Change

I am a huge fan and advocate of change; in fact often I have taught that a rut is simply a grave. However, of late I have dwelt much in my private meditations on the subject of change. I realize that many things change and we can either move in some areas of our lives or we will be left behind.

Many people don’t deal well with change. In fact many people are insecure and change creates imbalance. Others are fearful and the slightest change creates trauma. Then there are those who thrive on change. These people change for change sake even if the change moves them to a negative or backwards position. Surely there is balance in all of these people.

Change means different from what it is or from what it would be if left alone. Analyzing the definition of the word change causes me to think deeply. While I agree many things in life needs to change, other times it simply does not matter if things are changed or remain the same, and some things must never change. Some things are simply not negotiable.

In a world that is bombarded with the ideology of tolerance are we instilling in our young people the importance of standing firm being unmovable, unchangeable in the areas of Biblical truths? I know some of the older generation fuss about new music. Honestly I could care less if we are singing “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” or “I am a Friend of God”, “How Great is our God” or “How Great Thou Art” Both the old version and the new version are proclaiming the same message. What matters to me is the position of the singer or the musician. The style may change but the position of a submitted singer or musician to God must never change.

My meditations have brought me to a particular conclusion long before a person changes he sets his eyes in a different position. Unfortunately I have known people with a change of position in their marriage. Long before the marital status changes from married to separated or divorced one can change his/her direction of the eye. If that direction changes it isn’t long before the marital status changes. After the eye begins to behold things differently, new friendships or relationships are formed. I have observed similar take place in a spiritual realm. The eye sees things different then relationships change.

Now I’m filled with new questions having resolved the aforementioned conclusions. If a person keeps his eyes on God would he be interested in changing? If a person keeps his eyes on God rather than others would he endeavor to rationalize what’s wrong with some things or would he just leave well enough alone and not struggle with making changes? If we keep our eyes on God would we spend more time on outreach rather than trying to find ways to ‘change safely’? I’ve lived long enough to realize naturally change occurs. We really don’t need to try to facilitate it. In fact I have discovered too often we have to struggle to take things back to its original state rather than find creative innovative ways to change.

Proverbs 22:28 (The Message) Don't stealthily move back the boundary lines staked out long ago by your ancestors.

I believe it is important that we realize the Devil is seeking whom he may devour and a stealthily (quiet, caution, secret) change of boundaries staked out by our ancestors can be a way he is attacking the church today.

Today I am determined more than ever before to pray for every young person possessing any degree of leadership. I am committing more time in prayer including praying the word for my three children this week. Additionally, I will call the name of every preacher’s kid and young minister I know. I don’t want something as valuable as change to create a negative change to move these precious people from the position of being the dynamic powerful leaders God intends them to be. I appreciate the changing of the guard to a younger generation.

CUPC is blessed to have a church full of young people in positions of nursery workers to ushers to musicians to praise singers to bus workers to teachers. I appreciate the youthful change their leadership brings however I do not want them to change Biblical truths including those of salvation and holiness.

My Valentine

This year marks my 28th Valentine's to be in love with my best friend, my husband, my pastor, an incredible Dad, an awesome father-in-law, a loyal son, a great son-in-law, a friend to many, a mentor, a Godly man, but I am glad he is my Valentine.

The past 28 years have given me many memories. We have shared many wonderful times together and have braved storms together. Kent is an optimist, a man of faith, and a visionary, full of humor, loving, compassionate, and dedicated.

Today he sent me an email with the following words: “The reservation is set for 6:30Friday nite. You might wanta dress up. Mysterious and romantic!!!!!!!! I love you” He loves surprising me. The greatest gift we give to one another is ourselves. There's absolutely nothing more important to me than Kent. I LOVE him...

I LOVE my Valentine of 28 years. I truly love him more today than ever. He's my boyfriend.....I LOVE him!

In Honor of Valentines Month – Romans 12:10

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; (KJV)

Be devoted to each other like a loving family. Excel in showing respect for each other. (God's Word Translation)

The professed love of Christians to each other should be sincere, free from deceit, and deceitful compliments. Our duty towards one another is summed up in one word, love. Kindness cannot be expressed to friends and family only. A Christian will not harbor anger against enemies. Christians bless rather than curse those despitefully use them or those who have had occasion to disagree. Blessing does not mean pray for the person and then curse them with actions or hurtful and hateful thoughts or words. It is impossible to both bless and curse. This can only be done in hypocrisy.

A very noticeable symptom of unkindness or lack of love is jealousy or competition. It is impossible to compete or be jealous if we love. These negative symptoms reveal a missing ingredient - a heart filled with love. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love - 1 John 4:8 (NIV)

If God resides in our lives it is impossible to not love everyone. God is either present or He is absent. It is impossible to have hidden places within our heart where we don't love some people. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. (Titus 3:4-5) With God operating in us we will show the same mercy, love, and kindness. It doesn’t matter how others treat us today, treated us in the past, or wronged us. We are never justified in our actions of being rude, short, ugly, or unkind. We will show love and mercy and be kind if God is living within.

