Praise the Lord! I give Him all the glory, honour and credit for all He has done for me! I am finally finished school now until September. On Friday morning I handed in my assignments. After all the difficulties I had to face this semester including the passing of my Stepfather, the school gave me an extension to finish. This was God's grace.
I am almost settled into my apartment and am seeking a home for my furniture. It is wrapped in plastic in the backyard as it will not fit in this place. I have a tiny basement suite. When the Lord called me here to Alberta, I prayed about what to keep and what to give away. I wanted to keep my bed, dresser, and my big desk. The desk takes up most of my livingroom, LOL, but I call it my Ministry desk. It is great for studying, research, writing and fits my personality! The couch and loveseat were not on that list, and I want to bless a Christian family or organization. Please pray for someone to be blessed!
Now that I have the summer break, I will focus on employment, health, grieving and the Lord. I have not really grieved my losses this year and need the Lord to heal and mend many areas. My stepfather is with the Lord now, and that makes me smile. However, there is so much I need to focus on, allowing the Lord to wrap His loving arms around me, loving and strengthening me.
I am looking forward to writing and reading this summer. There are books that I have wanted to read for awhile, just no time during studies. I anticipate this time with the Lord.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Thursday, May 26, 2005
In the River
Lord,
You are the twinkle in my eye,
You are the love in my heart,
You are the bounce in my step,
You make me shine.
Your word gives me sustenance,
Your Spirit speaks deep wisdom within,
You feed my soul,
You speak whispers of knowledge.
You fill me to overflowing,
Gentle streams gurgling in my laughter,
Rushing rivers pouring forth,
Giving me the ride for eternity.
I am white water rafting in the river of life,
Jesus my friend is with me,
The Holy Spirit is guiding my path,
My Father is Smiling down at me....
I am having the most fulfilling time in my life,
Full of joy and new experiences,
The work on the River is challenging,
It can be hard, but exhilarating....
Wanna come for a ride?
You are the twinkle in my eye,
You are the love in my heart,
You are the bounce in my step,
You make me shine.
Your word gives me sustenance,
Your Spirit speaks deep wisdom within,
You feed my soul,
You speak whispers of knowledge.
You fill me to overflowing,
Gentle streams gurgling in my laughter,
Rushing rivers pouring forth,
Giving me the ride for eternity.
I am white water rafting in the river of life,
Jesus my friend is with me,
The Holy Spirit is guiding my path,
My Father is Smiling down at me....
I am having the most fulfilling time in my life,
Full of joy and new experiences,
The work on the River is challenging,
It can be hard, but exhilarating....
Wanna come for a ride?
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Remember Jesus
I just finished studying the Pastoral Letters. Actually finished my assignment yesterday. Paul gave Timothy much commands, directions and advice for living out the call God put on his life. One of the things that Paul taught was to remember Jesus.
2 Timothy 2:8-13
8Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, 9for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained. 10Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
11Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
12if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
13if we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.
Pretty powerful words from Paul. I wondered why Paul had this teaching in here about remembering Jesus. When you look at the life he led, how could he not remember him? However, when you are enduring hardship for the sake of the gospel it is important to keep Christ the focus. If not, it would be easy to allow suffering to overtake you, giving Satan too much ground. It is when you let your guard down that Satan will attack who the Saviour is, trying with all his might to pull your eyes away from the one that saved you.
Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. There is no other way.
2 Timothy 2:8-13
8Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, 9for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained. 10Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.
11Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
12if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
13if we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.
Pretty powerful words from Paul. I wondered why Paul had this teaching in here about remembering Jesus. When you look at the life he led, how could he not remember him? However, when you are enduring hardship for the sake of the gospel it is important to keep Christ the focus. If not, it would be easy to allow suffering to overtake you, giving Satan too much ground. It is when you let your guard down that Satan will attack who the Saviour is, trying with all his might to pull your eyes away from the one that saved you.
Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. There is no other way.
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Life is Full of Surprises
I want to thank the Lord, once again for all things that pass my way, good and bad, negative or positive, hardships or blessings.
I have moved into my new place,which has its own comedic set of errors! First of all, and now the second apartment since I moved to this city, my furniture will not fit. So, my couch and loveseat are on the back lawn wrapped in plastic. So, either I sell or give to the Salvation Army. The next few weeks will help out there.
Secondly, on Monday I locked myself out of the apartment. It was about 5- 5:30 in the afternoon. I had no access to a phone, no money, did not know the landlord's number, did not have other numbers handy. So, I thought, I cannot just wait here, this will take forever. So, placed my hand on the door and said Lord, please help me I need a miracle! Then I knocked on the tenants door, I thought they were home as the 2 cats sound like a herd of elephants. No one home. Then went to the shed and grabbed one tool box and my briefcase, hoping that maybe there would be a bobby pin. Worth a shot, I am thinking. Then I remembered I had left the 2 windows open. So, the one side of the house I thought someone would call the cops for sure, as it is wide open. So, I decided to climb through the bush and try the other side of the house. I had to bend and pry the screen open. The opening of the window was 17" wide by 13" height. The drop to the bed was a few feet. Can you imagine I made it through the window with no injury? Afterward, my thumb and wrist hurt a little. So I praised and thank God for the miracle. First of all, that I was not fat, secondly flexible enough to bend through the window like that, thirdly that I did not have to wait for a long period of time for someone to show up. Fourthly, felt relief that knowing if I ever had to make an exit out ofthe window, at least I know I can fit through.
I would like to thank the Lord for His help with my schoolwork. I only have 2 assignments left to do which both have to be completed in the next 6-7 days maximum. It is only by the grace of God that I have managed to do this, move, deal with a relationship break up,etc. ...all at the same time! There are blessings in the adversities of life. We must remember to thank God for all of them!
I have moved into my new place,which has its own comedic set of errors! First of all, and now the second apartment since I moved to this city, my furniture will not fit. So, my couch and loveseat are on the back lawn wrapped in plastic. So, either I sell or give to the Salvation Army. The next few weeks will help out there.
Secondly, on Monday I locked myself out of the apartment. It was about 5- 5:30 in the afternoon. I had no access to a phone, no money, did not know the landlord's number, did not have other numbers handy. So, I thought, I cannot just wait here, this will take forever. So, placed my hand on the door and said Lord, please help me I need a miracle! Then I knocked on the tenants door, I thought they were home as the 2 cats sound like a herd of elephants. No one home. Then went to the shed and grabbed one tool box and my briefcase, hoping that maybe there would be a bobby pin. Worth a shot, I am thinking. Then I remembered I had left the 2 windows open. So, the one side of the house I thought someone would call the cops for sure, as it is wide open. So, I decided to climb through the bush and try the other side of the house. I had to bend and pry the screen open. The opening of the window was 17" wide by 13" height. The drop to the bed was a few feet. Can you imagine I made it through the window with no injury? Afterward, my thumb and wrist hurt a little. So I praised and thank God for the miracle. First of all, that I was not fat, secondly flexible enough to bend through the window like that, thirdly that I did not have to wait for a long period of time for someone to show up. Fourthly, felt relief that knowing if I ever had to make an exit out ofthe window, at least I know I can fit through.
