Daughter of the King

100

2009-01-22T15:53:00.003-05:00

RULES: There are 100 statements and you * the ones you have done. Grab it and play for yourself!!
1. Started your own blog*
2. Slept under the stars*
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity*
7. Been to Disneyworld*
8. Climbed a mountain*
9. Held a praying mantis*
10. Sang a solo*
11. Had stitches*
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch*
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning*
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables*
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept in an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight*
22. Hitchhiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill*
24. Built a snow fort*
25. Held a lamb*
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse*
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset*
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community*
36. Taught yourself a new language3
7. Had enough money to be truly satisfied*
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing*
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke*
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight*
46. Been transported in an ambulance*
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud*
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason*
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy*
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial*
71. Eaten cavier
72. Pieced a quilt*
73. Stood in Times Square*
74. Toured the Everglades*
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible*
86. Visited the White House*
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chicken pox*
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous*
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one*
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a lawsuit
98. Owned a cell phone - my parents "own it" but I use it*
99. Been stung by a bee*
100. Read an entire book in one day*

If- Rudyard Kipling

2009-01-12T13:15:00.000-05:00

[IF]
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream--and not make dreams your master,
If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it all on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings--nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much,
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And--which is more--you'll be a Man, my son!
--Rudyard Kipling

Found in this Moment

2008-09-09T18:47:00.002-04:00

Today I had the pleasure of curling up on the couch beside Max and helping him work through Green Eggs and Ham and Red Fish Blue Fish Old Fish New Fish. It is extremely therapeutic for me to read with Max for an hour every afternoon. In this crazy life it's easy to get lost in the assignments and the pressures, so I'm thankful that God opened this door of opportunity. I find myself getting so excited over each word and when we finish a page I am filled with a sense of sincere accomplishment. Life is full of little victories. Jesus likes to give us little victories so that we don't grow weary. Tutoring my little 2nd grader puts life in perspective. It is good for me to remember that there was a time when it took me several minutes to get through a page in a book. I had to sound out each letter and then struggle to put them together. It is good for me to stop and thank God for the progress I have made in education. It is easy to forget what life was like ten+ years ago. We shouldn't forget, because God wants us to remember who He is, and one of the most powerful ways that He reveals Himself to us personally is by bringing us through trials. It has gotten to the point where I take for granted the fact that I can read, but there was time when it was extremely challenging for me. I need to remember the struggle so that my heart is filled with thanksgiving for my great Savior.

The point of this small post is to remind you to think about the little victories that Christ grants us. Rejoice in the moments, for that is how we live a life glorifying God and enjoying Him. Don't think that something has to change in order for you to rejoice. This is the day the Lord has made. We have the opportunity to praise His name through our thoughts, words, and deeds. May He give us the strength to live for Him forever.

Boston

2008-08-10T09:34:00.000-04:00

Yesterday Hannah and I traveled to Boston to meet up with my dear sweet Gretchen and her sisters. I have never been to Boston, and it is my new favorite city. There is so much history packed into that place, and it is extremely gorgeous/romantic. I am really glad that we were able to go. I can’t wait to return someday so that I can take more time to soak in the importance of the events that took place in history.

It was interesting because on the way back to Groton Hannah and I were waiting at the train station and it was late, like midnight. Well, there was a troubled woman who walked by us and began cussing at a sign. She was walking on the train tracks and acting very crazy. Hannah and I prayed for her, and hoped that she would go away. Then a couple of boys came up and started talking with us. It didn’t take long for them to be freaked out by the lady who was still screaming filthy words into the darkness. Finally, she came over to us and looked right at me with hurting tearful eyes and asked us not to laugh at her. She said that it wasn’t funny and we had no idea how hard her life was. I knew she was right. Hannah and I gave her compassion, and assured her that we were praying for her and we understood that it wasn’t funny. We were just laughing because we were a bunch of kids and didn’t think she was funny at all. When she saw our sincerity her eyes changed, and she asked us to forgive her. She said that she often does things she doesn’t want to do, and that there is something wrong. We responded with things like, “it’s ok sweetheart, we know. Don’t worry about it. How about you go take a walk Honey? Deep breaths.” She smiled, and reached out to shake our hands. She was dirty, smelly, and kinda scary. Hannah and I shook her hand. Before this summer there is no way I would have handled that situation. I would have freaked out and mostly likely walked away. When she left the guys were in awe at how calm we were and how calm she ended up. We laughed, and thanked God for the lessons he has taught us this summer. Hannah said, “I could have hugged her.”
“I know, I wanted to take her to the Adult Center and shower her and do devotions.” We laughed then, but it was awesome to realize that God has changed us, and we are that much more equipped to love the “least of these” after this summer. We deal with cussing dirty people all the time around here. God has prepared me, and I am really excited to see how He uses me to minister in His name and for His sake.

An Update

2008-07-15T18:41:00.000-04:00

I am sitting in my tiny room writing a blog post to publish tomorrow on my night off. At the moment my temple is throbbing because I hit it hard on the corner of the door when I hopped us to get Amber’s hat from Alfonse. I have a huge knot at the end of my left eyebrow and the skin of my cheek bone is broken and burning. *sigh* I had no idea being a camp counselor would be sacrificial. Lol. In a lot of ways I am proud of it. I am not really the accident prone type, so when I do get a “battle wound” it makes me feel good inside. There’s something very honorable about occasionally taking one for the team. Even though, most of the time I am taking it for myself not the team, but that’s ok. You know what I mean.
I was wrong when I said I was working with middle school age kids this week. My girls are 9-11 years old and grades 4-6. There are seven of them, and we are getting along well. Last night we went out to look at the moon during devotions. It’s been cool because I have been using some of the things I learned last year in my education classes. It’s sorta obvious, but we remember information better when it is associated with an experience or sensation. Last night we were talking about how God created everything- “and it was good”. I had them all walk outside, and we were in the forest so it took a second before we could all see the moon through the trees then we read Psalm 8. It was really quite inspiring. I couldn’t tell if they enjoyed it, but then this morning as we were walking to breakfast Maddy said, “this is where we found the moon.” God has given me encouraging girls this week.
I am noticing that I am more of a touchy feely person than I realized. Aside from the fact that the love language test says that physical touch is my second strongest love language; I find myself drawn to the campers that want me to touch them often. Most of my girls this week sort of avoid physical contact, but Maddy and her sister Ryen (who is in Lorna’s cabin) frequently come up and nestle their head against my side. I love that. Physical touch is so powerful, and it’s weird for me because my family isn’t super touchy, but I like it more than I realized.
God has been especially faithful to me this week. Tomorrow (Tuesday) is my great-grandmother’s funeral. She was 96 years old and still living independently in her own home. I am really disappointed that I can’t be at the funeral. I am glad that she died, because she was ready, and I believe she was a Christian. I just wish I could be there to celebrate and honor her life. I suppose I can do so from Groton, MA this evening though it will be lonely.
Earlier today I was feeling rather sick, I mean I have a sore throat and I was all congested. My girls were all concerned for me and we have all been praying that I will get better. So far God is being gracious in to us in this way also. He takes such great care of me.
Today in chapel I got to share about love. It was wonderful because I love talking about God’s love. Seriously, I don’t think there is anything that get’s more excited than sharing the greatest love story of all time. Last week I got to do the same things with the Special needs chapel. “By this we know love, that He lay down His life for us.” Then we start reading through John 19 which is the crucifixion of Christ. It is powerful. I felt sorta bad because I didn’t really try to catch their attention with any creative props, but then I was reminded that it wasn’t my presentation that mattered. There is power in the Gospel and the Holy Spirit is the one that will work. It is so comforting believing the truth.
Well, I should get some sleep. Last night I went to bed the second I put my girls to bed, which was about 9:30. Now I am fading fast because it’s 10:31. Lol. Seriously, thanks for your prayers. I need them so much. May the God of peace guard your heart and mind in Christ.

I Rejoice...

2008-07-13T11:53:00.002-04:00

I Rejoice…
When Susan walks up to me with her pink sunshine face and says “I keep you.” It is her way of letting people know that she is grateful and she loves them.

When Ramona (speaks only Spanish) wanders into our room just to give us a hug.

When I wake up to the sunlight gracing the forest with glory. His mercy is new every morning.

When I can come to my Father with a plea for mercy, and I know He will grant my request.

When Robin answers her own questions in a different voice than she asked them in.

When Doreen wants to know more about Jesus.

When the wind dances with my hair and I remember that the Bible says the Holy Spirit is like the wind we don’t know where He comes from or where He is going, but He is with us.

When Patricia asks me to dance with her.

When Margaret is nasty and then grabs my hand with a twinkle in her eye and brings it to her lips for a kiss and an apology.

When Dottie asks, “…how come?”

When Elizabeth looks into my eyes and smiles.

When I get little notes of encouragement from fellow staff.

When I get to have my own room for the second time in my life (the last time was on my mission trip to Ridgefield Park, NJ). The best part is that the only person to talk with before I fall asleep is Jesus.

When I get mail from home!

When Tina comes up to ask if she is my buddy.

When I make time to practice Spanish before I go to sleep. (It has happened probably twice)

When I get lovely phone messages from dear friends. The sad part is that I can’t always call back.

When the Bible speaks directly to my heart and the Holy Spirit helps me know how to apply it.

When Elisabeth (the counselor) gives me a tight hug. She told Alfonse that “we know how to hug each other, thanks.” (When he was trying to show us how it could be better.)

When I found out that I am working with middle school girls this week. I hope to teach that age group someday.

When there are flowers in the rain. Last week when our power was out it was as if God placed them beside the bus just so that I could pick them and rejoice in His goodness even in the storm.

When my water battle is filled several times a day with cool refreshing “water of life”.

When I see the magnificent clouds and quickly remember that God made them to help me glorify His name, and His faithfulness extends beyond them.

When the name of the Lord is praised by the young and old campers that we have here at Grotonwood.

When I can lie down and sleep; confident that He loves me, because He gives His loved ones sleep.

When I get to take a shower after swimming in the lake. Which by the way is my favorite part of every day.

When Courage (my camper from the first week) sends me a letter that says she is praying every day that I will be her counselor next year. Lol.

When I can serve “the least of these”.

When love is so powerful that it brings pain.

When I remember that I am can do all things in Him because I am a daughter of the King.

When God places me under leadership that I can connect with and respect. (Thank the Lord for Alfonse!)

When I hear from my Mommy!

When a new week begins full of challenges and grace.

When my Daddy shows up just because he cares and rearranged his flight.

When I know that at the end of the day I have accomplished much because of the prayers of the saints (that’s you!).

I crave your prayers. Thank you for supporting me in this. These last few weeks have been the hardest weeks of my life, but they have also been the most rewarding. I am broken, but in my weakness He is made strong. God is growing me and His faithfulness reaches beyond the heavens. May His name be praised!

Rejoice in all things. Again I say, REJOICE!

What manner of love?

2008-07-12T14:48:00.002-04:00

I wish I could explain love. I wish I could understand how it is that in six days a soul can get so caught up in devotion that to be torn apart at the end of the week is too painful for words (literally). The power of love is exhausting. This weekend I am extremely tired. Saying goodbye to my dear girls this week was harder than I could have imagined. We had some interesting characters. I don’t have time now to talk about them all but I would like to tell you about my friend Elizabeth.

Elizabeth has been deaf since birth, so she could not hear me when I called her name. She is also mentally retared, so she didn’t always understand what was going on. Elizabeth was self abusive, and her body was covered in scars and open wounds. When she came she didn’t smile, when I sat beside her she grabbed my hand and placed it on her shoulder asking if I would rub her back. I spent hours everyday rubbing her back. We would sit in chapel and other activities and I would stroke her battered body.

At swim time every day we would go to the beach and she would sit and look at her calendars. She seriously brough 25 pounds of calanders which she lugged around everywhere. She liked to mark them up and then throw them away. She wanted me to write down my birthday, and when I did, she smiled. Elizabeth hardly ever smiles, but when she did she looked like a princess. By the end of the week I called her, ‘my princess’. The point is that I tried to get her into the water everyday, and everyday she would sit and look at her calendars. Finally on the last day Elizabeth after several glasses of water (which were requested through sign language) she got in the water. She ran down with me and we got all the way in. It only lasted a moment but she was smiling and giggling with me. I loved to hear her laugh.

She didn’t know much sign language, mostly because people haven’t taken the time to teach her. I could tell that she was used to being ignored because she didn’t look at my lips or my hands when we were together. She gazed off to the right or the left and only rarely would she look into my eyes. I would often hold her face in my hands just to catch her gaze for a moment. Then I would sign, “I love you.” She would do something quick with her hands and look away. It made me wonder if she understood love. This sign that we have for love, does she know it? Has anyone ever loved my dear Elizabeth before?

We became quite the pair, and counselors began to wonder why I loved her so much. I really can’t explain it. It was a love from God.

One day when we were doing activities Elizabeth and I were sitting in the grass and I was rubbing her back. I had just put bandages on her open scars and she stopped picking at her skin which was so exciting. Anyways, Peter (the bad one who God tamed a bit this week) came up and asked to speak with me. I said, “No Peter I’m busy”. He asked me what I was doing, and I said, “I am talking with Elizabeth.” When I realized what I had said, I looked into her eyes and said, “Do you know this is the way I talk with you? I love to touch you because that is the only way that we communicate. I love you because God loves you and He loves me. Do you know?” She smiled at me. Poor Peter, he didn’t get it.

On Thursday night we had a dance. I danced with Elizabeth. She can’t hear the music but she can feel it if she dances with someone. She loved it. She laughed and smiled the whole night. She buried her head in my shoulder and I began to cry. What love is this? I don’t understand.
She left yesterday, and I was heartbroken. Her caretakers tried to tell me that she wouldn’t hug me because she isn’t the touchy type. I just looked at them in disbelief. She was so confused and anxious. She didn’t want to leave. I held her tight for a moment and whispered a prayer in her ear. I am trusting that God still speaks to the deaf.

Reasons for Prayer

2008-07-02T09:30:00.002-04:00

If you are interested in what I am doing here at camp, then please take the time to read a summary of my week with the special needs adult campers.

SUNDAY:
Our 8 campers arrived this afternoon. They are all quite the characters. Diane made me laugh when we were sorting through her clothes because she apologized profusely for her Patriots t-shirt when she found out I was from Indianapolis. Brenda sorta freaked me out because she wouldn’t settle down and she has a tendency to hit herself when she is upset. Patty is so cute with her toothless grin and limited vocabulary. The campers weren’t there for more than an hour when a bad storm started up. The electricity flickered off a few times and then decided to stay off for good. Many of our campers are terrified of lighting, and the darkness didn’t help. We all hoped that the dining hall would be lit, but alas the kitchen crew was slaving away at gas ovens in the darkness. It was as an interesting spaghetti dinner with for our campers. Brenda has to have all her food pureed and she is allergic to glutton, so we had to make up special noodles and mash them with a fork because the blender wasn’t working. There was an uproar because the coffeemaker wasn’t working (and not just by me). After dinner we went to a short worship band service and then back to the cabin with crossed fingers over running water and lights. We were disappointed. So we brought lake water in to flush the toilets and we had the women brush their teeth with bottled water. We skipped showers, and sent everyone to bed.
Monday:
We woke up at 6:45 to discover that the electricity was on and the water was working. I quickly read Psalm 130 “I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His Word I hope.” The words were refreshing and inspiring as I contemplated the daunting day ahead.
Rachel and I got dressed and then woke up the rest of the cabin. We started showers- and purposefully left Brenda to sleep as long as she could. Breakfast was significantly better than dinner because we had power which meant everyone could have their coffee. I suppose I fit in well with the special adults at least in this regard. I had trouble finding Brenda something to eat, but eventually landed on rice crispy’s and milk. The rest of the morning was spent cleaning up accidents which required rubber gloves, a few walks to the cabin to get new clothes and lots of prayers. Jesus reminded me gently that He cleans up my crap so I should be willing to do the same for others. Lunch was an adventures because I served Brenda tomato soup assuming it would be fine, but also there is glutton in that also. I ended up feeding her mooshed up tomatos, tuna, cucumbers, and green peppers. I almost gagged when I put it on her plate. She ate it up, and wanted seconds. *sigh* Rachel had her own problems to deal with at lunch, so by the time we got to the pool we were both rather exhausted. Diane ended up falling and hitting her head on the cement on the way into the bus. (This fact will play in later when we talk about her three seizures.)
The beach was fun, and I enjoyed bringing Margaret and Diane to the water and then wiping the sand off their feet. They are so hesterical and very thankful. Margaret is 80. When we got back to the store Carrie threw up again, and this time I dealt with it. When we got to the cabin for rest time Rachel and I thought that we would finally be able to sit down. Five minutes into it we heard Brenda running to the bathroom. Bless her heart, she had made it to the toilet but her vomit scared me, and she was breaking out in a serious purple “rash”. I sent for our unit leader and got Brenda wiped up. They took her to the nurses office. Dinner was easier because we didn’t have Brenda think about. I sat with Diane wasn’t feeling good from her fall, so I was trying to make her feel as comfortable as possible. Our director Bill came up to me and asked if I had eaten dinner, because he wanted me to come with him and Brenda to the ER. I left my table in Ben’s care and went to the nurse’s office. Brenda’s lips were turning colors and she wouldn’t be consuled. The drive to the hospital wasn’t pleasant except for the beautiful sky. The clouds are different out on the east coast. Back home the clouds tend to be flat just like the land, but these clouds were puffy and gorgeous. Brenda was miserable and kept asking for Millie, and to be able to go home. I held her hand and asked God to give us peace. The ER waiting room was rather empty, which was nice, but it seemed like and eternity before we went in. They finally waited on us, and her caregivers (Millie) arrived. Bill and I waited for the results. Apparently, Brenda burst a bloodvessel when she was puking and that was the purple “rash” on her face. They didn’t want her back at camp because she had low sodium/potassium. By the time Bill and I got back I was helping with showers for no more than 10 minutes when the Amblence arrived at the nurses station for Diane’s seizures. She had two while I was at the hospital with Brenda, and Bill asked me if I would be willing to ride with Diane to the ER. I asked Dan to grab my bag when he came, and he asked me what my favorite milkshake was. *sigh* I fought back tears while sitting next to the EMT. It’s amazing how quickly the heart can learn to love. I felt awful for Diane. She hates drawing attention to herself, and she didn’t want to go. I tried to joke with her and we sang a little. She is such a dear.
Dan and his wife Jeanette got to the ER in about 40 minutes. They handed me my bag an a milkshake and told me to take a break. I called my Mom, because that is what a person does when they are enduring tradegy. Mom doesn’t even know Brenda/Diane but she needed to hear what happened. We didn’t talk long, just until I finished my chocolate milkshake and decided to walk back into the hospital.
We were there until 1 in the morning waiting on results and such. They let her go back with us, and her care taker never showed up. When we got back everyone was asleep, but Diane didn’t sleep well. I mumbled something to Rachel and didn’t even bother turning on the light to change. My whole body ached from the emotional exhausting of being the supporting comforter for two next-to strangers, who I love dearly, and physically from standing on hospital tile for hours. Thankfully sleep was sweet. (That was one day).
Tuesday: We woke up this morning with Diane heaving in the bathroom. It was 5:30 and I ran to get Heather. She called the nurse and I tried to calm the other women. It was too early for everyone to be getting up. I tried to go back to sleep, but people were waking up, so eventually I convinced myself to get out of bed.
We got the women to breakfast and it was a rather uneventful morning. Diane felt dizzy and she was acting strange. She ended up having another seizure at lunch. We called 911 and they took her away again. I was expecting to go, but Bill sent one of the office people this time. I felt so sorry for Diane. She kept apologizing for being so much trouble.
We ended up skipping swim time because of all the commotion. Instead we had longer time at the store and then went for rest. Rachel and I actually got to rest for 20 minutes today. I did have to back up Diane’s things so that her care taker could pick them up. It made me sad. She loves Jesus so much and she really enjoyed camp. Last night when she was in the hospital, she said, “I can hear my heart,” to which I smiled and said, “good.” She replied, “Jesus is in there.” It’s moments such as this that make our work so intense.
Dinner went well and so did the evening activity. Rachel and I had a great schedule for showers, so we didn’t have any trouble getting done on time. I did devotions with Doreen and Penny. I read some Scriptures and asked how I could be praying for them. Doreen said, “That I would go to heaven.” I jumped at the chance to talk about salvation. “Do you think you will?” “No, because I am not good at my house.” I got to tell her that the great part about the Gospel is that it’s not about what we do, but about what Christ has done. She said, “You mean, Jesus is real?” What a question! I smiled the hugest smile, and told her that He was. She wishes she could see Him, so we read I Peter 1, “though you do not see Him you love Him, though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with a joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory… obtaining the salvation of your souls.” *sigh* It was so exciting. She wants to talk about it more today. The best part is that she is a hold over camper, so I will be spending the weekend with her as well.
WEDNESDAY:
Uneventful, I am a bit more rested, and Heather decided to give me two hours off this morning because I am working the weekend. I will give you an update when the day is done.

