The Day After Christmas

Twas the day after Christmas and all through the house,

were papers and dishes--I tried not to grouse.

Remnants of parties and presents and friends,

caused my rigid sense of order, so slightly to bend.

My prayer sent to heaven with thanks for my blessings,

asking strength for the day and a freedom from stressing.

Soon the mess will be cleaned and the home set aright,

but until then, it need not give me a fright.

For disorder, you see, is a sign my house lives,

and hospitality is one of the gifts we can give.

So, in the days that fly by between now and New Year,

I wish you and your family an abundance of cheer.

Reflect on the joy you’re equipped to provide,

and make your heart light as you open doors wide.

 

Waiting For What Matters

Once again, I find myself in a position of waiting.  I never really like this place.  You think I'd be more comfortable with this space.  After all, I seem to do it quite often.  But, just as a waiting room is never your final destination, our position in life's timetable is never permanent either.  

I was going to reference the Dr.Seuss poem "The Waiting Place" and insert the iconic image of his strange cartoon people waiting.  But, curious about what other "waiting" images there were out there, I began to explore, and was struck by the fact that this "condition" is universal.  Time and again, through art and photographs, human kind has been captured waiting  We all wait.  Some of us for things of great importance in our careers or situations, others for the simple necessities of life. 

Scroll through the images and take a moment to reflect on the saying "The best things in life are worth waiting for."  After my image search, my frustration with waiting seems to have been greatly diminished. 

Husaybah, Iraq (Dec. 15, 2005) - Iraqi citizens wait in line at a polling site in the city of Husaybah, Iraq to vote during the country’s first parliamentary election. Iraqi citizens elected their first permanent parliamentary government, which will lead the new democracy for the next four years. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Sheila M. Brooks (RELEASED)

 

 

…

Photo by Rod Waddington.  Ethiopia

 

Photo by Charles O'Rear.  1941  Waiting for a train outside the station at Albuquerque, NM

Photo by Jennifer Murawski. The lone salaryman gets sent out to reserve a picnic spot for the office during cherry blossom viewing season. They usually show up before 9am to just sit there all day long in suits, alone until everyone else shows up, probably after 5-6pm.

Photo by SGT Zach Sheely.  Family members wait for U.S. Soldiers with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment, Kansas Army National Guard to arrive during a homecoming ceremony Sept. 7, 2014, at Forbes Field in Topeka, Kan. Soldiers with the unit returned home after a 10-month deployment to Afghanistan.

Why I Cleaned Up Their Mess

Running the social media pages for Son Broadcasting, I come across lots of cute sayings, Tweet-worthy quotes, and pictures of everything from cats to vacations.  There are no lack of videos of people wiping out on skateboards, or elephants painting pictures.  Most of it doesn't catch much of my attention.

Today however, I came across a Spanish language (with subtitles) commercial/video for IKEA.  It made me cry and once again caused me to ask myself how I am spending time with my children.

We have some good laughs together.  There are countless conversations about choices, boys, homework and character.  Yet, I was convicted that much of my time with them is distracted.  The demands on my time are heavy, and I find myself spinning more plates than I probably should. 

When I came home at lunch time today, I found the kitchen wrecked.  The girls had obviously made cookies before they left for school.  But, based on the caked-on remains that covered the cookie sheets, it was evident that they hadn't been very successful. 

My options were: leave the mess and make them (rightfully so) clean up the kitchen after school or clean it up myself and allow time for us to make a successful batch of cookies this afternoon.  I'm not suggesting that the lesson be "leave your mess, and let mom pick it up" but after weighing my options, I choose planned, purposeful, uninterrupted time with my children this afternoon. 

They will learn how to do dishes and to pick up after themselves.  But the only one who can teach them to have a great relationship with their mother is me! 

The Gift of Freedom

And, they’re off!  American shoppers began lining up Thanksgiving Day to take advantage of discounts and special offers for Christmas.  Maybe you got lucky and scored a few great deals yourself.  While you may know exactly what to get some of the people on your list, I’m guessing that shopping for your spouse isn’t all that easy.  It’s sometimes those we know the best that are the hardest to shop for.

I have a theory, that the more intimate the relationship, the more difficult it is to come up with a meaningful gift.  Sure, they may love a new gaming console, giant TV or iPhone, but it isn’t what they really need.  When it comes to our spouses, we usually can’t wrap up their heart’s desires. 

Perhaps, what they most need is assurance that they are loved.  I haven’t found that on Amazon yet.  Maybe the real issue is that they need to feel respected and heard.  Walmart was out of stock.  Even Target was a bust when it came to finding validation and motivation. 

In all seriousness, one gift that millions of men and women are craving is simply, freedom.  To be set free from addiction to drugs or alcohol is a dream.  Maybe the struggle lies in overeating or self-doubt.  For a huge number of both men and women, they want freedom from pornography. 

Porn is destroying marriages and lives at an alarming rate.  You won’t find many people that would say “I want to stay lost in this dark, seedy world.”  That’s because porn is a mirage.  That allure and excitement that first pulled them in, led to a world without life; no rest, no shade, no water that ever satisfies.

There is a tool out there, to help those struggling with porn.  It’s software from X3watch that offers accountability and resources, while providing a block to inappropriate content on all internet connected devises.  This program is designed to help provide the freedom that so many are craving.

This may be a gift you can give your spouse.  Or, maybe it’s a gift you give yourself.  Sadly, porn has reached its dirty hands into the lives of men and women, in every age group and defied all socioeconomic bounds. 