I would like to thank the Lord for His help with my schoolwork. I only have 2 assignments left to do which both have to be completed in the next 6-7 days maximum. It is only by the grace of God that I have managed to do this, move, deal with a relationship break up,etc. ...all at the same time! There are blessings in the adversities of life. We must remember to thank God for all of them!
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Trusting in God
As I go through my journey, I realize this is an area that I am still struggling with. The Lord started teaching me Easter 2004 that I really need to let go and let Him steer the course. Right now I am in the Lord's ship, on his waters, chartered for unknown territory. The Lord is my rudder and is steering my direction. The moment I get worried or anxious about a circumstance in my life, in other words a storm is brewing or I am in the middle of the storm, I grab onto that rudder for dear life and try to steer it myself.
This is the difference between trusting God in all things and not trusting Him to see me through the hard times. I want to be like Jesus, sleeping on the boat, unaware of the storm around me. Why? Because all of my trust is in God. This is a difficult process to learn.
Last night I received that today I should write about trust. I looked through the psalms and found some amazing scriptures I would like to share.
Psa 25:21 May my goodness and honesty preserve me, because I trust in you.
Psa 27:14 Trust in the LORD. Have faith, do not despair. Trust in the LORD.
Psa 28:7 The LORD protects and defends me; I trust in him. He gives me help and makes me glad; I praise him with joyful songs.
Psa 31:14 But my trust is in you, O LORD; you are my God.
Psa 31:19 How wonderful are the good things you keep for those who honor you! Everyone knows how good you are, how securely you protect those who trust you.
Psa 32:10 The wicked will have to suffer, but those who trust in the LORD are protected by his constant love.
Psa 37:5 Give yourself to the LORD; trust in him, and he will help you;
Psa 38:15 But I trust in you, O LORD; and you, O Lord my God, will answer me.
Psa 56:3 When I am afraid, O LORD Almighty, I put my trust in you.
Psa 56:4 I trust in God and am not afraid; I praise him for what he has promised. What can a mere human being do to me?
Psa 62:8 Trust in God at all times, my people. Tell him all your troubles, for he is our refuge.
Psa 84:12 LORD Almighty, how happy are those who trust in you!
Psa 115:11 Trust in the LORD, all you that worship him. He helps you and protects you.
Psa 119:66 Give me wisdom and knowledge, because I trust in your commands.
Psa 143:8 Remind me each morning of your constant love, for I put my trust in you. My prayers go up to you; show me the way I should go.
I chose 15 verses from Psalms in the Good News Bible. There are 134 verses found in the old and new testament of the Good News Bible that menti0n trust. As you can see from these verses alone, there are many positives to trusting God. There is an unshakeable confidence in who God is, that He will always protect and help you. He answers us, guides us to where we should go. Wisdom and knowledge are ours for the taking, he listens to our troubles and answers us. We are happy, filled with gladness and enveloped in His love.
I feel much at peace after reading these pslams. I will continue to read these verses of scripture over the next little while, as I desperately seek to trust Him in all things.
This is the difference between trusting God in all things and not trusting Him to see me through the hard times. I want to be like Jesus, sleeping on the boat, unaware of the storm around me. Why? Because all of my trust is in God. This is a difficult process to learn.
Last night I received that today I should write about trust. I looked through the psalms and found some amazing scriptures I would like to share.
Psa 25:21 May my goodness and honesty preserve me, because I trust in you.
Psa 27:14 Trust in the LORD. Have faith, do not despair. Trust in the LORD.
Psa 28:7 The LORD protects and defends me; I trust in him. He gives me help and makes me glad; I praise him with joyful songs.
Psa 31:14 But my trust is in you, O LORD; you are my God.
Psa 31:19 How wonderful are the good things you keep for those who honor you! Everyone knows how good you are, how securely you protect those who trust you.
Psa 32:10 The wicked will have to suffer, but those who trust in the LORD are protected by his constant love.
Psa 37:5 Give yourself to the LORD; trust in him, and he will help you;
Psa 38:15 But I trust in you, O LORD; and you, O Lord my God, will answer me.
Psa 56:3 When I am afraid, O LORD Almighty, I put my trust in you.
Psa 56:4 I trust in God and am not afraid; I praise him for what he has promised. What can a mere human being do to me?
Psa 62:8 Trust in God at all times, my people. Tell him all your troubles, for he is our refuge.
Psa 84:12 LORD Almighty, how happy are those who trust in you!
Psa 115:11 Trust in the LORD, all you that worship him. He helps you and protects you.
Psa 119:66 Give me wisdom and knowledge, because I trust in your commands.
Psa 143:8 Remind me each morning of your constant love, for I put my trust in you. My prayers go up to you; show me the way I should go.
I chose 15 verses from Psalms in the Good News Bible. There are 134 verses found in the old and new testament of the Good News Bible that menti0n trust. As you can see from these verses alone, there are many positives to trusting God. There is an unshakeable confidence in who God is, that He will always protect and help you. He answers us, guides us to where we should go. Wisdom and knowledge are ours for the taking, he listens to our troubles and answers us. We are happy, filled with gladness and enveloped in His love.
I feel much at peace after reading these pslams. I will continue to read these verses of scripture over the next little while, as I desperately seek to trust Him in all things.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Saturday, May 07, 2005
In Pursuit of Him
For those that may have already read this post, I apologize, I decided to edit and re-publish.
A few days ago, I finally finished the third of three books. Praise the Lord! Now I have to write a 12 page critical book review. This is part of a course I am taking called 'Gospel in Action'. It was also tied into my trip to Vancouver.
As I read this last book, there were many moments I felt the Holy Spirit speaking to me, nudging ever so gently. Reading these books had me reflect on some of the things I have had to endure since following the call of God on my life. One of those areas is in finances. It has been a struggle and is a walk of faith. As I realized how tight things were the other day, I could only make partial payments on some of my bills. I just said, 'I trust you Lord'. I really do. I know you will provide.
I decided to call my Mom to let her know how things were and that I was moving next week for sure. My Brother answered the phone. Of course we got on the subject of finances and I let him know how nice it was that I only had to pay the landlord half of my deposit for now. I mentioned that work was slow, only 16.5 hours this week. Well, later that evening, I found out I will be receiving an early birthday gift to help out with expenses. My birthday is 5 weeks away, but it will be perfect timing. At the end of the month I need $750.00, next week I need well over $300.00. This week I am only made $150.00. Next week, I am scheduled with less hours and will make less than that. Praise the Lord for His provision!