All this is to show you that we need prayer. We are working with some serious stuff. These people don’t know kindness, and they are so touched with our willingness to serve them. Please pray for strength and patience. Please pray that we would take every opportunity to share Christ with them verbally and nonverbally.
I forgot to mention Peter. He likes to come up and ask to meet me in private. He is always touching my shoulder and asking me to look into his eyes. When I say “always” I mean truly every few minutes. We are going to have over the weekend also. I am nervous, but I need to remember that he needs Jesus too. His home is really rough, and this place is radically different from anything he has ever known.
Ok, there is so much more, I can only give you a glimpse, and I know that it is already too long. Thank you for holding us up in prayer. May God be with you.

(I am sorry for all the typing mistakes. I don't have time to read over this.)

2008-05-11T21:44:00.000-04:00

I’m thankful for the guy who invented sticky-notes. Who would have thought that simply putting a small strip of stick on the back of a square piece of paper would be such a helpful idea?

I miss living things, mostly people, but also plants. I can't wait to go home!

Packing up to go home after a nine months of college-life is a bittersweet experience. I’m thankful that I’m only a freshman, and I have at least two more years to look forward to.
You know where your heart is by what you leave out until the last minute: coffee, pillow/bedding, clothes for tomorrow, computer/school, thank you notes, water pitcher, and my Bible.

This summer is going to be really awesome, but really hard. The problem with loving people is that then you miss them. Last year at this time, I didn’t know these girls, so I didn’t need to miss them. Now, I am going to go through some sad times of withdrawal. Thankfully, someone invented the cell phone, and we’ll keep in touch.

God loves to do things differently than we would do them. Today, in the sermon I realized that the most intimate account of the passion of the Christ is written in first person, and it’s found in the Old Testament (Psalm 22). What a God?!

Mother’s are the best! I can’t wait to be one. =)

I’m really looking forward to the car ride tomorrow. I love long trips, and I love being the passenger. My sibs and I are going to have quite the time!

Anticipation is half the fun. The longer you wait for something, the more excitement builds up, and it’s just a better experience. God was so creative when He made the human heart.
Thunderstorms are intense; I like them.

Memory is an interesting thing. We learned in Ed Psych that episodic memory is the strongest. It’s been said that I have a good memory, and I do for some things. When I love someone, I remember them. I remember what they say, and how they were. I remember everything. The same is true about theology. I remember what I learn about God because I love Him. I’ve said several times this year, that if I could study what I wanted to study, it would be Bible. I love reading about Him and talking about Him. I love knowing Him and getting to know Him. I remember these things. When it comes to Spanish vocabulary I remember the words that I value or I associate with my life, siempre means always. I learned this week that girls register/remember emotion with the same part of their brains that they process information/facts and do their reasoning. Basically, that helps me understand why, if I associate a strong emotion with information, then I’m going to remember it better. I recall the emotion and with it come details I have matched with it. Boys register and process emotion in a completely different part of the brain which is why it is harder for them to analyze their emotions and then express them. *sigh*

I should go. Thanks for listening to my random thoughts. I will probably be able to see you soon, which makes me so happy!

Oh, one more thing. I really love it when there is Scripture written out on things. Right now both my shirt and my mug have verses written on them: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

I was reminded today that basically we need to speak Scripture to people all the time because that is how we are going to win them. Christian and non-Christians alike need to be “bathed” in Scripture, day in and day out, so let’s work on mediating on the Word so that it is ever on our lips.

I am loved

2008-05-08T17:02:00.001-04:00

Today my amazing friends Lisa and Gretchen threw a surprise birthday party for me. They had icecream cake from Dairy Queen, and I was reminded yet again that I am loved. Thanks everyone for coming and making God’s love so clear through your kindness. May He bless you in every way. I am studying for finals, so I can’t elaborate, but I just wanted to share the happiness.

I'm Excited

2008-05-01T12:34:00.002-04:00

I’m sitting at my desk with a bag a baby carrots and a mug of coffee to my right. To the left my piles of Educational Psychology sit to remind me of the work ahead. I got a sack lunch this morning so that I could work on my portfolio while I ate. Well, I’ve made so much progress that I decided it was time to take a break and give God some praise for all He has done in my life.
I am a week away from completing my freshman/sophomore year of college. God has given me amazing friends who have helped me grow in faith and in fun. God didn’t have to send me to college, but He did. He didn’t have to give me the sweet pleasure of Christian fellowship, but He did. He didn’t have to provide an awesome Church for worship, but He did. God has taken care of my every need- and surpassed my greatest expectations. He loves me. I know, it’s a profound thought, but truly, it still takes my breath away that He loves me. He didn’t have to.

Basically, I just wanted to take a moment to thank Him. God is a great God with a great plan. His plan is full of pain because pain brings us closer to Christ. His plan is full of joy because He has seen fit to give us the pleasure of delighting in this life and in Him. His plan is full of beauty because He is a beautiful God and we are made in His image. His plan is fully adventure because He likes to display His faithfulness. I’m excited about God today. I’m excited to see what He’s going to do with me and the people around me, that we love. I am excited to see Jesus come. I’m excited about heaven. I’m excited about the glory that He will receive will every knee bows and every tongue confesses that He is LORD!

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true,
whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure,
whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

the trees will clap their hands

2008-04-24T14:13:00.000-04:00

Today we register for classes next year. I am praying that the process goes smoothly and that I get into all the classes I need to take. I’m certain God is going make it happen.

I’m so excited that Valerie is coming today. She is leaving for Wyoming at the end of May. We don’t see each other much now, but it’s only going to be harder to get together. I can’t wait to see her. God is so good.

It’s is a glorious day and we serve a glorious God! Jesus said if we do not praise Him the trees will clap their hands and the rocks will cry out. It would be sorta cool to witness creation so obviously praising God’s name, but it would be terribly embarrassing. We are God’s people, Jesus died for us, and we don’t take time to praise Him.

Live a worshipful life today and catch yourself truly believing God’s promises. I pray that God will increase our faith. Let’s call on the angels, the heavenly spheres, creatures of the deep, and the storms “fulfilling His Word.” May the young men and maidens praise His name together!

148:1 Praise the LORD!Praise the LORD from the heavens;praise him in the heights!
2 Praise him, all his angels;praise him, all his hosts!3 Praise him, sun and moon,praise him, all you shining stars!
4 Praise him, you highest heavens,and you waters above the heavens!
5 Let them praise the name of the LORD!For he commanded and they were created.
6 And he established them forever and ever;he gave a decree, and it shall not pass away.
7 Praise the LORD from the earth,you great sea creatures and all deeps,
8 fire and hail, snow and mist,stormy wind fulfilling his word!
9 Mountains and all hills,fruit trees and all cedars!
10 Beasts and all livestock,creeping things and flying birds!
11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,princes and all rulers of the earth!
12 Young men and maidens together,old men and children!
13 Let them praise the name of the LORD,for his name alone is exalted;his majesty is above earth and heaven.
14 He has raised up a horn for his people,praise for all his saints,for the people of Israel who are near to him.Praise the LORD!

some of the truth

2008-04-18T09:16:00.000-04:00

I love learning how to throw a Frisbee with Kate.

I love watching Beauty and the Beast with Lisa and Gretchen.

I love eating a sandwich in the sunshine.

I love looking up at the moon.

I love being reminded of God’s love.

I love studying in the evenings.

I love smiling just because.

I love sending packages.

I love learning how to trust Jesus.

I love talking on the phone in my stairwell.

I love remembering good things.

Intoxicated

2008-04-16T21:12:00.000-04:00

Walking back from HAL (the Hall of Arts and Letters) my steps were anything but straight. My eyes couldn’t focus on one thing first they gazed up to the heavens, and then at the numerous daffodils. My cheeks hurt from the smile that wouldn’t leave my face. I hummed a little tune which was frequently interrupted by laughter.

I called my friend Gretchen to set up a study date. The conversation was choppy due partly to my random comments about the glorious sky and partly to the giggles that couldn’t be silenced. I wasn’t making sense. I hung up the phone and realized that I sounded drunk, and it was a wonderful thought.I was walking back from a Psalm sing. Truly, nothing fills the longings of the human heart like the Psalms. Nothing brings joy like the word of God sung back to Him. The Lord reminded me tonight that His Psalms are intoxicating:

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Ephesians 5:18-21

Then there was a rainbow...

2008-04-12T16:14:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I enjoyed a lovely "fun day" with my girls. We went to the outlets and I got presents for my siblings. Lisa found $5 on the sidewalk so we decided God wanted us to stop and get icecream on the way back. We were even more convinced of the divine intervention when we discovered that Gretchen had never been to Dairy Queen.

After sharing a tin roof and a cheesequake blizzard we were happy girls. But it was still raining, and I mentioned that I wanted to see a rainbow. Lisa saw several when she was in Hawaii over Christmas break. *Sigh* I would love to go to Hawaii, maybe God has that in store.

Anyways, we got to the dorm and we decorated for the party. Dinner was rather uneventful, but on our way back to the room there was a rainbow. It was a huge bow of color arching through the sky boldly declaring that He loves us. I have never seen such a gorgeous display of promise. The rainbow was so bright that we could see it even against the clear blue sky. Needless to say the Lord took my breath away. He heard my request for a rainbow, and He decided to give us another reason to praise His holy name.

We walked back singing and enjoying the day that He had made. The party was a blast. We played Imagineiff, which is an excellent game. I discovered that I think too hard about things, and if I just step back and play the game I would not be behind all the time. That's ok.

We watched August Rush which I highly recommend. It's a very sweet movie. When I got back to my room I talked to Mom and sorta cleaned up my stuff. My thoughts turned back to the lovely rainbow in the sky. God keeps His promises. He's taken care of all the creatures. He has provided a Redeemer. The rainbow reminded me that Jesus Christ is King, and I have nothing to fear.

Rebekah got caught in the rain

2008-04-09T12:04:00.004-04:00

Rebekah’s skirt danced around her legs as she packed up her books and materials to take to the Hall of Arts and Letters. She drew in a deep breath of Cinnamon Vanilla nut coffee, and a smile played across her lips because the scent brought back memories of Christmas break and Scrabble with Margaret. She had noticed the dark clouds in the sky from her dormitory window but she didn’t grab her umbrella. She didn’t see the rain.

In her bulging flower bag she carried various folders and envelopes along with her computer. In the hall a few girls commented that their class was canceled due to wet weather. Rebekah laughed on the inside at the thought of class being called off on the account of spring rain. How lovely! As she approached the door she realized God was watering His earth. The question, “should I run for it?” played with her adventurous side and she decided to dash to class. Within a fraction of a second she was drenched. Her right hand gathered the flowing skirt and held it up. In her left hand was the precious coffee mug while her left arm she tried to protect the contents her open bag.

The rain fell and quickly ran through her hair and down her cheeks. Rebekah smiled up at heaven and thanked her Father for the mini adventure to class. People sorta laughed as they incountered the running girl with a huge skirt, stuffed flower purse, and well balanced coffee mug. It’s ok for people to laugh at her. She was in love and she was enjoying the special attention that Jesus was giving her today. He knows she loves the rain. He likes fill her heart with love for Him.

She got to class and the teacher asked if it was raining outside. Rebekah smiled, “yes, it was. Because He is taking care of me along with His beautiful world.”

Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyer!He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rian for the earth; he makes grass gorw on the hills. Psalm 147:7-8

He's Calling

2008-04-08T11:13:00.002-04:00

It’s a gorgeous day, and as many of you can testify, it is a whole lot easier to love God on a beautiful day. He made us from the earth, it’s no wonder that the weather impacts us. Hey, I’ve got a question for you. What’s your calling? Now, you may be thinking that you have yet to figure that out, and believe me I totally understand that. The question wasn’t necessarily directed at the people in the mid-fifties who have finally resorted themselves to that fact that they are done growing up and the work that God has given them is their life calling. The question is for them yes, but it was also for everyone. Even little Jerusha has a calling, and honestly, I think she fulfills her better than many of us.

To answer my own question, my calling is to love God with all of my heart, soul, strength, and mind. My calling entails spending time with God every moment of everyday. It also requires me to give myself to my studies. I am a student, for now this is my calling. There is more to a calling than an occupation. My calling is one of service. I am called to love those around me. I am to die to myself and live for Christ by living for others. My calling is to glorify Him. The opportunities to fulfill my calling today are endless.

Ok, so now that we are on the same page with what we mean by calling. Exactly how are your decisions going to reflect your calling? In what ways are you going to say “I want to glorify God today, and this is how I’m going to do that”? Life is more spiritual than we realize. Every moment we either choose to love God or to hate Him. There is no neutral ground. Today, how are you going to purpose to love Him?

Don’t think that I’ve got this figured out. It’s true that I’m a daughter of the King, but I’m adopted so this stuff doesn’t come naturally to me. It’s a hard process of sanctification, and from what gather it’s on going.

My parting thoughts: God doesn’t ever ask too much of us. Whatever it is that He has called you to today, He will sustain you. He is a big God and He has a big plan. We are simple minded creatures with limited plans. God has given His life for you, so don’t think that He is going to sit back and let you live yours exactly how you want. He is asking for everything, and expects nothing less.

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.”Romans 12:9-13

Questions

2008-04-05T23:34:00.003-04:00

Why is it that I can read the Bible for the 178th time and all the sudden my heart is wrenched with its power as if it were brand new?

How do I tell tearful Keziah, "yes, I wish I could hold you too Baby, but I can't" over the phone, 400 miles away?

Lord do you have a patterns for the clouds or do the angels come up with new designs every morning?

Why does Cinnamon Vanilla Nut coffee remind me of good things?

When do you know... and what is that like?

Does faith ever get easier?

Before the Fall were there seasons or did things just grow randomly all year round?

Why is it that fruit is such a sensory over load: taste, texture/touch, smell, color/sight, and yeah it can sound sort funky too?

What is this love that Jesus has for me and will I ever understand?

How does the heart work, and who can know it?

Does a growing up always mean so much pressure?

Lord, what are the names of the stars, and do we get to see the in heaven?

Could Adam and Eve cry, and if so why did you make them that way before there was pain?

What language will we speak in heaven?

Why is water clear?

How is it that I grew up with some of the best basketball players in the great city of Indianapolis and I still miss 80% of my attempted shots?

Could flowers be more any more exciting?

Can we look a life objectively, really?

Is fresh air fresh?

Why does God invite us into His presence?

*so many more questions*

Things I found out today...

2008-03-31T20:03:00.001-04:00

-My alarm sounds even when my phone is turned off.
-You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. trust in the LORD forever for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock. (Isaiah 26:3-4)
-Nothing makes Gretchen happier than readying her notes and finding out that she is at the end.
-Napping is a wonderful thing.
Love the Lord, all you his saints!
The Lord preserves the faithful
But abundantly repays the one who acts in pride.
Be strong, and let your heart take courage,
All you who wait for the Lord! Psalm 31:23-24
-Lisa is adorable when she’s grouchy.
-Hic-ups are so cute.
-I have amazing parents that take very good care of me.
-It’s important for a virtuous woman to be strong “she dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. (Pro. 31:17 *on my way to the gym*)
-The next six weeks are going to be crazy fun!
-God is near, especially when we are vulnerable.

Life and such

2008-03-26T09:43:00.000-04:00

Break has been lovely. I’ve gotten caught up with family and friends, so the next seven weeks shouldn’t be too bad. I’m ready to get back to work. I need to really concentrate on my schoolwork. The last few weeks before break were horribly hard but that was because all my midterms and papers were due at the same time. It won’t be that way anymore. Thanks for praying for me. I know at least some of you were, and I really appreciate it.

Luke, Beth, Anna and I are all driving to Pennsylvania on Monday. Luke got accepted to Grove City, and he’s going to be there this fall. I’m really excited to be out there with him. He’s an awesome guy and I’m so thankful that God is giving us some extra time to get close and hang out.

I did my first public school observation on Thursday and it was incredible. I loved being in the school. I visited Ms. Townsend’s 7th grade Social Studies class at North View Middle school. I’m learning how to be a teacher, and watching her renewed my passion. She had me grade her quizzes and it was interesting because grading takes a long time. I’m beginning to catch a glimpse of what teaching requires. I am excited. God knows what He’s doing, and I’m glad.

We have seven weeks until the end of the semester which means we are just past half way. I’m looking forward to improving some grades, picking up another work shift, maintaining a workout schedule, enjoying some fun times with friends, and getting to know my Risen Lord through faith. I’ve learned lately that Jesus really wants me to give myself 100% to task. I enjoy coasting on about 60%. I like to think I’m multitasking but I’m usually just being lazy. These next few weeks the goal is to be all there all the time. You know what I mean?

Ok I’m going to head to bed. Jesus Christ is risen. It is no small thing that He died for us, and that He lives. Just think, our Lord concurred death. No one can do that, but He did. I know that my Redeemer lives!

Oh, really quick, I’ll try to do better at posting. Sorry.

2008-03-10T07:39:00.002-04:00

"So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart." II Timothy 2:22

Sometime we like to trick ourselves into thinking that the Bible doesn't have much to say about some areas of our lives. What I have noticed is that I enjoy believing that lie when in reality I am just reading what I want to read. The Scriptures are packed full of truths that hit home so the question is not, for example, "why doesn't the Bible lay out a pattern for dating/courting, or even just guy/girl friendship?" Rather, the question is, "The Bible commands me to honor my parents, to flee youthful passion, to pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, and a maintain a pure heart. Therefore, how can I die to myself in order to obey my loving Father in Heaven?"

The truth is that often when we believe the Bible is unclear or "hard to understand" the meaning of the passage we are dealing with is a simple one, but it's hard for our deceitful hearts to submit. Yet there is strength to be found in the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised that His yoke is easy, and I can bear testimony that walking in the light is a delightful thing though at times it can cause frustration. The law is not to bind us but rather to free us.

May we find refuge in the Word and in His holy way. Pursue Him and you will not be disappointed.

Rebekah's Prayer

2008-03-03T10:50:00.001-05:00

Heavenly Father,
You are God and you have made this glorious creation. Thank you for the order and beauty of the world. Lord you have given each of your people a task to fulfill for the kingdom's sake. Right now you have placed me in college to learn. You are preparing me for a life of service. Lord God I am overwhelmed with the load of work I have before me this week. My exams and papers seem to be stacked up against me as a reminder of my weakness and dependence on you alone. Lord please get me through and may I be more than a conqueror through Him who loves me. I know that my grades play a insignificant part in the eternal spectrum. Yet I know that you require me to give 100% to my work so that you may be glorified. Please help me to run this race with my eyes on Jesus Christ. Thank you for being with me and for sustaining me through every moment of my life. Lord I am reminded that my days are numbered, therefore may this day be lived to the fullest for Jesus' sake. Lord please bless each of your children today. May we live out the truth of the Gospel so that men may see and come to you know the only true God. Lord thank you for loving me and filling my heart with an inexpressible joy.
In the name of the Perfect One who died on our behalf Jesus the Christ I pray.
Amen.

Compassion

2008-02-27T17:49:00.001-05:00

I walked into my Spanish Professor’s office with a bit of fear and trepidation. I knew that I didn’t do well on the last exam and she had asked me to come and talk with her. After going over the test and making a list of the things I need to master she asked if we could pray together. As we came before the throne of grace I was overwhelmed with her words of compassion. She kindly expressed to the Father that I was struggling and on my behalf she asked Him for help. I walked out of her office with a smile and a thankful heart.
I’ve had a few such experiences lately. The people of God have a powerful tool which brings a healing touch to the aching heart. When compassion is sincerely expressed it breaks down walls and lightens the load of this world.

