Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Roommates!!

I cannot believe I haven't shared this answer to prayer yet! God brought two incredible roommates to me to fill this house. They love Jesus, people, and Marion. They stayed in Marion because of their heart for the Lord and the desire to minister in a real and incarnational way. Need I say more? It's an answer to prayer and only God can work things out in a way that every side from landlords to each person living here feels that they got the best end of the deal. :)

Sunday, October 26, 2008

THANK YOU!

Thank you Carpenter's Hands!!! An Awesome work day shoved us so much further ahead in work on the MICO house. And we have other interested people lined up. Praise GOD for the help especially as it's getting colder. Pray that we can have a couple nice nice days to get the outside coat of paint on and that kids and set programs will be able to run by mid-november, and that we can continue to raise funds to make this house durable and something to be proud of for a long time to come. :) God bless!

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Dining room church has a nice ring to it. We just had another one tonight right here!
There was 'church' the other night with about 8 of us, same age, playing games, sharing thoughts, encouraging one another, etc.
There was 'church' tonight with Sandy, her nephew, and her uncle just stopping by and getting on the topic of the Word. We talked about truths from the Bible and read Scriptures, learning to interpret what it says straight from what is in the book(okay, so little nephew, Chris was just looking at cards and wondering when this boring talk would stop) But really - I did the listening, and I learned a lot, and I was blessed. From home, people probably think I'm leading bible studies, etc. Maybe because I'm a Taylor Grad. Maybe because I moved in for youth ministry. Maybe because I used to be known by some as the "church lady". I'm learning and searching out God just like everybody else. There is a time to teach and a time to be taught. And every time is one to discern.
But, I guess it also taught me tonight to never underestimate the knowledge and wisdom that someone has. Christ grabs hold of people's hearts wether it be in jail, in a church, or in their private room. But when He does, and when they pursue Him hard, He always shows up and sheds light on the truth. From these people and others that press in for truth, we can learn So much! And continue to be challenged to do the same. I hope we don't sell others short when we first look at them or their background.
I learned today about a book called ABC Community Development. Asset Based Community Development. What are the assets of the people already there? Find them out then start using them... I like that. Simple, smart.
It's time to stand up though... I'm tired of what some kids have to deal with... Satan's had too much range to move in for too long. It's time to remind everyone that Christ is the head.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

what?

Today I saw too many super nice large buildings waiting for kids to come fill them to make sense.
Today I was encouraged by a pastor with a big heart to serve his community.
Today I met with a mentor who never ceases to make my logistics questions fade away in light of talking about who Jesus is.
Then I came back to my house where about 8 kids were ready to watch a mentee of mine fight at least one of them. what's it like to kick them all off your porch and still they know you love them? What's it like to try to teach them respect in a nutshell and the sweet ones you usually play games with declare they respect no one, not even their mom. what do you do with all that? there's only so much talking over their voices you can do. I feel like subbing came home with me. Hmm!
Praise God though. He crafted each one. Let's keep reminding them that and hope they start living out their identity as Jesus' children soon!

Thursday, October 2, 2008

tips of the day

Today was a BEAUTIFUL fall day! The kids had half days of school, so you better believe they were out and about.
I learned today...
1) Do not think that it's easy enough to stay on a tarp when painting. Cover and tape everything that you do not want to be speckled a different color at the end.
2) ALWAYS stop 15 minutes early and make everyone help. They'll run away from the mess before you can even mention clean-up- they're kinda like phantoms in and out! (I know, I know - I should've known).
3) The GAME: Protect the President (A more low key dodgeball) is Perfect for any age! All kids in large circle. One in middle is president, the other is the body guard. Use one ball. Whoever from the circle hits the president without the body guard blocking the ball gets to be president. President moves to body guard spot. Body guard goes back in circle.
4) Eph. 1:17-23 reminds me that our eyes are enlightened to see the Hope and Glory and Inheritance that comes with knowing the Father. Enlightened eyes do not help us see more issues to address, they show us the vision and hope!

Much love.