! That's a good thing...except my blogging time has gone with it.

Last week was a great time with my oldest who was the only kid not at camp. This week, I'm looking forward to more time with the other kids. We've already been to the beach two days in a row. I'm still praying about how to re-vamp our school schedule so that everyone gets their stuff done, and we still have time for fun! I know, I know, school is supposed to be fun. But there is only so much you can do with algebra...

I've been reading a great book. It's called The God You Can Know, by Dan Dehaan. So many great truths in it. Here's a thought I'll share with you. It is so appropriate during the Lenten season.

Jesus did not come to make bad men good, but to make dead men live. The church should demand that men be alive in Christ, opposed to being simply good. What is a Christian? He is an ordinary person with an extraordinary love. A love that consistently "lays ourselves down" for the sake of seeing God exaluted. It is love that motivates us, that clings to nothing that God gives save Himself. So many today have a "handle" on the ministry when the ministry should have a handle on them.

Are you in Christ? Is there a definite divine motivation and confidence in your soul? Are you really in love with the Lord Himself? Can you honestly say that the experience you have had with Christ has made you alive and not just good? If you cannot, I would ask that God would break your heart even now - that, first, you would see your sin; that, second, you would see the righteousness and the blood of the Lamb that can cleanse it all; and that, third, you would cast your sin and self on the cross of Christ. Then your old nature will be curicified, and you will join those who have their confidence in Christ, not those who have only a knowledge of how to work for Him. (p. 141)

So many years, I have lived with knowledge only. Now I find myself longing for Christ, Himself. Our God is a faithful God. He is so willing and eager to reveal Himself. If only I could take it all in.

Ephesians 3:14-21 (New Living Translation)

Paul’s Prayer for Spiritual Growth

When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.

May your journey to the heart of Christ be sweet this week. Aloha!

Multitude Monday - Colossians 3:15

2010-03-15T14:18:00.000-10:00

I've been reading in the book of Colossians for the past couple of weeks. I just can't seem to get past it. That's when I know the Lord wants me to stop and savor what's there. It's not hard to do. The book of Colossians is so rich. This verse is speaking to me today:

Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.

Colossians 5:15-17 (The Message)

We've started spring break at our house this week. The three youngest are off to camp, and the oldest will be spending more hours than usual at work. This will leave me with a quiet house. Wow. I hardly know what to do with myself. I plan on doing a lot of praying. Things haven't been harmonious at our house, and I feel the need to pull back, regroup, and seek the Lord. Letting the Word of Christ have run of the house... that's my goal. I tend to put a strangle hold on schedule, time, and in turn, hearts.... I need to give the Word "plenty of room."

Cultivating thankfulness. I know I'm on the road to recovery. Here's this week's list:

(141 - 160)

good water pressure in a hot shower

music of wind chimes

alarm ringing for prayer, and I'm already praying

home made tortillas

finding another reason for home education

learning a new worship hula

a beautiful drive

endurance to finish

knowing your kids' friends are good ones

Saturday morning, sleeping in

courage to speak up and step out

a piece of driftwood

a grateful child, enjoying a gift

silence

my voice back...to sing praise

breathtaking sunset

clean clothes

a perfectly matched set of sea-shell treasures

when he thrills my heart with a smile

the first tomato on a struggling vine

keeping warm in a old-friend quilt

the privilege of being asked to pray

Read the gratitude of others at the link below:

The Invisible Woman

2010-03-13T13:15:00.009-10:00

My friend Kathy brought this to my attention. I knew I had to share it here.

(Pause the player on the right before you watch this clip.)

Another friend of mine, Donnetta, wrote a beautiful piece on Beer-lahai-roi which means "Well of the Living One who sees me." You'll find it here at My Quiet Corner.

God sees. To some, that may not be good news. But to those who are living their lives for Him, that is the best news yet.

Here are some words from His Word:

Psalm 10:14

But you, O God, do see trouble and grief;

you consider it to take it in hand.

The victim commits himself to you;

you are the helper of the fatherless.

Psalm 33:13

From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind.

Psalm 121:2-4

My help comes from the LORD,

the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot slip—

he who watches over you will not slumber;

indeed, he who watches over Israel

will neither slumber nor sleep.

