I've found my new favorite hobby...Gardening! I love it! Naively, I always thought that gardening was just some thing old people did in order to pass the time, similar to making dollies, crossword puzzles, and the like. However, like most things in life I was once again proven wrong. But please shhhhh! Don't tell all the hip kids I like to spend my weekends talking to my plants!
(Disclaimer: If you've never gardened before you will probably think I am a little crazy for the rest of this blog)
Gardening has quickly become one of my favorite things to do once home from work. I'm very attached to my garden. I even have names for some of my plants! My largest tomato plant is affectionately known as Horatio. I'm so protective of my garden that I rarely even let Tommy water it. I told him it's because nobody can take care of "my babies" like I can. Plus, I don't want to blame him if something horrible happens to the plants. With good reason, Tommy is now afraid of how I will act when we have children!
I love many things about gardening. I love eating my own organically grown produce. The produce is fresh and chemical free! Also, I find gardening to be a very relaxing hobby. In addition, I get to be outside in the sun, which if you know me at all is one of my favorite things ever! There are many more elements about gardening that I enjoy, but perhaps the most enjoyable aspects is how it enlightens me spiritually. Now don't worry, I'm not getting all New Age! Seriously! By cultivating and managing my own plants, I have come to more fully appreciate the many parallels and allegories about gardening that are in the Bible. I somehow feel that I understand God's role more as a gardener. How intensely He cares for each plant(person) and longs to see it grow. He waters each one precisely. He even grieves when their growth is stunted or damaged. And He nurses them back to health. It is such a beautiful picture of how our lives can spring from the tiniest particle into a fruitful plant with God. And God desires to help us continue to grow by tenderly caring for us and supplying us with the right nutrients. Sometimes it is even in our best interest if we are pruned.
I could go on and on about the beauty of gardening, but please try it for yourself and let God remind you of how he makes all things grow. Even the smallest speck can become a fruitful plant, whom He personally cares for and nurtures.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Internet as God
Since January, when Tommy and I moved into our new home, we have been without Internet. How do we survive living such an uncivilized lifestyle you ask? Well, Panera has become our new best friend! I love Internet shopping! Unlike most girls I really don't enjoy shopping. Malls have this strange effect on me. I tend to get sleepy, hungry, or cranky, and sometimes all three at once. All that to say, I am not the best of company for a shopping excursion. But I love to browse the Internet for deals. I always seem to find way better deals on books, clothing, music, etc. And all from the comfort of home! In addition, I love to use the Internet to answer questions that pop into my head through out the day. Like, "What can I do about my tomato plant that suddenly started wilting?" or "How can I remove a stubborn grease stain from my comfy summer shorts?" Furthermore, I love using the Internet as a study resource for my personal devotions. Tommy and I also use the Internet to do our banking. All this to say, I really miss having the Internet.
Our new neighbors somehow all have Internet and from the provider we used to have at our old house. We'll call the provider Owest. We've spent numerous hours on the phone trying to get service at our new address. However, we've been told the service is not available in our area at this time. We've even had some tips from people who have been given the same line by this company, however, its all been to no avail. This past month I really started to miss Internet. It's hard because our small group, church, etc send out updates via email, so I always feel out of the loop. And every time I want to research some question, I think about looking it up quick through the Internet and then remember, "Oh yeah, we don't have it."
Before I know it modern conveniences, can become my God. I really dislike not having the Internet. But can I live without it? Of course, but I don't want to! It's probably been good for me actually: not spending hours surfing for random information, checking my email, or keeping up with my hundreds of best friends on Facebook. I guess its humbling thinking about how easy it is for me to spend time on the Internet and sometimes I barely squeeze out my time with God. It makes me also consider other areas of my life. For instance, I feel so unprepared if I leave the house without my cell phone. How many times do I leave equipped with everything God desires of me?
Will we ever get the Internet again? I hope so, but I definitely don't want it to be something I can't live with out!