If you are ready to deal with porn addiction head on, click here . Let X3watch help you in this quest for freedom.  As you celebrate the Christmas season, let X3watch help restore hope to your family. Begin the journey of healing and come to know what a gift it is to be set free.

A Willing Chauffer

Oh, how much can change in a week’s time!  Last weekend, I was deeply immersed in the experience of watching God at work through my dear friend Carlene Prince, who had come to share her testimony and music at the Son Broadcasting banquet.  Since I dropped her off at the airport, we’ve had Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and many of my neighbors have put up their Christmas lights.  Before the memories of last weekend’s events succumb to the busyness of the season, I wanted to be sure to capture some important thoughts.

Have you ever been host to a guest who relied on you, not just for food and lodging, but for transportation as well?  Then you will know that you must lay down your own schedule, and normal routine for the sake of that guest.  If this guest is a person of influence/importance, then your time table must defer to that of the guest.  This was the case last weekend.  By no means am I suggesting that it was a burden or unpleasant.  I simply mean to set the stage for a greater understanding of a beautiful God moment.

Sitting in the “audience” at Abundant Life Christian Center in Belen, I had a jealous thought pass through my head.  As I was watching Carlene share her music, I wished that I could be used in such a way.  I wished I was more than just her driver.  I must pause to say that my confession of jealousy is real, but God, in His goodness allowed me only a moment to stay in self-pity.  He quickly showed me my role in His Kingdom work, and how even drivers play a very important part.    

From church we went out to lunch with Pastor Barney and his wife Sandi.  This conversation was full of life and Spirit and encouraged my heart.  Through my brother and sisters in Christ, the Lord affirmed me, and reminded me that my desires, my prayers, and my talents were important to Him.  I have no doubt that this lunch meeting set the stage for future ministry work that only God could have woven together. 

The weekend I served being Carlene’s driver was necessary to remind me of important principles.  First, I should never be too proud to carry out any job that the Lord has assigned me to.  After all, it isn’t (and shouldn’t) be about me.  Secondly, the tapestry that God is weaving together with the treads of my life, may have looked scattered and disjointed, but I was reminded that I was standing on the wrong side of His work.  What, to my natural eyes looked like nonsensical patterns and colors, was the back side of the weaving.  Had I been in front, observing the masterpiece for what it is, I would have seen purpose, design and artistry!

This last week, a classic movie continued to come to mind.  The 1954 version of Sabrina, with Humphrey Bogart and Audrey Hepburn, is the story of a rich family with two sons, and the intrigue/love story that plays out with the chauffer’s daughter.  While it’s a cute romantic comedy, I couldn’t help but think of one of the closing scenes with Sabrina’s father, the chauffer.  With a grin on his face, he gives the stunning news that he has become quite wealthy.  Throughout the years, he’d listened closely to the business dealings that had transpired in the back seat of the car he was driving.  He learned when to buy and sell stocks, and came to learn about investment opportunities that a man of his position “shouldn’t” know.

God needs willing drivers.  I want to not just be obedient if He calls upon me to chauffer, but to carry out the task with a willing, cheerful heart, ready to see what I can learn on the drive.  If you have been put in a position to serve as a support to someone else’s ministry, don’t grow weary.  God is so good, and knows your heart, desires and giftings.  Allow this season to be one of great growth and education as you learn from those He’s called you to drive. 

1 Corinthians 12 (various verses):
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. . . . For the body does not consist of one member but of many.  If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.

Watching God Work

Yesterday morning, I sat among 20 colleagues, friends and ministry leaders at a special breakfast.  This was on the heals of the Son Broadcasting banquet, which had been just the night before.  Directly across from me was Congressman Steve Pearce.  The fact that this man has become a friend, is a God story all its own.  To my right, sat a woman who has become so dear to my heart, Carlene Prince.  Both of these remarkable people had been guest speakers at the banquet.

The Congressman began to tell a story: "When I was in Jordan, talking with the King. . . "  I just had to laugh.  What a strange and beautiful way God has connected people from around the world.  I don't have time to share all the details of the story, but at the end, he grinned and told Carlene that she should perform for the Jordanian King when he visits Hobbs, NM.  Somehow, I don't doubt that this will happen one day.

At the banquet, it had been my role to introduce Carlene to the audience.  I was able to take a moment to share a mini version of how so many prayers had been answered through both Carlene and Congressman Pearce. 

My prayers for provision for a broadcasting conference had been met indirectly through the actions of these two.  I had prayed a big, bold prayer that God would provide the means for me to travel to Nashville for the NRB (National Religious Broadcasters) conference.  He did it, and in wild and extravagant ways. 

I had been praying for a friend.  Someone with whom I could really connect.  Someone who could understand me and love and understand my weirdness.  He did it, and through NRB, brought me a sister in Christ, and a dear friend, Carlene.

I had prayed that the platform God had given me, through radio and speaking, would be used to bless and encourage others.  After the banquet, I got several comments that others had been affirmed through my remarks.  He did it.

This morning, I will be driving Carlene down to Belen, NM to speak and sing at a church.  After the banquet, a pastor had sought her out, and asked if she would be willing to come minister at his church before she had to leave town.  Feeling God at work, she agreed, and soon we will travel to see Him do something amazing once again.

Carlene has an incredible voice, and is in the process of recording her first CD.  She has a big, bold faith that God is going to provide.  I'm excited to watch with her, as He uses His people to provide for all her needs.  If you would like to be part of her answered prayer, you can contribute to her project here: http://www.gofundme.com/carleneprince

I pray that you are encouraged, knowing God is at work, and is in the business of answering prayers.  I have to cut this short, as we get ready to hit the road, with eager expectation of what God is going to do through this brand new day.