Psalm 1:6

For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,

but the way of the wicked will perish.

Multitude Monday - Isaiah 29

2010-03-08T13:11:00.000-10:00

Isaiah 29:23-24,

When they see among them their children,

the work of my hands,

they will keep my name holy;

they will acknowledge the holiness of the Holy One of Jacob,

and will stand in awe of the God of Israel.

Those who are wayward in spirit will gain understanding;

those who complain will accept instruction."

Is I travel down this road of gratefulness, I see that my eyes have been blind to a great many things. I'm just now starting to see the "work" of God's hands in my life previously ignored. The Word of God is true. Seeing God's work makes me revere Him more. With a humbled heart, I endeavor to keep His name holy. With eyes open to see God's grace in my life, I am much less likely to complain, and my wayward spirit of selfishness and pity are exchanged for understanding. The fruit of this whole process is that I'm more grateful! What a wonderful, upward spiral to be on!

I did better with my list this week. I was able to add to it almost daily in small chunks. I think it makes the list more meaningful. Like I've said before, this is a process... and I'm seeing progress!

The 1000 Gifts list for this week:

(126-140)

morning sun through the steam of fresh tea

sisters painting each other's nails - in peace

Jimmy Stewart movie, old friend

late blooming poinsettia

the sound of gentle rain at bedtime

a choice parking space, just in time

acapella praise from the heart

a tail-gate lunch at the conference

my girls with me, seeking Jesus together

jumping up and down in a room of thousands, praising God with David Crowder Band

performance art filled with praise and worship

new inspiration to draw near to His heart

being silly

laughter as good medicine

connections made with fellow travelers on this journey of pressing in

One of the conference speakers, Nancy Beach, posed this question.

"Who will notice the wonder of what God has placed for us to find?"

Wonder is a call to worship. I want to live in a state of wonder.

Read what others are discovering about this journey of gratefulness at the link below:

Full from feasting

2010-03-06T21:54:00.000-10:00

Since Thursday evening, I have been attending a conference here in Honolulu. It's an annual event that draws 4000 Christians, (1000 are young people), from all over to come together to worship and learn of our Lord. It was great. One of the highlights was an awesome concert by the David Crowder Band. My soul is so full, I can hardly move. It will take a little bit to digest all the goodies that I have consumed. So, here's just a taste. Something to ponder on Our Lord's Day...

Be still and know that I am God.

Be still and know that I am.

Be still and know.

Be still.

Be.

So many entries for the gratitude list on Monday! See you then.

Hunger is a Gift

2010-03-03T16:53:00.005-10:00

Hunger. Hunger is usually something we try to avoid. When we're hungry, we want to make it go away by eating our fill. Hunger in the world is so extreme. It is a mark of poverty. How we work to avoid hunger.

“God blesses those who are poor

and realize their need for him,

for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs."

Matthew 5:3

Last year, my father-in-law had a few months were he just wasn't hungry. He slowly lost weight and we were all quite worried. How do you force someone to eat who just doesn't want to. If only we could get him to be hungry, he would reach for the food that would make him whole. Thankfully, with the grace of God, he began to eat again and is at a better weight.

That's when I realized that hunger is a gift. Without it, we wont reach for the nurishment we need. Spiritual hunger is also a gift. When we realize our need for Jesus, we will reach out to know him more.

One of the "desert fathers" (I think it was Julian of Norwich) was praying, asking God to help her pray for 5 hours every day. She felt the Lord tell her to look at the little birds. God doesn't tell them to eat. They eat when they are hungry. When you are hungry for God, then you will pray.

I will praise you as long as I live,

lifting up my hands to you in prayer.

You satisfy me more than the richest feast.

I will praise you with songs of joy.

Psalm 63:4-5

Lord, thank you for the gift of hunger. May I feast at the table of Your presence. Amen.

To read other's thoughts on Hunger, click on the lick below:

Multitude Monday - Psalm 29

2010-03-01T22:38:00.004-10:00

Psalm 29

A psalm of David.

1 Honor the Lord, you heavenly beings;

honor the Lord for his glory and strength.

