Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Tower of Terror or Leap of Faith


This past week at staff retreat, we had options for our free time.  Playing it safe, I chose a calming, soothing massage.  My son, however, leaned on adrenaline rush.  He decided to jump off a 100-foot tower!  As I sat on the bench looking up at him with his helmet and safety equipment on his body, I could not help but think, “What if that equipment fails?”  I envisioned my son laying flat on the ground.  I understand the chances were minimal and this was extreme but my fears allowed that mental outcome to be a considered reality. 

God provided a beautiful illustration as I was praying, asking Him to keep my son safe.  God showed me that although I can see the equipment attached to my son, that equipment has the ability to fail him.  In this case, he would not have a safe landing.  In contrast, I am unable to physically witness the hand of God on my life but God is in me, all around me, and working through my life to minister to those who He ordained to cross my path.  God wants me to trust Him enough to leap from whatever tower of faith He is calling me to.  He wants me to jump without questioning details.  He desires that I leap with an obedient heart that is faithful to do whatever He has asked me to do.  Here is the cool part!  Although I cannot see Him, I am equipped with the invisible Armor of God (Eph. 6:10-18) that will protect my heart, mind, and soul.  HE will never fail me!

Fear has the ability to paralyze us, keeping us from the will of God.  Fear is of the enemy.  The enemy hates it when we step out in faith, relying solely on God for provision, strength, vision, and guidance.  We must take the leap of faith and jump off the tower into His safe arms that serve as a refuge, strength, and stronghold.

Psalm 27:1 reads, “The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?”

What tower of terror is paralyzing you?  What giant step is He asking you to take?  Will you take the leap of faith?  I would love the opportunity to partner in prayer with you. 

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Take a Step of Faith & Watch Fear Fade



Fear has always been a battle in my life.  Sometimes, I feel as if I am on a rollercoaster ride.  There are days I feel that I can conquer the world and anything it throws my way.  Other days, fear cripples me to the point of extreme anxiety that produces stomach pain and loss of appetite.  I become pre-occupied with all the worst-case scenarios life could bring.  At the end of the day, I lay my head on the pillow and find difficulty sleeping.

 Matthew 6:25-27 reads, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”  One would believe that since I have been a Christian since the age of seven, that I could believe my Heavenly Father has everything in control (especially the things I cannot control.) 

Fear of failure and fear of the unknown are two areas in my life that need a HUGE makeover!  From the small things (like trying a new drink at Starbucks, which my husband recommended for two years…and BTW, I loved!) to the larger things (making decisions that affect my family’s future,) fear cripples me almost every time. 

Faith, however, has the power to move mountains!  Matthew 17:20-21 reads, “Because you have so little faith, I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move.  Nothing will be impossible for you.”  God desires to do the impossible through our lives and astonish us! 

I don’t know about you but I desire to get out of the boat like Peter did and walk on water.  You may say, “But wait!  Peter took his eyes off Jesus and began to sink!”  Yes he did, however, he took the first step and got out of the boat.  Let us remember the ending.  Even when he took his eyes of Jesus, it was then that his Best Friend took him by the hand and brought him up out of that water.  Yes, Jesus wanted more for him.  He desired for Peter to walk on water all the way to Him.  Peter did take baby steps toward faith.  How about you and I?  Will we step out of the boat when we feel God calling us?  Or will we stay where it is comfortable and safe? 

What step of faith is God calling you to take today?  I would love to hear from you so I can pray with and for you.  Are you willing to take one step at a time toward faith and allow God to slowly help your fear to fade away?  I promise you, He has great things in store for you!  Allow your fearless faith to move mountains!


Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Coke, Dr. Pepper, or Jesus…Which is the ‘Real Thing?’


The past two weeks have proven to be amazing, yet exhausting.  God did amazing things at camp and VBS.  We watched miracles take place and witnessed kids kneeling before the Lord on their hands and knees (boys and girls!)  If you have spent any length of time with 4th-6th graders, you would understand why I had tears flowing down my cheeks as I observed every child at camp kneel before God simultaneously as the director asked us to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit.  It was beautiful!  A moment I will never forget!