The Hoarder's House

About a month ago, I got a call to inform me that someone who I'd known since childhood, had been admitted into the hospital.  The diagnosis is cancer, and there have been many complications that have led to a prolonged hospital stay.

This individual has a cat, and my father, being compelled to make sure it was ok, went to the house to check up on it.  What was discovered when he first walked through the front door was something that has literally caused him nightmares. The sick man is a hoarder.

I've heard about hoarders, and may have even seen a few minutes of a TV special about them.  But, to walk through one of these houses, is something that affects you--deeply.  There is a spirit of despair and defeat in the air.  The dust is so thick, the contents of the home so dirty, that you feel contaminated just standing there.

God bless my parents!  They have been working a few hours each day to begin to clear out the years of newspapers and debris. They've made amazing progress.  I, along with my husband, sister, some extended family and friends, have also put in many hours of work.  We've finally gotten to the point where we can uncover surfaces (counters, tables, floor) and what we have found is disgusting. 

My point in writing this account is not to shame or accuse this man.  Something is horribly wrong in his mind if he is unable to see the damage to/danger of his own home.  To let years pass by, without asking for help, has likely kept him in a prison of shame and paranoia of discovery. 

For as long as I've known him, this man has put on an air of pride and arrogance. I of course, had never seen his house prior to this, but many times he'd been over visiting my parents, I'd see him and heard his loud objections to many of the tenants of our faith and values.  It turns out, this very vocal and difficult man, was hiding a big, dirty secret. 

I'm not sure what to expect the next time I see him.  Will there be embarrassment and humility in his eyes?  Will there be angry defiance?  No mater what transpires, I know that I will never be able to view him in the same way.  For me, what once was an irritated annoyance at his personality, has been transformed into a sympathetic wonderment.  What type of sadness or hurt has plagued his life?  What has it done to his spirit to hide this secret for so many years?

We've all heard the expression "Don't judge a book by its cover."  This of course, can be directly applied to people, and their sometimes rough and ragged exteriors.  I've been reminded once again, that some of the most difficult people we encounter, are those that need the most love and help. 

Finally, it makes me even more thankful for a close-knit group of people who love and care about me.  If something in me were to "snap", they would jump in and intervene before things got out of hand.  For this man, he had no one who he trusted enough, to really allow them into his life. 

Let us all take a second look at those people who rub us the wrong way.  It just may be someone who desperately needs our tenderness and compassion. 

Running Someone Else's Race?

Today is the Duke City Marathon.  It's the largest running event in the State of New Mexico.  Several thousand people come out to participate in a variety of running events from a 5k walk to the full Marathon. 

Last year, I was training for the 20K walk. I had intended to participate, but financially had to forgo registration when the time came around. I was disappointed, but exercise is rarely in vein.

Then, a few days before the event, my co-host, who had been planning on participating in the 20K, pulled a muscle and was unable to attend.  He offered me his bib and registration which I gladly accepted.  Because organizers of the event did not allow for registration transfer, my timing chip referred to a 59 year old man.

Runners are tough.  They train hard and are dedicated and passionate.  But don't you think that long distance walkers are softies.  This group of hard core pavement pounders blew me away.  To give you a little idea about how fast these guys (and gals) are trucking, the winner came in at 2:06, making her pace just over a 10 minute mile!

The day of the race came quickly, and I gave it my all.  There was an older gentleman in very short red shorts that I found myself chasing almost the entire way.  At the half-way mark, I was running short on steam, but willed myself to keep trucking, trying not to loose my pace. 

Finally, the last mile marker was in sight.  That alone gave me renewed energy. That guy in the red shorts was starting to slow and I saw my chance. I kicked it into high gear and pulled ahead.

When I crossed the finish line a few minutes later, I was exhausted, but so very happy to have finished the race.  But, the MC didn't announce my name, undoubtedly because he was quite confused when my bib number correlated with a man named Dan.

A few hour later, when the results were posted, I looked down the list to see how I had done.  Much to my surprise, I had come in almost 10 minutes faster than I had anticipated.  Even better than that, I had won the Men's Masters Division!  Take that, guy in the red shorts!

When I called and excitedly shared the news with Dan, we had a good laugh about it.  Being honorable, he called the officials and let them know that it hasn't been him, racing under that bib number.  They thanked him for his honesty, and the record was quickly changed.  Any trace that I had ever been part of that event was completely erased.

This year, back in early fall, we bought a Marathon registration for a friend's birthday gift.  Just a few days ago, she notified me that she wouldn't be able to participate.  Not wanting the registration to go to waste, I investigated what my options were.  Rules stated that you could switch events, but you could not transfer registration to anyone else.  So yesterday, I went to the packet pick up booth and moved the full Marathon down to a half.  Though I haven't been training, I'm pretty good at long distances and figured I can finish a walking half-marathon, knowing that my times won't be as good.

Taking a shot in the dark, I ask the officials if there was any chance of transferring the registration into my name.  To my surprise and delight, they agreed (I hope this doesn't get them in trouble). 
Now, the computer chip in bib number 405 will reflect me!

Though I had done well, pushed hard and "won" the first race, it wasn't my own.  I can never win someone else's race.  Today, though not well prepared, I will give it my all.  I don't expect to be on the winner's board, but I will have the added satisfaction knowing that it was under my name. 

If I do this event a third time, I want to do it right from start to finish.  I want to train, I want to properly register, and I want to come across the finish line having given my very best.  As for today, wish me luck (and pray for no sprains). 