2 Honor the Lord for the glory of his name.

Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.

3 The voice of the Lord echoes above the sea.

The God of glory thunders.

The Lord thunders over the mighty sea.

4 The voice of the Lord is powerful;

the voice of the Lord is majestic.

5 The voice of the Lord splits the mighty cedars;

the Lord shatters the cedars of Lebanon.

6 He makes Lebanon’s mountains skip like a calf;

he makes Mount Hermon leap like a young wild ox.

7 The voice of the Lord strikes

with bolts of lightning.

8 The voice of the Lord makes the barren wilderness quake;

the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.

9 The voice of the Lord twists mighty oaks

and strips the forests bare.

In his Temple everyone shouts, “Glory!”

10 The Lord rules over the floodwaters.

The Lord reigns as king forever.

11 The Lord gives his people strength.

The Lord blesses them with peace.

This week's entries in the 1000 Gifts list:

(111 - 125)

healthy kids on their birthdays

serving birthday breakfasts in bed

field trip to Iolani Palace

God's provision - yet again

getting my voice back

the blooming of a forgotten orchid

Sister-in-law's gift to me from Israel

God's hand on father-in-law, disorientation reversed

beautiful evening at the sandbar for Steph and her friends

time to reconnect with my true love

a heart hungry for God

a tsunami that was very small

the 90th birthday celebration of a dear saint

warm socks

taking time to enjoy a ride on the backyard tree swing

Photos: family fun at Ho'omaluhia and North Shore

The Tsunami is coming...

2010-02-27T10:42:00.000-10:00

Woke up this morning to the emergency siren...6:00 a.m. Not good news. The earthquake off of the Chilean coast has generated a tsunami wave that will hit Hawaii around 11:00 a.m.

North Shore, January 2010

My family and I are not in any danger, but prayers do go up for those folks in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. They may be in for some serious water.

So far, our only affect has been that we've had to cancel Rebecca's birthday celebration. We were planning on taking a pack of girls out on the boat to the sandbar. Obviously, we have to postpone. It was to be the second of three birthday parties in our family this weekend.

The first was for Steph who is now 18 year old. We took a bunch of her friends to the sandbar last night and had a great evening with pizza, a bonfire and the game buck-buck. If you don't know buck-buck, check out this link:

On Sunday, we've scheduled Andrew's party. We plan to take his friends bowling in the evening. So, unless there is some other unforeseen natural disaster, that should go on as planned.

Psalm 65

For the choir director: A song. A psalm of David.

1 What mighty praise, O God,

belongs to you in Zion.

We will fulfill our vows to you,

2 for you answer our prayers.

All of us must come to you.

3 Though we are overwhelmed by our sins,

you forgive them all.

4 What joy for those you choose to bring near,

those who live in your holy courts.

What festivities await us

inside your holy Temple.

5 You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds,

O God our savior.

You are the hope of everyone on earth,

even those who sail on distant seas.

6 You formed the mountains by your power

and armed yourself with mighty strength.

7 You quieted the raging oceans

with their pounding waves

and silenced the shouting of the nations.

8 Those who live at the ends of the earth

stand in awe of your wonders.

From where the sun rises to where it sets,

you inspire shouts of joy.

It's a busy time, but so much to be thankful for. I can't wait to post my additions to the 1000 gifts list on Monday. 'Til then... I'm just enjoying the view (from high ground)!

Multitude Monday

2010-02-22T19:23:00.000-10:00

I've been sick this week. Nothing serious, just a cold. But I'm off my normal schedule. I hate that. But even when I'm physically down, God's faithfulness gives me strength. There is always something to be thankful for.

