Merry Christmas friends!! Getting ready for COMPEL 2011!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Hoping your celebration of the birth of our savior is going well! I was awake much of last night savoring our family Christmas eve and then remembering that so many are sad and struggle through the holidays. My heart is so heavy for those people, I pray blessings over each of them as they work their way through today!!

I'm hoping some of you were blessed with tickets to this years event coming up soon! The details are coming together and the prayer team is already praying for those of you that have signed up!!

If you don't have your ticket already make sure you sign up early. We had a minor glitch with amazon last week, but everything seems to be running smoothly now! Our apologies if you were trying to sign up and encountered problems!

You can sign up at our website www.compelconference.org

Even before i can get Christmas completed I'm getting more excited about January. WOW. Did I dally just type that??? More to come!!

Christmas - It's about the cross...


So... I have a big passion for sharing ways to keep Christ in Christmas.  So many times the holidays get hectic and we're so wrapped up in the great activities (I mean that in the kindest way possible...  They are really great events...)  that we don't take time to slow down... to be still... and to know that He is God.  Really.  Stop and think about it.  When in the last month have you been still and just listened for his voice.  (Especially without that nagging voice checking off things to get done!) 

As we close in on Christmas, I'm want to share a youtube link with you.  This is a great song, that reminds us of our eternal life!  Blessings to you and your family as we make final preparations for the arrival of our "king." 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tNyKzIABfk

Resurrection... Rolls.

OK - It didn't take me too long to find something "else" to share.  Christmas is right around the corner, and many of us are starting to think about "what to feed them."  You may not know this about me, but I have a HUGE passion for keeping Christ in Christmas, and am always on the lookout for new ideas!  Anyway...  I was reading blogs this morning (because of the snow storm, I didn't have to run out to my scheduled volunteer opportunities, so I'm in my jammies reading and sipping coffee!)  and came across this and felt prompted to share! 

So... I recently joined a blog site called "She cooks" (http://www.shecooks.org/) from LeAnn Rice at Proverbs 31. Today on her post she had ideas for Christmas morning breakfast. This is a receipe that I made for my family recently, but didn't know they were called this.

I'm so excited for the Christmas season, but one of my passions is helping my kids (and some adults) learn to really celebrate why we have Christmas and that it is more than head knowledge, but becomes heart felt. This is just another small tradition that we can share to help us remember...

He came as a baby, with a virgin birth. That moment, a miracle.
However, an annointed baby - awesome, but a risen savior, now that's what it's about.
He died on the cross for us... again, what a price to pay.
But.... the real reason, the real gift, the real everything...
Defeating satan and rising from the dead, so that we have ETERNAL life...
That our sins and yuck could be forgiven
And we could one day join Him in His perfection.


LeAnn’s Favorite Christmas Breakfast Idea

It may sound odd but I always make Resurrection Rolls for our Christmas breakfast. (I make them for Easter, too.) To me, on Christmas we celebrate the gift of Hope. Hope came to us wrapped in swaddling cloth. But He was born to die. Jesus died so that we may truly live. I remember this ultimate gift and ultimate sacrifice by making Resurrection Rolls for Christmas each year. They are easy to make and they provide a great opportunity to share the story of His resurrection with others. Here’s the recipe:



Resurrection Rolls

1 container large crescent roll dough (not the regular size – they won’t work)

½ stick butter, melted

8 large marshmallows

Cinnamon sugar mixture (purchase the mix or combine 1 teaspoon cinnamon for every tablespoon of sugar)


Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Separate the dough triangles. (This represents the cloth that Jesus was wrapped in.)

Take a marshmallow. (This represents Jesus.)

Dip the marshmallow in melted butter and roll to coat. (This represents the oils of embalming.)

Dip the buttered marshmallow in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and coat evenly. (This represents the spices used to anoint His body.)

Wrap up the coated marshmallow tightly in the crescent roll to seal the marshmallow inside. (This represents the wrapping of Jesus’ body after death.)

Place on a cookie sheet and place in the preheated oven for the length of time indicated on the crescent roll package. (The oven represents the tomb.)

When the rolls have cooked and cooled slightly, bite into the rolls and discover that Jesus is no longer there, HE IS RISEN! (The marshmallow melts and the crescent roll is puffed up, but empty!)

These rolls are not only a delicious Christmas breakfast, they are another opportunity to give praise and thanks for the ultimate Christmas present. Serve them with some fresh fruit and hot chocolate.

I'm in Love...

So, those of you that know me are thinking... awe, isn't that sweet... BUT... this time I'm not talking about my dear sweet husband. (Although I love him to infinity and beyond too!) I'm talking about Revelation. You know... the last book of the bible. The one for years many of us have been afraid to read. The one that up until recently when Tom and I did a Beth Moore study (yes... you read that right! My husband did a Beth Moore study with me:-) I thought was so full of things I could never understand that it was hard for me to push my way through it. (BTW - If you haven't done Beth Moore's Revelation study - I consider it a MUST for every christian. Very solid on presenting all the views from the commentaries and explaining how they arrived at that view!)


Anyway... I'm now loving the book of Revelation. Over the last few days, I've decided to read it in a variety of bibles and translations. As I've read through the new testament right after completing this study, I'm amazed at how God has opened my eyes to the number of references it contains to the end times. So many things are linked from the old testament to the new testament, right into Revelation. Very cool!

During our study, this was our memory verse...

Rev 17:14
They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”

(which by the way, I'm still working on!)

I guess with all the cool things in Revelation, I love this verse because it is truly the heart of who we are as Christians; and with him (Jesus) will be his called, chosen and faithful followers (THAT'S US LADIES!!!) So, Satan can have a hay day for the time being on Earth. BUT, Jesus IS coming again, victorious AGAIN, overcoming and we will be with him.

Now, no promises that it will be all roses and blossoms. It's going to be a rough road to get there. We are going to have troubles. No doubt about that. But, whether it's today, tomorrow, next month, next year, in the next generation, or the generation after that... whenever it's time for Jesus to come again... as a faithful follower, we get to be with him and join him. AND then.... we get to live eternity in the Glory of God the Father. WOW.... really - WOW. Not just sweet songs and quietness, but joy and adoration. Rejoicing. No more sorrow, no more pain. (WHoot - Hoot!)

Someone once told me to read Revelation out loud like a story. I did this a few years ago sitting in a wooded area on a mini-retreat with my bible study. My friend Deanne and I took turns reading and listening. It was awesome. My hope is that this weekend, as a way of concluding this 30 day journey, that I can find some quiet time to do that again. To take it in.

So... this is the end of my 30 day journey. Guess you're all stuck with me going back to my random blogs! We'll see what God puts on my heart for that piece! I'm thinking that I'll post some things from Lysa's book - Becoming more than a good bible study girl.

The Last hour...

Hello again...


We're getting so close to the end of the New Testament! Woo-Hoo!

Today's reading was I Peter: 3-5, 2 Peter, and 1 John

I paused today at 1 John 2:18 - 19
18 Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. 19 They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.