We had over 200 kids attend VBS all week.  Many were invited who had never attended church.  Over eight kids with special needs were included in every activity and Bible story.  Each child was loved on and discipled.  It was so exciting to meet and greet some of these new families on Sunday morning.  What a true blessing!

I desire to focus primarily on the beautiful moments of the past two weeks; however, I do want to acknowledge that exhaustion is a reality.  Jesus set the example of creating a place of solitude, especially after some of the most amazing miracles were performed through His power.  He walked a perfect life but He was a human being, like you and me.  He longed for a time of refreshment with His Heavenly Father.  He knew when to retreat.

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."  Matthew 11:28-29 (The Message)

Directly after Sunday services, I prayed with my sweet and gracious family.  I packed my bags and left for a few days of solitude, rest, and quiet time with my Creator.  My first evening, I was craving a Coke.  I do not enjoy any other drink (will settle for Pepsi) but Coke is my soft drink of choice.  I placed my coins into the vending machine and pushed the “Coke” button, all to realize that it is sold out.  Thankfully, there is another Coke button.  I gently press it…all to find my worst nightmare.  It is sold out as well.  I decide that Sprite will quench my thirst.  I gently press the Sprite button and to my despair, a Dr. Pepper arrives in the bottom tray.  My heart sinks!  I hate Dr. Pepper!  I feel a moment of frustration and then quickly ask the Lord to forgive me.  I decide that I am not letting anything ruin my time with the Lord.  This was the first of many circumstances that I did not plan but the Lord had another plan for my time with Him.

This particular instance served as a life lesson.  I walked back to my hotel room.  I decided (being the frugal person I am) that I am not letting this drink go to waste.  I take a sip of the Dr. Pepper.  It is not too bad after all! 

This was a beautiful illustration of the thirst we should feel for our Heavenly Father.  We should long to spend time with Him.  I was so thirsty at that moment that I would settle for a drink that I previously detested.  I want to thirst for Jesus in the same way.  Jesus aches to spend each and every moment of our day with Him.  He longs for us to talk to Him…but most importantly, to be still and know that He is God!  He wants us release the guilt of feeling the need to always “do” and simply “be.” 

I am enjoying time with my Heavenly Father this week and I encourage you to “thirst” for Him like none other.  When you feel depleted, take time to just “be.”  Trust that He is in control of all things.  He will rejuvenate our souls.  The result: passion is ignited and vision is cast when we remain in His presence and listen to His small, still voice.  Allow Jesus to quench your thirst!  His living water will flow through you.

“As a deer gets thirsty for streams of water, I truly am thirsty for You, my God.”
Psalm 42:1 (CEV)

Friday, July 6, 2012

Pursuing Patience with Purpose


A few nights ago, my husband and I decided we were long overdue for a date night.  Sometimes, these date nights are as simple as doing a little shopping together.  As we walk around, it offers us the opportunity to just “be” and converse uninterrupted.  I am convinced that God had more than a “date night” in store for us this very evening.  He wanted to use us to brighten a total stranger’s day.

As we enter the first retail store, their computer is down so we wait in a long line.  The good news:  we are not in a rush.  We wait patiently.  The line is also long because the lady behind the counter is the only lady on staff for the evening.  The customer in front of us learns that she has endured a difficult day.  We listen as she shares that her dog was struck by a vehicle a few hours ago.  As we wait patiently (ok, maybe patience was being tested a bit), the telephone rings and she answers.  It is her husband bearing the bad news that her dog is going to be put to sleep while she is on shift.  She does not even receive the opportunity to say good-bye to this precious and beloved pet.  She leans on the counter and begins to sob.  At that moment, I wanted to grab an apron and longed to step behind the counter to relieve her and begin helping customers.  In the real world, I knew this was impossible.  I knew at that moment, all that was within my power was prayer.  So that is what I did.

