Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Getting to the Heart of the Matter
The Heart of the Matter is this: God love us, He really loves us, He only has good things for us, He brings understanding, He loves us!!!
This last week, I have opened myself up to going back in my past to see some things that still need healing to find true full breakthrough in life. It can be scary, to go back, to look at things we are not so proud of and want to forget.
The good thing about this is that we can find the love of the Father with each look. Horrendous things may have happened to us, or maybe not, but the Father longs to show you His love, His hand, how he worked together for your good!!!
The tendency for most folks in this world is to blame God, when trials and tribulations come, things we can't understand, don't want to understand, we blame God.
The truth is this, God wants good for His children, He loves all, sent His Son to die for all, He works everything for our good because He loves us!!
Putting that into perspective, I had this thought. You know how when tragedy strikes, difficult circumstance, cancer, layoffs, or just rotten things happen? Our tendency often times is to take it out on those we love and who love us. Our tendency is to push them away. Why do we do that? I have asked myself this same question. Part of me believes it is because we know they will love us in spite of our momentary insanity, part of it, I believe is that we are daring them to show us how much they love us.
So, in relation to blaming God for disaster, difficulty, sickness and tragedy, are we blaming God, venting to Him? because we are daring Him to show up and show how much He loves us?
He is always there, He is always available, He is always loving you, loving me, He is eager to show us more of His love. He is not offended by your blame, by my blame. He wants us to desire Him. If it's a dare, he will show up!! He will love you, heck he already does love you!!
Just a thought, as i sit here talking with him about life, and asking for more understanding.
So take some time to talk with Him, He is always available, He will answer, He will reply with LOVE, HOPE, PEACE, JOY!!!!!! Give him the chance!!
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Moving on Up!!
So today I find myself living in Redding, California!! What a journey the last year has been. It has been over 8 months since my return from Thailand and Cambodia. And I had no clue not even a year later, I would move from all I knew in Arkansas to a place called Redding, California. Population half of Little Rock and same heat less humidity, a place with homeless on every corner, Me: living in an apartment that I tell folks it's in the alley between Carl Jr's and the 7/11, but alas here I am.
I moved here a little over 2 months ago in search for MORE of God, my desire to understand how to host the Presence of Holy Spirit. My move brought me to Redding to be a part of Bethel Church. Bethel's main pastor is Bill Johnson. I was transformed by Holy Spirit through Bill's teachings, understanding more the simplicity of loving God, seeking His Presence. My desire to search out the hidden things of Christ has been heightened as I am placed in front of folks everyday asking about God's love through the vast questions of why hell? will dead be raised? why did Ananias and Sapphira have to die? Many other questions have surfaced from others that I am hesitant to admit have never crossed my mind. But it is in these questions, that I find myself in His Presence knowing that is the place where the answers lie. Sure, I could look at commentary after commentary, yet in His Presence is fullness of Joy, in His Presence is wisdom and revelation. In His Presence is TRUTH! So while people may question my beliefs and understandings of Christ and dispute these many things, I am content to trust His Voice. The things I may not understand, I trust His heart! Knowing HE loves all wishing none to perish! This is where I find myself on the beautiful August day in Redding.
I just began reading "Visions Beyond the Veil" by HA Baker. I found truth so quickly and am not even on the 2nd chapter. It's the truth that resonates through my soul, flesh, and spirit. A truth that made me want to jump for joy, yet I must admit I contained myself a bit as I sit in Starbucks and am not fond of the staring, well not as much as I used to be haha!
The truth was this: In speaking of the ministry of the Bakers who began a home for boys with many issues this is what was said of the children who were speaking revelations from above, "They sought Christ! We did not see anyone seeking visions or any of the manifestations that were received day by day, as they all single-heartedly prayed and praised the Lord Jesus. He alone was sought and magnified throughout..." pg 12
That is where I want to live! I want to seek Christ and Him alone. I find myself periodically getting wrapped up in why can't I see this or that healing, or have this vision. Yet when I am still and sure, I know His Presence is greater than any manifestation and sign. Yet in Him alone is where we find Christ in His fullness which comes with all of the signs and wonders.
