Geocaching Milestone

If you want to know more about this new crazy addiction of ours, there's a simple You Tube explanation at www.geocaching.com.

Coffee

Here I sit, at the diningroom table, staring mindlessly at the zinnias in the foreground and the woods beyond...about to journal, read the Word, and then ready for a few hours at work. The world is still and calm...for the moment.

As I sip my coffee, I smile at the thought of Sweet Sue.

Sue was here for a bit on Saturday (we had not been together since end of June - that summarizes my summer - Sue is one of my absolute joys) and I enticed her to stay by offering a fresh cup of coffee. I was readying for Homecoming photos and making cookies to serve the kids, and Sue was ready to run some errands on her way home, but a cup of Caribou straight from the Keurig will lure ANY coffee drinker to stay a few more minutes. Anyhow, Sue made some comment about half and half...something like... people might *say* they love their coffee, but if you don't have half and half on hand... you're just not a real connoisseur. Ha. The intent was not that black coffee is not a *real* delight, but that if you add cream... it must be half and half. She went on to tell me of recent experiences in homes with skim milk and with evaporated milk...

Sue and I are serious about our coffee.

And so, this morning, as I stirred in my half and half, a smile spread across my face. Times with friends... priceless, aren't they?

Hello Autumn

This morning after depositing our two youngest at high school and my sister at the airport to return to Vancouver, Canada, I decided to treat myself to a Starbucks Latte. And guess what?! Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back. WOO HOO. It doesn't take a lot to make my morning. (the photo is actually a latte from Alterra at the lakefront, where one can admire the foam art...)

I have fallen off the blogging boat since returning from Paris. Maybe real life isn't as fun to report on. Or maybe 2010 has turned out to be the fullest year of my life with little time for blogging. Or maybe both.

Phoenix in February, Paris in April, New York in July, Columbus in July, and a dozen day or overnight trips to Little Towns, Wisconsin in between. Whirlwind. Wonderful.

I'm going to say I've been too busy enjoying life to write about it. But then, my journal is bursting... so I am writing. Maybe the issue is that I prefer pen and paper to computer keyboard, especially after being attached to my computer all day at work. Maybe the issue is that I've had all four kids around a lot this summer. Or maybe, could it be, that I'm older than I used to be? For whatever reason, I tend to go into a coma earlier each evening than I used to.

Anyhow, please know that I'm contemplating blogging. I'll start slow. Little blogs. Baby steps.

My sister and I spent last week end in Door County, geocaching. What a FABULOUS thing to shape the week end for two sisters who have extremely very little in common. We had a blast. I took this photo in Peninsula State Park on a trail I had never been on before. Haunting, isn't it? I love nature, I'm getting into hiking, and geocaching is hiking with a purpose. This is very good for me - physical strengthening, and a complete and total escape. More on that later. For now, the coma is setting in, so it's time for sweet dreams. Good night.

Geocaching

For our twenty fifth wedding anniversary, I needed to find a good gift for Frank. Since he doesn't really have a hobby, yet he loves keeping log books of trip mileage and stops, and since he loves the outdoors, I decided to get him the equipment to geocache. It is the perfect sport for him.

Bought the Garmin Oregon 450, a Moleskine log book, a laminated Wisconsin map, and The Complete Idiot's Guide to Geocaching. Wrapped it all up. He was surprised and delighted.

Geocaching is like a treasure hunt. You use Global Positioning Signals to locate a "cache," a hidden treasure. The website is www.geocaching.com.

We signed up. We downloaded some caches from the web site to the Garmin, and we were off.

And I'm hooked. Totally hooked. I did not need a new hobby. At all. But I am the one hooked. I am the one who has read the book and crawled the web site. It's so ridiculous.

Frank went on a business trip to Pennsylvania tonight. I persuaded him to take the Garmin and the Idiot Guide. He can find caches near him on the web, upload them, and score a cache or two in Pennsylvania. He wasn't convinced that he wanted to add that to a business trip. I coaxed. We'll see.

We spent two afternoons by the lake, figuring out what in the heck we were doing, and hunting downtown caches. I so love Lake Michigan. Yesterday was HOT and HUMID and the lake effect was nil. I was *so* hot and *so* sweaty. Today was much cooler, breezy and pretty much perfection. Oh how I love walking by Lake Michigan.

Here are some photos of the Red Hots. (that's our team name) I'm really hoping this is just the beginning of a leisure activity we can enjoy together both home and while traveling. Check it out!

