So, I've completed one full week of the new work schedule. For the most part, it's gone smoothly. Part of my new duties have included learning how to more effectively utilize Facebook and other social media outlets for the benefit of Son Broadcasting Network.
With the goal of encouraging participation in the Morning Show, I published an opinion piece that dealt with the topic of abortion protesting. I put it on Facebook, and was hoping for some respectful dialogue either by comment or calls into the radio station.
There were a few comments made, directed at me personally, that really hurt. Truthfully, I shed some tears over them. I am tender hearted and it's a struggle for me when people don't understand or attack my position.
Now that the "storm" has passed, I'm able to step back and take a more objective look at what transpired. While I can't do much about my emotion responses to hurt, I can prepare myself for future conversations that will undoubtedly take place with those who don't agree with my position.
As this world continues to drift away from Biblical values, it is only logical to assume that an ever increasing number of peers/listeners will take up positions that are in direct opposition to my value system. Will I be able to clearly and respectfully defend my position? Can I shine the light of Truth into a dark world?
A requirement of my job at the radio station is to stay up with news, and communicate the information effectively to those listening. I can think of no better mentor from whom to learn this skill than Jesus. He spoke to his audience the truth of God's Word, using stories that the people would understand.
I'm no Jesus. I stumble over my words. I make bad analogies. I sometimes get self focused and speak from the flesh. But I always want to learn, and put into practice a better way! Communication may be my degree field and my profession, but shouldn't it be in the "job description" of all believers in Christ?
We are called to be witnesses to the world of the Love and Salvation that comes through Him. I encourage you to read the full story that unfolds in Acts 4. I'll close with a few verses that served to be a great encouragement to me today:
Acts 4:26-29
"The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One. Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. . . "
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Our new normal
Many months ago when we were talking through schedules and the school days to come, it became apparent that I needed to be home in the morning hours. After much prayer, job searching, and fretting (I'm not proud of that part), we have an answer to our family's needs--a different work schedule.
I'm so thankful to my boss(es) who made it possible for me to stay at Son Broadcasting. While I used to be in the office by 5:45am, I now have the opportunity to get my girls ready for school, and join my co-host Dan for the second hour of the Morning Show, arriving at work just before 8am.
I can already tell that this is going to require a great deal of adjustment for many. It's honestly strange to be at home and see the family before I leave for work. I have to work out a new personal morning schedule that will allow me a quite time to read/pray/think. I want to be able to exercise, and get ready for the day somewhere in there as well.
The tween drama is rampant at my house, and the early morning hours seem to be a breeding ground for stressful interaction.
Coming into work "late" is also a strange sensation. This morning, I had to fight the feeling that I just didn't belong anymore.
God is good, and He will help us all fall into a new rhythm. There will be different tasks for me to accomplish both at home and at work.
But until the new schedule starts to feel second nature, I will take it a day at a time. Thanks to all of you who have been praying with/for me as we've strived to seek the Lord's will.
I'm so thankful to my boss(es) who made it possible for me to stay at Son Broadcasting. While I used to be in the office by 5:45am, I now have the opportunity to get my girls ready for school, and join my co-host Dan for the second hour of the Morning Show, arriving at work just before 8am.
I can already tell that this is going to require a great deal of adjustment for many. It's honestly strange to be at home and see the family before I leave for work. I have to work out a new personal morning schedule that will allow me a quite time to read/pray/think. I want to be able to exercise, and get ready for the day somewhere in there as well.
The tween drama is rampant at my house, and the early morning hours seem to be a breeding ground for stressful interaction.
Coming into work "late" is also a strange sensation. This morning, I had to fight the feeling that I just didn't belong anymore.
God is good, and He will help us all fall into a new rhythm. There will be different tasks for me to accomplish both at home and at work.
But until the new schedule starts to feel second nature, I will take it a day at a time. Thanks to all of you who have been praying with/for me as we've strived to seek the Lord's will.
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Praying while the world goes mad
We have been "home churching" for about 8 years. It started as an invitation to join a Sunday morning gathering of a few families who wanted to study, pray and worship in a home rather than a church building. The group was comprised of a former pastor, stay at home moms, science professionals, laborers, etc. I loved the people, but couldn't get over the distraction of having my kids within sight/earshot during "church".