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it." 1 Corinthians 9:24

The Beauty Before the Fall

I love the fall season.  There is something about nature's vibrant colors that stirs my heart.  Every year, I feel compelled to get up into the mountains and witness this transformation that takes place.  There is a short window of time before the yellows, oranges and reds fade into brown and eventually dissipate all together.  I suppose it's the season's way of "going out in a blaze of glory". 

 

 

I long to be as spectacular--to be the kind of person who bursts forth with all the color and exuberance that this season brings.  At the end of it all, I may be striped bare by the wind, but I know that after the winter, newness of life will come again. 

 

We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. Romans 6:4

One Day Shy of a Full Moon

Today I was reminded of a devotional I wrote many "moons" ago.  Interestingly, today is also the day before the full moon.  I hope this encourages your heart.

Early this morning on my way to work, I was captivated by the big yellow moon that seemed to hang slightly askew over the city.  I contemplated why, as beautiful as the moon was, it just didn’t look “quite right.”  My mind slowly filtered through some files, until I realized that tomorrow is the full moon.  I don’t typically track moon phases, but my wall calendar happens to list them, and I had noticed that the moon would be full on the date of my daughter’s field trip.  So that made today one day shy of a full moon.

I instantly felt that we had something in common, the moon and I.  I have often shared that one of my favorite song lyrics is from Salvador’s “Shine”: “Lord let me shine, shine like the moon.  A reflection of You! All that I do.”  I so badly want to be a reflection of the glory of the Son, but today I felt a little less than full. 

Worries and stresses from the night before still hung like a fog in my mind.  Peace was slowly beginning to re-enter the picture after praying and trusting the Lord for His perfect outcome.  But, just as the moon has its phases, so do I.  I would love it if I would constantly (consistently) reflect the fullness of His truth.  Sadly, I wax and wane quite often.

Now, just after breakfast, I feel full.  Granted, I just ate, but I’m ready to grasp hold of the promises of the Lord:  “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness . . .  and in Christ you have been brought to fullness.” Colossians 2:6-10

Though nature may have to wait a few more hours for the moon to find its fullness, I choose to begin now.  And God willing, in the coming days as I feel my fullness start to slip away, I will turn back to His word and remember another truth: “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8

                                                                                                                                          

A Place in the Choir

My first time being on stage in a theatrical performance was in 6th grade.  I was cast as the lead for the Vacation Bible School production of "All God's Creatures Have a Place in the Choir" (I think that was the name).  It was at least the title of the signature song we had to sing.  We were all dressed as animals and I was Professor Owl.

As little as I remember about the overall experience, I somehow have always retained the lines to the chorus of that key song:
All God's creatures got a place in the choir.  Some sing low, some sing higher, some sing out loud on the telephone wire.  And some just clap their hand, or paws, or anything they got now.

Somehow, these lines seem so very fitting now, when I examine an issue that has been hotly debated both personally and professionally over the last few weeks: Christian films.

A few weeks ago, there were a series of movie reviews that were published about A Matter of Faith by Rich Christiano.  The reviews were very harsh and caused Dan and I to debate with listeners and friends about what our role is in supporting or critiquing Christian films.

Before this conversation, I suppose I had been pretty quick to pan Christian films.  While the overall quality has been improving over the last several years, many films I'd seen had left me wondering why/how they ever got produced.  The story often fell flat, the acting was sub par and the quality of production was noticeably poor.

Yet, in the midst of our radio/online debate, I was challenged in my way of thinking.  I've come to realize that I'm not always (usually) the intended audience.  Sure, from a financial point of view, these filmmakers would like every seat filled with any warm body, but the message isn't always meant for me.

There will be films that leave me scratching (or shaking) my head, but someone else may be touched in a deep and personal way with a message that they needed to hear.  Over the last weeks, I've seen more evidence to that end.

So today, when I had the opportunity to screen A Matter of Faith I went in trying to be open minded, but not having high expectations.  I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised.  I never found myself cringing at the quality of the acting.  The production value was good.  The story (despite critical reviews to the contrary) seemed to be solid.

Is this film going to appeal to everyone? No.  But, it is going to reach God's intended audience with a powerful message about the reality that students are being exposed to the teaching of evolution as an undisputed fact.  There are issues brought up in the 88 minutes of this film that are worth discussing around the kitchen table or proverbial water cooler.

The critics that slammed this movie come from the world of academia and uber intelligent debate circles.  I'm not part of that world.  Perhaps, that is why I enjoyed the film whereas they found reason to tear it apart.

Going back to my VBS song, all God's filmmakers (assuming they are following the direction of the Holy Spirit) got a place in the choir.  Some will "sing" low where others will "sing" higher.  Every Christian should be doing their very best work in every field, but [again] assuming that these filmmakers are doing their finest work with the resources available to them, then I am satisfied to leave the outcome in the hands of the Lord.

If you ask me about a particular movie, I may need to honestly say "I didn't care for it" but I hope I've learned my own lesson not to rip it apart.  The other side of this same coin is, when we hear terrible reviews or learn of someone who strongly dislike a film, we need not assume it would be wasted on us.  After all, God has used some very unique methods to minister to his children, and that "bad" movie may be something that you need to see.

Do we need to stand in support of every Christian film out there?  I don't think so.  But we should always keep an open mind and watchful eye out for how God can use them for His glory and the betterment of His people.

Craming It All In

T minus 40 minutes before I pick the girls up from school.  This week has been unusually busy and I've tried to make good use of my time.  My head is swimming a bit between banquet planning for work, trying to cram in Spanish lessons when I can, and staying on top of other projects (writing included).