Searching on the rocks
Following the Garmin
Found our FIRST cache - a micro-cache

Signed the log sheet. We rerolled the log and put it back in the cache (film container to the right) and then put it back in its hiding place.
Our SECOND found cache - it was inside the opening below - had to stick a *gloved* hand under there to feel around. ( I let Frank do that!)


As of today, we've found FIVE. We're on a roll.

My logical boy. My silly dog.

At Starbucks, loving their free wi-fi while Jake gets a haircut in the shop next door. First day home held some amusement.

Jake wandered in to my room when I got home from work, asking me about the conference and telling me about parts of his week. I told him I met "the lady." "Kay Arthur?" he asked. "Yup!" I explained that I told her about him, and that she had hugged me and signed my Bible. He asked "What kind of person autographs a Bible!? It's not like she wrote it.". Ha. That is pretty logical I guess. I explained that she wrote all the accompanying commentary. Such a kid. That really hit my funny bone since it seemed so perfectly natural to have her sign it for me.

Boomer missed me. A lot. I got home from work and he clung to my ankle. Anna needed me to move my car so she could go to work, and I didn't have the heart to walk out on Boomer, so I brought him out with me. He hates car rides. He jumps in happily, but then howls and whines. I backed into the street, Anna left, and I pulled into the garage. I opened the door, called Boomer, and he would not budge. He even ignored me, staring straight ahead. Whew. I walked into the house, knowing he would scamper after me. No scamper. I got a hot dog, and waved the treat. No movement. I broke up the hotdog and made a path from reachable to out of reach to out of car. Not a muscle moved. He was doggedly intent that I was not leaving without him ever again.

No one else was home. 15 minutes passed without so much as a movement towards the hot dog. This just cracked me up since he so dislikes the car and so loves hot dogs.

Boomer just isn't himself when I'm gone, and I must admit I've abandoned him a lot this year. He was paying me back. Frank and Jake arrived, and Jake hauled him in on his leash, stating that dogs do not have enough reasoning to associate cars and leaving. Hmmmm. I beg to differ. Boomer knew.

It's good to be home with my logical boy and silly dog!

A decadent day

Hello from the Embassy Suites in Columbus, Ohio. Tonight is my fifth night here, and I am staying until Tuesday. I have an air conditioned-as-cold-as-I-want-it, two room sweet suite all

to myself, and I am soaking it up.

I attended a three credit class here at a Trinity extension: Xenos Christian Fellowship. [by the way, if you google that, you can get to pages and pages of downloadable teaching from years of great speakers] The class was entitled "Theology and Practice of the Spiritual Life." When I saw the description in our Trinity Evangelical Divinity School catalog, I knew I had to take this course. Then I discovered that it wrapped around a conference here with an emphasis on Bible study and Bible teaching. And the cherry on the top of this delightful treat? Kay Arthur was one of the featured speakers for the Summer Institute conference.

Meeting Kay Arthur is was on my bucket list.

We arrived Wednesday - about 25 of us in the class, and thousands for the conference which began that evening. To my surprise Kay Arthur was in the audience for the Thursday morning lectures. As soon as I saw her I made a bee line over to her, gave her a hug, told her I was a groupie and got my photo with her. I told her the story of how when Jake was a preschooler he would watch Barney on TV and then announce, "It's time for the lady!" He would play in the family room while I watched Kay for an hour and took copious notes while paging through my Bible. She ignited a passion for God's Word in me that has not and will not subside. She is one of my Spiritual mentors.

During her talk she told us she is 76 years old. Hmmmm. Would you ever ever guess that? You would not guess it from listening to and watching her, either. She was all over that stage, and her energy and passion were unparalleled. I will tell you that she is *very* photogenic. She looks a bit older up close and personal, but gosh... God is keeping her young and spry.

What a thrill for me. I bought a brand new leather Inductive Study Bible, and had her autograph it. She wrote,

"Grace dear ~

May this be your treasured tent of meeting with God - Exodus 33:7-14 and 2 Timothy 2: 1-7. Love, Kay July 23, 2010

It brings tears to my eyes to read that. I taught the pentateuch, and remember being so touched in Exodus with the tent of meeting, and how Moses lingered there. I remember teaching that each of us could enter the tent - that God awaits us.

The intense three days ended yesterday. Afterwards I was mentally numb, but managed to review some homework assignments, and organize my millions of notes. I shopped a bit - the puttery aimless kind of shopping that you only do on vacation. And then I slept. A lot.