Where we have met, how we've dealt with childcare, time of day, even day of the week has changed in the 8 years as our home church has fluctuated. Needless to say, we found something that worked and continue to gather this way these many years later.
Last night as we met, I marveled at all that had transpired over the years with our group. There have been births, graduations and a marriage. There have been personal triumphs and agonies. New jobs, new homes, new members and new challenges have all been realities these past few years.
One thing that has remained consistent is the madness of the world around us. We have often discussed the times in which we live, and prayed for those affected by loss and pain. We have at times donated money or efforts to help a situation.
There have been those in our group who have gone out onto the mission field, ministering to the homeless, desperate and broken. We've cooked meals, visited the sick and worked on behalf of those who needed our help.
Actions are important, no doubt about it. However it has been our experience that the power of prayer is real and often has much more impact that a kind gesture ever can.
God has been so faithful to answer prayer. It hasn't always been immediate, nor has the answer come in the way/form in which we asked. The answers have come though, and they have changes lives. Sickness and pains have been healed. Homes have been bought and sold, babies have been conceived, the pain after loss has been comforted and broken relationships have been restored.
Skeptics may say that time would have taken care of all these things "naturally". Perhaps, but ask for the specific example from the people whose lives were directly impacted, and they will show you how the fingerprints of God were all over the situation from start to finish.
This morning, as I wake to news of 100 dead in a Chinese earthquake, the capture of the Boston Marathon bomber and the rape of a 5 year old girl, I can make a choice. I can become overwhelmed with the evil and madness of our time, or I can pray.
I imagine many will scoff at what they deem to be a foolish waste of time. I would argue that it is both Biblical and wise to take time praying. I have seen too many times the evidence of answered prayer to do anything less.
Our simple prayers to a limitless God are making an impact. Ask Him for yourself and allow Him the perfect time/way in which to answer. Expect to be surprised with the end result.
Where we have met, how we've dealt with childcare, time of day, even day of the week has changed in the 8 years as our home church has fluctuated. Needless to say, we found something that worked and continue to gather this way these many years later.
Last night as we met, I marveled at all that had transpired over the years with our group. There have been births, graduations and a marriage. There have been personal triumphs and agonies. New jobs, new homes, new members and new challenges have all been realities these past few years.
One thing that has remained consistent is the madness of the world around us. We have often discussed the times in which we live, and prayed for those affected by loss and pain. We have at times donated money or efforts to help a situation.
There have been those in our group who have gone out onto the mission field, ministering to the homeless, desperate and broken. We've cooked meals, visited the sick and worked on behalf of those who needed our help.
Actions are important, no doubt about it. However it has been our experience that the power of prayer is real and often has much more impact that a kind gesture ever can.
God has been so faithful to answer prayer. It hasn't always been immediate, nor has the answer come in the way/form in which we asked. The answers have come though, and they have changes lives. Sickness and pains have been healed. Homes have been bought and sold, babies have been conceived, the pain after loss has been comforted and broken relationships have been restored.
Skeptics may say that time would have taken care of all these things "naturally". Perhaps, but ask for the specific example from the people whose lives were directly impacted, and they will show you how the fingerprints of God were all over the situation from start to finish.
This morning, as I wake to news of 100 dead in a Chinese earthquake, the capture of the Boston Marathon bomber and the rape of a 5 year old girl, I can make a choice. I can become overwhelmed with the evil and madness of our time, or I can pray.
I imagine many will scoff at what they deem to be a foolish waste of time. I would argue that it is both Biblical and wise to take time praying. I have seen too many times the evidence of answered prayer to do anything less.
Our simple prayers to a limitless God are making an impact. Ask Him for yourself and allow Him the perfect time/way in which to answer. Expect to be surprised with the end result.
Monday, April 8, 2013
Project in the works
Happy Monday!
My blogging downfall is lack of consistency. I have things on my heart that burst out regularly, but putting those experiences down on "paper" is a whole other issue.
It is with excitement, nervousness and joy that I wish to share the news that I have a new project in the works. Much like a pregnancy, this will likely take many months to grow and mature. When it will be birthed is yet to be seen.
