Wow. Another year over, what have I done? Maybe it should be more like "what haven't I done?"
What an amazing year 2011 has been! I am just amazed when I look back at where I was a year ago. This year has been filled with great things and not so great things. There are regrets and there are moments that I wish I could relieve. There are moments of great joy and moments that brought deep pain. But all the good, and all the "bad" have shaped me into whom I am today as I joyfully enter 2012!!!
Some of 2011 blessings and highlights:
January:
• Started my first semester ever of college
April:
• Ended my first semester of college with a 4.0 GPA!
June:
• Dad and I bought a house and moved into an absolutely wonderful neighborhood!
• Began attending the college group (where I have since meet some of my bestest friends ever (and more friends through them!)
• Planted a stake deep in the ground for Jesus!!! And it has only gone deeper!
July:
• Completely off anti-depressants and continue to be!
• 4th of July. Never ever going to forget that wonderful night of fellowship, first try at swing dancing, fireworks on the crowded pearl street bridge and just chilling on the front porch meeting new people.
• First time serving the homeless!
• Began the wonderful adventure of getting to know an amazing individual in a special way.... in which I learned (and continue to learn) so so so so so much! Not only about myself, and the other individual, but about God, relationships centered around God, what it is to actually love.... just to name a few. :)
August:
• Celebrated my birthday and one of my closest friend's birthday!
• First time all year of having 19 whole days in a row off from college! (First and only time of the year if you count it by calender year seeing as while I have 4 weeks off now, I only got from the 14th to the 31st) LOL
September:
• Labor Day cookout and a lovely talk learning more about God and Jesus and a walk around admiring God's beauty among us!
October:
• Halloween parties! :D :D :D
November:
• Finally joined a church after nearly 5 months of attending!
December:
• Christmas!
• Christmas parties!
• Giving gifts!
• Dad's birthday
• A little more about "letting go and letting God" ...
• Being able to confidently share Jesus and my belief in Him with others!
• New Years' Eve! And my dear friends birthday and party and just having close friends here with me at this very minute! What a way to end a year and start a new one!!
This is just a very, very short list, but it is what comes to mind on this wonderful night! <3
I am so blessed beyond words and I say it all the time, but I seriously don't know if any of y'all will e v e r truly know how much I deeply care about you and love you all.
God has placed you all in my life for a reason, and I pray that through the gift of y'all, I can continue to build my relationship with God, as well as all of you too!
As I said one year ago: 2010 has been a wonderful year and has laid much ground work for 2011 to be even better. How true that was! And I say this: 2011 was an absolutely amazing year! I am excited to see what God has planned for me and where He is leading me! I pray that I continue to have complete faith and continue to surrender and I continue on my journey!
A big thanks to all of you who have impacted my life in so many ways! Whether I told you or not .... but the chances are... you've inspired me in at least one way. :)
God Bless you all this exciting night! Stay safe!
Peace out 2011!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Now that that is done, what's next?
The decking the halls is over.
The fa la la la-ing has come to an end.
Radio stations resume their "normal" music (though some may be continuing through tomorrow).
Family gathered and goes back to the working world tomorrow (or Tuesday).
Gifts have been given and received.
Christmas cards have been mailed.
Family photos were taken.
What now? But of course, how could we forget shopping? Tomorrow is, I believe, the second largest shopping day of the year. Stores open back up at around 6 in the morning. Sales begin. Good bargains and good treasures.
But wait! None of that is what Christmas is even about!
Driving home tonight, it kinda dawned on me: Now that Christmas has come and (almost) gone, what is next?
We start decking the halls and preparing our world for Christmas nearly 2 months before the actual day. Christmas comes, and then it is just gone. There is this huge bustle and pressure to "be prepared and ready" for Christmas. We frantically fill out cards and buy gifts for our loved ones. We give more generously to the people standing outside the stores collecting change. We greet and smile at people more. There is a feeling of joy going around. There is a great preparation for the big day! We get so caught up in what the world makes Christmas to be, that we forget the real meaning of Christmas.
Christmas should not be limited to "just today" or "just this season." Christmas is the birth of Christ! He is the core of all Christian's faith! He is the reason we get up in the morning. He is the reason we are forgiven. It is His blood that has redeemed us. It is His blood that allows us to give and to receive, to gather with friends and family. To celebrate this holy season!
Tomorrow we go back to daily routine. We may wait out the 12 days of Christmas and then take down Christmas decorations, or we may already have the tree taken down and out on the curb. Whatever it may be, keep the spirit of Christmas alive in your heart all year long! Just because Christmas is over, does not mean that we forgot. We still live out the Christian faith by our actions-- what we do all year long!
I want to know this in my heart. I don't just want it to be something my lips say, but I want it to be evident in my daily life! This has been something on my heart for quite some time, but have never really understood until right now. My friends have often laughed with me as I walk down the street in the middle of July whistling and singing Christmas carols. There is something so uplifting and freeing about Christmas. It is Jesus!!!
I go forward with the love of Christ within me! I want to spread the joy of the Lord to everyone I meet. Not just today. Not just this time of year. Not just because I feel that I should. But I want to because that is what Jesus wants me to do ... all year long. So as I go forth singing Christmas carols for the next year, even in the heat of summer, it is just a singing out of thanksgiving for the birth of our Lord and Savior! I am so thankful for the babe born and laid in a manger. Born lowly of low. Humbled before all. Who came and died so we can all live! <3
So I deck the halls in joyful preparation of the coming of the Lord and leave it up to continue the celebration of that wonderful night!
For today is the birthday of Jesus! I want to proclaim the the birth of my Lord and give glory to God forevermore!
The fa la la la-ing has come to an end.
Radio stations resume their "normal" music (though some may be continuing through tomorrow).
Family gathered and goes back to the working world tomorrow (or Tuesday).
Gifts have been given and received.
Christmas cards have been mailed.
Family photos were taken.
What now? But of course, how could we forget shopping? Tomorrow is, I believe, the second largest shopping day of the year. Stores open back up at around 6 in the morning. Sales begin. Good bargains and good treasures.
But wait! None of that is what Christmas is even about!
Driving home tonight, it kinda dawned on me: Now that Christmas has come and (almost) gone, what is next?
We start decking the halls and preparing our world for Christmas nearly 2 months before the actual day. Christmas comes, and then it is just gone. There is this huge bustle and pressure to "be prepared and ready" for Christmas. We frantically fill out cards and buy gifts for our loved ones. We give more generously to the people standing outside the stores collecting change. We greet and smile at people more. There is a feeling of joy going around. There is a great preparation for the big day! We get so caught up in what the world makes Christmas to be, that we forget the real meaning of Christmas.
Christmas should not be limited to "just today" or "just this season." Christmas is the birth of Christ! He is the core of all Christian's faith! He is the reason we get up in the morning. He is the reason we are forgiven. It is His blood that has redeemed us. It is His blood that allows us to give and to receive, to gather with friends and family. To celebrate this holy season!
Tomorrow we go back to daily routine. We may wait out the 12 days of Christmas and then take down Christmas decorations, or we may already have the tree taken down and out on the curb. Whatever it may be, keep the spirit of Christmas alive in your heart all year long! Just because Christmas is over, does not mean that we forgot. We still live out the Christian faith by our actions-- what we do all year long!
I want to know this in my heart. I don't just want it to be something my lips say, but I want it to be evident in my daily life! This has been something on my heart for quite some time, but have never really understood until right now. My friends have often laughed with me as I walk down the street in the middle of July whistling and singing Christmas carols. There is something so uplifting and freeing about Christmas. It is Jesus!!!
I go forward with the love of Christ within me! I want to spread the joy of the Lord to everyone I meet. Not just today. Not just this time of year. Not just because I feel that I should. But I want to because that is what Jesus wants me to do ... all year long. So as I go forth singing Christmas carols for the next year, even in the heat of summer, it is just a singing out of thanksgiving for the birth of our Lord and Savior! I am so thankful for the babe born and laid in a manger. Born lowly of low. Humbled before all. Who came and died so we can all live! <3
So I deck the halls in joyful preparation of the coming of the Lord and leave it up to continue the celebration of that wonderful night!
For today is the birthday of Jesus! I want to proclaim the the birth of my Lord and give glory to God forevermore!
Today is "not just another day"
As Christmas Day was quickly approaching, I began wishing that I had not volunteered to work it. I longed to go to church with my momma and sisters. I longed to go there for breakfast and open gifts together and just have family time. And if I could not do that, I wanted to sleep in. I wanted to make a special breakfast for/with my dad seeing that today is also his birthday. I wanted to just sit back and relax and do nothing, have nothing pressing to do, have no obligations; basically just be lazy.
I began convincing myself that Christmas "is just another day" and that I can work and that that would be that. "Just pretend that it is any other Sunday" I would tell myself. But that just did not settle well with me.
Eventually, I remembered to surrender to God. I need to have that unwavering faith and trust in the Good Lord that everything is happening exactly as He has willed for my life.
What I have learned these past 2 days, is that worrying and regret and trying to stay in control of the situation accomplish nothing. I had the most amazing Christmas Eve! I woke up and my little sisters let me know that they were coming over. While I already had plans, I was beyond thrilled that my dad would be able to spend time with them! I met a friend for coffee and we had such a lovely conversation! I went home and finished making the pot roast for dad's birthday dinner. We ate then just kind of chilled until we started getting ready for church at 8ish. We knew that we needed to get there early; for exactly as anticipated, the church was practically packed by just before 10 (and people were still filing in!). Afterwards, Pastor told us that there were books they were giving out as Christmas gifts. I already had one, but picked up the new one. When we got home close to midnight (as after Mass we drive around and looked at Christmas lights) we drank ginger ale and watched some tv. By 12:30 we were both (almost) ready for bed.
5:30a.m. came way too fast, but I at least made it to work on-time. While my client was still in bed, I bgan reading the book that I got last night from church (Confessions of a Mega Church Pastor: How I discovered the Hidden Treasures of the Catholic Church by Allen Hunt). As soon as I started reading it, all these thoughts came flooding to me and I had the mindset that everyone else needs to read this book; it is just that good. I read through the first couple pages then had to put it down. It dawned on me that this time to read the book and the message the book has is for me at this point. That is not to say that others won't benefit from it, but I cannot read the book with the focus and hope and mindset that someone else will have my same reaction. I asked God to help me realize that the lesson that this book has for me; not what lesson I think it has for anyone else.
I picked up the book and continued reading. I read pages 1-126 in less then 7 hours (which also includes working). The approach Allen uses is so beautiful. He is one of the first people I have come across who comes off so un-biased. He makes a claim, he strongly supports his claim and it is obvious where he stands. What makes me say beautiful and unbiased is the fast that he was a well known senior pastor at a Methodist church. He slowly but surely became Catholic, but when he stepped down from the role of senior pastor, he helped the new pastor transition in easily. How easy it would have been for him to say he no longer believed as them and just turned on his heel and went his merry way? What he did was just beautiful to me.
This is not one of the books that is only read once. Once I finish up the last 15 pages then read the short appendix, I will read it again.
Today has been a day of learning. I am thankful for this opportunity. For if I was not working, I more then likely never would have picked up that book. And even if I had, I never would have put as much time into reading it as I have the past 7 hours.
I have many more questions. More things have come up. But this book had just proven again to me that I need an undying faith and trust and hope in the Lord. There are some points of the book that I am still allowing God to work on within me, but there are just so so so many good aspects of this book! I do highly recommend it! It is not a book saying that one has to become Catholic, it is just one man's strong faith in the Lord and the journey he was on. He goes through some of the hardships him and his wife faced, the medical problems they encountered as well as even when it seemed hopeless, God is still good!
A day that I once wished would be just another day, has proven to be crucial in my growth and faith and walk with God!
I wish all my family and friends the most wonderful of day filled will exuberant joy! For today is the celebration of the birth of Our Lord and Savior! What a beautiful day it is indeed!!!! :D
Merry Christmas- from my web browser to Yours. <3
I began convincing myself that Christmas "is just another day" and that I can work and that that would be that. "Just pretend that it is any other Sunday" I would tell myself. But that just did not settle well with me.
Eventually, I remembered to surrender to God. I need to have that unwavering faith and trust in the Good Lord that everything is happening exactly as He has willed for my life.
What I have learned these past 2 days, is that worrying and regret and trying to stay in control of the situation accomplish nothing. I had the most amazing Christmas Eve! I woke up and my little sisters let me know that they were coming over. While I already had plans, I was beyond thrilled that my dad would be able to spend time with them! I met a friend for coffee and we had such a lovely conversation! I went home and finished making the pot roast for dad's birthday dinner. We ate then just kind of chilled until we started getting ready for church at 8ish. We knew that we needed to get there early; for exactly as anticipated, the church was practically packed by just before 10 (and people were still filing in!). Afterwards, Pastor told us that there were books they were giving out as Christmas gifts. I already had one, but picked up the new one. When we got home close to midnight (as after Mass we drive around and looked at Christmas lights) we drank ginger ale and watched some tv. By 12:30 we were both (almost) ready for bed.
5:30a.m. came way too fast, but I at least made it to work on-time. While my client was still in bed, I bgan reading the book that I got last night from church (Confessions of a Mega Church Pastor: How I discovered the Hidden Treasures of the Catholic Church by Allen Hunt). As soon as I started reading it, all these thoughts came flooding to me and I had the mindset that everyone else needs to read this book; it is just that good. I read through the first couple pages then had to put it down. It dawned on me that this time to read the book and the message the book has is for me at this point. That is not to say that others won't benefit from it, but I cannot read the book with the focus and hope and mindset that someone else will have my same reaction. I asked God to help me realize that the lesson that this book has for me; not what lesson I think it has for anyone else.
I picked up the book and continued reading. I read pages 1-126 in less then 7 hours (which also includes working). The approach Allen uses is so beautiful. He is one of the first people I have come across who comes off so un-biased. He makes a claim, he strongly supports his claim and it is obvious where he stands. What makes me say beautiful and unbiased is the fast that he was a well known senior pastor at a Methodist church. He slowly but surely became Catholic, but when he stepped down from the role of senior pastor, he helped the new pastor transition in easily. How easy it would have been for him to say he no longer believed as them and just turned on his heel and went his merry way? What he did was just beautiful to me.
This is not one of the books that is only read once. Once I finish up the last 15 pages then read the short appendix, I will read it again.
Today has been a day of learning. I am thankful for this opportunity. For if I was not working, I more then likely never would have picked up that book. And even if I had, I never would have put as much time into reading it as I have the past 7 hours.
I have many more questions. More things have come up. But this book had just proven again to me that I need an undying faith and trust and hope in the Lord. There are some points of the book that I am still allowing God to work on within me, but there are just so so so many good aspects of this book! I do highly recommend it! It is not a book saying that one has to become Catholic, it is just one man's strong faith in the Lord and the journey he was on. He goes through some of the hardships him and his wife faced, the medical problems they encountered as well as even when it seemed hopeless, God is still good!
A day that I once wished would be just another day, has proven to be crucial in my growth and faith and walk with God!