Today I did one of my homework assignments. This is the description:

The observance of a three hour focused solitude. Find a time and a place that will provide for uninterrupted attention on the inner life. You should take a Bible and perhaps a journal but that is all. Prayerful meditation on Scripture and Spirit-led examination of the heart should occupy virtually the entire time of solitude. it will be important for you to be very intentional about how you will use this time. Don't be afraid to have something of a plan in place ahead of time. Be prepared to adjust your plans in response to the Spirit's direction but do not enter into the solitude with no sense of how you plan to use the time. The solitude should take place after we have discussed solitude in class. Write a one page report on this experience telling how the time got spent and what possibilities you see for the observance of similar solitudes in your future.

I find it hard to imagine a homework assignment that I'd prefer doing. My report is below.

So much to blog about. My blogging has petered out since Paris - so sorry. But I'll be back. Life is good and full and I am so blessed. Blessings to you all. -g

Preparation: Staying in Columbus for a few extra days allowed me needed conference decompress time, and an opportunity for the observance of this solitude. The night before my planned solitude I read from The Gospel Primer, noting on paper a list of verses to ponder. This included a few whole chapters, so I was secure that three hours would be filled. I am also newly convicted to use M’Cheyne’s method to get a broader sweep of Scripture. (I tend to take small bites and chew them long and hard!) This incredibly user friendly daily application was previously downloaded to my iPad but never started, so I wrote down the Day One chapters on my note pad. The morning of the solitude, I showered, ate, sorted notes, and cleaned up my room in preparation. I reread my notes on the lecture “Against the Flow.” I put my Blackberry and laptop in the front room of the hotel suite, and set up my supplies in the quieter back room. This included my (brand new) Inductive Study Bible, my colored pencils and pens, and some blank pages of notebook paper. I readied with a water bottle, tissues, and a sweater. I began. More days than not I spend an hour with the Lord in quiet solitude each morning at home, so I looked to this time with anticipation, and knew the time would fly.

Result: A blessed time. 11:02 to 11:18 a.m. was preparation. [Hebrews 11:6 to Mark 9:24 to James 4:7-10 to James 1:17.] 11:18 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. was confession. God had a lot to discuss with me! [2 Cor 10:5-7; James 1:17 (confessing that I really don’t trust that He knows what is *good* for me); and then all of James 4.] I found that most of the sins that God was bringing to mind were dealt with in James 4. I thought I was done and then asked Him again (and again) “What else Lord?” 12:15 to 1:40 p.m. was spent on M’Cheyne’s four readings. LOVED IT. Then I still had time so I went to Romans 5, because I had noted that Milton Vincent said that Romans 5 saved his life. (page 94) What a rich text. Preaching the Gospel to myself. I began to outline a teaching for an upcoming retreat on verses 3 to 5. Verse 5 brought tears as I realized how much I need to rehearse to myself that God loves me and pours His love into my heart. The retreat teaching took me to Deuteronomy 30 which God has given me as my life message. I had never used it attached to Romans 5:3-5 so I loved that. At 2:25 p.m. the Amen. I truly love being in His Word.

What I learned: I’m really practiced at the solitude, the journaling and the Bible intake. It is completely natural. Yet I realized that I read the Word with teaching in mind. I would like to have my guitar and a few songs to add to my worship in this time. Or perhaps Scriptures that go over the attributes of God. I need more worship and adoration. (How do I turn off the teacher in me?) I also realized that having my Blackberry OFF and the internet connection OFF is key. I realized that recently my daily morning hour with God has included dealing with some outside influences delivered through technology. I plan to incorporate M’Cheyne into my morning hour which will mean moving *lesson study* to another time. I will aim for a three hour solitude once a month, and put the next one in my date book each time. A full blown retreat like this luxurious six nights in this hotel once a year will also be my goal. I LOVED THIS ASSIGNMENT, and I learned a lot about my habits and how I can further sweeten my times with the Lord.

New Design...New Post

Wow. This new background template should wake us all up! Whew.

It's me! Yes, I'm alive and blogging. As usual there are about 50 blog posts in me, but let me start with observations on John 6. If only I had the time to sit and write and write...

As I am preparing to lead a study in John later this summer, I'm re-reading this Gospel in the New Living Translation. One morning recently I read John 6:16-21. The familiar story of Jesus calming the storm held some new realizations for me.

John 6:16-21 (NLT)
16 That evening Jesus’ disciples went down to the shore to wait for him.
17 But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum.
18 Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough.
19 They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified,
20 but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here!”
21 Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination!

The first thing I observed was that when the disciples went ahead without Jesus, a storm blew in. Isn't that just perfect? How many times do we bring on our own storms by leaving Jesus behind as we row into our own plans. You can pretty much count on the sea getting "very rough" when you leave Jesus behind.

