I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter! To be honest, I was asleep for most of it. Those sunrise services take a lot out of you, you know?
You should have all received your letters by now. Furthermore, if you go to a UB Church, your pastor/mission director also received one. Since then, a few things have changed. I'm still moving to Greenwood at the end of June, but the training will now encompass the entire month of July, so that should be an interesting experience. Several people have sent in donations, so the total needed at this point is below $4000. My church has been incredibly amazing and generous in this process, both individuals and as a whole. I can't thank them enough for their support these past few months.
I'll be posting more regularly as time goes on, so be sure to check back in. Also, if you'd like to be put on a particular missionary's update list, let me know.
Enjoy the sunshine!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Friday, March 5, 2010
To those of you who understood anything from the last post: Bravo! You're definitely in the minority. :) I think it's one of those cases where I knew what I wanted to say, but said it all at once and in no particular order. Ah, well. Such is an example of how my writing is going these days. I'm never quite sure what is going to come out.
My e-mail inbox is finally showing that there are no new messages, so for the moment, I'm left with only a few things left to do. I've been working for the Census Bureau, which has turned out to be the quintessential government program. Half the time, I think they are making it up as they go along, and the other half is spent twiddling my thumbs waiting for them to give me something to do. But, I am meeting new people and finding out some things about my community that I never knew before, so I suppose it will all balance out in the end.
Otherwise, I continue at Hallmark and with activities at my church. We had four kids accept Christ on Wednesday night, which is incredible, because sometimes I think they aren't even listening to what we tell them. It just shows that we can never really know the influence we are having on someone.
I had the opportunity to speak to a couple new groups, both very rewarding experiences with lots of good questions asked. At one, there were several former missionaries present, so I was able to get some good advice about traveling in foreign countries and gathering information. As the time gets closer, I alternate between feelings of excitement and feelings of extreme doubt. But if I really believe God is in control (and I have to, because what other alternative is there?), then I know everything will work out for the good.
We were discussing Logos in Bible study the other day, so I'd like to leave you with this thought.
Remember: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Logos = Word = Christ
10 As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
11 so is my WORD that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55: 10-11
My e-mail inbox is finally showing that there are no new messages, so for the moment, I'm left with only a few things left to do. I've been working for the Census Bureau, which has turned out to be the quintessential government program. Half the time, I think they are making it up as they go along, and the other half is spent twiddling my thumbs waiting for them to give me something to do. But, I am meeting new people and finding out some things about my community that I never knew before, so I suppose it will all balance out in the end.
Otherwise, I continue at Hallmark and with activities at my church. We had four kids accept Christ on Wednesday night, which is incredible, because sometimes I think they aren't even listening to what we tell them. It just shows that we can never really know the influence we are having on someone.
I had the opportunity to speak to a couple new groups, both very rewarding experiences with lots of good questions asked. At one, there were several former missionaries present, so I was able to get some good advice about traveling in foreign countries and gathering information. As the time gets closer, I alternate between feelings of excitement and feelings of extreme doubt. But if I really believe God is in control (and I have to, because what other alternative is there?), then I know everything will work out for the good.
We were discussing Logos in Bible study the other day, so I'd like to leave you with this thought.
Remember: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Logos = Word = Christ
10 As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
11 so is my WORD that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55: 10-11
Thursday, February 18, 2010
My Sunday School class has been reading unChristian: What a New Generation Really Thinks About Christianity...and Why It Matters by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons. We finished it this past Sunday, giving me the opportunity to reflect on the book as a whole. There are six essential points: that 'outsiders' see Christians as too hypocritical, too focused on the get saved mentality, antihomosexual, too sheltered, too political, and too judgmental. For the most part, I agreed that Christianity does seem to have a bad rap in society today, though I'm not sure how much of that is our fault, and how much of it can be ascribed to other forces.
What really gave me food for thought, though, was the final pages in which the authors printed responses from several notable Christian public figures on the question of where they saw the Church and the Christian image in thirty years. It wasn't something I'd considered before. Like many who have grown up in the church, I have lived in a fairly safe bubble. Not a great deal has changed within that bubble in the past few years, and though I can see a general decline in people's views of Christianity, it has yet to affect me in a major way. Despite that, however, I can say with all honesty that I would hate to be someone's example of what it means to be a Christian.
Anyway, I was thinking about where Christianity might be in thirty years, and I started thinking about where we were thirty years ago. Did anyone expect the changes we've seen from 1980 until now? I don't think anyone could have predicted any of what we've experienced since then.
