A Wall Of Water

12 Didn't we say to you in Egypt, 'Leave us alone; let us serve the Egyptians'? It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert!"
13 Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
15 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. 16 Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground. 17 I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them. And I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army, through his chariots and his horsemen. 18 The Egyptians will know that I am the LORD when I gain glory through Pharaoh, his chariots and his horsemen."
19 Then the angel of God, who had been traveling in front of Israel's army, withdrew and went behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from in front and stood behind them, 20 coming between the armies of Egypt and Israel. Throughout the night the cloud brought darkness to the one side and light to the other side; so neither went near the other all night long.
21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, 22 and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.
Exodus 14:12-22 New International Version (NIV)
Father, please have mercy...sustain me I pray.

Walk With Him

LET GOD BLESS YOUR DAY!

WALK WITH HIM, HE KNOWS THE WAY.

Giving Up Control

Do you canoe? I enjoy canoeing. I would like to do more canoeing in the future, but I realized something. I need to be able to give up control. "What do you mean?" You might ask...Well, I was at the cottage this weekend past with some friends and we went canoeing. I normally sit in the back and steer, this is what I have always done. One of my friends; however, suggested he sit in the back because he is heavier than me and he felt more comfortable in the back of a canoe. At first, in my mind, I resisted, thinking, 'Do I trust him to steer?' 'He doesn't know the lake, after all, and he is also visually impaired - legally blind, so how could he effectively steer the canoe?' I himmed and uhhhed for a few seconds and then I decided to give up my regular role of being in charge and let someone else lead.

It was difficult. Even as we started out, I wanted to steer from the bow. Instinctively I would use different J-strokes and drag my paddle to attempt to change the course of the canoe, but I was at the front and this behaviour didn't have the desired effect that it normally has at the stern. I realized that I was in a different place. A place that had a different role, not a less significant one, just a different one. I quickly understood that I needed to change my thinking from that of controlling the canoe to working with my partner effectively to navigate the water. I changed my paddle strokes and called out to my partner what lie ahead and whether we should make a gentle left or a hard right...When I took up this role, we began to canoe more smoothly and our strokes were stronger and we got further. That was when we could start to relax and enjoy the ride, the outdoors, and conversing. The ride ended up being great fun, once we knew and implemented our roles.

You know, my friend's visual impairment didn't even hinder us like I thought it might. In fact, it actually helped me to be more responsive to my role. I didn't have time to resist my role, I needed to step into it right away; otherwise, we would have run ashore or gone in circles. He knew his role and fulfilled it, I had to follow suit.

It was a good lesson for me. I like to lead. I naturally take the lead, especially if no one steps up to the plate. Sometimes though, I need to recognize that I am not meant to lead. Rather, I am called to follow and/or partner, not be the only one in control. I am more willing to fulfill this new role these days. ...It makes me wonder what God has in store for me - this lesson is preparation for something and I am willing to heed the lesson learned...

Chasing The Wind

Chasing after the wind is a futile thing.
Waiting for the wind to come around you is all you can do.
Imagining the coolness against your skin,
Removing the scorching heat even for a moment,
Seems to give you enough hope to carry on.
Chasing the wind is an impossible task.
Waiting, prepared to receive is all you can do.
How does one prepare?
Expectant. Confident. Content.
Existing in the moment knowing the wind will come.
Chasing to find the wind will lead you astray.
Waiting, not knowing when or how, but trusting.
The wind will come.
In gentle power, in strength controlled,
In awesome wonder.
It will be welcomed, arms out-stretched, face head on.

In the distance...listen...could it be?

Communication. Good-Bye.

Good-bye.


What?!! Where are you going?


Away.


Where?!


I am not sure yet.


Is everything okay?


Fine...I need to take some time to be by myself.


Why?


Because I need to hear the sound of silence.


Oh. ...When are you coming back?


When you see me again.

Struggle, Struggle, Strive...

There is a painting called "Forgiven" by Thomas Blackshear that I absolutely love. It speaks of the forgiveness that Jesus Christ has offered to all of us, even the one who pierced His hands and feet...I used to carry cards of this print and give them out when led...and I am not one for handing out literature, but I was so impressed with the message that the image conveyed that I wanted to share it with others.

The artist, Thomas Blackshear, has done something in his work that I pray I will one day be able to do consistently...he poured out his heart in his God-given talent to honour his King. I see many others do this also, the Brennflecks, Donna Lee, Oliver, Michael, Os, the nakedpastor...they are all working with their God-given talents to inspire others and honour God. (They are not all pastors either.) They work with what God has given them - the interest of their hearts - in the workplace and in the world, to do what they do.

Over the past few years, I have struggled (to say the least) with this notion of becoming a nurse. You see, I have always wanted to go to Bible College and work full time in a "pastor"-type position. This is the only way I thought I should serve God. But apparently my King has other plans. I was putting limits on where I thought I could best benefit the Kingdom of God, but I am recognizing now that God needs people in the work place, in every work place, from the construction site to the CEO's office to serve Him and bless others. And as we reflect the character of Christ, so that others will be impacted, it doesn't necessarily mean sharing the Gospel outright at first, but rather, loving people with the love of Christ, regardless of whether they want to know more about Jesus specifically or not. We leave the details to the Holy Spirit, in the mean time, we are called to honour God where we are. I know this is an old message, and perhaps you are shaking your head doing a "no-duh" moment at my 'revelation', but I mention it because I also have struggled with something else.