So this is where we begin the next chapter in Redding, California. I will be talking more about what has been going on here and the favor I have found in seeking God more, the opportunities I have been given. But for now this is where I am seeking Him in His fullness and finding unspeakable joy!!
Until next time...
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
THE NEW YEAR
So I rang in the new year a little disheartened and discontented. What I realize now is that Satan did not in any way desire for me to make it into this new year. For God had big plans, HUGE plans for me.
It started with an unexpected weekend out of town with some new friends. I had been given different information than what really took place. I left that weekend realizing feeling angry. How can we call ourselves Christians if we do not look any different than the world. The Lord just got me all fired up. I told everyone I came in contact with that we needed to be different, we needed to look different, otherwise what's the point. If Jesus can die on the cross for me, can I not at least live on this earth for Him?
I met with some of my closest friends and asked that they help in this endeavor, to be more aware of the people they are around and what they do and what they say in the midst of everyday life. We just never know. From there God just started showing out!!
At this point I had my second credit card paid and one to go! I attended a weekend missions conference. At this point I am sad to admit, I had become so awkward I didn't really want anything to do with missions anymore, but I knew I had to go!!! God definitely began working on my hardened heart and I was able to appreciate people who gave their lives to serve Christ and share His glory. I was moved, but to what I didn't know. Things God revealed to me at that conference didn't make sense until a few months later, but the one thing He did show me was that I was to remain soley in Him to Dance with Him for He is the lover of my soul and He desires to Romance me and I am His Beloved.
A few weeks after that I attended a friends pilot graduation in Columbus, MS. We were so proud to be a part of his celebration. He received lots and lots and lots of awards all the while being quite humble! This was the first time I had met his family. His mom and I hit it off when I told her I did physical therapy for a living. Through our conversation, God used her to do an amazing work, she encouraged me into what God had already called me to. She told me I was an encourager and and exhorter. She confirmed everything God had called me to that I had let go by the wayside through my difficult transition back to the states. I had a new lease on life after that weekend and once again God continued to show His beautiful face.
I began looking into going back to the Dominican Republic which God had shown me at that conference and which I easily dismissed. I stayed 9 days in the DR and was able to help with the PT clinic and also gave quite a few massages to the missionaries. I have a friend I met there 6 years ago, Melvin, who has cerebral palsy. My friend, Richard and I have put music to the songs he has written and helped arrange them. One night we had a concert and Melvin preached. It was an undescribabel experience. When I returned from the DR things were a little crazy!
It was 2 weeks later that I would find out I had an opportunity to go to Haiti for 6 days. Another thing that was suggested to me at the conference that I had carelessly dismissed. This trip is an exploratory trip for our church to see how we can partner with them in the future. This is going to be quite an amazing trip for sure. Nothing is really mapped out in stone and that is how we prefer it to be!! We are praying for the Holy Spirit to lead us every step of the way. To the places others may not go or desire to go. We are not praying for safety but for boldness in the midst of trials to step out of our comfort zones and ask God for supernatural healing in physical, spiritual, and emotional realm. So this just catches you up some on what's been going on. I leave on May 6 and return May 11. I hope to keep up the blogging a little more and am a little sad I haven't as much in last four months. At this point I have all my credit cards paid and have much more freedom to travel as God desires that for me!! God is amazing and continues to show off in my life. I don't deserve it but it is all for His glory and His NAME!!! Until next time...
It started with an unexpected weekend out of town with some new friends. I had been given different information than what really took place. I left that weekend realizing feeling angry. How can we call ourselves Christians if we do not look any different than the world. The Lord just got me all fired up. I told everyone I came in contact with that we needed to be different, we needed to look different, otherwise what's the point. If Jesus can die on the cross for me, can I not at least live on this earth for Him?
I met with some of my closest friends and asked that they help in this endeavor, to be more aware of the people they are around and what they do and what they say in the midst of everyday life. We just never know. From there God just started showing out!!