I wish all my family and friends the most wonderful of day filled will exuberant joy! For today is the celebration of the birth of Our Lord and Savior! What a beautiful day it is indeed!!!! :D
Merry Christmas- from my web browser to Yours. <3
Friday, December 23, 2011
Only human...
So often as I was growing up I have looked at people and thought they they really have life figured out and really have their life together. Sometimes I long for what they have. Sometimes I want to be like them. I think that even if one day I can obtain half their greatness, then I have lived a good life.
I have mostly outgrown this, but still find myself struggling with it every now and again.
Decisions I make are based off from what I think someone else wants to hear, or what they want to see. I don't answer with the knowledge I have because I am afraid that someone might tell me what I am wrong. I don't say what is on my mind because there is still fear that someone will be driven away. After everything I have learned this past summer, there is a feeling of being right back at square one.
The more research I do to learn more about this walk of life I am on, I am learning and seeing that we all fall short. We are all human, prone to weakness. Prone to short comings and failings and fallings. If we don't experience being "at rock bottom" at least once in our life, we are extremely blessed and fortunate. All those people that I look at and see them happy all of the time, the people I look at and long to have just a small portion of their happiness, the people I see who have it all together and submit everything they are and long to be to God.... they are by no means perfect. An excellent example, yes. They, too, have gone through their fair share of hardships and struggles. They too have gone through mental battles where they didn't know where they stood and had to make a decision as to what they felt God was calling them. Even to this day they still have struggles.
Since I declared this past summer that I am living my life for God and submitting my everything to Him, I have felt this huge burden that I must be perfect. That I must always be happy. That I can never let anyone see my weaknesses. That I cannot make myself look bad, for if I do, that will take away all of the hard work that I have allowed God to do within me. And the list goes on and on.
That could no be farther from the truth. I AM human, and I do make mistakes, and I do and will fall short of living my life for the greater glory of God! All these weeks of having this "weight of perfection" on my heart, I have finally given it over to God, for God has granted me this realization that I do not have to be perfect. He knows I have a sinful nature, but He loves me anyways! All He asks is that I try my best and continue to get to know Him, love Him and serve Him. He has such unconditional love for me-- for You!
With people looking up to me, I felt that I was expected to fit into a perfect mold. That the person I have become would be defiled if I fell back into a weakness of the old me.
Back in September, I received this message from a dear, dear friend:
"In light of my previous (Facebook) wall post, I realized something rather important, and wanted to tell you. Basically, I wanted to say that you've come such a long way, and though I know our stories are very different, we were effected in a few similar ways. I don't know that I could have gotten to where I am now, if you hadn't been one step ahead of me all the way (and still are!) showing me where to go and how to get there. So, thank you. (:"
I was honored. It was one of the first times anyone had approached me and told me that they saw God's Hand working in me and transforming my life. Just where I had been and where I had gotten to by September 24, 2011!
For the next 3 months I continued (and continue) to let God work within me and shape and mold me into the person He wants me to be. I didn't let these kind works get to my head and make me think that my journey was over. For in all reality, my journey has just began and will last my lifetime. I never ever want to stop learning and growing!
Life has certainly not been all peaches and cream lately. I can see my growth because when something does not go *my way* I can see my reliance on God and I go to Him for my strength, instead of relying on another human for it. As in the past, there would have been a huge dramatic flare up and a dwelling in self pity for who knows how long.
This growth became apparent to me, when I posted this Facebook status after a rather emotional, trying night where I was anything but graceful or humble as well as countless other things... and then a dear, dear sweetheart and I began messaging each other.
I have mostly outgrown this, but still find myself struggling with it every now and again.
Decisions I make are based off from what I think someone else wants to hear, or what they want to see. I don't answer with the knowledge I have because I am afraid that someone might tell me what I am wrong. I don't say what is on my mind because there is still fear that someone will be driven away. After everything I have learned this past summer, there is a feeling of being right back at square one.
The more research I do to learn more about this walk of life I am on, I am learning and seeing that we all fall short. We are all human, prone to weakness. Prone to short comings and failings and fallings. If we don't experience being "at rock bottom" at least once in our life, we are extremely blessed and fortunate. All those people that I look at and see them happy all of the time, the people I look at and long to have just a small portion of their happiness, the people I see who have it all together and submit everything they are and long to be to God.... they are by no means perfect. An excellent example, yes. They, too, have gone through their fair share of hardships and struggles. They too have gone through mental battles where they didn't know where they stood and had to make a decision as to what they felt God was calling them. Even to this day they still have struggles.
Since I declared this past summer that I am living my life for God and submitting my everything to Him, I have felt this huge burden that I must be perfect. That I must always be happy. That I can never let anyone see my weaknesses. That I cannot make myself look bad, for if I do, that will take away all of the hard work that I have allowed God to do within me. And the list goes on and on.
That could no be farther from the truth. I AM human, and I do make mistakes, and I do and will fall short of living my life for the greater glory of God! All these weeks of having this "weight of perfection" on my heart, I have finally given it over to God, for God has granted me this realization that I do not have to be perfect. He knows I have a sinful nature, but He loves me anyways! All He asks is that I try my best and continue to get to know Him, love Him and serve Him. He has such unconditional love for me-- for You!
With people looking up to me, I felt that I was expected to fit into a perfect mold. That the person I have become would be defiled if I fell back into a weakness of the old me.
Back in September, I received this message from a dear, dear friend:
"In light of my previous (Facebook) wall post, I realized something rather important, and wanted to tell you. Basically, I wanted to say that you've come such a long way, and though I know our stories are very different, we were effected in a few similar ways. I don't know that I could have gotten to where I am now, if you hadn't been one step ahead of me all the way (and still are!) showing me where to go and how to get there. So, thank you. (:"
I was honored. It was one of the first times anyone had approached me and told me that they saw God's Hand working in me and transforming my life. Just where I had been and where I had gotten to by September 24, 2011!
For the next 3 months I continued (and continue) to let God work within me and shape and mold me into the person He wants me to be. I didn't let these kind works get to my head and make me think that my journey was over. For in all reality, my journey has just began and will last my lifetime. I never ever want to stop learning and growing!
Life has certainly not been all peaches and cream lately. I can see my growth because when something does not go *my way* I can see my reliance on God and I go to Him for my strength, instead of relying on another human for it. As in the past, there would have been a huge dramatic flare up and a dwelling in self pity for who knows how long.
This growth became apparent to me, when I posted this Facebook status after a rather emotional, trying night where I was anything but graceful or humble as well as countless other things... and then a dear, dear sweetheart and I began messaging each other.
My status:
"Doing what must be done certainly is not easy. Especially when it involves good byes. Here's to having unwavering faith in the Good Lord upstairs to continue to hold us close to Him and bless our lives so very richly indeed. Here's to learning new words and having inside jokes and learning more what love actually is and dancing and prasing God in the rain!. Every tear shed is washing away the old self, allowing for new growth! Thanking God for everything He has revealed to me thru this experience! No ammount of words can sum it up. Amen."
After receiving virtual hugs and prayers, I responded:
"The prayers are MUCHO appreciated! I know God has a plan. Just stepping out and having faith.... I know it will be rewarded. All of my prayers are being answered. Not exactly as I wished, but years from now I will look back on this and see God's ever present hand in it all."
What brought tears to me eyes what this reply:
"You are such an incredible woman. I don't know that I've ever met anyone as brave and as trusting as you. Really. One day, I wish to have acquired even a little bit of those qualities from watching you along your own journeys."
That. That right there. I had to reread it. I have never been told anything like that about myself before. It was everything in others that I admired, but never ever saw within myself. I literally got down on my knees and thanked God for working in me. For opening my heart to receive Him. For opening the eyes and hearts of others to let Him work in their lives. For allowing me to be the tool that He is using to bring others closer to Him. How beautiful!
It has been through God's grace alone (which includes all of you wonderful people in my life offering encouragement and support) that I have been able to keep my faith, hope, and trust in Him. I know I will have moments of weakness. I know I will have moments where I am just human. I know there will be short comings, and many, many other things. I am by no means perfect. I am human. I cannot live up to any standards that anyone has set for me, because in all honesty, I strive to live up to God's standards. I fall short of His glory. I am selfish and want what I want despite God telling me no. I sin and can be stubborn. But God loves me anyway.
As I said to my dear friend (still the same one I have been quoting): "I am tring to stay positive. I know there will be moments of weakness, but it is in those moments that God is working in me and making me stronger."
Her reply... so simple, so sweet, so true:
"I totally understand. (: I know that you'll be able to get through everything, and come out better than you were before."
With God's grace alone, I can fulfill the perfect plan He has for me. I know He has something wonderful in store for me. I pray that God continues to grant me patience. And that He continues to bless me with such amazing people in my life. You are all such a joy to have in my life. You are all such an enormous blessing to me. A bigger blessing than any one of you will ever know. I cherish you all and pray that you grow closer to God and seek first and foremost the kingdom of God. None of us are perfect. All we can do is try our best -- and live for the greater glory of God. Amen.
That. That right there. I had to reread it. I have never been told anything like that about myself before. It was everything in others that I admired, but never ever saw within myself. I literally got down on my knees and thanked God for working in me. For opening my heart to receive Him. For opening the eyes and hearts of others to let Him work in their lives. For allowing me to be the tool that He is using to bring others closer to Him. How beautiful!
It has been through God's grace alone (which includes all of you wonderful people in my life offering encouragement and support) that I have been able to keep my faith, hope, and trust in Him. I know I will have moments of weakness. I know I will have moments where I am just human. I know there will be short comings, and many, many other things. I am by no means perfect. I am human. I cannot live up to any standards that anyone has set for me, because in all honesty, I strive to live up to God's standards. I fall short of His glory. I am selfish and want what I want despite God telling me no. I sin and can be stubborn. But God loves me anyway.
As I said to my dear friend (still the same one I have been quoting): "I am tring to stay positive. I know there will be moments of weakness, but it is in those moments that God is working in me and making me stronger."
Her reply... so simple, so sweet, so true:
"I totally understand. (: I know that you'll be able to get through everything, and come out better than you were before."
With God's grace alone, I can fulfill the perfect plan He has for me. I know He has something wonderful in store for me. I pray that God continues to grant me patience. And that He continues to bless me with such amazing people in my life. You are all such a joy to have in my life. You are all such an enormous blessing to me. A bigger blessing than any one of you will ever know. I cherish you all and pray that you grow closer to God and seek first and foremost the kingdom of God. None of us are perfect. All we can do is try our best -- and live for the greater glory of God. Amen.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
It starts with good bye ... (sorta)
Good byes. The majority of the time they are disliked, hated, dreaded, feared, and sometimes even avoided altogether. There is a desire to hold onto the past, a longing for what was once had and a wish to have it all back. Unfortunately, life does not always, if ever, work out exactly as it is humanly planned.
Last night I said good bye to one of my nearest, dearest, bestest friends ever. This has been the first person I have gone to with with everything and anything -the good and the bad, the happy and the sad.
Saying good bye has opened new doors, not just for me, but for said individual. As much as it hurts. As hard as it was to say the words. As hard as it was to part ways.... How much I longed to hang on. How much I struggled with letting go. For the past several weeks I was hoping and praying that this feeling would just go away and that a good bye would not be necessary. But without good bye, there would still be selfishness and a hanging onto something that God is still working on perfecting for me. There would not have been a surrender of my own will. I would not be doing what God was calling me to do, but waiting in vain for my own selfish desires to be fulfilled. How happy would I be then? I had to listen to God and take a step of faith.
For so long I have been praying "to be taken out side my comfort zone and to take steps of faith into the unknown." Wow. I get chills as I write that. That is exactly what happened this morning at midnight. I was definitely not in my comfort zone. It took great faith and courage to part ways. If I could have avoided it, I would have.
I cannot let it consume me. I cannot regret what needed to be done. It is all a part of God's Master Plan for my life! One day this will all make semi-perfect since to me. I will look back on this and see just how important it was for my growth.
I thank God for the patient understanding heart that received me. Everything about it just proved God's Hand at work -- again. Even during fits of stubbornness, I was still received so gracefully and beautifully.
Is this good bye forever, or is it just a "until I see you next time?" I really don't know. I would love it to be the latter of the two, but I take comfort that God is breaking this situation and rebuilding it into something beautiful that only He can imagine.
Often times I can be just that stubborn and move forward, but with God's good grace, He is slowly but surely breaking that heart of stone and making it a heart of flesh. I am ever so thankful for that!
The past 6 months so many walls have been torn down. So many old woulds have been treated and are well on their way to being fully healed. I have a new hope... or just hope in general. I am happier. I have God. God is so ever present in my life! People have entered my life and are inspiring me in so many ways unimaginable!
Currently, this good bye hurts. There is much pain. But there is hope. So much hope. There is no need to dwell on the pain. There is freedom found in Christ.
So, here is to wherever the Good Lord is taking me and you. Here is to happy times together. Sad times together. All the inbetween times. Here's to inside jokes and laughing for absolutely no apparent reason except that you are you and I am me. Here's to long, late night conversations. Here's to the acceptance of each other with no expectation to fit into a mold. Here's to discovering what love can be. Here's to building a solid foundation on Christ that will be so super beneficial in the future. Here's to dancing in the rain and knowing God is holding us in the palm of His hands. Here's to learning about ourselves. Here's to seeking first and foremost the kingdom of God and seeing where God is, has and will, take us and leaving it all in His able hands-even when it is not what we would like. Here is to everything you are, and everything you long to be. Here's to something beautiful.... beautiful beyond words.
I thank God for all that He has done. I thank God for the wonderful gift that you have been, are, and continue to be. Wherever road He leads us down. You will always have a place in my heart. So this is good bye .... sorta.
Then I had an after-thought.
It has dawned on me .... this cannot be good bye forever! There is a poke war to be won!
Last night I said good bye to one of my nearest, dearest, bestest friends ever. This has been the first person I have gone to with with everything and anything -the good and the bad, the happy and the sad.
Saying good bye has opened new doors, not just for me, but for said individual. As much as it hurts. As hard as it was to say the words. As hard as it was to part ways.... How much I longed to hang on. How much I struggled with letting go. For the past several weeks I was hoping and praying that this feeling would just go away and that a good bye would not be necessary. But without good bye, there would still be selfishness and a hanging onto something that God is still working on perfecting for me. There would not have been a surrender of my own will. I would not be doing what God was calling me to do, but waiting in vain for my own selfish desires to be fulfilled. How happy would I be then? I had to listen to God and take a step of faith.
For so long I have been praying "to be taken out side my comfort zone and to take steps of faith into the unknown." Wow. I get chills as I write that. That is exactly what happened this morning at midnight. I was definitely not in my comfort zone. It took great faith and courage to part ways. If I could have avoided it, I would have.
I cannot let it consume me. I cannot regret what needed to be done. It is all a part of God's Master Plan for my life! One day this will all make semi-perfect since to me. I will look back on this and see just how important it was for my growth.