What if the disciples had waited for Him? The darkness was falling, and they panicked. They came up with a plan B because they could not wait upon the Lord. Hmmm. Know anyone like that?

Next I noticed who initiated reconnection in the storm: Jesus. He did not forget about them or think that the storm served them right. He sought them out. He walked right out to them. Isn't it comforting to know that Jesus holds us, longs for us and reaches out to us when we fail?

I love how the disciples are described as EAGER to let him in the boat. Indeed! But we can learn from that too. How many times do we beat ourselves up, saying, "If only..." or "I don't deserve forgiveness." While it's true that our decisions bring consequences with them, it is also true that we serve a merciful Lord and that we need to learn to be EAGER to get Him back in our boat. Keep a short list of sins. When you blow it, repent, reconcile, and get Him back in the boat! The sooner the better!

Finally, once they had Jesus in the boat they immediately reached their destination. I've been thinking about this lately. I have this plan for my life, and my prayers often reflect the elements necessary to achieve MY plan. But really, what is the destination? For me it truly has become Peace with God. That's my destination. What could possibly be worth missing out on that? I need to keep concentrating on our relationship, and leave the steering to Him. If He's in my boat, I've already reached my destination. I need to relax into the journey.

God's Word is simple and complex. Simple enough to read and understand. Complex enough that with each perusal the nuances become clearer. I just love that.

Good night!

Enjoying the Journey

Today is day four of a four day week end. The "to do list" is partially conquered, but really, there's never an end. On top of that I'm a wee bit blue and feeling unmotivated. So, I'm gifting myself a gentle kind of day - puttering here and there without time pressure. I need to be gentler to myself at times.

I'm the current STOP of a traveling book, All the Way to Heaven by Elizabeth Sherrill. I have very little time to read anything other than class materials, and I tend to spend any time I do have on my Bible study. But I'm not ready to forward this book quite yet because it really is a gem.

These quotes have made me pause as I read them just now.

I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, "Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown." And he replied, "Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way." ~Minnie Louise Haskins

"Our hand in his is of course a poet's way of expressing trust. And why should dark be better for our journey than daylight? Because, I've come to feel, holding our hand is God's delight."

"Getting there, even to some noble goal, is not as important to God, I suspect, as the journey in companionship with him. It's relationship, not achievement, that he wants."

"It's an hour by hour, minute by minute thing, Andrew [as in Brother Andrew] said. 'God doesn't set us a task and come back later to see how we've done. He goes with us every inch of the way.' And it's along the way that the important thing happens, the creature falling in step with the Creator."

Of course I know all this in my brain. But this speaks to my heart. My "to do list" heart with the mentality that often rates a day by its productivity.

Today is not overly productive, or at least not as productive as I'd like. But I am in relationship with the One who understands the blues, knows the causes and holds the solution. I'm leaning in. I want to bring him delight - the delight of my still hand in His, even for moments at a time, is a lovely picture indeed.

Le Jardin

It's hard to believe the garden - it's in crazy bloom and grow mode. It's not even Memorial Day week end and I've already been out planting and trimming. This has to be a record. What will I do all week end? (smile)

You can see photos here.

And no, there are no photos of the powdery mildew nor the bush with a bad haircut...

Powdery Mildew

Wow it's hot out there.

But I still had to go out to the garden and try to save my favorite swaying bushes just outside our living room window. They had patches of white powdery mildew and it was spreading. So, I googled it (of course) and came up with a baking soda, dishsoap and water concoction to spray on AFTER removing all affected leaves.

I cut away limbs. I cut away individual leaves. I cut away flower buds. Cut cut cut. I was rather ruthless because I *really* like this plant. And then I sprayed and sprayed and sprayed, likely overdoing it but wanting to protect the healthy foliage.

And of course it got me thinking.

I'm being pruned right now. Is it because God loves me so much?
Even some tender new shoots of my life are being snipped away - areas I thought might bloom soon. Hmmm.
He's really going at it - snips are coming in all directions. Marriage is hard. Parenting one child is so full of tough love right now - it's agonizing. A "friend's" words were repeated to me - complaining/maligning that was done in a CHURCH setting which makes it even more painful. Work is so busy. School coursework is piled on in this abbreviated summer time frame. And then there's garden ailments on top of it all!

Where does a gal go to resign? I could make a good hermit right about now.

Pruning is needed. Some self pruning is usually a good option as well. Where can I relieve some pressure? What mildew have I accumulated? What do I need to cut out of my life? (a continual revelation as God wants more and more of me) God's pruning is not self directed, but if I deal with sin issues, He won't have to.