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

1 Thes. 5:18

Continuing the 1000 gifts list:

(91 - 110)
new leaves on my tomato plant

the sound of birds in the morning

birthday week at my house

being able to iron clothes for my hubby - who has a job

new Truths

free admission to a great conference

friends who see the tear and come to pray

the dog who jumps up on my lap

progress in school

schedules that bring order

deep blue eyes that truly see me

a dear hand to hold

hand-me-downs from friends

the gift of being there

a Father who always has enough

getting the courage to start my new visual journal - pictures pasted, now to add words...

litergy that brings comfort

getting a bigger picture of the Body of Christ

warm bread with butter

the sound of his truck pulling into the carport

Ash Wednesday - Turning My Heart Toward Home

2010-02-17T20:35:00.003-10:00

Woke the girls up early today and attended an Ash Wednesday Mass. It was the first time I'd been in that particular church, St. Anthony's, even though I've lived in the area for over 30 years. The priest talked about how Ash Wednesday and Lent are similar to Toyota. It is a time to be recalled. A time to come back for adjustments to the journey to God's heart. I really resonate with that thought.

Over and over this week, the Lord is bringing me messages that contain a single theme: humility. Jesus is the very picture of humble. I want more of that in my life. He has made it abundantly clear that He wants more if it in my life, too.

Physically and emotionally, it's been a trying week. Who's idea was it to put a perimenopausal woman and three adolescent females in the same house...difficult. (Condolences may be sent to Mark and Andrew...) But that is where the stuff of my character is shown. What's inside the glass will come out when jostled. God is teaching me to be a minister in my home first and foremost. That is the true test of His love living in me. Don't worry. It's really not as bad as I make it sound. There is joy and love in the midst of these trials. His grace is giving me eyes to see it. I am grateful.

I love this song. It was written and originally performed by Rich Mullins. He was such an intense soul. Now he's with Jesus. This remake of the song is a great tribute and I believe it really captures the raw emotion that the words portray. (Pause the player at the top of this page before you play the video.)

As I head into Lent, I'm thinking of the words that the priest shared this morning. "Lent is a season we love to hate." I can totally understand that. I love to be drawn to the heart of Jesus. That's my safe place. But to get there, I must cast everything else aside. I go empty handed.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a

huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith,

let us strip off every weight that slows us down,

especially the sin that so easily trips us up.

And let us run with endurance the race

God has set before us.

We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus,

the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.

Because of the joy awaiting him,

he endured the cross, disregarding its shame.

Now he is seated in the place of honor

beside God’s throne.

Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people;

then you won’t become weary and give up.

Hebrews 12:1-3 NLT

As the ashes were crossed onto my forehead, the words "Repent of your sins and believe in the gospel," were ringing in my ears. Yes, LORD, I do repent. Yes, LORD, I do believe. Amen.

Random Thoughts

2010-02-12T16:14:00.001-10:00

Okay, it's Friday of a very long week. Can't get a cohesive thought together, so I share some random ones...

#1: Faith and Bellybuttons
(I told you it was random.) Stay with me...

At one time, we all depended on our umbilical cord for life. We got all our nourishment and oxygen from our mothers through it. We developed into who we would be while attached to it. But on the day our our birth, the cord was cut. We could eat and breath on our own. It became useless.

It occurred to me the other day that there will be a time when I wont have to live by faith. When I get to heaven all the questions will have been answered. All the wonderings will be known and my faith will be useless. Kind of like my bellybutton is now. I wonder if I'll get some sort of spiritual bellybutton in Heaven to remember the days when faith was my lifeline here on earth...

I LOVE this view 'cause it means I'm lying on the deck of Pakele Nui!

#2: The Pioneer Woman did a post about the things she loves. Here's my list.

I love:

rain

driving my Jeep

worship music

quiet

my kid's laughter

green mountains

daffodils

sand between my toes

dawn

stars

chocolate

snuggles

candle light

flag football

roosters

spring break

granola

a good foreign film

home education

watching my daughter's dance

listening to my kids sing

sailing

reaching the top of Olomana

blogging

running

smiling

peonies

reading

listing things...

#3: Holding a newborn.

Today, I got to hold a sweet little one. He was so small, he just fit into the bend of my arm. I got to feed him his morning snack; four ounces of formula. Oh, those little grunting sounds he made reminded me of when my own were so little. The smell of his head, the warmth of his skin, and the little TINY feet and fingers were almost more than I could bear.