God, please dwell in my heart that I may show love and kindness to all!

Seeking Answers...Numbers 9:8

I have had opportunity to talk with 7 and possibly more persons the past couple of weeks who were seeking answers. Each of these persons articulated their discussions differently but ultimately each were discussing the same point. They have been praying about direction, wisdom, guidance, answers, the will of God, or the call of God. What a complex subject!

Does one really hear the voice of God? How do I know what God is saying? How am I sure this is from God? I feel God is wanting me to do this so do I need to begin doing so and so. What a whirlwind of emotions follow!

As a pastor or pastor's wife the last thing we want to do is misguide someone. I find these times like wading off in the deep yet not being a very good swimmer. I can swim enough to stay afloat yet I am not an accomplished swimmer. In fact I am better at floating and dog paddling. How will I survive the deep?

Today I have lunch with a wonderful young lady needing answers. She isn't looking to me for the answer rather looking to me to facilitate her finding answers. I never take such meetings times lightly. I marvel at the times people want to talk with us about finding answers and God begins nudging my spirit.

Last night was a sleepless night for me. Finally I thought of a couple of words. I wasn't sure if God was giving me these words for me or for those I will endeavor to help -"BE STILL". Upon searching I began to read Numbers 9:8.

As I read Number 9:8 from several translations the Word of God was illumninated to me in a most powerful way.

New International Version (©1984)
Moses answered them, "Wait until I find out what the LORD commands concerning you."

New Living Translation (©2007)
Moses answered, "Wait here until I have received instructions for you from the LORD."

English Standard Version (©2001)
And Moses said to them, “Wait, that I may hear what the LORD will command concerning you.”

New American Standard Bible (©1995)
Moses therefore said to them, "Wait, and I will listen to what the LORD will command concerning you."

GOD'S WORD® Translation (©1995)
Moses answered them, "Wait here until I find out what the LORD commands you to do."

King James Bible
And Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the LORD will command concerning you.

American King James Version
And Moses said to them, Stand still, and I will hear what the LORD will command concerning you.

American Standard Version
And Moses said unto them, Stay ye, that I may hear what Jehovah will command concerning you.

Bible in Basic English
And Moses said to them, Do nothing till the Lord gives me directions about you.

Douay-Rheims Bible
And Moses answered them: Stay that I may consult the Lord what he will ordain concerning you.

Darby Bible Translation
And Moses said to them, Stay, and I will hear what Jehovah commands concerning you.

English Revised Version
And Moses said unto them, Stay ye; that I may hear what the LORD will command concerning you.

Webster's Bible Translation
And Moses said to them, Stand still, and I will hear what the LORD will command concerning you.

World English Bible
Moses answered them, "Wait, that I may hear what Yahweh will command concerning you."

Young's Literal Translation
And Moses saith unto them, 'Stand ye, and I hear what Jehovah hath commanded concerning you.'

Moses was obviously in conversation and he asked them to stand or wait until he heard from God concerning them. Something leaped from reading these translations...(I guess I needed to read the many translations for it to sink!) Moses was confident that he would hear from God for the people. They needed to be patient and wait until he heard the commandments or direction concerning them.

Often people have questions or feel God calling or leading and want to do something immediately. I recognize a few powerful things in this verse. They discussed with the leader their concerns, the leader took authority and asked them to wait, Moses KNEW he would get clarity on the matter.

This also puts an incredible amount of pressure on leaders to handle people's affairs very carefully. Honestly, Kent and I have failed miserably in this scripture. Too often when people have approached us we allow our "Open Door" policy to hinder. I wonder if we said "Wait" what would be the outcome. Are people willing to submit and wait? All to often people approach their leaders with their minds made up. Of course then there are times like today when a sweet lady is tearful begging for help. She has prayed and isn't sure what God is saying.

God, help me to stay focused on you. I believe thru submission to You all things can be accomplished in the lives of those we are charged to lead.

You are My Shield

I will bless the Lord forever,
And I will trust Him at all times.
He has delivered me from all things,
And He has set my feet upon the Rock.

I will not be moved, and I'll say of the Lord:
You are my Shield, my Strength, my Portion, Deliverer,
My Shelter, Strong Tower, my very present help in time of need.

Whom have I in Heaven but you.
There's no one I desire beside You.

You have made me glad, and I'll say of the Lord:
You are my Shield, my Strength, my Portion, Deliverer,
My Shelter, Strong Tower, my very present help in time of need.

My very present help in time of need.

My very present help in time of need.

Walking in the Midst of the Storm

"And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water." Matthew 14:28

Jesus responded and Peter walked on the water for a while. Then he began to look at the boisterous winds around him. When he did, he began to sink. Then Peter cried out to Jesus to save him.