I think this sticks out from a recent Beth Moore bible study that we did. In it, she pointed out that their have been and will be several anti-christs. This verse talks about that very thing - even now many antichrists have come.

I found her point really interesting and as I read this tonight, it flooded back to me. You see, only God knows when the second coming is. So... Satan has to always be prepared, and continue to send anti-christs. Who the one-great anti-christ is, we do not know... But we can bet that Satan will continue to put obstacles in our way.

All this isn't to scare us. It's to continue to encourage us to read his word and to know it and what he says. When the false teachers are trying to lead us astray, we need to be firmly rooted in His truth!

"Father God, thank you for the bible. You give us truth in your own god breathed manner so that we can know what is from you and what is from man. I pray that you'd give us wisdom in our difficult days to turn toward your word and your holy spirits promptings. Lead us and guide us toward you and away from things that are not of you!"

Water symbolizes baptism... Three small but powerful words.

This is a piece of artwork by Thomas duBois.  Tom and I have this set of 4, which we fell in love with years ago, and managed to get for each others as gifts over the first years of our marriage.  I look at this piece daily, and tonight, it takes on special meaning...

I'm sitting here tonight and pondering how I missed so many things for so long in my lifetime.  I had intended to write about how many things I LOVED reading in Hebrews yesterday...

And then, doing today's reading (Hebres 11 - 1 Peter 2) I read into 1 Peter 3.  And at the end of Chapter 3, I read this...

1 Peter 3:20-21
20 to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God.[a] It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,



SO... I'm sure that many of you got this before, and I'm just a bit slow in catching on... but seriously, I NEVER realized that the significance of baptism stretched back to Noah.  Don't ask me why I never questioned why John the Baptist would do it...  I just assumed he was moved int he spirit to do so! 

God waited for Noah to build the ark for 120 years (I think...) and gave people time to change and believe.  

The flood separated Noah from the lost and gave him a new life.  Hmmm... the same is said of our spiritual baptism. 

And was it 9 complete months he was out there before landing on the mountain?  This is a stretch, but it seems like seeing the mountains and hitting ground is a bit like being "born again."   

8 in all saved, to me has revelance to how it will be in the end times.  Eight of Noah's out of how many people?  So to, will it likely be for Christians as a % of the population... 
WOW, WOW, WOW... (Ok - so if you're appalled I'm just getting this, I'm sorry!)  But seriously, why don't we talk about this piece at some point during our baptism ceremonies?????  (Then the slow ones like me would get it:-) 

This piece has me a bit undone tonight.  I'm digging into the commentaries and cross references in amazement!  I think this is on my list of "dig really deep..." items. 

"God thank you for new revelations.  Thanks for answering that prayer of opening my eyes so faithfully.   Continue to teach me things that are new to me...  I'm ok with being humbled!  And thank you for the promise of your holy spirit and it's cleansing in our baptism.  Thank you for transforming us and bringing us out of the old and into the new." 

Be Strong!

So today I am posting about 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon.  No apologies today for being a day late.  The flu is still working it's way through, and I'm at the point where I'm happy just be keeping my head above water:-) 

Good news is, I've been pondering this verse since Thursday morning...

2 Tim. 2:1

"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." 

Be strong....  His grace covers us, and we have the promise of eternal life.  He forgives our sins and makes us white as snow... but... "be strong?"  The foot note in my bible talked about how we are not only saved by grace, but that we should live by grace. 

In Colossians 2:6 we read...
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." 

Continue to live in him, live by grace.  Strengthened in faith, overflowing wtih thankfulness.  That's a lot to think about!  The mere fact that his grace abounds time and time again should help us to realize that we need to trust in Jesus.  He sent His Spirit, who is always with us and is able to do more than he...  When they do I try so often to do things on my own?  Why don't I allow him to "strengthen" me.  To give me wisdom, revelation, everything I need.  My strength and my very being should come from him! 

As I think back to the tail end of this little flu bug I'm fighting off, I think about how weak I've been.  Literally, there were times when standing up made me feel light headed and like I might pass out.  I associate that same type of feeling when I am operating on "all me" and ignoring the Holy Spirit at work in my life.  I end up in a panic of emotions and attacks from Satan that have my mind spinning.  When I was sick and felt this way, life has taught me I need to eat some crackers and try to get a bit of liquid in me.  From a spiritual standpoint, when my strength is weak, I need to turn to Jesus and let him strengthen me... 

"Lord, I'm overflowing with thankfulness for your strength at work in my life tonight.  In so many ways, you provide for me day after day after day.  Thank you.  Thank you for accepting me and applying grace time and time again.  Forgive my sin nature and strengthen me with more of you." 
 

So we raise up holy hands...

Hello today to all our friends joining us from the Proverbs 31/Lysa TerKeurst blog.  What a treat to have you stop by!  To our regular readers, Lysa mentioned our conference in her blog today! (http://www.lysaterkeurst.com/)   (And gave each of you a bit of insight on some of the "real" things she'll be talking about.)

A question I get often is who is our conference for.  We intend for our conference to be for all women.  We're not particular about what church you go to or if you don't go to church at all.  What we care about is sharing the love of Jesus to women right where they are in their everyday life.  For some, they have been walking out their spiritual journey for years, for others, the conference may be the first time they have experienced Jesus and felt him touch their hearts.  Come from near, or come from afar, just come... and soak in his presence and be blessed.  That is our heart.  That each who attend will leave feeling touched in a special way! 

I am so blessed by our leadership team.  They are truly women of prayer....  For quite some time already we have been in prayer for each person who would attend.  As soon as women register, we're sharing the list with each other so that we can pray for them by name.  Lysa and Holly, we're lifting you up as well.  I'm telling you, these ladies are awesome prayer warriors and I'm blessed to be a part of them!  (and then we have a whole separate prayer team, who rocks as well! Thank you Jesus!)     

For the past bit, I have been doing an exercise in digging into the word.  I was listening to a teaching series on the power of a focused life, and was moved by this piece.  If we ask Christians if they read their bible, of course we say "yes."  BUT... how much time are we truly spending in the word each day?  (More than with tv?)  The speaker went on to say that for many of us, it's hard to just know where to start.  The whole I'm just going to open it and read where God leads, leaves many feeling that they are missing something...  SO... he shared this.  Did you know that if you read 10 chapters a day, 6 days a week, that you will have read the entire new testament in 30 days???  I'm a goal setter kind of girl, so that really hit me!  Now.. somedays 10 chapters is alot... Especially if you're going to let it soak in at all.  However, having a goal in mind has really helped me reprioritize my time.  Because I've done some life coaching, I also know that 30 days is the amount of time it takes to form a new habit.  So....  I'm on the journey.  Reading my 10 chapters a day (with some grace applied - I'm human and I'm a mom, a wife, in ministry, etc.) and then blogging about what really stuck out to me! 

I'm posting this morning from yesterday's reading, which was 2 Thess. & 1 Tim. 

Ladies, let me tell you, there's a verse in here that I absolutely LOVE...