The church.

Where does the role of the church fit into our society today?

More and more, I am seeing churches, church buildings, becoming obsolete. The traditional form of church services are being shaken to their core...and many have fallen. Again, an obvious statement of fact that many veteran Christians are quite aware of, I know. The question is, what are we doing about it??

A friend of mine made an observation about our particular city. He said that the majority of churches are on the edge of the city where people are required to drive or take buses to get there and that very few churches are in the core of the city to reach out to those who do not have vehicles or the money to take the bus. This is an issue for several reasons, one of which is the churches outside the downtown tend to stay away from the downtown core - they do not see the needs that are there and thus do not extend their ministry there consistently, also, the people in the downtown core are not necessarily aware of these churches and have little interest in going out of their way to seek one out, especially on the edge of town.

There is also a whole (cross) generation of people that are absolutely turned off by the idea of attending 'traditional' church and will not even darken the door of such an institution! This is disturbing because, it is not that these people are not seeking, they have just shut out this particular venue as a consideration.

So, what do we do as the body of Christ? It is a no-brainer, really...get out of the pews and into the streets, right?! Maybe...Actually, serving our community by going out into the streets and addressing needs and sharing the Gospel is a good thing, but it is also not the only thing we can do. To do as Jesus did, we would take every opportunity to serve and minister to others in our neighbourhood, our workplace, our schools, etc. But few of us do this consistently. Why? We don't feel like it, fear, embarrassment, insecurities...the list goes on, I am sure. The thing is though, time is running out! As each day goes by, our lives become shorter (reality check!) and we are one day closer to the Lord's return. We don't have time to put off reaching out to our neighbours, friends, co-workers, family members...It is time to get out of the pews with our love for Christ and be the love of Christ in the world, our world, our mission field, our community, our backyard!

Oh wait...! One other place for ministry, for sharing the love of Jesus...THE INTERNET! This is a new mission field that opens up possibilities we could have never imagined! Whether it is through an encouraging email to someone, a word of blessing on Facebook, or a website dedicated to sharing the Word of God, there are countless opportunities to reflect the love and Truth of Jesus Christ!

The Church is changing. Traditional institutions are being challenged to transform to meet the needs of the people, not remain as is and expect the people to keep coming because "this is how we have always done it"...

For me, the struggle to accept that God could use me in the field of nursing just as powerfully as a pastor in a church, has taken me to a new level of understanding of how God works, again how I have boxed my God in -and how He is truly uncontainable...and how I need to maintain an open and teachable spirit, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead me and not depend solely on tradition.

Matthew 19:26 Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:25-27 (in Context) Matthew 19 (Whole Chapter)


The link to "Forgiven" by Thomas Blackshear - Check it out!http://www.blackshearonline.com/cgi-bin/globaltemplate.cgi?id=18

WORSHIP ~ Written by Ralph Waldo Emerson

This is he, who,
felled by foes,
Sprung harmless up,
refreshed by blows:
He to captivity was sold,
But him no prison-bars would hold:
Though they sealed him in a rock,
Mountain chains he can unlock:
Thrown to lions for their meat,
The crouching lion kissed his feet:
Bound to the stake,
no flames appalled,
But arched o'er him an honoring vault.
This is he men miscall Fate,
Threading dark ways,
arriving late,
But ever coming in time to crown The truth,
and hurl wrongdoers down.
He is the oldest,
and best known,
More near than aught thou call'st thy own,
Yet, greeted in another's eyes,
Disconcerts with glad surprise.
This is Jove, who, deaf to prayers,
Floods with blessings unawares.
Draw, if thou canst, the mystic line,
Severing rightly his from thine,
Which is human, which divine.

The Complete Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson - Volume VI - Conduct of Life (1860)

Where Did You Go?!

Where did you go...I miss you.

Communication. Be Real.

Be real.

What does that mean?

Stand for what you believe.

Sometimes I am afraid.

Afraid of what?

Well...I guess, a negative response.

Is what you believe worth standing for?

Yes.

Then you need fear nothing!

Crucified With Christ

There are three marks of one who is crucified:
One, he is facing in only one direction.
Two, he can never turn back.
And three, he no longer has any plans of his own.
~ A. W. Tozer

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:19-21 (in Context) Galatians 2 (Whole Chapter)

Did I Mention Cabin Fever?!

I am suffering illness right now, not fun. Just a cold that has managed to suck all, nearly all, my energy from me. But, I have also been out of commission for the past 5 weeks unable to work out, either at the gym or on the trail! Can you say cabin fever?! I had a mountain biking crash, which I might add, was so good that I won the award for best crash! If you are going to do something, give it your best right!?

Anyhow, this setback has made me realize a couple of things. First, I need to be around people. I like my alone time - definitely- but I also like to be around people - humans being made for relationship and all...it makes sense. Did I mention cabin fever?? Also, I miss working out. Like I have mentioned in the past, I can be very determined (when I want to be) and this translates into pushing myself too hard sometimes...the crash, by-the-way, was not a technical error - long story short - proper shoes are a must when mountain biking!

I was smart enough this time (yeah, I have had a few sports injuries...) to recognize that I really had to take time off from my regular workout routine in order to heal properly. This has been an absolutely excruciatingly painful (psychological) process, not being able to just go and do -I have had to exercise self-control and patience...easier said than done! I would test the waters every 4 or 5 days - go for a walk - 6km, a little too far...4km - more tolerable...around the block - that's where I am at...oi! Did I mention cabin fever?!