Peter had the faith to call out to Jesus and ask Him to let him come to Him, and at Jesus' word He stepped out onto the water. When Peter began to sink, he had the faith to call out to Jesus to save him. Peter did not have the same faith in Jesus when he looked at the "storm" around him. We, like Peter, have faith in the Lord to step into the water when we get in trouble. When we begin to sink we have faith in Him to save us. It seems our trouble comes in the "middle" of the storm. That's when we have trouble believing and trusting Him. I trust Him to get me out there, I trust Him to save me when I sink, but can I trust Him when I'm in the storm raging all around me? Do I have the faith to believe that He can keep me afloat? Do I forget Who is with me on the stormy sea?

When Peter was sinking, Jesus asked him why he doubted. In other words...why did you doubt that I would take care of you while you were out here? We must learn to trust Him while we are in the boat, when we take that first step out of the boat, when we are sinking... and while we are going through "boisterous" times.

I've Been Through Enough

I woke up from a long afternoon nap with the following song rolling in my head. It ministered to me and maybe it will minister to you, too. Enjoy!

When I first began to walk with the Lord,
I did not really trust Him,
How He longed for me to understand that I could
So thru the valley, He lead me, afraid as I could be,
Until I felt His loving arms, embracing me

I've been through enough to know, He'll be enough for me
He's come through too many times
That puts my mind at ease, for good
I'll stake my very life, He's gonna take care of me,
Cause I've been through enough to know, He'll be enough for me

How could I ever doubt a God whose hands hold the universe,
Why would I ever question His ability,
There's no place that I can go, where He doesn't know,
The things that trouble me
He's always aware of where I am and what I need

I believe Him now, after all these years,
He's been so faithful He's proven to be true,
Nevermore will I doubt or question why
Cause I've seen them all before and I know what God can do

I've been through enough to know, He'll be enough for me
He's come through too many times
That puts my mind at ease, for good
I'll stake my very life He's gonna take care of me,
Cause I've been through enough to know, He'll be enough for me

Encouraging Scriptures

“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah. Psalm 46:1-3,7

‘Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ Isaiah 41:10

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. 2 Tim 1:7 (AMP)

I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Psalm 16:8 (AMP)

Cast your burden on the Lord [releasing the weight of it] and He will sustain you; He will never allow the [consistently] righteous to be moved (made to slip, fall, or fail). Psalm 55:22 (AMP)

He only is my Rock and my Salvation; He is my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be moved. Psalm 62:6 (AMP)

Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. 1 Peter 5:7 (AMP)

The Lord is good, a Strength and Stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows (recognizes, has knowledge of, and understands) those who take refuge and trust in Him. Nahum 1:7 (AMP)

“The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3

Ministry: What it has encompassed for me

Wanted: Adult female to serve without pay. Must be able to function without complaint as secretary, music director, nursery worker, janitor, auxiliary president and fund-raiser. On call 24 hours a day. Cooking abilities a plus. Good sense of humor helpful.

In many churches, this is the unpublished job description of the pastor's wife--perhaps the only profession that has no real job description but is deemed vital to her husband's success. Lawyers do not depend on their wives to defend clients. Doctors don't need their wives in the operating room. But in many churches, a pastor needs his wife in the ministry.

-- The Baptist Standard

In our early days of ministry often I was asked "Do you sing?" Then "Do you play the organ?" Since I did neither an awkward moment of silence followed. The pastor or pastor's wife asking grew quiet. I wasn't certain the reason for the awkwardness. Was it they couldn't believe I wasn't going to woo the crowd before my husband preached; or did they expect me draw people to the altar at the close of his message if his preaching atempts failed. Finally, God inspired me or I became brave probably the later. I began to replace the awkward moment of silence with "I don't do either but normally I pray and worship".

From the very begining I felt that I was apart of Kent's team. Never once did I feel I wasn't wanted, needed, or have anything to contribute. My role was much different than playing the keys or becoming a team player with a microphone. My role seemed to be more of an encouraging voice, a friend, and a companion to my preaching husband. My roles in serving others have always been more like the one mentioned by the Baptist Standard. I have served where I was needed regardless of my abilities.

Our first full time position was in Shepherd, Texas in 1985. I was 22 years of age. While sitting in one of our first services the pastor peeked thru the door and called me out of service. As I walked into the office there sat the financial secretary whom I had not met. Pastor informed me the secretary and his wife were moving and would not be back after that service. I was told to sit in the office and be trained in ONE service for the postion. While I had been employed for the Department of Defense Contract Auditing Agency and understood much about accounting principals I'm not sure I was qualified for the position of financial secretary. Little did I know this was one of the greatest experiences of my life for many reasons.

A later full-time position included the role of Kent being principal of a christian school. I found my self teaching first and second grades and high school grammar. I certainly did not have the qualifications needed for much of this duty. Again this was a great experience that equipped me for later needs. During this tenure I dealt with several disgruntled parents, watched as church members felt their children needed special treatment, etc. God used this time to prepare me for later.