Moms are especially good at compassion, but we should all try to master the second greatest commandment. Jesus looked on the crowds with compassion and we should follow in His steps. I have known for a long time that it’s good to love people and to be concerned for them. Paul says to “rejoice with those who rejoice, and to weep with those who weep.” I had forgotten how powerful it is to have someone look into my eyes with understanding, to speak words with tenderness, or to wrap me tight in a "I'm here for you" hug.

If you’re a Christian I call you to first of all enjoy the compassion that God has so graciously bestowed upon us through His Son. Secondly, be quick to show it to those in your path. The world is full of hurting people and we need to use the power of love to reveal Christ to those who need Him.

Things on my mind...

2008-02-23T00:04:00.003-05:00

I’m sorta working on school. As you may know I’m home right now because it’s our “spring” break. Sadly, I’ve been sick so my entire break has been spent in bed. Actually Mom and I went out tonight. We got caught up which was lovely. I miss her when I’m at school. I know everyone misses their Mom, but I miss her double because she my Mom and the most amazing person I know. *Thanks for the coffee and the talk Mom*

Ok, you know how I left my phone charger at school when I was home for Christmas (five weeks) well this time I left my computer cord. Yeah, really smooth move considering that I brought home about 8 hours worth of homework home with me. *Sigh* One of these days Rebekah is going to get her life together, until then thanks for loving her.

I’ve been learning so many things. God has sent me surprises lately. Tarah and I had a lovely trip to Indy. I’m really thankful for my funny little friend. *I love you Tarah* I'm looking forward to our trip back to Grove City.

These next few weeks at school are going to be intense. I’m nervous because the challenge will require me to give 100% but if I walk with the Lord I should hear is command “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” I have nothing to worry about. I need to learn to stand in awe of His awesome might.

Educational Psychology is a very interesting class. We have to analyze classroom scenarios and evaluate them according to various theories. It gets me excited about being a teacher. I find people intriguing. I am fascinated by what “makes a person tick”. My students are going to have very different backgrounds. Some of them will know love and some of them will not. My students may know Jesus already, but I’m guessing many of them will get their first glimpse of Him when they see Him in me. It’s a scary thought, but a very motivational one. I don’t know where I’ll teach. I don’t know what kind of students I will have, but I know that God will be with me, and I know that they will be needy kids with a intense craving for love. I also know that I’m praying for them. God may already be preparing their hearts for my classroom.

He is a big God and if we’re willing He has a plan for us. I’m working on being willing.

Well, I should get back to work. Enjoy your weekend, especially the Lord’s day.

Proverbs 22
"The rich and the poor meet together;
The Lord is the Maker of them all." vs. 2

"The reward for humility and fear of the Lord
is riches and honor and life." vs. 4

"Do not rob the poor, because he is poor,
or crush the afflicted at the gate,
for the Lord will plead their cause
and rob of life those who rob them." vs. 22-23

The End (Not really, we were just saying that)

2008-02-10T23:27:00.000-05:00

It’s been sorta crazy in MAP room 268 tonight. Alex got back this afternoon bearing roses, clean laundry and a forlorn look of love sickness. It’s ok, after about an hour she bounced back to the happy Alex. Ben is great, he makes her happy. I think that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
Jenna comes and goes about her business with interesting cracks as needed. We have affectionately dubbed her “Peanut Gallery” because she has an undying love for peanuts and she always has something to say. It’s ok, I gave her a Nutter Butter as a sign of my affection just last evening. Our window frosted over this evening because it is 3 degrees at Grove City, PA. It’s pretty, but painfully cold. I hope it warms up soon.I just got done doing a bit of letter writing, and now I am going to head to bed.
It’s going to be a crazy week. God will preserve us. We won’t kill each other, and if we do it’s not the end of the world at least two of us will get 4.0’s. Just kidding.
Well, that’s about the end. Lol.
Wait, I need to add that it has been a significant Lord’s day. Worship was amazing, and God has yet again proved Himself faithful to “Little Missy”. Thanks for your prayers on this front. May His name be praised forever and ever.

Learning to be thankful for...

2008-02-04T15:17:00.000-05:00

phone calls late at night.
waking up before dawn to meet with Jesus.
history being discovered in the trees.
the beauty of the Lord’s song.
the hall outside of tiny dorm room.
the importance of post.
little children in the church.
valentines Day, even if I’m still the president of Anti-Valentines day.
old maps.
my ability to remember.
the Scriptures giving us the story of “in the beginning.”
thousands of dirty dishes.
piles of Spanish homework.
the wisdom of Proverbs.
the effort to not communicate my emotions in my eyes.
the great commission to the church.
the truth spoken in love.
the beauty of water.
laughing at the future.
a God who heals.
the ability to learn.
promises that are never broken, regardless of my unfaithfulness.
heaven.
people that I miss.
discipline, because He is worth it.
a broken world that makes me rely on Jesus for my everything.
the cross.
a rain puddle.
my freedom.
the sunrise.
this glorious day, for it is the only one that I can do anything about.

Sometimes no one else will do

2008-01-28T22:47:00.000-05:00

There are those days when friends make the pain go away.
There are those days when dark chocolate and fuzzy socks bring comfort.
There are those days when a mug of coffee sooths all fear.
There are those days when a phone call brings a healing smile.
There are those days when a hug subdues all anxiety.
There are those days when a gift brings you to the top of the world.
There are those days when people understand.
There are those days when you feel great just because.
There are those days when the sun bakes away the stress.
There are those days when a garden speaks to the soul.
There are those days when a hot bath washes away the unkindness.
There are those days when the world brings happiness.
There are those days when a compliment works wonders.
There are those days when candles lift the burden.
There are those days when a conversation is saving grace.

...and then there are those days when
He is the only One who can make the pain go away.
He is the only One who can bring comfort.
He is the only One who soothes all fear.
He is the only One who brings a healing smile.
He is the only One who subdues all anxiety.
He ist he only Onw who brings you to the top of the world.
He is the only One who can understand.
Heis the only One who makes you feel great just because.
He is the only One takes away all the stress.
He is the only One who speaks to the soul.
he is the only One who washes away the unkindness.
He is the only One who brings happiness.
He is the only One who works wonders.
He is the only One who lifts the burden.
He is the only One who brings saving grace.

and on those days no One else will do.

more...

2008-01-22T16:03:00.000-05:00

It's been an interesting day. I just got back from Foundations of Education 2 with Dr. Mackey and I am smiling. The Lord sent me to Grove City for a reason. I walked out of his class last semester inspired to be a life changing teacher. Today was no different. It was so refreshing to hear him challenge us to trust God with all things. He encouraged us to walk God's path, and to consider that God gives us truth on a need to know basis. He has given me what I need to know, and now it's a matter of doing what He has asked of me. Dr. Mackey pointed out that when we are frustrated with not knowing (things that we want to know) we need to ask ourselves the question, "what do I know?" and "what am I doing with the truth God has given me?" It was convicting and awesome.

Alex and I went to class together because she has decided to seriously consider Bio Ed. She will be in class with me this semester which is really exciting. I have no doubts that God wants me here studying Sec. Ed. Social Studies. It's going to be a bit harder than I expected, but God has a way of taking us through hard stuff to make us stronger for His sake. I'm really excited about this semester. God is an awesome God.

Well, I have some books to buy and some homework to accomplish so I am going to head out. Thanks for the prayers and for caring in general. Please keep my Mom in prayer. She is getting some more tests done this week. Pray that God will show the doctors what do, and would give my Mom relief from the pain. Thanks.

Grace and Peace be with you in Jesus Christ our Lord.

"Now, therefore, if you will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then you shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people; for all the earth is mine." Exodus 19:5
(We just discussed this verse in class =)

I just found out...

2008-01-21T10:16:00.000-05:00

Today I checked my mail today (eager for graded papers from last semester) and found a envelope from the Central Blood Bank of Pennsylvania. They thanked me for giving blood, last September, and told me that my blood type was O+. I did a little research and although O- is the best as far as donating goes because everyone, no matter their blood type, can use O- blood, there can be complications with multiple pregnancies. When a mother is O- and the baby has a different blood type than her, than she can develop antibodies to the fetus. I don't exactly understand exactly how it works, but I'm glad that I'm not O- because from what I've gathered it means more shoots and a little more to be concerned about when one enters motherhood. O+ is the second more versatile blood type, which is great. I find it all very interesting and I'm really glad that I know my blood type. I plan on giving blood as soon as the opportunity arises.

Well I've attend two of my six classes. World History 2 is going to be hard, but wonderful. We love Dr. Graham. Biblical Revelation is awesome! I'm going to start working on my paper today. The hardest part is going to be picking a topic. I love the Bible and pretty much anything that has to do with it, so writing a thesis paper on really any part of the Bible will be fantastic.

I have two more classes today: Educational Psychology and Spanish 102. They are going to be a it harder I think. Generally speaking I think this semester is going to be involved but not difficult. I don't think any of my classes are going to be hard to understand but rather they are going to require a good deal of time and determination. I'm really looking forward to this semester.

I plan on working somewhere. Making money is generally a good plan. I tried to pursue something year but I didn't follow through. This time it's not an option. I think I'll get working on that right away.

I'm really thankful to the Lord for this day. On the way here Elaine and I were talking about how important it is to view each day as the one day that God has given. The past and future are in His hands (and the present too) but the present it what He has set before us to spend "as we wish". When I woke up this morning I immediately prayed "Jesus, thank you for this day. May it be the best day, and may I consider You in all things." If I begin every day that way for this entire semester it will make all the difference. He is a mighty King and He wants to use people who are willing to do what He has asked. Let us be willing.

Well, I'm going to go. May God bless you and keep you. Surrender all to Him. He is a kind and careful Lord.

Ready.... Set.... GO!

2008-01-18T09:07:00.000-05:00

I have thoroughly enjoyed my Christmas break. I'm heading back to Grove City, and I'm excited about the upcoming semester. I hope to excel in my classes. I don't expect them to be too difficult with the exception of Spanish 102. If you think of it please pray that I will catch on quickly and that I will be diligent to master the language.

I have lots of goals this semester. I want to spend more time reaching out to the people around me. It's so easy to get self-focused on a college campus, but Jesus has called me to serve. I intend to seek out ways to do that so that I can demonstrate His love. Being home has really helped me get everything back in perspective. I am confident that God has me at Grove City for my good and His glory. It is a lovely feeling to be sure of God's pleasure. I am eager to pour my heart into my studies again. Being a student is delightful. Sure we complain about it but when the Nerd truly comes out it is discovered that we enjoy learning.

I have missed everyone. It's going to be a great semester. God is so good. He has established my heart and I am eternally grateful for His grace. I don't know what you are going through right now but I hope that your eyes are fixed on Jesus Christ. He is a glorious Savior, and worthy of our undivided attention and affection. Spend His day with Him. May God bless you in every way.

It has occurred to me...

2008-01-03T14:14:00.000-05:00

that it's smart to honor my parents.

that life is full of surprises.

that God is so great and so glorious that we will never be able to praise Him enough.

that my heart is "whiter than snow" and snow glistens in the light.

that it's nice having a five week long Christmas break.

that Keziah is the most adorable person I know.

that sometimes it's good to sleep.

that I have really great friends.

that it's 2008.

that fun is relative.

that honesty is the best policy.

that I need to watch Amazing Grace (again).

that I'm thankful to be an American.

that there is pain in this world.

that there's a time for everything.

that my Redeemer lives!

I'm Home... Again

2007-12-30T09:02:00.001-05:00

We just got back from Winter Conference. Cooking was fun. Margaret and I spent some much needed time together. I am not sure I could take on the task by myself, but I'm willing to do it again. I think everyone in my family had a good time. I suppose you should ask them if you want to know.

We are all getting ready to go to church. I hate living in two places at once. I mean, it's not like I am actually in Grove City right now but all my stuff is. It's ok, I'm glad I'm at school. God is good.

I put on some hymns to listen to while I write and the girls get ready. My favorite track started, The Old Rugged Cross. I've heard some people have theological issues with it. Do you know what they are?

This morning in Sunday school Pastor Johnston wants to interview Cindy, Julie and I so that the high school kids get a taste of what to expect when they leave for college. I don't really feel prepared to answer questions about the last semester. It was all so fast and crazy. God was teaching me, but I'm not exactly sure what. I need to spend some time relaxing and considering what He has been doing with me and how I should approach the next semester. There were some goals that I set which were totally forgotten mostly because they were unrealistic. I didn't know what to expect at college. I'm going to make some new goals for the spring.

This morning I realized that there is a reason why people have beds. Well, I've been sleeping on a mattress on the floor which is fine, but my pillow is usually not completely on the mattress when I wake up. Beds help keep you and all your stuff on the mattress. I guess I'm more of an active sleeper than I realized. At school I don't give myself much room to move (side to side) because I have a body pillow on one side of me and a long light on wall to my right.

Happy New Years! I've got to go to church.

Once Upon a Time

2007-12-22T22:17:00.000-05:00

Tonight I’m sitting in “my” room trying to digest some Christmas food before taking a run. We just got back from Harrington Christmas. It’s fun to get caught up with uncles and cousins. I was reminded of Nonnie. I have been missing her lately. It’s not that I wish her back, but it makes me look forward to Heaven a little more. I wonder what she would think of all of us. She died before Jerusha and Keziah were born, almost eight years ago actually. She would be thrilled to know that I’m at Grove City studying Secondary Education concentrating in Social Studies. She used to give lots of hugs at our house, and I miss that. She wouldn’t really be helpful, in fact she made my mom really tired most of the time. Her spirit was encouraging. I have never met someone more excited about God’s faithfulness. She was a woman who had been through much suffering, and she was in love with her Savior. She loved her family. She loved my Mom.

I went evangelizing last night with Gary, Jennifer, and Austin. It was quite the time. We didn’t get into too many conversations with people, but it seemed there was a general interest in the tracts. It was good to be reminded of the Gospel again. I get so focused on myself at school that I forget the power of Christ and my dependence upon His work. I forget to share the good news.

Thursday was the CYA dinner. It was fun. I have some pictures that I’m going to put up on my picture blog. It was good to see people.

It’s nice being home. I plan on working but I’m going to wait until after next week because I’m cooking at Winter Conference. Basically I’ve just been helping out since I’ve been home. Being at school and then coming home is a very weird transition. I live in two different worlds and I almost feel like I’m going to wake up from a dream. I miss friends at school.
Please keep praying for my Mommy. She doesn’t feel well. God is the great healer and He knows exactly what is wrong even if the doctors can’t find it. Please pray that we will all be sensitive to her. Please pray He will sustain her in her time of need. God have mercy on my Mom.

Christmas is a rather sentimental time of year. I like it. I’m looking forward to going to worship at “my” church tomorrow. It’s fun coming home.

Alright, I think I’ll go take that run.

Peace be with you in Christ Jesus.

A Day of Rest

2007-12-16T09:17:00.000-05:00

Here I sit in my “Sunday Best” with fresh hot coffee next to me. My phone is charging so that when I call my family this afternoon I can talk to anyone and everyone. It’s snowing outside and Lisa was afraid to drive so Mr. Joseph is coming to get us which is kind of him. I’m glad I get to go to church.
I love the Lord’s day. I love waking up and realizing that it’s a day of rest. I love getting my eyes off myself, off my studies, off my issues and focusing them on Christ… for a whole day. God knew what He was doing when He blessed the Lord’s Day. He knew that we needed to take a day for Him. According to my Psychology text book studies show that the human body was programmed to rest 1/7 of their waking hours. They mentioned that though this could be spread out over several days, taking one day to rest is the most fulfilling. Don’t you love when it when non-believers find proof of God’s love? He knew that I would do better on my finals if I take today for Him. He knew that we get so caught up in our work the other six days that it’s difficult to truly focus on Christ. He knew that if we gathered together as a body of believers we would be encouraged. He knew that if we heard His word proclaimed and His songs sung we would be that much more eager to serve Him. God knew.
Enjoy your Sabbath rest.

There is Nothing Like It

2007-12-14T10:43:00.000-05:00

I just walked out of my Micro Economics final. We won’t know for sure until I get my grade back, but I fairly confident that I have an A. God is good. I have been blessed to grow up with a great economist as a father, and I’m sure that helped. *sigh* I ran always the back to my dorm with arms outstretched like the world was my oyster. Sure I have four more to go but this was a good one to start with, because I walked out with head held high. What can I say, I serve a great God?!
I can’t decide what I should do next. I have a Humanities final tomorrow at 2 and a Physics final at 7. I have lots of time to study, but I have lots to study. Maybe I’ll go for a run, take a nap, and then hit the books. I don’t know. Maybe I’ll make some headway in my Bible reading (I’m trying to get through it as fast as I can). Oh, I would be negligent to forget to thank you all for your prayers. I know full well that I had people praying for me this week and this morning. God hears us in the name of Jesus, and we are to come bolding to the throne room.
I’ll keep you posted. Please don’t stop praying.
Peace to you in Christ Jesus.

I Wanna Come Home

2007-12-09T17:18:00.000-05:00

It's almost Christmas time. Little children believe that Santa is coming. People run around buying presents for one another. All the college students study their brains out for finals. It's almost Christmas time. I wanna come home.

I miss everyone this round. I was doing good until Thanksgiving break. It whet my appetite, "just let me come home". I finished my History paper yesterday. It feels so good to be done, although it was fun to write. I got to think through how Jesus Christ liberated women. It was sort of inspiring really.

We don't start finals until Friday. I'm not feeling well which isn't helping anything. I just want to curl up with a good book by a fireplace and read until I fall asleep. It will come soon enough; I just need to be patient.

I gotta go home.

Ok so I'm being a little whinny. I'm sorry. Jenna says that my illness has made me grouchy. She might be right. It's doesn't help that I am listening to Michael Buble's Home. Please pray for my Mommy. She doesn't feel well and she has a lot to do.

Well let's play a game. How about we count our blessings. I will get us started and then you can finish ok? I think it's a good thing for the children of God to be a thankful people. Here are some of our blessings from God:

Christmas and all the warm happy memories that are associated with our Savior's birth.

Freedom to worship God on His Day with His people.

Cell phones that allow us to stay in touch with the ones we love when we are far away.

Birthdays for little precious people like Jerusha Grace (she'll be six).

Postal service that enables us to send cards and packages to important people on their birthdays and such.

Rest amidst all the chaos of the season we can find rest in Christ especially on His day of rest.

Warm tea that helps us feel better when the world is so cold and our bodies are so uncooperative.

Hope when all the world is crying out in pain we have assurance in the glory and peace to come.

Photos that help us remember to pray for dear friends and family and give us more reasons to be thankful.

Love that binds us and gets us through this life. The Bible was true when it said, "Love never fails." "What manner of love is this that we should be called the children of God? But so we are."

Microsoft Word which gives us the ability to write papers in half the time and helps us with citation.

Prayer our petitions are made know to the Father. When we pray in thankfulness the peace of Jesus Christ guards our hearts and minds.

Peace which surpasses understanding.

Gifts not that it's all about material things, but gifts are nice. They are another expression of love.

Vehicles so we don't have to talk to church in this kind of weather.

Music which is God's way of communicating with our souls on a whole different level.

and the greatest blessing of all...

Jesus He left Heaven to come to earth to live the life we couldn't live, and to die the death we were doomed to die. Thank you Jesus Christ for Your sacrifice.

Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those
with whom He is pleased.

An Update:

2007-12-04T13:17:00.000-05:00

Grove City tucked under 5 inches of snow this afternoon. The peaceful flakes are still falling. They like to get caught in my hair as I walk to class, even though they are cold they make me happy. God didn’t have to make every snow flake unique, but He did.

At three o’clock I will be completing my last official LAB! It is a reason for great rejoicing.
We turned in our Foundations of Education project summary today. I am glad our project is over. Dr. Mackey assured us that teaching usually doesn’t take an average of 12 hour prep time per lesson. *Sigh* I’m excited to teach, but it’s going to be a lot of work.

Tonight I am going to try to finish my paper for History class. My basic thesis is that Christianity liberated women in Rome. It’s an interesting paper. There are sad elements to it. The more I study History the more convinced I am of human depravity. Abortion was just as prevellant in Rome as it is today. The worst part is women were far less likely to survive an abortion. On the flip side, History reminds me of God’s sovereign grace. Women were liberated from the oppression of Rome due to the new identity in Christ.

God has been working with me lately. He loves me and He wants to mold me into His image. It hurts sometimes. I have to trust that he knows what He’s doing. I don’t know how people go through life without the comfort and reassurance that a good and loving God is in control. He will have His way.

Ok, I’m going to get back to work.
Peace be with you in Christ Jesus.