I thank God for the patient understanding heart that received me. Everything about it just proved God's Hand at work -- again. Even during fits of stubbornness, I was still received so gracefully and beautifully.
Is this good bye forever, or is it just a "until I see you next time?" I really don't know. I would love it to be the latter of the two, but I take comfort that God is breaking this situation and rebuilding it into something beautiful that only He can imagine.
Often times I can be just that stubborn and move forward, but with God's good grace, He is slowly but surely breaking that heart of stone and making it a heart of flesh. I am ever so thankful for that!
The past 6 months so many walls have been torn down. So many old woulds have been treated and are well on their way to being fully healed. I have a new hope... or just hope in general. I am happier. I have God. God is so ever present in my life! People have entered my life and are inspiring me in so many ways unimaginable!
Currently, this good bye hurts. There is much pain. But there is hope. So much hope. There is no need to dwell on the pain. There is freedom found in Christ.
So, here is to wherever the Good Lord is taking me and you. Here is to happy times together. Sad times together. All the inbetween times. Here's to inside jokes and laughing for absolutely no apparent reason except that you are you and I am me. Here's to long, late night conversations. Here's to the acceptance of each other with no expectation to fit into a mold. Here's to discovering what love can be. Here's to building a solid foundation on Christ that will be so super beneficial in the future. Here's to dancing in the rain and knowing God is holding us in the palm of His hands. Here's to learning about ourselves. Here's to seeking first and foremost the kingdom of God and seeing where God is, has and will, take us and leaving it all in His able hands-even when it is not what we would like. Here is to everything you are, and everything you long to be. Here's to something beautiful.... beautiful beyond words.
I thank God for all that He has done. I thank God for the wonderful gift that you have been, are, and continue to be. Wherever road He leads us down. You will always have a place in my heart. So this is good bye .... sorta.
Then I had an after-thought.
It has dawned on me .... this cannot be good bye forever! There is a poke war to be won!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Thanksgiving may be over, but giving thanks is all year 'round.
Last night I was talking to a dear friend and just right in the middle of a light-hearted conversation, I stopped and said that I needed to take the time to thank God for how wonderfully indeed He has been blessing me and continues to bless me.
There is much in my life that I could do without. There are many things that are only a convenience. There are so many small things that I could take for granted. But no, I want to thank God for every single thing. Everything, no matter how big or how small, comes from Him above.
I have been blessed so richly with what I have and I want to appreciate it all and know that it comes from the good Lord above!
I have been blessed with a loving dad who helps me out in every way he can. I appreciate this, and while it would be easy to take advantage of him and mooch off from him, that is not the right thing to do. My dad is great and I thank God for working in our relationship and helping us to reconnect and build a bond that we never had.
Talking with a wonderful friend today, it occurred to me, yet again, just how much I have grown over the past year and a half.
Living with my dad has taught me much and helped me grow in ways unimaginable.
I remember my mom telling me as a young child that I will appreciate my things better once I am older and actually have to pay for them. I believed this to be true, but it is one of those things that is never fully understood until it is actually experienced. An example being: Since I am the one who does the majority of the baking in the house, I have bought many of the mixing bowls, glass baking ware as well as other odds and ends. I certainly do appreciate them, and thank God that I was able to contribute in that way (as my dad gets to enjoy the nomminess of what is make in and with these things!).
I have a very unique situation. I can honestly say that I never imagined that my life would be like it is today. I have been through some rather trying situations and made quite poor, stupid decisions, but all in all, every circumstance has shaped me into whom I am today. While I am not proud of many choices and certainly do not brag about them, I accept that they are a part of me and that I have grown from them and they help form me as I continue on this walk called life!
So many people have entered my life whom I am thankful for! It does my heart good to run into a friend at school and be greeted with a warm smile and tight hug! There is such joy is meeting a friend for coffee or lunch on set days of the week and just being able to be me and grow together as women of God! I have been introduced to theater productions and have since fallen in love with watching these people on stage, then followed by a late night dinner (or breakfast) at IHOP where we just enjoy each others company and spend quality time together! Having people whom I can turn to with just about any problem that life is throwing my way. People to turn to to pray together, to seek God together, to just enjoy life, seeking to do the will of God in all things!
Six months ago I never imagined my life would look like this. I am deeply amazed at where God has led me. He still continues to lead me, and for that I am forever grateful!
What a blessing it is to wake up each morning and take in all of God's goodness!
I pray that the veil be lifted from my eyes and that God's glory shines forth from everything and that I acknowledge Him in it all! I pray that Christ's light radiates from within me and that I can be a source of light, comfort, strength, etc., to everyone I meet. But not because of my own strength, but only because of God's strength within me. I pray that God continues to work through me and that through me, others come to know, love, and serve Christ here on earth, ultimately achieving eternal life in Heaven with our Father.
There is much in my life that I could do without. There are many things that are only a convenience. There are so many small things that I could take for granted. But no, I want to thank God for every single thing. Everything, no matter how big or how small, comes from Him above.
I have been blessed so richly with what I have and I want to appreciate it all and know that it comes from the good Lord above!
I have been blessed with a loving dad who helps me out in every way he can. I appreciate this, and while it would be easy to take advantage of him and mooch off from him, that is not the right thing to do. My dad is great and I thank God for working in our relationship and helping us to reconnect and build a bond that we never had.
Talking with a wonderful friend today, it occurred to me, yet again, just how much I have grown over the past year and a half.
Living with my dad has taught me much and helped me grow in ways unimaginable.
I remember my mom telling me as a young child that I will appreciate my things better once I am older and actually have to pay for them. I believed this to be true, but it is one of those things that is never fully understood until it is actually experienced. An example being: Since I am the one who does the majority of the baking in the house, I have bought many of the mixing bowls, glass baking ware as well as other odds and ends. I certainly do appreciate them, and thank God that I was able to contribute in that way (as my dad gets to enjoy the nomminess of what is make in and with these things!).
I have a very unique situation. I can honestly say that I never imagined that my life would be like it is today. I have been through some rather trying situations and made quite poor, stupid decisions, but all in all, every circumstance has shaped me into whom I am today. While I am not proud of many choices and certainly do not brag about them, I accept that they are a part of me and that I have grown from them and they help form me as I continue on this walk called life!
So many people have entered my life whom I am thankful for! It does my heart good to run into a friend at school and be greeted with a warm smile and tight hug! There is such joy is meeting a friend for coffee or lunch on set days of the week and just being able to be me and grow together as women of God! I have been introduced to theater productions and have since fallen in love with watching these people on stage, then followed by a late night dinner (or breakfast) at IHOP where we just enjoy each others company and spend quality time together! Having people whom I can turn to with just about any problem that life is throwing my way. People to turn to to pray together, to seek God together, to just enjoy life, seeking to do the will of God in all things!
Six months ago I never imagined my life would look like this. I am deeply amazed at where God has led me. He still continues to lead me, and for that I am forever grateful!
What a blessing it is to wake up each morning and take in all of God's goodness!
I pray that the veil be lifted from my eyes and that God's glory shines forth from everything and that I acknowledge Him in it all! I pray that Christ's light radiates from within me and that I can be a source of light, comfort, strength, etc., to everyone I meet. But not because of my own strength, but only because of God's strength within me. I pray that God continues to work through me and that through me, others come to know, love, and serve Christ here on earth, ultimately achieving eternal life in Heaven with our Father.
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:33-34).
Friday, December 2, 2011
Keep Believing!
While yesterday, I turned on the radio and began searching for a station that I could tune into (seeing as I was about 75 miles out from my familiar radio stations).
So, the first thing that I actually came to was Journey's Don't Stop Believing (lyrics follow).
I have heard the song before, but have never actually taken the time to listen to it. Something about it inspired me and from then out I searched it on youtube and listened to it on repeat the entire way back into town.
While it is a good song with a good message (Don't stop believing), it is not really clear on what exactly it is that we don't stop believing... But to me, it just reinforced within to keep believing in God. To keep my focus on Him and continue to aspire to be great things--as long as it is what God Wills for me.
And oh how I did need to remember this today. This afternoon God took me and broke me down again to rebuild me into something beautiful. Amazing how I can look back on that and see God's hand in it. It certainly was not seen as it was happening. I asked God at one point just to take my burden from me, only to realize a short while later that He was using all that to strengthen my relationship with Him!
While life certainly is not going to be easy, I just need to remember to keep believing (in God!!!!!) and continue to surrender my will and do His will and live my life for Him. Amen!
Journey- Don't Stop Believing
Just a small town girl, livin' in a lonely world
She took the midnight train goin' anywhere
Just a city boy, born and raised in south Detroit
He took the midnight train goin' anywhere
A singer in a smokey room
A smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night
It goes on and on and on and on
(Chorus)
Strangers waiting, up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlights people, living just to find emotion
Hiding, somewhere in the night.
Working hard to get my fill,
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin' anything to roll the dice,
Just one more time
Some will win, some will lose
Some were born to sing the blues
Oh, the movie never ends
It goes on and on and on and on
(Chorus)
Don't stop believin'
Hold on to the feelin'
Streetlights people
Don't stop believin'
Hold on
Streetlight people
Don't stop believin'
Hold on to the feelin'
Streetlights people
So, the first thing that I actually came to was Journey's Don't Stop Believing (lyrics follow).
I have heard the song before, but have never actually taken the time to listen to it. Something about it inspired me and from then out I searched it on youtube and listened to it on repeat the entire way back into town.
While it is a good song with a good message (Don't stop believing), it is not really clear on what exactly it is that we don't stop believing... But to me, it just reinforced within to keep believing in God. To keep my focus on Him and continue to aspire to be great things--as long as it is what God Wills for me.
And oh how I did need to remember this today. This afternoon God took me and broke me down again to rebuild me into something beautiful. Amazing how I can look back on that and see God's hand in it. It certainly was not seen as it was happening. I asked God at one point just to take my burden from me, only to realize a short while later that He was using all that to strengthen my relationship with Him!
While life certainly is not going to be easy, I just need to remember to keep believing (in God!!!!!) and continue to surrender my will and do His will and live my life for Him. Amen!
Journey- Don't Stop Believing
Just a small town girl, livin' in a lonely world
She took the midnight train goin' anywhere
Just a city boy, born and raised in south Detroit
He took the midnight train goin' anywhere
A singer in a smokey room
A smell of wine and cheap perfume
For a smile they can share the night
It goes on and on and on and on
(Chorus)
Strangers waiting, up and down the boulevard
Their shadows searching in the night
Streetlights people, living just to find emotion
Hiding, somewhere in the night.
Working hard to get my fill,
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin' anything to roll the dice,
Just one more time
Some will win, some will lose
Some were born to sing the blues
Oh, the movie never ends
It goes on and on and on and on
(Chorus)
Don't stop believin'
Hold on to the feelin'
Streetlights people
Don't stop believin'
Hold on
Streetlight people
Don't stop believin'
Hold on to the feelin'
Streetlights people
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Poem 11/23/2011
Just a little whisper, silent as can be,
Came from the lips that no one could see.
There was no desire to listen, as this voice was not close by,
It came from a distant place that was missed by the naked eye.
It did not enter through the ears like noise so often will,
But instead went deep within, and the heart it did fill.
There was a strong desire to ignore it, and carry on with the day,
But the voice spoke again, saying, “I am here to stay.”
In an instant all was clear, this voice was from heaven above,
There was absolutely nothing to fear, but instead everything to love.
The voice is not always so subtle, but for sure out of sight,
It never leaves or misguides, but teaches wrong from right.
Indeed, what a blessing it is, to have this voice within,
To keep the paths of life straight, and help to avoid all sin.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
You are what you eat
Well, that is debatable, but that is not what I am going to talk about.
Last night, I was reading 2 Mc 6:18-31, and it really got me thinking. Mind you, all this in my own personal interpretation and what it means to me.
Here was a man, Eleazar, who refused to eat the pork. He willing went to the torture chambers because he would rather die then give in -- for it was unlawful to eat the meat.
It was suggested that perhaps they serve him a meat of his choosing at this "unlawful ritual meal," and he just pretend that he was eating the pig for he was a close friend of the host. Still, Eleazar refused.
Eleazar's intentions were noble; he did not want to give the false impression that he was doing something unlawful just to save his own life. He did not want to cause others to sin by them also eating the meat and thinking that it was alright because he had done it first.
That. That part right there. Stop a moment and think: how many times do we cause our brother to sin? How many times do we do something to please our friend, but the very action itself is unlawful to God? Sadly, looking back at my life, I can certainly see areas where these are most definitely true.
As scary as it sounds to the human mind, dying doesn't sound very pleasant-- even if we firmly believed that God was waiting for us with open arms on the other side.
Eleazar knew what God's laws were and he was willing to die in defense to it! He willingly submitted to the torture from man, knowing full well that he was going straight into his Heavenly Father's arms.
That was like a huge wake up call for me. It has challenged me to rethink what I am about to say or do. People are watching me. People are taking note of what I say and what I do. The last thing I want to happen is that some one sins because I made the choice to honor man over God and they thought since I compromised, then they can too. Ultimately, I need to live a Christ-filled life. Striving to live a life for God ultimately leads to me doing right and leading others to God; not the other way around.
So thus I continue to live my life with the intention of doing all that is pleasing to God. I am working towards having a sincere love for God and a hate for sin not only because it separates me from God, but mainly because God Himself hates sin.
I am not what I eat -- especially true if I don't eat it.
"Therefore, if food causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause my brother to stumble" (1 Corinthians 8:13).
Last night, I was reading 2 Mc 6:18-31, and it really got me thinking. Mind you, all this in my own personal interpretation and what it means to me.
Here was a man, Eleazar, who refused to eat the pork. He willing went to the torture chambers because he would rather die then give in -- for it was unlawful to eat the meat.
It was suggested that perhaps they serve him a meat of his choosing at this "unlawful ritual meal," and he just pretend that he was eating the pig for he was a close friend of the host. Still, Eleazar refused.
Eleazar's intentions were noble; he did not want to give the false impression that he was doing something unlawful just to save his own life. He did not want to cause others to sin by them also eating the meat and thinking that it was alright because he had done it first.
That. That part right there. Stop a moment and think: how many times do we cause our brother to sin? How many times do we do something to please our friend, but the very action itself is unlawful to God? Sadly, looking back at my life, I can certainly see areas where these are most definitely true.
As scary as it sounds to the human mind, dying doesn't sound very pleasant-- even if we firmly believed that God was waiting for us with open arms on the other side.
Eleazar knew what God's laws were and he was willing to die in defense to it! He willingly submitted to the torture from man, knowing full well that he was going straight into his Heavenly Father's arms.
That was like a huge wake up call for me. It has challenged me to rethink what I am about to say or do. People are watching me. People are taking note of what I say and what I do. The last thing I want to happen is that some one sins because I made the choice to honor man over God and they thought since I compromised, then they can too. Ultimately, I need to live a Christ-filled life. Striving to live a life for God ultimately leads to me doing right and leading others to God; not the other way around.