Thankfully, in early days of ministry I learned to be able to talk with people despite my shyness and pray in the altars. Both of our positions prior to pastoring required that I work along side my husband. What a preparation for pastoring!

As a pastor's wife I have filled many positions. I have been the sole Sunday School teacher, Sunday School Director, and then teacher again under other's leadership. I have been a praise singer, choir member, and solo singer. The first year of our christian school I served as secretary, teacher, lunch lady, and administrator simultaneously. Now I serve as an advisor to our administrator and fine staff of 12 or 13 persons. In early days I was the only janitor. Later we were a family on the cleaning team. Now I serve as overseer to an outsourced janitorial crew. I have been the financial secretary and now assist when needed in our financial office. I have taken neighborhood children in my car to church, driven the church van, became captain of a bus route, and now oversee 2 busses and a van. Prior to a youth group I worked with the youth and would have them in our home weekly to play games. Now we have 3 separate groups for student activities - Kidz Klub, Stand Student Ministries, and Impact.

Currently, I go to the office with my husband Monday thru Friday. I have a small office (closet) with a corner computer desk in Kent's office. From that tiny 4 foot by 4 foot work space much is accomplished. We have a wonderful administrative assistant, school secretary, and financial secretary, assistant pastor, and school staff. I endeavor to be available to support them. When my intercom isn't buzzing, the adminstrative assistant isn't asking me a question, or someone isn't texting me I find time to study, write encouraging notes or cards, or even take personal time for Facebook or reading blogs. I am not required by my husband nor the church to go to the office but I go because I love the place God has called Kent and me to serve. Ocassionally, I skip out for a couple of hours to shop or meet a friend or family member for lunch.

While many of the things I have listed are of the 'physical roles' my most fullfilled moments come from the 'spiritual roles'. Nothing is more satisfying than praying and working with people and watching them overcome or grow spiritually. I enjoy praying for people in the privacy of my home, with people in service, or even meeting with people at night or away from church to pray. Outreach is something I fill God has anointed me to do. I find it very easy and rewarding to bring people to church and work with new converts. Last night while visiting with a new family who comes as a result of our busses I felt overcome with a burden for them. Several was standing around. I asked Kent if would could pray with this couple. I can't explain the faith and excitement I felt as we prayed in our church foyer.

Being a pastor's wife has not been all fun and glamour but its rewards have far exceeded the problems. When the work becomes mundane and the pressures great I attempt to find something or someone where I can make a difference. Yesterday was one of those days. I dealt with a couple of situations that were less than pleasant. After lunch I returned to the office and needed to do something positive. I quicky began moving around greenery, decor, etc. In a few minutes time Deadra and I had refreshed the ladies bathroom, 3 offices, my space, and our church foyer. I'm not sure anyone even noticed last night at church but I sure felt better!

This entry will continue over the next few months. It will not be my sole subject but while attempting to help the ministers wives of CUPC (more than 10 of them) I thought others may enjoy my thoughts. This is not one of my lessons but rather a look at what ministry has been to me...

HELP....sincerely, I NEED help!

I'm working on a project and would appreciate any and all input from all readers. Please leave for me a BRIEF job description of what YOU feel is the role of a minister's wife. This isn't a joke. I'm not setting you up I need this for a project.

Often I receive comments and even more personal emails from readers of this blog thanking me for being an encouragement or a help. For once, I'm soliciting your help.

Thanks for helping me!

2010 - A Year of Growth

Some things will simply transpire in 2010. We will have pastored CUPC for 19 years in March. I will turn 47 in June. Kent will turn 49 in June. Calah and Trent will be married 2 years in June. Kent and I will be married 28 years in July. Redonia will turn 24 in August. Trent will turn 23 in September.

Other things don't transpire so naturally. These are the things that I must diligently work towards. Many things I will endeavor to see come to pass are spiritual while others are simply physical. I am a firm believer in establishing both physical and spiritual goals. While these goals are often separate in a real sense they are quite connected. I don't believe our spiritual person is ever separated from the person we really are.

This year I plan to spend much time on myself. Before judging me harshly allow me to say I can never be to God or others anything I am not to myself. I want to begin this year being true to myself. I want to see the person I really am and not the person I want others to perceive me as or the person I wish I were. What a task!

Next I want to spend time and energy investing in others. While I certainly do not have all the answers I do believe everyone has something to share with others. Hence, the more time I spend on myself the more I should be able to share with others.

This year I intend to spend more time in prayer for my children. I intend to see a break through in each of their lives. I'm blessed with wonderful children but I anticipate seeing them become even greater persons. Last night as I settled into my bed this 'motherly feeling' griped me. I told Kent that I had a burden for my children. The past two days I have worked on some ways that I can help each of them. I hope in the next few days to have a prayer meeting in our home with our children. Will it be the first? Absolutely not. However, this year I hope to have more family prayer meetings. I hope I can lead others in doing the same. It doesnt' matter that my children are grown I still believe a family who prays together stays together.