By the way, some of this gift is from my Brother whom is not a Christian, but I believe will be one day. He said that so many times I gave him thought gifts, and told me how much he had appreciated all those times. Now, he was able to do things for me. I write this with tears in my eyes. The Lord has done so many tremendous things with my family. The Lord gave me a dream early 2002 that said I would be bringing my family to the Lord. After that, my Mom and Stepfather both became born again. My Father, although he has not officially become born again, calls Jesus his Lord. I taught him how to pray, and he speaks with blessings toward me, always acknowledging God. My brother asks questions, but has not become born again.
In this dream the Lord gave me in 2002, there had been a great snowstorm. There was ice and lots of snow. My job was to delegate what it is each member of my family had to do in order to save the house. My brother decided to borrow the neighbour's snowblower. It was the middle of the night and he had taken it without permission. We all worked through the night. In the morning, my Brother returned the snowblower to the neighbour and apologized for having taken it without permission. He also offered to replace the gas he had used. The neighbour said, 'Don't worry about it son.' He placed his hand on my brothers's back and then said, 'Let's go catch some fish.'
I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I was when I woke up from my dream. Since then, I have seen radical transformations in my family. Just the other day, after my Dad realized I broke up with my boyfriend, he offered words of comfort. He said, "Don't worry Karen God is with you always." Wow! I sense the power of the Holy Spirit, even now as I write this post. The Lord is doing a beautiful work and I want to glorify His holy name! Thank you Lord!!!
See how the Lord works? I came in to write one thing and it turned into a wonderful testimony! However, I still have it upon my heart to write a couple of paragraphs from the book I just finished reading, which ties into the things you encounter as you pursue the call of God. This book is called, "Churches that Make a Difference - Reaching your Community with Good News and Good Works" by Ronald J. Sider, Philip N. Olson and Heidi Rolland Unruh. I will quote from pages 309-310:
It is no coincidence that many of the great moments in salvation history start out with a trek through the wilderness. Abraham, Moses and the Israelites, and Jesus all found themselves wandering through the desert after responding to God's calling. As your congregation answers God's invitation to join in holistic mission, you can expect to pass through the wilderness. You will most likely encounter the test of inadequate finances, personnel, and space. You will endure temptations to turn aside, turn away, slow down, speed up, and sell out. You will struggle to develop ministry leaders who share the holistic vision, are passionate servants of the Lord, and can work together as a team. As Nehemiah faced the taunts of Sanballat and Tobiah as he worked to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem (Neh.4:1-3), you will experience opposition to the ministry, from outside as well as inside the congregation.
If your congregation (and particularly its leadership) is committed to the Lord, to one another, and to love of neighbour, these trials will not derail God's plan for your church. It is in the desert that the Holy Spirit teaches us key truths, tests our character and purpose, and strengthens us for ministry. God's strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). Through costs, change, and conflict, God pours out onto the church his boundless, all-sufficient love, power and grace - which we then proclaim in our evangelism and demonstrate in our works of compassion and justice. A congregation that ventures into holistic ministry can thus share Paul's confidence "that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ" (Phil. 1:6).
This book was written to help churches pursue, develop and implement an holistic vision and ministry. There are many aspects of this book that would equally assist you in your pursuit of God. It also opens up your eyes in different areas, stretches you cerebrally to understand the sociological problems we face and how the church is intertwined.
On a final note, I am blessed and thankful for having the opportunity to work on this assignment. If not, I would not have read this book. I am thankful for the encouragement I received. As I walk through my wilderness with the Lord, I will remember some of these words. Now, over the next couple of days, I will trust God as I write my critical book review. I will trust that He will grant me clarity, patience, joy and peace.
A few days ago, I finally finished the third of three books. Praise the Lord! Now I have to write a 12 page critical book review. This is part of a course I am taking called 'Gospel in Action'. It was also tied into my trip to Vancouver.
As I read this last book, there were many moments I felt the Holy Spirit speaking to me, nudging ever so gently. Reading these books had me reflect on some of the things I have had to endure since following the call of God on my life. One of those areas is in finances. It has been a struggle and is a walk of faith. As I realized how tight things were the other day, I could only make partial payments on some of my bills. I just said, 'I trust you Lord'. I really do. I know you will provide.
I decided to call my Mom to let her know how things were and that I was moving next week for sure. My Brother answered the phone. Of course we got on the subject of finances and I let him know how nice it was that I only had to pay the landlord half of my deposit for now. I mentioned that work was slow, only 16.5 hours this week. Well, later that evening, I found out I will be receiving an early birthday gift to help out with expenses. My birthday is 5 weeks away, but it will be perfect timing. At the end of the month I need $750.00, next week I need well over $300.00. This week I am only made $150.00. Next week, I am scheduled with less hours and will make less than that. Praise the Lord for His provision!
By the way, some of this gift is from my Brother whom is not a Christian, but I believe will be one day. He said that so many times I gave him thought gifts, and told me how much he had appreciated all those times. Now, he was able to do things for me. I write this with tears in my eyes. The Lord has done so many tremendous things with my family. The Lord gave me a dream early 2002 that said I would be bringing my family to the Lord. After that, my Mom and Stepfather both became born again. My Father, although he has not officially become born again, calls Jesus his Lord. I taught him how to pray, and he speaks with blessings toward me, always acknowledging God. My brother asks questions, but has not become born again.
In this dream the Lord gave me in 2002, there had been a great snowstorm. There was ice and lots of snow. My job was to delegate what it is each member of my family had to do in order to save the house. My brother decided to borrow the neighbour's snowblower. It was the middle of the night and he had taken it without permission. We all worked through the night. In the morning, my Brother returned the snowblower to the neighbour and apologized for having taken it without permission. He also offered to replace the gas he had used. The neighbour said, 'Don't worry about it son.' He placed his hand on my brothers's back and then said, 'Let's go catch some fish.'
I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I was when I woke up from my dream. Since then, I have seen radical transformations in my family. Just the other day, after my Dad realized I broke up with my boyfriend, he offered words of comfort. He said, "Don't worry Karen God is with you always." Wow! I sense the power of the Holy Spirit, even now as I write this post. The Lord is doing a beautiful work and I want to glorify His holy name! Thank you Lord!!!