So thus I continue to live my life with the intention of doing all that is pleasing to God. I am working towards having a sincere love for God and a hate for sin not only because it separates me from God, but mainly because God Himself hates sin.
I am not what I eat -- especially true if I don't eat it.
"Therefore, if food causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause my brother to stumble" (1 Corinthians 8:13).
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Not the "Norm"
I want to be an exception to the norm.
In today's society, it is hard to stand up for my beliefs. Either hardly anyone today shares my beliefs, or it is just that everyone who does is like me: too afraid to speak up.
My thoughts and beliefs cannot be expressed unless they are "politically correct."
Our world is becoming so gray. There appears to be no "right from wrong." We strive so hard to make everyone feel welcome and make sure that everyone is treated equal. We loose sight of morally right and wrong. Does anyone still have morals and values in this day and age? I can see why people like things "black and white" because then there is a clear distinction between right and wrong.
I, either fortunately or unfortunately, see things in life as either a dark shade of gray, or off-white. I have "black and white standards" for my life, but I cannot honestly judge others based on my own personal morals.
But anywhoo, I strive to be the person that God wants me to be. I am not trying to fit a mold that society, or anyone else for that matter, thinks that I should be in. I say this day in and day out, and continue to say it: God is in complete control of my life!
Without God steering my ship, I have no idea where I would be in life. I was just talking with some amazing women of God last night and recounting how I used to flow with society and be quiet about God in my life. As one girl put it, "Whisper Christian."
Unfortunately, we are in a day and age where Church and State are separated. One of my professors told the class that she could make us leave if she (or a classmate) was offended by any one's religious practices. I still carry my Bible around campus when I can.
Though I have to say, it gets sticky: We are allowed freedom of religion, but as soon as someone is offended by something that someone says or does (whether directed at an individual or not) then it seems as though the standards change.
Jesus himself said that we will be persecuted because of Him! While as humans we do not want to undergo this, when we look at this from a spiritual standpoint, how beautiful is that? How beautiful is it to surrender our lives to God so much to the point that although we are outcasts, and frowned upon by others and talked about and laughed at and mocked and so so so much more, how amazingly beautiful it is to realize that God is protecting me and that I have GOD on my side!
"You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved" (Matthew 10:22).
In today's society, it is hard to stand up for my beliefs. Either hardly anyone today shares my beliefs, or it is just that everyone who does is like me: too afraid to speak up.
My thoughts and beliefs cannot be expressed unless they are "politically correct."
Our world is becoming so gray. There appears to be no "right from wrong." We strive so hard to make everyone feel welcome and make sure that everyone is treated equal. We loose sight of morally right and wrong. Does anyone still have morals and values in this day and age? I can see why people like things "black and white" because then there is a clear distinction between right and wrong.
I, either fortunately or unfortunately, see things in life as either a dark shade of gray, or off-white. I have "black and white standards" for my life, but I cannot honestly judge others based on my own personal morals.
But anywhoo, I strive to be the person that God wants me to be. I am not trying to fit a mold that society, or anyone else for that matter, thinks that I should be in. I say this day in and day out, and continue to say it: God is in complete control of my life!
Without God steering my ship, I have no idea where I would be in life. I was just talking with some amazing women of God last night and recounting how I used to flow with society and be quiet about God in my life. As one girl put it, "Whisper Christian."
Unfortunately, we are in a day and age where Church and State are separated. One of my professors told the class that she could make us leave if she (or a classmate) was offended by any one's religious practices. I still carry my Bible around campus when I can.
Though I have to say, it gets sticky: We are allowed freedom of religion, but as soon as someone is offended by something that someone says or does (whether directed at an individual or not) then it seems as though the standards change.
Jesus himself said that we will be persecuted because of Him! While as humans we do not want to undergo this, when we look at this from a spiritual standpoint, how beautiful is that? How beautiful is it to surrender our lives to God so much to the point that although we are outcasts, and frowned upon by others and talked about and laughed at and mocked and so so so much more, how amazingly beautiful it is to realize that God is protecting me and that I have GOD on my side!
"You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved" (Matthew 10:22).
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Planting a small seedling of time for God and watching it grow!
Making time for God. It seems so simple! It seems so logical. But then why can it be so hard? Too often we get so caught up in trying to fit everything into the time that we are given, that we forget that we owe our very existence to God alone!
It has not been until recently that I have started making an effort to make time for God. By planting that very first seedling, more and and more time has seemed to "grow" from it! Now, in every "spare moment" that I find, I am spending it with the Lord! From Adoration, to Mass, to college group, to Bible Study, to reading the Bible and praying my Rosary, to just sitting quietly loving the Lord for all He is and for what he has done in my life!
Back in June, I was barely even meeting my Sunday obligation. I was still going to Church, but it was more like a "going because I had to, and thus let's get it over with." I complained that there was not enough time to do as much as I wanted to. I want to do so much more then time was allowing. All the while forgetting (or trying to ignore) God in my life. But all the while, God was there; God was calling me by name.
Living for God certainly did not come easy at first, and most certainly did not happen overnight. It started a little at a time and has blossomed into what it is today, and continues to grow into what God wills for me!
I highly encourage Bible reading. I had never picked up my Bible with such a sincere intent to read it until this past summer. And even then, it was like reading it maybe once a week, maybe two days in a row, and there were plenty of week long "dry streaks" where my Bible sat there collecting dust. But something was happening to me. I began reading it more and more. I could feel God working in me. I could see my life improving. I could see more trust and faith and reliance in God and less and less on things of this world! Happiness was, is, no longer found in material goods.
I look at where I am now, and wonder how I used to manage. I used to be miserable and long for things that I thought would make me happy. Oh how thankful I am where I am today and life is only going to get better with keeping my focus on God!
I want Christ to be within me. I want to radiate His light through me. I want to keep this focus on God! That is not to say that life is easy, but it sure is rewarding!
Every "bad day" is God breaking me and rebuilding me and shaping and forming me into something ever so beautiful! God is in control of my life. And it all began with me surrendering my life to Him- a little at a time. He should have always come first and foremost in my life, but unfortunately I got caught up in the ways of this world.
I have an app on my phone for "daily Mass readings" and there is a part that reflects upon one of the 2 to 3 readings. I almost always find them inspiring, and this one in particular has inspired this post, and I felt inclined to share the original source, seeing if I tried to take credit for something that is not mine, it would not get the point across as eloquently as Don does here.
I wish these were my words because they are so beautiful, but all the credit goes to Don Schwager in response to Luke 17:7-10
Gospel
Lk 17:7-10
Jesus said to the Apostles:
'Who among you would say to your servant
who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field,
'Come here immediately and take your place at table?'
Would he not rather say to him,
'Prepare something for me to eat.
Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink.
You may eat and drink when I am finished?'
Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded?
So should it be with you.
When you have done all you have been commanded, say,
'We are unprofitable servants;
we have done what we were obliged to do.'
The Reflection:
"We are unworthy servants;
we have only done what was our duty"
Meditation:
"Are you ready to give the Lord your best, regardless
of what it might cost you? Perhaps we are like the laborer in Jesus' parable
who expected special favor and reward for going the extra mile? How
unfair for the master to compel his servant to give more than what was
expected! Don't we love to assert our rights: "I will give only what is
required and no more!" But who can satisfy the claims of love? Jesus used
this parable of the dutiful servant to explain that we can never put God
in our debt or make the claim that God owes us something. We must regard
ourselves as God's servants, just as Jesus came "not to be served, but
to serve" (Matthew 20:28). Service of God and of neighbor is both a
voluntary or free act and a sacred duty. One can volunteer for service
or be compelled to do service for one's country or one's family when special
needs arise. Likewise, God expects us to give him the worship and praise
which is his due. And he gladly accepts the free-will offering of
our lives to him and to his service. What makes our offering pleasing to
God is the love we express in the gift of self-giving. True love is sacrificial,
generous, and selfless.
How can we love others selflessly and unconditionally? Scripture tells
us that God himself is
love (1 John 4:16) because he is the author
of life and source of all relationships. He created us in love for love
and he fills our hearts with the boundless love that gives whatever is
good for the sake of another (Romans 5:5). If we love one another, God
abides in us and his love is perfected in us (1 John 4:12). God honors
the faithful servant who loves and serves others generously. He is ever
ready to work in and through us for his glory. We must remember, however,
that God can never be indebted to us. We have no claim on him. His love
compels us to give him our best! And when we have done our best, we have
simply done our duty. We can never outmatch God in doing good and showing
love. God loves us without measure. Does the love of God compel you to
give your best?"
"Lord Jesus, fill my heart with love, gratitude and generosity. Make
me a faithful and zealous servant for you. May I generously pour out my
life in loving service for you and for others, just as you have so generously
poured yourself out in love for me."
It has not been until recently that I have started making an effort to make time for God. By planting that very first seedling, more and and more time has seemed to "grow" from it! Now, in every "spare moment" that I find, I am spending it with the Lord! From Adoration, to Mass, to college group, to Bible Study, to reading the Bible and praying my Rosary, to just sitting quietly loving the Lord for all He is and for what he has done in my life!
Back in June, I was barely even meeting my Sunday obligation. I was still going to Church, but it was more like a "going because I had to, and thus let's get it over with." I complained that there was not enough time to do as much as I wanted to. I want to do so much more then time was allowing. All the while forgetting (or trying to ignore) God in my life. But all the while, God was there; God was calling me by name.
Living for God certainly did not come easy at first, and most certainly did not happen overnight. It started a little at a time and has blossomed into what it is today, and continues to grow into what God wills for me!
I highly encourage Bible reading. I had never picked up my Bible with such a sincere intent to read it until this past summer. And even then, it was like reading it maybe once a week, maybe two days in a row, and there were plenty of week long "dry streaks" where my Bible sat there collecting dust. But something was happening to me. I began reading it more and more. I could feel God working in me. I could see my life improving. I could see more trust and faith and reliance in God and less and less on things of this world! Happiness was, is, no longer found in material goods.
I look at where I am now, and wonder how I used to manage. I used to be miserable and long for things that I thought would make me happy. Oh how thankful I am where I am today and life is only going to get better with keeping my focus on God!
I want Christ to be within me. I want to radiate His light through me. I want to keep this focus on God! That is not to say that life is easy, but it sure is rewarding!
Every "bad day" is God breaking me and rebuilding me and shaping and forming me into something ever so beautiful! God is in control of my life. And it all began with me surrendering my life to Him- a little at a time. He should have always come first and foremost in my life, but unfortunately I got caught up in the ways of this world.
I have an app on my phone for "daily Mass readings" and there is a part that reflects upon one of the 2 to 3 readings. I almost always find them inspiring, and this one in particular has inspired this post, and I felt inclined to share the original source, seeing if I tried to take credit for something that is not mine, it would not get the point across as eloquently as Don does here.
I wish these were my words because they are so beautiful, but all the credit goes to Don Schwager in response to Luke 17:7-10
Gospel
Lk 17:7-10
Jesus said to the Apostles:
'Who among you would say to your servant
who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field,
'Come here immediately and take your place at table?'
Would he not rather say to him,
'Prepare something for me to eat.
Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink.
You may eat and drink when I am finished?'
Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded?
So should it be with you.
When you have done all you have been commanded, say,
'We are unprofitable servants;
we have done what we were obliged to do.'
The Reflection:
"We are unworthy servants;
we have only done what was our duty"
Meditation:
"Are you ready to give the Lord your best, regardless
of what it might cost you? Perhaps we are like the laborer in Jesus' parable
who expected special favor and reward for going the extra mile? How
unfair for the master to compel his servant to give more than what was
expected! Don't we love to assert our rights: "I will give only what is
required and no more!" But who can satisfy the claims of love? Jesus used
this parable of the dutiful servant to explain that we can never put God
in our debt or make the claim that God owes us something. We must regard
ourselves as God's servants, just as Jesus came "not to be served, but
to serve" (Matthew 20:28). Service of God and of neighbor is both a
voluntary or free act and a sacred duty. One can volunteer for service
or be compelled to do service for one's country or one's family when special
needs arise. Likewise, God expects us to give him the worship and praise
which is his due. And he gladly accepts the free-will offering of
our lives to him and to his service. What makes our offering pleasing to
God is the love we express in the gift of self-giving. True love is sacrificial,
generous, and selfless.
How can we love others selflessly and unconditionally? Scripture tells
us that God himself is
love (1 John 4:16) because he is the author
of life and source of all relationships. He created us in love for love
and he fills our hearts with the boundless love that gives whatever is
good for the sake of another (Romans 5:5). If we love one another, God
abides in us and his love is perfected in us (1 John 4:12). God honors
the faithful servant who loves and serves others generously. He is ever
ready to work in and through us for his glory. We must remember, however,
that God can never be indebted to us. We have no claim on him. His love
compels us to give him our best! And when we have done our best, we have
simply done our duty. We can never outmatch God in doing good and showing
love. God loves us without measure. Does the love of God compel you to
give your best?"
"Lord Jesus, fill my heart with love, gratitude and generosity. Make
me a faithful and zealous servant for you. May I generously pour out my
life in loving service for you and for others, just as you have so generously
poured yourself out in love for me."
Sunday, November 6, 2011
What Soil am I?
After reading Matthew 13, I began to wonder what kind of soil I am. Jesus told this parable:
“Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds. 4 As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them. 5 Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. 6 But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn’t have deep roots, they died. 7 Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants. 8 Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted! 9 Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.”
At first, this parable can be confusing. How does scattered seed relate to the Kingdom of God? How can we relate to seeds? Fortunately, Jesus does not leave us hanging. He gives us a very clear explanation and from there we can reflect upon which seed we, ourselves, are.
18 “Now listen to the explanation of the parable about the farmer planting seeds: 19 The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts. 20 The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. 21 But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word. 22 The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. 23 The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!”
The seed is the Word of God. The Word of God is sown into the hearts of the people, and from these seeds are grown one’s desire to live a life for Christ. But we alone cannot take credit for this growth, for growth only comes from God. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 3:6-7:
6 “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 7 So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.
God plants the seed (by using a close friend, song lyrics, a beautiful day, and the list goes on and on), and God allows the seed to take root and grow.
God has planted the seed within me. I want to be the good soil and produce a good harvest. I want the word of God to enter into my heart and change me into a woman of God who serves, honors and loves God all the days of my life! I pray that God works wonders through me and that His seed is being nourished well and that a great harvest will be produced!
23 "The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” That is the kind of soil I strive to be. I want the seed to fall upon good soil, ready to nourish it and give it a good, safe place to rest and grow!
Which soil are you?
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Christ be our Light!
This is the day the Lord hath made, I am rejoicing and I am glad! Another beautiful November day! How abundantly blessed I am! God has been blessing me so richly and words cannot express the gratitude that is in my heart. Thank goodness God knows my heart!
How wonderful it is to live for God and let the light of Christ shine from the inside out! I long for others to experience this joy that burns within me and share in the peace and hope that comes alone with it!