I need to remember what I learned in the garden this morning: I was not hacking away at the bush to hurt it. I was cutting deep because I want to save it. I want it to be healthy. I don't want it to infect nearby plants. Believe me, it was difficult to prune away flower buds, but it had to be done. I had to cut away for the long term health rather than the short term beauty. And then I had to apply the cleansing and protecting coat of baking soda, water and dish soap.

In my life the best healing application is the cleansing and protecting Word of God. I need to keep applying it...bathing in it...even with my freshly pruned limbs. It will sting, and it might wither some parts of me that need destroying. But I'd rather overdo it than not apply enough.

And above all, I need to remember that my Master Gardener knows what He's doing in order to produce the best possible fruit in me at just the right season. In most of these situations I don't have big changes to make, but I need to lean in and TRUST that He knows what He's shaping in me.

Jesus said, "I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and He prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. ... When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father." (from John 15:1-8 NLT)

Please allow my pruning to bring You glory, Father. Amen.

Back in the swing

Bonjour! We've been back from Paris for a week and a half, but I'm still barely awake at ten pm. I think I wore myself out! What a fabulous city - I am officially a Francophile. I want to live in Paris.

I just had my hot chocolate. Each night I make myself a cup of hot milk, and add splenda and ghiradeli cocoa...quite sublime. It's a wee taste of Paris to savor here in Greendale.

A new class is begun, work is busy, Anna just had prom, Frank was in Toronto, the garden needs tending...back to life in full swing. I am surrounded by piles that need my attention.

But my heart...tis still in Paris. I'm not quite all back yet. And not sure that I want to be.

Bon soir, gjr.

From Paris with Love

Now I am getting VERY excited. Our trip is feeling...REAL.

Other than a client lunch at the Yacht Club tomorrow, I'm done with work for TWO weeks. Bliss. I've been working 45-50 hours a week for the last month, and I'm pooped and ready for this break.

I have three days to clean the house, pack and repack. And to keep brushing up on my French. And to read the three novels set in France that I have begun. Sounds heavenly. Putter and read. Love it.

I have set up a new blog for our trip. The address is http://bonjourgracie.blogspot.com/

So, go there now and sign up to follow. I'm hoping to chronicle our Paris adventures there, so, check in often. And please oh please...comment!

Not sure if I'll blog here again before Monday, so, if not, au revoir!

Mysterious ways

Sometimes, often, God's ways are not my ways. He answers my prayers ... creatively.

We have a big, once in a lifetime trip coming up. I've been praying. I'm not a worrier, but this has been looming for months, and I AM a planner for sure.

A couple months ago I prayed earnestly that God would assist us financially so that the usual *stuff* wouldn't accompany Frank and I to Paris. Frank is an accountant, and he thinks in terms of budgeting. Everything. Me, I work hard and then like to enjoy the moments with the cash on hand. I don't spend beyond what we have, but I count the cost of missed opportunities more than the budgetary consequence. We've learned how to deal with that difference, but it causes a few tense moments. Actually, we balance each other out. On my own, I'd be broke but smiling. He'd be rich and dull. So...anyhow, I want our time in Paris to be stress free.

This morning as I made breakfast for Jake for the first time in weeks, I reviewed the absolute CRAZY schedule I've been keeping. I generally work 24 hours a week, but now I'm on my fourth straight week of full time plus. Add that to finishing a graduate school class, and keeping up with a busy family, a lot of singing at Easter, blah blah blah... you get the picture. I've never had five work projects on my desk at one time, but I do now! I've been under enormous pressure, juggling them and trying to keep them straight and moving forward. My work is all about deadlines, and the clients set the timing. When the Request for Proposal arrives in the mail, I have a deadline.

But this morning God reminded me of my prayers. My last two checks have been larger than usual, and the one I get this Friday will be close to double my normal paycheck. Just in time. Thank you Lord. I would have preferred finding a wad of twenties, but, indeed, You did provide.

As a diabetic, my health is another concern when traveling - I don't get sick that often, but when I do, the diabetes makes it worse. Also, I have not been sick since my lung yuck which landed me in the hospital this last December, so I've been wondering if the next cold or flu would hit my lungs. Well, God allowed a sinus infection last week, which is not a surprise since sleep was sparse and stress was high. Working non stop and finishing up this semester's final paper, the last thing I needed was a sinus infection. I'm coming out of it now, and it was intense. But hey... no lung involvement (thank you Jesus) and now my resistance is up. I generally only get one illness per season...so...I should be good to go!