I've always wanted to write a book, but never felt that I had a story of my own that others would want to read. After prayer and contemplation, I think my job is not to tell my story, but that of others.
Without spilling all the beans, I'll let you know that this project combines three of my passions: faith, story telling and cooking.
I am beginning the process of collecting names and email addresses of missionaries who are serving abroad. If you know someone who is an active missionary that might be willing to share their story with me (by email or Skype), I'd be thankful for the referral. I hope to highlight the work that they are doing. If there are safety concerns, I would of course be cautious and would never write/publish anything to compromise them.
Thanks for your help and prayers. I look forward to a regular blogging presence as evidence of a project in process!
Blessings,
Birga
My blogging downfall is lack of consistency. I have things on my heart that burst out regularly, but putting those experiences down on "paper" is a whole other issue.
It is with excitement, nervousness and joy that I wish to share the news that I have a new project in the works. Much like a pregnancy, this will likely take many months to grow and mature. When it will be birthed is yet to be seen.
I've always wanted to write a book, but never felt that I had a story of my own that others would want to read. After prayer and contemplation, I think my job is not to tell my story, but that of others.
Without spilling all the beans, I'll let you know that this project combines three of my passions: faith, story telling and cooking.
I am beginning the process of collecting names and email addresses of missionaries who are serving abroad. If you know someone who is an active missionary that might be willing to share their story with me (by email or Skype), I'd be thankful for the referral. I hope to highlight the work that they are doing. If there are safety concerns, I would of course be cautious and would never write/publish anything to compromise them.
Thanks for your help and prayers. I look forward to a regular blogging presence as evidence of a project in process!
Blessings,
Birga
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
A big "Thank You"
It's been several weeks since our return from Israel, and I realize that I haven't taken the time to write a message to express my thankfulness for all those who prayed for, and contributed toward our trip.
It was a journey that we will not soon forget. Thank you a thousand times over!
We flew into Tel Aviv and had a day spent at the beach. It was great to be near the ocean again. It was all the more interesting as we got to Israel for the start of the holiday, Purim, where many kids (and adults) were in costume. I even came across a costume surfing contest.
The bulk of our time was spent in Jerusalem. Over the 6 nights we stayed there, we had three different lodging arrangements. The first four nights we stayed at a small bed and breakfast that hosted a dozen or so guests from all over the world. It was a unique opportunity to talk with them about why they had each made the journey to Israel.
It was a journey that we will not soon forget. Thank you a thousand times over!
We flew into Tel Aviv and had a day spent at the beach. It was great to be near the ocean again. It was all the more interesting as we got to Israel for the start of the holiday, Purim, where many kids (and adults) were in costume. I even came across a costume surfing contest.
The bulk of our time was spent in Jerusalem. Over the 6 nights we stayed there, we had three different lodging arrangements. The first four nights we stayed at a small bed and breakfast that hosted a dozen or so guests from all over the world. It was a unique opportunity to talk with them about why they had each made the journey to Israel.
The next two night were spent at the King Solomon Hotel, with the members of Team Just One Life. There were 7 (I think) who had traveled from the U.S., and several locals who had all raised funds on behalf of Just One Life, a crisis pregnancy center in Jerusalem. There was a time to meet the staff of JOL, as well as a pre-run pasta party where we got an opportunity to meet two of the ladies who had been served through this tremendous organization.
All said and done, the group raised close to $40,000 to benefit Just One Life and the mothers that they serve. It was an incredible blessing to be able to work toward the fundraising/running goals and to be able to accomplish so much for these precious ladies.
Bob completed the half-marathon and I finished the 10k. The run was the most physically challenging event I had ever done. The course was so hilly and by the time I crossed the finish line I was spent. It was a rewarding exhaustion.
The trip was fantastic and a blessing through and through. I know most of you don't have time to read a lengthy blog post, so I will leave the report short and sweet. I'm always happy to meet up for coffee if you would like a more lengthy description of all we saw and did.
Again, thank you! Your investment is making a life-changing impact!
