From: My Utmost For His Highest
By: Oswald Chambers
Now the Lord says, who formed Me from the womb to be His Servant . . . —Isaiah 49:5
The first thing that happens after we recognize our election by God in Christ Jesus is the destruction of our preconceived ideas, our narrow-minded thinking, and all of our other allegiances— we are turned solely into servants of God’s own purpose. The entire human race was created to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever. Sin has diverted the human race onto another course, but it has not altered God’s purpose to the slightest degree. And when we are born again we are brought into the realization of God’s great purpose for the human race, namely, that He created us for Himself. This realization of our election by God is the most joyful on earth, and we must learn to rely on this tremendous creative purpose of God. The first thing God will do is force the interests of the whole world through the channel of our hearts. The love of God, and even His very nature, is introduced into us. And we see the nature of Almighty God purely focused in
John 3:16 — "For God so loved the world. . . ."
We must continually keep our soul open to the fact of God’s creative purpose, and never confuse or cloud it with our own intentions. If we do, God will have to force our intentions aside no matter how much it may hurt. A missionary is created for the purpose of being God’s servant, one in whom God is glorified. Once we realize that it is through the salvation of Jesus Christ that we are made perfectly fit for the purpose of God, we will understand why Jesus Christ is so strict and relentless in His demands. He demands absolute righteousness from His servants, because He has put into them the very nature of God.
Beware lest you forget God’s purpose for your life
Monday, September 21, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Jesus Made Me Chuckle This Weekend...
The Lord moves in ways that we never expect. He just never ceases to amaze me and I can’t help but worship Him. He makes me chuckle sometimes… ☺. This weekend the plan was to meet up with a friend and drive down to Birmingham, Alabama for the weekend. Jade and Shelah Acker (Lino’s guardians) are in the States and I would never pass up an opportunity to visit with them. So Thursday night I began my journey after work. Luckily the route that takes me to Alabama is packed with people I love! So I spent Thursday night in Indianapolis with a friend. Friday was very leisurely in that I slept in, took my time getting ready, had lunch, and then hit the road to Louisville. Here’s where the story begins… On my drive towards Louisville I was blessed to get a phone call from dear friends in Uganda. They were quite entertaining and kept me going along the LONG road. I was so happy and excited about talking with them that I got to my next stop in no time. As soon as I hung up the phone with them and went to restart my car after getting fuel, my passenger side window rolled itself down. I thought that maybe I had hit the window button or something, but I wasn’t even close to touching it. It wouldn’t have been a big deal except for the fact that the window refused to roll itself back up. So there I was, driving along at 80 mile per hours with the HOT wind in my hair when I began to feel sick. So I pulled over, leaving everything (computer included) in my car with a window that was permanently stuck in the down position, and headed for the restroom. After a one other stop like that, the medicine kicked in and I started to feel better, but it was still hot and I still had hundreds of miles to go… by myself (my traveling buddy backed out at the last minute). I was able to stop and hang out with a friend from college for a bit near Louisville and get myself reenergized.
As I got back in my car for the next 3-hour leg of the journey I began to feel defeated. I realized how disappointed I was that I had to travel by myself when I was looking forward to a road trip with a friend. Then I started to have a pity party for myself about my now broken car window. The journey didn’t seem as great at that moment.
Then I was quickly reminded of some scripture that I had been reading that morning. I had just flipped to the Psalms for a quick read before leaving Indy and I came across Psalm 44. The people were feeling quite defeated, they was being attacked by their enemies on all sides feeling very separated from God. Their battles were being lost and they were crying out for God to hear them. When I read that I was thinking, “you silly people. Don’t you see God hasn’t left you? Just because things aren’t going your way or the way you had planned does not mean that God has deserted you.” But somehow, through the little trials I was experiencing during what was SUPPOSED to be a glorious weekend, I was just as defeated as these warriors were. Then I remembered the next two Psalms after that. Psalm 46 says:
God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
A river brings joy to the city of our God,
the sacred home of the Most High.
God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed.
From the very break of day, God will protect it.
The nations are in chaos,
and their kingdoms crumble!
God’s voice thunders,
and the earth melts!
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.
Come, see the glorious works of the Lord:
See how he brings destruction upon the world.
He causes wars to end throughout the earth.
He breaks the bow and snaps the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress
I was immediately in awe of Jesus… so thankful for the reminders that He gives throughout each day of His presence and His faithfulness. Clearly my little troubles of a tummy ache, broken window, and lonely car trip were not as impending as being attacked by armies of my enemies, but I did begin to feel defeated about something I was once SO very excited about. The enemy was trying to take my joy. Luckily I have God on my side. So the trip to Nashville was a sweet time of worship and prayer and laughter… especially as the rain began to fall and make it’s way into my vehicle. I couldn’t help but chuckle. The anxiety dissipated and I kept on rolling. When I got to Nashville I borrowed a garbage bag, taped up my window and quickly forgot about as I reunited with a great friend. It was a blessing to hang with Meghan for the night and morning… we even got to spend some time in downtown Nashville… something I hadn’t done in a few years. ☺
As noon approached on Saturday, I removed the plastic from my car and began my journey to Alabama where I had a fabulous time hanging out with Jade and Shelah and some other really fun friends that I met in Uganda. It was so cool to just have time to sit and chat and catch up on their lives and the lives of the Sudanese guys. Seeing their girls was so sweet! Anna-Grace was SO excited to see me… she ran and gave me a HUGE hug as if I’d never left Uganda. She’s too cute!
My trip back was a bit less eventful, but it was sure not missing the Lord’s presence. One night while driving I realized I was getting real cold and even with the heat, the cool night air was biting. I was having a convo with Jesus and just happened to mention that I was feeling cold… a few minutes later my window was half-way up and I hadn’t touched anything. I though, “um ok… this is weird.” To my delight/shock/joy/amazement my window rolled all the way up and I was warm and safe inside my car with just a short bit of my journey remaining. I can’t explain it other than that Jesus is awesome and the electrical system in my car is crazy!
As far as weekends go, I couldn’t have asked for a better one. I mean, time with Jesus, time with friends along the road, time talking to my buddies in Uganda (a few times actually, thanks for calling guys!), time with my Uganda family in Alabama, and then time with Trent’s youth kids on the way back... what more can you ask for out of a weekend, really??