Last week, we meet with a new small group and part of the discussion revolved around being sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.  There have been a number of times when a thought comes to mind, and I've dismissed it as my personal craziness.  So today, having a fresh reminder to listen more closely, I fought the urge to ignore that still small voice as I drove home from work. 

Glancing up a side street, I saw that a garbage can had been knocked over, and the trash was in the road. "Go pick it up" was echoing in my ears.  I continued to drive on, but within a few blocks, my heart was burdened and I did a U-turn.  It took me a few minutes to figure out which street it had been.  Once I arrived, I found the home owner, with broom in hand, sweeping up the mess.  Even then, I thought "It's taken care of, no need to stop."  But, again, a burning heart compelled me to get out of the car.  I spent a few minutes helping the man to collect the garbage out of the road and put it back into the trash can.

"It's my own fault," he said.  "I tried to cram too much in there.  Then, when the truck picks it up, it only dumps partway and the rest flings out."  I shared my frustration with the mess that's sometimes left behind, wished him a good day, and finished my journey home.

I'm not really sure what a simple act of obedience to a Holy Spirit prompting will bring, but I'm glad I listened.  If nothing else, it gave me a good visual reminder about what happens when you try to cram too much in.

There are many things that I try to accomplish in the course of a week.  Sometimes I'm able to concentrate and put more effort and attention in than others.  I suppose, that on those weeks when too many things demand my attention, I may experience some of the overload scattered on the road.

Maybe then someone will see my mess, and help me sweep it up!

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.  For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.  But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up."  Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Adventure Man

My husband is a runner and has been for 25+ years.  I am not.  I’ve been known to walk great distances, but running is not my thing. 

Several years ago, my husband expressed an interest in participating in a marathon.  He had done several half-marathons, so I didn’t give much thought to his running a full.  What I did not know at the time I flippantly agreed, was how much training was involved. 

With two young children and a house full of chores, the last thing (I thought) I could endure, was his being frequently gone after work and on weekends.  The truth of the matter was that I was lonely and needed adult interaction after hours managing Kidville. He’d come home from work, and get a run in before dinner.  He’d do his long run on Saturday or Sunday, the days I had counted on to have his company. 

Though I had agreed to his participation, my actions and attitudes sabotaged his training regimen and our mutual frustration finally came to a head.  He vocalized how important this was to him.  He needed my support.  He needed me to be his cheerleader.  Instead, I was self-absorbed and far too busy feeling sorry for myself.  He was right.  Thankfully, he loved me through my selfishness and the Lord helped me change my attitude.  Ultimately, I was able to stand at the finish line, beaming with pride at what he had accomplished. 

In the more recent past, my radio co-host Dan Rosecrans and I were conducting an interview with a man who had set out on a hike, gotten hopelessly lost, nearly died, found help, and then wrote a book about it.  As the author was recounting his story, my “sensible” woman brain was thinking: “Gee, how dumb.  Glad I’m not his wife!”

I then glance over at Dan, and watch a look wash over his face.  It was a very different look from what I’m sure was plastered all over my own.  He kind of went “dreamy” and was totally engrossed in this man’s tale.  After the interview, he made a comment to the effect of “Man, I wish I could do something like that”.

This was my “ah-ha” moment.  Men need adventure.  They are wired for it.  They need to push themselves, strain themselves and maybe even get lost in the mountains.  God wired them for exploration and dreaming big dreams.  They need to play “King of the Mountain” both on the playground and in the world--not to shove others down or away, but to know that sense of accomplishment. 

Both genders need to understand this. Men need to responsibly act on this gift that they have been given.  When men go and do, dream and build, fantastic things can be accomplished, not just for him personally, but for society at large.  Women need to support and spur on their men.  This is not to suggest that women can’t have adventures and grand plans of their own, but ladies will benefit when we assist, and champion our guys.

For some additional thoughts about what a Godly man’s man looks like, here’s a link to a great blog from Watermark Community Church: http://www.watermark.org/blog/how-to-be-a-godly-man/

Ed Stetzer and tomato worms

This morning I woke up early and contemplated what I wanted to accomplish during the course of the day.  It was 5:30am, and I had a few hours before I had any hard and fast obligations.  I hadn’t yet gotten my long walk in for the week and I hoped to catch a service at Calvary of Albuquerque because Ed Stetzer was going to be the guest speaker. 

We had previously scheduled my daughter’s 13^th birthday party for today. This party was technically the 3^rd in the series of birthday parties.  Last weekend, two of her long-time friends spent the night, followed by a day playing in the river.  One of those friends doesn’t get along with the school friends.  So, trying to include all, without drama for my daughter, we allowed two different “parties”.  Then, we had a family celebration on her actual birthday.  Today is the water park day, and we had a BYGO offer, so we allowed two friends from school to celebrate with her.

My husband woke up early as well, and encouraged me to do both my walk and attend church.  Trying to kill two birds with one stone, I walked the nearly 7 miles to church.  I arrived, hot and sweaty, but in enough time to catch Ed’s entire message. 

He spoke about service, and how few church goers actually devote any time giving to others or investing into meeting “church” needs.  He equated church attendance to theater attendance.  We gain admission, look to be entertained, complain if we aren’t happy with the music or message, then head home.  He’s right.  I’m often guilty of being too consumer minded, not wanting to make the personal or emotional investment into someone else.

 My husband and I took turns watching the girls at the water park, and during my break, I went home to get a shower and take care of a few things.  I went outside to check on my tomato plants, and inspect if there was any sign of remaining tomato worms (I had killed at least 7 over the last two days).

