Last night I was reading a book "I'm the Christian the devil warned you about" by Mario Murillo. It just seems to really speak to me about things that I am trying to figure out right now. And while the book is really good, I just was hit in the face with this verse. WOW what a revelation!!!!!..:
Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. (NIV)
So many times Satan wants us to be discouraged by our current circumstances. If he can get us focused on the negative aspects of life, we take our minds off God. We loose our peace, we get grumpy and depressed, we try to take things in our own hands, but everything that we go through (right now), is nothing compared to the glory that God will reveal in us. Satan is so scared that God's glory will be revealed in true Christians. When that happens his kingdom will shrink, so he comes against us so we get sidetracked and never reach the level that God wants us too.
So as you face your problems today, just remind Satan that he is not going to get you down by circumstances, what you are going through right now is temporal, God will bring you through it, and you will be stronger because of it. Remind him that, he is the one who has already been defeated.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
What I am Called to Change
There are many things I see in my line of work that make most people cringe and believe the worst about our society. To me, I try to find the good in people and help people to find the good in themselves and to work through problems that they may be facing.
I have found that I can work with most anyone, although I prefer to work with people who can admit what they are doing is wrong and want the help. I know sometimes that they don't start out that way, but until they get to the point that under no circumstance are they willing to change - I feel like I can help them. I feel sorry for those people who have help but will not utilize it to overcome the struggles thy are facing.
There is one thing that makes my blood boil. Honestly seeing things from this side of the fence I realize it a lot more than I did when I was part of "the system." TD Jakes once said "What upsets you the most, is what you are called to change." Well, he said that at a time in my work career that I was struggling with the injustice in the system.
I have always thought the system is broken. I was able to work within it to bring about change, with a hope of one day fixing the whole system. I am now starting to see that I must fix things from outside in if it is ever to truly help people.
At the time I heard T.D. Jakes say that, I was so upset I could only see red. I watched as the system allowed a non-repentant child molester walk away on a technicality after four years of holding a family hostage awaiting a trial. I had spent the two weeks before with the children and family, ignoring my own, because they were terrified of this man. I tried to explain how the system had failed.
My anger at the time, was not towards the system - for it, I made excuses. My anger was towards this man, I didn't even know, for the scars he left in this child's life and the fear this family had of him. I spent many a day on my knees in prayer wondering "How could God let this happen?" and asking God to forgive me for the angry, vindictive thoughts I was having towards this man.
As time passed and with much prayer on my behalf and by me, I was able to let go of my anger towards this man, who I still had never met. I was able to go on with my life, although I am not sure the family has been able to truly go on living theirs as they should be able to do.
Fast forward a year, and again I am faced with the same situation. Only this time, there is a face to the name and I can't blame the non-repentant molester because it was a court ruling, not a technicality that is going to allow him to go free. The "system" made a conscious decision to offer a callback on a nine year sentence, despite evidence, despite the availability of testimony, they made the decision. It wasn't some guy who got lucky or outsmarted the system, the system failed. It failed these children, it failed this family, and it failed all future victims.
The person who robbed these two children, and possibly two other children gets a slap on the wrist of county jail, 120 day in prison and a five year probation. Guess what there were five years between the allegations of the first child and the next two. Now he will have to wait five more for his next.
I am sorry, but there is no call for that. There is nothing that could have been said or done by this "predator" as he was called by the presentence investigation report in the one hundred and twenty day "SHOCK INCARCERATION" to warrant a release with probation. The only thing SHOCKING about this INCARCERATION was that is wasn't the nine years that was promised to the family.
I want to yell and scream from the roof tops to make someone take notice. However, I know in small town politics that will only cause a grudge that will be taken out on anyone that I come into contact with. Instead, I must once again separate myself farther away from the system so that I can fight for the people that most need the help. The silent voices of the children who are effected by these shocking judgements, where families and victims are promised one thing, and then something completely different is carried out.
I have found that I can work with most anyone, although I prefer to work with people who can admit what they are doing is wrong and want the help. I know sometimes that they don't start out that way, but until they get to the point that under no circumstance are they willing to change - I feel like I can help them. I feel sorry for those people who have help but will not utilize it to overcome the struggles thy are facing.
There is one thing that makes my blood boil. Honestly seeing things from this side of the fence I realize it a lot more than I did when I was part of "the system." TD Jakes once said "What upsets you the most, is what you are called to change." Well, he said that at a time in my work career that I was struggling with the injustice in the system.