So that’s the story and that’s what God and I were up to this weekend. This is a short but busy week filled with work, meetings, worship team practice, and another drive down to Indy on Friday. Would you pray for energy throughout the week? Also, I’m going as an adult leader on Trent’s junior high youth retreat (hence the reason I’m driving to Indy again)… just pray for the student’s heart to be open and pray for a good time to connect with them. Oh! Also… Heritage International School (where I taught last year in Uganda) is getting ready for and going on their fall retreat this week. Please, please pray for the Spirit to fall on the kids, pray for the speaker, pray for the music, and please pray for safety. Thanks so much everyone!
Well now that I’m home from the weekend and done updating you all… I’m gonna attempt a nap. ☺
As I got back in my car for the next 3-hour leg of the journey I began to feel defeated. I realized how disappointed I was that I had to travel by myself when I was looking forward to a road trip with a friend. Then I started to have a pity party for myself about my now broken car window. The journey didn’t seem as great at that moment.
Then I was quickly reminded of some scripture that I had been reading that morning. I had just flipped to the Psalms for a quick read before leaving Indy and I came across Psalm 44. The people were feeling quite defeated, they was being attacked by their enemies on all sides feeling very separated from God. Their battles were being lost and they were crying out for God to hear them. When I read that I was thinking, “you silly people. Don’t you see God hasn’t left you? Just because things aren’t going your way or the way you had planned does not mean that God has deserted you.” But somehow, through the little trials I was experiencing during what was SUPPOSED to be a glorious weekend, I was just as defeated as these warriors were. Then I remembered the next two Psalms after that. Psalm 46 says:
God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
A river brings joy to the city of our God,
the sacred home of the Most High.
God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed.
From the very break of day, God will protect it.
The nations are in chaos,
and their kingdoms crumble!
God’s voice thunders,
and the earth melts!
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.
Come, see the glorious works of the Lord:
See how he brings destruction upon the world.
He causes wars to end throughout the earth.
He breaks the bow and snaps the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress
I was immediately in awe of Jesus… so thankful for the reminders that He gives throughout each day of His presence and His faithfulness. Clearly my little troubles of a tummy ache, broken window, and lonely car trip were not as impending as being attacked by armies of my enemies, but I did begin to feel defeated about something I was once SO very excited about. The enemy was trying to take my joy. Luckily I have God on my side. So the trip to Nashville was a sweet time of worship and prayer and laughter… especially as the rain began to fall and make it’s way into my vehicle. I couldn’t help but chuckle. The anxiety dissipated and I kept on rolling. When I got to Nashville I borrowed a garbage bag, taped up my window and quickly forgot about as I reunited with a great friend. It was a blessing to hang with Meghan for the night and morning… we even got to spend some time in downtown Nashville… something I hadn’t done in a few years. ☺
As noon approached on Saturday, I removed the plastic from my car and began my journey to Alabama where I had a fabulous time hanging out with Jade and Shelah and some other really fun friends that I met in Uganda. It was so cool to just have time to sit and chat and catch up on their lives and the lives of the Sudanese guys. Seeing their girls was so sweet! Anna-Grace was SO excited to see me… she ran and gave me a HUGE hug as if I’d never left Uganda. She’s too cute!
My trip back was a bit less eventful, but it was sure not missing the Lord’s presence. One night while driving I realized I was getting real cold and even with the heat, the cool night air was biting. I was having a convo with Jesus and just happened to mention that I was feeling cold… a few minutes later my window was half-way up and I hadn’t touched anything. I though, “um ok… this is weird.” To my delight/shock/joy/amazement my window rolled all the way up and I was warm and safe inside my car with just a short bit of my journey remaining. I can’t explain it other than that Jesus is awesome and the electrical system in my car is crazy!
As far as weekends go, I couldn’t have asked for a better one. I mean, time with Jesus, time with friends along the road, time talking to my buddies in Uganda (a few times actually, thanks for calling guys!), time with my Uganda family in Alabama, and then time with Trent’s youth kids on the way back... what more can you ask for out of a weekend, really??
So that’s the story and that’s what God and I were up to this weekend. This is a short but busy week filled with work, meetings, worship team practice, and another drive down to Indy on Friday. Would you pray for energy throughout the week? Also, I’m going as an adult leader on Trent’s junior high youth retreat (hence the reason I’m driving to Indy again)… just pray for the student’s heart to be open and pray for a good time to connect with them. Oh! Also… Heritage International School (where I taught last year in Uganda) is getting ready for and going on their fall retreat this week. Please, please pray for the Spirit to fall on the kids, pray for the speaker, pray for the music, and please pray for safety. Thanks so much everyone!
Well now that I’m home from the weekend and done updating you all… I’m gonna attempt a nap. ☺
Monday, September 7, 2009
Great is Thy Faithfulness
I always start by apologizing for not updating frequently and this is not unlike the rest... life has been going nonstop for weeks. Here's a brief catch-up session for you: Indeed I got to see the Hopsons, it was awesome! Yes my bff came in from Seattle and yes it was absolutely fantastic to spend time with her. Of course I went to the Cubs game and though they lost the game, I had a great day in the city with some fabulous friends!
That doesn't sound like a lot and I realize that, but what I didn't expect to do in the midst of all of that was have surgery. It wasn't a huge deal and it shoulda healed in about a week, but because I had all that exciting stuff going on... I didn't rest therefore the stitches came apart and I've been laid up for almost 2 weeks! It's my own fault and I recognize that, but it doesn't make it any less annoying to do NOTHING for so long. I've not been able to work, thus my money supply is rapidly deteriorating. AND since I'm still healing I'm not supposed to be doing too much activity... my Nintendo is getting a lot of use right now. I'm still planning on my trip to Alabama this weekend to see Jade and Shelah Acker (Lino's soon-to-be adoptive parents) while they're home in the States! Please pray for safe travels. :)
Beyond that I've had a lot of exciting stuff going on in my life pertaining to my churches...