How do we reach out to non-believers, or even believers that have not yet experienced this? I want to profess from mountain tops that God is the Lord of my life and then proceed to tell everything that has been going on in my life! But is that going to persuade others to turn to God? Probably not nearly as effectively as desired.
One of the easiest ways for me to reach out to non-believers and share the light of Christ with them, is by letting Christ be my light and living my life as a living testimony to the Risen Christ! Lead by example. One can preach with words, but if someone is not ready to hear what is being said, then the words will not be heard.
At least for me, there is nothing more inspiring then seeing someone live a life for Christ and seeing the fruits of their labors.
That is not to say that life is easy, but it certainly is rewarding. Have faith and take a step towards God! Faith is taking the first step even when we cannot see the entire staircase!
"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).
"If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you" (Matthew 17:20).
How wonderful it is to live for God and let the light of Christ shine from the inside out! I long for others to experience this joy that burns within me and share in the peace and hope that comes alone with it!
How do we reach out to non-believers, or even believers that have not yet experienced this? I want to profess from mountain tops that God is the Lord of my life and then proceed to tell everything that has been going on in my life! But is that going to persuade others to turn to God? Probably not nearly as effectively as desired.
One of the easiest ways for me to reach out to non-believers and share the light of Christ with them, is by letting Christ be my light and living my life as a living testimony to the Risen Christ! Lead by example. One can preach with words, but if someone is not ready to hear what is being said, then the words will not be heard.
At least for me, there is nothing more inspiring then seeing someone live a life for Christ and seeing the fruits of their labors.
That is not to say that life is easy, but it certainly is rewarding. Have faith and take a step towards God! Faith is taking the first step even when we cannot see the entire staircase!
"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).
"If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you" (Matthew 17:20).
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
What are you thankful for?
So, with this being November and Thanksgiving coming up here rather quickly, what are some things that you are thankful for?
1) I am thankful for having God ever so present in my life. I love it that I can turn to Him in all things and He is always there ready to help!
2) I am thankful for the opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family.
3) I am thankful for awesome friends whom I can talk to them about anything!
4) I am thankful for relationships so centered around Christ, that when trials arise, we know who to turn our focus back on to and where to draw our strength.
5) I am thankful for awesome Christian music that is always a comfort just when I need it.
6) I am thankful for a job that allows me to do my homework at work.
7) I am thankful for my dad for giving me a place to freely explore and discover on my own without fear of judgment.
8) I am thankful for children of all ages. Being able to spend time with them and love them for who they are is priceless!
9) I am thankful for my crockpot. So many yummy fall meals have been prepared in it thus far!
10) I am thankful for random phone calls that are intended to be a quick "hi" but turn into talking for hours on end.
11) I am thankful that I rely on God, and not on technology and the such -- for if that were the case, this would be one very unpleasant person.
12) I am thankful for living in Michigan!
13) I am thankful for Church!
14) I am thankful for the ability to work extremely well under immense pressure (yes, I s h o u l d be working on my paper that is due in 24 hours instead of blogging... lol)
15) I am thankful for clean, cool drinking water.
16) I am thankful for warm running water.
17) I am thankful for those people who come in my life for the sole purpose of teaching me a lesson, and then it is time to move on (but sad in a way too, but happy knowing that God used them in an incredible way in my life!).
18) I am happy that I get a semi-steady paycheck and can at least pay my bills on time.
19) I am thankful for my Bible and for all that God has revealed to me through it!
20) I am thankful for my car, for as reliable as it it. And for a garage that I can park in at night (so I don't have to scrape the windows at 7:10 in the morning when I am already running 10 minutes behind schedule)!
21) I am thankful that I am thankful for so many things!
22) I am thankful for my piano.
23) I am thankful for the opportunity to go to college.
24) I am thankful that I can blog and journal.
25) I am thankful that I am accepted for whom I am.
26) I am thankful that God loves me unconditionally.
27) I am thankful for where I am in life -- every aspect, despite some areas being more trying then others.
28) I am thankful that I am improving in my art class (and that my prof told me that she likes how "expressive" my value is in my drawing!!!)
29) I am thankful for beautiful fall colors, light breezes, and sunshine.
30) I am thankful for summer rainstorms and rainbows that follow!!
31) I am thankful for scarves!
32) I am thankful for mac and cheese.
33) I am thankful for my phone and other technical devices that I do use regularly (but can live without).
34). I am thankful for my dining room table.
35) I am thankful for self-sticking stamps.
36) I am thankful for heating pads that I can take to bed with me at night.
37) I am thankful for men who treat me as their sister in Christ, and whom I treat as a brother in Christ.
38) I am thankful for hope. I am thankful that I can have that hope in Christ to bless me indeed!
39) I am thankful for the stars! And the comfort that they bring when I look at them!
40) I am thankful for my background, for it has made me whom I am today!
41) I am thankful for the adventures that lie ahead on my journey through life.
42) I am thankful for Jesus, who died on the cross to save me.
43) I am thankful for life. (Any day above ground is a good day!)
44) I am thankful for everything else that I have not said yet.
45) I am thankful for Y O U who is currently reading this. God bless you richly!
46) I am thankful for open-minded people.
47) I am thankful for everyone in the medical field.
48) I am thankful for all my brothers and sisters in Christ.
49) I am thankful for those brief moments that I can spend with my Lord, my God in silence.
50) I am thankful that God knows the desires of my heart and will bless me with them if, and only if, He knows they will bring me closer to Him!
51) I am thankful to be thankful for the life that God has blessed me with! What a wonderful life I have!
1) I am thankful for having God ever so present in my life. I love it that I can turn to Him in all things and He is always there ready to help!
2) I am thankful for the opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family.
3) I am thankful for awesome friends whom I can talk to them about anything!
4) I am thankful for relationships so centered around Christ, that when trials arise, we know who to turn our focus back on to and where to draw our strength.
5) I am thankful for awesome Christian music that is always a comfort just when I need it.
6) I am thankful for a job that allows me to do my homework at work.
7) I am thankful for my dad for giving me a place to freely explore and discover on my own without fear of judgment.
8) I am thankful for children of all ages. Being able to spend time with them and love them for who they are is priceless!
9) I am thankful for my crockpot. So many yummy fall meals have been prepared in it thus far!
10) I am thankful for random phone calls that are intended to be a quick "hi" but turn into talking for hours on end.
11) I am thankful that I rely on God, and not on technology and the such -- for if that were the case, this would be one very unpleasant person.
12) I am thankful for living in Michigan!
13) I am thankful for Church!
14) I am thankful for the ability to work extremely well under immense pressure (yes, I s h o u l d be working on my paper that is due in 24 hours instead of blogging... lol)
15) I am thankful for clean, cool drinking water.
16) I am thankful for warm running water.
17) I am thankful for those people who come in my life for the sole purpose of teaching me a lesson, and then it is time to move on (but sad in a way too, but happy knowing that God used them in an incredible way in my life!).
18) I am happy that I get a semi-steady paycheck and can at least pay my bills on time.
19) I am thankful for my Bible and for all that God has revealed to me through it!
20) I am thankful for my car, for as reliable as it it. And for a garage that I can park in at night (so I don't have to scrape the windows at 7:10 in the morning when I am already running 10 minutes behind schedule)!
21) I am thankful that I am thankful for so many things!
22) I am thankful for my piano.
23) I am thankful for the opportunity to go to college.
24) I am thankful that I can blog and journal.
25) I am thankful that I am accepted for whom I am.
26) I am thankful that God loves me unconditionally.
27) I am thankful for where I am in life -- every aspect, despite some areas being more trying then others.
28) I am thankful that I am improving in my art class (and that my prof told me that she likes how "expressive" my value is in my drawing!!!)
29) I am thankful for beautiful fall colors, light breezes, and sunshine.
30) I am thankful for summer rainstorms and rainbows that follow!!
31) I am thankful for scarves!
32) I am thankful for mac and cheese.
33) I am thankful for my phone and other technical devices that I do use regularly (but can live without).
34). I am thankful for my dining room table.
35) I am thankful for self-sticking stamps.
36) I am thankful for heating pads that I can take to bed with me at night.
37) I am thankful for men who treat me as their sister in Christ, and whom I treat as a brother in Christ.
38) I am thankful for hope. I am thankful that I can have that hope in Christ to bless me indeed!
39) I am thankful for the stars! And the comfort that they bring when I look at them!
40) I am thankful for my background, for it has made me whom I am today!
41) I am thankful for the adventures that lie ahead on my journey through life.
42) I am thankful for Jesus, who died on the cross to save me.
43) I am thankful for life. (Any day above ground is a good day!)
44) I am thankful for everything else that I have not said yet.
45) I am thankful for Y O U who is currently reading this. God bless you richly!
46) I am thankful for open-minded people.
47) I am thankful for everyone in the medical field.
48) I am thankful for all my brothers and sisters in Christ.
49) I am thankful for those brief moments that I can spend with my Lord, my God in silence.
50) I am thankful that God knows the desires of my heart and will bless me with them if, and only if, He knows they will bring me closer to Him!
51) I am thankful to be thankful for the life that God has blessed me with! What a wonderful life I have!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
A Single Person's Identity by John Fisher
This was given to me about 4 months back. None of the words that follow are mine, but it is way too good of an article to just let it sit on my bookcase and not share it.
"A Single Person's Identity" by John Fisher
August 5, 1973
"I would to talk this evening about living as a single adult in the church, i.e., the body of Christ, the family of God. I'll speak from the Word and from my experience. And even though the subject will probably touch only a limited segment of the church, the principles should apply to us all.
"In the last few years, I have noticed a problem in my own personal life as a single person. The problem is that I live with a pressure toward marriage, because marriage in suppose to be the only way a person can be mature. We have had a lot of fantastic teaching here at PBC, and a great deal of Christian literature is available, about the fact that marriage is an example of the Lord's love for the Church, and about what marriage does for two people in causing them to be mature in Christ. Though taking their masks off and coming to know one another they can learn many deep lessons.
"But I have also noticed that it is possible to make such a statement on this subject that an imbalance in produced. I have even hear people make statements such as, 'It's impossible to be a mature Christian without being married.' This kind of thinking produces some problems for those of us who are single. I have notices that the suggestion creeps into the back of my mind that I am incomplete, in a 'holding pattern' fling around trying to find the airport so that I can get my feet on the ground to start living. This kind of thinking keeps me from living now to be what God has called me to be. It can be very subtle. It comes up even in the way I live around the house and the way I keep things in my room. I keep thinking, 'When...'-- 'When I have a place of my own...' or 'When I have someone with me... then I'll do this or that.'
"On top of that, there are those dear, loving, well-meaning married couples who think that everyone ought to be like they are, and who seek to push us together. You know, 'Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match...!' That's not much help, either! So there is a tension which has been produced in this situation, and I think there are probably many people who feel it.
"What I would like to do it turn to the Scriptures and very quickly go through some passages in which both Jesus and Paul say something about being single. We'll turn first to Matthew 19, beginning in verse 3. Jesus is being tested by the Pharisees. As often, they are trying to trap Him:
And some Pharisees came to Him, testing Him, and saying "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause at all?" And He answered and said, "Have you not read, that He who created them from the beginning and made them male and female, and said, 'For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.' Consequently, they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate. They (the Pharisees) said to Him, "Why then did Moses command to give her a certificate and divorce her?" )In other words, "Why did Moses allow divorce, then, if this is true?") He (Jesus) said to them, "Because of your hardness of heart, Moses permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it has not been this way."
"The Law had to be altered because of the depravity of man and the brokenness of his relationships. But God's intention was never for marriage to be that way at all. The two become one, and you cannot separate two who have become one. This is a teaching on marriage and divorce, but Jesus' disciples force Him into another subject, verse 9:
"And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for immorality, and marries another, commits adultery."
"The disciples respond to this heavy statement:
The disciples said to Him in reply, "If the relationship of the man with his wife is like this, it is better not to marry!"
"They were beginning to realize the seriousness Jesus placed on the marriage relationship. And they said 'Wow! If that's the way it is, it's better not even to fool around with it, not even get married.' Notice Jesus' very interesting reply--he does not disagree. He says:
"Not all men can accept this satement, but only those whom it has been given."
Singleness is a Gift
"What He is saying here is that to some people, singleness is a gift. Have you ever thought of viewing your singleness as a gift from God? That is the way Jesus views it. I am not suggesting that your singleless in necessarily permanent, but I am talking about where you are right now. You can view your singleness, at this point, as a gift from God. You might want to move on. There is a littler more about that in the next verse, but I don't have time for it. It is a good passage for you to study at home. But I did want you to see that Jesus called singleness of a gift.
A Single Person's Identity
"Now, let us turn to I Corinthians 7. This is na interesting chapter in this connection. In verse 7, Paul says:
Yet, I wish that all men were even as I myself am. However, each man has his own gift from God, one in this manner, and another in that. But I say t the unmarried and to the widows that it is good for them that they remain (single) even as I.
"Paul uses that same word 'gift.' He calls singleness a gift. The state in which you are living now, if you are single, is a gift from the Lord. I asked myself, 'Why is this a gift?' I read further in the chapter and Paul answered the question for me in verses 32-35:
But I want you to be free from concern. On who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord: but the one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how me my please his wife, and his interests are divided. And the woman who is unmarried, and the virgin, is concerned about the things of the Lord, that he may be holy in body and spirit; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how she may please her husband. And this I say, for your benefit, not to put a restraint upon you but to promote what is seemly, and to secure undistracted devotion to the Lord.
"Paul is speaking very positively here. He elevated the state of singleness to the point where a person can give his undivided devotion to the Lord, can be totally set aside to please him, with no conflicts of interest. Because let's face it, marriage entails responsibility, higher responsibilities, more dealing with the world, and more financial complications. Please don't misunderstand me; he is not speaking against marriage here at all. He is speaking positively, and is encouraging the single people to realize the blessings and advantages of his singleness.
Don't Say, Tomorrow we will do Such and Such
"This truth has begun to set me free to realize that God has called me to live now. He hasn't called me to life four years from now. I don't know what is going to be happening four years from now. I have no idea. He wants me to realize my full potential as a man right now, to be thankful about where I am, and to enjoy it to the fullest. I have a strange feeling that the single person who is always wishing he were married will probably get married, discover all that is involved, and wish her were single again! He will ask himself, 'Why didn't I used that time for the Lord when I didn't have do many other obligations? Why didn't I give myself totally to Him when I was single?' So I encourage those of you who are single to praise God about your state, to devote yourself fully to Him, and to realize the full potential which God has called you to live right now.
"It has been a great encouragement to me to discover that there are Christian man who have not married and yet who are very mature leaders in the community. One man who is very dear to me is Lyle Hillegas, President of Westmount College. Lyle is a single man, and God has called him to that, at least for now. And Lyle is a responsible, gifted man of God. That fact has helped satisfy my own desire to find 'models' whom I can emulate in patterning my own Christian life. Sometimes all the models we see are married people, and we say 'Where do I fit in?' But God has models for single people. You can find them everywhere. And they are serving the Lord. The reason they are good examples is that they have begun to learn to truly give themselves to the Lord, and to enjoy where they are. Paul says, 'I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.'