The nice thing about this whole experience has been the lack of running. If you had read my previous posting titled 'Michael' you would understand where I might be going with this; however, you may be surprised to read that during this time, despite previous grievances, I longed to run anywhere, for any amount of time, just go...! And I couldn't even do that! This is where I would like to bring in the life lesson. I have to admit that I am oh-so grateful that, normally, I can do all that I can do physically - I am truly blessed to be able to hop on my bike and take off through the trails for a few hours in the day or slip to the gym for a couple of hours and work different muscle groups (all-the-while listening to music or watching TV at that!). This time off has reinforced to me how many blessings there are in my life - my body, my city, my country, my family and friends...I am thankful for all of them! (And proper shoes too.)

Most of all, I am thankful that my crash wasn't as bad as it could have been...I am convinced God kept me from a more serious injury, despite my foolishness. What a God we serve! Thank you Lord Jesus!

Who? What??

Who are you?

What is your story??

Be at Peace My Dear...

Proverbs 19:21

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

Proverbs 19:20-22 (in Context) Proverbs 19 (Whole Chapter)

Roses are Red...

Roses are red...yellow, pink, and white,

Violets are blue...yellow, small, and slight,

You are mysterious...my heart's delight,

I wait for you...as these words take flight...

God speed your journey,

Be safe this night,

Bring peace my King,

Make a way with Your Light...

I wait for you as these words take flight.

I Only Let You See a Piece

I was going over my blog and realized the heaviness of most of my postings. I tend to be somewhat intense and not so light in my writing. I guess it is because I express lightness and joy right away - I release them - I celebrate the moment; whereas, when I need to deliberately unload the deeper, heavier issues, I write to release them.

This would be one of the downfalls to the Internet, you only see what the writer allows. If the writer chooses to hide or disclose selective information, the only way you would be able to truly know them is if you engage in a relationship by contact and dialogue. Sometimes, the character and personality of the author may differ in person compared to what is revealed online.

I write this blog with honesty. Some have commented to me that my writing makes them uncomfortable, it challenges them, they didn't realize I was so deep. I consider this a good thing, but what you read is only a part of me. If you are observant, you will see more about me than what I write, but you will still have limited vision and understanding until you engage in a relationship with me.

The question would be then, "Why would you want to engage in a relationship with me?" Good question. For some of you, the answer would be, "I don't want to engage in a relationship with you." (Your loss...I mean, choice...your choice.) For others, you wonder what I have to offer. Actually, for most people, when deciding whether to engage in a relationship with another person, they expect to get something out of that relationship - consciously and/or subconsciously. It is not necessarily a bad thing. The person may make you feel good about yourself, teach you something, give you money....there are many things you could get from a relationship, including heartache. But that's the chance you take, right? Except for those who choose not to engage in a relationship...they are safe from heartache...and growth, and prosperity, and ...well, you get the idea. It works two ways.


Starting a relationship can be as easy as saying "hello" and going with the flow of the conversation. (Of course, for it to be a "relationship", I would suggest that the persons involved would converse more than once and preferably no less than three conversations. Passing "hellos" do not count as a conversation!) Sometimes starting a relationship can be nerve racking, painfully embarrassing, or tragic in whatever measure. Those are perhaps the times where your first impression hit the ground like a watermelon dropped from a 10 story building. Not pretty.

Back to disclosure. How much should you disclose when you meet someone? It would depend on the nature of the relationship, right? So, establishing fairly quickly whether the person you are conversing with needs to know the latest excitement after consuming an extra spicy chili dinner is probably best reserved for your doctor as opposed to the unsuspecting blonde woman that stepped on to the elliptical to your right, regardless that she is a nurse and has heard, seen, and smelled (for that matter) far worse. There is disclosing...and then there is just too much information! Watch for that in your next conversation...otherwise, that will be one relationship that won't be happening...not without intervention, resuscitation, and perhaps a gracious sense of humour.

Sometimes you long for a relationship and for whatever reason, it did not happen. Do you pursue after it? Well...I would suggest that you pray about that. Nice answer eh?! Pray. This is more relevant than you might think at first. Praying could save you serious heartache and trouble. God sees each individual, their strengths and weaknesses, and He knows you. He also knows whether engaging in a relationship with a particular person will bless or burden you, or them. (Didn't see that one coming?? You can be a burden too.) God knows best and we would be wise to consult Him when pursuing a relationship, whether personal, business, or otherwise.

Do you have a relationship with God such that you could go to Him in prayer and listen to His response? Do you want a relationship with God? What will you get from engaging in a relationship with God??

Well, like me writing this blog (a comparison on a very different level! - I know), God has revealed Himself through the Bible. But not just there, He has revealed Himself in creation, through others...and He longs to engage in a personal relationship with each of us so we can know Him intimately. We need to start somewhere with a relationship and our relationship with God is no different. You can talk to God, but without reading His Word, you may not recognize His response to you. You need to get to know Him by reading what He has spoken through the Bible, through creation, through others, and the better you get to know Him, you will learn to recognize His voice when He speaks with you...And you will want that assurance when you inquire about relationships with others, especially when God tells you to not pursue a relationship with the guy who suffered the chili episode and you find out later that it wasn't the chili that was the problem, it was the illegal activity that he regularly engages in before and after the chili dinner...