And this brings me to the point of this update. Jesus is absolutely faithful. I had previously talked about trying to figure out my future and where my ministry needed to focus. I specifically asked God to make it clear where I was supposed to be spending my Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. No sooner did I pray that prayer, than I got answers. I know that my "home" church is the UM church out here in Plano. I love the Body of Christ out here and I love serving and spending time with them. But I also know that my original "home" church was WSUMC in Naperville and I've been wanting to reconnect with them for years. The Lord brought two separate people to me from WS to tell me about ministry needs at the church. One is a small group leader for Sunday school which I'll be co-leading with Joy Thomas (love her!), the other is a director for the youth worship team. You all know my passions and music and youth rank pretty high up there! The call about the worship team can a mere two days after talking with Joy about Sunday school. I was very up front about my level of commitment, knowing that I'm going back to Africa (more on that later), but I also expressed my excitement to get something going with the kids out there. Becky (my old youth pastor, mentor, and great friend) is the one I was talking to about this and she was very aware of the fact that I'd be leaving for Africa in the near future and she kinda figured that into her plan of calling me. Jesus gave her a peace about it knowing that I could get stuff going and then someone else could take over once I'm gone. (Another confirmation towards my return to Uganda).
So anyways, I went to youth group a couple of Wednesday nights ago to kinda meet the kids and introduce myself. (It's so weird to be back at my "home" church and have no one know me anymore because it's been so long. I don't know any of the kids!) All of that said, I'm SUPER excited to get this party started and to start sharing my philosophy of worship with the kids and then form a team to lead others into worship. It will only be by God's strength that I'll be able to do this and do it well, but I'm pumped. Would you be in prayer with me about this? I've always felt very mediocre at singing, average at guitar, and like I'm just a beginner on piano, however I've got a great understanding of music theory type stuff. BUT I've done this before because God has given me a heart of worship and I'm excited to tell them what I know, what God wants them to hear, and then to share that passion with the rest of the youth through worship. Pray for the youth and their hearts. Pray for my leadership and direction. :) Praise Him for such an opportunity.
I've been praying for clarity since I returned home (almost 3 months ago!!!) and once again, God has answered that prayer for me. Isn't it so much easier to see things when we wait for the Lord to reveal them to us? Go figure! Anypoo, in my seeking about what's next I've been feeling like God is leading me back to Uganda. My plan at this point, unless Jesus has something else that's unforeseen by me, is to go back as a VIA (volunteer in action) like last time. However, unlike last time I won't be teaching at Heritage International School, my focus will be more on KIU (Kampala International University) ministries and marketing. There have been talks about a program with the orphans on Buvuma Island (where we have a church and a school) to get them sponsors and I would LOVE to be the person to help get that program up and running. I've been in talks with my field director (well former field director) in Uganda, who has been in talks with THE field director of Uganda and the regional director of WGM in Africa and they're discussing possibilities and options. I would really like to get back there by January and my thoughts are leaning towards a 2 year commitment at this point. Obviously I'm still waiting to hear back from the big bosses across the sea to hear their thoughts, but more and more I'm getting confirmation from the Lord through other people and through circumstances. He has covered me with a peace that I still don't understand and is preparing me even now for my time there. I'm asking for you guys to pray with me about this. There are still plenty of details to be worked out and then there's that little thing called a budget to work out and then I'll need to start raising support in an economy that screams, "keep everything you have!! Save your money!!"
Yikes. Raising support is a daunting task for me because it's so humbling. I've never been good at letting people give to me, but I know that in supporting me they're supporting my ministries and the works God has given me.
I long to be back in Uganda. It's strange to feel homesick for a place that I spent a short 11 months in, but I do. And it's such a real and strong feeling. My first trip was a breeze, in a sense... I was healthy (thanks be to God) and I did what Jesus asked me to do. Not that there weren't any struggles and not that there weren't times I was ready to throw in the towel and come home, but I have a feeling that this trip, whenever it is... is going to be a totally different experience. Pray, even now that I would adjust well, be healthy, and be able to jump right into serving the Lord in whatever capacity He allows me to.
Thanks to you all for your love! I love you all so much!! If you would, send me your address and email address to help me keep you updated on my progress as I move forward with these plans. My email is christina.maddalone@gmail.com.
That doesn't sound like a lot and I realize that, but what I didn't expect to do in the midst of all of that was have surgery. It wasn't a huge deal and it shoulda healed in about a week, but because I had all that exciting stuff going on... I didn't rest therefore the stitches came apart and I've been laid up for almost 2 weeks! It's my own fault and I recognize that, but it doesn't make it any less annoying to do NOTHING for so long. I've not been able to work, thus my money supply is rapidly deteriorating. AND since I'm still healing I'm not supposed to be doing too much activity... my Nintendo is getting a lot of use right now. I'm still planning on my trip to Alabama this weekend to see Jade and Shelah Acker (Lino's soon-to-be adoptive parents) while they're home in the States! Please pray for safe travels. :)
Beyond that I've had a lot of exciting stuff going on in my life pertaining to my churches...
And this brings me to the point of this update. Jesus is absolutely faithful. I had previously talked about trying to figure out my future and where my ministry needed to focus. I specifically asked God to make it clear where I was supposed to be spending my Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. No sooner did I pray that prayer, than I got answers. I know that my "home" church is the UM church out here in Plano. I love the Body of Christ out here and I love serving and spending time with them. But I also know that my original "home" church was WSUMC in Naperville and I've been wanting to reconnect with them for years. The Lord brought two separate people to me from WS to tell me about ministry needs at the church. One is a small group leader for Sunday school which I'll be co-leading with Joy Thomas (love her!), the other is a director for the youth worship team. You all know my passions and music and youth rank pretty high up there! The call about the worship team can a mere two days after talking with Joy about Sunday school. I was very up front about my level of commitment, knowing that I'm going back to Africa (more on that later), but I also expressed my excitement to get something going with the kids out there. Becky (my old youth pastor, mentor, and great friend) is the one I was talking to about this and she was very aware of the fact that I'd be leaving for Africa in the near future and she kinda figured that into her plan of calling me. Jesus gave her a peace about it knowing that I could get stuff going and then someone else could take over once I'm gone. (Another confirmation towards my return to Uganda).