Is it possible that now, 3 of 4 of my babies are bigger than me? February is birthday month at our house. Three of my four have their birthdays within an 8 day stretch. No, I did not plan it that way... By the end of the month, I will have a new 18 year old, a 14 year old, and a 10 year old. (The 15 year old's birthday is in April ~ on Easter this year!) The seasons of my life are changing.

LORD, help me stay faithful in the process!

#4: I love this ballet.

Reminds me of what happens when Mark has to leave for work... *;)

I may be a bit random today, but the word of the LORD stands forever constant:

Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

— 1 Corinthians 13:6-7 (NIV)

The Path to a Grateful Heart

2010-02-08T00:00:00.001-10:00

The gratitude habit is gradually taking hold of me. I find myself thinking - oh, that's gonna be on the list this week. With the change already happening in my heart, I can't wait to see the progress at #1000. I'm barely one-tenth of the way there...

This week's additions to the 1000 Gifts:

71. warm oatmeal cookies and tea

72. a play-day for Andrew

73. curling up with a good book

74. an evening sail before the "cold' front moved in

75. blooming azaleas

76. opportunity to attend a web-seminar for worship leaders

77. God's faithful provision

78. letter to a friend

79. my crock-pot; actually it was my moms - I'm thankful it still works!

80. smiles around the dinner table

81. a comfortable home

82. contentment - even momentary

83. the longing in my heart to pray without ceasing

84. warm sunshine

85. sand in the car that reminds me of a fun beach day

86. coffee with a friend

87. finishing lesson plans on Saturday so that Sunday is the Lord's

88. seeing dreams come true for deserving people

89. kid's laughter from the next room

90. discovering that new traditions can start with me, now

Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.

Colossians 3:14-16 (NLT)

May God richly bless you this week.

Remembering Nana

2010-02-05T15:41:00.001-10:00

Nana blows out her candles at her 89th, in 1993.

Yesterday, my grandmother, Ruby Logan Beardsley, would have been 106 years old. She went on to heaven when she was 94. We called her Nana. Being stationed in Hawaii since I was 4 years old, my parent's families where always very far away. I didn't grow up with extended family around. But when I was in about the 7th grade, my Nana came to Hawaii to live with us. She was having trouble living on her own in Colorado Springs. The winters were too much for her arthritis. I got to give up my room and in return, I got a grandma right in my own house. It was great.

Playing around ~ about 1920.

Since my mom worked and my older sisters where either in college or about to graduate from high school, Nana and I got to spend a lot of time together. She introduced me to Soap Operas. We'd watch All My Children together almost everyday when I got home from school. She tried to teach me to knit, but being a lefty, I didn't really get it. I loved to hear Nana's stories about growing up on her parent's dirt farm in Missouri. I thought she must have been Laura Ingalls in the flesh. During her lifetime, she saw the coming of indoor plumbing, the convenience of electricity, the automobile, and the airplane and space ship. She also saw the two "great wars" and a few not so great ones. She lost her first love in WWI. She never really talked about that, but we have the pictures she so carefully saved. She followed Prent (my grandpa) to the oil fields of Wyoming and raised two boys there.

Nana came for a visit in 1974

Nana was always there for me. When I learned to drive, she let me borrow her car - a sweet Ford Maverick that could really move. She showed me the power of resilience. She was a tower of strength in a life that had its fair share of pain. She was there when I graduated from high school, and then for college. She was there at my wedding. Then, when the time came for her to be in a nursing home, I brought my babies to visit. We'd just sit and watch them. She was so proud of them and always saved a cookie for them when they came over.

At Paradise Park ~ Nana's not as sure as I am about the birds...

I miss my Nana. So yesterday, in honor of Nana's birthday, I made a batch of oatmeal cookies. Nana made the best, but I tried... I was about to put them in a ratty old plastic container when I remembered that I have her cut-glass cookie jar. I took it down from the shelf and filled it with memories of her.

On my father's side of the family, my sisters and I are the oldest generation now. I have many material things that remind me of who they were on this earth. But it's the memories I carry in my heart that mean the most. And it's the anticipation of our reunion in Heaven that I hang on to. Who can be sad when our separation is only temporary?

Psalm 100

A psalm of thanksgiving.

Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth!

Worship the Lord with gladness.

Come before him, singing with joy.