"I have been talking up to this point about how a single person should view himself in the body of Christ. I am going to turn a corner now, and talk about relationships between single adults in the body of Christ. As I grew up in the church, I occasionally heard young men speaking about bachelorhood only half-joking in terms like 'Celibates for Christ' and 'Bachelors till the Rapture!' You might have assumed from what I have said so far that I am suggesting that asserting yourself as a single person as realizing God's full potential for your life somehow means avoiding people of the opposite sex or setting yourself aside.
"Art Hoppe, a humorous columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle, wrote an article proposing 'Celibate Liberation' in an effort to counteract all the other 'liberation' movements--Woman's Lib and Gay Lib. He called this movement 'Mono Lib.' His classic example is the guy who walks alone out of the bar, puts on his hat, and asks himself 'My place or mine?'
"That is not all what I have in mind! As a matter of fact, what the Lord is beginning to show me, in my new found freedom, is that he wants to drive me into relationships, to put me in them, and through them to teach me and enable me to grow. He wants me to minister as a brother in Christ and to get to know my sisters.
The Pursuit of Love
"I think that a great deal of our tension, not only in our own self-image as single people, but also in our relationships with members of the opposite sex, has arisen because deep down inside, what we are pursuing is the state of marriage. We have gotten this goal into our heads, and we are working toward it. And because the married state is so exaulted and is suppose to be where maturity lies, we start thinking, 'Gee, when is this going to happen to me? Where is my marriage partner?'
"We have gone to classes and have heard teaching on the subject, so we devise our blueprint for the perfect marriage partner. Then, we go running around with our list of the characteristics (speaking from a brother's point of view, now) that we want in a girl and fit everybody up to it. We start to get to know a sister, and ... check, check, check! We have spiritual items that we look for, and the flesh usually throws in a few too ... be realistic.
"You know what happens then. We get down to item seven or eight on the list and she doesn't measure up. She we say, 'Good-bye. She's not the one, let's try another one.' Because we are pursuing this idealized conception of marriage, we have preconceived ideas of what that is all about. This causes all kinds of frustrated reflection and comparisons.
"What I really wont to share with you tonight, the idea which is closest to my heart, is what I have discovered that what God wants us to pursue is not marriage, but love, and that marriage is not an end in itself; it is a means to an end. The end is love. Marriage is the servant of love. If we are pursuing marriage, we are pursuing the wrong thing. Love starts to become subservient to marriage. We start making up our own ideas of what love is, and we don't allow the Lord to show is and teach us what love actually is through the relationship He gives us. 'Pursue love, not marriage,' This is such a simple principle, but it has set me free in the past few months in my relationship with my Christian sisters.
A Single Person's Identity
"Pursuing love immediately does all sorts of wonderful things! It alleviates all the questioning. 'Id this the one because that is not so important at this point. We are learning how to minister, how to build up one another, how to be friends. We have had such great teaching on this subject in recent weeks. Dave Roper's message last week on the friendship of Jonathan and David is beautiful. And I was so excited this morning to hear Dave speaking on David and Abigail because it was so perfectly in tune with what I wanted to say tonight about how the sisters can turn and minister to the bothers. You see, when we are free to pursue loving one another in the Lord, we are free from all the tensions, pressures, and hassles of trying to find a mate.
Principles for Relationships
"I need to tell you what I mean by 'pursuing love.' The standard of love must always be that expressed in I Corinthians 13. As far as I am concerned, no other definition of love is worth spending much time on. In verses 4 through 7 there is a checklist of eight characteristics of true love. Check and see if you truly understand what love it. This passage stands in tremendous contrast to the 'love' of the world, the common, ordinary usage of that word, the 'love' we hear of today in songs and movies. Listen to the words here: 'Love is patient. Love is kind. It is not jealous. Love does not brag. It is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly, does not seek its own (it is not possessive). It is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.' That is the love we're talking about. It is a giving love. It is a fruit of the Spirit of God. It is impossible to have apart from Jesus Christ alive in your life. It is the life of God living out through you to enfold other people.
Acceptance
"I would like to talk now about two very practical areas concerning the pursuit of love in relationships between mature single adults. These are two principles which come out of my own experience and are certainly backed up by the Word. The first is ACCEPTANCE. That is, instead of coming to a person with my preconceived ideas of what I hope this person already is, I come as a viewer, a receiver. This person is to be accepted by me because she (or he) is accepted by the Lord. The Lord loves this person, and died for this person, and I am to accept the fact I am to stand back and allow myself to be ministered to, to be blessed and encouraged by this person, to accept her (or him) the way she (or he) is and then just sit back and discover what is there.
"This is a fantastic, exciting way to relate to people! If we view the people we meet in life as a discovery, then we don't put bonds on them, we don't force them to conform to our preconceptions. We can accept them and learn from them, and grow from what they give to us. God accepted us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). He didn't place any behavioral criteria on us. He accepted us in our filth. Now, are we going to place more restrictive standards upon anyone else? The Lord says, 'As I accept you, so you accept your brothers.'
"In this pursuit of love, acceptance is what helps us to be able to take our masks off. This is the quiet, slow process of revealing myself to another person. It may be difficult, ever painful, very painful. But it is rich and deep and fulfilling. Have you ever had that experience of revealing yourself to another person and have that person start to open himself to you in a free relationship of acceptance? You don't have to wait until marriage to experience that, you can start now. We should be relating to all Christians in a way--brothers with brothers, brothers with sisters, sisters with sisters--in a discovery relationship of being unveiled before one another. We really need to help each other take our masks off, and acceptance is the key to that.
Commitment
"The other principle is COMMITMENT. This is a quality which I really sense is very much missed in our brother/sister relationships. What has happened is that a lot of us have come to use the brother/sister relationship basically on a cop-out from responsibility. The way I see it, it is actually a taking on of responsibility for a brother to get to know a sister or a sister to get to know a brother. I am speaking primarily to the brothers now, because I've talked to a lot of them about this, and I've talked to some sisters, too, who have been deeply hurt--too many who have been deeply hurt. In fact, one of my motivations for being here tonight is that I have talked to so many sisters who have been in relationships which have started to open, in which they have started to reveal themselves, and the brother has started to reveal himself, they have started to spend some time ... and then the weirdness has set in.
"By 'weirdness' I mean the pressure which results from the prospect of marriage--raising disquieting inner questions like, 'Is this the one? Is this THAT relationship?' -- yet without our communicating our feelings and questions to the other people. This 'weirdness' starts to creep in, both people get uptight, and the guy splits! The sister has opened and bared her heart, but the brother has turned and left her. This has happened many times because of 'Well, this is just a good brother/sister relationship, right?' We use that, sometimes, as a cop-out from the responsibility involved in truly getting to know another.
"I have begun to see that there is really no back door in any relationship. Once you start a relationship, in the kingdom of God, even if it starts to get difficult, you have a responsibility to work that difficulty out with each other--you pray, you talk, you seek the Lord's mind as to what is happening. You are not to run in fear, because in God's book, there is no back door to relationships. You are to close the door behind you and to move forward. The definitions of the relationship may change. But the Lord is striving for us all to become one in Him and any move counter to that oneness is a move against the Lord's Will. He desires oneness.
"Perhaps I can share just one personal experience which will help to show you what I mean. In recent months, I have gotten to know a sister whom I met in South Africa. We met again in Redlands, California which I was teaching there last winter, and we got to know each other in a very free relationship. I realized that she had been 'burned' in relationships before, and she was very cautious about showing anything of her deep inner feelings and desires. But I noticed that as we got to know each other she began to trust me more, and she began to reveal more of her life to me. It was mutual, and we began to reveal more of her life to me. It was mutual, and we began to encourage one another and to open up toward each other.
"And then the weirdness came! This was before I learned these things. As a matter of fact, this relationship was one of the factors which helped teach me. The weirdness come, we had a good talk, and we took a step back. We said, hey, we are really not sure where we're going. Neither of us is thinking about marriage right now, so let's not keep heading there, 'brother/sister,' right? Right!
A Single Person's Identity
"As I drive home that night, the Lord showed me something. My responsibility to that sister was more then ever to remain committed. If there ever was a time I was responsible to stay with her and be communicative, it was then. The next time we got together, she said, 'You know, I thought I was never going to see you again.' If I had left, it would have been one more time, and it would have been that much more difficult for her to open up her life the next time to someone else. We both discovered together that something good happened at this point. We weren't worrying about marriage--we had erased that. We simply began to minister to one another and to pursue the meeting of each other's needs as a man and a woman. Now, it is a fantastic relationship, and it is still going on! Is this striking a cord?
Pursuing Love
"I so appreciate Dave's word this morning, and I'd like to close by reinforcing his major point. What Dave showed us so beautifully from the life of Abigail was that she ministered to David's life as a sister in the Lord, calling him to the truth in love. Please realize that these principles are not only for single people, but for all brothers and sister in the entire body of Christ. One of my greatest experiences this past year has been getting to know Ann-Marie Ritchie. I have spent the last two years with Ron Ritchie for discipleship and teaching. But in the past year I've discoered his other half for what she is-- not Ron Ritchie's wife, but the person Ann-Marie. She has blessed me to no end! She has ministered to me, encouraged me, built me up as a man. We are talking about righteous relationships, and being free to have them. And God wants us to have them.
"The last thing I want to say is, if God leads you, begin to commit yourself to a special person. Step out in faith, jump in, and do it! It involves a risk, tremendous risk. It is a lot easier to keep everyone a certain distance, and if the relationship starts to get weird, to split. What I encourage you to do is to pursue love, in spite of your fear, and watch God set you free! If anyone should be having relationships which are open and beautiful and righteous between men and women, it is Christians. That is what the Lord has put us here to do."
"A Single Person's Identity" by John Fisher
August 5, 1973
"I would to talk this evening about living as a single adult in the church, i.e., the body of Christ, the family of God. I'll speak from the Word and from my experience. And even though the subject will probably touch only a limited segment of the church, the principles should apply to us all.
"In the last few years, I have noticed a problem in my own personal life as a single person. The problem is that I live with a pressure toward marriage, because marriage in suppose to be the only way a person can be mature. We have had a lot of fantastic teaching here at PBC, and a great deal of Christian literature is available, about the fact that marriage is an example of the Lord's love for the Church, and about what marriage does for two people in causing them to be mature in Christ. Though taking their masks off and coming to know one another they can learn many deep lessons.
"But I have also noticed that it is possible to make such a statement on this subject that an imbalance in produced. I have even hear people make statements such as, 'It's impossible to be a mature Christian without being married.' This kind of thinking produces some problems for those of us who are single. I have notices that the suggestion creeps into the back of my mind that I am incomplete, in a 'holding pattern' fling around trying to find the airport so that I can get my feet on the ground to start living. This kind of thinking keeps me from living now to be what God has called me to be. It can be very subtle. It comes up even in the way I live around the house and the way I keep things in my room. I keep thinking, 'When...'-- 'When I have a place of my own...' or 'When I have someone with me... then I'll do this or that.'
"On top of that, there are those dear, loving, well-meaning married couples who think that everyone ought to be like they are, and who seek to push us together. You know, 'Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match...!' That's not much help, either! So there is a tension which has been produced in this situation, and I think there are probably many people who feel it.
"What I would like to do it turn to the Scriptures and very quickly go through some passages in which both Jesus and Paul say something about being single. We'll turn first to Matthew 19, beginning in verse 3. Jesus is being tested by the Pharisees. As often, they are trying to trap Him:
And some Pharisees came to Him, testing Him, and saying "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause at all?" And He answered and said, "Have you not read, that He who created them from the beginning and made them male and female, and said, 'For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.' Consequently, they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate. They (the Pharisees) said to Him, "Why then did Moses command to give her a certificate and divorce her?" )In other words, "Why did Moses allow divorce, then, if this is true?") He (Jesus) said to them, "Because of your hardness of heart, Moses permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it has not been this way."
"The Law had to be altered because of the depravity of man and the brokenness of his relationships. But God's intention was never for marriage to be that way at all. The two become one, and you cannot separate two who have become one. This is a teaching on marriage and divorce, but Jesus' disciples force Him into another subject, verse 9:
"And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for immorality, and marries another, commits adultery."
"The disciples respond to this heavy statement:
The disciples said to Him in reply, "If the relationship of the man with his wife is like this, it is better not to marry!"
"They were beginning to realize the seriousness Jesus placed on the marriage relationship. And they said 'Wow! If that's the way it is, it's better not even to fool around with it, not even get married.' Notice Jesus' very interesting reply--he does not disagree. He says:
"Not all men can accept this satement, but only those whom it has been given."
Singleness is a Gift
"What He is saying here is that to some people, singleness is a gift. Have you ever thought of viewing your singleness as a gift from God? That is the way Jesus views it. I am not suggesting that your singleless in necessarily permanent, but I am talking about where you are right now. You can view your singleness, at this point, as a gift from God. You might want to move on. There is a littler more about that in the next verse, but I don't have time for it. It is a good passage for you to study at home. But I did want you to see that Jesus called singleness of a gift.
A Single Person's Identity
"Now, let us turn to I Corinthians 7. This is na interesting chapter in this connection. In verse 7, Paul says:
Yet, I wish that all men were even as I myself am. However, each man has his own gift from God, one in this manner, and another in that. But I say t the unmarried and to the widows that it is good for them that they remain (single) even as I.
"Paul uses that same word 'gift.' He calls singleness a gift. The state in which you are living now, if you are single, is a gift from the Lord. I asked myself, 'Why is this a gift?' I read further in the chapter and Paul answered the question for me in verses 32-35:
But I want you to be free from concern. On who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord: but the one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how me my please his wife, and his interests are divided. And the woman who is unmarried, and the virgin, is concerned about the things of the Lord, that he may be holy in body and spirit; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how she may please her husband. And this I say, for your benefit, not to put a restraint upon you but to promote what is seemly, and to secure undistracted devotion to the Lord.
"Paul is speaking very positively here. He elevated the state of singleness to the point where a person can give his undivided devotion to the Lord, can be totally set aside to please him, with no conflicts of interest. Because let's face it, marriage entails responsibility, higher responsibilities, more dealing with the world, and more financial complications. Please don't misunderstand me; he is not speaking against marriage here at all. He is speaking positively, and is encouraging the single people to realize the blessings and advantages of his singleness.
Don't Say, Tomorrow we will do Such and Such
"This truth has begun to set me free to realize that God has called me to live now. He hasn't called me to life four years from now. I don't know what is going to be happening four years from now. I have no idea. He wants me to realize my full potential as a man right now, to be thankful about where I am, and to enjoy it to the fullest. I have a strange feeling that the single person who is always wishing he were married will probably get married, discover all that is involved, and wish her were single again! He will ask himself, 'Why didn't I used that time for the Lord when I didn't have do many other obligations? Why didn't I give myself totally to Him when I was single?' So I encourage those of you who are single to praise God about your state, to devote yourself fully to Him, and to realize the full potential which God has called you to live right now.