At this point I had my second credit card paid and one to go! I attended a weekend missions conference. At this point I am sad to admit, I had become so awkward I didn't really want anything to do with missions anymore, but I knew I had to go!!! God definitely began working on my hardened heart and I was able to appreciate people who gave their lives to serve Christ and share His glory. I was moved, but to what I didn't know. Things God revealed to me at that conference didn't make sense until a few months later, but the one thing He did show me was that I was to remain soley in Him to Dance with Him for He is the lover of my soul and He desires to Romance me and I am His Beloved.
A few weeks after that I attended a friends pilot graduation in Columbus, MS. We were so proud to be a part of his celebration. He received lots and lots and lots of awards all the while being quite humble! This was the first time I had met his family. His mom and I hit it off when I told her I did physical therapy for a living. Through our conversation, God used her to do an amazing work, she encouraged me into what God had already called me to. She told me I was an encourager and and exhorter. She confirmed everything God had called me to that I had let go by the wayside through my difficult transition back to the states. I had a new lease on life after that weekend and once again God continued to show His beautiful face.
I began looking into going back to the Dominican Republic which God had shown me at that conference and which I easily dismissed. I stayed 9 days in the DR and was able to help with the PT clinic and also gave quite a few massages to the missionaries. I have a friend I met there 6 years ago, Melvin, who has cerebral palsy. My friend, Richard and I have put music to the songs he has written and helped arrange them. One night we had a concert and Melvin preached. It was an undescribabel experience. When I returned from the DR things were a little crazy!
It was 2 weeks later that I would find out I had an opportunity to go to Haiti for 6 days. Another thing that was suggested to me at the conference that I had carelessly dismissed. This trip is an exploratory trip for our church to see how we can partner with them in the future. This is going to be quite an amazing trip for sure. Nothing is really mapped out in stone and that is how we prefer it to be!! We are praying for the Holy Spirit to lead us every step of the way. To the places others may not go or desire to go. We are not praying for safety but for boldness in the midst of trials to step out of our comfort zones and ask God for supernatural healing in physical, spiritual, and emotional realm. So this just catches you up some on what's been going on. I leave on May 6 and return May 11. I hope to keep up the blogging a little more and am a little sad I haven't as much in last four months. At this point I have all my credit cards paid and have much more freedom to travel as God desires that for me!! God is amazing and continues to show off in my life. I don't deserve it but it is all for His glory and His NAME!!! Until next time...
time to start up again
So it has been at least 9 months since I have blogged! Obviously things have been quite crazy after returning from Papua New Guinea. I have now been back a little over a year and life has definitely had its ups and downs, but overall I have seen God's continuous faithfulness in every area of my life.
When I came back to Little Rock things were a little awkward! I somewhat resented being back in Little Rock for I wanted the adventure to continue. Little did I know that is what the Lord had in store! This past fall I was a bridesmaid in 3 weddings along with that came numerous showers to plan and throw. I wouldn't have traded that for the world and I love these gals so much it was all ssoooooo worth it!! We had a blast. In the midst of that time I thought I would start training for the half marathon in March. Let the running begin and it did. I remember the day i hit 5 miles you would have thought I had climbed the Empire State building on the outside it was a great feat for me and I knew I could keep going!! I also worked really hard towards paying off the debts I had allowed to build up. Boy is that a freeing thing to do!! Making strides everywhere. That was what truly defined my fall, making strides to freedom!! Sticking with it to the very end!! The Lord is an amazing provider and was with me through it all.
So I got the fall behind me and ended the year running 8 miles, 30 lbs lighter, and 1 credit card down. Oh what a feeling!!! More to come...
When I came back to Little Rock things were a little awkward! I somewhat resented being back in Little Rock for I wanted the adventure to continue. Little did I know that is what the Lord had in store! This past fall I was a bridesmaid in 3 weddings along with that came numerous showers to plan and throw. I wouldn't have traded that for the world and I love these gals so much it was all ssoooooo worth it!! We had a blast. In the midst of that time I thought I would start training for the half marathon in March. Let the running begin and it did. I remember the day i hit 5 miles you would have thought I had climbed the Empire State building on the outside it was a great feat for me and I knew I could keep going!! I also worked really hard towards paying off the debts I had allowed to build up. Boy is that a freeing thing to do!! Making strides everywhere. That was what truly defined my fall, making strides to freedom!! Sticking with it to the very end!! The Lord is an amazing provider and was with me through it all.