 

I have to pause for a moment to say something: I despise and fear tomato worms!  If you aren’t familiar with them, they easily disguise themselves on the leaves of the plant, and then eat both plant and fruit.  Early childhood memories include my mother, armed with a giant pair of kitchen shears, cutting the nasty beasts in half, trying to protect the few tomatoes that will grow in the hot New Mexico sun.  So, I do the same today.  Carefully examining to see if there is any sign of further destruction to my plants, I nervously clutched my own kitchen shears, ready to sever any sign of life I observed.  I don’t know why I’m afraid of them.  I recognize it’s quite irrational, but I’ve actually had nightmares about them.

In the course of the day, I also had a chance to read a thought provoking blog by Ryan Russell (redbikeleader.com/RESET) addressing his frustration with social media and how shallow it can be.  This is another area in which I have frequent and conflicting opinions.  I had actually attended the Calvary service with Ed Stetzer thinking this might be a subject he would cover (I was first introduced to Ed and his work at the NRB Conference speaking on this topic).

Now, during my shift at the water park, I have some time to think back on the events of today and formulate a few lessons/conclusions:

*It’s good to work hard/exercise hard and feel a sense of exhaustion and/or completion.

*It’s worth the effort to put yourself in a position to learn something new and to be challenged to fight against the status quo. 

*Life is like a group of 13 year-old girls.  You can choose to immerse yourself in the drama, or you can opt for maturity and offer yourself as a true friend to others.  You may get snubbed, or you may get hugged.  The only one you have the power to control is you.

*Social media sites can be like tomato worms.  They are living, breathing creatures, but have the potential to be very destructive if you don’t keep a good pair of shears in hand, ready to do some cutting.

The best verse I can think of to close off this blog is Matthew 13:35: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Let us love and serve one another at church, on social media and even with drama filled friends.  May our actions and love point others to the awesome grace of Christ. 

Monday

It’s Monday morning.  That means the start of a new work week for my husband and me and a new school week for my kids.  For some, today is their birthday, their anniversary or their last day of chemo.  For others, today is the final day on the job after getting a “pink slip”.  Today might bring a check in the mail or a notice of foreclosure.

In other parts of the world, today is the day their house gets bombed, their father gets executed or their child succumbs to disease.  Today might also bring joy as a village welcomes the message of salvation as the good news of the Gospel is heard.

So what does this all mean for my ordinary American life?  How can I care without becoming consumed?  There are nations at war, civil unrest at home, and evil abounding globally--but I still need to run to Costco to fill up my car with gas.  How do I live?  How do I pray?  How do I make a difference?

I think it has to start, very simply, with the scripture “Be still, and know that I am God.”  As I looked up the reference, I was surprise to read the entire psalm and hear many of the same themes of today, sung by the words of the Psalmist thousands of years ago:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.  There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.  God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.  Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.  The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.  Come and see the works of the Lord, the desolations he has brought on the earth.  He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire.  “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” Psalm 46

In light of this passage, my outlook for this week has a distinctive, new focus.

1.       I can pray for peace but don’t need to be in fear of war.  God is my shelter. War may be raging around us, but He can make them cease. 

2.       I can exalt (praise) God and teach my children to do the same. 

3.       I can look for opportunities to show the promise of peace to others who don’t have it.

Some may view this approach as too “simple”.  However, I know that there is no way for me to be still before God if I continue to strive for _______ (fill in the blank) with my own strength and power.  I absolutely want to be moved by the Holy Spirit to walk in obedience in whatever area He calls me to. That might be a time of intense prayer.  It might be ministry to a hurting friend.  It might be courtesy and respect to the rude clerk at the counter.   Sure, I have things I want to accomplish this week—they may even be good things.  But, they might not be God things.  After all, I can’t hear His voice if I’m busy talking about my own personal agenda. 

Lord, help me to be keenly aware of every area you want me to engage in this week.  Help me pray according to your will.  Let my heartbeat mimic your own.  Let me not be burdened with anyone’s projection of what they think I should be doing.  Instead, let me simply rest in you, being obedient to your voice and call.  Amen

                                         

Photo by Lhgergo

Hair Dye and Chocolate Cake

The last 3 days have been rather hectic.  Saturday and Sunday we worked (and had other people work) on a plumbing problem the required the water to be shut off for most of the weekend.  I was relatively calm about it.  There were occasions when the fear of having to tear out bathroom walls crept through my head, but on a whole, I was at peace.  In the end, we did have to go through a wall, but from the back end.  The plumbing was repaired and instead of having to re-tile a wall, it will just be a dry wall repair. 

Then last night, I got a surprise phone call, offering me a job for which I'd never heard of, and never applied for.  It was exciting to think that someone though I was such a perfect fit, that I was offered a position out of the blue.  Wanting to learn more about it, I headed for a meeting this afternoon only to be told that the position was filled 30 minutes prior to my arrival.  I can't say that I was terribly upset, as the whole think had come out of left field anyway.  Yet, I felt a little confused.

After the meeting, I picked up my eldest daughter from my in-law's house.  She doesn't start school until tomorrow. She had made a very decadent chocolate cake and built (from a kit) a 3 foot high Eifel Tower.  After loading her goods into the car, she asked me about dying her hair.
We've allowed hair dye before.  Not the whole head, but streaks of a color.  She had bought a kit of "luscious raspberry".

On to pick up daughter #2 who did start school today.  First day at a new school and by all accounts it went pretty well!

Back at the ranch, I come home to last night's Star Wars Monopoly Game still spread all over the kitchen table.  The family wanted to finish it up tonight after dinner.  My bed is unmade, there is laundry on the couch and the ugly hole in the wall stares me down.  I'm starting to feel a bit intimidated. 