The "chili" incident is entirely fictional, as I cannot print the story it is based upon, which I still shake my head at and thank God for His protection:)

~~~Aim High~~~

SOAR

Sunrise

For me, a sunrise is a beautiful reminder of God's hesed - lovingkindness. I look out in anticipation of the light that will assuredly appear.

Each time the sun rises, it brings new hope for a day full of delight, adventure, and growth. Even on stormy days, the sun still rises with a steadfast presence. And regardless of the presence of clouds, the colour of the sunrise is always spectacular.

A sunrise illuminates the dew on the spider's web, the branches of the maple, the calmness of the lake. It is a special, almost holy time of the day for me. I look forward to it knowing that in the waking moments of the new day, my God is with me, waiting for me to join Him.

Some people loathe waking in the early morning....and I used to be one of those people. It is funny, but about 8 years ago, I was praying about getting closer to God and I felt impressed to do 3 things. One of those things was to wake up early and spend time communing with God. I laughed. "Seriously God, you want me to give up my comfy, cozy bed to get up and sit in a less than cozy (compared to my bed) chair and commune with you?? Couldn't I commune with you from my bed? I'll just wake up earlier and we can commune together without any inconvenience to me."

Sad, yes, I know... The God of all creation, my King, my friend, my Saviour asked me to join Him in the morning and I whined about inconvenience! Oh, I groan inside as I recall my attitude...

And I won't lie, it wasn't until about 1 year ago (groan...) did I actually, regularly, get my sad sorry butt out of bed to meet the sunrise....and my God.

And now, I find my day is somehow lacking if I, for whatever reason, miss my sunrise rendez-vous with God. It is a special time...a time I cherish...and I would encourage others to rise to meet God at the break of day, it is a beautiful thing - in more ways than one.

Proverbs 4:18 The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. Proverbs 4:17-19 (in Context) Proverbs 4 (Whole Chapter)

Communication. Be Encouraged.

Be encouraged.


Why?


Because you are fearfully and wonderfully made.



What does that mean??





It means you are special, you are...



Whatever.



No, seriously. You were created by God and...



Uh-huh...whatever.



God loves you!



He'd be the only one.

He's the only one who matters...Read Psalm 139: 1-16

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm%20139:1-16;&version=65;

Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:16-18 (in Context) Zephaniah 3 (Whole Chapter)

Meet Zoey...

Another blonde beauty added to my family...She was left behind when some people moved from their apartment...We adopted her from the Humane Society. A German Shepherd/Lab mix - well behaved, intelligent, healthy, good with kids...

She is a blessing to us that we are very thankful for...our cat on the other hand is not so impressed...

A Hidden Gem

A dream I hold on to, where it leads - I don't know.

A mystery, a hidden gem, a royal treasure piece.

For now, it is tossed around like a marble in a child's pocket.

Who will end up with the marble? The game is fierce, it is not children playing.

Do they realize the treasure within the marble? Is that why they seek to own it?

The ground is not as smooth as would first appear.

Will anyone look closer to see?

Sweep away the obstacles or the marble will become nicked.

They don't see, no one will look closer, they don't care. It looks good from afar.

Wait! Who is that that watches outside the circle?

The game has escalated to a physical battle!

The marbles are scattered. Kicked and...wait...

It is him. He has picked up the marble and peers closely.

Safe in his hand, he begins to walk away.

He gently caresses the marble between his fingers removing any dirt.

His fingers seem to linger across every minute nick and scratch that was barely visible.

The marble becomes warm. So warm.

He has stopped now and removes the marble from his pocket.

He places it on a table with a slight dent in it, so as the marble does not roll.

It is almost as if the dent was made for the marble. How odd?!

He turns to get something...a hammer! No! Not a hammer!

The hammer is raised high. His muscles are strong. This will surely hurt!

With a mighty swing and a direct hit, the marble is shattered.

Why? Why? It was a pretty marble.

The nicks and scratches weren't that bad. Were they?

He blows the crushed and shattered glass away.

Why? What was the point in destroying the marble?

Wait...One piece of the marble has survived the blow.

He picks it up to analyze it.

He smiles. His eyes, they smile with a gentle knowing.

The marble is shattered, but somehow it will be okay.

Again, he caresses the left over marble between his fingers.

He is pleased.

What is left is not jagged. It is round and soon it will be smooth.

He begins to polish the piece. He sings as he does.

He enjoys his work. The piece is warm again.

After some time, he stops and peers closely.

It is beautiful! He smiles broadly and laughs with satisfaction.

The mystery revealed. A gem unhidden. A royal treasure piece.

It was his from the beginning. And now, it is his again.

This gem will never be snatched from his hand.

He will protect it ferociously. It is his! His alone.

The dream has become reality - and now I know I am home.

You Are Called...

Don't Hold Back...Don't Give Up...You Are Called...

Will you answer?

Laughter

There is something about laughter that is such a release...physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It is de-stressing and just plain enjoyable. Laughing does many things to your body...you take in more oxygen enriching your blood; immunogobulins and killer T-cells are increased, boosting your immune system; endorphins, feel good chemicals in your body, are released helping you de-stress; laughter positively affects diabetics, cancer patients, and heart patients among others; it is used in psychotherapy; in exercise programs to encourage weight loss (laughing can be quite a work out as you contract and release your muscles)....laughter classes are popping up all over the place, there is even Laughter Yoga!! Remember the movie "Patch Adams"? Robin Williams played a character that was based upon a real life doctor who uses humour and laughter in his medical practice, he was a pioneer in this area of medical therapy.

What makes you laugh? Seriously, think about it....Comedy Central? jokes? blooppers? Sinbad? your brother? (My brother is generally hilarious - cheap entertainment at its best:) Something that always makes me laugh without fail, is the sound of babies laughing. I smile now just thinking about it.