So I got the fall behind me and ended the year running 8 miles, 30 lbs lighter, and 1 credit card down. Oh what a feeling!!! More to come...
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Unrest to Rest
I returned from Papua New Guinea about 4 months ago. It seems like so much longer ago. I have moments where I miss PNG terribly and the wonderful friends I made there. I find my heart hurting at times for those friends who have been going through such trials and I wished I could be there to encourage them or give them a hug. Lately there has been intense fighting in the villages surround the Ukarumpa Center. Many have been killed and many houses have been burned. Things like this happened when I was there and it is amazing the peace God gives amongst such tension. I never felt unsafe during those times. As I am here though many miles away, my heart hurts for this place. I do not know whether God wants me back there again, but I do know that Papua New Guinea will always be a part of who I am and who I will become.
Like the unrest in this country, I found much unrest in my soul as I returned to the states. The conflict inside myself that keeps me from being who God desires me to become. I wanted to return and wanted people to know I was different, but that required more than me just saying it, I truly needed and desired to become more of who I was created to become.
I was met with many trials financially, spiritually, relationally, and physically. There was a war going on in my soul. Now was the time to decide did I really want to take my relationship with Christ to the next level. Did I really believe God could do these things in me that I have believed for so long for other people. Was I going to allow the power of God to take over or was I going to continue to let fear suppress my soul.
As I walked through this tough transition, more and more I found my God saying FIGHT!! I felt like God was showing me I was going to have to fight to get to where He wanted me to be. I was going to have to persevere through things that didn't make sense. I learned many things and am thankful to say that I did fight and I did persevere. Honestly, it wasn't without a bad attitude at times or tears. I was several times overcome with fear and doubt, doubt if I would ever overcome.
I am glad to say because of Christ I have overcome. I once again learned that fear was not an option. I learned that I am not out of my mind and yes I can hear God correctly!! Just because things aren't easy does not mean God did not call me to them. I learned that I have to take care of myself. I have to know who it is God created me to be and go after it, not worrying what others may think or say or even if they believe I can do it or not. I have to go after what I know God desires. God can call us to certain things, but there is a perfect timing for these things as well. If we try to run ahead it can be quite painful and dangerous.
So for now, I continue to persevere in the things I know God has specifically called me to in this season. Sometimes it seems dull and a little boring, but in this time I am learning discipline. I am learning how to stick with something knowing that this something brings so much freedom. No, I'm not off planning another mission trip or moving to another state, but I am enjoying everyday life, searching for ways that I can be used. For now it is encouraging friends in Africa, friends after surgery, friends getting married, or having babies. These things may seem small compared to going and doing, but I have found peace in these things. So while my life seems a little less exciting to those on the outside. I am seeing God do some amazing things by allowing me to build stronger relationships with others and also building confidence in who I am to become.
While this transition back to this side of the planet has been one of the toughest transitions I have ever made, it also has a sweet side!! Because God is still here. He is why I persevere. I am able to find sweet rest in Him, the God who saves!!!
Like the unrest in this country, I found much unrest in my soul as I returned to the states. The conflict inside myself that keeps me from being who God desires me to become. I wanted to return and wanted people to know I was different, but that required more than me just saying it, I truly needed and desired to become more of who I was created to become.
I was met with many trials financially, spiritually, relationally, and physically. There was a war going on in my soul. Now was the time to decide did I really want to take my relationship with Christ to the next level. Did I really believe God could do these things in me that I have believed for so long for other people. Was I going to allow the power of God to take over or was I going to continue to let fear suppress my soul.
As I walked through this tough transition, more and more I found my God saying FIGHT!! I felt like God was showing me I was going to have to fight to get to where He wanted me to be. I was going to have to persevere through things that didn't make sense. I learned many things and am thankful to say that I did fight and I did persevere. Honestly, it wasn't without a bad attitude at times or tears. I was several times overcome with fear and doubt, doubt if I would ever overcome.