Our new neighbors somehow all have Internet and from the provider we used to have at our old house. We'll call the provider Owest. We've spent numerous hours on the phone trying to get service at our new address. However, we've been told the service is not available in our area at this time. We've even had some tips from people who have been given the same line by this company, however, its all been to no avail. This past month I really started to miss Internet. It's hard because our small group, church, etc send out updates via email, so I always feel out of the loop. And every time I want to research some question, I think about looking it up quick through the Internet and then remember, "Oh yeah, we don't have it."
Before I know it modern conveniences, can become my God. I really dislike not having the Internet. But can I live without it? Of course, but I don't want to! It's probably been good for me actually: not spending hours surfing for random information, checking my email, or keeping up with my hundreds of best friends on Facebook. I guess its humbling thinking about how easy it is for me to spend time on the Internet and sometimes I barely squeeze out my time with God. It makes me also consider other areas of my life. For instance, I feel so unprepared if I leave the house without my cell phone. How many times do I leave equipped with everything God desires of me?
Will we ever get the Internet again? I hope so, but I definitely don't want it to be something I can't live with out!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Gospel for Asia
Tommy and I had the privilege of being in Texas for a week earlier this month. We attended a missions conference put on by Gospel for Asia (GFA). This organization focuses on sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with some of the most unreached people groups in Asia, especially India.
I love this organization for several reasons. First, 100% of all funds that are donated to GFA go directly to the field, nothing is taken out for administration purposes. In addition, GFA seems to really live out the word of God. The organization is not flashy; they don't have the edgiest promotional films, the leaders dress modestly, and the selection of GFA merchandise they do offer is available to anyone (they only suggest reasonable donations- a very different approach than Christian bookstores, who seem to horde the good news by their pricey purchases). Through these and many other practices, you can tell that everything they do is about pursuing the Lord and making his name known as opposed to making their name known. Finally, I thoroughly enjoyed the humble simplicity demonstrated at the conference. Tommy and I didn't come away from the conference with any huge new spiritual revelations or knowing more Greek words. Instead, we came away refreshed by an organization and its people that humbly serve the Lord. The messages were simple, yet refreshingly authentic. The call to action was humble and not guilt-laden. The work was God focused not us-centered (what we can do), for God works more in spite of us than through us.
GFA has two main programs you can help sponsor. First you can sponsor a native missionary in Asia. These men and women already know the language and are willing to live and work in the poor conditions of most of Asia. They travel and live in some very harsh environments both spiritually and physically. Second, you can sponsor a Dalit child. The Dalits are the untouchables of India. They are not even part of the caste system as they are considered sub-human. They perform the most menial jobs and live in extreme poverty. They are also subject to all sorts of abuse including rape and murder simply because of their status (or lack thereof) in society. When you sponsor a child you will provide them with clothing, food, an education, medical care and most importantly the message of Christ. With an estimated 300 million Dalits currently, there are 160 million child laborers (starting at age 4) and 90 million hungry children every day. Somewhere around 95% or more (I apologize I couldn't find the study that was done on this) of all Christian money marked for missions is going to people groups who are already reached (Asia contains many of the unreached people groups in the world). This fact really challenged me to think how I give of money that the Lord has blessed me with. We are our brother's keeper even if they are half way around the world!
I have added some links on my page so that you can explore GFA's site for yourself. Enjoy!
I love this organization for several reasons. First, 100% of all funds that are donated to GFA go directly to the field, nothing is taken out for administration purposes. In addition, GFA seems to really live out the word of God. The organization is not flashy; they don't have the edgiest promotional films, the leaders dress modestly, and the selection of GFA merchandise they do offer is available to anyone (they only suggest reasonable donations- a very different approach than Christian bookstores, who seem to horde the good news by their pricey purchases). Through these and many other practices, you can tell that everything they do is about pursuing the Lord and making his name known as opposed to making their name known. Finally, I thoroughly enjoyed the humble simplicity demonstrated at the conference. Tommy and I didn't come away from the conference with any huge new spiritual revelations or knowing more Greek words. Instead, we came away refreshed by an organization and its people that humbly serve the Lord. The messages were simple, yet refreshingly authentic. The call to action was humble and not guilt-laden. The work was God focused not us-centered (what we can do), for God works more in spite of us than through us.