These are a few of my favorite things!

2007-11-26T16:56:00.000-05:00

-A successful planning meeting for our education presentation.

-A few pointers for my History test (from the professor of course).

-A big green apple that fills me up for lunch.

-Colored pens that help me organize my notes.

-Warm hoodies on cold soggy days.

-Catching up with the people I've missed.

-Emails from my Mommy (she misses me already).

-Getting asked "how was break?"-Getting to answer, "It was the most amazing break ever!"-Being truthful.

-Finding out that 3 weeks from tomorrow I'll be home for Christmas.

-Getting 100/100 on my nutrition project.

-Receiving an invitation to the CYA Formal Dinner in my GCC mailbox.

-Eating Reformed Dinner.

-Having homework done (I worked really hard over break).

-Coming back to a clean/organized room.

-Seeing Chris at church, and praying that he will come back (I met him in Broad Ripple on Friday night).

-Asking questions and working on the answers.

-Knowing that "from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen."

To Love with Open Hands

2007-11-22T20:17:00.000-05:00

God wants me to learn is how to love with open hands. As soon as I snatch “my” blessings with a tight grip I am acting childish. Our first words are often “No! Mine.” God often get’s that from me a lot. He gives me everything and then instead of gratitude and submission I give Him attitude and complaining.

I am a selfish girl and it is easy for me to get way ahead of the game. I like to play God’s part. I like to figure out how it will all work. He needs to be the one in charge. I need to trust Him. He is all knowing, and I am not. I don’t know why it’s hard for me to put two and two together and trust Him. It is the most logical way. He is all good. I am not. Therefore He would be the one with the good plan. He is all powerful and I am not. Therefore, His plan will actually happen and mine will not. There is a reason why we are called sheep in the Bible. I have stupid tendencies.

On this Thanksgiving Day I have been pondering the importance of love. The word itself is hard to define in the English language. As soon as I think I have figured out what love is I find great holes in my understanding. Jesus knows what love is. He said that the greatest love is when a man lays down his life for His friend. Then He said we are His friends. Love is powerful. Jesus and the Father hold us in their hands, but see Jesus’ hands were always open to the Father. He was always speaking of the Father’s will. John 17 has a lot to say about love and the way that we are to love people within God’s plan for them. Jesus really loves us. He really loves the Father.

When I say that I am learning to love with open hands I mean that God is the one that actually holds people in His hands, and He sometimes lets me have a portion of His blessing (which is still in His grip). He will never let go. If I were to hold them with clenched fist… well I can’t because that is what God is doing. I have to hold my hands open before the Lord. It is His job to protect, guide, and deal with the people that we love. Yes, we. The Father and I love the same people. I have never thought about that before. The love I have is directly from Him. It is frustrating because my love is so imperfect compared to His. Oh that I would be more like Jesus. He came here to serve not be served, and to give His life. I hope that as I grow in the Lord I will be here to serve. I hope that I will be here to give my life.

My hands are open Lord. Please lead me. Please teach me. Please show me love. Lord break my selfish will and cause me to know to cry “Yes! Yours.”

A Broken Moon

2007-11-19T18:20:00.001-05:00

Tonight Keziah and I were out swinging, well actually she was swinging and I was pushing, but that’s besides the point. It was fun because she wouldn’t stop smiling. She has the most beautiful smile. At one point I grabbed her and the swing and just held her.
She said, “What are you going to do now.”
I whispered, “I don’t know. What are you going to do?”
She just giggled.
“Kez look, it’s the moon!”
“Oh, I see it. Aww… it’s broken.”
I smiled one of those broad smiles that is meant to communicate amusement to someone. Keziah didn’t understand why I was so pleased. After a moment I reassured her that the moon would get better. She decided to comfort the moon with the new information.“It’s ok Moon, your Mommy is going to fix you soon.” No wonder we have to have child like faith to enter into the kingdom of Heaven. Lord make me more like a child. Let me learn how to trust You to fix the moon.

This is why it’s good to come home. In college there seems to be lots of discussion, but the practicality of our conversation is minimal. We confuse ourselves with big words and loads of information/data. In the end, I think often times kids get it right.

I love you Keziah, and I’m really glad that I can spend some time with you this week.

Abraham

2007-11-05T09:45:00.000-05:00

On Saturday Lisa and I went to Wal-Mart to buy some presents for Abraham. I don’t know him, in fact I don’t know his name. I simply gave him one to be more personal. I don’t like saying, “I’m making a bracelet for my box.” I would rather say, “I’m making a bracelet for Abraham.” I chose the name Abraham because he was called out of a foreign land. He worshiped strange gods. He was a man of faith who loved God and obeyed even when the Gospel wasn’t entirely clear. God chose Abraham. God made him great. I am praying that in the same way God will call my little Abraham and raise him up to be a “father of nations”.
Operation Christmas Child is something I’ve done before. This year is a little different though. First, it’s basically a requirement in my Foundations of Education class to put a box together. Second, I love Abraham. He is 5-9 years old. That’s all I know. Wait, I know a little more. I know that God has preordained that he receive my box of gifts. I know that he will receive the Gospel, maybe for the first time when he is handed his box. I know that God hears my prayers for him, and I believe (though I don’t know) that Jesus is praying for him.

As I packed the toy cars and a bar of soap into the shoebox I imagined meeting him in Heaven. I don’t think I will get to meet him here on earth, but I’m praying for his salvation. I’m praying also that God will use him as a leader for His people. I’m praying that this young man will grow up to be a messenger of the Gospel. God knows. I will pray to the Lord of the Harvest.
I’m making Abraham a Wordless Book bracelet:
First a stripe of black representing the darkness of our hearts
Next red for Christ’s blood shed on our behalf.
White follows, because our hearts are washed clean by His love.
Blue is fourth (I think I added this one) it stands for the peace that we have in the Holy Spirit.
Green comes next, and it represents how we grow in faith as believers.
Finally yellow, or gold shows us the glory that we will enjoy forever with Him.

I am going to explain all of this in a letter to Abraham. I hope he wears the bracelet and is reminded of God’s goodness and his need for a Savior. Yellow is at the end, but it could also be at the beginning because it’s a continuing pattern. It would be important to emphasis God’s holiness when addressing our sin. Yes, yellow stands for God’s righteousness as well.

I wish I could explain it to him personally. I wish I could invite him over the play with my brothers and take him out for ice cream and ask him what he wants to do with his life. Little boys love ice cream, and it makes them not mind hard questions as much. At least that has been my experience.

I am sending him a picture, and a long letter. They say sometimes the children write back. That would be amazing. We shall leave it with the Lord.

I did buy Abraham and me matching coffee mugs. I don’t think that he will be drinking coffee yet, but I needed a $1.97 green coffee mug since I left mine at home, and I thought he would like to have his own cup with a lid on it as well. He can take it to school and it will keep his water cool. I thought it would be fun to match because that way when I drink coffee I will remember to pray for him. I also bought him a T-shirt. It’s probably too big, but I figure if he’s nine then it will fit, and if he’s five then he will have to grow into it. It’s amazing how wealthy we are in this country. If I gave a little boy these things in America he would find them rather boring. Abraham will be thrilled to receive toothbrush/toothpaste, candy, tennis balls, small toys, paper, crayons- among other things. I hope it shows him that I love him. I hope he realizes that I really am praying for him.

It’s exciting to serve an international God. He loves all kinds of people, and I don’t know where in the world Abraham is, but God knows. God is looking out for him. It’s exciting.
Ok, I’m going to get back to work.

Good Morning!

2007-11-02T06:23:00.000-04:00

Can you believe it's already November 2?! It's kinda exciting. Well, this next week of school I have basically nothing due, but the week before Thanksgiving there's like a test/paper in every class so I have to work on preparation which can be a difficult motivator.

God is faithful. We were talking in Biblestudy Wednesday night how He constantly reminded the Israelites of his presence with the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night. I realized that although I don't have such "supernatural" evidence, when I like to the sky I am reminded of God and who He is- what He's done. The Psalms have a lot to say about the firmament declaring his praise. We are so blessed to be a part of the New Covenant. We get to enter the Holy of Holies at any time in any place. God has ripped the curtain. He has invited us to the throne room of heaven. Jesus is at His right hand interceding for us. We are forgiven. We are loved. Praise the Lord!

Ok, I'm going to get ready for class.

Human Blood and Sacrifice

2007-10-29T10:16:00.001-04:00

“The outcome of every fight is death, and the means are fire and sword. You may retort: "But he was a highway robber, he killed a man!" And what of it? Granted that, as a murderer, he deserved his punishment. What crime have you committed poor fellow that you should deserve to sit and see this show? In the morning they cried, "Kill him! Lash him! Why does he strike so feebly? Let him receive blow for blow, with chests bare and exposed to the stroke!"

This is a piece written by Seneca in Rome about the human sacrifice in the Arena. Men and women went to watch the show for entertainment. We look on them in disgust. How could people find such brutality enjoyable? Yet, do we not pay to watch such violence today? You say it's just a show, people aren't really getting hurt. Yet, it looks real doesn't it? What is the motivation that the movie makers have to produce such films? Does it not have to do with this human lust for blood?

At this Halloween time I have been considering why our culture has such a fascination with human blood. In studying for my History test on Wednesday I came across human sacrifice in other civilizations. The Aztecs are known for their mass killings. They believed that blood was the drink of the sun, and in order to continue life on earth they had to offer up thousands of human lives.

They are not alone in their philosophy though the specifics are altered Hitler followed in their footsteps offering up millions to the god of racial purity. In our own country and around the world the blood of unborn children is offered to the gods of convenience and affluence.

We are a depraved race. The sins of the Romans and the Aztecs mortify us, but they do not keep us from committing the same heinous acts ourselves, and we do so on a much larger scale.

Seneca was right in asking of our crime. We sit and watch in a distorted pleasure at violence just like the Romans in the Arena. Our crime I would suggest to you is the crime of the human race. We have spit in the face of God and He in turn has let us glory in our sin. When a person does not (or cannot) love the Lord with all his heart, soul, mind and strength then he cannot love his neighbor as himself. In fact, we are doomed to hatred unless divine human blood is shed on our behalf.

I wonder if there is some general revelation engrained in men making them aware that God required blood. Since they were/are lacking special revelation (or at least an understanding of it) they do their best to satisfy their awareness by making their own rules. They obviously fail miserably.

I was thinking of all this and ended up talking to Dr. Graham about it for a while. He helped me think it through in the context of History. I suppose some of these thoughts are his and I have adopted them. Giving credit where it's due he believes that there must be some human understanding of a blood sacrifice because it's seen over and over again in human civilizations. The issue is intensely important and extremely confusing. In closing I appeal to the inspired word of God:

"Behold, You were angry, and we have sinned;
In our sins we have been a long time,
and shall we be saved?"
Isaiah 64:5

"And the Lord said, "What have you done? The voice of your brother's blood is crying to me from the ground."

Genesis 4:10

"And to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel."

Hebrews 12:24

Lovely:

2007-10-25T12:57:00.000-04:00

It's lovely:
The suns rays gently warming my face as I wake up for another day.

It's lovely:
Drinking coffee for breakfast when I've gone a day without it.

It's lovely:
Sitting by my friend Esther in Physics class- giggling at our absentminded professor.

It's lovely:
Taking a warm shower at the end of a hard day- washing my skin clean.

It's lovely:
Jenna being my spotter so I can do a backbend.

It's lovely:
Getting emails from Mom and Jennifer- they love me.

It's lovely:
Studying in the Library and seeing friends every once in a while- (maintains sanity).

It's lovely:
Being at a school where we spend time studying the "Master Teacher" in Found. Ed class.

It's lovely:
Looking forward to a weekend spent with old friends and cousins.

It's lovely:
Singing God's word with God's people- and being overcome.

It's lovely:
Having the perfect workout buddy *thank you Lisa*

It's lovely:
An American flag with a painted sky behind it (and remembering freedom don't come free).

It's lovely:
A hot-air balloon with happy people riding in it.

It's lovely:
Wearing my pink rainboots to class and jumping in all the puddles.

It's lovely:
Physics class ending for the week.

It's lovely:
Almost forgetting to put the detergent in the wash, almost.

It's lovely:
Drinking a glass of cold chocolate milk and warm coffee interchangeably.

It's lovely:
Making a plan for the day and actually pulling through with it.

It's lovely:
Being best friends with my roommates.

It's lovely:
The prospect of bringing friends home for a weekend.

It's lovely:
Realizing that Jesus wants us to "rejoice in this: that your names are written in the book of life."

It's lovely:
Rejoicing in Him.

It's lovely:
A long drink of water from a cup that hides my face when I'm stressed out and/or about to cry.

It's lovely:
Hearing the gospel preached in chapel and thanking Jesus that it's true.

It's lovely:
Getting a anonymous note in the mail '"And all things, whatever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." Matt 21:22 TODAY I PRAYED FOR YOU.'

It's lovely:
Being convinced to the depths of my soul that He is with me, and that He is faithful.

It's lovely:
This day that I have been given.

Good Morning

2007-10-23T06:04:00.001-04:00

I don't have much to say, so perhaps I shouldn't write a note because I may end up saying something that I didn't want to say. Well, I suppose I'm writing anyway.

Last weekend was fall break. It was nice. My family is as crazy as ever. I got to hang out with friends and see people at church which was wonderful. It all ended rather quickly, and now I'm back here.

I am really enjoying school. People ask me, "Becca, how are you, really?" Really, I'm doing great. My classes are hard, but this is college and if it were easy there would be something to worry about. I have some incredible friends. My roommates and I have our ups and downs, but right now we are getting along splendidly. I love my professors, and I our beautiful campus. It's strange how normal it feels to walk to class or share a bathroom with 50+ girls. I hoped and dreamed about this time of my life for years, and now it's here. God has given me an opportunity to learn at Grove City College and I'm thankful.

He's been teaching me something about the way He works. God likes to use our faith to make things happen. The faith is a fruit of the Holy Spirit, so in a way it's His faith, but when we trust Him and act on that trust He loves to "wow" us with His power. He has got it all under control. I just have to believe Him. It's should be an easy burden, because between the two of us He is by far the more faithful.

I'm learning. Thanks for praying. I finished mid-terms and so far my results have been pleasing. God be praised. I don't have anything pressing this week just a lot of studying and reading to catch up on.

May God bless and keep you.

Suffering People

2007-10-13T13:05:00.000-04:00

Last night I watched Freedom Writers. I was blown away by the pain and violence that kids experience in urban schools. We had to watch the movie for Education class. The teacher basically drew her students together and gave them the hope that they needed to rise above the gangs and hatred that they grew up in.

It was startling to watch the true story unfold. These were highschool kids and they witnessed murder, abuse, and sever discrimination on all sides. My heart hurt for them. I wanted to be a teacher who could change these lives and break the pattern of violoence.

Yet, there was a another side to the coin. The teacher in the movie sacrificed everything for these kids. She ends up enduring a devorce because she spends so much time and enegry on her students. She doesn't have a life outside the classroom. I didn't like that. I'm not ready to give everything up a roomfull of highschool kids.

This morning we went to a Step into Africa Exibit at the local YMCA. We put on headphones and "became" an African child. We walked slowly through a maze of dirty rooms and jungle trails. We ended up in a Clinic to be tested for Aids. I was Immanuel. I was HIV negative, but my mother and father died of Aids. I lived with my older brother Frank who took care of me. He was only 9.

Walking out of that exhibit my whole body ached. The pain endured by so many people around the world is a burden that Christ alone can bear. There is so much to be done, but where can a girl begin? Am I to teach in the inner city and dedicate the next few years of my life to pouring everything I've got into my students? Am I to follow a call to a distant land and help people understand the love of Christ amidst the suffering and pain of this present world.

Regardless of the future I am here at Grove City College now. I am to serve God by being diligent in my work, by reaching out to those around me, and by being faithful in keeping His commandments. I was nervous watching the movie last night, and even more so standing in line to enter the exhibit this morning. "To whom much is given, much is required." I have been given much.

Now the question is, what is required? What does God want to do with me? What am I willing to do for Him?

"Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thristy and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me. I was naked and you clothed me. I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.'

Then the righteous will answer Him,
"Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,
or thirsty and we gave you drink?
And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you,
or naked and clothe you?
And when did did we see yo usick or in prison and visit you?"

And the King will answer them,
"Truly, I say to you as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers,
you did it to me."

Matthew 25:34-40

Thank You

2007-10-12T10:21:00.000-04:00

Thank you for giving us Zorro for a time.
Thank you for the fun and enjoyment we had with him.
Thank you for friends near and far.
Thank you for truth that stands the test of time.
Thank you for wet rainy days.
Thank you for my rainboots.
Thank you for tight "I love you this much" hugs.
Thank you for placing me on this beautiful campus.
Thank you for getting me through... everything.
Thank you for your Word.
Thank you for laughter.
Thank you for warm flannel sheets.
Thank you for Rose Point Reformed Presbyterian Church.
Thank you for Fall Break.
Thank you for this upcoming Lord's day.
Thank you for giving your "loved ones sleep".
Thank you for being faithful.
Thank you for yellow envelopes.
Thank you for tea.
Thank you for love.
Thank you for the hope of eternity.
Thank you for family.
Thank you for all the things I'm forgetting.
Thank you.

What I was thinking on this day... interesting

2007-10-10T00:24:00.001-04:00

On this day three years ago:
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work; you nor you son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it. Exodus 20:8-11

How quick we are to forget this command God gave us. As covenant children we do treat Sunday differantly. But do you really remember the Lord's words? Even in worship, sometimes I am more focused on the people around me then on God. It is a problem. We could all use a challenge in this area.

This day two years ago:
*Dreamy huge smile*
Hello,
My name is Rebekah and I love living. For the past several months (and longer actually if you really think about it,) I have been rather upset with the reality of my life. It's true, to my shame I have complained and sighed over how much work and struggle was required of my life. It's not that way right now. God is faithful to His people.*Another huge dreamy smile* I am just excited about His plans. He has so many good things worked out for us, and if we, if I am willing to sacrifice my desires and preferences to His will, life will be beautiful in ways I can't imagine.This week is not going to be easy, but who said it would be?! I am living for God, and that should be evident by the quality of my work, the smile on my face, and the kindess of my actions. Alissa and I were just talking about how dependant a "good day" is on attitude not circumstance. Honestly, the difference between good days and bad days can be nothing at all other than my heart attitude. It makes all the difference in the world. Hi, my name is Rebekah and I am a daughter of the King!"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mrecy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith-more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire-may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen Him, you love Him. Though you do not seen Him now, you believe in Him, and rejoice with a joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls."I Peter 1:3-9
May grace and peace be multiplied to you,
Rebekah

On this day a year ago:
Good Morning,
I'm glad you're awake. I'm glad you're smiling. I'm glad you have a reason to live today. I'm glad that you are my friend. I'm glad that God has blessed you, even if you don't know exactly how. I'm glad that today we're one day closer to Heaven. I'm glad that we get to serve Him. I'm glad that He loves us. I'm glad that He takes care of us. I'm glad that He has a day that is just for Him. I'm glad that it's fall. I'm glad that I get to go to school today, and that on Thursday I don't have to. I'm glad that I'm done with my lab report (all 8 pages of it!) I'm glad that I am feeling well. I'm glad that it's a beautiful day. I'm glad that you called. Oh, wait maybe you have yet to do that, but I'm glad that you will. I'm glad that God has me at 2RP. I'm glad that He knows best. I'm glad that our pastors are willing to follow His lead. I'm glad that I'm learning. I'm glad that yesterday we got to worship Him, and have communion. I'm glad that I can understand the Word He's given me. I'm glad that there are wiser men to explain it when I don't understand. I'm glad that I can love. I'm glad that I am loved. I'm glad that I have a duty in the Kingdom. I'm glad that I'm a daughter of the King.
A Happy Girl,
Rebekah Ann

"O happy people who are thus, o happy people who can say they have the LORD to be their God!" Psalm 144.

I joyed when to Jehovah's house, "Go up," they said to me Smiles

2007-10-07T23:11:00.000-04:00

It's been one of those days that will be burned in my memory as lovely and unique. We serve a lovely and unique God, and today was His day. It seems appropriate that it be a lovely and unique day does it not?

This morning I worshiped with the Rose Point congregation. We are facing various issues, and yet this morning we heard the Gospel preached and we were able to praise God together. It was wonderful. After church we ate lunch at the Weather's house. It was great to fellowship with some of the members of the church. I love them, and I'm very thankful that God has placed me here.