See how the Lord works? I came in to write one thing and it turned into a wonderful testimony! However, I still have it upon my heart to write a couple of paragraphs from the book I just finished reading, which ties into the things you encounter as you pursue the call of God. This book is called, "Churches that Make a Difference - Reaching your Community with Good News and Good Works" by Ronald J. Sider, Philip N. Olson and Heidi Rolland Unruh. I will quote from pages 309-310:
It is no coincidence that many of the great moments in salvation history start out with a trek through the wilderness. Abraham, Moses and the Israelites, and Jesus all found themselves wandering through the desert after responding to God's calling. As your congregation answers God's invitation to join in holistic mission, you can expect to pass through the wilderness. You will most likely encounter the test of inadequate finances, personnel, and space. You will endure temptations to turn aside, turn away, slow down, speed up, and sell out. You will struggle to develop ministry leaders who share the holistic vision, are passionate servants of the Lord, and can work together as a team. As Nehemiah faced the taunts of Sanballat and Tobiah as he worked to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem (Neh.4:1-3), you will experience opposition to the ministry, from outside as well as inside the congregation.
If your congregation (and particularly its leadership) is committed to the Lord, to one another, and to love of neighbour, these trials will not derail God's plan for your church. It is in the desert that the Holy Spirit teaches us key truths, tests our character and purpose, and strengthens us for ministry. God's strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). Through costs, change, and conflict, God pours out onto the church his boundless, all-sufficient love, power and grace - which we then proclaim in our evangelism and demonstrate in our works of compassion and justice. A congregation that ventures into holistic ministry can thus share Paul's confidence "that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ" (Phil. 1:6).
This book was written to help churches pursue, develop and implement an holistic vision and ministry. There are many aspects of this book that would equally assist you in your pursuit of God. It also opens up your eyes in different areas, stretches you cerebrally to understand the sociological problems we face and how the church is intertwined.
On a final note, I am blessed and thankful for having the opportunity to work on this assignment. If not, I would not have read this book. I am thankful for the encouragement I received. As I walk through my wilderness with the Lord, I will remember some of these words. Now, over the next couple of days, I will trust God as I write my critical book review. I will trust that He will grant me clarity, patience, joy and peace.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
What a Disappointment!
My rant for the day:
I just found out I cannot have the summer intern position I applied for. Instead of homework, I worked on my resume and cover letter as I need the work and the experience. Reason why I could not get the position? I AM TOO OLD! Yikes! I am only 32 years old, but the cut off for the program is 30. The program is government funded. I mentioned to the woman that it was not fair as I was attending school the same as those that are younger.
On a good note, she commended me on the presentation and work on my resume. She told me she would keep it and keep her eyes and ears open to see if anything becomes available in the church. That is good to know! On another good note, when I met her last weekend she must have thought I was younger than 30...tee hee!
Well, I will leave all this in the Lord's hands. Yes, I am disappointed. However, I know God is in control. I am hoping perhaps that He has something in store. He knows I need the work and experience at this time in my life.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
In Our Midst
I woke up this morning with the words from a song, now I cannot even remember the song, but the words consist of the phrase, 'The Lord is a strong tower'. Generally when the Holy Spirit speaks to me in those moments upon awakening and it is with a song, it is always something significant.
This was fitting for the morning. Two of my girlfirends were in from out of town and I came out to where they were camped out in my livingroom, and sang the lyrics. The night before we had decided we would spend the morning in prayer. That we did. We three were tremendously blessed as the Holy Spirit poured out his love, words of prophecy, healing and wisdom.
We wrestled with the issues of fear, doubt, trust, etcetera. This posed questions as to where God fit into these issues. Is God in control or are we? Do we believe all His word tells us or not? Do we walk on God's path or our own? These are difficult questions, particularly if God is not front and centre in all areas of your life.
There are many verses in the bible on dealing with some of these issues; I decided to include 3 for illustration:
1Jo 4:18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has torment. He who fears has not been perfected in love.
Mar 11:23 For truly I say to you that whoever shall say to this mountain, Be moved and be cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he said shall occur, he shall have whatever he said.
Psa 37:5 Give yourself to the LORD; trust in him, and he will help you;
When we put the Lord ahead of any problem and hand Him complete control of every and any situation, there truly is no room for the angst associated with these issues and questions. God is our strength, our tower in the midst of any situation or place.
As I looked up the definition of a tower to receive clarification, it helped to place a greater understanding on the lyrics of that song. Here are some of the meanings:
He is our strong tower. Jeremiah knew this:
Jer 16:19a 'GOD, my strength, my stronghold, my safe retreat when trouble descends...'
No matter what may be around, in the greatest of storms or the clearest of skies, as we seek for all the answers, run for cover or do not know where to turn...
In our midst there is God.
This was fitting for the morning. Two of my girlfirends were in from out of town and I came out to where they were camped out in my livingroom, and sang the lyrics. The night before we had decided we would spend the morning in prayer. That we did. We three were tremendously blessed as the Holy Spirit poured out his love, words of prophecy, healing and wisdom.
We wrestled with the issues of fear, doubt, trust, etcetera. This posed questions as to where God fit into these issues. Is God in control or are we? Do we believe all His word tells us or not? Do we walk on God's path or our own? These are difficult questions, particularly if God is not front and centre in all areas of your life.
There are many verses in the bible on dealing with some of these issues; I decided to include 3 for illustration:
1Jo 4:18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has torment. He who fears has not been perfected in love.
Mar 11:23 For truly I say to you that whoever shall say to this mountain, Be moved and be cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he said shall occur, he shall have whatever he said.
Psa 37:5 Give yourself to the LORD; trust in him, and he will help you;
When we put the Lord ahead of any problem and hand Him complete control of every and any situation, there truly is no room for the angst associated with these issues and questions. God is our strength, our tower in the midst of any situation or place.
As I looked up the definition of a tower to receive clarification, it helped to place a greater understanding on the lyrics of that song. Here are some of the meanings:
- a building or structure higher than it is wide, either isolated or forming part of a building;
- such a structure used as or intended for a stronghold, fortress, prison, etc.;
- a tall, movable structure used in ancient and medieval warfare in storming a fortified place;
- to rise or extend upward, as a tower; reach or stand high;
- to rise above or surpass others;
He is our strong tower. Jeremiah knew this:
Jer 16:19a 'GOD, my strength, my stronghold, my safe retreat when trouble descends...'
No matter what may be around, in the greatest of storms or the clearest of skies, as we seek for all the answers, run for cover or do not know where to turn...
In our midst there is God.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Found a Church Family
I am so glad to report that I found a church I will call home. It is only my second visit there, but it feels like a good fit. I will keep attending and praying and see what God has in store for me. It has been described as inward and outward, with focus on small groups and outreach as well. They are charismatic/mixed. There is a blend amongst the congregation. Very stable, biblically solid. They embrace five fold ministry and believe in utilization of all the gifts.