I am glad to say because of Christ I have overcome. I once again learned that fear was not an option. I learned that I am not out of my mind and yes I can hear God correctly!! Just because things aren't easy does not mean God did not call me to them. I learned that I have to take care of myself. I have to know who it is God created me to be and go after it, not worrying what others may think or say or even if they believe I can do it or not. I have to go after what I know God desires. God can call us to certain things, but there is a perfect timing for these things as well. If we try to run ahead it can be quite painful and dangerous.
So for now, I continue to persevere in the things I know God has specifically called me to in this season. Sometimes it seems dull and a little boring, but in this time I am learning discipline. I am learning how to stick with something knowing that this something brings so much freedom. No, I'm not off planning another mission trip or moving to another state, but I am enjoying everyday life, searching for ways that I can be used. For now it is encouraging friends in Africa, friends after surgery, friends getting married, or having babies. These things may seem small compared to going and doing, but I have found peace in these things. So while my life seems a little less exciting to those on the outside. I am seeing God do some amazing things by allowing me to build stronger relationships with others and also building confidence in who I am to become.
While this transition back to this side of the planet has been one of the toughest transitions I have ever made, it also has a sweet side!! Because God is still here. He is why I persevere. I am able to find sweet rest in Him, the God who saves!!!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
See the Lord is doing a New thing!
I returned from PNG almost 2 weeks ago. I was welcomed to Arkansas with much pollen and extreme allergies. Not really something I was hoping for, but it happens once a year at this time, and glad it's run its course.
I was greeted in the airport on 21st of April by family and friends. My nieces have grown so much. Analee is now one and her birthday was the 16th. Mercedes will be starting kindergarten in August. Wow!! I must admit there is nothing more precious than a 5 year old greeting you with her special name for you (she calls me G), jumping up and down and telling you how much they missed you, I truly am so blessed. It wasn't long before she started asking me for her stuffed crocodile she had requested on my return trip from Australia. The bliss lasted for only a moment. HAHA!
I found it so difficult at first to answer all the questions. I was asked what was best and worst part about the trip and I was speechless. Hold up guys I gotta process this and I will get back to you. I never usually struggle with words. I was surprised at how difficult if was to answer questions. I will admit it was one of the greatest experiences of my life and hands down most challenging experience. More details later on that!
So now I am back in Little Rock. Now what? I began my search here in Little Rock and was planning on staying here, but the Lord is doing a new thing. I am so thankful that I have had the time to read, pray, and drink Starbucks:) In my search I am acutely aware that God desires me elsewhere. I am so excited how clearly he speaks when I ask and once again a little less excited that He still desires to speak to me early in the morning.
I will reveal more of that move later when it all is finalized, but I can't begin to tell you just how faithful My God has been every step of the way. It's nothing for me to pray and petition God about my concerns and questions and the next morning the phone rings to confirm the direction is clear. I am ecstatic about this next step and I can't begin to tell you how much joy and peace overwhelms my life in the smallest steps of obedience.
Thank you all for your prayers during these last 3 months and keeping up with my blog. I think I will continue blogging, I have always been big on journaling, but this is such a great way to share the things I am learning with others and it is so easy. In the next few days I will try and answer those hard questions here on my blog, but until then know how grateful and thankful I am for being able to share my journey. I am even more grateful to the Lord for loving me and never letting go!
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Isaiah 43:18-19
I was greeted in the airport on 21st of April by family and friends. My nieces have grown so much. Analee is now one and her birthday was the 16th. Mercedes will be starting kindergarten in August. Wow!! I must admit there is nothing more precious than a 5 year old greeting you with her special name for you (she calls me G), jumping up and down and telling you how much they missed you, I truly am so blessed. It wasn't long before she started asking me for her stuffed crocodile she had requested on my return trip from Australia. The bliss lasted for only a moment. HAHA!
I found it so difficult at first to answer all the questions. I was asked what was best and worst part about the trip and I was speechless. Hold up guys I gotta process this and I will get back to you. I never usually struggle with words. I was surprised at how difficult if was to answer questions. I will admit it was one of the greatest experiences of my life and hands down most challenging experience. More details later on that!