1 Timothy 2:8 -
"I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing." 

I remember when I first came to church with my husband while we were dating.  I came from a very conservative background, and people everywhere in his church were raising their hands and singing.  Then they asked us to get into small groups and pray "out loud" together (I was mortified and just passed when my "turn" came.)  After the service... his son was wrestling with someone...  in the sanctuary (Gasp.....)  This was WAY out of my comfort zone!  My, how God has worked on me since that time. 

God wants us to worship him.  That means different things to different people.  However, I hold firm that it's hard to let our hearts be completely free with him if we have anger or disputes.  So many times in my life, I've seen others abandonded in prayer and worship and asked God....  1) what's up with them? That can't be for real - which really meant - 2) God I'm jealous of how they can give themselves competely to you so I am going to judge their actions.

In the last few years, God has taught me a lot about lifting up hands in prayer.  Not only in acceptance in how people worship, but also in entering his presence with a right heart.  You see, when I was so busy worrying about others experience, it was ME that was preventing me from worshipping and praying to God all out.  It wasn't him.  I needed to change my posture.  I needed to examine my heart and realize that whatever bitterness I was harboring was keeping me from getting closer to him.  God calls me to love others.  When I'm not operating in love, I'm out of his will for me.  (which, by the way happens daily:-(  But again, he's a God of grace!) 

"Thank you Jesus for inviting us to worship you.  For loving our prayers and for the reassurance that worship and prayer can go together.  Wow God.  For me, much worship and prayer happens to music and I so thank you for the beautiful gifts you've given so many in leading music.  (and thank you for nice car trips where I can really let lose!)  When I'm still before you Lord, you move my inner being.  Thank you for the quiet times, when I can hear from you.  I continue to be amazed by you.  So today,we raise up holy hands, to praise the holy, who was and is, and is to come..."     

I'll pour my love on you...



So, the flu has been making it's way through our house, and today it stopped at me. Needless to say, I spent the day in 2 spots. One was a very comfy couch in our basement. (I won't divulge the other:-)


As I was weak and tired and struggling, God made it so clear to me what awesome kids I have, and how much they love me. Seriously, if I had the energy, I'd have been in tears.

The boys had early out Wednesday, and Caleb didn't want to go to his normal "sitter". He wanted to come home with me... cuz he didn't want me to have to be alone. So, he sat by me quietly and read. Wow! What an angel!

Then, Emma gets home. She was such a little mother. Honestly, I felt like one of her dollies and she just lavished love on me.

And after church Carter comes down and just holds me close. Asks me if I'm doing better.

You know, there are a lot of days when I think that I'm not doing such a great job as a mom. I get crabby over little things and yell to much, and, and, and...

Today, the love these 3 (and Tom!) lavished on me was so affirming. "Thank you God for blessing me with such a great family! Thank you that how they covered me with their love today is but a taste of the goodness and love that you have for me. Thank you, that even in the midst of the yucky's you can open my eyes to blessing. You are such an awesome Father!"

As far as reading goes, well.... I made 7 chapters. So, I'm going go finish in bed, and hopefully tomorrow morning will hold more strength... and a post from me!

For the love of Paul...

Oh... what a great day of reading. Today I covered Philippians, Colossians, and 1 Thessalonians. WOW...Wow...wow....


So, I can't chose just one thing that stuck out. And, because I seem to have been making up the rules as I go... I'm going to pick one from each Book.

Philippians 4:12-13
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

This verse always speaks to me, but especially at Christmas time it really hits home. You see, I have been in need. Big time. Like, couldn't afford to eat type of need. I remember rejoicing when my parents would have me out for dinner, and I remember my girlfriend Di having me to her house to eat. I'm not certain that anyone knew that I was likely not going to eat if they didn't call. (or maybe they did!) I wasn't starving, because I had a job that provided meals often during the day. I've come to realize their is a difference between hunger and starvation. I was just hungry (Praise God!) And... it was for a short period of time, just until I could get back on my feet... But it gave me perspective. It taught me not to judge. It has sunken into the core of who I am. (Like, I LOVE to shop at second hand stores!)

Right now, I am in a time of blessing. I have plenty. And I praise God for that. However, I also remember that he gives and takes away. Therefore, my identity is not in what I have, but in whose I am. I don't care where I live, as long as I have God and my family. For now, I'm emjoying my nice house... if tomorrow holds something different, then I'll praise God in the midst of it.

And then the infamous... "I can do all things through him who gives me strength." I am always surprised when I read the bible how we miss the context of so many verses. Don't get me wrong, I typically hear this in the right spirit. However, when you read it with what Pual was saying right before it, it has SOOOOO much more meaning.

Colossians 2:16-17
16 Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. 17 These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.

I literally wrote the words COMPEL next to this in my bible. You see, when planning the conference, it is so EASY to get hung up on the details. We sincerely want it to be a great conference. However, most of all, we want it to be founded on Christ. I have said this before, but we have such a great group of women on the leadership team. Prayer time with them is incredible and sincere. I praise God for that. So... the music may not be exactly what you are used to. You may not have the "perfect" meal. They may run out of coffee just when you go to fill your cup, or you may sit under a vent. HOWEVER, we've prayed and prayed and prayed and will continue to pray over this event. And I trust that Christ will be glorified. Lysa does an awesome job, and we're smothering her in prayer. That she may hear His voice and speak exactly what we need to hear. That is in His control. So... this is a good challenge for me. To not worry so much about what people "think" or if it appears to be all put together and buttoned up. God isn't into the details. He's into us...


1 Thesalonians 5:16-18
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Sometimes we just need a little reminder. Rejoice or be joyful always. Seriously God???? Ok girls, I'd love to tell you that this is what people say about me... you know that Jen, she is just always so cheerful and happy looking and always praising God... BUT.... I am the mom of 3 small children and 2 big children, the proud owner of 2 dogs (1 of which is on my very short list today:-)) and I can be down right crabby... unbearable even. AND... I love to pray... but, like all of us, I don't feel like I do it enough. The list could go on and on of my shortcomings. (Tom isn't home, or he'd maybe want to add to it:-)

However, I don't see this verse as a "correction" verse. I see it as a reminder. Whatever is going on in my day to day, God wants to use that. Perhaps it will turn into a story I use in one of my talks, perhaps it will help me help someone else at work, perhaps it will impact my family when the grow older, perhaps it will touch the life of someone who I don't even know... The point is, I am not in control of today, but I am in control of my choices. If I chose to look upward, no matter WHAT is going on in my "world", I will be reminded that God can use everything. And for that I can give him thanks, and be joyful!

I end tonight in prayer for my friend Lynn. She's in the office next door to me at ATLAS, and I've grown to appreciate her in so many ways. Tomorrow at noon she will undergo surgery to determine if she has liver cancer. "God, I pray that you would take these circumstances and use them for your glory. You know my heart would be for mis diagnosis and complete healing. However, I trust you in all circumstances God. Lynn is in need right now God. She needs your healing hand, and the peace that surpasses all understanding. At the same time God, let her have plenty. Plenty prayers, plenty faith, and plenty love. Block Satan in his attacks now Lord, that she may see you and you alone as she undergoes what might be one of the scariest days of her life tomorrow! Thanks for your promise that we should give thanks in all circumstances, for this is your will. May we give you thanks for this trial that Lynn is going through, and may we be obedient to the path laid out for us."