Add to that the unpredictable amazing volcanic ash situation, and you'll have a glimpse of my recent duress.

And so this morning, as I sip my coffee, I'm smiling. God and I handled this one a little better than usual. I've been praying a lot, listening to uplifting music, and purposefully turning my thoughts to Him in the moments when panic threatened. My ten page fully annotated paper on "sanctification" is turned in, the Monday night final quiz went well, three projects are out of my hands and under review. The fourth and largest (60 pages of type and photo) ( times six copies, bound etc.) goes into UPS this morning. One more project to tackle, and I will get it done in the remaining work week.

My sinuses, along with the air space over Europe, are clearing.

Trust. I'm learning to trust. And this time, amazingly, I saw real progress in my reactions and in my inner responses. There's nothing like the peace that passeth understanding.

"Dependence" by Jamie Slocum has been my Prozac song of the last few weeks - God has really ministered to me through it. I'm growing. I'm leaning in. Who knows what He's preparing me for...

April 19th

Today is the one year anniversary of my father's trip to heaven. I still miss him. Grief is a strange travel companion. Just when you think you have dealt with it all, another memory hits and the tears well up again. But it has been a sweet year, for I am so thankful that I know without a doubt that Gib (that's what I called him for the last decade) is in heaven enjoying his eternal reward. Oh how forlorn the first year of grief must be without that assurance.

In my reading this morning, I am in 1 Samuel 1-3. It's one of those times when I'm simply reading the passage for the study I'm doing (A Heart Like His by Beth Moore) and wham... God's sovereign timing became evident.

The verse that hit me is 1 Samuel 3:13 and 14, " For I [God] told him [Eli] that I would judge his family forever because of the sin he knew about; his sons made themselves contemptible, and he failed to restrain them. Therefore, I swore to the house of Eli, 'The guilt of Eli's house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.'"

My dad had some tough conversations with his children near the end of his days. Some of my siblings still resent it, and wonder why he risked relationship. But as I read this passage I am so proud of my late daddy. He did indeed know that speaking plainly about what the Bible says about sin might risk alienation. But some things are more important than being popular. It was so not unloving. It was the essence of self sacrificial love. My father spoke the truth of God's word into a situation where God's Word is not seen as relevant. He knew the likely consequence. But he did it anyhow.

In this Scripture, Eli's lack of confrontation caused a *permanent* scar on the family line. That is very sobering.

So in addition to being thankful for the relationship I had with my father, the love of Scripture that he held until his last conscious moments, his steadfast spirit in times of duress, this morning I am thankful for his bravery. For his obedience. For his love and concern for each and every one of his children. He spoke the truth as he knew it - the God breathed innerant Word. There is no greater legacy.

I miss you Gib, but I'm happy for you. You've made it through the preparatory school of human life, and you've moved on to the real thing. See you soon!

New Toys

So, yesterday I had an appointment for a Mac class at Mayfair mall. I went early to play with the iPad, as I was really considering buying one. In another post I might explain my uses, but for now, let's just say that I would get as much use as most out of this new toy.

A salesman approached me - we'll call him Mark. He asked me if he could help, and I told him I wanted to see if the apps I use regularly on my iPod would transfer well to an iPad. He of course asked for an example, so I explained that I am a theology student, and I would need the Olive Tree Bible software to work at least as well. I have various Bible versions and also a Systematic Theology text on there. At that point it became very fun, for Mark looked right at me and excitedly told me that he had been going to church for one month, and didn't really know what to do next as far as studying the Bible. We talked about the church, a non denominational church in Wales, and how much he loved attending. I was able to show him the Bible application, and also direct him to Living on the Edge dot com where there is an entire online discipleship class - R12. (R12 stands for Romans 12)

This really was a kick for me. I am not overly gifted in evangelism - my forte is more in the discipleship area. But this was really exciting, and will spur me on to be more open about my passion for the Word. As in a previous post where I shared with a business partner and was asked to pray for our lunch, I am finding that sharing about my studies opens doors. Or not. But either way is okay - that is God's business. My part is to be ready to give an answer for the hope that lies within me. (1 Peter 3:15)

TIme for work. With our big vacation just TWO WEEKS from today, I'll be working 40 plus hours a week unti then. I miss my Mondays off already!

Do what you can.

This morning I am reading in my new Mosaic NLT - a very cool version of the Bible that you can read about at www.HolyBibleMosaic.com. I am reading the suggested readings for Passion Week. (the week of Good Friday leading up to Easter)

As I began to read Mark 14:1-15:47, I made a few notes that greatly encouraged me.