Acknowledge that the Lord is God!

He made us, and we are his.

We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving;

go into his courts with praise.

Give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good.

His unfailing love continues forever,

and his faithfulness continues to each generation.

The Upside of the Downside...

2010-02-03T08:24:00.000-10:00

Sunday's climb up to Mount Olomana was great. The view was worth every rope climbed. So many spiritual lessons rattle in my brain... But coming down from the mountain, that's the lesson that is asking to be explored.

Ah, the "mountain-top experience." Very well named. So much of my time is spent seeking it. But life in this world demands that after the experience, I must come down.

Coming back from the retreat last week left me so out of sorts in my routine. I was off kilter for days. How can the lessons I learned about climbing back down from Olomana help me make the transition to life in the valley?

Here are four lessons I've discovered:

Lesson #1: Stop wishing for a life lived at the "top" or for the helicopter ride down, just get moving.
I really didn't want to come down from that beautiful place. It was such an effort to get there, I just wanted to savor it. But the sun was setting, and I really had no choice. So, instead of having a tantrum, I got myself up, and headed back down the trail. If I had really stopped to think about all those steep cliffs and rope descents, I would have become paralyzed with fear. Not helpful. So I adopted Elizabeth Elliot's mantra, "Just do the next thing," and started putting myself through the motions.

Lesson #2: Use the same ropes you used to get up, to get yourself down.
Those holy habits that I'm learning to use to get up to the mountain-top experience, are also helpful when it's time to scale back down. The disciplines of my regular quiet time, hard stops for prayer, scripture memorization, and journaling, all help me focus on Jesus and give me strength to come back down into the plain or valley where the majority of my life is lived.

Lesson #3: Don't look a the drop-off, just keep your eyes on the next step.
When coming down those big boulders, it was necessary to look down to place your next step. I had to focus very purposefully on the rock where I would step, and not the sheer drop just beside it. I really don't like heights, so this was a test of my focus. I just couldn't afford to let my eyes stray. When coming back down to the "everyday" of life, keeping my focus on the Solid Rock helps to push back fear and build faith.

Lesson #4: Take the mountain-top experience with you down to the valley - and share it!
As our group came down the mountain, we just couldn't stop talking about how wonderful it was. We took pictures to remember and share. Now, when I pass by that mountain, I will always remember that day. It looks so high and difficult to climb. It's hard to believe we where really there. Those memories will last many years. How will anyone know that the climb was worth it unless we tell them?

Psalm 121

A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.

I look up to the mountains—

does my help come from there?

My help comes from the Lord,

who made heaven and earth!

He will not let you stumble;

the one who watches over you will not slumber.

Indeed, he who watches over Israel

never slumbers or sleeps.

The Lord himself watches over you!

The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade.

The sun will not harm you by day,

nor the moon at night.

The Lord keeps you from all harm

and watches over your life.

The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go,

both now and forever.

As time goes on, I may discover more lessons, but this will do for now. God is good. He never wastes any experience. He is the Good Shepherd that speaks to me in ways that I can understand. I pray that these discoveries will be a blessing to you, too.

Photos by Jake Heaton, co-moutain climber.

Heading up the mountain...

2010-01-31T21:35:00.000-10:00

Sunday is the day we try to do things together as a family. As the kids get older, it is getting harder to get us all together. So, we put our foot down today and called a mandatory family hike. It was beautiful! We scaled a peak that I've never been on. Mark had taken our oldest daughter Steph when she was about 11 years old. I thought, "How hard can it be?" Well, as you will see, this was not our usual walk-in-the-park hike. There were ropes to climb.... But the trail was cool, and the view was phenomenal. And you should know by the name of this blog...it's all about the view with me. Here are a few pictures of our day.

Our goal was the tallest peak of Mount Olomana. As you can see, there are some steep climbs.

The trail was a bit muddy.

There are beautiful, old trees that shade the hike most of the way up. Their gnarled branches and roots are great hand-holds up the muddy slopes.

Every once in a while, the trees clear for a peek of the upcoming view...

We just kept climbing, up and up, and up...