Alex's boyfriend Ben is here for the weekend. He's been around a bit livening up our lives. We don't ever have boys in our room so it has definitely gotten us out of a slump. A nap this afternoon was basically unthinkable because it was 92 degrees and there was a fair amount of chit-chat going on. It's ok, we love Ben and he doesn't get to be here very often.

I ate dinner with Esther, her roommate Emily and Stephanie. It was rather rushed because I wanted to get to church without making people wait for me. When we got to church the sermon was entitled A Place for Pain. Pastor Watt assured us that we will all face pain and it was only a matter of time if we were not amidst it already. He gave five facets of how we develop in pain/suffering:
1. Suffering makes us participants in Jesus' experience. Christ committed himself to a life of pain and suffering. "The servants are not above the Master."

2. Suffering keeps us realistic about life. When life is good we often forget the most important things.

3. Suffering reminds us to appreciate the good things we have in this life and it allows us to be thankful.

4. Suffering helps us keep one eye on eternity. Pain reminds us that someday creation will stop groaning and "He will wipe every tear from our eyes."

5. Suffering purchased our redemption. God did the unthinkable: He sent His some down a path of ultimate suffering.

He then challenged us to think about how we may minister to people who are suffering. Some quotes that he mentioned in the sermon that I found remarkable:
"In Christianity we often don't rise above our pain, but rather God descends into it."

"Christianity is the only religion that has as it's central event the humiliation of it's God."

"God mixes blessing with pain so that we don't set our sights on this world." John Calvin

"Life is pain princess. Anyone who says otherwise is selling you something." The Princess Bride

We finished the worship service with Psalm 102A. It was powerful to be reminded of the sufferings of Christ "You raised me up to throw me down." Needless to say the service was intense and I was greatly challenged and encouraged. Pain and suffering are not above God. They are his means of perfecting us. It's hard, but it's His way.

The stars were amazing tonight. I mean breaktaking. God set those stars and He promised Abraham that His people would outnumber the starts. *Amazing* We sang Psalms all the way back to Grove City where we dropped off darling Julia. She needed to get some sleep because she has 4 exams this week poor Dear.

It was about 8:37 when Seth parked the car in the boondocks. We were going to be late so we ran across campus and a significant portion of the way to the Hugh's for College Fellowship. We sang Psalms. A innocent bystander asked "Are you late?" Apparently we didn't look like we were on an intentional run. Seth invited him to Bible study. He declined.

We got there a bit early, all things considered. Tonight Pastor Hughs read from Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices a Puritan Paperback by Thomas Brooks. We focused on purity of mind, and keeping ourselves fixed on Christ as a resting place. Again the Holy Spirit was working in me and I was inspired to work out my salvation with that much more fear and trembling. It was good.

On our walk home Emily, Jenny and I sang Psalms all the way. We sang at least a dozen. The sky was begging for us to praise God, and we couldn't resist. Emily kept saying, "We can't stop. Let's sing another one. Please?!" It was lovely.

"My heart is brimming with Thy praise and honor all day long!"

Really, it has been a hardish week, but this Lord's day was incredible. I love the Lord. He is wonderful. He picks us up and sets our feet on high places. He deals so graciously with us. He gives us people to encourage us. Singing the Lord's songs is one of my favorite things to do. We do it a lot here, and I am so thankful.

May you all have a lovely week. Please pray for me. I have a paper due tomorrow that has caused me a bit of trouble. I have an Economics exam on Wednesday (30% of my grade *yikes*) and an Education exam on Thursday.

I've been learning about the importance of doing my homework in God's strength. Praying before I sit down to study/write makes a world of difference (pardon the pun). Esther taught me the importance of dedicating work to God and asking for His strength and wisdom. It's been good.

Ok I'm off to shower and bed.

"Advancing still from strength to strength
They go where other pilgrims trod,
Till each to Zion comes at length
And stands before the face of God. "
Psalm 84:7

Speaking for Myself

2007-10-04T19:51:00.001-04:00

Today has been a wonderfully odd day. At the moment I am working on a rather strange History paper. It’s not due until Monday, but I’m wrestling with the question “Did Christianity Liberate Women?” At first I thought this would be the easiest topic to write on because I have strong feelings involved and some familiarity of primary sources, namely the Bible.
It’s going to be harder than I expected.
Ok I defiantly did not start this post thinking I would write about what I should be writing about right now. Wow, that was a lot of “rights/writes”. I’ve spent the last hour and a half reading these arguments and trying to make sense of what I’m going to be doing. Gretchen and I are in the Library and the chairs are lovely wood and Victorian style. After 67 minutes of being cooped up I decided I need to pee and take a short run. I found the bathroom which happens to be bright green in the Buhl Library and then made my way outside.
It is a gorgeous day in Pennsylvania, probably something like 75 degrees, clear skies and a nice breeze; so basically perfect. I ran as fast as I could to the first tree I saw. I was obviously barefoot and running in jeans with my hair partly down and my “I’m a Protestant… Really” necklace pounding up and down against my chest. I got to the tree, and then whirled around and ran to the next one. Before you know it I was stretching and doing all sorts of wild “Becca needs to take a break” moves. I’m sorta giggling at this point because crazy-fun-random things make me laugh. Running in the rain last week with Esther made me laugh… yeah things like that. Ok, I look up from my craziness and there are a dozen strangers walking towards me sorta trying to act like they didn’t just see that. They all happened to be male, and I quickly stood upright and ran for the Library laughing harder than before.
It’s a fun life.
There was pepper jack cheese at the sandwich bar at lunch. It made me happy. For Fit/Well (Grove Cities version of PE,) we have to keep track of everything we eat this week . It’s called our Nutrition Project. I wrote down that I had two slices of Pepper Jack Cheese *smiles*
There have been some hard things going on with my life lately. It’s not the end of the world, because God is in control, but I am feeling constant pressure to rely on Him alone. I like to feel comfortable and secure, but right now the only place I’m finding my comfort is in God. It’s a good thing. He’s given me joy in the midst of some trials. He’s a great God and greatly to be praised.
Ok, I really should get back to writing about how Christianity has liberated women- it sure has liberated me. Hehe.
*After twenty minutes of studying*
Gretchen and I are sitting in the Buhl Library with our feet up on the large oak table. We are facing each other with identical laptops both working on our History assignment. My side of the table is much messier than hers, mostly because I like to take up lots of space when I write a paper. I feel studious when I have lots of books and pages surrounding me.
I just thought I would add these fun facts.
*30 minutes after the last time I commented*
I am just getting up to get a glance at my emails and take another walk. Out of the corner of my eye I notice Dictionary of Irish Family Names. How random?
*20 minutes after I left for my “break”*
I ended up emailing Esther and receiving an important email from my Daddy. In the process Seth and Saundy walked into the Library. After a long hug and Seth making fun of us, he asked me how I was. I just smiled. He said, “Great?” I said, “Yeah, I’m great.” He said, “You’re always great aren’t you.” I sorta laughed and shook my head, “No, I am not. Although since salvation is what makes me great, and that never changes, I suppose I always should be great.” “Well, I think you are always great.”
That was sweet. We chatted for a bit. I hadn’t seen them in a week. It was fun. I’m back now working, sorta, on school.

Angels

2007-09-27T12:10:00.001-04:00

This morning I began to read Hebrews when I was spending time alone with God, and I was intrigued by how the author felt compelled to write about how Jesus was superior to angels. I began look up the verses about angels. I don’t know much about them, but now I know a little more. These verses are really incredible:

We know angels are sent to protect and serve God's people:
“For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.”Psalm 91:11-12

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in Heaven.” Matthew 18:10 There are specific angels for the “little children” of the kingdom.

“Are they [angles] not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?”Heb. 1:14

We know angels praise God:
“Bless the LORD, O you his angels, you might ones who do his word, obeying the voice of his word!” Psalm 103:20 We have authority to call on the angels to bless God.

“And all the angles were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying ‘Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen!”’Revelation 7:11-12 AMEN!

We know that on the last day the angels will gather the elect:
“And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect for the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.”Matthew 24:31

“So it will be at the close of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”Matthew 13:49-50

We know that angels are subject to God and do His bidding:
“Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me roe than twelve legions of angels? But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?” Matthew 26:3-54

“Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entrained angels unawares.”Hebrews 13:1-2

We know angels rejoice in salvation of men (they will not be saved), and angels will participate in the condemnation of men:
“Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”Luke 15:10

“And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God,”Luke 12:8

“That is why a wife ought to wear a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.” I Corinthians 11:10

“For surely it is not angels that he helps, but the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”Hebrews 2:16-17

“The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and they will walk with me in white, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before His angels.”Revelation 3:5

What does this mean to us today?

Giving Blood

2007-09-25T07:01:00.000-04:00

As many of you know yesterday Rebekah gave blood. She had never donated blood before, so she was very nervous. It wasn’t so much the needles as the concept of her blood, which she deemed necessary, leaving her body for a greater good. All morning people were walking out of the make-shift blood Clinique with large bandages.
She was a bit of a nerd about the whole thing, because she looked up how she should eat, and what she should drink. She avoided fatty foods including ice-cream, hamburgers, fries etc. and stocked up on green leaves, a bit of chicken, and whole grains.
At 2:45 she marched herself up to the IM room. Alex got a picture of her anxious face (we’ll have to wait until Alex wakes up to show you). She gets there and signs up, and then realizes that the line is so long she should run and get her Physics books so she can study. Being the good girl that she is she worked on preparing for the test she has this morning during the hour that they had her wait. It really wasn’t terribly long, but she was nervous.
Finally they call “Rebekah Long”. She gathers her belongings and marches to the blue cubical. The nurse was nice. Happily Rebekah’s iron was high enough to donate. She was a bit concerned, but her little blood drop sunk right to the bottom of the test tube. It pays off to eat green vegetation on regular basis.
When the nurse was done she marched over to a vacant cot. Sadly, the girl who was next to her didn’t have good veins and it took the nurse three tries and several friends, to realize that she couldn’t give blood. Rebekah was a bit mortified that the same nurse would be getting her all wired up. She tried to concentrate on Gilead, the book she brought with her.
The nurse moved over to Rebekah’s cot after about 15 minutes. She wrapped a tight black band around her arm, which wasn’t very nice. It was actually the most annoying part of the whole process. For some reason Rebekah hates tightness. Getting her blood pressure taken is never pleasant. The black band made it so that she felt her pulse, which added to the nervousness.
In no time the needle was in and Rebekah’s blood was coming out. It was a rather simple process really. She was to squeeze a little makeshift stress reliever every 5-10 seconds. It didn’t hurt, but it felt weird. To be honest she felt a little dizzy and nauseous. To her credit, she tried to be brave reminding herself of how minor this sensation was compared to the pain her mother has endured over the years. The book she brought to distract her was at a very sad part. The old pastor was concerned about the man his middle-aged wife might marry after his death. It almost brought tears, and of course we couldn’t have her crying that would cause unnecessary concern.
After about 8 minutes the worst was over and Rebekah was unhooked. It took the nurse long enough to get that stupid black band off. Whatever.
She was instructed to eat and drink something before she left, and to keep her arm straight to minimize bruising. Oh, and to refrain from caffeine and alcohol. *Whimper*
After 15 minutes of resting up, and witnessing 3 people passing out, Rebekah felt safe leaving. She walked back to her room with a sore arm, but a confident spirit that she had done a good thing. She thought, “People need blood. Jesus would have given blood if he could… wait, Jesus did give blood. He gave it the hard way.”
Well, that isn’t a very interesting tale, but it is a hallmark in her life, because Rebekah intends to give as faithfully permits. She was rightfully nervous. It’s not fun giving blood, though she’s told it gets easier every time, which is a nice thought.

She took some pictures to share with you, and now we’ll get back to studying. Rebekah has a Physics test this morning. Also, it was worth the effort to keep her arm straight, this morning no bruise, just a little red dot. =)
Hey, check out this cool website that Rebekah found during her nerdy research:
http://www.bloodcenters.org/aboutblood/bloodfacts.htm

thoughts

2007-09-23T09:13:00.000-04:00

I would say Sunday morning is probably the hardest time of the week. When I’m home I get up around 7:30 and head downstairs to enjoy coffee with Mom and Dad. We usually talk about something and help the little people get their breakfast. It’s not that I was extremely helpful Sunday mornings, but there is something special about going to worship God as a family vs. a single college student. This morning I woke up at 7:30, not because I needed to but out of habit. I got dressed spent some time on my hair, and then went to breakfast by myself. Most of the campus isn’t up by 8:30 on a Sabbath morning. It was a lovely and peaceful walk from here to the cafeteria. When I got back to my room it wasn’t even 9 and so I decided to write a bit. I began thinking about my family and how they are bustling around making sure shoes are tied and outfits match. My Dad is practicing the Psalms for worship and my Mom is making sure Luke can go help her put out bulletins. What a crazy life. I miss it.
There is a glorious independence that comes with growing up, but there is also an element of loneliness that can only be dealt with in terms of Gods abiding presence. I love going to Rose Point and sitting in the college row. I just have a new appreciation for family after spending several Sundays without one; which is why I’m coming home next weekend.
“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”
God is faithful. Enjoy worship.

Blessedness and Silliness are Getting Worse

2007-09-21T10:19:00.000-04:00

Oh, where to begin. Ahh yes, yesterday afternoon Rebekah met with her friend Esther in the limestone Library. They had originally intended to work on their Education paper which is due in three weeks, but the pressure of tomorrow’s History exam brought them to a quick agreement that the paper could wait. Studying was more important.
After an hour of note comparing the girls started talking “real life”. Yes, most would say History is real life, and Rebekah would be one of them, usually. You must understand that ancient History isn’t the most personable time period. Swing dancing and roommate controversies are far more realistic than Ma’at and Filial Piety.
At four our little History student packed up her books and headed back to her room to spend the next 5 hours studying. She took extensive notes of the text. This should have been done earlier. Thankfully she wasn’t terribly behind. Rebekah took an occasional break to talk to a long-loved brother and to get her food in the cafeteria, though these were multi-tasked into her studious mode, she had her head in the books for so long that it got to the point where she was misspelling things like the word “died”. She wrote:
“Legalism dide with the Qin Dynasty… “
She stared at the word for a while trying to remember one was the past tense of the word “die”. She quickly flipped her pencil over, and pretending it never happened tried again. Spelling it the same way as before she took a deep breath and laughed. “Lord, what are you going to do with me?” Rebekah likes to talk to God about herself, because sometimes He’s the only one Who’s compassionate enough to just listen.
She did get it right the third time, just for the record. Died.
At 8:30 she took a relieving break to go to accountability group in Jenny and Emily’s room. The refreshment of godly fellowship was just the thing to put Rebekah back on track. God’s hand-selected few are far more valuable than any friends Rebekah could have imagined for herself. He is faithful.
One of the girls at the “meeting” was dear Gretchen who happens to be in World History 143. Rebekah had offered her friend the use of her notes, because she felt awful that there had been so much time invested in the pathetic pieces of paper. She hoped that someone else would benefit from her effort. In reviewing the notes Gretchen noticed that there were about five pages dedicated to the Greeks. She said, “Um, we aren’t studying the Greeks. “
It was true. Our little friend had spend two hours pain-staking taking notes on a chapter that wasn’t supposed to be read until next time. This time God’s compassion on miss finite was made manifest in the smiles and encouraging hugs of the cheerful girls around. “Well, you’ll be ready for the next test.”
*sigh*
At 10:00 Rebekah made a bee-line for the gym. The wonderful thing about her being a college student is she can pretty much run her own schedule. The Elliptical is her new favorite way to study. She plopped 35 pages of History notes on the panel and away she went; 45 minutes later we had a tired but happy Becca. The notes were read, and the body was red. Hehe.
Anyways, back in the room there was a bit of a shower, and some messing around with the ever-distracting world wide web. Then she came to a key decision. Would she make coffee and stay up until 3 studying, or would she go to bed and get up at 5?
Counsel was given from caring friends and Mothers to go to sleep. Since the coffee had already been made, Rebekah decided to leave it until the morning. A 4 hour waiting period would make it stronger anyway.
To bed she went.
Before the sun was awake, our Rebekah was bouncing around the room coffee and notes in hand. She was really quiet though because of her precious roommates were sleeping. Breakfast provided a bit of a scenery change for the Scholar. 7:30 she was back in the room and little Jenna and Alex were beginning to show signs of life.
Naturally, Rebekah sang “You are my sunshine,” to ease the morning ritual of getting-up. By now she was on her forth cup of coffee, and her notes were in her head as best as she could remember them. Jenna says, “You are crazy. Why are you talking 100 miles an hour?” She replied, “I’m not, you are just slow because you just woke up.” From her cozy place of rest Alex remarked, “No, you are talking 100 miles an hour.” Whatever.
It’s true that coffee has an amazing way of making even the best day even better. On her way out Alex was in such marvel at the workings of the brew that she asked Rebekah to show her how to work the new coffee machine. Her wish was eagerly granted.
On her way to class Rebekah reviewed notes and tried to thank God for the gorgeous morning at the same time. Such confusing prayers could never be interpreted by anyone but the Holy Spirit Himself. The Lord knows the heart, and thankfully He is compassionate.
Thankfully Dr. Graham is compassionate aswell. Rebekah accidently spilled her offee on her History test. She dashed the bathroom and cleaned up the mess, but he provided her a new test and a smile. Thanks Dr. Graham.
God only knows how Rebekah did on her test, but she feels good. Now, exactly why she feels good may have nothing to do with the test… as you may have gathered. Hopefully, the results will only reconfirm that God wants Rebekah to teach History.
Thanks for… being Rebekah’s friend. At least I hope you are her friend, considering you’re rereading this 983 word blog.

Love- can't get away from it

2007-09-18T13:34:00.000-04:00

What does it mean? When Jesus said, “follow Me,” what did He mean?
I used to think it had to do with some sort of point system. If I do enough Quiet Times and don’t get too many “marks” then I would be following Him.

This summer I discovered my argument to be based on a fallacy. Jesus paid the price. There is nothing I have to do to get to heaven, but the privileges of being a Christian are endless. Following Him is simply being like Him, which is what we want when we are saved, amen?
What does it look like? What does it mean for me to be “in His steps”? Pondering this question can cause waves of guilt. The sins of omission are real, and I don’t like to think about them. I am sinning when I don’t love my neighbor. In History class we were discussing the Confusion’s motto: don’t do unto others what you would not have them do unto you. If that is what Jesus had said, then I would be off the hook most of the time. But He said do. He commands action and consideration. His love is an active love.

Now, sometimes I get carried away and I become overwhelmed with what it means to really follow Christ. The possibilities are endless and there is so much that I am not doing for Him. That is when I am reminded that God knows I’m finite. Unlike Him, I cannot take care of everyone and everything at one time. However, I am to take care with the time that He has given me. I am at Grove City College recovering from culture shock. These people are all my age and they don’t have the same needs that I am used to addressing on the home front. Yet, they do have needs. It is my job to assess the situation and then come up with a game plan. I am learning how to love in a new way.

When I was agonizing over where I should go to college I knew that I needed to get out of the house, but I couldn’t articulate why. Now I’ve realized that God wanted to teach me love in a new way. I am depending on Him in a way that I didn’t at home, because He is my Father- the only one I’ve got with me. I am looking to Him for counsel, comfort and compassion in ways that I didn’t at home because those needs where met through people in my life.

I am learning how to be loved by God in a new way, and now I need to learn how to love through God in a different way. There are hurting people everywhere. We all need love, but we receive it in differently.

The cool thing about following Jesus is that it’s never boring. There isn’t a formula that gets old after a while. Love has a multitude of forms and we just have to use them. What a thing to pursue, mastering love. We die and Jesus says, “Well done my good and faithful servant. You have mastered love. Enter glory.”

“In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.”
I John 4:10-12

I love that, that we can’t see God but we can see his love- in ourselves and in one another. It’s a great plan.

Housekeeping item:
I misplaced my student ID. I had it last night when I came to bed, and this morning I couldn’t find it to go to breakfast. I have a temporary one, but it costs 20$ to get a new one so I would like to find it.

Also, this is my 700th post. I suppose that's funfact not housekeeping. Lol.