"It has been a great encouragement to me to discover that there are Christian man who have not married and yet who are very mature leaders in the community. One man who is very dear to me is Lyle Hillegas, President of Westmount College. Lyle is a single man, and God has called him to that, at least for now. And Lyle is a responsible, gifted man of God. That fact has helped satisfy my own desire to find 'models' whom I can emulate in patterning my own Christian life. Sometimes all the models we see are married people, and we say 'Where do I fit in?' But God has models for single people. You can find them everywhere. And they are serving the Lord. The reason they are good examples is that they have begun to learn to truly give themselves to the Lord, and to enjoy where they are. Paul says, 'I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.'
"I have been talking up to this point about how a single person should view himself in the body of Christ. I am going to turn a corner now, and talk about relationships between single adults in the body of Christ. As I grew up in the church, I occasionally heard young men speaking about bachelorhood only half-joking in terms like 'Celibates for Christ' and 'Bachelors till the Rapture!' You might have assumed from what I have said so far that I am suggesting that asserting yourself as a single person as realizing God's full potential for your life somehow means avoiding people of the opposite sex or setting yourself aside.
"Art Hoppe, a humorous columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle, wrote an article proposing 'Celibate Liberation' in an effort to counteract all the other 'liberation' movements--Woman's Lib and Gay Lib. He called this movement 'Mono Lib.' His classic example is the guy who walks alone out of the bar, puts on his hat, and asks himself 'My place or mine?'
"That is not all what I have in mind! As a matter of fact, what the Lord is beginning to show me, in my new found freedom, is that he wants to drive me into relationships, to put me in them, and through them to teach me and enable me to grow. He wants me to minister as a brother in Christ and to get to know my sisters.
The Pursuit of Love
"I think that a great deal of our tension, not only in our own self-image as single people, but also in our relationships with members of the opposite sex, has arisen because deep down inside, what we are pursuing is the state of marriage. We have gotten this goal into our heads, and we are working toward it. And because the married state is so exaulted and is suppose to be where maturity lies, we start thinking, 'Gee, when is this going to happen to me? Where is my marriage partner?'
"We have gone to classes and have heard teaching on the subject, so we devise our blueprint for the perfect marriage partner. Then, we go running around with our list of the characteristics (speaking from a brother's point of view, now) that we want in a girl and fit everybody up to it. We start to get to know a sister, and ... check, check, check! We have spiritual items that we look for, and the flesh usually throws in a few too ... be realistic.
"You know what happens then. We get down to item seven or eight on the list and she doesn't measure up. She we say, 'Good-bye. She's not the one, let's try another one.' Because we are pursuing this idealized conception of marriage, we have preconceived ideas of what that is all about. This causes all kinds of frustrated reflection and comparisons.
"What I really wont to share with you tonight, the idea which is closest to my heart, is what I have discovered that what God wants us to pursue is not marriage, but love, and that marriage is not an end in itself; it is a means to an end. The end is love. Marriage is the servant of love. If we are pursuing marriage, we are pursuing the wrong thing. Love starts to become subservient to marriage. We start making up our own ideas of what love is, and we don't allow the Lord to show is and teach us what love actually is through the relationship He gives us. 'Pursue love, not marriage,' This is such a simple principle, but it has set me free in the past few months in my relationship with my Christian sisters.
A Single Person's Identity
"Pursuing love immediately does all sorts of wonderful things! It alleviates all the questioning. 'Id this the one because that is not so important at this point. We are learning how to minister, how to build up one another, how to be friends. We have had such great teaching on this subject in recent weeks. Dave Roper's message last week on the friendship of Jonathan and David is beautiful. And I was so excited this morning to hear Dave speaking on David and Abigail because it was so perfectly in tune with what I wanted to say tonight about how the sisters can turn and minister to the bothers. You see, when we are free to pursue loving one another in the Lord, we are free from all the tensions, pressures, and hassles of trying to find a mate.
Principles for Relationships
"I need to tell you what I mean by 'pursuing love.' The standard of love must always be that expressed in I Corinthians 13. As far as I am concerned, no other definition of love is worth spending much time on. In verses 4 through 7 there is a checklist of eight characteristics of true love. Check and see if you truly understand what love it. This passage stands in tremendous contrast to the 'love' of the world, the common, ordinary usage of that word, the 'love' we hear of today in songs and movies. Listen to the words here: 'Love is patient. Love is kind. It is not jealous. Love does not brag. It is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly, does not seek its own (it is not possessive). It is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.' That is the love we're talking about. It is a giving love. It is a fruit of the Spirit of God. It is impossible to have apart from Jesus Christ alive in your life. It is the life of God living out through you to enfold other people.
Acceptance
"I would like to talk now about two very practical areas concerning the pursuit of love in relationships between mature single adults. These are two principles which come out of my own experience and are certainly backed up by the Word. The first is ACCEPTANCE. That is, instead of coming to a person with my preconceived ideas of what I hope this person already is, I come as a viewer, a receiver. This person is to be accepted by me because she (or he) is accepted by the Lord. The Lord loves this person, and died for this person, and I am to accept the fact I am to stand back and allow myself to be ministered to, to be blessed and encouraged by this person, to accept her (or him) the way she (or he) is and then just sit back and discover what is there.
"This is a fantastic, exciting way to relate to people! If we view the people we meet in life as a discovery, then we don't put bonds on them, we don't force them to conform to our preconceptions. We can accept them and learn from them, and grow from what they give to us. God accepted us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). He didn't place any behavioral criteria on us. He accepted us in our filth. Now, are we going to place more restrictive standards upon anyone else? The Lord says, 'As I accept you, so you accept your brothers.'
"In this pursuit of love, acceptance is what helps us to be able to take our masks off. This is the quiet, slow process of revealing myself to another person. It may be difficult, ever painful, very painful. But it is rich and deep and fulfilling. Have you ever had that experience of revealing yourself to another person and have that person start to open himself to you in a free relationship of acceptance? You don't have to wait until marriage to experience that, you can start now. We should be relating to all Christians in a way--brothers with brothers, brothers with sisters, sisters with sisters--in a discovery relationship of being unveiled before one another. We really need to help each other take our masks off, and acceptance is the key to that.
Commitment
"The other principle is COMMITMENT. This is a quality which I really sense is very much missed in our brother/sister relationships. What has happened is that a lot of us have come to use the brother/sister relationship basically on a cop-out from responsibility. The way I see it, it is actually a taking on of responsibility for a brother to get to know a sister or a sister to get to know a brother. I am speaking primarily to the brothers now, because I've talked to a lot of them about this, and I've talked to some sisters, too, who have been deeply hurt--too many who have been deeply hurt. In fact, one of my motivations for being here tonight is that I have talked to so many sisters who have been in relationships which have started to open, in which they have started to reveal themselves, and the brother has started to reveal himself, they have started to spend some time ... and then the weirdness has set in.
"By 'weirdness' I mean the pressure which results from the prospect of marriage--raising disquieting inner questions like, 'Is this the one? Is this THAT relationship?' -- yet without our communicating our feelings and questions to the other people. This 'weirdness' starts to creep in, both people get uptight, and the guy splits! The sister has opened and bared her heart, but the brother has turned and left her. This has happened many times because of 'Well, this is just a good brother/sister relationship, right?' We use that, sometimes, as a cop-out from the responsibility involved in truly getting to know another.
"I have begun to see that there is really no back door in any relationship. Once you start a relationship, in the kingdom of God, even if it starts to get difficult, you have a responsibility to work that difficulty out with each other--you pray, you talk, you seek the Lord's mind as to what is happening. You are not to run in fear, because in God's book, there is no back door to relationships. You are to close the door behind you and to move forward. The definitions of the relationship may change. But the Lord is striving for us all to become one in Him and any move counter to that oneness is a move against the Lord's Will. He desires oneness.
"Perhaps I can share just one personal experience which will help to show you what I mean. In recent months, I have gotten to know a sister whom I met in South Africa. We met again in Redlands, California which I was teaching there last winter, and we got to know each other in a very free relationship. I realized that she had been 'burned' in relationships before, and she was very cautious about showing anything of her deep inner feelings and desires. But I noticed that as we got to know each other she began to trust me more, and she began to reveal more of her life to me. It was mutual, and we began to reveal more of her life to me. It was mutual, and we began to encourage one another and to open up toward each other.
"And then the weirdness came! This was before I learned these things. As a matter of fact, this relationship was one of the factors which helped teach me. The weirdness come, we had a good talk, and we took a step back. We said, hey, we are really not sure where we're going. Neither of us is thinking about marriage right now, so let's not keep heading there, 'brother/sister,' right? Right!
A Single Person's Identity
"As I drive home that night, the Lord showed me something. My responsibility to that sister was more then ever to remain committed. If there ever was a time I was responsible to stay with her and be communicative, it was then. The next time we got together, she said, 'You know, I thought I was never going to see you again.' If I had left, it would have been one more time, and it would have been that much more difficult for her to open up her life the next time to someone else. We both discovered together that something good happened at this point. We weren't worrying about marriage--we had erased that. We simply began to minister to one another and to pursue the meeting of each other's needs as a man and a woman. Now, it is a fantastic relationship, and it is still going on! Is this striking a cord?
Pursuing Love
"I so appreciate Dave's word this morning, and I'd like to close by reinforcing his major point. What Dave showed us so beautifully from the life of Abigail was that she ministered to David's life as a sister in the Lord, calling him to the truth in love. Please realize that these principles are not only for single people, but for all brothers and sister in the entire body of Christ. One of my greatest experiences this past year has been getting to know Ann-Marie Ritchie. I have spent the last two years with Ron Ritchie for discipleship and teaching. But in the past year I've discoered his other half for what she is-- not Ron Ritchie's wife, but the person Ann-Marie. She has blessed me to no end! She has ministered to me, encouraged me, built me up as a man. We are talking about righteous relationships, and being free to have them. And God wants us to have them.
"The last thing I want to say is, if God leads you, begin to commit yourself to a special person. Step out in faith, jump in, and do it! It involves a risk, tremendous risk. It is a lot easier to keep everyone a certain distance, and if the relationship starts to get weird, to split. What I encourage you to do is to pursue love, in spite of your fear, and watch God set you free! If anyone should be having relationships which are open and beautiful and righteous between men and women, it is Christians. That is what the Lord has put us here to do."
Monday, October 31, 2011
Jesus: A division between believers
"Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Thy love.
V. Send forth Thy Spirit and they shall be created.
R. And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray. O God, Who didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise, and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."
One would not think that Jesus would be a cause for division amongst people, yet it happens. There could be a place filled with countless believers, yet there would be a great divide among the crowd. We are all called to have a personal relationship with Jesus. We are all sons and daughters of God- brothers and sisters in Christ. Yet, we find our differences and we get stuck on them. We are blinded to the fact that we all worship the same God, that we share similar morals and values, and that Jesus died on the cross to redeem us all! We get stuck on differences between denominations, differences in individual beliefs, and think that someone else should be living their life as *we* think they *should.*
According to my research, there are currently about 33,000 different denominations. How easy it is for us to first figure out what we want in a religion, then go "church searching" for where we "fit in." Often (not always), we become selfish in trying to please ourselves with what "feels comfortable" instead of going where God is calling us. Jesus is calling each of us somewhere, He is calling us each by name.
I have found that too often we get caught up in the practices of our denomination and we forget who Jesus really and truly is! While practices and core beliefs and teachings are great, they do not define us. Our identity should be found in Christ. Our lives should be a clear example that we are living out life for Him alone.
Attaching a denomination to our name tends to put us in a box. We now have to live up to the standards of this said religion. Now that we have a label, if we fail to live up to the teachings of our religion, it is either brought to our attention that we are not living the right kind of life, or we are just silently judged. Don't get me wrong, belonging to a church body is one of the necessities when it comes to spiritual growth.
While each church is certainly unique in its own ways, the Catholic Church is the one that stands out from all the rest. Why is that? The Catholic Church claims that they are the one, true church founded by Jesus Christ-- and from my findings, it can be dated that far back. While I am Catholic, the Catholic Church does not define me. It is not all whom I am. I listen to God above all. I filter the teachings of the Church through Scripture. When there is doubt about any particular teaching, I do the research (from many different angles, despite that fact that almost all research is biased) on my own instead of just accepting an answer from just anyone. Above all, I pray that I am where God wants me. I pray that my eyes are open to follow the path that God wants me on. Just because I am Catholic, it does not mean that I am better then anyone else, or that I am holier either. For I am not. I am not "more saved" then the person next door. It all comes down to how I live my life. Living a life for Christ is rewarding beyond words!
Since planting myself firm in Catholicism, trials and heartache have come up. As much as some of the things that have been going on hurt me, I take comfort that God has a plan. Despite Catholicism appearing to be a barrier right now, by staying strong, the walls will be taken down -- as long as I am doing it for the right reasons. As long as I continue to seek God first and foremost in my life, I will continue to be blessed abundantly. "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).
Unfortunately, this does not settle well with everyone. Often times, we strive to tell others how to live their life. We are quick to point out their faults without first learning their background, we fail to understand their motives behind any actions, and then we try to push our own beliefs upon them, even before we acknowledge that we have anything ourselves to work on! "You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." Matthew 7:5 We are too quick to point and finger and tell others what they are doing wrong and then offer a solution to "fix" them. Why cannot we accept them as they are and leave the heart stirring to God? For when things are left to God to "fix," beautiful things happen!
In conclusion, even when we put a stake in the ground for Christ and strive to imitate His ways, we are always going to face conflict. For even Jesus said, "51 Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. 52 From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law" (Luke 12:51-53). Even if and or when we find someone of "like mind," there will come a time when the differences come out. Cannot we just accept them for where they are and love them as God loves us? Give the situation to God. Ask for the grace of understanding and acceptance. Leave it all to God to work miracles.
Jesus should be a reason to bring us together -- not cause a great divide.
Dearest heavenly Father, please help me to love all of Your children-- all of my brothers and sisters in Christ-- equally! Please help me accept everyone without judgment. Help me acknowledge the areas of my life that I need to work on to live the life that You want for me! You know the motives behind my every action, so please guide me to act from a pure heart-- something that can only come from you, Lord! I ask all of this in Jesus' name. Amen.
V. Send forth Thy Spirit and they shall be created.
R. And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray. O God, Who didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise, and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."
One would not think that Jesus would be a cause for division amongst people, yet it happens. There could be a place filled with countless believers, yet there would be a great divide among the crowd. We are all called to have a personal relationship with Jesus. We are all sons and daughters of God- brothers and sisters in Christ. Yet, we find our differences and we get stuck on them. We are blinded to the fact that we all worship the same God, that we share similar morals and values, and that Jesus died on the cross to redeem us all! We get stuck on differences between denominations, differences in individual beliefs, and think that someone else should be living their life as *we* think they *should.*
According to my research, there are currently about 33,000 different denominations. How easy it is for us to first figure out what we want in a religion, then go "church searching" for where we "fit in." Often (not always), we become selfish in trying to please ourselves with what "feels comfortable" instead of going where God is calling us. Jesus is calling each of us somewhere, He is calling us each by name.