I don't really have a point with this, I guess, except to recommend that you read the book for yourselves and tell me what you think.
Next book: Answering Islam by Norman Geisler
What really gave me food for thought, though, was the final pages in which the authors printed responses from several notable Christian public figures on the question of where they saw the Church and the Christian image in thirty years. It wasn't something I'd considered before. Like many who have grown up in the church, I have lived in a fairly safe bubble. Not a great deal has changed within that bubble in the past few years, and though I can see a general decline in people's views of Christianity, it has yet to affect me in a major way. Despite that, however, I can say with all honesty that I would hate to be someone's example of what it means to be a Christian.
Anyway, I was thinking about where Christianity might be in thirty years, and I started thinking about where we were thirty years ago. Did anyone expect the changes we've seen from 1980 until now? I don't think anyone could have predicted any of what we've experienced since then.
I don't really have a point with this, I guess, except to recommend that you read the book for yourselves and tell me what you think.
Next book: Answering Islam by Norman Geisler
Monday, February 1, 2010
This is what happens when I don't update more frequently.
I have too much to tell you, and not enough time to give a proper accounting. These past few weeks have been incredibly busy, both with my work at Hallmark, and especially with my new job.
Yes, you read correctly. I am officially a government employee now, working the 2010 Census. It's a time-consuming job, and I have a suitcase full of forms and manuals that I have to refer to every ten minutes, but it's fascinating work, and I'm enjoying the opportunity to get to know more about my community. My floor isn't faring well under the strain, but I've promised my mother that I'll get it clean at some point in the undetermined future.
Next bit of news - I may be in Greenwood earlier than I thought. This is privileged information, so I don't know what will come of it, but there is a chance that I'll be able to get started on things without having my full support raised. Things are happening in this world, and we can't really wait any longer to get the word out. This has caused some reshuffling and has prompted a lot of prayer, as I don't know what this will entail. Whatever happens, I'm thinking I'll definitely be attending CROSS-training in July and take my first trip before the year is out. Praise God!
Otherwise, things are going well. I had to buy a new calendar the other day so I could keep track of everything and know where I have to be. I have another meeting tonight, but before I'm out the door, I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has been so supportive of me. You are all wonderful, and I can't express enough gratitude for all you've done. As I've been doing quite frequently lately, I'll let Paul explain it for me.
Philippians 4:10-20
I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. You sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
20To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
I have too much to tell you, and not enough time to give a proper accounting. These past few weeks have been incredibly busy, both with my work at Hallmark, and especially with my new job.
Yes, you read correctly. I am officially a government employee now, working the 2010 Census. It's a time-consuming job, and I have a suitcase full of forms and manuals that I have to refer to every ten minutes, but it's fascinating work, and I'm enjoying the opportunity to get to know more about my community. My floor isn't faring well under the strain, but I've promised my mother that I'll get it clean at some point in the undetermined future.
Next bit of news - I may be in Greenwood earlier than I thought. This is privileged information, so I don't know what will come of it, but there is a chance that I'll be able to get started on things without having my full support raised. Things are happening in this world, and we can't really wait any longer to get the word out. This has caused some reshuffling and has prompted a lot of prayer, as I don't know what this will entail. Whatever happens, I'm thinking I'll definitely be attending CROSS-training in July and take my first trip before the year is out. Praise God!
Otherwise, things are going well. I had to buy a new calendar the other day so I could keep track of everything and know where I have to be. I have another meeting tonight, but before I'm out the door, I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has been so supportive of me. You are all wonderful, and I can't express enough gratitude for all you've done. As I've been doing quite frequently lately, I'll let Paul explain it for me.
Philippians 4:10-20
I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. You sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
20To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
New Year = ?
Happy belated New Year!
Don't you hate when you have a whole thing planned about what you're going to write, and then you go off to work or shopping, and you come back and can't remember it?
Me, too.
So, what have I been up to lately? Well, the production of The Twelve Voice of Christmas that we did at my church went really well. I've been studying more about Mary since that night, and I have to say, she's an inspiring lady. I'm thinking of starting a(nother) book. That would make seven in the works. I really need to finish one someday.
Christmas was pretty good when you don't think about the kidney stone I had, the lack of family I visited, and the hours I worked. BUT, to counteract that, I was on vicodin for a few days, I saw my family after Christmas, and I get paid by the hour. So I guess everything worked out in the end.