Thanks

Thoughts on Romance when I should be reading Econcomics

2007-09-17T10:31:00.000-04:00

There is something unique about the Christian account of creation. Several religions claim that god/gods made the world and the people in it, so how are we to know that the Bible is the accurate account? What is so specially about Moses’ version The Beginning?
When God made man he made him out of dust and then as Dr. Gamble would say, He kissed him. Theunromantic way of saying it: “breathed into his nostrils the breath of life.” Imagine man laying limb in God’s hand and then God leans down to Adams face and breaths into him life. What a glorious moment when Adam first gazed into the face of God inches away from his own.
Next, Adam watched as the LORD planted a garden. Then, “The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” God led man to his work. He took him and placed him in his domain. It was after they were in the garden that the first recorded conversation between God and man took place. God commanded,
“You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day you eat of it you shall surely die.”
Adam was standing in this bountiful garden, and God introduces his first law. Death is the punishment of disobedience, yet how did Adam know the meaning of death? We take for granted that we understand death. Adam had no experience with anything coming to an end.
Then, the Lord said, “It’s not good for man to be alone; I will make a helper fit for him.” Now, we would expect Eve to come into the picture now, but she does not. God makes the animals. He recognizes that man is alone, and it is not good, but he gives Adam some time to live alone. He brings Adam the animals and whatever Adam calls them that is their name. After the long processional of elephants, bears, penguins Adam still has not found a helper fit for him.
God likes us to serve Him and focus on Him before fulfilling the need that He already understands. It would have been easy for Adam to be naming these animals thinking that God has forgotten or made a mistake. God knew that Adam needed Eve, the Bible makes note of that early on. Adam needed to understand that before his own needs came his relationship and his service to God.
“So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall on the man.”
Adam had had a long day: Meeting God, tending the garden, getting his first command, being lonely, naming the animals, and still not finding someone to fulfill his needs. God causes him to sleep. Had Adam been a control freak like some of us, he would have fought sleep. He would have demanded for answers. He would have agonized over his need for a helper and pointed to the animals saying, “they have helpers, why can’t I?”
God wanted Adam to rest in Him and trust Him. It was in Adam’s sleep that God made Woman.
“And the rib that the LORD had taken from the man He made into a woman and brought her to the man.”
God forms Eve. She is His last act of creating. She is not made from the earth like the man and the animals. She is made from Adam, and (as I Cor. 11 says) she is made for Adam.
Eve doesn’t get the kiss of life. God used living flesh to make her. When God had made woman He brought her to the man. Eve followed God before she met Adam. She had to trust Him. Remember that when God made man he “placed him in the garden”. Adam’s first priority was his work. When God made Eve, it she already in the garden, but He “brought her to man.” God guided Eve. He walked with her.
What a moment when Adam awoke from his rest to find Woman being brought to him. Perhaps the habit of a girls father bringing her down the aisle originated from this first wedding ceremony. Think of Adam’s face, it couldn’t have been too different from the grinning faces of the happy grooms we see in our day.
The first recorded words that man has ever spoken are a love song:
“This at last, is bone of my bonesAnd flesh of my fleshShe shall be called Woman,Because she was taken out of Man.”
God then makes an interjection in the story. Like a good film director would fade out of such a love scene, so God fades out to make the point that “Therefore, a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” Adam didn’t have a father and a mother, so this command was written for those of us who follow the example of the first marriage.
I would submit that any other creation text is not nearly this romantic nor this pure. God wrote Bible, and it’s lovely. There is so much to gain. I mostly speculate as you know. I have no authority to interpret Scripture other than the Holy Spirit opening my eyes.
It’s important for us to consider Adam and Eve. It’s the way it’s supposed to be. I’ve heard guys complain that it was easy for Adam because he didn’t have anyone else to choose from; Eve was made for him. Yet, God didn’t indulge Adam’s desire for Eve right away. He introduced him to the Animals first. Adam was naming the animals waiting for Eve to come up the line, but she didn’t. So Adam had to rest in the Lord. Then he found his wife. God brought her to him.
I’ve also heard girls say the Eve just woke up one day and got her man. It’s important for us to remember that God has to lead us. God has made us, and he will also lead us to the man he has for us. We need to follow Him.
The Bible is incredible. It’s romantic in a way that mortal authors cannot be. God’s word speaks to the heart. It shapes our very soul.

A Girl and Her Coffee

2007-09-14T01:30:00.001-04:00

The clear Pennsylvania sky beckoned her to come and follow. What is a person to do when the sky looks so inviting? She reached up for it with all her might, but to no avail- other than some queer stares from fellow students walking past. Thankfully they were on their cell phones so they weren't really paying attention anyway.
She is happy tonight, our little Rebekah. She is reflecting on the good friends and family that God has given her here at school and back home... or wherever home may be for her friends. She is thankful tonight. She is thankful to the God who made the sky.
On her way back to her room she considered the amount of work to be done over the weekend. Then floor tiles seem to be saying, "coffee, Becca get yourself some coffee." She replied. No it's true. In a whisper, "I can't. I don't have a coffeemaker!" "We dare you." What does a girl say to that? If a floor tile dares you to make some coffee, then you just gotta. There’s no way around it.
Back in her room Rebekah scanned her surroundings. She had to be resourceful. There was no coffeemaker, but coffee doesn't need a maker, it just needs to percolate. She considered dumping out a teabag filling it with coffee and taping it shut. It didn't seem likely that the tape would last long enough.
Then she saw the Dora paper cups! "Jenna, can I use one of your cups?" She politely asked with a determination in her voice that Jenna had never heard before.
Thankfully, Jenna isn't terribly attached to her Dora the Explorer Dixie cups. She offered one up for the cause. A bobby pin was inserted into the bottom of the cup to make a sufficient hole. Using a paper towel liner Rebekah carefully scooped two tablespoons of her freshly opened Hazelnut coffee beans into the cup. Steaming hot water was poured over the dry coffee beans, and Eureka coffee dripped out the bottom into the awaiting mug.
*Smiles all around* Rebekah mixed in a bit of Alex's chocolate mint power. It wasn't necessary, but chocolate seemed to be desire worth satisfying.
Jenna announced that she hated coffee and chocolate. Although it’s true, Rebekah replied with a sigh, "Our friendship comes to a halting shriek right there."
Jenna laughed.
"Girl, you need some sleep. Shrieking halt?"
Rebekah smiled, she had her coffee- a good thing.
And, as the song goes, too much of a good thing, is a good thing.

She was Late to Class

2007-09-12T09:11:00.001-04:00

This morning our darling little Rebekah decided to turn off her lovely alarm and get a bit more required sleep. She dreamed of lake houses and beautiful gardens. Suddenly, she was jarred from the enchanting paradise to ask the question, "what time is it?" Sure enough, it was 8:05 AM meaning she'd be a solid six minutes late to her History class. On a normal day she may have considered sleeping through class, but they have a big paper coming up and the Professor was going to talk about it this morning.
She didn't bother getting dressed. She just threw a hoodie over her tank-top and slipped on a pair of jeans. She didn't get to the bathroom brush her teeth/hair, and apply some much needed makeup. She just whipped up something resembling a flopsy ponytail, pulled the 'hopefully my glasses will cover' and headed off to class notebook in hand.
The first thing she said was, "good morning" to a man jogging by. He had an odd mustache. The world was beautiful, and she couldn't help laughing at herself. She is on her own, and that means there's no one here to wake her up for class.
The moral of the story:
When dreaming of lovely lakehouses and spectaular gardens avoid the question, "what time is it?"

Back at School

2007-09-10T00:39:00.000-04:00

Coming home this weekend was like jumping to a rushing after a long hot run and then trying to swim against the current. It was 100% refreshing. At the same time, it's 100% wonderful to be back here. I am tired, so this won't be long. The wedding went well. I love weddings. To quote Fiddler on the Roof "It gives us something to think about, something to drink about..." Yeah, that explains it.

It was good to worship at "my" church again. I love you. I am praying for you. My heart feels divided, soon I hope it just grows big enough to be all here and all home depending on where I happen to be.

I have some projects/papers due this week. I am looking forward to getting a move on this whole education business. The first week or so seems so... easy.

I want to take a moment to say that God is great. He is holy. He is awesome. He is wonderful. He is good. He is kind. He is merciful. He is just. He is generous. He is wise. He is powerful. He is present. He is perfect. He is the one and only God. We get to be HIS. We get to spend forever worshiping Him. We get to serve HIM on this earth. We get to know what He wants and do it with delight. We get to enjoy GOD.

Homework and Happiness

2007-09-06T18:35:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow I am packing a bag to go home. It's a weird thought. I have lots of homework to do, but I'm putting it off for no given reason. I'm happy because I'm starting to get to know my place here. I'm beginning to pick up on where girls are at, and now I can address their needs. I'm happy because I get to read 30 pages in my History textbook. I hate textbooks, except for History. I love History. I'm happy because I have really yummy water to drink on a hot day. I'm happy because I had Education class this morning, and Dr. Mackey made me want to be a teacher all over again.
God has made it possible for us to enjoy life. I realize that there are hard times, but by enjoying Him we can enjoy the life that He has given us to live. It's lovely. What a God? What a love? What a life?

Happy Birthday Levi

2007-08-29T17:19:00.000-04:00

Today is Levi's birthday. He is 13. Levi is the kind of guy that goes all the way. He has leadership skills that are rarely seen is someone his age. He can dedicated himself to something 110% some of those things include: basketball, school plays, soccer, football, poker, and just being a great big bother. Levi lives in the same room with his three little brothers. Not very many people have done that.Levi has grown up a lot in the last year. He has shown maturity in the area of the way he treats Mom and Dad, which is usually a rough stop for a preteen. Levi has an incredible smile. He can light up a room with his happiness. He has also been walking with God. It's amazing to see and hear the things that God as put on his heart and the way that he plans on carrying them out. Levi isn't sure what his goals are for the future. He's considering the military. I think he's be a great officer someday. He knows how to keep guys in line ;). I know that where ever God leads him, there will be great things in store. Levi is a chosen one. I'm very thankful to God for Levi. He's a pretty incredible brother.I love you!Happy birthday!May God direct your steps as you continue to grow into the man that He is calling you to be.

Somethings True

2007-08-28T12:42:00.000-04:00

I've been a little bit sad lately. I have gotten overwhelmed with the people here, and not having any dear friends to talk with on campus. I've been frusterated with the thought that I am spending the next three years here studying. I have missed home. Today, God took me by the hand and gave me a graious gift. He met my needs sevenfold. Dr. Mackey is my Education professor and today he reminded me of all the things that I know are true. He is more passionate about teaching kids then anyone I have ever met. He pointed out that we are going to face hard times. The Devil will tempt us to be depressed and upset, but he reminded us that we are here to serve God here and now. Here are some quotes... somethings true:

"What God taught you in the light don't doubt in the dark."

"Right now God has called you to prepare for His service. Don't get weary in well doing. Our hearts may be sensitive to the kids in Africa, but at the moment God wants you here to learn."

"There's always enough time to do the things you have to do."

"When God set out to change the world by saving His people, He sent a teacher."

"Learn to have your heart broken over the things that break God's heart."

"You must teach from the overflow of a full life."

"You earn the right to be heard when you show them how much you care."

Needless to say I smiled through the entire class. I smiled all the way through lunch. It was beautiful to be reminded why I'm here. I am so excited. I will be looking forward to this class all semester.Thank you Lord.

Where I'm At

2007-08-25T23:27:00.000-04:00

Good evening, I am tired. We started the day with a sunrise worship service. It was good to go and join hearts in worship with the kids that I have been meeting. It was different than what I am used to, and I am wrestling with some of the issues that arose in my mind as I had my first encounter with the spiritual side of Grove City.

We had a girl lead us this morning. She basically shared testimony, and I think it was supposed to be like a sermon or devotional. She stressed the importance of time with God even when the school year gets hectic. I appreciated that point, but it made me uneasy when she spoke so often of the Holy Spirit leading her to do/say things. It's interesting because I just finished Acts for my quiet time and so the role of the Holy Spirit has been on my heart and mind lately. He is real, and He does work today in our lives, but what part does He play? How often do we hear Him, and what is His work. I also met a Pentecostal in Broad Ripple. She really challenged me on the importance of the Spirit. I agreed with her, but there is a difference in the way He works today, and the way He worked in the New Testament. She didn't understand that, and frankly, neither do I. The Bible doesn't speak about Him too often. It looks like this semester I am going to be dealing with these questions- concerning the third person of the Godhead. Any thoughts?

We obviously sang "spiritual songs" this morning. I don't know very many, but I sing when I can. I was overcome with how free these kids are with their emotions in worship. I think the the Reformed Presbyterian church has something to learn about the heart being totally engaged in worship. I think I am going to learn some of that here, but I think there are things that I can give to them as well.

On a brighter note, I went to the Schmidtbergers home this evening for a college planning meeting. It was great to finally meet some upperclassmen and get a feel for who I will be spending a lot of my time with. It was wonderful. I'm so thankful that God has provided these friends for me. He is amazing.

Tomorrow I am going to go to Rose Point RP church. I'm excited. I'm also a bit sad. Today someone asked me where went to church, and I answered, "well I used to go, I mean... my old church is..., I mean.... my home church is 2RP." *Sigh* Change is hard. I'm going to miss "my" church tomorrow.

Thanks for prayer and contact everyone. I love you all, and I am praying for you. Have a lovely day of worship.

I'm Here!

2007-08-23T22:22:00.000-04:00

Dearest friends and family, I am sitting at my new desk using my new laptop listening to my new roommate try to settle down for bed. It's been a day unlike any other. We woke up around 3:20 to get out here by 10. We made it and the trip was lovely. I truly do enjoy the trek from good old Indy out to PA. I know the drive will get annoying at times because of the time it requires, but I like the quality time I got to spend with Mom and Bethy this morning.

Unpacking was an adventure. I had shared that I was a bit concerned about the whole roommate/living in a dorm deal. God has been pleased to give us a great start together. The room is small, but we have managed to fit in here without too much fuss.

We did have a bit of trouble with my hangup clothes and new body pillow. A very helpful girl took them to the wrong room. After five hours of close to endless searching I found my lovely clothes in a pile in the hallway. Thank the Lord they are not lost forever.

Beth and Mom helped me move in, and did a incredible job dealing with a not-too-perfect me. they are the best. I love you. Goodbyes came sooner than we thought they should. I cried. We all did. It's a part of life, for us anyway. I am going to be ok, but it's still hard to grip the fact that I am here to stay.

I took a brief nap and then went to pick up my new and wonderful tablet PC. I'm very impressed with the little guy. We've been having tons of fun together.

Tonight we had a graffiti dance. We all signed each other shirts with markers and some of us danced. It was crazy but fun. Alex, Jenna and I left early. I took a quick run and then enjoyed a cold shower. We don't have AC so any coolness I can get is delightful.

I'm excited about all of this, but it is overwhelming. Thanks for all your prayers.

I'm not ready for this

2007-08-22T19:01:00.001-04:00

Today is my last official day living at home. From here on out I will have a foot here in Indiana and one out in PA. I am basically packed. I have a large pile next to the door reminding me that in a few hours we will be on the road and I won't be coming home for a while.

Everyone has been wonderful. I have received a few presents and tons of hugs from friends and family. Jerusha keeps promising that she will figure out a way to come live with me. Keziah asked me not to cry.

How am I supposed to close such a long and consistent chapter of life? How am I supposed to say goodbye to the twelve people I love most? How am I supposed to transition from big sis to lonely freshman? The only answer I have to give myself is: God.

God will be with me. He will watch out for me and teach me how to adjust to life on a college campus. I am eager to learn. I am eager to take this step. It's just hard.

I will keep you all posted. It's dinner time.

Lovely Lord's Day

2007-08-12T16:27:00.001-04:00

I woke this morning with Sam calling me. I found myself next to a sleeping Keziah. I remembered that it was the Lord's Day, and I remembered that I needed to go make coffee. I came downstairs and got caught up with my mother. I don't know what I am going to do when I live somewhere else. We spend most of our time at home discussing everything. It's normal to me, but my friends find it unique.
I got myself ready and to church five minutes before nine. Ken Smith was sitting on his porch as I drove into the church parking lot. He bid us good morning and I thanked God for him. What a blessing!
Coffee Fellowship was not well attended. I entered Sunday school a few minutes early and made a plan with Mrs. Smith to meet with her this Thursday. She is wonderful and it will be good to talk with her for an afternoon.
We have learned so much about evangelism and discipleship in the last few weeks. I have enjoyed going out with Gary and Jennifer each Friday and the Sunday morning classes have only encouraged my desire to continue evangelism when I go to school. The Gospel is so important. It takes practice... but it's worth the time.
Worship was incredible. I cried. Mom asked me why, and I said I didn't know. It was sorta of a lie. I know that it had to do with the fact that I am preparing to be sent out. I am leaving my congregation. I won't be worshiping them this semester. It also had to do with the fact that God is getting a hold of my heart in a new way. It's hard to explain, so I said I didn't know.
He explained the parable of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price. In both cases the man in the story "sold all that he had" to gain the treasure. I was reminded of the cost of discipleship. I must surrender all that I love, all that I am, all that I know for Christ. He is supreme. He is in control. He is King. I must trust Him.

We came home and celebrated Keziah's 3rd birthday. It was great fun. I decided I would spend the afternoon at the IMA talking with Jesus and preparing for Communion. I walked over there and began to read Acts 20, and when I had read it I had to read Acts 21 and then 22. I am sure I have read it before but I didn't remember the story of Paul in Jerusalem and how God rescued him. It was really exciting. I began to pray. After several minutes I heard a male voice address me. I looked up and there sat a biker. He was sweaty and asked me something about whether or not I was hot. We small talked for a few minutes about the weather and whether or not biking is hotter than sitting. I picked up that he wasn't planning on moving on when he asked if he could come and sit with me for a while.
*RED LIGHTS*
1.) He is a stranger
2.) There is no one in sight/hearing distance
3.) I was spending time with God
4.) He was disgustingly sweaty
5.) He was at least 30

I looked up and said, "I am out here praying because I am a Christian and tonight we have communion."
Something clicked because he didn't sit down next to me, but we did get into a discussion about Christianity. He said he wasn't apposed to Christians. He grew up Catholic but he was very convinced that Catholics and Christians were very different. It was an interesting discussion. I shared the Gospel with him several times throughout our talk. He said he was ok with what I believed. I told him it didn't matter if I believed it or not. It was true regardless of people's belief. We began to then discuss truth. We talked for half and hour, and ended with him comparing God's general revelation to mother nature. I did a fairly unimpressive God of pointing out the differences. It was interesting.

I began to pack up and asked him his name. Dan. Dan needs prayer. He stopped to hit on me, which didn't work, so instead we talked theology and philosophy for 30 minutes. He road away muttering how odd it was that he had such a talk with a girl out in the middle of no where, and thankful that at least what I had to say was real and not the stuff on TV. Who knows how God will use our conversation, but I was grateful for yet another opportunity to glorify Christ by speaking His truth to the lost.

It's been a lovely day. I'm looking forward to this evening. I am getting more excited about school, and more confident that in God's present peace.

Daddy says I came home subdued...

2007-06-28T10:25:00.000-04:00

Mom and I made the trek out to Grove Cit college last Lord's Day afternoon. We arrived around 9. Seeing the campus again was fantastic. With each visit I am more and more excited about the lovely place that I will call home for the next three years. Registration day went well. I met new people and signed up for classes. This next school year is going to be interesting. I left wondering how I was going to finish everything in three years... but more importantly, how I was going to start all over again.

I've never had to start all over again, before now. I have lived in the same city, and basically the same house- which doubled as a school- all my life. I have attended 2RP since before I was born, and I love them. I have been loved by people, and I have loved people. I've been understood and had people who could relate to me because they have had similar experiences.
Not now.

I am going to move six hours away to live with people that are from all over the country. We all have such different backrounds, but most of them can relate on two things that I cannot: they have attended a typical evangelical church all their life, and they went to school.

Sunday night when I was talking with some kids in the lobby it dawned on me, not for the first time, that I am a minority. The question was asked, "who has the most brothers and sisters." People said, I have three, I have four... and I mumbled under my breath I have 10. Blank stares... laughter... disbelief. I am going to get a lot of that I think.

What I have to realize is that God has given me the blessing of comfort and security over the last 18 years, and now he's taking a lot of that away so that I may be more dependant on Him rather then my situation and circle of friends. Jesus was a minority on earth... and He handled it wonderfully.