So now I am back in Little Rock. Now what? I began my search here in Little Rock and was planning on staying here, but the Lord is doing a new thing. I am so thankful that I have had the time to read, pray, and drink Starbucks:) In my search I am acutely aware that God desires me elsewhere. I am so excited how clearly he speaks when I ask and once again a little less excited that He still desires to speak to me early in the morning.
I will reveal more of that move later when it all is finalized, but I can't begin to tell you just how faithful My God has been every step of the way. It's nothing for me to pray and petition God about my concerns and questions and the next morning the phone rings to confirm the direction is clear. I am ecstatic about this next step and I can't begin to tell you how much joy and peace overwhelms my life in the smallest steps of obedience.
Thank you all for your prayers during these last 3 months and keeping up with my blog. I think I will continue blogging, I have always been big on journaling, but this is such a great way to share the things I am learning with others and it is so easy. In the next few days I will try and answer those hard questions here on my blog, but until then know how grateful and thankful I am for being able to share my journey. I am even more grateful to the Lord for loving me and never letting go!
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Isaiah 43:18-19
Monday, April 13, 2009
Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
Wow!
I now have about 9 and half hours til I leave my house here in Ukarumpa. I board the plane to Cairns, AS at 10am. Today was a good day! It seems like yesterday I was just landing at Aiyura airstrip doe eyed with anticipation of what God had in store for me.
3 months later, I am a woman of culture haha! 3 months later I found how truly sweet it is to trust in Jesus. Jesus is faithful. Jesus is My Rock. In good and bad times He is My Hope!
I am leaving here with less certainty of what my future holds and more peace than I have ever known. I am full of hope and joy and so looking forward to sharing my experiences. I hope that I have many opportunities to share with many of you specific things God has done in my life.
God provided so perfectly for me my housemate, Lilah, who was quite a trooper with all my questions and idiosyncrasies. Her type of humor made me laugh more than a few times of day. She shared her Aussie culture with me and I felt right at home. I am so thankful that God knew and provided so abundantly. She is so many things I am not, like organized and I have learned so much from her and will never be able to thank her enough!
God provided another housemate the last few weeks, Jen, who added much laughter and encouragement to both of us and she washes dishes!!! There are just some people in life you have an instant connection and she is one of them. I am so thankful for her encouragement and discipline.
God has provided so many more people who have encouraged me along the way. Kindred spirits, if you will. He provided me with Nancy who from the beginning made it her plan to hug me after she saw me each time. It may sound silly to some, but in a place like this those are few and I love my hugs! She loved me and encouraged me and by listening and laughing with me. She allowed me to vent. I am so thankful for her sharing her life with me as well. God is so good.
I have already mentioned a couple earlier in my blog who were huge encouragement to me and my walk with Christ and I am encouraged by their perseverance during the hard times. I will always remember that God uses the simplest things to know He is in control, like cheesecakes!! What a story!!!
I could go to numerous countries and perform physical therapy, but what is so amazing is that it's the people that make the difference. God is so good to allow us to be used to encourage one another. I know I have been changed and I know that it is because of trusting in Jesus. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus!!!
I now have about 9 and half hours til I leave my house here in Ukarumpa. I board the plane to Cairns, AS at 10am. Today was a good day! It seems like yesterday I was just landing at Aiyura airstrip doe eyed with anticipation of what God had in store for me.
3 months later, I am a woman of culture haha! 3 months later I found how truly sweet it is to trust in Jesus. Jesus is faithful. Jesus is My Rock. In good and bad times He is My Hope!
I am leaving here with less certainty of what my future holds and more peace than I have ever known. I am full of hope and joy and so looking forward to sharing my experiences. I hope that I have many opportunities to share with many of you specific things God has done in my life.
God provided so perfectly for me my housemate, Lilah, who was quite a trooper with all my questions and idiosyncrasies. Her type of humor made me laugh more than a few times of day. She shared her Aussie culture with me and I felt right at home. I am so thankful that God knew and provided so abundantly. She is so many things I am not, like organized and I have learned so much from her and will never be able to thank her enough!