So anyways, I went to youth group a couple of Wednesday nights ago to kinda meet the kids and introduce myself. (It's so weird to be back at my "home" church and have no one know me anymore because it's been so long. I don't know any of the kids!) All of that said, I'm SUPER excited to get this party started and to start sharing my philosophy of worship with the kids and then form a team to lead others into worship. It will only be by God's strength that I'll be able to do this and do it well, but I'm pumped. Would you be in prayer with me about this? I've always felt very mediocre at singing, average at guitar, and like I'm just a beginner on piano, however I've got a great understanding of music theory type stuff. BUT I've done this before because God has given me a heart of worship and I'm excited to tell them what I know, what God wants them to hear, and then to share that passion with the rest of the youth through worship. Pray for the youth and their hearts. Pray for my leadership and direction. :) Praise Him for such an opportunity.
I've been praying for clarity since I returned home (almost 3 months ago!!!) and once again, God has answered that prayer for me. Isn't it so much easier to see things when we wait for the Lord to reveal them to us? Go figure! Anypoo, in my seeking about what's next I've been feeling like God is leading me back to Uganda. My plan at this point, unless Jesus has something else that's unforeseen by me, is to go back as a VIA (volunteer in action) like last time. However, unlike last time I won't be teaching at Heritage International School, my focus will be more on KIU (Kampala International University) ministries and marketing. There have been talks about a program with the orphans on Buvuma Island (where we have a church and a school) to get them sponsors and I would LOVE to be the person to help get that program up and running. I've been in talks with my field director (well former field director) in Uganda, who has been in talks with THE field director of Uganda and the regional director of WGM in Africa and they're discussing possibilities and options. I would really like to get back there by January and my thoughts are leaning towards a 2 year commitment at this point. Obviously I'm still waiting to hear back from the big bosses across the sea to hear their thoughts, but more and more I'm getting confirmation from the Lord through other people and through circumstances. He has covered me with a peace that I still don't understand and is preparing me even now for my time there. I'm asking for you guys to pray with me about this. There are still plenty of details to be worked out and then there's that little thing called a budget to work out and then I'll need to start raising support in an economy that screams, "keep everything you have!! Save your money!!"
Yikes. Raising support is a daunting task for me because it's so humbling. I've never been good at letting people give to me, but I know that in supporting me they're supporting my ministries and the works God has given me.
I long to be back in Uganda. It's strange to feel homesick for a place that I spent a short 11 months in, but I do. And it's such a real and strong feeling. My first trip was a breeze, in a sense... I was healthy (thanks be to God) and I did what Jesus asked me to do. Not that there weren't any struggles and not that there weren't times I was ready to throw in the towel and come home, but I have a feeling that this trip, whenever it is... is going to be a totally different experience. Pray, even now that I would adjust well, be healthy, and be able to jump right into serving the Lord in whatever capacity He allows me to.
Thanks to you all for your love! I love you all so much!! If you would, send me your address and email address to help me keep you updated on my progress as I move forward with these plans. My email is christina.maddalone@gmail.com.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
New Opportunites!
Once again I've let time slip away from me and it's been a few weeks since I've updated. Well I did indeed hang out with my friend Nick and it was refreshing to be able to talk face to face with someone I was with last year. Since that weekend I've been working and reconnecting with my church family. I'm still getting over this nasty sinus infection that I've had for two weeks. That's kinda been weighing me down and I've been trying to rest so that I can heal from it without going to the doctor.
I'm really excited for this weekend... I'll be heading down towards southern Illinois to visit with the Hopson family for the weekend!! They are a missionary family with WGM that were in Uganda while I was there. They are home on furlough, raising support and their home just happens to be close enough to my home to visit them. Their son, Austin was in my class this past year at Heritage. He's so fun!
Anyways, this past weekend I was asked to speak in my home church about my time in Uganda. I'd known about speaking for almost a month, but still didn't have anything formal prepared. So I decided that since I never have anything formal prepared in anything I do, why start now? :) Yes, that sounds irresponsible, but honestly I work so much better that way. I have no problems speaking to large crowds, especially when the topic is something I'm so passionate about. I played a slide show of my pictures and spoke for about 50 minutes straight. I really just asked the Lord to speak through me and to help the congregation have a better understanding of more of His creation. Of course God is faithful and everything went well. It was nice to finally get to stand up and talk, uninterrupted about my time in UG. It helped me process through some stuff better too. The Lord is faithful in getting His message across... it was cool. There were things that I knew I wanted people to hear... things the Lord taught me last year and there were things I knew I had to tell them about my ministries. I feel like God allowed me to successfully communicate everything. It felt like I was preaching a sermon part of the time and it was great! I'm really hoping to have more opportunities to speak in other churches.
My best friend and her husband and sister came out. My mom came too. I know it's hard for her to hear my heart about going back, but I think this helped give her a better idea of why I'm so passionate about it.
Oh! Something I'm excited about... I went to a pool party over the weekend and got to see some dear friends and supporters, Ben and Joy Thomas. Joy asked if I would come to a small group that meets at their and I of course agreed, but because of my schedule I won't be bale to go for a couple of weeks. BUT I got a message from her yesterday about us leading a group together at my old church! I'm so pumped about this because I love Joy, I love WSC, and I would love to partner with her in ministry there. Please be in prayer about my involvement at Wheatland Salem UMC and at Plano UMC.
Other cool stuff to look forward to... My other BFF is coming in from Seattle in a couple weeks and I'm pumped to see her! I'm going to a Cubs game with some very dear friends in a couple of weeks. AND I'm hoping to travel to Alabama to visit with Jade and Shelah while they are home for a month from Uganda! :)
As per my return to Uganda... it's in the works. Nothing has been decided at all and I have no time frame yet. At this point I'm excited about some new ministry opportunities there and I'm praying and asking the Lord to open those up to me if that's what He wants me to do next. I'm also praying about the different programs that World Gospel Mission offers and I'm very seriously thinking and praying about the MD program (http://www.wgm.org/Page.aspx?pid=1917). I'm also thinking about going back as a VIA (Volunteer in Action) again. Would you partner with me in prayer about these important decisions? Your prayer and support is necessary to my ministry. Thank you for being faithful and serving the Lord with me!