Mark 14:3 depicts the story of the woman pouring out expensive perfume onto Jesus as an act of devotion. Of course she is criticized. It's good for me to remember that I won't always be understood - except by Jesus. He knows the very motivation of her heart, (I just LOVE THAT) and commends her in verse 7, "You will always have the poor among you, and you can help them whenever you want to. But you will not always have me." And it made me think - it's okay to not always be the most sensible one in the room. There are times when we need to live in the moment and take advantage of an opportunity that won't come our way again.

I'm actually kind prone to this kind of behavior, but there are people in my life who don't approve. Do you know what I mean? This verse was just freeing to me this morning. I want to live in such a way that I am flexible enough to pour the perfume, to live in the here and now and see what God is up to. There are moments of JOY to be found in the most ordinary places - we just have to be open to them. Ephesians 5:16 tells us to "Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days." Colossians 4:5 says the same. (read the context of those verses to see that in our actions we are to be gracious, and not act thoughtlessly) And it is also important to note that this example of spontaneity is OTHER focused. It would be easy to spur of the moment take care of ME... but this example is all about her sacrificing for another - for her Lord.

I love Mark 14: 8's wording in the New Living Translation: Jesus says, "She has done what she could..." Isn't that FREEING? What does God expect from me, from you? That we do what we can. We don't have to figure it out, solve the problem, fix the mess... it's not always our responsibility. We just have to do what we can. Jesus appreciated that, and pointed it out to those nay-saying disciples of His. I just LOVE this. Jesus so appreciated her gesture of love, even though it really did not change the gravity of the situation. He was still going to die. But in that moment He had the sweetness of intimate relationship and devotion. He appreciated that moment.

Do you ever feel hopeless in a situation: your or someone else's problem is just so big that it paralyzes you to inaction? Just...do what you can. Ease her burden for just a few moments if you can. Just be there. Do what you can. Sometimes when I am in a pit of despair, I simply need a hug, and then I feel less alone. I always need an anointing of God's Word - a simple word of hope from a friend - a reminder of WHO is in control.

We need to just do what we can when the opportunity arises. Look for an opportunity to bless someone today.

Olive Tree

If you have an iPhone or an iPod touch, you'll want to read this.

I downloaded Olive Tree Bible reader to my iPod touch, and it has changed my quiet time. Really. Whereas I used to have stacks of Bibles (versions) and books to tote about, I now use my iPod A LOT.

So far I have loaded 5 Bibles: NASB with Strongs, ESV Study Bible, Mosaic NLT, NIV with notes and Amplified.

Looking up a passage is simple. Then, with a very simple two button maneuver, I can read the same verse in a different version, or the study notes for the passage. Cross references are all electronically linked. Amazing.

I can highlight, attach notes to a certain passage, and even change the icon of the note so that I know the subject matter before opening my note. The highlighters can be programmed to different titles, so I have purple highlights for "Attributes of God," orange highlights for "Promises to Plead," etc. Likely I need to show you in person how ***cool*** this is.

My iPod fits in my purse. It's always there. Instant reading if I'm stuck at the doctor's office.

I've also downloaded the free Barnes & Noble ebook reader, and have a few daily devotional books on there, too.

It's hard to put into words how exciting this is for me. (stop smirking) Keeping track of my resources and having the right things with me at the right time has been such a challenge. Yes, I still like books and the feel of the paper and the actual hand writing of my notes. But this, this is revolutionary.

When I go to class, I have my iPod instead of my Bible. And it's FAST to look up the verses. And the Greek and Hebrew definitions. I even have Wayne Grudem's Systematic Theology book uploaded on Olive Tree. That actual hardcover book is 3 inches thick and 1300 pages.

Our 22 year old was sitting next to me at church yesterday, and he was intrigued as I took notes electronically on certain verses. He told me that was very cool, and that he had iPod envy.

Okay...back to studying. Quiz # 4 tonight on Christ's work, and the Five Theories of Atonement. 10 page fully annotated page due in 3 weeks. I've chosen the subject, "Sanctification."

I would love to be a full time student and writer. Anyone want to pay me? :)

Monday Monday

I love Mondays. Usually. Of late, Mondays have been spent at work. And when I don't have Monday in which to get my ducks in a row, a lot of things suffer... including my blog.

But today, today I am off work, bustling about with a to do list in my mind, thanking God for full energy and a day off in which to use it.