In case you haven't remembered, 2010 is a census year, and I applied a couple of weeks ago to be an enumerator. As it turns out, I may get an even better job, so be praying that it works out. Hallmark is being very supportive about giving me time off to train. The census job is a short one, but I could really use the extra money.
In other news, my birthday is on Saturday. I have received many lovely birthday cards from people, and I think it's going to be a good day. If only I could stop feeling so old...
My parents are currently in Honduras winding down General Conference for the UB Church. I may be working on a project related to that when they get back, about which I'm very excited.
If it sounds like I'm pretty busy now, I am, which is good, because I hate sitting around the house with nothing to do. That's probably why this blog never gets updated. I'm never in one place long enough. But this is my break between work and teaching the kiddies at church tonight, so I'm making the most of it.
I hope you all received your New Year's card and update from me. If you didn't, let me know so I can get you on my list.
Sh'ma Yis'ra'eil Adonai Eloheinu Adonai echad.
Don't you hate when you have a whole thing planned about what you're going to write, and then you go off to work or shopping, and you come back and can't remember it?
Me, too.
So, what have I been up to lately? Well, the production of The Twelve Voice of Christmas that we did at my church went really well. I've been studying more about Mary since that night, and I have to say, she's an inspiring lady. I'm thinking of starting a(nother) book. That would make seven in the works. I really need to finish one someday.
Christmas was pretty good when you don't think about the kidney stone I had, the lack of family I visited, and the hours I worked. BUT, to counteract that, I was on vicodin for a few days, I saw my family after Christmas, and I get paid by the hour. So I guess everything worked out in the end.
In case you haven't remembered, 2010 is a census year, and I applied a couple of weeks ago to be an enumerator. As it turns out, I may get an even better job, so be praying that it works out. Hallmark is being very supportive about giving me time off to train. The census job is a short one, but I could really use the extra money.
In other news, my birthday is on Saturday. I have received many lovely birthday cards from people, and I think it's going to be a good day. If only I could stop feeling so old...
My parents are currently in Honduras winding down General Conference for the UB Church. I may be working on a project related to that when they get back, about which I'm very excited.
If it sounds like I'm pretty busy now, I am, which is good, because I hate sitting around the house with nothing to do. That's probably why this blog never gets updated. I'm never in one place long enough. But this is my break between work and teaching the kiddies at church tonight, so I'm making the most of it.
I hope you all received your New Year's card and update from me. If you didn't, let me know so I can get you on my list.
Sh'ma Yis'ra'eil Adonai Eloheinu Adonai echad.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Luke 1
26In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you."
29Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.31You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.32He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."
34"How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?"
35The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be calledc]" style="font-size: 0.75em; line-height: 0.5em; ">[c] the Son of God. 36Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. 37For nothing is impossible with God."
38"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her.
I've been thinking a lot about Mary lately. The Bible doesn't give a lot of commentary on what was going through her mind, but if I had to hazard a guess, I'd say she was more than a little freaked out. I'm playing Mary in our church's Christmas production called The Twelve Voices of Christmas. Mary is the voice of wonder, and as I read more about her, I have to say I agree with the assessment. Having never been pregnant, I can't understand all of it, but what I do get makes me admire her all the more. I like that she didn't protest, just wondered at the mechanics of it and then said "Okay, God, I trust that you know what you're doing."
Kinda puts things in perspective...
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
I've been on an internet fast.
Before you praise/chastise me, know this: it wasn't entirely by choice. The internet at the house was down, and I decided to see if it was possible to live without the world wide web. Surprisingly, it is, but I'm not going to tell you it was easy. I can't tell you how many times I went to Google something only to remember I couldn't.
Quite a bit has happened over the last month. As a result of a meeting with Global Ministries staff and two fellow missionaries in early November, I have created an Advocacy/Support/Friend group comprised of six people, each of whom has played a role along the journey to this point. They are all good at giving me their opinions and advice and ideas, and though we haven't really decided what this will mean in the long run, they are all incredibly supportive.
I spoke at two different churches this month. On November 8, I was at Victory Chapel in Liberty Center, OH and on November 15, I was at Stryker UB in Stryker, OH. It was nice to be back in my home state, and especially lovely to speak with several people I've known since I was much younger.
I am pleased to report that as a result of some very generous donations, I have reached 50% of my needed support. In July 2010, I will be able to attend CROSS-Training at OMS - three weeks of field prep and seminars. I'm praying that I will be ready to move into the compound at Greenwood soon after, and begin traveling.
I am excited to see what the next year brings. I pray that when the time comes, I am ready.
Shalom.
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