Here are some links to some albums I have on facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2051135&id=161500306&l=8cc1952faa
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2052041&id=161500306&l=a795e75648
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2053265&id=161500306&l=7e0e0cf4c5
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2054212&id=161500306&l=85ec51869b
I'm really excited for this weekend... I'll be heading down towards southern Illinois to visit with the Hopson family for the weekend!! They are a missionary family with WGM that were in Uganda while I was there. They are home on furlough, raising support and their home just happens to be close enough to my home to visit them. Their son, Austin was in my class this past year at Heritage. He's so fun!
Anyways, this past weekend I was asked to speak in my home church about my time in Uganda. I'd known about speaking for almost a month, but still didn't have anything formal prepared. So I decided that since I never have anything formal prepared in anything I do, why start now? :) Yes, that sounds irresponsible, but honestly I work so much better that way. I have no problems speaking to large crowds, especially when the topic is something I'm so passionate about. I played a slide show of my pictures and spoke for about 50 minutes straight. I really just asked the Lord to speak through me and to help the congregation have a better understanding of more of His creation. Of course God is faithful and everything went well. It was nice to finally get to stand up and talk, uninterrupted about my time in UG. It helped me process through some stuff better too. The Lord is faithful in getting His message across... it was cool. There were things that I knew I wanted people to hear... things the Lord taught me last year and there were things I knew I had to tell them about my ministries. I feel like God allowed me to successfully communicate everything. It felt like I was preaching a sermon part of the time and it was great! I'm really hoping to have more opportunities to speak in other churches.
My best friend and her husband and sister came out. My mom came too. I know it's hard for her to hear my heart about going back, but I think this helped give her a better idea of why I'm so passionate about it.
Oh! Something I'm excited about... I went to a pool party over the weekend and got to see some dear friends and supporters, Ben and Joy Thomas. Joy asked if I would come to a small group that meets at their and I of course agreed, but because of my schedule I won't be bale to go for a couple of weeks. BUT I got a message from her yesterday about us leading a group together at my old church! I'm so pumped about this because I love Joy, I love WSC, and I would love to partner with her in ministry there. Please be in prayer about my involvement at Wheatland Salem UMC and at Plano UMC.
Other cool stuff to look forward to... My other BFF is coming in from Seattle in a couple weeks and I'm pumped to see her! I'm going to a Cubs game with some very dear friends in a couple of weeks. AND I'm hoping to travel to Alabama to visit with Jade and Shelah while they are home for a month from Uganda! :)
As per my return to Uganda... it's in the works. Nothing has been decided at all and I have no time frame yet. At this point I'm excited about some new ministry opportunities there and I'm praying and asking the Lord to open those up to me if that's what He wants me to do next. I'm also praying about the different programs that World Gospel Mission offers and I'm very seriously thinking and praying about the MD program (http://www.wgm.org/Page.aspx?pid=1917). I'm also thinking about going back as a VIA (Volunteer in Action) again. Would you partner with me in prayer about these important decisions? Your prayer and support is necessary to my ministry. Thank you for being faithful and serving the Lord with me!
Here are some links to some albums I have on facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2051135&id=161500306&l=8cc1952faa
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2052041&id=161500306&l=a795e75648
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2053265&id=161500306&l=7e0e0cf4c5
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2054212&id=161500306&l=85ec51869b
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
New baby, old friends, and Jesus
I got home from Florida a week ago, but the next morning I left for Indy. Being in Florida was great and just what I needed. I finally got to meet my bff, Stacy's baby, Owen. I love my nieces to death, but it's real cool to have a nephew to spoil now too! We had a good week hanging out, playing with the baby, spending some time at the beach, and having good conversations. I always enjoy the time I have with Stacy and Jeff and I can't wait til we get to hang out again.
After getting home from Florida, I went to Indianapolis for a while to visit with Trent. Going to visit Trent is always a good time. We just hung out and caught up. I finally got to see Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, which I thoroughly enjoyed of course. Also one of my favorite things we did was hang out with Drew! Drew is our friend from college, but before that he was one of Trent's youth kids. Neither of us had seen or really been in much contact with Drew in about 3 years because he moved to Arkansas in 2006. It was real cool to get back in contact with him and spend Sunday afternoon hanging out. I'm hoping that I'll get to see him a few more times while he's in Indiana for the summer.
I left Indy early evening on Sunday so it was a nice drive home, not TOO much traffic, and the perfect weather... no air conditioning needed. By the time I was in the home stretch, I was tired of driving, tired of sitting, and just plain tired. The nice part about a drive like that is the time to just hang out with the Lord, no interruptions. So I spent some time in prayer, presenting my needs/wants/desires before the Lord, lifting others up, and praising Him for being my Father. As I prayed and talk with God a peace fell over me and all I could do was smile, knowing that God was taking care of every part of my life. Most of you know that I want nothing more than to be back in Uganda right now and as you can imagine, God knows more than anyone how badly I want it! Since I've been home there have been a few things holding me back from really looking into going back, but as I sat before the Lord and reflected on the month home, and the year away I knew that I need not worry anymore. I'm so excited to feel free from the things that have been holding me back.
Anyways the whole point of this story is this... I decided to take a different way home to avoid monotony and as the road turned westward instead of north I got to see the most beautiful sunset I've seen since being in Uganda. The sunset drew my attention, but a cloud held it. I'm not one of those people that can see shapes in clouds real easily. Like if I'm looking at the clouds with someone and they say, "aw, cool... see that heart?" I can never see the heart, but I say I can see it. :) So as I'm driving, captured by the presence of the Lord and looking at the sunset, one of the only clouds around was clearly in the shape of a cross. Not only was it a cross, but it was a cross in use. It was Jesus on the cross and it was God reminding me of all of the things He can handle and I cannot. I watched the cloud for a half hour as it took other shapes, but eventually right before it completely dissipated it became the shape of an angel. I knew without a doubt that it was an angel and seeing as though I normally can't even see a simple shape like a heart, I knew that God was allowing me to see it. The whole time I was gazing silently at the cloud beautiful songs of worship were playing over the radio. It was such a sweet time with Jesus.