Pour your love on me...

Ok - I feel like I'm full of excuses, but... if any of you are mom's you will get what the end of a 4 day holiday weekend is like. Top it of with the twins waking in the middle of the night with the flu, and you'll get why I'm combining Sunday and Monday.


2 Cor. 9 - Gal. 5 - was Sunday

In Galatians 5:6 we read
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."

As a preface, remember that Paul is talking about circumcision, which was an outward sign of status and place. More so, he's talking about what I call religiosity. How by following the "religious law" we think we are earning our way into heaven, when in reality, many times it produces pride that separates us from God instead of drawing us closer to him.

So, this verse really says alot about how to draw closer to God... It's not by strict compliance to the law... It's by loving. Love your neighbor as yourself. When we love, we will naturally follow the law. God's spirit will guide us, and our decisions will reflect His love.


Gal 6 - Eph 6 - is today - Monday (and WHAT a Monday:-)) I actually didn't get 10 in, as I wanted to end at Ephesians and hold off on Philippians until tomorrow!

Eph 3:16-19
16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Continuing on with the "love" thoughts. If the spirit dwells in our inner being.... we can be rooted and established in love. But I still don't think that we get it. I think of the temple and the angels crying "Holy, Holy, Holy..." I think maybe, just maybe, they are truly beginning to grasp the love of Christ, and be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. I don't think that we as humans can even begin to imagine it. So when we think we're loving enough, when our pride gets in the way, when we think "well, I'm not going to get walked all over here," whenever we aren't focused on loving and showing love, it's because we can't yet grasp the fullness of God. We can't truly comprehend His "love." Although he may reveal himself to us more and more each day, until he comes again, I don't think we will truly understand.

"Father God... Thank you for your love for us. A love that we can't even phathom. God, I want to learn more about yoru love, so that I, in turn, can do a better job of loving others. Reveal yourself to me and give me wisdom and understanding. And then, help me to not be lazy, but to pour that love onto others. Help me to see clearly situations where you would pour your love out, and then give me the courage to just let it ooze out of me."

Feelin like a turkey...

So.... I feel like a turkey. Seriously, I haven't blogged since Monday!!! How can that be???

I have been steady at my reading, but getting to the computer and getting a blog done, well... it just didn't happen. I'm very sorry, please extend grace! Early in the week Emma had the flu, and then it was business with getting ready to cook Thanksgiving night. (which I totally LOVED doing!) At any rate, I missed out on the blogging. Good news is, like all of you, I'm human and fail, even when intentions are there!

Today, I'm deciding whether to catch up, or just post from today's reading...

Where have I been?
Tuesday - Acts 27 - Romans 8
Wednesday - Romans 9 - 1 Cor. 3
Thursday - My day of not reading this week:-)
Friday - 1 Cor 4 - 14

Oh, so much good stuff in all of these; but, I think I better just stick to today's verses - 1 Cor 15 - 2 Cor. 8

For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.
2 Corinthians 5:14

The word "compel" stuck out to me here. (Ok - so for obvious reasons!) Seriously - For Christ's love compels us... That is really what the Compel conference is all about. His love. Regardless of denomination and your stance on "such and such." We unite, because of His love. Because he died for each one of us individually... It's our prayer that we honor "God" in all we do at the conference.

"Father God, compel us... to do your will. May your love be our focus, and may it abound. We ask Lord that we may honor you. Make us dead to our old lives and alive in you. May our focus be only on sharing you with others!"

The Beach...

Ok - I'll get serious in a minute... But first.... (seriuosly... it's been freezing rain and icy all day, how could I not get stuck at the word "beach")








Acts 16 - 26... Within in these scriptures are the only mentions in the bible of one of my loves in life... The beach... (mentioned 3 times) More specific - praying at the beach! (Acts 21:5)



At least once a year (I'm spoiled, I know!) my husband indulges me and takes me to the beach. I can seriously lay there for hours singing and praying and lost in my own little world with God. Day after day! If I didn't have kids... I'm thinking it might be an issue!

now mind you, Paul is heading into a horribly dangerous situation (and the other 2 times it is mentioned, is in the midst of that situation). What becomes clear to me, is that he is answering God's call. When they prayed for him at the beach, it wasn't just for sunshine and warmth. It was for God to lead in a major sense of the word lead! As a vacationer, this evokes a sense of calmness and relaxation. For Paul, the beach was the calm before and during the storm, and prayers of protection were overflowing. As a simple Iowa girl, who only sees the beach on vacation, it's hard to imagine.

The other thing that sticks out to me in this verse is his intentional mention of women.

Acts 21:5
When it was time to leave, we left and continued on our way. All of them, including wives and children, accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray.

At various times throughout Acts, Paul is intentional about mentioning women. (Acts 16, 17,18, ...) Jesus also had these tendencies, to specifically mention women, so as to purpose their cause and place in society. They were always welcome, as were the children. Acts 21:9 - the four unmarried daughters who prophesied (thus indicating that women had their important place to take part in God's work.) are a bold statement for that time period. That they should receive directly from God!

I'd also be feeling bad if I didn't mention that the Simply Grace (Acts 20:24) is in this section. Testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

- Or the verse that we give to Tom every year for Christmas - 20:35 - "we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: "it is more blessed to give than to receive."

I could go on and on about these Chapters. For some reason, as I write this, the word "focus" is in my heart. So many of these verses are about where our focus is. (or is not...)

"God, I pray that you make give me clarity as I try to focus on you. Remove my distractions, my pride, my inequity, and just allow me to focus on you. Even in times of trial (which we know are coming!), may I stand firm like Paul, focus on you and your perfect will, and proclaim you boldly!"

Acts 5 - 15 is where we're at... Sorry for the lazy weekend. The kids had a swim meet on Saturday and Tom went to the Vikings/Packers game with Matt for his 21st Birthday, so I was busy being mom.... Got my reading done, but posting was another thing:-)

So.... I didn't pick just one verse from this portion of Acts. Instead, I'm loving all the verses that reference baptism and being filled with the Holy Spirit.

The go hand in hand in so many places. I praise God for his Holy Spirit. I know this can be a controversial issues, but it seems so clear to me in scripture. I can't imagine life without being filled with His Spirit. He blesses us in so many ways with his presence in and through us. WOW... I'd encourage each of you to re-read these sections for scripture and ask God to reveal himself in new ways. Be open minded and let him show you his goodness. He really is our best friend!

"Thank you Lord for being a triune God. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. You work in so many wonderful ways in our lives.. I ask that you continue to reveal yourself to me. As I draw close to you God, may you draw closer to me. I want to know you more. I want to experience your Holy Spirit working in my life more and for your glory. Rekindle the fire Lord..."

It is Finished...

Today my 10 chapers were John 17 - Acts 5


Much of what I read in John was the crucifixion of Jesus. This is the 4th gospel that I have read this in during my reading time, but for some reason, these words really stand out to me.