Here is Rachael on one of the rope climbing spots. There are about 4 or 5 different ropes to climb.

Next up was Rebecca.

Andrew found climbing easier in his bare feet. Mark spots him from behind. Andrew will be 10 next month. He's the youngest one in our family to make this trip.

Finally, after about 90 minutes of hiking, we reach the top!

This is the view looking out over Kailua, and on to Kaneohe Bay in the distance.

There are 3 peaks on this mountain, we stopped at the first and highest peak.

Resting at the top. The view of Waimanalo in the background.

(And our friend, Tom. He's in his early 60's but makes this hike about once a month....)

Rebecca, me and Rachael with Kailua in the background. Yes, I'm tired but exhilarated by the view!

Smile!

We also brought our friend Jake. Jake was with us on the hike that Mark punctured his leg. We had to take him on another hike (get back on the horse, so to speak) and show him that all of our life is not such drama.

After enjoying the view for a few minutes, we realized that the sun was beginning to set. We had to move back down the trail.

Have you ever wondered how you got yourself into a situation. I was wishing a helicopter could just pluck me from the summit....but it was not to be. We had to go down the same way we got up...ropes.

My girls are so brave. They just took off.

Actually, I was much better at the ropes than I had thought I'd be. I really wondered if I would be too scared to do it. There was a time in my life, as I've said in other posts, where I would not have even attempted a hike like this. (As my sisters will tell you, I've spent what seemed like hours in a tree being too scared to come down.) But I realized that I would be missing so much. You just can't explain the experience to someone else (even though I'm trying to here). And these pictures do not do the view justice.

My man does wonders to get me to places that I really want to go. His spirit of adventure is contagious. I love him for it! And I'll follow him anywhere.

God is my strong fortress,

and he makes my way perfect.

He makes me as surefooted as a deer,

enabling me to stand on mountain heights.

He trains my hands for battle;

he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow.

2 Samuel 22:33-35 (NLT)

I haven't had to draw a bronze bow, but I'm thankful He provided strength to climb those ropes!

Here's this week's entries for the 1000 Gifts list:

53. cool, rainy days that remind me that it is still winter.

54. new battery for the car

55. husband's daily gift of making our bed

56. Andrew's short story

57. the freedom of a well-timed "no"

58. the freedom of a well-timed "yes"

59. bartering for lessons: ballet and piano

60. bird songs through the sound of rain

61. sister's phone calls

62. when eyes open minutes before the alarm goes off, easing the morning faithfulness

63. "home education" in my jammies once in a while

64. home made stew to share

65. taking a break from my beloved treadmill to run on the open road

66. safe trip up and down the mountain

67. living surrounded by incredible beauty

68. being able to see personal growth in shedding old fears

69. sharing beauty with family and friends

70. a cup of tea on a fancy tray

Feel free to join in with your own list. Post a link on your comment. I'd love to see it. Thanks!

The faithfulness of God in second chances...

2010-01-24T23:12:00.004-10:00

As I write this post, I'm reflecting on my list of "faithful" scriptures. I came upon the story found in Exodus 34 were Moses brings new stone tables to Mount Sinai. He has already smashed the first set. But God, in his mercy gives the nation of Israel another chance. He will again write his covenant on the stone for Moses to share with the people.

5 Then the Lord came down in a cloud and stood there with him; and he called out his own name, Yahweh.

6 The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out,

“Yahweh! The Lord!

The God of compassion and mercy!

I am slow to anger

and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.

Moses climbed the mountain early in the morning, and the LORD came down to meet him. That thought stops me in my tracks. The God of the Universe, comes down to meet with Moses. How personal, how loving, how patient He is with His people. And God calls Himself by name, "Yahweh", the One who makes covenants with men. The One who keeps covenants for He is faithful.

Moses was literally left glowing from his time on the mountain with God. He was physically changed by God's presence.

It is no accident that the LORD brought this scripture to me for this moment. I currently am feeling very short tempered and my love is failing... I'm irritated and tired. The women's retreat came to an end this morning, and it left me spiritually refreshed, but physically tired. Right now, the physical is winning out on my attitude. I'm behind on my gratitude list... But out of obedience, I am determined to be faithful to my goal.