This morning during my Pause (trying to find a new name for my quiet time... do you like "pause"?)(something makes me think "menopause" which of course totally ruins the mind picture) I downloaded a new resource to my iPod - the Mosaic Bible. It is a New Living Translation Bible which has a "mosaic" of reference materials such as paintings, poetry, quotes from Christians throughout the centuries and from many continents ... a unique resource.

What I really *love* is the forward information.

"On our own we are little more than bits of stone and glass. Together we are the body of Christ."

"All too often we allow the here and now to dominate our lives and define who we are. But as Christians, we are each part of something much larger than simply the here and now. We are part of a mosaic - a patchwork of people, places, times, and cultures - that depicts one person: Jesus Christ.

The purpose of this Bible is to provide a way to encounter Christ on every continent and in every century of Christian history. Why? Because when this happens, God's profound and often unexpected work on behalf of his children becomes clear in new and exciting ways. It is important to see that the body of Christ is much bigger than the small piece we each experience in our everyday lives. ... It's not about the individual pieces, as important as they are. It is about the whole picture that emerges when all these pieces come together to form the beautiful mosaic that is God's church."

Such lovely thoughts. Makes my own little world less important and more important all at once. It is not all there is. And yet, my little world and influence are a part of how the world views Christ.

More information on the resource can be found at www.HolyBibleMosaic.com

Truth

The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You.

Trust in the LORD forever. For in GOD the LORD, we have an everlasting Rock.

Isaiah 26:3,4 NASB

Blessed

Blessed I am.

Snuggled under a down lap blanket, hot coffee to my right, windows before me with birds chirping happily at the feeder - I am in my favorite spot. In the bedroom, on the love seat facing the yard, reading, sipping, journaling, and working through my current Bible study workbook.

Having been away at a hotel for a few days, I'm cognizant of the blessing of being snugged back in. The natural beauty of our woods feeds me, even in these last grey brown muddy days as we anticipate the green of spring. This luxurious pace soothes me. I need to emerge and go walking soon, to get some exercise and fresh air; but for now...I am still.

Two children have left for school. Another is up and laughing at the TV while having breakfast. One has not yet emerged from her cocoon of sleep. Blessed.

Work awaits. I'm at an odd place in career - I sense that I could jump in with both feet and find success. For my job, and my industry, I have what it takes. It's there waiting for me. And yet... would I be fulfilled at such a pace? Money and status versus time and balance. There is no *right* answer - it is a personal journey that can be coached but not taught. There is a different solution for each of us.

Likely these thoughts are swirling because of my recent travel partner. This woman, who I came to know quite well over 48 straight hours of car travel, is immensely successful in her career. Her husband is the home base for their two teens. She is one of the most balanced highly successful women that I have met. She had many sweet calls with kids - the checking in kinds of calls. She went running from our hotel. She spoke of neighbors, of church, and of times of refreshment in the woods they call their yard. She enjoys late night swims.

She was intrigued with me and my pursuits, but I could tell she didn't quite *get it.* She told me she thought I undersold myself - that I could do *more.* She was very appreciative of my studies and pursuits, but I sensed that she didn't quite think that my flexible schedule would maximize my efforts.

Well, yes, I could push. I could be at work right now rather than here reading and writing. I could be at work 60 hours a week, and paid well for it. Yes, she's right. I could do more. I could have ignored the opportunity today for lunch with Emily before she heads back to school from her spring break. I could have worked this morning to avoid the possibility of a few hours of catch up in the office on Saturday. Or I could have worked both days!

Women are given so many options, aren't we? We are the keepers of the home, the keepers of the children, the keepers of our goals and dreams, the keepers of relationships, and the increasingly, the keepers of the workplace. A priority must be to be the keeper of balance in the very precious gift of 24 hours each day. Conscious choice. Choose where to invest my minutes.

I'm thankful for options. I realize that not everyone has them. But even as full time workers, or single moms, each woman still has the opportunity to balance the remaining time. We need to nurture all parts of us: physical, spiritual, intellectual, social... we each have 24 hours. With the options I have, I still struggle to find the right combination, and not *waste* any precious minutes. Sitting and staring at my bird feeder is not a waste. Sitting and staring at the internet - that might be. Balance. Choices. Moment by moment.

Well, now it's time for 20 more minutes in the Word. And then 30 minutes on the pavement walking and listening to the birds. Often I listen to a 30 minute podcast on my iPod while I walk, but today I might just listen to the birds - live and in person.

Enjoy your Friday. Take a minute, or ten, to put your feet up and stare out the window at the wonder of spring. Go for a walk around the block at lunch time. The pause that refreshes...thinking time...I highly recommend it!