GFA has two main programs you can help sponsor. First you can sponsor a native missionary in Asia. These men and women already know the language and are willing to live and work in the poor conditions of most of Asia. They travel and live in some very harsh environments both spiritually and physically. Second, you can sponsor a Dalit child. The Dalits are the untouchables of India. They are not even part of the caste system as they are considered sub-human. They perform the most menial jobs and live in extreme poverty. They are also subject to all sorts of abuse including rape and murder simply because of their status (or lack thereof) in society. When you sponsor a child you will provide them with clothing, food, an education, medical care and most importantly the message of Christ. With an estimated 300 million Dalits currently, there are 160 million child laborers (starting at age 4) and 90 million hungry children every day. Somewhere around 95% or more (I apologize I couldn't find the study that was done on this) of all Christian money marked for missions is going to people groups who are already reached (Asia contains many of the unreached people groups in the world). This fact really challenged me to think how I give of money that the Lord has blessed me with. We are our brother's keeper even if they are half way around the world!
I have added some links on my page so that you can explore GFA's site for yourself. Enjoy!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Why I eat food off the floor
I had the opportunity to hang out with two very smart friends this past Friday night. I am always gaining insight from these two ladies. We talked about the overuse of handsanitizer and antibiotics. At one point my friend Crystal said, "That's why I'm a proponent of eating food I drop on the floor." I thought that her declaration did a great job of capturing the conversation.
We talked about the overuse of antibiotics for animals, which in turn we humans readily consume these animals. This eventually leads to resistant bacteria. This is also true for humans. If you are like me, the first thing the doctor prescribes when you are sick is an antibiotic. Also, although it might take a while to occur, using hand sanitizer frequently can eventually lead to stronger resistant bacteria. All these examples work to selectively breed even more harmful and dangerously strong bacteria. So maybe the next time you drop some food on the floor and are frightened by the aspect of germs, you should think twice about just throwing it in the trash. Perhaps our bodies could use a good dose of healthy bacteria.
Below are some links on the topics discussed in this post:
http://www.ucsusa.org/food_and_environment/antibiotics_and_food/
http://www.keepantibioticsworking.com/pages/basics/overuse.cfm
http://www.drgreene.com/21_646.html
We talked about the overuse of antibiotics for animals, which in turn we humans readily consume these animals. This eventually leads to resistant bacteria. This is also true for humans. If you are like me, the first thing the doctor prescribes when you are sick is an antibiotic. Also, although it might take a while to occur, using hand sanitizer frequently can eventually lead to stronger resistant bacteria. All these examples work to selectively breed even more harmful and dangerously strong bacteria. So maybe the next time you drop some food on the floor and are frightened by the aspect of germs, you should think twice about just throwing it in the trash. Perhaps our bodies could use a good dose of healthy bacteria.
Below are some links on the topics discussed in this post:
http://www.ucsusa.org/food_and_environment/antibiotics_and_food/
http://www.keepantibioticsworking.com/pages/basics/overuse.cfm
http://www.drgreene.com/21_646.html
Friday, June 20, 2008
Religion versus Redemption and the story of Ruth
I have a new favorite speaker. His name is Mark Driscoll and he leads Mars Hill Church in Seattle, WA . I just recently finished his series on Ruth. Amazing!! I can't tell you how many times I found myself convicted and just wanting to fall on the floor and repent in front of God. I don't want to give away everything, but seriously it is amazing. You can listen to it yourself if you go to www.marshillchurch.org, click on more video content, and then scroll down to find the series on Ruth.