LORD, please help me to be more like You; slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. As I come daily to the mountain of Your presence, may my life be a reflection of our time together. Amen

This week's gathering of the 1000 Gifts:

44. the faithful ladies who attended our retreat
45. the opportunity and privilege to pray at the altar with hurting ones today
46. old hymns that revive old hearts
47. new songs that stir new passion
48. returning home to a house abuzz with teens
49. daughter at retreat as companion and friend
50. Hersey's dark chocolate kisses
51. curling up on the chair with Andrew and a new story
52. a gratitude community that challenges me to right attitudes

Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate you!

Feel free to join in with your list. Post a link on your comment. I'd love to see it. Thanks!

Photo: family hike to the Pali Lookout waterfall.

A Faithful Pilgrimage

2010-01-22T14:35:00.002-10:00

This weekend I'm off to our church's annual Women's Retreat. I've been part of this group of women for 23 years, and I've been involved in planning the retreat in one way or another for about 21 of those years. (I only missed one retreat during that time.) No matter what is happening in our lives, we always manage to get away for a weekend. Over the years, dear sisters have moved away or moved on to heaven and new sisters take their place. But there is that core of ladies, the remnant that remains faithful year after year. I guess I'm one of them.

I know these ladies love me. How? Because they always agree to whatever I throw at them. From the country crafts we did in the 80's, to the fashion shows and karaoke of the 90's, to the fire tunnels and contemplation of this decade, they jump in with both feet. That is truly a blessing to me. They have let me think I'm in charge, when in reality, they have been mentoring me and allowing me to grow up. Such a lesson of grace.

So it is with a humble heart that I venture back to our retreat. I know they will love me through all my shenanigans this weekend. (That's what retreats are for!) And God will be faithful again to bring us loser to His heart, and to each other.

Have a great weekend!

Photo by my niece, Kelsi Kauhane on Pakele Nui.

Enjoying the View

A View from the Fast Lane

Where's the Wonder?

Psalm 17:6-8

Enough is enough... Really it is!

e·nough

Learning to Enjoy the View of the Valley

Looking at Jesus with New Eyes

...that they may know the mystery of God, even Christ,

in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hidden.

Let the River Flow

“Anyone who is thirsty may come to me!

Anyone who believes in me may come and drink!

For the Scriptures declare,

‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”

- Jesus, from John 7:37-39 (NLT)

The Offenses of Jesus: A Strange and Difficult Message

Looking Back, Looking Forward

Camping at Kualoa - now I know it's really summer!

The Source

The Offenses of Jesus: The Women, Part 2

Summer is Here! Housekeeping on the blog.

The Offenses of Jesus – The Women in Jesus’ Life, part 1

Back to reality...

Enjoying the View is becoming more than a blog name.

Retreat on the horizon....Waterfall in the rear view...

This is my solomn vow....

Pacesetter...Moi?

The Offenses of Jesus: The Faith of a Gentile Woman

Silence

The Offenses of Jesus: Honor God with your heart, not just your lipsl

I needed a pacesetter

The Offenses of Jesus: An Introduction

Compassion killed my joy...

Picture of Procrastination

Great weekend ~ and new inspiration!

"I can do it all by myself... "

'Now why don't he write?"

Tuesday...I'm back!

Family Photos Friday

Multitude Monday

Multitude Monday?

Multitude Monday

Certainly

Multitude Monday

Fatihful - God is true to His word.

My daily question to God...

Psalm 23

An environment for life...

Multitude Monday - Psalm 50

The Harvest Has Come

Always something to be grateful for...

It's just so simple...

Determinted to Rest

Yes, I'm still here...

Multitude Monday - Colossians 3:15

The Invisible Woman

Multitude Monday - Isaiah 29

Full from feasting

Hunger is a Gift

Multitude Monday - Psalm 29

The Tsunami is coming...

Multitude Monday

Ash Wednesday - Turning My Heart Toward Home

Random Thoughts

The Path to a Grateful Heart

Remembering Nana

The Upside of the Downside...

Heading up the mountain...

The faithfulness of God in second chances...

A Faithful Pilgrimage