The past few weeks I have had a few minor health issues. I know these situations are a result of my body being tired and stressed. This year I plan to work on many plans to overcome a tired and stressed body. Before I receive comments that I do too much let me clearly say in 2010 I don't plan to back off of anything. In fact I plan to do more. I just intend to be more organized than ever before. I am a lister and a planner but I plan to work smarter.

Becoming debt free is a goal we have established. The economy isn't the greatest and when your income is tied directly to the livlihood of others I believe it's wise to work on outgo. Kent and I have begun working on this in ourselves and in our church. We endeavor to be good and wise stewards.

A church does not grows naturally rather it takes much planting, fertilizing, and working the ground and the crop. Likewise, I plan to work for continued revival.

This year Kent and I are committed to training in the local church. We want to get people positioned within the church where they are not overloaded with responsibility. I truly believe this is fundamental to growth within the various departments of the church. While many serve in various capacities in the church because they have much to offer it is our goal to get each person serving in places where they will truly offer much. This is a very delicate situation to handle within the framework of ministry. Again, this requires everyone being true to themselves. Some areas require much more work than others. Some positions make it easy to handle multiple positions while other positions require hours of work.

Growth must be the goal every event, department and person. Growth is not necessarily numbers. Personal growth and growth within a department doesn't mean multiplication but many times enlargement of ourselves. I look forward to 2010 being a year of great growth!

Reflecting 2009

In many ways 2009 has been one of the most incredible years of my life. I endeavored to give thanks in all things – good and bad.

Kent and I decided we would go beyond the normal temperatures in our lives and would turn up the heat to a boiling point. At boiling point steam intensifies and can move a huge locomotive. Things in our lives, church, and city needed to move and we felt turning up the heat was a venue to accomplish.

I committed to reading the Bible through. While I didn’t reach this goal I did read more of the Bible than in 2008. One of the funny things is I did make it through all of the ‘begats’.

Happily, I mark intensifying personal outreach efforts was accomplished. Today since our busses didn’t operate I drove the church van and picked up two families. I began working with Tonya and Neva two years ago. It wasn’t until this year they have begun coming faithfully to church (Sun & Wed). The other family – a Mom, Dad, and 4 children began coming this year as a result of the bus route. The entire family comes to our services faithfully, too. Sitting with Tonya, Roland, Keisha and their children was Tamia and her children. This is another family as a result of the bus route. Meeting me in the parking lot before 9 am was 4 little neighborhood boys who I have endeavored to love, rub their heads, pat their backs, and give snacks to this year. Though they were a handful in service (we didn’t have Sunday School) I am thankful they were at church. They played with my new iPhone and thought I was the coolest.

I have endeavored to be sensitive to the needs of others and show CARE. I truly believe that those persons who we may consider the ‘least’ as we CARE for them we are doing as unto God. This can be the poor, children, homeless, or even simply those who are miserable and make others feel the same. As I sit here recounting 2009 I truly believe this was a goal I successfully met. CARE isn’t a goal that is ever completed rather it is an act of kindness. These acts will never be complete rather new opportunities continue to present themselves. Although I have been somewhat successful in my attempts I plan for these efforts to grow.

I hoped to buy new furniture for a couple of rooms in our home. I didn’t reach this goal. While I could have financed the furniture I prefer to save and pay cash for it. I did update my guest bedroom furnishings. Yesterday I began an update to one of our bathrooms.

Another goal was to endeavor to make new friends. I decided rather than searching out brand new people to make relationships with people I was acquainted. I can truthfully say this has been a most rewarding part of my year. Last evening Kent came to Moms and handed me a card and a wonderful gift of candy from some new friends, Brian and Jana Allard. Though we have been acquainted with Brian’s parents thru the years via foreign missions it has been fun making friends with Brian and Jana. Resources (Facebook and blogging) were readily available to help with this goal. I have reconnected with Susan Hill. We have become prayer partners. Additionally, the Hursts forsook us Texans several years ago. The internet has allowed us to become reconnected. We enjoyed spending a few hours with them in California. Rhonda Mathis, a Georgia pastor’s wife, is another great friend I have met and have endeavored to get to know. Another wonderful friend is Sue Davidson. Sue is so lovely and she and her husband Terry inspire me. I have endeavored to spend more time in conversation with minister’s wives at various events and functions. I have accomplished with so many (Karen Wehrle, Glenda Stanley, Elaine Whitmire, Karla Holley, Linda Elms, Shara McKee, Veta McLaughlin and on and on this list goes).

Kent and I believe a minister and wife must be given to hospitality. We have worked on being gracious. In 2009 God has placed right in the middle of our lives persons each of our families have been very closely associated with during our childhoods. We are very thankful for them, Ron and Jerry Ann Guidroz. The Guidroz are some of the most gracious kind persons you will ever meet. I think it is important for us to surround ourselves with persons possessing Godly strengths and qualities. Bro. and Sis. Guidroz are masters in the area of kindness and hospitality.