I'm sure I'll meet friends and by this time next year I will feel very differently. Right now I'm scared, and lonely. I am frustrated, because people keep telling me it will come easily, and it hasn't come. It was like when I was training to be a server, and I knew that soon enough I would be really good, but while I was training I didn't know everything, and I had to take it slow. I want to know everyone and be comfortable, because I know I will be, but right now I'm not, and it's hard.

So, when Daddy, and others, say that I am subdued, this is way. I must learn to cast my cares on my Savior because He cares for me.

Thanks for Praying

2007-06-10T23:34:00.000-04:00

I have not made a public request for your prayers, but I want to thank you for praying. I know someone has, and I want to bear witness that God hears.This week has been amazing. I went evangelizing with the Van Keppels the Friday before last and invited a Mormon girl to church. She came, and then came again to the Van Keppel's for dinner where we discussed her faith and she shared why/how she was a Mormon. I am very hopeful that God is doing a great work in her because she is eager to come back and talk with us again. It's been a blessing to do the work of the Kingdom in this way.Also I have been blessed and convicted with the knowledge that I have but one life to live, and Jesus has asked me to give it up, and take up my cross. I have not been zealous about His work of late, but this week my eyes have been opened again to the privilidge of being His. Jesus gave His life for the Father, what is it that I can give? Just hours before his death Jesus said:"I will not longer talk with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has not claim on me, but I do as the Father has commanded Me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here." John 14:30-31What does being a Christian really mean? What does Christ really have for us if we are willing to follow and obey? When will we start showing Christ's love in big ways and small... knowing that that is why we are here. "Therefore be in imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave humself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Ephesians 5:1-2

Tomorrow I head to camp. It's going to be weird being on staff, instead of being a camper. I'm excited. I hope that I can love these girls, and be some help on their journey. Have an amazing week.

My Speech

2007-05-20T23:11:00.000-04:00

I want to say thank you first to the God of Heaven and earth.

He has watched over me everyday since my birth.

I stand here and testify that He is true, and holy and good.

And He has loved the way no one else could.

Jesus Christ is my Savior, my Friend and my King.

He is risen indeed, giving me a new song to sing.

We could go on and on to recall God’s merciful grace.

I hope to grow in love abiding in the light of His face.

I want to say thank you to my father and my mother.

They have given me care counsel and training unlike any other.

My parents have spent more then eighteen years

Providing and enduring amidst the joy and the tears.

They were tools in God’s hands, to teach me of Him.

I will never forget all that they have sacrificially given.

I want to say thank you to my siblings each one.

I can’t count the loving things you’ve said and done.

God has put us all together and we are so blessed.

Even though I don’t always show it and sometimes I’m stressed.

Continue on in the faith, love God, and work hard.

May He send His angels from heaven to watch and keep guard.

I want to say thank you to my friends so dear.

It’s been amazing to have you all so near.

You’ve helped and challenged my faith and my walk.

Thank you for giving your heart and listening when I talk.

I want to say thank you to my teachers for teaching.

It was their example and effort that made my goal worth reaching.

Thank you for the hours of work that you have invested.

I’ve realized that I am stronger since I have been tested.

I want to say thank you to our church, last but not least.

You are beautiful, you are precious and your works have not ceased.

I may be a bit biased but I love to worship with you all.

You have been faithful, and kind, always there when I fall.

I will miss you. I will remember, and the Lord’s name praise.

He has given all these amazing gifts throughout my growing days.

I am moving to Grove City College in the fall of this year.

Your and Christ’s love goes with me, so I shall not fear.

I want to teach History so I can share the glory of His plan.

By pointing to the path that other saints ran.

"Yet evermore I am with Thee,
Thou holdest me by my right hand.
And Thou even Thou my guide shalt be;
Thy counsel shall my way command;
And afterward in glory bright
Shall receive me to thy sight."
Psalm 73

Thank you.

*sob... giggle* I knew I was going to cry, but I tried really hard.

"Real Facts"

2007-05-02T20:29:00.001-04:00

I sat down at the Marian desktop with a armload of research books, a white bag from Walgreens and my overflowing black pull-string backpack. I wanted some order before I began my work. I piled the books on the chair beside me and laid the backpack on the desk. I carefully emptied my Walgreens sack, lining the contents next the PC monitor.
I checked my facebook a decided to open one of my beverages. Snapple Peach Sweet Tea, I fell in love with the drink last summer in New Jersey and compulsively bought it along with an Arizona Sweet Tea, Vanilla Frappuccino, Doublemint gun, and a Midnight Milky Way (which means dark chocolate *yum*) Yes, I am going to be up a while. I opened the glass bottle and looked under the lid. The "Real Fact" was numbered 330 and said, "The top of the Empire state building was originally built as a place to anchor blimps." I was so amused by this fact that it inspired me to go to Snapple.com and look up some more:

#25 The only food that doesn't spoil is honey.

#335 "Way" is the most frequently used noun in the English language.

#225 Tennessee banned the use of a lasso to catch fish.

#222 The act of chewing an apple is a more efficient way of staying awake than caffeine.

#339In the U.S., all interstate highways that run east to west are even-numbered.

#223 Mt. Everest has grown one foot over the last 100 years.

#224 The first typewriter was called the "literary piano."

#221 A tune that gets stuck in your head is called an "earworm"

#336 You exhale air at 15 m.p.h.

#335 75% of people wash from top to bottom in the shower.

#42 Frogs can't swallow with their eyes open.

#51 Borborygmi is the noise that your stomach makes when you are hungry.

#118 Hawaii is the only U.S. state that grows coffee.

Now, I am using this research for school (journal) purposes, but I should get back to some real work.

Writing

2007-04-10T08:09:00.000-04:00

Sometimes it hard to write because my heart is not in what I say. I've found that life is like this as well. When I am tired, unwell, or just apethetic following God is fairly difficult, but I am still commanded to do it. In this way Mr. Pulliam, like God, still commands us to write. He wants us to write on things we don't prefer. He wants us to write more then we can handle. He wants us to write in order to perfect our skill, and our person.

I'm glad that I've taken the writing class for three years. I've learned how to write better then most people my age, and though I do not intend to write professionally, the skill of writing is an incredible tool in our world today. I'm thankful that I have been equiped. Amen?

Such a Man

2007-04-05T22:12:00.000-04:00

A man who loves God, a man who loves people, a man who loves a challenge not for challenges sake but rather for a greater good, William Wilberforce was such a man. I just watched Amazing Grace and felt ashamed that I didn't know more about the incredible testimony. God selected Wilberforce for a task, placed him in the right situation, and enabled him claim victory.

Slavery is a horrible thing. Yet the people of the time were not convinced. They perceived personal gain and even the lives of human beings became an acceptable sacrifice on the alter of prosperity. Abortion is not unlike slavery in that way. I wrote a paper last semester about slavery vs. abortion. Amazing Grace has inspired me to fight for the unborn until they are protected.

God is on the side of the oppressed.

Men like William Wilberforce give hope. Let us pray to the Lord of the harvest to send workers into the fields. Let us rise up and defend the defenseless. Let us be so overcome with compassion, by doing so we will walk in the footsteps of our Savior.

A Book Review

2007-04-04T16:11:00.000-04:00

When Crickets Cry Charles Martin

A boat maker, incapable of shedding the habits of his past life, buys some lemonade from little Annie on the street one day. Moments later, after a horrible car accident he is tearing off her yellow dress to get a closer watch of her heart. He straps on his heart monitor, and keeps Annie alive until the meds arrive. He is now faced with the decision of a life time, well two life times, his and Annie's.

Annie needs a new heart.

Reece is a heart surgeon, but he left the practice five years ago. He is one of the most skilled physicians in the world when it comes heart surgery. Yet, his past haunts him, and he refuses to return to the practice.

The book reviews the life of Emma. Her love and her desperate need for a new heart were the sole reasons that Reese became a heart surgeon. When he lost her he lost his motivation as well.

When Crickets Cry is a excellent book about God working all things together for good for those who live Him and are called according to His purpose. I also learned some things about the human heart, and the importance of taking care of the body God has given me. It gave me more reasons to be thankful for the health that I have had all these years. I also know better how to pray for those who have heart trouble.

Read it and tell me what you think. It made me cry, but it made me think as well. It’s challenging to realize that God does not just plan out one purpose for us, but thousands of purpose, and when I get focused on just one, He often has to take it away in order for me to realize the importance of His glory and Kingdom.

A Means of Grace

2007-03-26T09:11:00.000-04:00

I often forget the abundance of God's grace. He has provided for my every need, and beyond that He has given me most every comfort. I could never thank Him enough first for the work of Salvation in my life, but then for all the things He takes care of for me. He loves me, and I just can't get over it.

One of the most incredible means of grace that He has provided for me is fellowship with His church. Yesterday I couldn't go to church because I had a bad spell of the flu. I missed the preaching. I missed the Psalm singing. I missed the love and care of my brothers and sisters in the Lord. What a gracious gift He has given. How can we forget? There are times I even complain about people in church, or find myself wishing that I didn't have to serve the way Jesus commanded. How foolish of me! Coming together for worship on the Lord's day is a duty truly, but in a real sense it is not. Christ has freed us from the law, and a person can go to Heaven without attending church every week. It's possible. The trouble comes when we realize that attending church is a privilege of the Christian faith. Like all the other commandments of the Old Covenant, it transferred from law to grace. Now it is God's means of grace in our hearts and lives. We get to go and worship Him with our brothers and sisters. This morning we get to feel refreshed because yesterday was the Lord's day and we were privilege enough to hear His Word preaches and to sing His praises back to Him.

What a glorious life. It is not all easy, and often these gracious gifts can feel burdensome, but I would remind you who it is that you are serving. If you are serving Christ, then is it truly a hard burden? Is He a cruel Master? Has He laid on your back too much to carry, or is that your own doing? Jesus promised, "Come to me all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Jesus was referring to this principle, of the law no longer being a burden but rather a delight. For He "no longer calls us servants, but He has called us friends." We are His friends; the friends of God Himself. Is it a burden to pray, to talk to Him? Is it a burden to read what it is that He has said in His Word? Then we must be reminded. Let us remember what He has done, and who it is that we serve, and then surely we will delight in His work.

I struggle with this as well; please don't get the wrong idea. I just wanted to write my thoughts out so that perhaps others may benefit from them as well. Thank you.

May God be glorified.

the letter

2007-03-19T09:26:00.000-04:00

Driving home from play practice on Saturday all I could think about was the throbbing pain in the soles of my feet. I had been abusing them all day, and now it was pay-back. I was in a bit of a rush because I had promised the Whitla's I would baby-sit for them at 5:10, and it was ten till. I pulled in the drive, slammed the car door, and headed inside. I walked in the door and began to head upstairs to change shoes when Mom called, "Becca, you have a letter." My mind reeled, "No, not the letter I've been waiting for. It couldn't have come already." I walked over to the table where she was pointing. Low and behold there it laid, a letter addressed to "Miss Rebekah Ann Long" from Grove City College's Admissions office.
I thrust my figures through the seal quickly tearing the envelope open. My eyes stumbled over the words, "Congratulations," "acceptance," and "class of 2011." I was shocked. The answer was a clear as day. My prayers, tears, anxious conversations about college and God's plan were over. He wanted me at Grove City. Had I gotten on the waiting list, which I was hoping to, because I wasn't even sure I'd make that, I would have gone through a whole other process of waiting and searching and discerning the best path to take. We had begged God to give us a clear answer. Here it was, in my hands.
I had prayed with my Dad just two weeks ago that God would open the door to Grove City. He has. He opened it wide, and I could hardly believe the truth.
It's taken a bit of time for everything to sink in. I've told everyone that as far as I know, I'm going to Grove City College this fall, and I'm excited.
The truth is that I'm also nervous. I'm a bit hesitant about moving so far away. I don't know anyone at the school, but God will be with me, and I shall not fear.
These next few months will be full of change. Yet, I am confident in the Lord. He directs my path. May His name be glorified forever and ever.

what I wish I could have said

2007-03-14T21:18:00.000-04:00

We must remember abortion not because it hurts the economy, but because it hurts Christ. Abortion is a moral issue. The people of this day plug their ears at the concept of morality but it's a reality, and we must deal with it in our society.

God hates abortion.

Just as Cain's blood cried out to him in the days of old, the innocent blood of the unborn cries out to Him now, what are we doing about it? More children are being slaughtered each day then all the people who were killed at 9/11. Which image causes more pain: a terrorist who kills, or a mother who kills?

These women are not in their right minds. They have hard hearts. They must be exposed to the light of Christ. We must pray for them. We must pray for the sake of the unborn children who are being sacrificed to the god of Affluence.

We must take abortion seriously. God does. He has restrained his hand thus far, but our mocking God. We must beg for mercy and forgiveness. If we begin to pray, and then talk about the importance of life, think of the difference we can make? "If God is for us, who can be against us?" Let us rise up and defend the defenseless. These children are fatherless, and God has given us a special charge to care for them.

Remember the unborn children in your prayers tonight.

Remember the unborn children, and their mothers, as you live your life. You never know how God will use you if you are willing to proclaim His truth.

Ezekiel 23:39 For when they had slaughtered their children in sacrifice to their idols, on the same day they came into my sanctuary to profane it. And behold, this is what they did in my house.

Psalm 78:6 That children yet unborn might know... to trust in God recall God's works and His commandments heed.

Psalms 10:12-18

12 Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up your hand; forget not the afflicted. 13 Why does the wicked renounce God and say in his heart, You will not call to account? 14 But you do see, for you note mischief and vexation, that you may take it into your hands; to you the helpless commits himself; you have been the helper of the fatherless. 15 Break the arm of the wicked and evildoer; call his wickedness to account till you find none. 16 The Lord is king forever and ever; the nations perish from his land. 17 O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear 18 to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more.

Isaiah 58:6 Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?

Psalm 82:3 Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.

memories

2007-03-10T22:07:00.000-05:00

How is it that a lifeless object can flood the soul with memories?
How is it that a scent can bring a scene to mind from years ago?
How is it that a word or a place can prompt an old emotion?
How is it that a touch can retrieve past feelings?
How is it that a picture can pull you into another world?
How is it that our minds remember so much and so little?
How is it that the strongest memories are often the most insignificant?
How is it that Jesus had the memories of Heaven here on earth?
How is it that we make our memories?
How is it that we cling to that past when we have the present to live for God?

Little Ones

2007-03-07T21:59:00.000-05:00

Hello little ones,

Please hope in Jesus

I don’t know little ones

How you’ll ever forgive us.

Did you know little ones

Someone has knit you?

I’m sorry little ones,

That you’re screams don’t get through.

We’ve missed you little ones

Your laughter and your song

We’re trying little ones

Hopefully it won’t be long.

Oh dear little ones

You’re sacrificed in vain.

Your memory little ones

Will always cause us pain.

We’re praying little ones

God hears and cares for you.

It’s hard little ones

They know not what they do.

Poor in Spirit

2007-03-02T08:47:00.000-05:00

What does it mean to be poor is spirit? Does it mean that we must deprive ourselves the riches Christ has given on this earth? Does it mean we shouldn't seek to know theology or try to understand the Bible? Of course not. Being poor in spirit has to do with our dependance on Christ. We must be needy for Christ. We must be poor and desperate in spirit. We must desire Him above all else, and beg for Him the way the poor beg for alms. We must put any pleasureable pursuit in order to obtain unity with Him. To be poor in spirit is to find riches in the Kingdom. When we are poor and needy for Christ, then He delights in making us rich and fulfilled in Him and His Kingdom.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for thiers in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Christ was poor in spirit. He needed the Father. His soul was made poor on earth, so that God could glorify Him by giving Him the Kingdom.

Amen.

Memorize

2007-02-27T09:53:00.000-05:00

Memorizing is an interesting concept. I have several things to memorize right now, and my brain defiantly feels overloaded. It's gotten to the point where I bring a folder of material to memorize with me everywhere. Yesterday I was about to sit down to go over my speech one more time, and my little mind requested that we do anything but memorize, so I read a Pulliam book instead. It was like a treat to read instead of memorize.

Memorizing is mental weight lifting. You do the same thing, saying it out loud over and over again, and at some point you have to stop because you're about to die. When you hit your breaking point you set it down, and move on to something else, but a day later, it's much easier to do the exact same thing, and your breaking point comes later. It's an interesting concept.

At the moment I'm rememorizing my Right to Life speech, all the lines for my part in The King and I, our Bob Evan's menu abbreviations, and Matthew 5. The difference in all of these is interesting. My mind picks up the lines best, because it's a dialogue. The speech is different because I wrote it so every time I review it I feel compelled to be on the look out for improvement, so I am constantly marking up the work I'm memorizing and making it more difficult to recite for the next time. The menu is fairly easy because usually they are obvious like Homefries are H in the Homefries section, but then some are totally odd, and it gets a bit confusing. The Scriptures are my favorite but the most neglected. My brain doesn't tire so quickly when I memorize the Bible, and it's because it is energizing to recite the Word of God. "Men shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God." Sadly, I get my priorities mixed up, and I don't tackle my Scripture memory the way I should.

Alright, all this to say I should be working on other things, thanks for listening. What are you memorizing in the Bible right now? Have you worked on it today? You should, it's not healthy to starve yourself.

Spring Happy

2007-02-20T11:02:00.000-05:00

This morning, heavy-laden with materials for my day at school, I am overwhelmed with the smell of spring. The snow is melting, and the air has a warm hopeful smell. What a wonderful season. Spring is full of hope and life. Spring is a time of melting away the bitter cold of winter and rejoicing in the growth evident everywhere. I'm glad that we have a spring every year. God is so good.

I want to learn

2007-02-12T20:35:00.000-05:00

I want to learn
how to love when people are unlovable.
I want to learn
how to give when I feel empty inside.
I want to learn
how to hide God's Word in my heart.
I want to learn
how to seek first His Kingdom.
I want to learn
how to trust God with the people that I love, and that He loves more.
I want to learn
how to be a virtuous woman.
I want to learn
how to go without material things for Christ's Kingdom.
I want to learn
how to submit in my heart when I disagree with authority.
I want to learn
how to be patient instead of being irritable.
I want to learn
how to be gracious instead of being unkind.
I want to learn
how to pick up my cross daily and follow Him.
I want to learn
how to share the Gospel everyday.
I want to learn
how to turn the other cheek.
I want to learn
how to share my things with people who are ungrateful.
I want to learn
how to teach God's truth through History.
I want to learn
how to care about others before myself.
I want to learn
how to enjoy God.
I want to learn
how to abide in Jesus.

They called Him teacher for a reason.

For All You Girls...

2007-02-05T08:42:00.000-05:00

You are beautiful. Not because of some lucky genes, but because you are saved. A regenerate heart is the most beautiful thing this world can sustain. Don't forget to praise the one who made you beautiful. Don't forget to adore the Man who died for you. It was no small thing. It took the blood of God Himself to make your beautiful. May He be praised.

You are lovely. Not because of some fortunate romantic relationship, but because you are loved by Love itself. God loves you. He cares more about your then you can fathom. He loved you, so that you could be lovely. He loved you so that you could love. Don't forget to love He who loved you first. Don't forget to love Him enough to follow His commandments, "If you love me, then keep my commandments."

You are honored. Not because you born into some royal family, but because He choose to honor you. He gave up His honor so that you may regain yours. Don't replace it with a cheap reputation. He has given you the title of Princess, "a daughter of the King". Remember to act like the honorable woman He has made you to be.

You are pure. Not because you have kept the law, but because He has. His righteous blood has washed your heart pure. Don't toss it away for momentary pleasure. Imagine your earthly Father's reaction if you were to confess to him some compromising of your purity. How much more does your heavenly Father desire your heart to be blameless before Him? How much more does He love you? How much more does He know about your motives and actions? Don't throw away the desire of Christ our Bridegroom. Right now our beauty is desired by Him (Ps. 45:10) but He will deny us if we deny His work, and live like girls of the world seeking "love" where it can’t be found.

You are noble. Not because of some great act that you have done, but because of His saving grace. You were lost, dead, completely blind. Yet because of His work you are found, because of his Life you are alive, and because of his power you are healed-you can see. Don't throw away the talent and the time He has given you. Do noble things for your Lord. No one else is worthy of your constant attendance. Give Him your heart and your zeal, and you will please Him. Someday He will say to you, "Well done My good, and faithful servant."

You are peaceful. Not because your have reasoned yourself to some point of sanity, but because His everlasting peace-which surpasses understanding- lives in you. Do not forget and become anxious. You would be acting like a pagan (Matt. 6:28) to worry. Rather, rest in Him. "Seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto you." Your Father in Heaven knows what you need, and He will supply it. Trust in Him, and abide in peace all the days of your life.