It is said that children laugh around 300 times in a day, while adults only laugh about 15 times in a day...and I don't know what defines "real" laughter, but I am guessing that the belly laugh that children so easily produce occurs far more often in a day than the belly laugh of adults. Come to think about it, I am not even sure that I laugh 15 times in one day! (...Not 15 belly laughs.) I will have to work on that. How about you? Improve your health, de-stress, and let yourself engage in hearty laughter! Remember that saying, "Laughter is the best medicine"? It is for your own good!


All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Please seek your physician before starting any exercise program.

Mercy is Falling

I am sitting here this morning listening to the sound of a heavy rain that is wonderfully calming.

As I listen to it, I am reminded of a song by David Ruis with lyrics that state, "Mercy is falling, is falling, is falling. Mercy is falling like a sweet spring rain. Mercy is falling, its falling all over me."

These words begin to paint a beautiful picture of God's mercy in our own lives.

Mercy is defined by Merriam-Webster's dictionary as, "compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power." It is an act that overlooks offense and precedes and/or accompanies forgiveness.

To show mercy to another is one of the most admirable actions a person could extend. To give mercy to another can be very fulfilling...but what about those on the receiving end of mercy?

What does it feel like to receive mercy?

The song mentioned is a simple repetitive song that continues..."Hey yo. I received Your mercy! Hey yo. I received Your grace! Hey yo. I will dance forever more!"

The person at the end of mercy has a choice to receive mercy or deny it. And, how often do you hear of someone denying the gift of mercy? Other than the odd few (mostly in fiction), most people receive mercy with gratitude. A need has been met. Sometimes it is a need that the person was unaware of until mercy was offered. Regardless, the response seems to be gratitude in each circumstance.

Continuing on...Gratitude... gratefulness - a thankful attitude.

How grateful are you when you receive mercy? How is your gratitude expressed? For the author of this song, he danced - and he will continue to dance. This is one happy cat! It makes you wonder what mercy was extended that would engage a man to want to dance forever!?

Well...let's step back...It would seem unreasonable for anybody to refuse mercy, wouldn't it? Especially if it was a matter of life and death, right? And yet, many do. These are not fictional characters. They are your friends, neighbours, co-workers, and relatives...perhaps you? The mercy offered here includes salvation, forgiveness of your sins, and reconciliation with God. The author has recognized that he, in his very core, was not right with God. He asked for forgiveness and reconciled with God. And don't forget, there was one other important item I mentioned in the receiving of this mercy...it was salvation. Salvation is the ultimate gift of mercy, to which rejoicing over should last forever! And it will last forever if you are saved.

How do you know if you are saved? ...You know, it is one of those things that a lot of people make more difficult than need be.

Romans 10:9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:8-10 (in Context) Romans 10 (Whole Chapter) Even a child can do this!

Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:11-13 (in Context) Acts 4 (Whole Chapter)

Ephesians 1:13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, Ephesians 1:12-14 (in Context) Ephesians 1 (Whole Chapter)

I specifically use scripture in this instance so that you may read for yourself what I believe and so you can choose to receive the Truth, receive mercy.

We have a loving God, who desires us to know Him. He is offering mercy....will you receive it?

A Word of Encouragement

Don't stop being you! You are a wonderful gift from God! You have much to give this world. Don't hold back!!! God is calling you to serve Him in ways you could have never imagined. He has made you the way you are for a reason - for His Purpose for you.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:10-12 (in Context) Jeremiah 29 (Whole Chapter)

The Lord is with you - remain in Him - He will guide and direct your steps and as you walk with Him, you will glorify His name. People will see and hear and turn their hearts toward God because of the work the Holy Spirit is doing in them and through you. Hold fast to the Truth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He is with you - He loves you dearly - You are His. Rejoice in the Lord, give Him praise and honour! Rejoice in the Lord! Rejoice!

Sadness

I know how she feels...

Communication. Help me?

Will you help me?

With what?

I can't say...

What?! Whatdaya mean "I can't say"?

I can't say - Will you help me?

I dunno...

Please?

Is it legal?

Of course!!

... Okay...

Thank-you my friend.

Another Reminder...Seeking

Should you then seek great things for yourself?

Seek them not.

Jeremiah 45:5Should you then seek great things for yourself? Seek them not. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the LORD, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life.' "Jeremiah 45:4-5 (in Context) Jeremiah 45 (Whole Chapter)

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness

Matthew 6:33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.Matthew 6:32-34 (in Context) Matthew 6 (Whole Chapter)

Who Is This Creature?!

I have never encountered anyone who could stir me from one extreme of thought and feeling to the other so ferociously! I have not even had a real conversation with this creature! And yet, there are times I want to yell in anger and frustration, and other times, I want to bask in the comfort and wisdom expounded. Who is this creature that stirs me so?! I want to know, yet I am not sure that I do.

I am not inspired by very many, in fact, I can count the number of people that have offered any inspiration to my life on one hand. 1..2..3..4...And with so few people able to stir my heart and mind, you would think that I would be quite resistant to include this creature to my list! Yet, there it is!! Inspired to do better, to aim higher, to love deeper....-----!

My prayer life has become very animated at times because of this creature...challenging me to draw all the truth of who I am out of my heart! The nerve!!! OI!

Does this creature have ANY CLUE WHATSOEVER as to the effect it is having on me??? Doubt it.

Who is this creature? I will tell you who this creature is....