So, now I'm home and I'm back to work. I'm actually looking for another job because I have too many bills to try and pay off. Maybe I'll work two jobs. Who knows, but I know I want to get back to Uganda ASAP and I know that I have school loans looming over me every second.
I get to hang out with Nick Strong this weekend, which is really exciting. He was in Uganda during the same time that I was. It'll be nice to chat with someone who personally knows all the stuff I'm talking about with Africa. :)
Would you be in prayer with me about my finances and my future? Please continue praying for my friends and family here and across the globe. Many people are having rough times right now trying to deal with life and all that comes with it.
Also please continue to remember Lino and family in your prayers as he will be traveling (Sudan). Pray for his safety and PLEASE pray for his health. Tomorrow is his birthday and I'm really sad to not be celebrating with him... in general I'm missing everything about Uganda. Prayer for that would be great.
Love you all!
After getting home from Florida, I went to Indianapolis for a while to visit with Trent. Going to visit Trent is always a good time. We just hung out and caught up. I finally got to see Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, which I thoroughly enjoyed of course. Also one of my favorite things we did was hang out with Drew! Drew is our friend from college, but before that he was one of Trent's youth kids. Neither of us had seen or really been in much contact with Drew in about 3 years because he moved to Arkansas in 2006. It was real cool to get back in contact with him and spend Sunday afternoon hanging out. I'm hoping that I'll get to see him a few more times while he's in Indiana for the summer.
I left Indy early evening on Sunday so it was a nice drive home, not TOO much traffic, and the perfect weather... no air conditioning needed. By the time I was in the home stretch, I was tired of driving, tired of sitting, and just plain tired. The nice part about a drive like that is the time to just hang out with the Lord, no interruptions. So I spent some time in prayer, presenting my needs/wants/desires before the Lord, lifting others up, and praising Him for being my Father. As I prayed and talk with God a peace fell over me and all I could do was smile, knowing that God was taking care of every part of my life. Most of you know that I want nothing more than to be back in Uganda right now and as you can imagine, God knows more than anyone how badly I want it! Since I've been home there have been a few things holding me back from really looking into going back, but as I sat before the Lord and reflected on the month home, and the year away I knew that I need not worry anymore. I'm so excited to feel free from the things that have been holding me back.
Anyways the whole point of this story is this... I decided to take a different way home to avoid monotony and as the road turned westward instead of north I got to see the most beautiful sunset I've seen since being in Uganda. The sunset drew my attention, but a cloud held it. I'm not one of those people that can see shapes in clouds real easily. Like if I'm looking at the clouds with someone and they say, "aw, cool... see that heart?" I can never see the heart, but I say I can see it. :) So as I'm driving, captured by the presence of the Lord and looking at the sunset, one of the only clouds around was clearly in the shape of a cross. Not only was it a cross, but it was a cross in use. It was Jesus on the cross and it was God reminding me of all of the things He can handle and I cannot. I watched the cloud for a half hour as it took other shapes, but eventually right before it completely dissipated it became the shape of an angel. I knew without a doubt that it was an angel and seeing as though I normally can't even see a simple shape like a heart, I knew that God was allowing me to see it. The whole time I was gazing silently at the cloud beautiful songs of worship were playing over the radio. It was such a sweet time with Jesus.
So, now I'm home and I'm back to work. I'm actually looking for another job because I have too many bills to try and pay off. Maybe I'll work two jobs. Who knows, but I know I want to get back to Uganda ASAP and I know that I have school loans looming over me every second.
I get to hang out with Nick Strong this weekend, which is really exciting. He was in Uganda during the same time that I was. It'll be nice to chat with someone who personally knows all the stuff I'm talking about with Africa. :)
Would you be in prayer with me about my finances and my future? Please continue praying for my friends and family here and across the globe. Many people are having rough times right now trying to deal with life and all that comes with it.
Also please continue to remember Lino and family in your prayers as he will be traveling (Sudan). Pray for his safety and PLEASE pray for his health. Tomorrow is his birthday and I'm really sad to not be celebrating with him... in general I'm missing everything about Uganda. Prayer for that would be great.
Love you all!
Hotness!
This is dedicated to my dear friend Meki. She's like the coolest person ever! I miss you, Meki!! Told you I would have a blog devoted just to you! You're beautiful and I'm praying for you!! :)
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Reasons I miss Africa
I got this list from another missionary on facebook, but most of these make me smile as I imagine being back in Uganda. :) Enjoy... this'll give you an idea of what "home" was for me last year.
You know you're from Africa when...
...it doesn't seem right to pay the asking price on anything in a store. If you can't barter for it, it's not worth having.
...you're appalled that American grocery stores only sell one or two different types of bananas.
...your parents yell at you for forgetting to use silverware in public.
...you're going to visit your friends and take you passport ~ just in case you have to evacuate.
...you find all the non-white people in town so you can be a minority again.
...you can lead a 20 minute conversation starting with "Jambo!!" and keep it going by replying "ehh" in numerous different tone-levels for the next half an hour! (...and have the other person exactly understand what you are saying!!)
...you fear for you life while riding in a Matatu....anywhere!
...you'd rather be barefoot.
...every toothpaste is colgate.
...every softdrink is coca cola or fanta.
...you have uncles and aunts who are younger than you.
...black outs are nothing new to you.
...no running water for a day is just another ordinary thing
...40 degrees is freezing!
...four cars are driving parallel to each other on a one-lane road.
...The smell of freshly rained on mud paths/tarmac is comforting.
...being an hour late equals being "on time"
...you get car sick cuz the roads just can't have enough potholes!
... you pass by someones house and you know what they gonna have for dinner cuz u can pretty much see and/or smell what's cooking
...you can bribe a cop and get away with it!
...you have an overwhelming urge to wash all your salad in bleach water
...You know that the police isn't always the safest place to go when you're in trouble.
...Cramming 7 passangers in a 4 passenger taxi is really not a big deal.
...you know never to question what you're eating (even if it does taste good), cuz sometimes you just don't want to know.
...you invite people for a get together at 7 and they all come at 9.
...football is played with some sort of ROUND ball and WITHOUT hands.
...everyone in your country plays soccer.