I start the dye job on #1.  While the bleach sets, I begin dinner.  #2 is busy reading and I'm thankful for that.  Hubby comes home and then leaves again for the gym.  I rinse, wash and apply color.  I cook the pasta and add the fixings.  I rinse the dye and shampoo.  #2 has snuck some chocolate cake.  Hubby comes home, we eat, they play Monopoly.

I just needed a little "down" time tonight.  I suppose I'm being selfish, sitting with my computer, writing to anyone who cares, rather than engaging with the family.  That being said, it's time to unplug and find #2--looks like she ran out of money and left the game. 

Motherhood isn't for the faint of heart.

Who I Am

It is painful to confess this, but the honest truth is that I struggle with my pride on a regular basis.  My flesh wants to be acknowledged and patted on the back.  It wants to be honored for working hard.  It wants to be noticed.

If you do a quick Bible verse search on “pride”, it’s very obvious that it isn’t a characteristic that God wants in me.  So, my spirit is always in pride battle mode. 

Today on the radio program, we had Senatorial candidate Allen Weh come in.  He asked me if I “do the weather”.  I can’t relay the emotional response that a question of that nature generates in me.  I wanted to shout “I’ve been here for almost 8 years!  I’m the co-host!”  In retrospect, I think what I really wanted to shout was “I’m important too!  Value me!”

Knowing who I am in Christ and being firmly and confidently rooted in that identity is such a juxtaposition to worldly pride.  It’s a struggle for me.  The world expects us to celebrate our titles and accomplishments.  It presumes that our identity comes from our jobs, our affiliations, or even our sexuality. 

Today, I write to remind myself, and anyone else in need of a spiritual “pep-talk” who we really are.

We are God’s workmanship: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 
Think of yourself as a fine work of art that has been meticulously crafted by the Master Designer.

We are a new creation: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 
You may view yourself through the lens of your mistakes.  You may have shame from the past, but that record has been expunged!

We are loved, forgiven, sanctified, accepted, favored, and reconciled to God.  The list goes on and on.  Instead of thinking of yourself as a "just"--"just a mom", "just a student" or "just a delivery driver", begin to imagine your spiritual business cards with these new titles instead.

The beauty of God’s Truth is that who I am in Him, is so much more than I could ever be through human accomplishment.  Now, the real challenge lies in valuing our God given titles above those found in the world.  I won't pretend that a blog and a speech will instantly remedy this thinking.  However, acknowledging the struggle and turning it over to the Lord in prayer will begin to put us on the right side of the battle.

Lord, help me see my true value, and abandon self-promotion through worldly endeavors. Set me free from the bondage of pride and allow me to rest in the assurance that I have eternal value in Your eyes.  Let this truth sink deeply into my mind and spirit and let me rest in You.  Help me throw off everything that so easily entangles, so I can run with perseverance the race marked out for me. Let my eyes be fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith. Amen

 

A House Full of Strangers

Tonight is "National Night Out", an "effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, [and] neighborhood camaraderie."  For us, we used it as an "excuse" to open up our home to our neighbors in an effort to get to know them better (or at all).

The idea came to me at a recent Albuquerque Ministry Alliance meeting, where the speaker talked about the purposeful effort he and his wife  made in praying for the Lord to open doors of opportunity to love on their neighbors.  One thing led to another and they now have a thriving neighborhood network. 

I felt a sense of sadness that after 2 1/2 years in our home, we had hardly met anyone on our block.  Of those we had met, I barely knew their names.  So, after prayer and consulting Bob, our neighborhood open house was planned.

The experience of going door to door, passing out invitation flyers didn't go as I had imagined.  We had neighbors who rolled their eyes, closed their doors, or looked out the window and opt not to ever open the door.  I had somehow envisioned a 1950's TV sitcom response. It clearly didn't go that way.

Yet, over the next few days, the phone calls started to come in.  First one, then a few more, and finally 15 responded, saying they would attend.  Even as I write now, another neighbor called (expressing regret that a prior commitment would keep her from attending).

So tonight, my house will be full of neighborhood strangers.  My hope and prayer is that this event will serve as a catalyst, promoting friendship and trust.  I will try not to have unrealistic expectations about what will transpire.  As a wise man once told me "We are simply called to act.  We are not responsible for the outcome."  We acted in faith and have opened our doors.  The rest is up to the Lord.

Photo Lessons

Part of my duties at work include managing our social network pages.  As I was looking through photos to update our station profile, I came across a few that took me back and reminded me of some important lessons. 

This is a photo I took with June Hunt, Founder and CSO of Hope for the Heart.  She is an incredibly gifted and compassionate woman who I greatly admire.  Though she never married, she didn't allow her singleness to become a source of bitterness. Instead, she focused her time and talents into developing a ministry that has helped thousands around the globe.  Using her skills in Biblical counseling, she developed radio programs, a resource center and has written multiple books. At my first National Religious Broadcasters Conference, I introduced myself to her at the airport, and she in turn invited me to share a cab to the hotel (which she paid for in full).  Her giving, gracious heart will continue to bless me and all those that she touches.

George W. Bush impersonator, John Morgan, is quite an act.  His few non-comedic words to me the day we met were so profound that I went on to invite him to several radio interviews over the years.  His message: To be a believable Bush, he had to study the real Bush's every mannerism, vocal fluctuation, history and attitude. He had to so immerse himself in the study of Bush, that he would be mistaken for the real deal (in fact the FBI used him a time or two).  He went on to stress that we as Christians so have the same task--to so study and imitate Christ, that we as His followers would be mistaken for Him.  Wow!