The creature is only the vessel, it is its obedience to Ruach Qodesh that stirs my soul, that I can not ignore. I am drawn closer to who I am and who I am to be. This is a struggle, it should probably be less of one because I am a warrior - a regal warrior at that. I can not, I will not shrink back - I am called, regardless of the intensity of the battle...

The reality is, facing who I am - who I am to be, is intimidating at times. Sometimes I feel lonely in this spot, other times, strong and fearless. That is why this creature bothers me so...he has no idea how he is being used by our Father, oblivious to his impact on me a world away...and I can't tell him to stop...he wouldn't listen anyway. He is called to be who he is called to be; I respect that.

Why do I subject myself to his influence? Because, I am on a quest and he happens to be the vessel I need to drink from...he is also the vessel I am called to carry.

Just a Reminder...

I once had a wise and wonderful woman tell me, "I know that God has your deepest, truest, most holy desires in the palm of His hands, and He will not withhold them from you. At just the perfect time, He will shower His blessings on you, because what you most deeply want is what He most deeply wants to bestow upon you." Her words watered my soul so deeply with the Truth of God woven in her comment.

Isaiah 30:18Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!Isaiah 30:17-19 (in Context) Isaiah 30 (Whole Chapter)

I just needed to remind myself of this today...

SHALOM

SHALOM

Psalm 148

Psalm 148:13 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens. Psalm 148:12-14 (in Context) Psalm 148 (Whole Chapter)

A Part from The Journey

I am feeling as though the world around me is going to collapse any moment. Nothing makes sense. It is discouraging and frustrating. I am surrounded by fog. I am listening for the call, I am looking for the light, I am smelling for land, for water, for anything that might be of any comfort or help....nothing. I reach out to find my way and grasp nothing but empty air....breathe, remember to breathe...where am I? and how did I get here?? The last thing I remember, I was fine, moving forward...I could see the outline of something glorious and I was fixed upon it, moving towards it...What happened that I fell? ...Breathe...think...breathe...what do I do now...?

Where Would You Go With Me?

Would you go here with Me??
How about here?
...Here?

...or Here?

How about here?

Would you go here with Me?

Would you go here with Me?

Would you go here with Me??

Never will I leave you, nor will I forsake you...

Money Personified?

I recently came across a question that was posed about money. Michael Warden asked, "If Money were a person, how would you describe the nature of the relationship between you?"

At first, I brushed off the question with the thought that I didn't need Money...and our relationship would be indifferent, but then I read the question again.....Money personified...hmmm...

It would be unrealistic to think that I do not need money in our society. I don't think about money obsessively, I do think about it though...more now than when I was younger. Growing up, I watched my grandparents, aunts, and uncles generously provide for each other and for people outside our family regularly. If someone was in need, they found what was needed and gave it to them...cheerfully. That had a huge impact on how I view money and possessions. I always knew that if I was in need, my family would be there for me.

I believe Money is something to be respected. And though at times it has had influence over me, for the most part, I care for it. When it comes into my hands, I determine where, when, and how it should be spent. It is a give and take relationship. I do not hoard it (although I could probably learn to better invest it), I am willing to share it (others need it more than I do at times); the reality is that what I have can be taken away - I try not to take it for granted...sometimes I need Money and I am willing to work for it.

I have lived with very little and I have lived well off (comparatively speaking in my community) - even when I had very little I had more than 95% of the world's population. I made due with what I had...I was probably more regularly creative then and more tolerant in some ways (you know...with in-house visitors...moles, mice, bugs, even snakes...spiders were considered friends, the big ones were always named George - somehow the kids were less intimidated if the creature had a name).

Anyhow, I view money as a tool. If I do not have the right tool, I get creative and find a substitute or if no substitute can be found, I wait for God to provide through family, friends, or mysterious circumstances (it has happened, but that's another story).

Money personified - we could be friends...we could be strangers passing by each other with a glance between us...we could be partners...Money could control me, if I let it...Money could be a teacher to me...I could be Money's caretaker...Money could be a real jerk, seducing me with false promises...No matter how I imagine money, I still see it as a tool. A tool that can help or hinder me depending on how I handle it. Like I said, there is an amount of respect that is due money, in the sense that, how you choose to make money a part of your life can bless you or destroy you. It is your choice. I choose to trust God, not Money.

1 Timothy 6:10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.1 Timothy 6:9-11 (in Context) 1 Timothy 6 (Whole Chapter)

Forgiveness

Recently, I had someone come to me to ask for my forgiveness. Ironically, the thing they were asking for forgiveness for I was familiar with, having engaged in the same activity in the past.

Now, even though I was bothered by what had happened, I realized that I could not condemn them for the same thing that I had done - I am no better than that person. "We all sin and fall short of the Glory of God." Rom. 3:23

I immediately forgave them.

This all well and done until they brought up the offense several times in the conversation following. I needed to reassure them that I had forgiven them.

Have you ever done that? You have felt so guilty about something that you have done, that even when the person you have offended forgives you, you cannot forgive yourself?

It happens all the time...guilt, shame, self-condemnation...

Don't wallow there.

Move on...Forgive yourself...Learn from your mistakes...And hopefully you will not commit the same offense again....And you will be able to offer your wisdom and forgiveness to others in the future.

Michael...