...you make friends with the local shepard and know the goats by name.
...carry purell like it's your life supply.
...you spent countless hours shining your shoes when u know very well that by the time you get to the taxi stop, they'll be covered in unbeleivable dirt!
...you keep converting the value of things in your home currency when u see the dollar value.
...a plane flies by and you just cant help but look up!
... you have another name in your home language.
... you hate American corn, because it's never hard enough.
...you remember being so confused about how you could pay for something with a visa.
... you have put Vaseline in your hair to be like your African friends..and your Mom has to take it out with OMO and Kerosene!
...you expect people to tell you they're fine before you ask them
...you used to shower under the rain.
...someone is riding their bike down the road with corrugated iron strapped width wise across the back of the bike and its taking up more than half of the road.
...you miss rain on a corrugated iron roof; it's so loud you have to shout to be heard.
...you've been proposed to while walking down the street (if you're a girl, that is)
...you know what true hospitality and generosity is...when those who have almost nothing still welcome you in with open arms and are willing to share everything they have with you - even though they barely know you!
...someone asks you how much your sister costs.
...your brother tries to sell you to his college roommate for 36 cows or goats...
...You unwrap all your gifts carefully, so that you can reuse the wrapper.
...more than 90% of the music CD's and cassettes in your home are illegal copies.
...you have almost always carry overweight baggage when traveling by plane.
...Nobody in your family informs you that they are coming over for a visit.
...You only make telephone calls at a cheaper rate at night
...You never have less than 20 people to meet you at the airport or see you off even if it is a local flight.
...you learn the native words for "white person" everywhere you go, because you hear it shouted everywhere you go.
...something that would normally take half an hour in the Western world takes a few days or weeks...and if it didn't it just wouldn't be fun.
...you find it completely natural to have burglar-bars outside your windows
...you bought your cellphone through your car window
...chicken is a luxury
...you wonder why there aren't any herds of cows and goats walking down the street in North America
...you can smell the rain before it comes
...you can look up at the sky and see every star clearly
...the sunset is something to look forward to
...the only thing you throw away is avacado stones, and even then you wonder if you should save them and plant a tree
...every white thing you own has permently turned a curious shade of orange
...everywhere you walk children run up to you shouting, 'how are you! how are you, how are you?' mzungu! mzungu!
...You spend as little time as possible in the toilet, and can hold your breath for amazing lengths of time.
...you always drink your drink straight away in front of the shop, and give them the bottle back.
...you spray 'Doom' in your tent before going to bed.
you´re NOT in Africa and you miss everything everybody else mentioned so much it hurts.
...you dream about Africa - a lot.
....you think of giving up trying to convince people of what it´s really like - even though they really do try, they often just don't understand.
... you expect to be able to buy roast corn, fried meat or fish, boiled yams or cassava etc whilst you are travelling on public transport.
...having mud-orange feet is normal.
...instead of being greeted with "good morning", you're greeted with "Are you awake?"
...the rain back "home" feels cold.
...you go away on holiday and come back, and the people ask you: "Are you back?"
...you get the songs from the celltel and pepsi adverts stuck in your head
...you learn quickly that pedestrians DO NOT have the right-of-way
...you realize that after leaving africa you can never have another piece of fruit that will ever taste as good as it does there
...you can buy anything you like at traffic lights, from fruit to hangers to kitchen knifes.
...your 'guard dogs' were the most lovable pets ever
...you prefer music that's slightly out of tune
...b.o. is a comforting smell
...you reuse plastic throwaways
...$2 is too much for a t-shirt
...the smell of an old, smoky diesel engine makes you smile and long for 'home'
...pop comes in glass bottles
...you aren't surprised when you have to stop the car to let three giraffes finish crossing the highway in front of you
...you buy your milk in a triangular carboard container from a hut on the side of the road
...you know the profound and tangible silence of dawn on the Masai Mara
...you know that an umbrella is useless during the rainy season and simply accept the fact that you'll be wet for 3 months... and really don't mind either.
...you've seen a sky so blue you could cry, with thick, perfect white clouds you can almost taste
...people bump into the car in front, check out the damage, hand over some money (maybe!) and then drive off!
...you think nothing of driving down a road that has potholes bigger than anything!
...you get culture shock in a grocery store, when you see the shelves completely stocked with 15 different kinds of whatever!
...you're an expert at packing bags and people into cars . . . and making everything fit!!!
...When there's no electricity, you're in bed by dark and up at sunrise.
...you buy a movie on the street, get home and watch it, and realize that you can hear the person chomping on their popcorn in the theatre...
...you're sure your going to die 9 times in a 5 minute minibus trip
...You remeber the smell of the first rain signaling the end of the dry season
...you hand in your glass bottle of fizzy soft drink back to the shop keeper for recycling just to get your deposit back
...you just can't explain the concept of snow.
...your bed back in north america doesn't seem right without a mosquito net
...when you try to convince your friends and family that it actually is a lot more logical and easier to transport things on your head
...Milo is your favorite drink
...everyone is family
...you wonder where all the elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and other animals are while your driving down the high way
...pop a squat has a whole new meaning
...when a baboon has taken your food right out of your hand.
...you dreaming of a red/orange/green Christmas instead of a white one...you know what TIA means.
...tears well up in your eyes as you read this list, either wishing that you were back in Africa or glad that you are still there...
You know you're from Africa when...
...it doesn't seem right to pay the asking price on anything in a store. If you can't barter for it, it's not worth having.
...you're appalled that American grocery stores only sell one or two different types of bananas.
...your parents yell at you for forgetting to use silverware in public.
...you're going to visit your friends and take you passport ~ just in case you have to evacuate.
...you find all the non-white people in town so you can be a minority again.
...you can lead a 20 minute conversation starting with "Jambo!!" and keep it going by replying "ehh" in numerous different tone-levels for the next half an hour! (...and have the other person exactly understand what you are saying!!)
...you fear for you life while riding in a Matatu....anywhere!
...you'd rather be barefoot.
...every toothpaste is colgate.
...every softdrink is coca cola or fanta.
...you have uncles and aunts who are younger than you.
...black outs are nothing new to you.