I have always thought the system is broken. I was able to work within it to bring about change, with a hope of one day fixing the whole system. I am now starting to see that I must fix things from outside in if it is ever to truly help people.
At the time I heard T.D. Jakes say that, I was so upset I could only see red. I watched as the system allowed a non-repentant child molester walk away on a technicality after four years of holding a family hostage awaiting a trial. I had spent the two weeks before with the children and family, ignoring my own, because they were terrified of this man. I tried to explain how the system had failed.
My anger at the time, was not towards the system - for it, I made excuses. My anger was towards this man, I didn't even know, for the scars he left in this child's life and the fear this family had of him. I spent many a day on my knees in prayer wondering "How could God let this happen?" and asking God to forgive me for the angry, vindictive thoughts I was having towards this man.
As time passed and with much prayer on my behalf and by me, I was able to let go of my anger towards this man, who I still had never met. I was able to go on with my life, although I am not sure the family has been able to truly go on living theirs as they should be able to do.
Fast forward a year, and again I am faced with the same situation. Only this time, there is a face to the name and I can't blame the non-repentant molester because it was a court ruling, not a technicality that is going to allow him to go free. The "system" made a conscious decision to offer a callback on a nine year sentence, despite evidence, despite the availability of testimony, they made the decision. It wasn't some guy who got lucky or outsmarted the system, the system failed. It failed these children, it failed this family, and it failed all future victims.
The person who robbed these two children, and possibly two other children gets a slap on the wrist of county jail, 120 day in prison and a five year probation. Guess what there were five years between the allegations of the first child and the next two. Now he will have to wait five more for his next.
I am sorry, but there is no call for that. There is nothing that could have been said or done by this "predator" as he was called by the presentence investigation report in the one hundred and twenty day "SHOCK INCARCERATION" to warrant a release with probation. The only thing SHOCKING about this INCARCERATION was that is wasn't the nine years that was promised to the family.
I want to yell and scream from the roof tops to make someone take notice. However, I know in small town politics that will only cause a grudge that will be taken out on anyone that I come into contact with. Instead, I must once again separate myself farther away from the system so that I can fight for the people that most need the help. The silent voices of the children who are effected by these shocking judgements, where families and victims are promised one thing, and then something completely different is carried out.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Memorial Day
Men and women serving our county
Everyday, rain or shine, holiday or not
May, celebrates those who died for their country
Or who completed their tour with honor
Remembering also, those who are separated from their families
In efforts to maintain our freedom and lifestyle
And today are currently serving this great nation
Living away from those they love.
Dads, moms, aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, friends,
All made a decision to serve for you and me
Yet how often we take it for granted, instead of thanking them.
Everyday, rain or shine, holiday or not
May, celebrates those who died for their country
Or who completed their tour with honor
Remembering also, those who are separated from their families
In efforts to maintain our freedom and lifestyle
And today are currently serving this great nation
Living away from those they love.
Dads, moms, aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, friends,
All made a decision to serve for you and me
Yet how often we take it for granted, instead of thanking them.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Resurrection Day Thoughts
As the day comes to a close, I am just so amazed at the true meaning of today and what today truly cost. We started the day with an Easter egg hunt for the children, then I talked with them about the death and resurrection of Christ and how it was for them. I came home and took a nap, as my traditional Sunday schedule. Then was blessed with my husband’s attendance with us to church in addition to Malachi, Tim’s brother’s son. Then we went to Pizza Hut for dinner and found out that Arkansas lost to North Carolina. Grabbed some ice cream and came home to watch Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ.
I am so moved when I watched this movie, but today saw the Crucifixion from other’s view.
I thought about what it would be like for Mary, mother of Jesus to watch her son die. I can’t imagine this and can not even begin to picture my own son in that position. Or how I would feel as a mother, knowing my son gave up his life for all that I had done wrong. I could only think, "Lord thank you that you sent your son, and that I don’t have to sacrifice my own, but that it was my Lord who paid that price. For that I am eternally grateful."
Then I thought about what it was like for Mary M. to watch Jesus suffer and die. There are so many speculations about her relationship to Christ, but it is clear that she was close to Christ and loved him. I have lost many close friends, but I thank God that I really did not have to see any of them go through what Jesus did. I could only say "Thank you Lord that I am your friend, and that you were willing to lay your life down for me."