Yeah...So, I had an appointment with my fitness trainer, Michael, to revamp my program and my goals. Together we determined what I wanted to accomplish over the next few months and, he, (being Michael), comes up with a wonderful plan to reach my goal.



First of all, a little about Michael...he is good at what he does (and it shows), he knows me well enough to know how to challenge me, and he is patient (he doesn't let me sidestep any of my regimen, no bs allowed) --- I like this, I respect him for these qualities, among others. That being said, I was ticked at him today!



Today, the best program for me to reach my goal includes (of all things) RUNNING!!! ARG!!!



In case you missed the tone of that last sentence....I do not like running. If I had to run, I would consider cross country running - its fun, interesting, and challenging....but running on a treadmill or on pavement for that matter, has got to be the most mind numbingly BORING exercise!!!


Notice the picture - NO ONE is smiling or looking even remotely happy!!!


Oops...did you hear that?? That was the growl of every runner/jogger that takes some perverse pleasure from running on a treadmill, or road, or hamster wheel - whatever, as they prepare to rebuke me with strong words to their defense.


Okay...Okay...my words were harsh, I know...and running can actually free up your brain for working through whatever dilemma-du-jour, helping a person relax both physically and mentally...actually, I have a lot of respect for runners who can run for more than 10-15 minutes...envy? perhaps...And running really is one of the best ways to get your heart in shape...And one of the best ways to lose body fat overall...yada yada...


Sigh...I am resisting...I am resisting that which I need to face and conquer. So...I cannot rant any longer - I need to stand tall, change my attitude, and run. Not away from this task, I need to take on this running business as a challenge that will help me become stronger, more fit. And one day, I may be able to encourage someone else who is in the same situation as I am in now, and I will be able to say, "I stopped resisting, I took up the challenge, and I conquered it...so can you!" (Can you hear the music in the background...place your hand over your heart if you really want to get into the mood...)


Okay - Seriously, I will change my attitude, I will try to find some enjoyment in this running program, and I will reach my goal. I will not be defeated, I am an overcomer...(the music is starting up again, I guess I should quit while I am ahead)....MAN, this is going to take some serious work just to change my attitude...I will do it though, I must, I want to reach my goal!



Strangely, I am reminded of this scripture....
1 Corinthians 9:24Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.1 Corinthians 9:23-25 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 9 (Whole Chapter)

Who says God doesn't have a sense of humour....

Communication. Starting Over...

Hello?...Can we start over?

...(silence)...

Please?!?...Please forgive me.


...I forgive you.


Thank you. I needed you to forgive me...


Why?


Because I was foolish to speak the way I did.


We all make mistakes.


...(silence)...


You have my forgiveness, you need to forgive yourself...

...And We Have Blossoms!!!

New apple blossoms unfolding from my apple tree...Horray...(the story is below).

My Apple Trees...How They Came To Be...

I like to garden. I love getting my hands dirty; I love the colours of the flowers and the leaves, the smells each produce, and the textures produced from the smallest petal to the largest tree as a whole.

Gardening has been a part of me right from my earliest memories. I lived with my mom and my grandparents for the first 4 years of my life, and I remember going out to the vegetable garden with my Poppa to weed and harvest the produce. Poppa would work away and I would usually abscond a cucumber and plop myself down in between the rows of veggies and munch away. If it wasn't a cuc, it was beans, or peas, or carrots, or strawberries, or...whatever I could get away with. Poppa was very good about me helping myself...Grandma on the other hand, was not as forgiving - especially when I decided the pea patch would be my target!

We had gooseberries too...oh, those were the days...

Later on in life, my dad's mom - Grandma Pat - had a very prosperous garden center where I learned even more about plants, furthering my love for gardening. I would work in the garden center planting seeds in the spring in the greenhouse, and unless you have been in a hot, humid - filled with new growth, greenhouse, you may not appreciate the delightful earthy fragrance that would be reminicent of a rainforest, or even a forest on a hot muggy day after the rain. Either/or, the smell was very pleasant to me.

Grandma Pat's father started the garden center and Campbell's Garden Center still stands today. The location of the center has moved from by the river to out to the highway, but it remains in the family with my aunt continuing the business.

It was Grandma Pat's father who bought apple trees from an orchard nearby and planted the parent tree to my trees below. The apples are like a Mackintosh but they are actually a heritage apple whose name Grandma Pat can not recall.

From the parent tree, which is about 100 years old, I took 66 apples and buried them in my garden. In the spring, I had 6 seedlings. Of the 6 I gave 4 away and kept 2. For the past 6 years I have babied my trees. When I moved to my current location, I couldn't decide where to put the two trees, so I kept them together. Four years later, I was afraid to dig them up to separate them, so I left them and I forged ahead, bravely pruning them this spring...

And look!!!! I have buds!!! I will have blossoms!!!!
The picture is not the best, but when the flowers begin to bloom, I will take a better pic.

I could not be happier! I didn't think that my trees were going to blossom so soon (they have been through 2 moves, less than optimum soil conditions at times, and a newbie pruner). People kept telling me they would not blossom for another few years...Ahh, I am pleased. I normally do not 'baby' my plants. If they do not thrive under normal conditions, including drier-than-normal, then I do not replace them....harsh, but practical. My apple trees were different. They carry a heritage, a positive memory trigger to my youth, they are the result of my diligence and care. I will continue to nurture my trees and I look forward to the fruit they will produce...with great pleasure, I look forward to their fruit! I will keep you posted on their progress...

Communication. Helllooooo!!!??!

What are you trying to say?

Blah, blah, blah.

What?!??

Yada, yada.

I don't understand!

Hughn, hmm, blachk.

Speak clearly! Elucidate! I DO NOT UNDERSTAND!