He ends the whole series showing how religion and redemption oppose each other. I was totally convicted to find how easily I fall into religion. I feel guilty when I don't obey God or when I skip a day reading my bible. I look down on others for their sins, when I myself have just done the very same thing. Mark would say to me that I am the worst type of sinner, I am religious. Religion only leads to self-righteousness and pride or guilt and depression (which is also prideful). Religion replaces the beauty of grace! In fact, it leaves no room at all for grace or redemption. Somehow I think that my religion will make me less offensive to God, but the truth is that I am just being an unrepentant sinner. Religion is focused on what we do or don't do, while Redemption is only focused on what Jesus has done. Martin Luther said that religion is the default mode of the human heart and we have to constantly fight against it.
By now if you're reading my blog, I'm sure you're think, "Wow, this girl is pretty messed up." And the truth is, I am! So keep praying for me, that God would continue to work on a very stubborn and prideful heart like mine! That I would have joy in him alone, that he is my redemption and that I would have no faith in religion.
He ends the whole series showing how religion and redemption oppose each other. I was totally convicted to find how easily I fall into religion. I feel guilty when I don't obey God or when I skip a day reading my bible. I look down on others for their sins, when I myself have just done the very same thing. Mark would say to me that I am the worst type of sinner, I am religious. Religion only leads to self-righteousness and pride or guilt and depression (which is also prideful). Religion replaces the beauty of grace! In fact, it leaves no room at all for grace or redemption. Somehow I think that my religion will make me less offensive to God, but the truth is that I am just being an unrepentant sinner. Religion is focused on what we do or don't do, while Redemption is only focused on what Jesus has done. Martin Luther said that religion is the default mode of the human heart and we have to constantly fight against it.
By now if you're reading my blog, I'm sure you're think, "Wow, this girl is pretty messed up." And the truth is, I am! So keep praying for me, that God would continue to work on a very stubborn and prideful heart like mine! That I would have joy in him alone, that he is my redemption and that I would have no faith in religion.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
He doesn't do what He is told
Do you ever tell God what to do? Do ever tell God to tell other people in your life how they should act? Well, I do it all the time. You're probably thinking right now, that's pretty arrogant. And you are certainly right, I am perhaps one of the most arrogant people I know. But if you are honest with yourself, you would have to say that you are also probably just as arrogant, that's the nature of humans.
Often in my life I try to manipulate God to get what I want. I kick and whine when I don't get my way. I command that the almighty should follow my plans, my desires, my ways. This past year, I have had to learn the hard way that no matter how hard I kick and scream, God thankfully does not let me have my way. And instead of humbly capitulating to not only a sovereign, but loving God, I got angry. I, an evil human being, wicked to core, was angry with an almighty , in control, and gracious God to his children.
How often have I been angry, bitter, or even hated God at times? Is it right? No, of course not, but is it honest? Yes. And I am done pretending that I always love God perfectly, because this past year I have definitely acted grudgingly toward God. When the Spirit started to reveal to my heart how evil I am for resenting a good God who has only given me grace, I felt horrible. I doubted God's goodness. A Christian is not supposed to be mad, bitter at God. What would other Christians think of me? How dare she be angry with God? Had God's love for me changed when my love for him fluctuated like Iowa weather? For a while I felt so ashamed, I shouldn't be angry with God. But lets face it I was! And rather than try to save face and pretend that I am a perfectly loving creature, I admit...I AM NOT! !
The truth is God knew all along how I felt towards him. May I always run to Him and be honest because He already knows. And the more blessed truth is that God loved me through it all. Thank the Lord our God, who doesn't do what He is told and who loves me in my darkest times. God may I be a humble worshiper of you!
Often in my life I try to manipulate God to get what I want. I kick and whine when I don't get my way. I command that the almighty should follow my plans, my desires, my ways. This past year, I have had to learn the hard way that no matter how hard I kick and scream, God thankfully does not let me have my way. And instead of humbly capitulating to not only a sovereign, but loving God, I got angry. I, an evil human being, wicked to core, was angry with an almighty , in control, and gracious God to his children.