Two weeks in a row I attended intercessory prayer before the service starts and I am blessed by it. These people are so filled with the Holy Spirit and are lovely to be around. This church has two young adults groups, separated into 2 categories. One is teens to mid-20's. The other is mid-20's to mid-30's approximately. I am so happy for the latter group! Yeah! I find there often are not groups for those in their 30's, or later 20's.
Today I was invited for an incredible lunch. I went with the older young adults group to get to know them better. I met them all today for the first time and they were great! A couple in the church blessed us all. I felt like I was dining in a restaurant. When you are on your own and only have your cat for company at dinner time, it is tremendous fun!
So far, all the people I have met at this church are exhibiting the fruit of the spirit and love in their hearts. I am so impressed! I have met some very strong women in the Lord, who love God passionately! Thank you Lord for this blessing! Also, I have an opportunity to apply for a summer intern position. It will stretch me, but I am sure I would learn a great deal from it.
Two weeks in a row I attended intercessory prayer before the service starts and I am blessed by it. These people are so filled with the Holy Spirit and are lovely to be around. This church has two young adults groups, separated into 2 categories. One is teens to mid-20's. The other is mid-20's to mid-30's approximately. I am so happy for the latter group! Yeah! I find there often are not groups for those in their 30's, or later 20's.
Today I was invited for an incredible lunch. I went with the older young adults group to get to know them better. I met them all today for the first time and they were great! A couple in the church blessed us all. I felt like I was dining in a restaurant. When you are on your own and only have your cat for company at dinner time, it is tremendous fun!
So far, all the people I have met at this church are exhibiting the fruit of the spirit and love in their hearts. I am so impressed! I have met some very strong women in the Lord, who love God passionately! Thank you Lord for this blessing! Also, I have an opportunity to apply for a summer intern position. It will stretch me, but I am sure I would learn a great deal from it.
Saturday, April 30, 2005
New Beginnings
Today will be a personal post, coming from my heart. My relationship ended this morning with my boyfriend. It was not a hard time to sit down and have the inevitable discussion of our relationship ending. It is actually quite a relief. Not to say that I am not feeling emotional, I just need to be strong and heal. I want the Father's loving arms to consume me.
I want to thank you Lord for preparing my heart and spirit for today. It has not been an easy time and has been even more difficult to finely attune your voice throughout the struggles. I pray Lord that you would heal my mind, body, soul and spirit. Lord teach me to walk wholly in your love and forgiveness.
Lord I know you have set me aside for many things, not just to pursue a calling on my life. I know that you are preparing me for a husband and family. Lord prepare me for all aspects of what you have planned for me in the future. Please provide a man that will understand how you are working in my life and will support my decision to pursue full time ministry. Lord you know my needs, wants and desires greater than I know myself. You formed and molded me in the womb. You are my Creator.
I love you Lord. I embrace this new beginning.
I want to thank you Lord for preparing my heart and spirit for today. It has not been an easy time and has been even more difficult to finely attune your voice throughout the struggles. I pray Lord that you would heal my mind, body, soul and spirit. Lord teach me to walk wholly in your love and forgiveness.
Lord I know you have set me aside for many things, not just to pursue a calling on my life. I know that you are preparing me for a husband and family. Lord prepare me for all aspects of what you have planned for me in the future. Please provide a man that will understand how you are working in my life and will support my decision to pursue full time ministry. Lord you know my needs, wants and desires greater than I know myself. You formed and molded me in the womb. You are my Creator.
I love you Lord. I embrace this new beginning.
Friday, April 29, 2005
Time of Restoration
I believe the Lord has been trying to speak to me on a particular matter for quite some time. As we struggle between spirit and flesh, it is sometimes difficult to hear the still small voice of the Holy Spirit.
As I have pursued the Lord in prayer, I have received a few words. When I pursued the Lord further, wrestling with Him for understanding, I received greater revelation.
I believe in grace. I also believe that a Father disciplines His children. Like the Israelites that wandered so many years, God poured out His grace and yet removed His blessing from some that wandered so that they may not ever see the promised land.
As the Lord led me to Jeremiah 32 this evening, I was reminded of what the Lord has placed in my spirit over the last few weeks. What gave me hope was the last verse in which the Lord declares He will restore all that is lost.
This is not meant to be taken out of context at all. I need a restoration of my spirit, my passion, my innermost desires. Stepping out in faith to pursue my call has been tough, but I have no regrets. The Lord is teaching me, transforming me and stretching me.
Anyone who has ever seen the movie Braveheart can relate that stretching hurts! This is the kind of spiritual stretching I am referring to. When the Lord is done, I will not fit the same anymore.
Hallelujah! Time to throw out my old wineskin! Lord I want a new wineskin and fresh wine to be poured in. Lord I want to flow to overflowing, to be rich in your fragrant bouquet, to be the most beautiful colour that picks up the natural hues of your love.
I pray for your restoration Lord.
Psalm 51:12
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
As I have pursued the Lord in prayer, I have received a few words. When I pursued the Lord further, wrestling with Him for understanding, I received greater revelation.
I believe in grace. I also believe that a Father disciplines His children. Like the Israelites that wandered so many years, God poured out His grace and yet removed His blessing from some that wandered so that they may not ever see the promised land.
As the Lord led me to Jeremiah 32 this evening, I was reminded of what the Lord has placed in my spirit over the last few weeks. What gave me hope was the last verse in which the Lord declares He will restore all that is lost.
This is not meant to be taken out of context at all. I need a restoration of my spirit, my passion, my innermost desires. Stepping out in faith to pursue my call has been tough, but I have no regrets. The Lord is teaching me, transforming me and stretching me.
Anyone who has ever seen the movie Braveheart can relate that stretching hurts! This is the kind of spiritual stretching I am referring to. When the Lord is done, I will not fit the same anymore.
Hallelujah! Time to throw out my old wineskin! Lord I want a new wineskin and fresh wine to be poured in. Lord I want to flow to overflowing, to be rich in your fragrant bouquet, to be the most beautiful colour that picks up the natural hues of your love.
I pray for your restoration Lord.
Psalm 51:12
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Back from Vancouver
Well, it is nice to be back home. I arrived Saturday evening at 7:30pm after being in a crowded van all day and getting up at 4 am. I was so blessed. My landlord and his fiance invited me to have dinner with them and to watch a movie afterward. It was relaxing. We all spent time with my darling cat. They took care of her while I was away. Thank you Lord and bless them for their kindness.
To summarize some of the events, I will return to Thursday. As I mentioned in another post, we all helped out with a food bank for single Mom's. It was incredible to see how much work, organization and planning goes into such a service. We had to unload two truckloads of boxes, then open the boxes, divide/separate goods into different piles and count them. Then we placed buckets and boxes on the floor and distributed items from fresh food, canned goods, to personal hygiene. One day when I have pictures developed, I will post some of them. After that we had class. Then we sat in on a bible study for Young Adults that was happening in the room where we sleep, eat and study. Finally, the moment arrived for us to go downtown at night time.