It's been a week of loss. Many dear people said "It is finished..." this week. My grandma's dear friend, Ruth Elliott. A dear lady that I worked with at Advance Brands - Marilyn Kruid, My great aunt, Teresa Pick, and sweet precious Jude Willem Kroeze, and then today, Matthews favorite cat Jax. My heart breaks for each of these families. Losing those we love can seem unbearable. I say it all the time, but... what would we do without faith.

So, "It is finished..." means something new to me this week. It means, the walk here on Earth is done. But... "it" hasn't yet begun. Our eternity in heaven, Jesus coming again to Earth and brining heaven with him... that has yet to begin. So... while we focus on the "end," I'm so glad that we know that we haven't even began eternity. And while what seems unbearable today for so many is hard, we get to have the assurance that because we believe that He died on that cross, that He defeated Satan, that He rose again and then ascended into heaven, we get to have life for forever. Life as we know it will end, but as always, God has big plans for us. Plans for eternity. We can't imagine his glory, but soon, (and if things keep up at the rate they were this week, sooner than we think:-) we will be with him and experiencing joy we can't even begin to imagine.

"Thank you Jesus. Thank you for obedience and for dying on the cross. Thanks for takin Satan, so that we can all "rise from the dead" into eternity! We are so unworthy of claiming the benefit of the suffering that you had. May we praise you and worhip you and may you find hearts full of love and gratitude. We know that for many this week, their present life ended. We pray supernatural peace for their families as they transition into the new day. And until the day comes, when you return and say the final "It is finished" may you find us seeking you and your will."

Take Heart...

aah.... what a day. I was able to snuggle with my Emma, walk on the treadmill while reading my bible, see my mom, my grandma, Carter's "special" Marty, and still watch the boys play games and read part of the bible to them. The prayer room via on the big screen... I got to share my viewpoints on heaven with my grandma, got to hug her in her struggles, as she bids a friend of over 60 years goodbye... As life goes... today was a good one! Praise God!

From my reading, I'm leaning towards the very end. We're on John 6 - 16, and I'm taking the last verse of John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Grandma, this one is for you... Jesus has overcome the world!!! AMEN, and AMEN, and AMEN. We don't have to worry about what heaven might look like, because we know that Jesus has prepared a place for us! We are his....

In John 16 he tells us that he wants us to have peace. Grandma, you will lose your best friend of more than 65 years... (and I will cry tears for you!) Your health will fail, you'll want to be with grandpa so bad that you can hardly endure what many of us look forward to every day.... Life is full of trouble. But.... take heart! Jesus died on the cross for our sins so that we could KNOW that we will have life in heaven (heaven on Earth when he returns!) Rest knowing that he has prepared a place, and that he LOVES us! He has good plans for us... He loves us more than we love ourselves....

Today, I need that reassurance... how about you????

"Jesus, thank you for the promise that you give us in life everlasting! You weave life together so perfectly. Teach us to love like you!"

The last supper...

I have always had a love for the last supper. I imagine sitting around the table with the greatest leader of all times. Being ordinary with him. I love to get to know people for who they are and just be natural with them. (Not one for all the formality and superficial stuff, as it's hard to get to know the real person!) I used to think that alot of this was formality. As I've gotten older, I see it more as an opportunity to see and get to know Jesus in a more personal "friendship" kind of way. While washing feet seems ceremonial to us, in Bible times it was totally natural. After all, they didn't walk around in Nike's! So I see that like us washing our hands before we eat, or going to the restroom before you get into the car (can you tell I have little kids:-)) It's just something you do!


But... how Jesus did it was amazing. With love and humility. Serving them. It's about the posture... He submitted himself. Time and again, I read this part of scripture and think - if only I could be a leader like that...

Anyway... today's verse is from this story...

John 13: 25-27
25 Leaning back against Jesus, he asked him, “Lord, who is it?”

26 Jesus answered, “It is the one to whom I will give this piece of bread when I have dipped it in the dish.” Then, dipping the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. 27 As soon as Judas took the bread, Satan entered into him.

For some reason this verse opened my eyes that Satan is really everywhere. Seriously - this was the last supper. And he entered into Judas there???? Just lurking and waiting to prompt with evil thoughts... It truly makes me sad. And, was Judas really that bad? Or that different from us?

HOWEVER, it also makes me rejoice that had itnot be for the Father's plan, Jesus wuold not have allowed this to happen. He KNEW it was going to happen, and mean his betrayal and death. He had the advantage of knowing the entire story! He knew, that he would soon rise from the dead after defeating this same Satan, bringing with him eternal life! So... in the big picture, this was an important piece for the plan.

So... I can be aware that Satan is really everywhere... But, I should be rejoicing that I don't have to worry about anything but listening to God. If I am close to him,

"Father God - thank you for the reassurance that your plan is always greater than ours. Today, as I watch 2 elderly women I deeply respected enter your kingdom of glory, and read updates about a young couple delivering their precious stillborn son, I can't help but to think how great it would be to know your greater plan. And yet, satan is always there. And he brings with him suffering and pain. but you bring peace. Not comfort... we will have troubles! But peace.... Jesus had the peace of knowing that Judas was key to the plan you had for him. May this passage give all peace, that you have a plan in all things, and are in control of all things. May we strive to be humble and lead like Jesus. Really God, who hands his betrayer bread and dines at the table with him, and washes his feet? - only a humble leader! I want more of you. More humility."

Those Eyes...

Today... Luke 20 - John 6


Luke 22:61 - The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter.

So, those words alone aren't so profound. However, in context, they are bone chilling. You see, Jesus had predicted Peter's denial. Jesus was the only apostle that was daring enough to stay close to Jesus when they arrested him. Yeah Peter! but then it happened.... 3 times he denied him. Imagine these eyes turning to you after your third time denying him...




I read this and I thought to myself... Sitting here, it's easy to think - wow Peter, he told you what would happen and you still fell prey to Satan. But, seriously, what makes me think I would be any different. I've been convicted alot lately about fear of man. Not fear of death, but just what they will think of me. So, who am I to scoff Peter... He was fearful of death. I, on the other hand, hold back at times, because I'm afraid of offending others, or of what they will think.... Convicting!

"Lord, I ask that I would have the courage to ALWAYS acknowledge you. Even if that means embarassment. Remove my pride and help me to walk firm in your directions. Guide my steps and give me wisdom and boldness!"

Given Much...

So, I'm posting early today because I got sleepy last night!


Yesterday was Luke 9 - 19.

There were so many good stories in this section, that it is hard to chose just one to write about. I flipped through again, and here is where I'm pondering today...

Luke 12:47-48

47 “The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows. 48 But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.

To put it in context.. Jesus is telling the parable about putting the manager in charge of the servants for their food allowance, and that it is wise to find him doing so when he returns. (and that he is coming when we don't expect him)

You see, I had heard this verse often over the years. To him who has been given much... However, it was always in the context of earthly things. You know, Food, housing, money, etc. All material things. And we were to share that... ok - got it.