Then I wondered about Joseph - Jesus’ earthly dad. Where was he? After Jesus was twelve and in the temple teaching, I don’t recall to much more about him. And then I praise God because I was allowed my earthly father for almost twenty-one years of my life but also know that I have a Heavenly Father who will never leave or forsake me."
I think about that high priest and the look on his face as he watched Christ being scourged and crucified. What was he thinking that day? Was it really worth the cost? As he watched it unfold did he find satisfaction or condemnation? I must thank God that he sent his son to be the high priest, to take my sins upon him and that he revealed his mercy to the world that day.
I think about those who actually beat and crucified Christ. Were they just doing their job or did they take pleasure in the torture? Did they feel different this day? I feel sorrow, as I think that it was for my sins he paid this great price.
I think about John, the beloved. He was the only one who stuck around. He was there as his friend and savior died. He was there to take care of Jesus’ mother and Mary M. to comfort them. Lord I thank you for being a friend that sticks closer than a brother, but I also ask that you send true friends like John to be in my life, and help me to be like John too.
I think about the man who carried Jesus’ cross. Did he believe Christ was the Messiah or did he feel burdened to have to help this condemned man. I thank God for the cross and the price that was paid so many years ago.
I am so moved when I watched this movie, but today saw the Crucifixion from other’s view.
I thought about what it would be like for Mary, mother of Jesus to watch her son die. I can’t imagine this and can not even begin to picture my own son in that position. Or how I would feel as a mother, knowing my son gave up his life for all that I had done wrong. I could only think, "Lord thank you that you sent your son, and that I don’t have to sacrifice my own, but that it was my Lord who paid that price. For that I am eternally grateful."
Then I thought about what it was like for Mary M. to watch Jesus suffer and die. There are so many speculations about her relationship to Christ, but it is clear that she was close to Christ and loved him. I have lost many close friends, but I thank God that I really did not have to see any of them go through what Jesus did. I could only say "Thank you Lord that I am your friend, and that you were willing to lay your life down for me."
Then I wondered about Joseph - Jesus’ earthly dad. Where was he? After Jesus was twelve and in the temple teaching, I don’t recall to much more about him. And then I praise God because I was allowed my earthly father for almost twenty-one years of my life but also know that I have a Heavenly Father who will never leave or forsake me."
I think about that high priest and the look on his face as he watched Christ being scourged and crucified. What was he thinking that day? Was it really worth the cost? As he watched it unfold did he find satisfaction or condemnation? I must thank God that he sent his son to be the high priest, to take my sins upon him and that he revealed his mercy to the world that day.
I think about those who actually beat and crucified Christ. Were they just doing their job or did they take pleasure in the torture? Did they feel different this day? I feel sorrow, as I think that it was for my sins he paid this great price.
I think about John, the beloved. He was the only one who stuck around. He was there as his friend and savior died. He was there to take care of Jesus’ mother and Mary M. to comfort them. Lord I thank you for being a friend that sticks closer than a brother, but I also ask that you send true friends like John to be in my life, and help me to be like John too.
I think about the man who carried Jesus’ cross. Did he believe Christ was the Messiah or did he feel burdened to have to help this condemned man. I thank God for the cross and the price that was paid so many years ago.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Easter Egg Thoughts
This morning we started with an Easter Egg hunt for the children at church. I know that eggs are not what Easter is really about - in fact eggs have nothing to do with it. But as I stuffed, tossed and watched the eggs be picked up by 40 excited children, I am reminded of what the egg represents. We do plastic eggs filled with candy. And while they have nothing to do with the true meaning of today they do hold some value in teaching children about the love of Christ and the true meaning of today.
1) You see we are all lost and must be found - just as the eggs must be found.
2) The eggs are whole, but must be broken to get the candy. We think we are whole, but must be broken if we are ever to allow the good things in our life to come out.
3) The eggs are hollow, just like the tomb.
4) Jesus went into the tomb, but came out. Just like the candy goes into the eggs, but has to come out to be enjoyed.
5) We are suppose to come to Jesus as little children. Have you ever seen the way children come to an Easter egg hunt! They are on a mission, passionate, excited, and ready to fight to get what they want.
6) Eggs are a sign of new life and fertility. When we come to Christ we are given a new life and have the ability to bear fruit.