I truly believe 2009 was a monumental year of setting a strong cornerstone in our lives. The areas accomplished will not be allowed to degenerate rather they will be polished, perfected, and mastered even greater in 2010. Since I have made my reflections I now countdown anxiously to 2010.

I wish each of you and your families a blessed new year!

It's Christmas

Decorate

Enjoy Christmas music

Do something for others

Keep Christ in Christmas


Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

God is neither a Gadget nor Trinket

The following is derived from Crosswalk, an online devotional source.

“There is nothing little in God” – C. H. Spurgeon

The Israelites spiritual decline wasn't the heathen's problem nor did the worldly people cause it. God's children got themselves into trouble. They disobeyed God by marrying godless people, doing business with the heathen nations in attempt to get rich quick, and they "used" God and His sacred symbols. in I Samuel 4: 1, the Philistines encamped at Aphek. It seems the battle didn't go well for Israel. In fact, the Philistines killed 4,000 Israelite men. The Israelite elders decided to turn their "BIG" God into a "little" gadget. "Let us bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord here from Shiloh, that He (the Lord) may come among us and save us from the power of our enemies," (I Samuel 4: 3).

Basically the elders were saying get the trinket or gadget – the Ark of the Covenant and we'll show them who is holy. According to I Samuel 3 and 4 God did not go on this excursion. He wasn't invited ahead of time because He wasn't in the hearts of His people before the battle began. However, when calamity hit, out came the Ark of the Covenant which contained the tablets of God's precepts totally ignored by His children. Then they wanted to use this sacred, holy object like a magic trick to get them out of trouble. They were cheating, lying, stealing, and living immoral lives, but when things got bad, they hollered at the heathen, "We've got God on our side - see our ark!" We do the same when we take God's holiness lightly and replace it with symbols.

Modern day symbols can be our churches, church affiliation, holiness attire etc. I LOVE CUPC, the UPCI, and holiness without which no man can see God. However using these things for power when we face sickness or problems is the same as the Israelites. When we don't deal with internal problem we are like Eli who chose to ignore the problems in his home. It is futile and hypocritical to go around and call out the "heathen" or to try and force "holy" symbols to demonstrate power or miracles. It is like saying “See, these Ten commandments and this Ark".

I prefer to pattern after after Moses when he came from the mount with God. Moses radiated with God’s holiness when he came down from Sinai. All of Israel knew he had been with God. The glory was reflected in him - from the inside out.

If I allow God apart of my every day life by being with Him I will not need Him in form of little trinkets or gadgets to try to fix problems, encourage others, or benefit those I serve. God is bigger than any of these circumstances and He doens't need to be visiable in form of a trinket or gadget. I want to allow Him to be the BIG God that He is. I want more of Him!

Psalms 63 (The Message)
1 God—you're my God! I can't get enough of you!
I've worked up such hunger and thirst for God,
traveling across dry and weary deserts.

2-4 So here I am in the place of worship, eyes open,
drinking in your strength and glory.
In your generous love I am really living at last!
My lips brim praises like fountains.
I bless you every time I take a breath;
My arms wave like banners of praise to you.

5-8 I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy;
I smack my lips. It's time to shout praises!
If I'm sleepless at midnight,
I spend the hours in grateful reflection.
Because you've always stood up for me,
I'm free to run and play.
I hold on to you for dear life,
and you hold me steady as a post.

In Honor of My Dad

Sunday, November 15, 1981 I thought the sun would never shine again. As I stood at the bedside of my dad he slipped so easily from my presence to be with the Lord. Dad was a United Pentecostal Minister. In fact Dad was my pastor. I lost my Dad, my pastor, my outreach director, the world’s worst singer, the world’s greatest worshipper, a friend to the minister’s of the Alabama District, an Alabama Board member until sickness raged, the one who all the family (Thomas and Ingram) turned to in times of trouble, and encourager of young evangelist.

Death was cruel to our little young family. I am the oldest of 4 children. Dad left us at the young age of 42. My mom was only 35. I was 18, Vicki 17, Scott would have been around 10, and Kristi 7. Somehow we made it. Well we made it because God was everything our little family needed. We also had wonderful support from family and friends.

Dad was a very passionate person. Whatever he chose to do he did it with all of his might. He was a man committed to reaching others. He could not rest until he knocked every door in the area of our church. He reached out to drug addicts, alcoholics, children, the poor, business people, etc. He lived with one thought: “People need God”. Dad was a conservative Apostolic. He was a sharp dresser and a very nice looking man. He had dark hair, was tall and lean. He wore a size 42 long suit as long as I can remember. He was over 6 foot tall and wore a size 9 shoe. He had dark hair, dark skin and had the cutest little grin. If you put Scott’s grin on Trent you would almost have the perfect image of Dad.

Dad was a family man and loved to play with the four of us kids. I sported a broken arm from wrestling with Dad. Vicki vomited in his face in a wrestling match. He also was determined when we did something it would be right. When we dusted furniture he would spot check us but running his finger in a not so noticeable place if he found a speck of dust we dusted the entire house again! He kept our shoes polished to a shine. Vicki and I had to keep his handkerchiefs ironed to a crisp tight fold.