Now as I read it, I think HOLD ON.... In it's full context, I read it to mean so much more! (Those of you who are bible wise can roll your eyes at me, it's ok... I'm thinking I might be a little slow in getting this one!)

The servant who knows his masters will - That's us, knowing God's will. How do we do that? Get into his word. If we don't know his will - the punishment will be less. This makes me think of His grace. And the day of righteousness. I think abut my kids. If they do something wrong, knowing that it is against the rules, I tend to be more severe with their punishment. However, if they do something wrong, and really didn't know that it was wrong (mind you, Emma claims this alot at the age of 4!) leniency is in order. A word I've used is "willfully disobedient" I also think that because He knows the condition of our heart, grace is applied.

So, if you have been given much, much will be demanded. Yes, earthly blessings probably fall into here. However, I'm thinking about the spiritual gifts that he gives us, along with his word. If he gives you the gift of wisdom, and you don't use it to help others understand, what have you done with the gift he has given you. Perhaps you have the gift of teaching, but you say... Lord I'm too busy, let someone else do it... Or maybe your an intercessor, and yet find yourself saying, Lord I'm too busy to pray. If you're a believer, he has given you gifts. Discover them, walk into them, and use them! To whom much is given, much will be demanded. WHAT A PRIVELAGE. To use your gifts from God for His glory.

So... as I ponder this from a "knowing his will" perspective... We have all (likely) been given a bible. We have the ability to "know his will." With out the Holy Spirit, it may be scary to hear, the more you know of your bible, the more is expected of you! However, because of the Holy Spirit, the mroe we know, the more hungry we will be for it. And the expectations will be considered pure joy!

I firmly believe that I'm in a season of life that God is showing me more of "His will" so that I am able to be asked. I also know that their is SO MUCH more knowledge that I haven't tapped into. We can never know him completely! Wow...

My hometown...

Aaahhh.. the Lord's day!  I love a day of rest! 
Day 6...
Today's reading was Mark 15 - Luke 8.

I paused at Luke 4:24-27

   ²⁴ “Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown. ²⁵ I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah’s time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land. ²⁶ Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the region of Sidon. ²⁷ And there were many in Israel with leprosy^[a] in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.”


Two things stick out to me.  First, that a prophet is not accepted in his hometown.   I guess because we are human and judgemental.  AND because no one is without sin.  It's easy to go to another town and "appear" to be a bit more "cleansed".  However, in our home town, everyone knows our "garbage".  They know our story, good and bad.  Therefore, it's harder for them to accept us for who we are in Christ.  Hmmm.....  Somehow, I'm left thinking that I'm on both the giving and receiving end of this one!

And then, the widow at Zarephath.  Honestly, I didn't even know she was mentioned here!  The perspective this lends, adds to some work I've done lately about how God "goes out of his way" to bless.  (especially women)  Several times Jesus traveled out of his way to intentionally bless someone.  But I hadn't thought about Elijah doing that...  For now, I'll stay the course of my reading, but you can bet that I'm heading back to Elijah's days to see if there are other spots like this one!  Don't get the point wrong here.  I think he's really trying to say that Elijah didn't receive an open welcome in his town to bless people, so God sent him away during the famine.  

Not so sure I'm getting my thoughts across clearly tonight!  Sorry if I caused more confusion than doing good!  Must be because my brain was at rest today! 

Lysa is coming... the billboard...

Ok - One more exciting thing about the conference. 

We are going to try a billboard.  Many times when talking with women of the area, they have never heard of COMPEL... SO, we're putting up a billboard along I-29.  (By the Floyd Monument going North for those of you from Sioux City!)

This is a first for us, and we're nervous, as the money isn't necessarily in the budget.  However, we feel like God is nudging us, and that he will provide.  Perhaps just one will come from the sign.  One that needs to be still in his presence, one that doesn't know him, one that...  (who knows!)

So... if you're from Sioux City, or passing through... Be on the lookout!!   And... certainly be in prayer for the women making decision on whether to come! 


 

Prayer ...

So... grace is in order for my Friday post. You see, I had the chance to spend the day, yes, the entire day in prayer. Thanks so much to my friend Shery for organizing an incredible day to pray, worship, and read God's word. WOW....

In Nehemiah 9:3 we read...

They stood in their places and confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors. 3 They stood where they were and read from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God for a quarter of the day, and spent another quarter in confession and in worshiping the LORD their God.

So 6 hours of the "Law" and 6 hours of confession and worshipping... (OK - I didn't get 6 of each, but I got close, totaling 9 :-) I'm still processing the glory of it, and how he whispered to me! I'm also anticipating that as I listen, he'll draw nearer... (Can you sense my excitement???)

I count it a blessing to have a husband who is so supportive. The kids didn't have school and it was his birthday, but he counted it a blessing to be able to spend the day alone with them. Said it was one of his best birthdays! We met up with Kendra, Kris and Matt in Sioux Falls, and had our entire family around the dinner table to celebrate!

SO.... my Friday post, is now my Saturday post. And guess what.... It has to do with prayer. (Did you smile?)

Today we're on Mark 4-14....

In Mark 11:17 Jesus had entered the temple and saw many buying and selling. And he got upset... overturning tables and benches... and he said...

Is it not written: "My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations."

As I reflect on "his house", I'm reminded of the modern day church. It's been on my heart for SO long that we don't pray enough in all of our churches. Prayer meetings are seen as boring and not attended, or at times obligatory, but not entered with a heart prepared to seek the Lord.

I want not just my house, but every house to be called a temple of prayer. My church house, and the home I'm raising my kids in, and anywhere else that prayer is offered up! I want it for ALL nations. Not just for my little comfort zone here in Northwest Iowa, but for ALL nations. Those that face persecution get it at times. Their hearts are so hungry when they enter into prayer. Because I have it easy, many times I fear that I don't apperciate it for the blessing that it is. What does a true house of prayer look like?

I envision it (now, keep in mind, this is one women's interpretation) being non-stop. That everything I do has a spirit of prayer over it. As I'm pouring my kids cereal, at the office, driving them to activities, etc. For each step of my day, my God feel and hear my prayers.

I have a cool story from yesterday...


I was in Sioux City, so Tom, little kids, and Matt drove to Sioux Falls, and I met them there. I had talked to them on the phone, and as soon as I hung up, I felt this strong sense that I should pray for their safety. (5 of the 7 of my family in one car without me...) So, as I drove and worshipped I pleaded for their safe travel.

Later, Tom told me that they had nearly been in a bad accident. Apparently some kid was texting and was all the way over on their side of the road, with no place for them to go because it dropped of... He looked up for just a second and was able to correct just before he hit them...

Now, I don't know that this was right when I was praying, but I do believe that God put it on my heart for a reason. I'm so thankful that I was obedient to his prompting!

Today, I'm inspired to pray. To embrace my God in the way he's asked us to...

Fleeing...

Day 3- we're on Mattthew 21 - Mark 3...