7) Just like the little plastic eggs come in many shapes and sizes with one purpose - so do we. We all have different gifts and talents, we are all different shapes and sizes. Our end goal is the same - to end up in the basket going to Heaven. No one person is more important than the other it is our collectiveness that makes a true difference.
1) You see we are all lost and must be found - just as the eggs must be found.
2) The eggs are whole, but must be broken to get the candy. We think we are whole, but must be broken if we are ever to allow the good things in our life to come out.
3) The eggs are hollow, just like the tomb.
4) Jesus went into the tomb, but came out. Just like the candy goes into the eggs, but has to come out to be enjoyed.
5) We are suppose to come to Jesus as little children. Have you ever seen the way children come to an Easter egg hunt! They are on a mission, passionate, excited, and ready to fight to get what they want.
6) Eggs are a sign of new life and fertility. When we come to Christ we are given a new life and have the ability to bear fruit.
7) Just like the little plastic eggs come in many shapes and sizes with one purpose - so do we. We all have different gifts and talents, we are all different shapes and sizes. Our end goal is the same - to end up in the basket going to Heaven. No one person is more important than the other it is our collectiveness that makes a true difference.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Today I Miss You
It is been eleven years, but today I miss you.
I am feeling sentimental and tearing up too
Although I have come to realize the time was right
When God took you home leading you into the light.
At first I was angry and couldn’t understand
"Have faith and he will be healed" were the words of the preacher man
I thought I let you down when my prayers didn’t come true
But God’s will was done that day in you
You stood forgiven for all that you did
The wrongs you did when I was just a kid
You could stand before God knowing all was forgiven
Not worrying if you would once again turn to sin
But today as I go visit that plot of land
I can rest assured you are in God’s hand
So even though there are tears in my eyes
As I quietly try to hide my cries
I know that one day I will see you again
When I meet my Savior and hear the angel band.
I just didn’t know, didn't have a clue
That today I would still be missing you.
I am feeling sentimental and tearing up too
Although I have come to realize the time was right
When God took you home leading you into the light.
At first I was angry and couldn’t understand
"Have faith and he will be healed" were the words of the preacher man
I thought I let you down when my prayers didn’t come true
But God’s will was done that day in you
You stood forgiven for all that you did
The wrongs you did when I was just a kid
You could stand before God knowing all was forgiven
Not worrying if you would once again turn to sin
But today as I go visit that plot of land
I can rest assured you are in God’s hand
So even though there are tears in my eyes
As I quietly try to hide my cries
I know that one day I will see you again
When I meet my Savior and hear the angel band.
I just didn’t know, didn't have a clue
That today I would still be missing you.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
The Light
I have been reading a book by Christine Caine called Stop Acting Like a Christian and Just Be One. In one of the Chapters "Into All the World" she tells about her young daughter's fascination with flashlights. The little one would take the flashlight all around the house all day long while it was daylight running down the batteries. She draws a correlation to the church body and how we are to be the light of the world.
As I thought about her message, I saw a different picture. Just as her daughter liked to shine the light where things were already lit – we Christians spend so much of our time wasting our energy (The battery) where there is already light. We confine our ministry to the church instead of taking it out into the darkness of the world around us.
Don't get me wrong, there are needs within the church body that allow our light to be shown, and most of the time we spend all our time and all our energy shining the light around our church body. We are thinking that our light is so bright, but when it comes to the world around us we don't have the energy to minister.
We should just open the door and shine it outside and truly illuminate the world around us. We need to bring in the world around us, into the light and out of the darkness.
I want to be a light in the darkness. I want my light to shine at church. I want my light to shine within my family. I want my light to shine in world around me. I want to draw others into the light. Not to glorify myself, but to glorify God.
As I thought about her message, I saw a different picture. Just as her daughter liked to shine the light where things were already lit – we Christians spend so much of our time wasting our energy (The battery) where there is already light. We confine our ministry to the church instead of taking it out into the darkness of the world around us.
Don't get me wrong, there are needs within the church body that allow our light to be shown, and most of the time we spend all our time and all our energy shining the light around our church body. We are thinking that our light is so bright, but when it comes to the world around us we don't have the energy to minister.
We should just open the door and shine it outside and truly illuminate the world around us. We need to bring in the world around us, into the light and out of the darkness.
I want to be a light in the darkness. I want my light to shine at church. I want my light to shine within my family. I want my light to shine in world around me. I want to draw others into the light. Not to glorify myself, but to glorify God.
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