We drove down to the area of East Hastings and Main. On route, we witnessed a fist fight, the usual number of people doing drugs and some prostitutes. The streets were very quiet which surprised us, even 'Pigeon Park' was empty. Sorry I called the place 'Bird Park' in another post. The guy that took us down there mentioned it was very unusual to be so quiet plus the fact that one whole block was filled with police cars, about 14 of them. Our assumption is that something serious must have happened earlier in the evening. Unfortunately, we did not get out and walk. Some of the students were relieved that decision was made. I was a little disappointed as I wanted to see everything, interact and learn. I wanted to see just how horrible the conditions are and how the action increases in the late hours of the evening. However, I do not need to see more for the compassion in my heart to increase. I wanted to gain a greater understanding of the sub-culture. We took a drive then into the wealthy areas to see where the higher end prostitutes are. We learned a little about the higher and lower end hookers.
To complete the evening, we drove down an area called, 'Kiddy Stroll'. I apologize if that is offensive to some readers, but let's face it folks...this is reality. Kiddy stroll is named because it is the area of the city that someone can hire a child prostitute. I am not sure of the youngest age but it would not surprise me how young some may be. My guess is that between the ages of 8 and 15. It is legal to have sex at the age of 16 in BC, perhaps 14. I would have to check on that. In think we were told 14. The people or parents that are pimping do their business behind closed doors in this area. When the child is needed, they usher them out to the vehicle to the customer. There are some brothels in the area that cater to this, plus any age of prostitution. This area touched me to the inner core. Alongthis last part ofour drive, we did see a young girl standingout at the side of the road. She seemed so pretty, fearful and fragile. We watched her walk, which appeared to all of us that she did so with great difficulty. I can only assume why, but do not want my imagination to think about it. We were informed that Vancouver is the city that caters to your every desire, in Satan's dominion that is.
On Friday we were up bright and early to go and spend the day at Union Gospel Mission again. Some of us were on kitchen duty and some maintenance. I was chosen for the kitchen. I made 128 sandwiches, mixed/prepared drinks, cut desserts and helped out in other areas. It takes a great deal of time, effort and preparation to feed 100's of people a day. We had lunch then prepared to do chapel service. The men, maybe 1-2 women really appreciated the service. They clapped after the one student preached, not because they had to but because they wanted to.
After that we went downtown for dinner. Our teacher took us all out for a great steak dinner. We had enough money left over to treat ourselves. We had managed to save on gas and food throughout the week. Amazing and a blessing, as gas prices were over a dollar a litre there. After dinner I had a great talk with a panhandler. I did not have money for him, but what I did have was a blessing. I spoke with him and treated him as a real person. It put a wonderful smile on his face. Afterward we walked down Grenville and Robson area just for fun. The youth group would be busy until at least 11 pm, so our room would not be available for sleep until after that time.
The other thing perhaps I did not mention was that on Wednesday I saw a woman who was high on drugs, probably heroin or crack. She was in her own world, dancing in a contorted state. She had on only one sock. I saw her inch toward traffic and prayed 'Lord, please don't let her be hit!' We were all standing outside the gospel mission, watching. She turned around and placed her feet inward toward oncoming traffic. I gasped, my body leapt forward and my teacher said something to the effect of..."Karen, don't even think about it!" I was in shock and horrified to see this stoned woman dance blindly in front of traffic. I was almost sick, and so glad she made it across the road. I thanked the Lord! My teacher explained it was not safe for us to help people in this area, even if in broad daylight. We would be putingour lives at risk. Even if we saw her get hit by a car, the best thing we could do for her would be to call 911. Suffice to say, I shed some tears later. I felt frustrated, confused, disgusted...even a little angry at the situation. Such a feeling of helplessness.
My question then was, what would Jesus do? I cannot imagine our Saviour would watch that woman in those circumstances. Would Jesus not help her? What if she had been hit? Would he not go over to her? Lay his hands upon her and heal her? Would he not make sure she was out of harm's way? My head is spinning with thoughts! The response I received was that Jesus did not help every person. He did not heal everybody. I was told it was not my responsibilty to make sure everyone is OK. My intentions are good and my instincts not only honorable, but healthy. Moreover, the discussion led into the scriptures that indicate Jesus healed those that wanted to be well. Hmmmm...scratch my head. Then Grace comes to mind. UNDESERVED FAVOUR...this is the meaning of grace.
I have so many things I want to write about, but this last point is the one burning on my mind. I often try to live my life as biblically as I can. After briefing you on this last scenario, I am curious to know others thoughts. What would you have done? If you are a Christian or Non-Christian I would be interested in your response. Furthermore, how do you think Jesus would have handled the situation?
To summarize some of the events, I will return to Thursday. As I mentioned in another post, we all helped out with a food bank for single Mom's. It was incredible to see how much work, organization and planning goes into such a service. We had to unload two truckloads of boxes, then open the boxes, divide/separate goods into different piles and count them. Then we placed buckets and boxes on the floor and distributed items from fresh food, canned goods, to personal hygiene. One day when I have pictures developed, I will post some of them. After that we had class. Then we sat in on a bible study for Young Adults that was happening in the room where we sleep, eat and study. Finally, the moment arrived for us to go downtown at night time.
We drove down to the area of East Hastings and Main. On route, we witnessed a fist fight, the usual number of people doing drugs and some prostitutes. The streets were very quiet which surprised us, even 'Pigeon Park' was empty. Sorry I called the place 'Bird Park' in another post. The guy that took us down there mentioned it was very unusual to be so quiet plus the fact that one whole block was filled with police cars, about 14 of them. Our assumption is that something serious must have happened earlier in the evening. Unfortunately, we did not get out and walk. Some of the students were relieved that decision was made. I was a little disappointed as I wanted to see everything, interact and learn. I wanted to see just how horrible the conditions are and how the action increases in the late hours of the evening. However, I do not need to see more for the compassion in my heart to increase. I wanted to gain a greater understanding of the sub-culture. We took a drive then into the wealthy areas to see where the higher end prostitutes are. We learned a little about the higher and lower end hookers.
To complete the evening, we drove down an area called, 'Kiddy Stroll'. I apologize if that is offensive to some readers, but let's face it folks...this is reality. Kiddy stroll is named because it is the area of the city that someone can hire a child prostitute. I am not sure of the youngest age but it would not surprise me how young some may be. My guess is that between the ages of 8 and 15. It is legal to have sex at the age of 16 in BC, perhaps 14. I would have to check on that. In think we were told 14. The people or parents that are pimping do their business behind closed doors in this area. When the child is needed, they usher them out to the vehicle to the customer. There are some brothels in the area that cater to this, plus any age of prostitution. This area touched me to the inner core. Alongthis last part ofour drive, we did see a young girl standingout at the side of the road. She seemed so pretty, fearful and fragile. We watched her walk, which appeared to all of us that she did so with great difficulty. I can only assume why, but do not want my imagination to think about it. We were informed that Vancouver is the city that caters to your every desire, in Satan's dominion that is.