Ok - so it's a cartoon... but, to me, it's the modern day version of the disciples fleeing from Jesus.  In Matthew 26:56b  we read.. "Then all the disciples deserted him and fled."  This is right after he is betrayed and is being captured.  help but think of the he disciples fled...  persecution taht we anticipate in the end times.  T

The disciples deserted him...  The same people he walked with and talked with.  He loved them.  He wept over them.  And they DESERTED HIM....  Fear of man...  And I wonder why I have it!  As I read this, I couldn't help but to think of this as we consider the persecution of the end times.  Seriously, the disciples fled...  What makes me think that should the end come today that I would be strong enough in my faith to stand firm? 

A bit later we read about Peter - who follow him at a distance.  Now, Jesus had told him that he would deny him 3 times (and he did).  But, at best, he was able to follow him in the distance.  (So much for living boldly huh?) 

OK - so sarcasim aside, this portion of scripture convicted me that I always need to pressing in to know him more.  If I want to be prepared for persecution, I MUST continue to know him better.  (So that I don't flee!) 

"Father God...  create in me a devoted heart.  Help me to stand by you, regardless of the circumstances.  I'm reminded tonight of students being shot at Columbine, Colorado for standing up to you.  While we may think that we'd be that brave, God I ask that you continue to challenge me to draw closer to you.  May I not get lazy in "thinking" that I'm ok with you and may I continue to be hungry for more.  I don't want to deny you even once Lord...  Give me a pure heart for you and you alone!"

My Heart...

So... it's day two of my 30 day bible reading challenge.

Today, I'm stuck on the condition of my heart.



In Matthew 15:8-9

"These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.

They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men."


WOW.... does that speak to me. It is the desire of my heart, the it would be close to God. Yet I know, that at times I am only honoring him with my lips, while my heart is cold and hard.

And my worship??? Well, it seems that at times it depends on where I am. For me, lately, church has been one of the more restricted places of worship. Totally fear of man! I'm letting the rules taught by men limit my worship for him in his house.... Ugh!!! I want to worship with reckless abandon and let my heart seek him completely, regardless of where I am!

"God... give me the confidence to loosen the fear of man. May I seek you and your approval alone. It's so easy to say here, sitting at my computer, sipping on my Diet Coke. But God, why do I make it so hard when I'm out in the world.... Nudge me when I'm letting the world get the best of me. I want my worship and my heart, everything about me to reflect more of you!"

Wanna read the BIBLE????

I LOVE A CHALLENGE!!!  How about you... Well, if so, have I got one for you!


It started last night when I was driving to Sioux City for a Compel meeting. I was listening to some teaching on my IPOD, and was totally reviatlized!

The speaker hit on some things that totally spoke to me. The one that I'm SO excited about was a challenge in reading our bibles. He talked about how most people, if you asked them would say that they read the bible. But, if you dug deeper, we would see that the "thought" of reading the bible is more prevalent than actually reading it. He challenged to spend 1 hour a day reading it. (Seriously, I know I have that time in my day, I just need to prioritize it!)

But then he hit on what REALLY got me going... Did you know that if you read:

10 Chapters a day
6 Days a week
For 1 month....

YOU WILL HAVE READ THE ENTIRE NEW TESTAMENT!!!!

You see, when I read my bible, I always feel like I'm wandering here and there. Hunting and pecking.... As I read, I'm either looking for something specific, or I feel like I'm not hitting on what I'm suppose to be (For the most part... at times, I get delightfully surprised!)

SO.... the thought of a one month plan to read through is awesome to me. 10 chapters is totally doable!

Now.... don't get me wrong. I'm not talking about just reading words on the page to say I've got my reading done. He challenged me to pray prior to even opening the bible. God, guide me as I read and highlight what it is that you have for me. Reveal to me what you would speak to me today, with where I am in my life..." (I think you get what I'm saying!)

SO.... I'm embarking on this journey (as of last night!) DOES ANYONE WANT TO JOIN ME????

I would love to have you join me in reading and posting. My plan is to post here. Each day I will share what particular thing God highlighted for me that day. Then, I'd LOVE for you to share your comments, or just ask for accountability. When we're done, we'll have an awesome log of how God was speaking to us in the New Testament. For such a time as this! It will be great prep for our conference in January! 

I'd LOVE to hear from you! (and know that you're there to hold me accountable if nothing else!)

So.... Here goes...

Day 1 - Matthew Ch. 1-10

I was worried as I read that I wasn't going to have anything to write on the first day! Then I got to Matthew 10:37-39 -

"Anyone who loves his father or mother mroe than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and he whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."

WOW..... As a mom, this hit at the heart level. In my mind, I know that my priorities should be 1)God, 2) Family, and 3) work.... Lots of times in my life I had this order messed up (with work as #1) But... if I really check my heart.... I think there are MANY times, when I love my kids more than I think I love God. They are precious to me, and I will drop almost anything to be there for them. To make them smile, and hear them giggle. I've always known that god wants that from me. But.... as I read this, it really stuck out that God says we're not worthy of him.... Thank heavens we have a gracious God! But.... this to me was a great reminder of how we should prioritize. He wants me to be a good mom. BUT.... I will be the best mom I can be if I let him come first and be my center....

"God, I pray that you'll give me gentle reminders of how to prioritize my life. Help me Lord to put you as my first love. You are so good, and gracious! May I find renewed energy and zeal for more and more of you!"

Jen

Come One... Come all... Calling ALL Girlfriends..

So.... Registration is officially open on line....  Woo-Hoo!!!  We're already praying for those of you who will attend!  For those of you who will invite a friend, or perhaps a stranger.  I have a sense that God is going to work in incredible ways this year (Doesn't he always!)  Get signed up early!  We're REALLY trying to encourage early sign up to help us with our planning! 

ALSO.... We're considering doing a weekly blog book study from "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl."  Are you interested?  Would you forward this blog to some of your friends so that they could participate?  Please leave us a comment so we know you're out there and looking at us!  More to come as we get ready to "Be Still and Know that HE is God!" 

Working on it....

Hello all -

Just a quick note to let you all know that we are working hard at getting registration open.  Right now you will get an error message after getting mostly through registration.  Hoping this will be resolved within the next day or two, and then we can start to see which friends will be joining us in January! 

It's getting closer...

So, time is flying by, and January is getting closer!  I'm likely the only person in their right mind that would say, "I can't wait until January!!!"  Needless to say, I'm excited for Lysa to be here in person.

For those of you who have an interest in Lysa, I have been trying to encourage many churches and women's ministries to go through her study - "Becoming more than a good bible study girl."  This is a 6 week (Which would easily be 12 weeks) DVD study.   I think for many of us, it will be awesome to work through one of her studies and then meet her in person.

So, if you have any influence in what material you use, I'd strongly encourage you to give this a try.  It's good practical stuff that you can use to put your faith into your everyday life!  You can e-mail me at tjensand@mtcnet.net and I'd be happy to help you out with details.  The study is available on the Proverbs 31 site and Lysa's site! 

Until next time...  :-) 

Jen

Preparring for Compel 2011 - January 21 & 22

Hello Everyone in Blog Land! 