Janet Parshall is the woman I'd choose to mentor me if we lived in the same town.  She's the smartest, most well-spoken, educated and professional woman I've ever come across.  She puts her faith first, honors her husband and values family.  She is not immune from loss and heartbreak as her son sadly lost his battle with cancer.  Yet despite bitter disappointments in life, she never fails to glorify God, respect those who attack her Biblical world view and commands respect at the microphone.  The host of "In the Market", Janet brings truth and love to a world that is starving for genuine conversation.

Finally, a picture of the pie assembly line at Heights Cumberland Church.  I was invited by Leslie Cumiford (on the left) to participate.  My daughters and I helped make apple, blueberry, strawberry and many other varieties of pie.  By the end of the day, almost 200 had been assembled!  These pies went on to be sold at the Asbury Pie Café during the New Mexico State Fair.  The money raised there helped the homeless and broken in our community. 

This day spoke to me of the great variety of personalities within the body of Christ.  We all have different skills and talents, but when we are operating together efficiently and respectfully, get works can be accomplished.  Whether you are gifted in making a flaky, buttery crust, or preaching from the pulpit, the Lord can use you and your willing heart to do great things for His Kingdom.

Hump Day

I love the late spring season as the leaves have fully emerged and the temperatures begin to climb, making the trek toward summer.  It's great to have more hours of daylight and the excitement is in the air as the school year comes to a close.

My one complaint about this particular time of year is the birds.  Up and awake, sometimes as early as 3:30am, they joyfully sing their songs as I try pointlessly to ignore their happy twittering and go back to sleep. Today is one of those days.

It's Wednesday, and boy does it feel like a "hump day" at this early hour. I'm realizing that I need to quickly make a decision about my attitude.  Yes, I got up earlier than I wanted to, but I can let my thoughts go to the dark and grumpy recesses of my mind, or I can stand on top of the hump and observe the world around me with thankfulness. 

If you are struggling up, or around a hump of your own today, here's a great verse that we can contemplate together:  "Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ." 2 Thessalonians 3:5

This makes me envision those airline ramp agents, who, with the long, orange glow sticks, direct the airplanes into the correct bay for the passengers to disembark.  My heart needs directing sometimes. And really, is there a better feeling than when you are parked safely where you belong?

                          Photo credit Kris Klop

Happy Wednesday friends!

Catching up and taking the lead

It's been a very long time since I've sat down to write.  I can use lots of different excuses, but the bottom line is, I simply didn't make the time.

Yesterday, I attended the Leadercast 2014 conference that Love Inc. brought to the Albuquerque area by way of telecast.  It was a full day affair, and speakers included Andy Stanley, Dr. Henry Cloud, Laura Bush, and many others.  This year's theme was "Beyond You" and every speaker addressed what their understanding of leadership was in the context of the theme.

Within the first few pages of the Leadercast workbook is a quote: "Effective leadership requires us to look beyond ourselves and consider the larger community around us--to focus outward, rather than inward."  Indeed, throughout the course of the day, this topic continued to echo in my ears.  By late afternoon, I was rather convicted--I am terribly selfish. 

Working in ministry, I've often convinced myself that that alone, is a sacrifice.  After all, it isn't good pay, the rewards are few and far between, it's often very thankless, etc.  Yet, there have been many occasions where I've done (or not done) things because I simply didn't want to, because of discomfort, boredom, frustration, and inconvenience.  I didn't take the lead, because I wanted someone else to do the heavy lifting.  I didn't give my all because it wasn't my "job".  I didn't . . . You get the picture.

While this wasn't a "Christian" event, the idea of servant leadership comes directly from the pages of the New Testament, whether the speakers realize it or not.  Looking at the life and leadership of Jesus, there are endless lessons to be learned. One of the most interesting aspects, to me, is that he wasn't even a "leader".  Let me explain:
He wasn't the boss of the carpentry shop.
He wasn't a political leader.
He wasn't a military official.
He wasn't even a religious leader.

So what made him a man worth following?  We know clearly where his authority came from.  Yet for his disciples, and the people with whom he interacted during his lifetime, he was the ultimate servant leader.  He fed them, he healed them, he comforted them, he saved them!  Contrast that to what we often associate with modern day leaders: We reward them, we idolize them, we excuse their bad behavior, we envy them.

I'm not a leader in title, but I've known for a number of years that the Lord has given me a measure of authority through my work at the radio, and through my writing platform.  Sadly, there have been many times that my attitude has been one of complaining and excuse making rather than going forward boldly, imitating Christ as a servant leader. 

I will make mistakes, and I will forget my own lesson at times, but I was reminded yesterday through this conference, that I can have a positive influence.  I want to be different, and make a difference!  I can speak and act in a Christ-like manner.  I can stop making excuses.  I can lead. 

If you have a situation where you don't like your boss or your workplace, your church or your circumstance, I want to leave you with a final thought as communicated through speaker Simon Sinek at the conference yesterday: "We must be the leaders we wish we had."  In my mind, that applies to every platform from the family home to the White House.  We can complain all day long about the ineffective and corrupt people that hold positions of power.  Or, we can start with ourselves asking, what we can do to make a difference. 

This change will take time and patience.  We won't see the results overnight.  Sinek went on to say, "Leadership is like going to the gym--you can't see the progress on a daily basis."  It's only through dedication and consistency that will we be able to look back and see the changes that have begun to shape us, and those we influence.

So who's with me?  I officially promote you to leader.  Whether you are "just" a mom/dad/student, or run a corporation, you have been called to lead.  No more excuses.  Let us go forward together and become the men and women that Christ has called us to be.  He will equip us to make the difference that we hope to see.