Now, against these things there is no law. Do not forget who you are in Christ. Do not forget what is yours by inheritance. Live for Him. Live in Him. Further your beauty, loveliness, purity, honor, nobility, and peace. Give Him your heart again today, and allow Him to work in and through you. For the greatness of His glory and honor.

"Seek first the Kingdom of God."

Amen.

Something Old, Something New,

2007-02-02T08:41:00.000-05:00

Isn't it awesome that our God is the God who created the world? He is an eternal God. He has always been. He is the God of the first people who walked on this world. He is the God of great Kings, and defenseless widows. He is the God of men who lived for hundreds of years, and infants in the womb. He is the God of the sea, and the sky. He is the God of the earth and everything that lives upon it. He is God. Let us praise His worthy name.

Yet, He is somehow perfected through suffering. Jesus Christ is God-amen, but He is also Savior. He is the "Old" God that has been and always will be. He was born of a woman. He lived a perfect life in our place, complete obedience to the Father. He died cursed and hated in our place, for our sins. He saved His people, and He brought glory to His Father. His Father in turn has brought glory to Him.

What is it? Why should Jesus Christ the everliving God, die for us? We hated Him. He loved us. Let us fear the God of Heaven and earth. Let us fear the God who has the power to send souls to Hell forever. Let us fear the God who spoke and the world was brought into being. Let us fear this God who has saved our wretched souls. Let us fear Him will all our hearts. Perhaps if we were to have proper fear for God, then we'd be about His business.

We don't know when Jesus will come. He is coming. Let us not be lazy. Let us be ready for His return. It will be a fearful day. Many will say, "Lord, Lord," and He will say He never knew them. Let us be quick to love righteouness and abide in Jesus.

"And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assureance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of thsoe who through faith and patience inherit the promises." Hebrews 6:11-12

"I ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU-UU!"

2007-01-31T22:16:00.000-05:00

Four girls pile in the cold Taurus. They waved goodbye to their friends, parting with giggles and sweet farewells. Cathy and Beth sat in the back seat, but not for long. Cathy popped out because she forgot her all-too-vital pj bag. The car began to roll out of the McDonalds parking lot with Cathy and Beth laughing about the guy who messed up every order.

The car drove onto 65 North, with the girls listening to Delilah. A woman was asking advice about the relationship she was in with a man who was 11 years younger. Delilah suggested that they get together, and then a familiar song began to play on the radio. The volume was turned up high, and all the girls screamed out, the only words they could understand in the redundant chorus, “I ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU-UU!”

It was a blast. We sang louder each time, “I ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU-UU.!” We missed the rhythm a couple times, but it only made it more true: “I only want to be with you.”

We laughed in-between choruses, and I smiled. I love life. I love cruising down the highway with my lil sisters and friend. I love blasting a song, and singing “I ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU-UU!”

It’s good to have fun sometimes.

A Necessary Love

2007-01-24T23:26:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time

A man was hurt.

We knew him, but

Treated him like dirt.

He needed clothes,

And we’d just stare.

He needed food.

And we didn’t care.

He needed a drink.

And we’d just walk.

He needed shelter

And we didn’t talk.

One day the King will come.

He’ll be upset with us.

We’ll wonder why.

Then He will cry.

“Why did you leave Me?

Why didn’t you care?
Why’d you pass by?”

“Oh Lord, we didn’t!”

We love you so.

When were you hurt?

When did we go?”

“Truly I say to you,

as you do not do one

of the least of these,

you did not to me.”

Matthew 25:45

But if anyone has the world’s goods

And sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against Him,

How does God’s love abide in Him?

I John 3

I must learn to love.

something about...

2007-01-22T23:49:00.000-05:00

There's something about talking to a best friend for hours... and there's nothing like it. We can cover every topic under the sun, or stay on one important subject rehashing very aspect. It's a lovely thing to be known, and to be comfortable. There's something about being able to reveal every emotion to a person, because they understand, and it's ok. Jesus is our best friend, but He has given us miniature examples of who He is, by giving us best friends. He also gives us pastors to show us a picture of Him as our Great Shepherd.
Cheers to best friends. There's nothing like them.

What I know...

2007-01-22T13:33:00.000-05:00

There is a woman who bore 11 children. The eldest is a girl is Rebekah. She goes to work, goes to school, and tries to maintain some order in the house in-between. Someday soon she will graduate and leave home to pursue her education. She will miss them. Luke is next. He is a great guy. It's easy for him to be liked by almost anyone. He works and plays basketball. Luke is the type of guy who can keep his cool when the world is turning upside down (according to Rebekah's standards.) Little Elizabeth follows. She is a very diligent girl. Her love for music is heard throughout the house. She loves her family and friends, and is determined that all of the 11 children will live in the same neighborhood when they are grown. Jacob is forth. He is kind, but sometimes his humor will cause unrest. Jacob is smart and dedicated to the task before him. He will often give a hug and smile to those in need of love. Anna is next. She is tall, and enjoys basketball like Luke. She has a gift with young children, and would rather hold a baby than almost anything else. Anna is 13, an age that has caused many girls great drama. Anna has lived the year with color. Levi is sixth. He is strong willed and a good leader. He is the first of four boys in a row. Levi works on school, and plays basketball. He has a soft spot for people, but since he is a boy it doesn't always come out. John Calvin follows. He is quick to smile and laugh. John is a very smart boy, and if he would put his mind to it he will become a great and learned man. Alex comes next. He is strong and determined like Jacob. His passion can often cause emotional upheaval. Alex has a big heart, and a cool personality. Sam is ninth. He is trying to be like his five older brothers, yet he has lost his boyish qualities. Sam has a natural tendency to be extremely polite and considerate. He will hopefully regain them in due time. Jerusha is the first girl after all the boys. She is pretty and eager for attention. Right now she loves games and will beg anyone and everyone to play with her. She is a bit of a Daddy's girl. Jerusha takes care of her younger sister, but still claims baby position sometimes. Keziah comes last. She is brilliant for being two. Kez already knows all of her letters by sight, something we did not teach her. Keziah is stubborn, and cute. She likes to do things her own way on her own time schedule. Kez also loves to sing.
The two parents that also live in the house are basically saints. They have done an amazing job of caring for all of the children. The kids have been homeschooled since day one, and their mother has taught them well. Their father has diligently provided for their every need, and still finds time to be their Daddy. They have poured themselves out for these 11 children and proved themselves excellent examples of living for Christ.

...and this is what I know.

work, college and last semester of highschool

2007-01-20T17:33:00.000-05:00

Some people make these grand statements about how great senior year is, and they probably have a good reason to say such things. Yet, we should not forget that senior year for a homeschooled kid is a bit different than for the upperclassmen in the schools.
I basically live a life of transition. I work mornings, which is only legal for homeschool kids. I have 19 college credits completed over the course of three semesters at Marian college. I am in the middle of forth semester, and I am really going to miss Marian. I know the students. I am familiar with the professors. I almost wish I could stay.
This year I have been painfully aware of my upcoming departure, which is a whole other dilemma. I have enjoyed this year, but it's full of big decisions and responsibilities. There is lot's of opportunity to envy the friends who have already gone, and look down on the friends who are making the same mistakes I made two years ago. Yet, God has been faithful. With every failure of mine, He has proved His greatness. I have said goodbye to a lot of people this year. I will say goodbye to even more next year, but I will never have to say goodbye to my Lord and Savior.
Please pray for me. I am unsure of the days ahead, and I have a hard time learning to trust for the present.
To God be the Glory.

I Remember

2007-01-15T11:27:00.000-05:00

I remember trying to look over the counter-top on my tip-toes.
I remember dreading nap time.
I remember being small enough for a piggy-back ride.
I remember learning how to ride my bike.
I remember wishing I could do my own hair.
I remember helping the babysitters take care of everyone.
I remember sitting on the steps in the Old Sactuary during Communion.
I remember reading the day away.
I remember baking cookies by myself for the first time.
I remember growing out of my shoes.
I remember talking to my neighbor about Jesus, and praying with her.
I remember hoping that Mom would let me go to Alissa's after church.
I remember wondering where baby's came from.
I remember needing to find Mr. Pig before I could go to sleep.
I remember crying because Jacob was sick, and I was jealous.
I remember lying, and then having to tell on myself.
I remember whispering because Daddy said no more talking.
I remember pretending that I was a Mommy.
I remember telling Ellie she was my second best friend.
I remember asking Jesus into my heart four times in one night, just to be sure.
I remember preparing home dates for Mom and Dad in the dining room.
I remember loving my living baby dolls.
I remember seeing a dollar as small fortune.
I remember getting done with school in two hours, and still complaining.
I remember disliking coffee, and "why do you like it Daddy?"
I remember playing with Beth instead of going to sleep.
I remember living in another world.

a horizon

2007-01-09T22:07:00.000-05:00

A girl shouldn't be overwhelmed by the horizon of opportunity. Should she? It used to be that when a person was born in a place she basically lived there all her life. I guess Eve broke that trend.

No seriously, right now I am excited. There are so many things I could do with the life which I call mine. I'm not to know the future, but it does bring a question and a smile. "The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps." Pro. 16:9

I just wonder if there is a place for wonder. I suppose there is a righteous wonder of God and His glory. If I keep my wonder in focus then perhaps I won't worry.

He knows. He always has.

back to it

2007-01-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

Hey, how are you? Marian starts back up today. The exciting thing is that I don't stat until tomorrow because my classes all fall on Tuesday/Thursdays, a reason for great rejoicing. My Christmas break was very nice. I rested, and got a grip on the reality of the year 2007, and all that I must accomplish.

I got hired at Bob Evans last week. You are all welcome to come visit me as soon as I get the hang of what I'm doing. I have been told that friends and family get a 20% discount, but my boss hasn't mentioned it to me, yet, so I'll keep you posted on that. (No pun intended.)

Winter Conference went wonderfully. I will get you some pictures here soon. Or, I'll put them on my picture blog/facebook more likely. Rut's sermons were excellent. God answered the many prayers that were laid up for the high school kids at the conference. He worked in the hearts of many, and I pray He will continue to burn in our hearts so that we may be a generation zealous for our King.

I am looking forward to this semester. I'm can only take 5 more credit hours at Marian, so I'm taking voice, weight training, and Philosophy. I'll be working a lot, but there will be a change of pace in my schedule which will be welcomed.

Press on in the faith.

Love,
Rebekah Ann

A New Year?

2007-01-01T10:49:00.000-05:00

The first day of the year is such an amazing concept. We have an opportunity to start all over. Yet, how often do we really accomplish the things that we desire? Our secular world loves the New Year because they feel better about getting "another chance" to have what ever it is they want. I've found in my short life that it's easy to make a list of resolutions and then forget then two weeks later.

People make a big deal about New Years, but let's think about why. There is an element of hope in time rather than Christ. People will put confidence in the fact that it's January first with no regrets, but unless they seek Christ they will find the same thing happening year after year: a nice party, and a nice concept, but no true change in their behavior.

Let's help people. It's an excellent time to ask people about the hope within them, and then perhaps they will ask us the same question. We live in a dark and hopeless world. We love a bright and hopeful Savior.

What do you call...

2006-12-23T18:12:00.000-05:00

What do you call
talking with a good friend for the first time in too long?
What do you call
sipping black coffee when it's almost too hot?
What do you call
laughing with relatives at Christmas time and realizing that you are one of the big people?
What do you call
listening to your sister play piano and missing her already?
What do you call
a tight hug around the leg and "I uvv you Be-cca."?
What do you call
a compassionate expression from someone who you love?
What do you call
singing God's Word until it stirs your soul to overflowing at the windows?
What do you call
a tight and reassuring hug from a friend?
What do you call
a blessing from a 95-year-old great-grandmother?
What do you call
a note found on your bed from a beloved brother: "Becca, don't fail college... I love you."?
What do you call
a sleeping garden full of hope?
What do you call
finally coming to love the very writing class you've hated?
What do you call
cherishing wisdom as if you were about to leave on a journey with your own ring to concur?
What do you call
whispers and hushed laughter at a far between sleep over?
What do you call
a phone call from a cousin who's 4 days, 20 hours, and thirty minutes older than you?
What do you call
a Savior of the world in a feeding troth?
What do you call
a soul moving from earth to Heaven?
What do you call
a people freed from sin?

honor once lost

2006-12-14T09:21:00.000-05:00

In todays culture girls wear pants too. We cut our hair short, and claim that we are as good as boys in basically everything (maybe even better.) The trouble is that it's not the way it's supposed to be. I know several girls who would read this and disagree with me, but I'm going to take a stab at what at least some girls really appreciates, and maybe it will help guys understand.
Despite the feminest movement, this girl is flattered when the door is held open for her. There is nothing so sweet, and in our culture unexpected, as a boy waiting a couple seconds because a girl a few yards away is coming towards the door and he has decided to hold it open for her. At Marian guys don't hold the door open for every girl. The sporty ones give the vibe that they would rather open it themselves, and maybe that is their loss and they regret it I don't know, but the girls who dress like girls, and have a feminine attitude the guys will treat them like girls. Maybe it goes beyond what we wear to what we expect. This semester I have been honored by a few guys who take the time to courteously wait for me to walk through the open door, and I really appreciate it.
Guys will struggle with whether they would offend a girl by holding the door open, and I can understand their confusion because a lot of girls take their thoughtfulness as an insult. They think, "what!? Just because I'm a girl you think you have to hold the door open? No sir, I can get it thanks."
I just wanted to say thanks to the gentlemen out there who repect girls, and try to honor them with little gestures of courtesy. It used to be expected, now it's a pleasant surprise. Thanks to all you guys who open the door, carry the heavy box, get the luggage, carry the food tray, take out the trash, stir the too-hard-to-mix cookie dough, warm up the car. All those little things are a token of your respect and care for the girls you know and love. We really appreciate it.

Intermission: Christmas Break

2006-12-11T14:18:00.000-05:00

Semesters are like long acts in a play. You wear the same comstume, and do the same basic routine everyday. Then comes Christmas break, and though everyone calls it break, it's like an intermission. Yes, the audience may think that intermission is a bit relaxing and restful, but the actors are rushing around back stage not even able to catch their breath. They get ready for the next act and then the play continues.
Christmas break is not much a break. Everyday is packed with people to meet with and projects to get done. I'm glad we have a break, because otherwise next semester won't be possible, but at the same time it's almost like I will need a break from break. =)

What if she's always known Him?

2006-12-05T20:51:00.000-05:00

A girl in a light jacket stands chilled on the street corner. She holds a stack of tracks in one hand, while warming the other in her pocket. The traffic light turns green and dozens of Christmasly minded people walk her way. She passes out the leaflets hoping that someone will stop to talk with her. The crowd takes the papers without much more than an inquisitive glance and a mumbled "thanks." When the last stragglers had gone she sighed heavily and thought, "America is too busy for the Gospel today." A strange voice interrupted her, "what are you handing out there?" She turned around quickly and her heart beat faster. The man stood with a cigarette held to his mouth, and a puzzled look on his face. She wondered if his question was prompted by pity, considering he had been standing there while the crowd dusted her efforts. "Well, these are tracks explaining the Gospel sir." He looked at her, "I'm a Marine miss, and I my Mamma would be so proud of you standing out here like this. Do you do it because you want to, or does someone make you come?" The girl smiled, there were a couple ways she could answer that. If it were up to her alone there would be no way in the world standing downtown for 3 hours to share the Gospel would appeal in the least. Yet, she was not her own. She was saved, and the Holy Spirit had her out here tonight. There was no where else she'd rather be. "I want to be here sir." He glanced up curious at her determination. "I'm a Christian sir, and people need to hear about what Jesus has done to save the lost..." He cut in, "oh, I think it's great. I grew up Methodist, and I go to church every time I'm home. See I'm a Marine. I just got home this month, and my Mamma was really upset to hear that I don't attend church in Iraq or even pray." The girl looked up sincerely, "I want to thank you for your service. I really appreciate it." He shifted his feet uncomfortably. She wondered if anyone had ever thanked him before. Than she caught his hazel eyes again, "Why didn't you pray in Iraq?" He tossed the unfinished cigarette butt away as if to symbolize some excuse for leaving the scene. "I wanted to do it alone." She thought he was still talking about praying, "Well, I would tend to agree that a forced prayer isn't of much value." "No, I wanted to do Iraq alone." His voice was proud, and, perhaps regretful. "When I'm ready, I won't be a Methodist Christian. They're just so watered down." This man had spent some time thinking about religion, but it didn't save his soul, and he knew it. She wondered aloud, “When will you be ready?” He shrugged his shoulders, “sometime I guess.” He then courteously asked about her church, and why she liked it so much. He asked about the differences between most denominations and Presbyterian. Finally, after a brief overview he looked up from the side walk where his eyes were fixed on a lonely crushed leaf, "Miss, have you been a Christian all your life?" What should she say, the time was short, he was about to leave, and the answer was so crucial. "Well, I've known about Jesus since I can remember because my parents were eager to teach me, but I wasn't born a Christian; in fact I was born a sinner deserving of Hell. I am a Christian now, and I'm forever thankful for Christ’s work on the cross." He looked almost jealous, and a bit sorrowful, then anger and apathy took over and he tried to casually say, "well, I've got friends inside. Nice talking with you Rebekah."
"Thanks Brett. You too."

*Sigh* It wasn't the first time she had received a raised eyebrow when sharing her testimony. She can tell that most are thinking, "yeah, she just doesn't know any different. Just wait till she gets out, of course her parents can brainwash her now, but there will be a day when she'll wake up." This guy didn't seem too different. There was a bit of discouragement in her voice as she began to pass out the tracks again. Then she remembered Him. She remembered how awesome it is to be His, and to not remember anything different. A smile leapt on her lips as she squeezed her eyes shut tight and whispered, "Thank you Jesus. Thank you so much."

2006-12-04T19:07:00.000-05:00

Picking out a Christmas tree can be very fun with my family.

"Alright Jerusha smile."

"Jerusha keep your eyes OPEN!!!!!!"

"OK, Becca." lol

Anna and Sam.

Yes there are more pictures, but I should be working on school now.

"Bec-caaaaaa!"

2006-12-01T21:13:00.000-05:00

"Becca, Becca, Bec-caaaaaa!" Says Kez as she comes running towards me. Her arms open wide and she smiles with excitement. As I wrap her in a hug she lays her head instinctively on my shoulder, and I rock her for a moment. A glance at the clock makes my heart sink. I have to be at class. I have to leave now. "*Sigh* Kez, Beccca has to go to school." She looks up at me. Her finger lodged in her mouth (something she does for comfort.) "I know. I'll miss you too. Here, go to Anna." Keziah reluctantly is passed to Anna's waiting arms, and I grab my keys. Her cries are too hard to ignore. I dash back in the room, "Hey, I love you, and I'll be back soon." Tears stream down her little face, "ggec-caaa *sob*" I pick her up quickly, and whisper in her precious ear, "What are you going to do when I really leave baby? I won't be here for much longer." As if to comprehend the pain of our semi-permanent parting her grip tightened around my neck. "I've got to go Darling." Anna tried to console her, as I walked out to the car. Tears filled my eyes as I slipped the keys into the ignition. "Saying goodbye is so hard Jesus." He knew what I meant. He knew that He needed to hold me as I imagined the pain moving out next year.

Last night after I got home from school and babysitting Keziah was already in bed. I decided that I would slip into my PJ's and sleep right in-between her and Jerusha on their double bed. I'm sure it won't be the last time I snuggle up beside my baby sisters and rest in the knowledge of God's perfect plan.

rain drops are falling on my head [silly Becca]

2006-11-29T13:06:00.000-05:00

Right now I'm a happy girl. I rejoice in my Savior's work, and I refuse to believe the lies of the evil one. I am eating dark chocolate for lunch, don't tell me mom, and I am drinking lots of coffee. Some may say that considering my consumption of caffiene my attitude is being effected by outside sorces. Well, maybe that's true, but I know that it is surely the case that my attitude is effected by Christ, because without Him I would be miserable beyond comprehension, so I'm thankful.

Let's keep our eyes on Him. When finals pile up and things look bleak it's easy to freak out and forget to trust Him. Let's trust Him.

Alright, I'm glad that it's almost Christmas.

Thank you for listening, and if you are my friend, thanks for being my friend. If you're not, maybe we should be friends.