...(silence)...

Oh.

Love Beyond Fear...

Barbara Chester, a psychologist, who directed
the first U.S. center for rehabilitation of torture victims in
Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1997 wrote:
"Torture is an act that defies the boundaries of language. We reserve the
thought to express an anguish deeper than pain. Ultimately, however,
working with torture survivors has taught me that the fact of pain beyond
pain leaves only the hope of uncovering a calm, healthy, and entire soul
within a distressed and devastated body that if there is pain beyond pain,
there is also tranquility beyond reason, faith beyond injustice and love
beyond fear."

(Written in an unfinished book, Mercy Has a Human Heart,
halted by her death at age 47 from cancer).

Sexual Assault

The following is an excerpt from the Northview Pentecostal Church blog (link under 'My Blog List').

“A young woman, slightly unkempt with tear stained cheeks is sitting in the back of a police cruiser, in the middle of the night. She is told that she will have to be transported to a community two hours away from her home and she bursts into tears again. "I am not the criminal here!"Likely story you might say if you read the above without the context. In fact, she is not the criminal in this situation she is the victim, a victim of a sexual assault and because there are no specially trained personnel available to help her in her home community the trip is necessary.As a woman I am disgusted. Imagine having been violated in such a violent way, sexually. This young woman is no doubt upset, she has bruising in very private places on her body, private places that she would only share in very intimate or medical situations.These parts of her body are also filthy with the body fluids of the man that did this to her.As a person who is involved at arms length with victims of sexual assault I can say that this type of situation is the norm!There are many holes but this is where the story can begin.” ~Lynn

"The above note/posting came from a friend of mine. It describes the situation that a young lady has faced after the Rape she endured.It happened in Saskatchewan. The place that it took place in is not large. To do the proper investigation they must do in a proper way to not lose valuable evidence. Virtually the young lady is the “crime scene” and must be handled properly or when the potential court case and conviction is sought, the criminal will be set free.During the court case her testimony is vital and so is the evidence. When it is over and the results of the case have concluded – the person who did the assault/rape – is dealt with by sending him to jail. But it is far from over for the woman.The fears and nightmares that she will experience will be unending – perhaps for a life time. The first raping by the man is horrific. The second raping is potential by the system that handles her.In the account given by Lynn she is made to sit in the back of the Police Car for two hours while traveling to a bigger center that deals with this issue more often.Put yourself in her shoes and in the back that Police Car – alone and dirty – defiled by someone she either knew or didn’t know. Who will she cry with or scream at in those long two hours? No one is sitting with her as she is the “evidence”.Why am I passionate about this?Well as a person that cares… I care all the time – not just up to the court case and through the court case. It is long after that when no one listens or even seems to be there…when all the pieces that were shattered and dreams that once were have evaporated… I find the person struggling to exist or even stay alive.Jobs are hard to hold after a rape. Family is hard to enjoy after you have been violated. And as much as the individual tries to “get on with life” – or suck it up and move on – that horrible half hour will never leave. We need to do all that we can to help the victim of these crimes. Mr. & Mrs. John and Jane Public read about the arrest and the trial in the newspaper days later it has happened. Then are moved slightly by what they read…but then skip to the next article on the page about the price of chickens, the fact that a politician is in trouble and that real-estate prices are climbing. Simply the public never really knows what goes on or how people are treated. That is wrong! We need to know. We need to understand. We need to care. So what has that to do with church and God and Christian and all that stuff? As a pastor I would suggest that we really need to get out of our comfortable pew and do something. I can guarantee you that it will years before this young lady darken the door of a church or sits in one of our pews with her pain. Can I suggest in a very loud voice – “FOR GOD’S SAKE AND THE SAKE OF THIS YOUNG LADY DO SOMETHING!”~ Pastor Murray Lincoln ~"

My Response:
I hear you. I am currently taking a course where I am politicizing around sexual assault, and I am also writing a paper on torture. Sexual assault is a form of torture where the perpetrator is attempting to exert control over the victim. The victim has many issues to deal with after the violation, one of the main ones being the issue of self-worth. Acknowledging that the violation was NOT their fault; that they did NOT deserve this, is of upmost importance in helping the person begin the road to healing! So often, we don’t really know how to respond to a person who has been violated because we feel uncomfortable in acknowledging the reality of their circumstances such that we avoid reaching out or we reach out mechanically not allowing ourselves to respond with any emotion. Sexual assault is tragic. It is something that we should get angry about. It is something that we should mourn over...people - adults and children, are being hurt, abused!! It is wrong and we need to come around those who have been in this situation with compassion, gentleness, and sensitivity so that we become part of the solution, not a contributor to their pain. The treatment of this girl, because she was continued to be treated like an object (as "evidence"), compounded the wounds inflicted upon her and prolonged the healing process! I cannot emphasize enough that acknowledging that the person DID NOT DESERVE to be violated, that the person has worth, is so very instrumental in the healing process. I know...I speak from an experience of being assaulted and personally working through the process of healing. Everyone has worth. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and reach out with the love of Jesus Christ and be a part of the healing process.
~MistiPearl
Romans 12:15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.Romans 12:14-16 (in Context) Romans 12 (Whole Chapter)