We are making Preparations for Compel 2011 and are getting more and more excited about our speaker - Lysa TerKeurst presdient of Proverb s 31 Ministries.  Check out their site at http://www.proverbs31.org/.  You can get to Lysa's blog at the top right of this site (she's quite funny!).  Lysa also has brief radio spots on Bott radio (103.3) and Life 96.5.  You can also hear it online at http://www.oneplace.com/Ministries/Proverbs_31/

You can also check out her books.  "Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl" and a new one called "Am I messing up my Kids."  I (Jen) have had the opportunity to hear Lysa at the "She Speaks" Conference and knows that she will inspire many! 

More info to come, but we wanted you to start to join us in our excitement to welcome Lysa in Sioux City. 


 

Come see us!

Hello everyone1  I got a bit lax on this since the conference!  I justwanted to drop you all a quick note and let you know that Shery, Jen and Shawn are speaking at the Sunnybrook get real conference.  I'm guessing you can still register!  Check out sunnybrookchruch.org for information! 

Compel 2010

WOW!!!  What a weekend!  Ladies, I am trusting that you were blessed as much as I was this weekend! 

Today I am filled with peace.  Joanna moved me and made me laugh.  More importantly, she made me think.  Where am I still holding things?  I am praying for new revelation of the things that I'm not realizing that I'm holding on to.  I am also praying that happens in each of you in the weeks to come.  This life we live is a process.  (Praise God!)  I want to process this piece completely.  I want to work through it over the next few months; not just say well that was good and move forward. 

I encourage each of you to share with us through your comments on this blog or via e-mail.  We'd love to support and help you process.  That is what the sense of commnity is all about! 

I want to savor this year, before we move onto next year.   Will you do so with me? 

BE NEAR...

Lysa Terkeurst, president of Proverbs 31 Ministries had this on her blog today.  It was a reminder of prayer, and of our theme of nearness.  How can we feel near to those miles away?  Yet our heart is torn and aching for these people.  I sit and watch the news of Haiti and want so much to help.  My heart breaks and my tummy churns. 

Be Near

Each time I turn on the TV, my heart is stirred like I'm sure yours is with the tragedies being experienced in Haiti. My heart stirs and I wish I could get on a plane headed there right now. I want to help get food and medical attention to those who need it right now. I want to speak hope into the bleak realities right now.

But at the same time I feel paralyzed right now.

The situation feels beyond me. Chaotic. Overwhelming.

I can send money and I will. But is that enough? As a Jesus girl, is that really enough?

I guess the thing that tugs- rips- at my heart is the strong correlation between what these precious people are facing and what my two sons lived for many years. It's hard for me to see the kids starving, confused, hurting, and helpless. During the civil war in Liberia, that's the way my boys lived.

My boys.

The ones I care for, love, buy Christmas presents for, plan their birthdays, and make sure they go to the doctor for even the slightest ailment.

But there were years before I met them where they were in desperate need while I sat paralyzed in oblivion here in a land flowing with provision. It's not that I didn't care. It's that I didn't know how to care. The orphan problem in Africa seemed so big. So beyond me. Overwhelming. Chaotic.

I felt small. Insignificant. Helpless to make any real difference.

I sent money. I sent a few Christmas shoe boxes. But the orphan problem was a far removed social issue for other people to handle. Until.

Until that far removed social issue came to stand in my kitchen one day. Two boys. Two boys who put a face with real tears on this issue and ruined me for good in the best kind of way.

I don't know what my assignment will be for Haiti. But I know there is one.

Knowing this, compels me to do what I can do for today while I let tomorrow's assignment unfold and make its way to me. I'm not going to manipulate this assignment or rush ahead of where I'm supposed to go. I'm simply going to lift up my willingness and watch with eyes wide open to see where God directs.

In the meantime, I am praying for specific people whose names I may never know. I am asking God to put a person on my heart each day and let that be my assignment. Until I know what to do, I am committed to be... be available, be aware, be faithful to pray.

Right now I am praying for that young man sitting on the side of the road wondering if anyone in the world is thinking or caring about him.

God, let him feel a rush of hope right this second. God, let him see the next thread of hope to cling to. God, help him to hear of place he might go today to get food and medical attention. God, be near to this young man on the side of the road.

Be near.

What do you feel called to do? How do you feel called to be? Please share.

Hoe Does God Talk to You?

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.  - John 10:27

I have been looking through Joanna's book again, getting ready for the conference.  This part stuck out to me, and I thought I would ask you to ponder it in preparation for the conference. 

While we know God speaks clearly to us though the Bible, many of us are unceratin how to hear God's voice in our spirit. "How does God speak to you?" someone asked the aurthor and speaker Carole Mayhall.  I have found her answer immensely practical and helpful: 

For me, He speaks by a distinct impression in my heart.  He's never spoken to me aloud, but smpoetimes the thought that he puts in my soul is so vivid that He might as well have!  Many times it is just a thougth or an idea that flashes into my mind and I know it is from Him...

Sometimes a thought pops into my mind - a thought so different from what I was thinking, or so creative I never woul dhave thought of it, or opposite to what I wanted God to say to me.  When that happens - and it lines up with God's Word - I know I've heard His voice in a distinctive way...

I pray frequently that I will hear His voice more often and more clearly.  When I don't I know He hasn't stopped speaking; rather, I have stopped listening. 

Wow - certainly made me sit down and reevaluate!  I praise God and continue to pray that He would give me eyes to see, give me ears to hear, and give me lips to Speak his will! 

Girl Time - Fellowship

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

                                                        1 John 1:7

Oh...... how sweet is fellowship.  True fellowship.  It makes me just smile and sigh at the same time. 

I had the opportunity to have coffee tonight with a dear new friend.  As we learned more about each other, my heart was so touched by how God can bring people together.  Our circumstances and lives and stories are so similar.  I have lived in this small town for nearly 11 years and am just now connecting with someone who shares so many exciting things.  Most of all, a love and passion for Jesus and for prayer and for the poor, and fellow believers.  I thank God for our time together and look forward to many more. 
This time together also made me think about each woman who is considering signing up for the Compel Conference.  The time of fellowship they will have whether they come alone and meet new people, or come with a group of girlfriends and enjoy the time together.  As women, many of us long for dear, sweet relationships and connections.  I know that I made one last year at Compel, and am looking forward to seeing what God has in store for me this year!  In my efforts to draw near to him, wanting him to become my best friend - I mean really, not just to say that! For REAL best friend - like the first person I think about.... 

Will he bless me with new friends to know and love and pray for?  I'm certain that he will.  You too....  if you open your heart to him, and to new encounters.... 

Looking forward to "girl" time!  Next weekend!!  Can't wait!!!  See you all then!!!  (OK - so you get what I'm asking for? - sing up if you haven't already!)

For He is Good!

Last night we prayed over the conference.  God was there with us and He is sooooo Goood......  As you prepare for the conference, it is my prayer that He is good to you.  Sign up now!  We are anxious to pray for you by name!  He is going to do great things! 

Can't wait to see you then!