...no running water for a day is just another ordinary thing
...40 degrees is freezing!
...four cars are driving parallel to each other on a one-lane road.
...The smell of freshly rained on mud paths/tarmac is comforting.
...being an hour late equals being "on time"
...you get car sick cuz the roads just can't have enough potholes!
... you pass by someones house and you know what they gonna have for dinner cuz u can pretty much see and/or smell what's cooking
...you can bribe a cop and get away with it!
...you have an overwhelming urge to wash all your salad in bleach water
...You know that the police isn't always the safest place to go when you're in trouble.
...Cramming 7 passangers in a 4 passenger taxi is really not a big deal.
...you know never to question what you're eating (even if it does taste good), cuz sometimes you just don't want to know.
...you invite people for a get together at 7 and they all come at 9.
...football is played with some sort of ROUND ball and WITHOUT hands.
...everyone in your country plays soccer.
...you make friends with the local shepard and know the goats by name.
...carry purell like it's your life supply.
...you spent countless hours shining your shoes when u know very well that by the time you get to the taxi stop, they'll be covered in unbeleivable dirt!
...you keep converting the value of things in your home currency when u see the dollar value.
...a plane flies by and you just cant help but look up!
... you have another name in your home language.
... you hate American corn, because it's never hard enough.
...you remember being so confused about how you could pay for something with a visa.
... you have put Vaseline in your hair to be like your African friends..and your Mom has to take it out with OMO and Kerosene!
...you expect people to tell you they're fine before you ask them
...you used to shower under the rain.
...someone is riding their bike down the road with corrugated iron strapped width wise across the back of the bike and its taking up more than half of the road.
...you miss rain on a corrugated iron roof; it's so loud you have to shout to be heard.
...you've been proposed to while walking down the street (if you're a girl, that is)
...you know what true hospitality and generosity is...when those who have almost nothing still welcome you in with open arms and are willing to share everything they have with you - even though they barely know you!
...someone asks you how much your sister costs.
...your brother tries to sell you to his college roommate for 36 cows or goats...
...You unwrap all your gifts carefully, so that you can reuse the wrapper.
...more than 90% of the music CD's and cassettes in your home are illegal copies.
...you have almost always carry overweight baggage when traveling by plane.
...Nobody in your family informs you that they are coming over for a visit.
...You only make telephone calls at a cheaper rate at night
...You never have less than 20 people to meet you at the airport or see you off even if it is a local flight.
...you learn the native words for "white person" everywhere you go, because you hear it shouted everywhere you go.
...something that would normally take half an hour in the Western world takes a few days or weeks...and if it didn't it just wouldn't be fun.
...you find it completely natural to have burglar-bars outside your windows
...you bought your cellphone through your car window
...chicken is a luxury
...you wonder why there aren't any herds of cows and goats walking down the street in North America
...you can smell the rain before it comes
...you can look up at the sky and see every star clearly
...the sunset is something to look forward to
...the only thing you throw away is avacado stones, and even then you wonder if you should save them and plant a tree
...every white thing you own has permently turned a curious shade of orange
...everywhere you walk children run up to you shouting, 'how are you! how are you, how are you?' mzungu! mzungu!
...You spend as little time as possible in the toilet, and can hold your breath for amazing lengths of time.
...you always drink your drink straight away in front of the shop, and give them the bottle back.
...you spray 'Doom' in your tent before going to bed.
you´re NOT in Africa and you miss everything everybody else mentioned so much it hurts.
...you dream about Africa - a lot.
....you think of giving up trying to convince people of what it´s really like - even though they really do try, they often just don't understand.
... you expect to be able to buy roast corn, fried meat or fish, boiled yams or cassava etc whilst you are travelling on public transport.
...having mud-orange feet is normal.
...instead of being greeted with "good morning", you're greeted with "Are you awake?"
...the rain back "home" feels cold.
...you go away on holiday and come back, and the people ask you: "Are you back?"
...you get the songs from the celltel and pepsi adverts stuck in your head
...you learn quickly that pedestrians DO NOT have the right-of-way
...you realize that after leaving africa you can never have another piece of fruit that will ever taste as good as it does there
...you can buy anything you like at traffic lights, from fruit to hangers to kitchen knifes.
...your 'guard dogs' were the most lovable pets ever
...you prefer music that's slightly out of tune
...b.o. is a comforting smell
...you reuse plastic throwaways
...$2 is too much for a t-shirt
...the smell of an old, smoky diesel engine makes you smile and long for 'home'
...pop comes in glass bottles
...you aren't surprised when you have to stop the car to let three giraffes finish crossing the highway in front of you
...you buy your milk in a triangular carboard container from a hut on the side of the road
...you know the profound and tangible silence of dawn on the Masai Mara
...you know that an umbrella is useless during the rainy season and simply accept the fact that you'll be wet for 3 months... and really don't mind either.
...you've seen a sky so blue you could cry, with thick, perfect white clouds you can almost taste
...people bump into the car in front, check out the damage, hand over some money (maybe!) and then drive off!
...you think nothing of driving down a road that has potholes bigger than anything!
...you get culture shock in a grocery store, when you see the shelves completely stocked with 15 different kinds of whatever!
...you're an expert at packing bags and people into cars . . . and making everything fit!!!
...When there's no electricity, you're in bed by dark and up at sunrise.
...you buy a movie on the street, get home and watch it, and realize that you can hear the person chomping on their popcorn in the theatre...
...you're sure your going to die 9 times in a 5 minute minibus trip
...You remeber the smell of the first rain signaling the end of the dry season
...you hand in your glass bottle of fizzy soft drink back to the shop keeper for recycling just to get your deposit back
...you just can't explain the concept of snow.
...your bed back in north america doesn't seem right without a mosquito net
...when you try to convince your friends and family that it actually is a lot more logical and easier to transport things on your head
...Milo is your favorite drink
...everyone is family
...you wonder where all the elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and other animals are while your driving down the high way
...pop a squat has a whole new meaning
...when a baboon has taken your food right out of your hand.
...you dreaming of a red/orange/green Christmas instead of a white one...you know what TIA means.
...tears well up in your eyes as you read this list, either wishing that you were back in Africa or glad that you are still there...
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