I have found that too often we get caught up in the practices of our denomination and we forget who Jesus really and truly is! While practices and core beliefs and teachings are great, they do not define us. Our identity should be found in Christ. Our lives should be a clear example that we are living out life for Him alone.
Attaching a denomination to our name tends to put us in a box. We now have to live up to the standards of this said religion. Now that we have a label, if we fail to live up to the teachings of our religion, it is either brought to our attention that we are not living the right kind of life, or we are just silently judged. Don't get me wrong, belonging to a church body is one of the necessities when it comes to spiritual growth.
While each church is certainly unique in its own ways, the Catholic Church is the one that stands out from all the rest. Why is that? The Catholic Church claims that they are the one, true church founded by Jesus Christ-- and from my findings, it can be dated that far back. While I am Catholic, the Catholic Church does not define me. It is not all whom I am. I listen to God above all. I filter the teachings of the Church through Scripture. When there is doubt about any particular teaching, I do the research (from many different angles, despite that fact that almost all research is biased) on my own instead of just accepting an answer from just anyone. Above all, I pray that I am where God wants me. I pray that my eyes are open to follow the path that God wants me on. Just because I am Catholic, it does not mean that I am better then anyone else, or that I am holier either. For I am not. I am not "more saved" then the person next door. It all comes down to how I live my life. Living a life for Christ is rewarding beyond words!
Since planting myself firm in Catholicism, trials and heartache have come up. As much as some of the things that have been going on hurt me, I take comfort that God has a plan. Despite Catholicism appearing to be a barrier right now, by staying strong, the walls will be taken down -- as long as I am doing it for the right reasons. As long as I continue to seek God first and foremost in my life, I will continue to be blessed abundantly. "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).
Unfortunately, this does not settle well with everyone. Often times, we strive to tell others how to live their life. We are quick to point out their faults without first learning their background, we fail to understand their motives behind any actions, and then we try to push our own beliefs upon them, even before we acknowledge that we have anything ourselves to work on! "You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." Matthew 7:5 We are too quick to point and finger and tell others what they are doing wrong and then offer a solution to "fix" them. Why cannot we accept them as they are and leave the heart stirring to God? For when things are left to God to "fix," beautiful things happen!
In conclusion, even when we put a stake in the ground for Christ and strive to imitate His ways, we are always going to face conflict. For even Jesus said, "51 Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. 52 From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law" (Luke 12:51-53). Even if and or when we find someone of "like mind," there will come a time when the differences come out. Cannot we just accept them for where they are and love them as God loves us? Give the situation to God. Ask for the grace of understanding and acceptance. Leave it all to God to work miracles.
Jesus should be a reason to bring us together -- not cause a great divide.
Dearest heavenly Father, please help me to love all of Your children-- all of my brothers and sisters in Christ-- equally! Please help me accept everyone without judgment. Help me acknowledge the areas of my life that I need to work on to live the life that You want for me! You know the motives behind my every action, so please guide me to act from a pure heart-- something that can only come from you, Lord! I ask all of this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Free Will to choose God's Will
"Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who carries out wicked schemes." Psalm 37:7
We all have good times and bad times, happy moments and sad moments, the ups and the downs, in our life. How do you deal with them??
There are so many different ways to handle these situations on this walk called life, but ultimately choosing the "correct" one can be a challenge. How do we know what the "right choice" is? It all comes down to what pleases God. I don't believe that there is "just one way" to please God. While we do have a free will to make our choices, good or bad, there is not just one good choice and one bad choice.
How does one know the will of God? Ask. By Prayer. Constant prayer. Pray to do the will of God. Pray for grace from God to do good in all things. Pray to imitate Christ! Set a goal to live life for Christ.
Ultimately, put Christ at the center and watch everything else line up! In the trying moments of life, choosing the words, deeds, actions that are pleasing to God will be an automatic response!
David Crowder Band "Light and Shadows"
Life is full of light and shadow
O the joy and O the sorrow
O the sorrow
And yet will He bring
Dark to light
And yet will He bring
Day from night
When shadows fall on us
We will not fear
We will remember
When darkness falls on us
We will not fear
We will remember
When all seems lost
When we're thrown and we're tossed
We remember the cost
We rest in Him
Shadow of the cross
We all have good times and bad times, happy moments and sad moments, the ups and the downs, in our life. How do you deal with them??
There are so many different ways to handle these situations on this walk called life, but ultimately choosing the "correct" one can be a challenge. How do we know what the "right choice" is? It all comes down to what pleases God. I don't believe that there is "just one way" to please God. While we do have a free will to make our choices, good or bad, there is not just one good choice and one bad choice.
How does one know the will of God? Ask. By Prayer. Constant prayer. Pray to do the will of God. Pray for grace from God to do good in all things. Pray to imitate Christ! Set a goal to live life for Christ.
Ultimately, put Christ at the center and watch everything else line up! In the trying moments of life, choosing the words, deeds, actions that are pleasing to God will be an automatic response!
David Crowder Band "Light and Shadows"
Life is full of light and shadow
O the joy and O the sorrow
O the sorrow
And yet will He bring
Dark to light
And yet will He bring
Day from night
When shadows fall on us
We will not fear
We will remember
When darkness falls on us
We will not fear
We will remember
When all seems lost
When we're thrown and we're tossed
We remember the cost
We rest in Him
Shadow of the cross
Saturday, October 29, 2011
The Beautiful Surrender
Letting go is not an easy thing to do. I often find myself doing things or saying things that I hope in vain will keep something for myself that I think that I need. So very thankful that God knows better. God has my life all mapped out for me. He knows who and what will come my way and which of these will stay and which ones will go. As stated in 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." I can take such comfort that God is watching out for me!
It is getting to that point of surrender-getting to that point of giving my entire life to God. Sometimes I want to cling onto the past. I get to the point of being comfortable with a certain situation, that I am afraid to experience something new. Even when I recognize that something is not benefiting me anymore, even when I know that it is time to move on, either for the sake of myself or someone else, fear can paralyze. I need to have that faith, hope and trust in God alone! I need to surrender my will to God and allow Him to work in my life in ways unimaginable to me!
Surrendering my life to God opens new doors of opportunity-ones that I would be too blind to see if I continued to life my life according to my own thoughts! I give everything that I am, and everything that I am not to the Lord. I am His, and He can do with me whatever He pleases to do. I know that He has wonderful plans in the works for me. I have complete faith that His plans will cause tremendous growth within me. I give everything to God- the good, the bad, the happy, the sad, the serious, the silly,and everything in between. The Lord my God is so awesomely amazing. God is working ever so tremendously in my life, who am I to stand in the way? I have had moments when I have received exactly as I have asked God for because I felt that I needed them, only for me to realize that God knew what He was doing by not allowing me such things.
How beautiful, how rewarding, how sweet it is to live for God! How wonderful it is to go out and not question my actions, because there is that trust that I am doing exactly as God has called me to do! I keep my faith in God strong by continuing to ask God to direct my ways, by asking the Holy Spirit to be ever present in my life, by continuing to seek the counsel and wisdom from those more experienced then myself, by constantly staying absorbed in the Word, and by communicating with the Lord, my God, through constant prayer --just to name a few.
The Lord's plans are great for me. I surrender my life to the Lord, and trust fully that His plans for my life are yielding great fruits!
It is getting to that point of surrender-getting to that point of giving my entire life to God. Sometimes I want to cling onto the past. I get to the point of being comfortable with a certain situation, that I am afraid to experience something new. Even when I recognize that something is not benefiting me anymore, even when I know that it is time to move on, either for the sake of myself or someone else, fear can paralyze. I need to have that faith, hope and trust in God alone! I need to surrender my will to God and allow Him to work in my life in ways unimaginable to me!
Surrendering my life to God opens new doors of opportunity-ones that I would be too blind to see if I continued to life my life according to my own thoughts! I give everything that I am, and everything that I am not to the Lord. I am His, and He can do with me whatever He pleases to do. I know that He has wonderful plans in the works for me. I have complete faith that His plans will cause tremendous growth within me. I give everything to God- the good, the bad, the happy, the sad, the serious, the silly,and everything in between. The Lord my God is so awesomely amazing. God is working ever so tremendously in my life, who am I to stand in the way? I have had moments when I have received exactly as I have asked God for because I felt that I needed them, only for me to realize that God knew what He was doing by not allowing me such things.
How beautiful, how rewarding, how sweet it is to live for God! How wonderful it is to go out and not question my actions, because there is that trust that I am doing exactly as God has called me to do! I keep my faith in God strong by continuing to ask God to direct my ways, by asking the Holy Spirit to be ever present in my life, by continuing to seek the counsel and wisdom from those more experienced then myself, by constantly staying absorbed in the Word, and by communicating with the Lord, my God, through constant prayer --just to name a few.
The Lord's plans are great for me. I surrender my life to the Lord, and trust fully that His plans for my life are yielding great fruits!
"Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." Matthew 7:21
"If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:10-12
Friday, October 28, 2011
With God, all things are possible!
Many people have their own idea of what love is, including myself. While I believe that the Bible sums up what love actually is:
I still have my own ideas that help me clarify what love is to me.
It basically comes down to this: Love is a choice. It is a conscience journey that one chooses to embark upon. Love is not "just a feeling," it is more then "just a euphoric feeling of floating on cloud 9."
Love comes from God; God is the source of all love. God gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, who shed His Precious Blood to save all mankind -- what greater love is there then this?
There is a complete trust in God that is born from love. God grants this grace to love unconditionally to anyone who asks with faith. Everyday I surrender my life to God. Everyday I hand my life over to the Lord of all. Everyday I receive my strength from my Father above.
When a relationship is centered around God's love, beautiful things transpire! Having a love focused and centered on God is beautiful beyond words! It is loving without conditions, loving beyond the humanly possible limits. It is a love that is unselfish, a love that respects, a love that honors and a love that cherishes. A love that is an exception to the rules. It is because of this God-focused love that I can honestly say that "chivalry isn't dead, and nor will it ever die." We are all children of God, and we treat each other as His sons and daughters, as our brothers and sisters in Christ. There is acceptance of everyone, there is no judgment. We are free to live to our greatest potential--to live for Christ!
Love gives the freedom to communicate, and to communicate well. Love speaks well, but listens better. Love does not strive to be the center of attention, it does not strive to be something that it isn't. Love is comfortable just being -- just being as God intended.
Sometimes love hurts. Love certainly is not perfect, and sometimes does not come easy. True love comes with its own set of challenges. Sometimes it is forgotten that love is a choice, and that it is something that constantly needs tending. Love cannot just be put out there left alone. No, love needs to be nurtured, love needs to be tended, love needs to be weeded and watered and cared for. I have often heard "oh, we just fell out of love." I personally don't believe that love is something that is "fallen into." I don't believe for a minute that love is a hole. That makes love seem like a trap! "Oh, they fell in love!" Nah, as I said earlier, love is a journey. Love is like taking a walk-- there will be good times and bad times and in-between times: up hills, and down hills, and all the plateaus!
Love compliments. It doesn't complete, it doesn't compete. Love is knowing when something needs you to be there, and when they need you to step back. Love is knowing when to hold on, and when to let go. Love is allowing the other person to do what God has called them to do with their life, and you to follow your own calling/vocation as well.
Love cannot be bought with trivial gifts. Actions speak louder then words, which is true when love is expressed in actions. Love can be expressed in the giving and the receiving of gifts, but it all depends on the motives of the heart for the gift giving that classifies whether the love was bought or not. Giving with expecting something in return is not love. Giving, for the sake of giving, is a beautiful form of love beyond words.
Loving from God has no resentment and no regrets. There are no longing for do-overs. It is faith that what was done, and what is being done is the will of God. There is trust that God's will will triumph over all things.
And whilest sometimes love certainly is not easy, I take comfort in having a love that is centered around God. From God, all good things come. Thru God, all things are possible.
I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:13
And looking at them Jesus said to them, "With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
-Matthew 19:26
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
I still have my own ideas that help me clarify what love is to me.
It basically comes down to this: Love is a choice. It is a conscience journey that one chooses to embark upon. Love is not "just a feeling," it is more then "just a euphoric feeling of floating on cloud 9."
Love comes from God; God is the source of all love. God gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, who shed His Precious Blood to save all mankind -- what greater love is there then this?
There is a complete trust in God that is born from love. God grants this grace to love unconditionally to anyone who asks with faith. Everyday I surrender my life to God. Everyday I hand my life over to the Lord of all. Everyday I receive my strength from my Father above.
When a relationship is centered around God's love, beautiful things transpire! Having a love focused and centered on God is beautiful beyond words! It is loving without conditions, loving beyond the humanly possible limits. It is a love that is unselfish, a love that respects, a love that honors and a love that cherishes. A love that is an exception to the rules. It is because of this God-focused love that I can honestly say that "chivalry isn't dead, and nor will it ever die." We are all children of God, and we treat each other as His sons and daughters, as our brothers and sisters in Christ. There is acceptance of everyone, there is no judgment. We are free to live to our greatest potential--to live for Christ!
Love gives the freedom to communicate, and to communicate well. Love speaks well, but listens better. Love does not strive to be the center of attention, it does not strive to be something that it isn't. Love is comfortable just being -- just being as God intended.
Sometimes love hurts. Love certainly is not perfect, and sometimes does not come easy. True love comes with its own set of challenges. Sometimes it is forgotten that love is a choice, and that it is something that constantly needs tending. Love cannot just be put out there left alone. No, love needs to be nurtured, love needs to be tended, love needs to be weeded and watered and cared for. I have often heard "oh, we just fell out of love." I personally don't believe that love is something that is "fallen into." I don't believe for a minute that love is a hole. That makes love seem like a trap! "Oh, they fell in love!" Nah, as I said earlier, love is a journey. Love is like taking a walk-- there will be good times and bad times and in-between times: up hills, and down hills, and all the plateaus!
Love compliments. It doesn't complete, it doesn't compete. Love is knowing when something needs you to be there, and when they need you to step back. Love is knowing when to hold on, and when to let go. Love is allowing the other person to do what God has called them to do with their life, and you to follow your own calling/vocation as well.
Love cannot be bought with trivial gifts. Actions speak louder then words, which is true when love is expressed in actions. Love can be expressed in the giving and the receiving of gifts, but it all depends on the motives of the heart for the gift giving that classifies whether the love was bought or not. Giving with expecting something in return is not love. Giving, for the sake of giving, is a beautiful form of love beyond words.
Loving from God has no resentment and no regrets. There are no longing for do-overs. It is faith that what was done, and what is being done is the will of God. There is trust that God's will will triumph over all things.
And whilest sometimes love certainly is not easy, I take comfort in having a love that is centered around God. From God, all good things come. Thru God, all things are possible.
I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:13
And looking at them Jesus said to them, "With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
-Matthew 19:26
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