Thursday, February 14, 2013
It wasn't for me
This morning as my co-host and I were on the air, one of the ladies from our office came in holding a vase of roses, a Valentine's bag and a big balloon. She set them on my desk and said she was the "delivery lady". I was really excited, until she said they were for Dan.
I felt pretty darn foolish. After all, I had told my husband that he shouldn't get me anything as we are going to a Valentine's banquet (tomorrow), and then to Israel next week! We need to be saving money, and flowers and balloons are just a waste of money. Or are they?
Prices for Valentine's Day are so over inflated. A dozen roses that last week were $9.99 are now $20 (or more). Nothing changed except the day on which they are given.
I try to fight against the mentality that gifts are an indicator of value or love. It's not even really my love language.
As defined by Dr. Gary Chapman, the love languages include: acts of service, quality time, gifts, physical touch, and words of affirmation. My husband is physical touch, I'm acts of service.
I guess the Valentine's letdown came from thinking my hubby hadn't spent the time (not money) to plan a surprise. He could have popped into the office with a can of tuna and I would have been happy that he had gone out of his way.
Don't get me wrong--I'm not going to hold a grudge. I'm not going to pout and make him feel guilty. I guess I'm just going to be more aware in the future, when I tell him not to get me anything, to be honest about what I really mean--that I don't need him to spend money, but do need him to take the time to think of me and let me know I'm loved.
Love languages are tricky things--it's hard to think outside the parameters of what makes you feel loved. But, it's well worth it when you invest the time and effort to communicate in such a way that makes the other person feel that they are worth
I felt pretty darn foolish. After all, I had told my husband that he shouldn't get me anything as we are going to a Valentine's banquet (tomorrow), and then to Israel next week! We need to be saving money, and flowers and balloons are just a waste of money. Or are they?
Prices for Valentine's Day are so over inflated. A dozen roses that last week were $9.99 are now $20 (or more). Nothing changed except the day on which they are given.
I try to fight against the mentality that gifts are an indicator of value or love. It's not even really my love language.
As defined by Dr. Gary Chapman, the love languages include: acts of service, quality time, gifts, physical touch, and words of affirmation. My husband is physical touch, I'm acts of service.
I guess the Valentine's letdown came from thinking my hubby hadn't spent the time (not money) to plan a surprise. He could have popped into the office with a can of tuna and I would have been happy that he had gone out of his way.
Don't get me wrong--I'm not going to hold a grudge. I'm not going to pout and make him feel guilty. I guess I'm just going to be more aware in the future, when I tell him not to get me anything, to be honest about what I really mean--that I don't need him to spend money, but do need him to take the time to think of me and let me know I'm loved.
Love languages are tricky things--it's hard to think outside the parameters of what makes you feel loved. But, it's well worth it when you invest the time and effort to communicate in such a way that makes the other person feel that they are worth
Friday, February 8, 2013
Does my mission trip count?
A few months back, my boss came in and told me that I had been suggested to serve as a representative for Son Broadcasting Network in a race in Israel. Floored and excited, I expressed that I would be honored, but it really was my husband who was the runner in the family. A few phone calls later, and my husband and I were both encouraged to go.
We will be participating in different events under the auspices of the Jerusalem Marathon. My husband will run the half-marathon, and I'll do the 10K (a knee injury interrupted my training schedule and led to the need for less mileage).
We will be running in support of a crisis pregnancy center in Jerusalem called "Just One Life". This organization has been working for the last 20 years to provide help and hope for families that find themselves with very difficult choices to make surrounding an unexpected pregnancy. 13,000+ children later, it is abundantly apparent that their work is needed and serving so many Israeli families.
This trip really is a gift from the Lord. I had the opportunity to visit Israel in 2009 with a media tour, and my prayer had been for an opportunity to go back with my husband. Now that prayer is a reality.
I have been so excited, and felt God moving throughout the process of planning, promoting and raising funds for Just One Life. Even with my knee injury, I've seen the favor that I've been given and I've had a doctor who has been treating me weekly with electrical stimulation simply because he want to see me succeed.
I trust that He is going to put us in contact with those we need to see, talk with those who need a word of hope, and run along side those who question why we would travel half way around the world to stand with an Israeli crisis pregnancy center.