Within moments, she pulled herself together.  She had no choice.  She was the only staff member on duty.  Her perseverance was inspiring!  My heart ached for her.

We finished our transaction and looked at each other.  It was as if we could read each other’s minds.  We walked down the sidewalk and purchased a “Chill” frozen yogurt gift card.  We knew this would not heal her heart but surely she would feel a sense that someone truly cared.  We quickly walked back to this store and there was a longer line than even before.  We did not care.  We knew God had us here for a purpose.  It was at this moment, I felt compelled to place a $20 bill inside the gift card.  As she saw us, she asked, “Did I do something wrong?”

I replied, “You could not be more wrong.  We are here to bless you.  Thank you for your smile in the midst of tragedy.  We have a small gift for you.”  In the beginning, she refused to accept.  I explained I was not taking “no” for an answer.  Finally, she graciously accepted.  She gave me a hug twice.  Her eyes welled up with tears as I shared that we are praying for her.

I was moved with emotion as I walked out with tears streaming down my face.  “Thank you, Heavenly Father…for your many blessings.  Thank you for placing me in a long line to take a moment to bless this sweet lady.  I may never witness the fruit firsthand and that is more than alright.  I pray You allowed her to see a glimpse of You within us at that very moment.”  This was my prayer to God.

I encourage you to be aware of who God places in your path today.  Ask Him how He desires to have you bless them.  It may simply be a smile.  Sometimes, that is the most meaningful blessing one can receive.  Sometimes, a smile brings HOPE.  Jesus is our ultimate HOPE.  What fruit of the Spirit will you bear today so that Jesus shines through you?

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
                                                            Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

A Life of Legacy


Today would have been my grandfather’s 89th birthday.  On this particular day, a flood of memories fills my heart and soul.  God designed His people to love God and love each other.  He desires for us to live in reconciliation with one another.  Even deeper, He longs for us to disciple one another.  Our lives should be lived each day with purpose.  Each moment should be intentional.  We should ask the Holy Spirit to guide each step, seeking opportunity to be a blessing to others. 

My grandfather’s steps reflect this description.  He made a difference in my life.  I traveled over 2000 miles to pay tribute to him at his memorial service.  As I arrived to the cemetery, I was greeted by every one of my cousins…all 20+.  My grandfather fed the hungry, loved the unlovable, and worked diligently to provide for his family. 

God does not expect for our lives to be lived perfectly.  The greatest commandment is to “love the Lord, your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.”  He simply desires for us to slow down and seek opportunity to serve others.  God has a purpose and a plan.  There are no coincidences.   

Who will we bless today?  How will we begin to leave a legacy?  A legacy that will lift Jesus higher?  As we live for today, may we choose to shine the light of Jesus in hope that others will see Him in a new and fresh way.  May we not pass by the person in need whom God placed in our path.  Let us live a life of legacy that lifts the Lord on high!


Matthew 25:37-40:
37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
40 “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’


Friday, May 18, 2012

H2O or H2H?


Recently, the Holy Spirit has been whispering, “Slow down.  You are going over the speed limit in life.”  He has been speaking through devotionals, speakers, authors, friends, counselors, and yes, His small, still voice.  Sometimes I feel as if I am a NASCAR racer.  There is a reward for the first person to finish that race!  Why is it that we treat busyness as a sign of success?  This question has been posed several times lately…through authors and speakers.  Craig Jutila acknowledges in the book he and Mary Jutila co-authored, “Jesus moved from the chaos of the crowd to quiet comfort; He went from a hectic place to a healthy pause.” (Pg 111 From Hectic to Healthy) Mark 6:46 reads, “After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.”  Although Jesus was perfect, He needed solitude and time to refuel…time with His Heavenly Father.  This was His living water….His H20.  Let’s face it, when we drink H2O, we feel replenished and reenergized.  A healthy lifestyle also replenishes and reenergizes.  In contrast, a hectic lifestyle depletes and diminishes.