How often have I been angry, bitter, or even hated God at times? Is it right? No, of course not, but is it honest? Yes. And I am done pretending that I always love God perfectly, because this past year I have definitely acted grudgingly toward God. When the Spirit started to reveal to my heart how evil I am for resenting a good God who has only given me grace, I felt horrible. I doubted God's goodness. A Christian is not supposed to be mad, bitter at God. What would other Christians think of me? How dare she be angry with God? Had God's love for me changed when my love for him fluctuated like Iowa weather? For a while I felt so ashamed, I shouldn't be angry with God. But lets face it I was! And rather than try to save face and pretend that I am a perfectly loving creature, I admit...I AM NOT! !
The truth is God knew all along how I felt towards him. May I always run to Him and be honest because He already knows. And the more blessed truth is that God loved me through it all. Thank the Lord our God, who doesn't do what He is told and who loves me in my darkest times. God may I be a humble worshiper of you!
Fun Facts
So I'm pretty cheesy and love stuff like this. Emily tagged me to complete the following sentences:
I am...still considered a newlywed (supposedly you are a newlywed for 2 years).
I want…a road bike.
I wish…I could speed read.
I hate…Satan's lies.
I miss…college, it's freedom and less responsibility.
I fear…not living passionately enough for God.
I feel…tired right now.
I hear…people chattering and typing at work.
I smell…my chicken, spinach, artichoke calzone.
I crave…lots of fun and goofiness, but also a deep authenticity in friendships.
I search…for good deals on the Internet, especially books (I love to read).
I wonder…why people like Mushrooms, yuck!
I regret…my disobedience to God.
I love…summer time.
I ache…after sitting all day, I hate being stuck at a desk job.
I care…about what I eat.
I always…eat breakfast first after I wake up.
I am not…very humble, but I wish I was.
I believe…I can fly(Just kidding). Ummm really I believe that I pretty much stink.
I dance…like Bill Cosby to jazz music.
I sing...when I am joyful.
I cry…in spurts, usually when God is working on my heart.
I don’t always…listen to my cellphone voicemail, I usually just call people back.
I fight...with the two people I love the most: God and Tommy, man I'm ornery.
I write…in a journal.
I never…mow the lawn, I'm allergic.
I listen…to Mark Driscoll, I like him, he makes me laugh a lot.
I need...a water bottle with me at all times.
I am happy…when I at rest in God's goodness.
Now I'm tagging Angela.
I am...still considered a newlywed (supposedly you are a newlywed for 2 years).
I want…a road bike.
I wish…I could speed read.
I hate…Satan's lies.
I miss…college, it's freedom and less responsibility.
I fear…not living passionately enough for God.
I feel…tired right now.
I hear…people chattering and typing at work.
I smell…my chicken, spinach, artichoke calzone.
I crave…lots of fun and goofiness, but also a deep authenticity in friendships.
I search…for good deals on the Internet, especially books (I love to read).
I wonder…why people like Mushrooms, yuck!
I regret…my disobedience to God.
I love…summer time.
I ache…after sitting all day, I hate being stuck at a desk job.
I care…about what I eat.
I always…eat breakfast first after I wake up.
I am not…very humble, but I wish I was.
I believe…I can fly(Just kidding). Ummm really I believe that I pretty much stink.
I dance…like Bill Cosby to jazz music.
I sing...when I am joyful.
I cry…in spurts, usually when God is working on my heart.
I don’t always…listen to my cellphone voicemail, I usually just call people back.
I fight...with the two people I love the most: God and Tommy, man I'm ornery.
I write…in a journal.
I never…mow the lawn, I'm allergic.
I listen…to Mark Driscoll, I like him, he makes me laugh a lot.
I need...a water bottle with me at all times.
I am happy…when I at rest in God's goodness.
Now I'm tagging Angela.
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