On Friday we were up bright and early to go and spend the day at Union Gospel Mission again. Some of us were on kitchen duty and some maintenance. I was chosen for the kitchen. I made 128 sandwiches, mixed/prepared drinks, cut desserts and helped out in other areas. It takes a great deal of time, effort and preparation to feed 100's of people a day. We had lunch then prepared to do chapel service. The men, maybe 1-2 women really appreciated the service. They clapped after the one student preached, not because they had to but because they wanted to.
After that we went downtown for dinner. Our teacher took us all out for a great steak dinner. We had enough money left over to treat ourselves. We had managed to save on gas and food throughout the week. Amazing and a blessing, as gas prices were over a dollar a litre there. After dinner I had a great talk with a panhandler. I did not have money for him, but what I did have was a blessing. I spoke with him and treated him as a real person. It put a wonderful smile on his face. Afterward we walked down Grenville and Robson area just for fun. The youth group would be busy until at least 11 pm, so our room would not be available for sleep until after that time.
The other thing perhaps I did not mention was that on Wednesday I saw a woman who was high on drugs, probably heroin or crack. She was in her own world, dancing in a contorted state. She had on only one sock. I saw her inch toward traffic and prayed 'Lord, please don't let her be hit!' We were all standing outside the gospel mission, watching. She turned around and placed her feet inward toward oncoming traffic. I gasped, my body leapt forward and my teacher said something to the effect of..."Karen, don't even think about it!" I was in shock and horrified to see this stoned woman dance blindly in front of traffic. I was almost sick, and so glad she made it across the road. I thanked the Lord! My teacher explained it was not safe for us to help people in this area, even if in broad daylight. We would be putingour lives at risk. Even if we saw her get hit by a car, the best thing we could do for her would be to call 911. Suffice to say, I shed some tears later. I felt frustrated, confused, disgusted...even a little angry at the situation. Such a feeling of helplessness.
My question then was, what would Jesus do? I cannot imagine our Saviour would watch that woman in those circumstances. Would Jesus not help her? What if she had been hit? Would he not go over to her? Lay his hands upon her and heal her? Would he not make sure she was out of harm's way? My head is spinning with thoughts! The response I received was that Jesus did not help every person. He did not heal everybody. I was told it was not my responsibilty to make sure everyone is OK. My intentions are good and my instincts not only honorable, but healthy. Moreover, the discussion led into the scriptures that indicate Jesus healed those that wanted to be well. Hmmmm...scratch my head. Then Grace comes to mind. UNDESERVED FAVOUR...this is the meaning of grace.
I have so many things I want to write about, but this last point is the one burning on my mind. I often try to live my life as biblically as I can. After briefing you on this last scenario, I am curious to know others thoughts. What would you have done? If you are a Christian or Non-Christian I would be interested in your response. Furthermore, how do you think Jesus would have handled the situation?
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Misplaced my Pic
I somehow misplaced my picture that I posted on April 24th. Then to correct, I deleted the pictures. Now, I am placing the same picture in this post. I have downloaded Picasa and Hello but have not figured out how to use them properly. My greatest frustration is that I want my picture on the introductory page, and in my profile. However, I do not know how to do it and have tried several times, thereby making the mistake of losing the picture I posted because I posted it three times in a row. Yikes! If anyone has any helpful suggestions, please let me know. Your help would be greatly appreciated.
I will write my final comments on Vancouver shortly. I did so last night only to lose everything I wrote as AOL shut down. My schoolwork is top priority, however this will help me to keep track of my activities seeing as I have to write a report on my stay in Vancouver.
LOL...I just had to delete this picture I had under this heading because it was blurry. Hopefully the pic under April 26th will turn out!
I will write my final comments on Vancouver shortly. I did so last night only to lose everything I wrote as AOL shut down. My schoolwork is top priority, however this will help me to keep track of my activities seeing as I have to write a report on my stay in Vancouver.
LOL...I just had to delete this picture I had under this heading because it was blurry. Hopefully the pic under April 26th will turn out!
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Thursday in Vancouver
Hi Everybody! Well, our time here is almost over. It has been a jam-packed couple of days. Yesterday we went to Union Gospel Mission downtown. We were responsible for giving chapel three times as a group yesterday. People's lives were touched. One person in the afternoon came up for a prayer for healing. He did not even stay for supper which is incredible! He left after receiving prayer. Most are just there for the meal, some really enjoy the services and look forward to them. I had an awesome conversation with one man in particular, and some others too. We helped out doing other things. At the end of the night, I injured myself again. I dropped one of the big plastic beds on my foot/toes and is still sore. Late afterward we came back and had a class. Afterward we received some upsetting news as a class and many of us cried. It was an emotional time. Later, we giggled and laughed late into the night, which helped diffuse the heavy emotion we all felt inside.
In the morning, we woke up to someone's phone. In response to the confusion, one girl fell into me and landed hard into my back. She scraped her elbow pretty hard and was bleeding a bit. She felt bad and we were both pretty sore. Then about an hour later another girl partially stepped on my head. Yikes! Suffice to say, I woke up in a bad mood. I was feeling sorry for myself for awhile. Now, I just choose to have joy and worship God through it all. Today we helped out with a food bank for single Moms. Today and yesterday we made lunches for school kids. Tonight we are going downtown late at night to see the street activity pronounced.
Gotta GO!!! So much i want to write. God Bless. Bye for now.
In the morning, we woke up to someone's phone. In response to the confusion, one girl fell into me and landed hard into my back. She scraped her elbow pretty hard and was bleeding a bit. She felt bad and we were both pretty sore. Then about an hour later another girl partially stepped on my head. Yikes! Suffice to say, I woke up in a bad mood. I was feeling sorry for myself for awhile. Now, I just choose to have joy and worship God through it all. Today we helped out with a food bank for single Moms. Today and yesterday we made lunches for school kids. Tonight we are going downtown late at night to see the street activity pronounced.
Gotta GO!!! So much i want to write. God Bless. Bye for now.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Tuesday in Vancouver
Well to add on to what we have done since my last writing...