Though much of this trip will be more vacation like, there will be days when we will have the opportunity to share the story of why we are there, hopefully touching hearts along the way. I was fired up about the blessing and "mission" opportunity God had given us, until . . .
Comparison is a killer. We were chugging along with our plans when I heard of a dear friend who was going on a mission trip to Haiti. They would work with the poor and sick, help orphans, etc. Suddenly, our "mission" opportunity paled in comparison--big time! I piled a good dose of doubt and condemnation on my own head.
We are going to stay in a B&B for a few nights, then move onto a fancy hotel. We get to spend several days as husband and wife taking in the sights of Jerusalem. Some mission trip!
I had to stop my train of thought. It was going down the wrong track, and fast. I had been handed a beautiful gift. Instead of spending every day thanking Him and blessing His name, I wallowed into a bog of comparative filth.
Let this serve as a word of caution: comparing your anything with anyone/thing else will quickly steal your joy, and rob you the opportunity to serve in your full capacity. That you Lord for snapping me out of that mindset!
So we charge on. Ready to leave in a few short weeks. Ready to listen and act on the promptings that the Lord stirs in our hearts. Ready to run and give the glory to the Lord. Ready to let my life serve as a mission field--in Albuquerque, Israel or anywhere He places me.
If you'd like to learn more about our trip you can visit here: http://www.teamjustonelife.org/my/birgaandbob
If you'd like to check out my friend's trip to Haiti, visit here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Becky-Maggie-to-Haiti/449043931828087?ref=ts&fref=ts
We will be participating in different events under the auspices of the Jerusalem Marathon. My husband will run the half-marathon, and I'll do the 10K (a knee injury interrupted my training schedule and led to the need for less mileage).
We will be running in support of a crisis pregnancy center in Jerusalem called "Just One Life". This organization has been working for the last 20 years to provide help and hope for families that find themselves with very difficult choices to make surrounding an unexpected pregnancy. 13,000+ children later, it is abundantly apparent that their work is needed and serving so many Israeli families.
This trip really is a gift from the Lord. I had the opportunity to visit Israel in 2009 with a media tour, and my prayer had been for an opportunity to go back with my husband. Now that prayer is a reality.
I have been so excited, and felt God moving throughout the process of planning, promoting and raising funds for Just One Life. Even with my knee injury, I've seen the favor that I've been given and I've had a doctor who has been treating me weekly with electrical stimulation simply because he want to see me succeed.
I trust that He is going to put us in contact with those we need to see, talk with those who need a word of hope, and run along side those who question why we would travel half way around the world to stand with an Israeli crisis pregnancy center.
Though much of this trip will be more vacation like, there will be days when we will have the opportunity to share the story of why we are there, hopefully touching hearts along the way. I was fired up about the blessing and "mission" opportunity God had given us, until . . .
Comparison is a killer. We were chugging along with our plans when I heard of a dear friend who was going on a mission trip to Haiti. They would work with the poor and sick, help orphans, etc. Suddenly, our "mission" opportunity paled in comparison--big time! I piled a good dose of doubt and condemnation on my own head.
We are going to stay in a B&B for a few nights, then move onto a fancy hotel. We get to spend several days as husband and wife taking in the sights of Jerusalem. Some mission trip!
I had to stop my train of thought. It was going down the wrong track, and fast. I had been handed a beautiful gift. Instead of spending every day thanking Him and blessing His name, I wallowed into a bog of comparative filth.
Let this serve as a word of caution: comparing your anything with anyone/thing else will quickly steal your joy, and rob you the opportunity to serve in your full capacity. That you Lord for snapping me out of that mindset!
So we charge on. Ready to leave in a few short weeks. Ready to listen and act on the promptings that the Lord stirs in our hearts. Ready to run and give the glory to the Lord. Ready to let my life serve as a mission field--in Albuquerque, Israel or anywhere He places me.
If you'd like to learn more about our trip you can visit here: http://www.teamjustonelife.org/my/birgaandbob
If you'd like to check out my friend's trip to Haiti, visit here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Becky-Maggie-to-Haiti/449043931828087?ref=ts&fref=ts
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