Although 28 years may seem long ago today it only seems as yesterday. I well remember the 100’s who came in support of our family and the memory of Dad to the visitation and funeral. Many drove from great distances because they loved my Dad. I remember the powerful worship service at his funeral and the sweet spirit we felt during the service. I remember the drive of emptiness in procession for the interment. “Why were we being left alone?” I questioned. Thankfully, I learned at the young age of 18 that God would be my comfort.

Rather than choosing bitterness I chose to be blessed. I have endeavored to gain from my experiences of cancer, seizure, and all that went with this horrid time of life to be a better person. I decided I would not make excuses for my life rather I would help others with the things I faced and conquered with the help of a praying Mom. Today I celebrate the memory of a Dad who was passionate about scripture, souls, the UPCI, church, his family, vehicles, his clothing and lived life knowing he could do everything with the help of God.

Dad I love you and I WILL meet you again in heaven!

A Prepared Vessel vs. A Prepared Ministry

Last evening Kent preached a most powerful convicting message. Many times I’ve heard messages on the 10 Virgins. Last night however, Kent took it to a different level. He compared the Prepared Ministry to the 5 Foolish Virgins and the Prepared Vessel to the 5 Wise Virgins.

Our church strives to pay attention to the smallest of details. We never have dead space in a service. Our music is carefully planned out and rehearsed. Our hospitality department stands and greets with the most professional yet warm and friendly smiles, words, and handshakes. A visitor never touches a door from the front door to the sanctuary doors. Our announcements slides are beautiful, informing, and professional. Our secretaries answer the phones during the day with a smile and assist our callers professionally. Our accounting system is audit proof. Our Sunday School department utilizes the depth of men, ladies, and teens in most classes allowing for mentoring as well as excellence in our teaching staff. Our infants are attended by loving and nurturing persons. Our lighting and sound is diligently and carefully approached. Our bus drivers drive with a burden and love and smile at the children. Our bus crews love and interact with the children in a very positive manner. Our Bible Quizzers do a remarkable job. Our Christian school exceeds 80 in enrollment and our high school students are receiving dual credit with college taught on OUR campus. Our youth and college and career teams carefully plan out each event. Our maintenance crews both vehicles and buildings & grounds carefully take care of their responsibilities. The homeless are offered transportation to services and fed lunch each Sunday. All of our printing and graphics is above and beyond most expectations. CUPC realizes MORE is possible through teamwork and we work well as a team supporting one another and different departments or ministries within the church. All of this is our attempt to have a Prepared Ministry.

A Prepared Vessel however goes much deeper than the ministries of the church and reaches into each of us as individuals. Before ever attaching ourselves to a particular ministry we are an individual. Though we can prepare for a particular job or lend our talents to complete a particular job in the church nothing will ever compare to spiritually preparing ourselves. One thing for certain 5 foolish and the 5 wise were all Christian or religious ladies as we would call them today. In fact by virtue they were called virgins some may even call them holy or refer to them as set apart. None the less 5 were not ready for the bridegroom. It isn’t enough that I am prepared to carry out my various responsibilities within the church I must be prepared to meet the Lord. Furthermore if I will make sure the oil (representing anointing) is in my vessel the ministries I am associated will be more anointed. A church can have both anointing and a carefully planned organizational structure. A prepared vessel does not have to be sacrificed for a prepared ministry.

Matt 25:1-13 "Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. Those who were foolish, when they took their lamps, took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. Now while the bridegroom delayed, they all slumbered and slept. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Behold! The bridegroom is coming! Come out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘What if there isn’t enough for us and you? You go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ While they went away to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. Afterward the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us.’ But he answered, ‘Most assuredly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ Watch therefore, for you don’t know the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."

Enough Said?

During the course of my day yesterday while sitting quietly at my desk working my husband's phone rang numerous times. People were trying to learn information about an acquaintance of Kent's who recently experienced failure. I listened as Kent gracefully communicated without giving information. He discussed what was public knowledge and then stated he had been apart of making the knowledge not so 'public' to protect dignity of those involved. After leaving the office for lunch I expressed frustration to Kent. It frustrated me that people were calling trying to find information about someone in trouble. Trust me one of the callers would go CRAZY if anyone spoke a negative word about him or anyone remotely close to him.

Later I saw a pic of someone that made me cry. The person has changed to be something she really is not. Oh sure the person 'looks a mess' and even 'acts a mess' but I KNOW this is not the real person and soon she will wake up. Later, someone began to cast off with great emotion about this person and rightfully so. Quickly it occurred to me that with the 'casting off' was really a 'catching' of some one's dirty thoughts, attitudes, and even sin nature. I quickly suggested the person not even discuss the other person. Discussing the issues of the other person with such feeling will just dirty or clutter the mind and spirit,. I would prefer crying and not being able to talk with the person for fear of crying than experincing the filth the person is involved. I prefer loving the sinner yet hating the sin. I'm afraid discussion may cause me lose sight of hope for the grace and mercy of God available to the person.