On Monday we went down to the area of East Hastings Street and Main. Here we split into small groups and walked the streets to get a feel for the environment and people. This really tied into our morning lessons on why some people become homeless, society/sociology, and gentrification. It was daytime when we went down but there was still a great deal of activity. It was a common sight to see people doing crack, prostitutes and drug deals. Many sold found or stolen items on the street, selling tickets for upcoming events plus other activities. Our group was approached to buy drugs, showing us the contents openly. The police are busy and not often dealing with the drug problems. Someone kicked a window out of a buiding and there was an issue with a stolen bike from Carnegie Hall (library). We saw the place called, 'Bird Park'. This is an area where people sleep, consistently do drugs, deals, etc. It is an area that is often photographed and used in documentaries to capture the feel of the environment and culture.
After that we went for a drive in some richer areas and into Stanley Park, to get a feel for the contrast in environments within a local region. We got a look at the ocean and mountains from a different perspective. Too bad I did not have my camera. However, it was left behind as we did not want our van broken into.
Class was great this morning and presented itself with some healthy debates on culture and ethnicity. This afternoon we are in charge of cooking beef stew for 100 meals so they can be frozen for the food bank they have here for the locals. It was chaos with all of us in the kitchen. I sliced my finger open moving the lid for the professional cooker we are making the stew in. Ouch!!! The same hand that I injured on Saturday morning.
So, doing homework, blogging, recovering from crying due to the onions in the kitchen and waiting to finish stew. We have been locked out of the kitchen and are awaiting arrival of a key. Hoping the stew does not burn! The next few days will be very busy. Spaghetti duty, making bagged lunches for kids and handing them out. Then ministry downtown, food bank here on Thursday, plus other opportunities. The youth are here late Friday evening, then we will be up 5-7 am to drive back. Then home to do more homework.
Speaking of homework, back to the books!!!
On Monday we went down to the area of East Hastings Street and Main. Here we split into small groups and walked the streets to get a feel for the environment and people. This really tied into our morning lessons on why some people become homeless, society/sociology, and gentrification. It was daytime when we went down but there was still a great deal of activity. It was a common sight to see people doing crack, prostitutes and drug deals. Many sold found or stolen items on the street, selling tickets for upcoming events plus other activities. Our group was approached to buy drugs, showing us the contents openly. The police are busy and not often dealing with the drug problems. Someone kicked a window out of a buiding and there was an issue with a stolen bike from Carnegie Hall (library). We saw the place called, 'Bird Park'. This is an area where people sleep, consistently do drugs, deals, etc. It is an area that is often photographed and used in documentaries to capture the feel of the environment and culture.
After that we went for a drive in some richer areas and into Stanley Park, to get a feel for the contrast in environments within a local region. We got a look at the ocean and mountains from a different perspective. Too bad I did not have my camera. However, it was left behind as we did not want our van broken into.
Class was great this morning and presented itself with some healthy debates on culture and ethnicity. This afternoon we are in charge of cooking beef stew for 100 meals so they can be frozen for the food bank they have here for the locals. It was chaos with all of us in the kitchen. I sliced my finger open moving the lid for the professional cooker we are making the stew in. Ouch!!! The same hand that I injured on Saturday morning.
So, doing homework, blogging, recovering from crying due to the onions in the kitchen and waiting to finish stew. We have been locked out of the kitchen and are awaiting arrival of a key. Hoping the stew does not burn! The next few days will be very busy. Spaghetti duty, making bagged lunches for kids and handing them out. Then ministry downtown, food bank here on Thursday, plus other opportunities. The youth are here late Friday evening, then we will be up 5-7 am to drive back. Then home to do more homework.
Speaking of homework, back to the books!!!
Monday, April 18, 2005
Here in Vancouver
Hi there everyone. It has been an interesting trip thus far. 10 of us total in a small van and cramped spaces. We arrived in Langley, BC and were invited to supper at one of our professor's houses. We are staying in a converted tire factory that is being used for ministry purposes. We are all camping out in one large room in sleeping bags, air mattresses on floor or some couches.
On Saturday we helped out with a kids ministry. We picked up kids in the area and had lessons, teaching, fed food, etcetera. These children were not Christian, perhaps some have become Christian since the ministry started. It was a learning experience as we had to discipline the kids on the bus, of which some were rebellious by nature. While in this role I slammed my fingers in the window because someone would not shut it. Ouch! That hurt! Later on we had ministry with the older girls. It was great to see kids being touched in a gentle and positive manner.
Sunday after church, we decided to take a trip to the waterfront here in Vancouver. It was soooo beautiful. It was the first time I have seen the Pacific Ocean and got a picture of me standing in it. Yeah!!! We took a drive down East Hastings and Main area and saw different ministries and sights. We also went for a walk down Robson Street. Differences in culture shock, yet so close together.
Today we are awaiting our next adventure. We attend classes every morning while here and then the plan is to do ministry in the afternoon. In between we sneak in naps and homework.
I have definitely been challenged and am growing personally since I have come here. I am learning to adapt under difficult circumstances. Being in an environment with communal living has its challenges. I am so thankful to the Lord to be challenged in this manner as it is a preparation for things to come. Thank you Lord!
In addition to your prayers, please pray that the Lord will continue to change me and help me to grow in Him. Pray for the compassion and love of Christ to well up in my heart to overflowing as we go through these next few days of ministry.
God Bless everyone of you.
On Saturday we helped out with a kids ministry. We picked up kids in the area and had lessons, teaching, fed food, etcetera. These children were not Christian, perhaps some have become Christian since the ministry started. It was a learning experience as we had to discipline the kids on the bus, of which some were rebellious by nature. While in this role I slammed my fingers in the window because someone would not shut it. Ouch! That hurt! Later on we had ministry with the older girls. It was great to see kids being touched in a gentle and positive manner.
Sunday after church, we decided to take a trip to the waterfront here in Vancouver. It was soooo beautiful. It was the first time I have seen the Pacific Ocean and got a picture of me standing in it. Yeah!!! We took a drive down East Hastings and Main area and saw different ministries and sights. We also went for a walk down Robson Street. Differences in culture shock, yet so close together.
Today we are awaiting our next adventure. We attend classes every morning while here and then the plan is to do ministry in the afternoon. In between we sneak in naps and homework.
I have definitely been challenged and am growing personally since I have come here. I am learning to adapt under difficult circumstances. Being in an environment with communal living has its challenges. I am so thankful to the Lord to be challenged in this manner as it is a preparation for things to come. Thank you Lord!
In addition to your prayers, please pray that the Lord will continue to change me and help me to grow in Him. Pray for the compassion and love of Christ to well up in my heart to overflowing as we go through these next few days of ministry.
God Bless everyone of you.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
Going Away
I will be away from the site for awhile as I am going to do inner city missions with my school. I will try to provide updates while I am gone. Please pray for safe and pleasant travelling mercies and that we would all do great things for God. Pray for saved souls!!!!
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