The book, From Hectic to Healthy, (H2H) written by Craig and Mary Jutila is one method God has gotten my attention.  Craig and Mary utilize several acronyms that creatively help the reader to remember the techniques to living a balanced and healthy lifestyle.  Craig and Mary do not simply teach techniques.  They open their hearts and souls to the reader.  They authentically share how they are moving toward a healthy life.  They state emphatically, “This is not a destination, rather a journey.”

The Jutilas’ begin with “Understanding SPIN. (Seasons, Priorities, Isolation, & Neglect.  I especially loved the chapter on priorities.  Their authenticity made me realize that the priorities I desired were not the priorities I was living each day.  My desired priorities were not aligned with my daily routine. 

The section “Setting PACE served as a catalyst for change in my life.  PACE represents Practice Soul Care, Act Accordingly, Come Together, & Enjoy Life.  Wait!  It is acceptable to simply enjoy life?!  I am not sure I can define that phrase without attaching it to productivity, ministry, making a difference, etc.  Mary and Craig speak of laughter being like medicine.  I realized that I must leave room for laughter.  As my kids would say, “Lighten up, Mom!” 

If you struggle with feeling like you are a NASCAR racer or a gerbil running inside the wheel and there is no STOP ahead, I encourage you to read this book.  You will not be disappointed!  I would venture to say that an H2H life is just as vital to our soul as H2O is to our body. 

What is your obstacle keeping you from living a healthy life?  What is the ONE change you can implement to bring you closer to a healthy lifestyle?  Remember, “it is not a destination, it is a journey.” (Craig & Mary Jutila)

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” 
(Matthew 11:28-30)


Tuesday, May 15, 2012

M&M's: Mud to Masterpiece

Ever since I can remember, M&M’s have been one of my favorite treats.  It never occurred to me that God would use this sweet and satisfying candy to connect with my deepest, darkest humanness.  Isn’t that the way God works though?  He takes our trash and makes it beautiful in His perfect way!  Sour to sweet! 
He offers a “fresh start.”  He picks us up from the mud and creates a masterpiece...with His touch.  The Holy Spirit began speaking these words to my heart at our church picnic a couple of weeks ago.  I stood on the sidelines and watched my tenacious and adventurous associate pastor slide through a mud puddle.  He had one purpose:  to raise money for missions!  He was willing to get “dirty” for a ‘beautiful’ cause.  I watched from afar and visually could see his entire body covered in mud.  His beaming smile overpowered that ‘mud’ as he pointed to Heaven and shouted, “Praise You, Jesus!” 
The Holy Spirit continues to resurface this portrayal of mud.  God is so gracious to not leave me ‘stuck in the mud.’  He continues to whisper, “Your mud is My masterpiece.”
 This past Sunday, I was in the worship service for a matter of minutes.  Our guest worship leader spoke of how his daughter began running into the mud…he tried to stop her.  Too late…she ran faster and leaped into mud He began to hear his Heavenly Father speak tenderly, “She is just like you.”  I heard words of grace as he spoke…undeserving grace…but unconditional grace.  Grace that only our Father can offer.  Grace that offers complete freedom…the only catch…we must be willing to receive this.  We have power through the Holy Spirit who sets us free.  When we trust, that trust breaks through to complete freedom.  HOPE is found. 
One would think God would have broken through to the core of my being.  Not yet.  He spoke these words a third time.  I picked up the book,Fresh Start by Doug Fields.  I read, “We may think we’re unstuck, but we still have one leg deeply planted in the mud.”
For perfectionists like myself, it’s difficult to see past the mud.  It is difficult to allow God to remove the “mud.”  We feel we deserve to stay in the mud.  Maybe only one foot remains in the mud…but God wants to rescue us from the mud.  He wants to wash us clean and allow thatmud to mold into a masterpiece.  He wants to take our mud…and make a beautiful thing out of it.  He wants to give us a fresh start…each and everyday.  What is your ‘mud?’ How will you allow God to create a masterpiece?
Psalm 40:2, “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”