This morning the first email I received was in regards to the troubling things of yesterday. The email came from a Christian man yet written to his secular colleagues. It shared the following quotes:

Earl Wilson, the first black American Leaguer to throw a no-hitter, once said, "If you wouldn't write it and sign it, don't say it."

"If you think little of a person, you ought to say as little as you think." - Ben Franklin

Lord, help me to be able to write and sign everything I say. When others have real issues that trouble, harm, or work against me help me say as little as I may feel about the person rather than belittle myself. My title is borrowed from Terry Davidson, Superintendent of Public School Comanche, OK. Mr. Davidson posed the question, "Enough Said?" as subject of his email written to challenge those he leads to a higher manner of conversation.

Today I ask of each of us, "Enough said?"

Instant is not the Same

Tonight we will be honoring the Servant of the Year nominated by our church members. Additionally we will honor those persons who receive 2nd and 3rd place. Our entire congregation is asked to nominate one person who goes above and beyond the 'call of duty', job description in our local church. This really has my thoughts turning. If we endeavor to recognize those who go above and beyond, I to want to go above and beyond what is expected of me.


We are living in a world that thrives on 'instant' things. Somethings just should not be 'instant'! I'm thankful for those who realize some things require WORK and EFFORT. The more we put into something the more we get out of it.....

I don't like instant potatoes. I can always tell when they are 'seasoned'. While the 'seasoned' instant potatoes taste better than those made simply by the package direction they still do not taste the same. They are lacking in flavor and the texture (feeling) is not the same.

What do people think when things in my area of responsibility are treated as instant and not real? Sure my areas of responsibility can be carried out and even at times reap successful rewards in an instant but I KNOW the difference when they are prayerfully carried out with love, devotion, and dedication. The rewards are very different when I do not live with an 'instant' mentality.

Instant really is not the same as the real....

Frustrated with Facebook

Facebooking as messed up blogging! Blogging requires my brain and time and Facebook doesn't. I can jump on and off of FB and it doesn't require me to slow down and think yet I can give brief one liners about my day. I can also communicate and keep up with others and I LOVE it!!!

So let me race thru what's been going on since my last post...

• Briefly went to check out the church in a day project! Yay Karen & Kenny Prince
• Texas District Minister's & Wives Retreat - Hillsboro, Texas
• Had an MOST incredible Family Revival with our dear friends, Ron & Jerry Ann Guidroz
• Attended the funeral of a dear Texas Pastor & Presbyter, Rev. Carlton Watkins
• Purchased a new church bus!!! Yay...2 busses and 1 van now...
• Went on a special date with my husband. Went to Mary Poppins, dinner @ Artista, and stayed the night at the Inn @ the Ball Park. All provided by Pastor Appreciation gifts and gift cards. Thanks CUPC....we love each of you!!!
• Went Trick or Treating today with a bunch of church kids. We took both busses and the kids loved it!!!
• Calah put up her Christmas tree today - - too early for me but went by to see the kids. She did a wonderful job!
• Kept Mallorie for an hour or so this evening. She's adorable.

Looking forward to WONDERFUL services tomorrow! CUPC is such an amazing church. I'm thankful for the MANY good things that are happening.

A Night of Fun Memories

This evening my sister in law, Courtney, called and asked if I was busy. Monday nights are normally a bit of a rest night. I had decided we were having hot dogs for dinner because it's easy. I told her our plans for the evening. She asked if I could keep Kyleigh for a couple of hours.

Kyleigh is recovering from H1N1 and I knew she didn't need to run up and down the stairs like she normally enjoys. So I tried to think of something to occupy her. Madeline and I enjoy baking cookies together so I decided Kyleigh may be old enough to give it a try. Much to my surprise she LOVED baking the cookies and did an awesome job decorating them, too.

We made sugar cookies. I purchased a can of white frosting. I divided the frosting into smaller containers. Kyleigh loved adding red and yellow food coloring to one dish and watching it turn orange. The other bowl we opted to add yellow food coloring only.

After the cookies were baked she enjoyed spreading the frosting on the warm cookies. Then she added orange, green, and yellow sugars. She decorated the cookies with candy corn and mellow cream pumpkins.

Kyleigh and I decided we needed to share the cookies. We prepared a platter for Grammy and Popsie, one for her Papa, and one for her to take home. Just as were finishing Grammy brought Mallorie over to see our candle-lit pumpkins and cookies. Kyleigh was so excited that Mallorie enjoyed a cookie.

Courtney and I enjoyed a warm cup of carmel apple cider with cinnamon, sugar and whipped cream with a fresh baked cookie decorated by Kyleigh. I love spending time with my family. Making memories with them is a very valuable part of my life.

I hope you enjoyed the slide show....

Happy Fall!!!!