God provided another housemate the last few weeks, Jen, who added much laughter and encouragement to both of us and she washes dishes!!! There are just some people in life you have an instant connection and she is one of them. I am so thankful for her encouragement and discipline.
God has provided so many more people who have encouraged me along the way. Kindred spirits, if you will. He provided me with Nancy who from the beginning made it her plan to hug me after she saw me each time. It may sound silly to some, but in a place like this those are few and I love my hugs! She loved me and encouraged me and by listening and laughing with me. She allowed me to vent. I am so thankful for her sharing her life with me as well. God is so good.
I have already mentioned a couple earlier in my blog who were huge encouragement to me and my walk with Christ and I am encouraged by their perseverance during the hard times. I will always remember that God uses the simplest things to know He is in control, like cheesecakes!! What a story!!!
I could go to numerous countries and perform physical therapy, but what is so amazing is that it's the people that make the difference. God is so good to allow us to be used to encourage one another. I know I have been changed and I know that it is because of trusting in Jesus. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus!!!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Growing Pains
This past week, I have been thinking about my time here in PNG. I was thinking about one of my patients I had earlier. He was a teenager who had ankle and foot pain. He was desperate to get rid of his pain because he loved playing all kinds of sports. He saw a doc in the states who mentioned in his epiphyseal plates (growth plates) that they were uneven and causing friction leading to pain. The doc said it would work itself out over next couple of years, but that he would have to live with the pain. Luckily we found some things that eased his pain like taping his heel and giving him some ankle braces. It was so great to see him later, he was so excited to be running faster and jumping higher with almost no pain.
As I think back over this I find myself thinking more about growth and growing pains. It is God's nature for us to grow. With normal physical growth there are growing pains (like cramps and such), but things are worse when plates refuse to move and grow with the body and are uneven.
Growing spiritually has similar effects as well. When we experience normal growth there are pains that come along with that. Going from spiritual milk to solid foods requires much more work. It's easy to drink milk, but add solid foods and that requires chewing and increase in digestion. But when we are spiritually uneven or off balance that can cause even more pain.
Many of us resist growth because we do not like change. We fear those things we may have to leave behind and we fear the things that may be ahead, the uncertainty of the future. We add to the pain by being off balance, being disobedient to God's word and refusing to move forward because we are comfortable just the way we are.
God's plan for us is that we are in a constant state of growth. This allows us to fulfill His will by becoming more like Christ. We do not need to fear or resist growth because with growth comes more peace and joy.
I feel like PNG has been a growth spurt for me. Some things I resisted and made things harder than they should be, but I found when I just let go and trusted in God's provision, I did find peace. I want to grow and become more like Christ and understand His ways. Yet I find myself hanging on as well to the former things, not quite sure I want to leave things behind. For it is almost time to go back home and I have many questions. Will things look different? Will I look different, will anyone recognize me? The cool thing about this is that nothing in my life is certain, definitely not the future and yet I have felt more joy and peace than I have ever before in my life. How is that possible? Because I know that My God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He will always love me, He will always protect me. I know He holds my future in His hands.
While I know this is a process and I will always be growing and often resisting. I hope to remember that the pain is much more bearable if I just give in and let God do what He wants in my life and just embrace His plan, embracing the life that was created to bring Him glory!
So what will you do? Will you embrace growth or be like those stingy, stubborn uneven epiphyseal plates and cause yourself much more pain than required?
The thief comes only to steal, kill, destroy; I(Jesus) have come so that you may have life and have it more abundantly. John 10:10
As I think back over this I find myself thinking more about growth and growing pains. It is God's nature for us to grow. With normal physical growth there are growing pains (like cramps and such), but things are worse when plates refuse to move and grow with the body and are uneven.
Growing spiritually has similar effects as well. When we experience normal growth there are pains that come along with that. Going from spiritual milk to solid foods requires much more work. It's easy to drink milk, but add solid foods and that requires chewing and increase in digestion. But when we are spiritually uneven or off balance that can cause even more pain.
Many of us resist growth because we do not like change. We fear those things we may have to leave behind and we fear the things that may be ahead, the uncertainty of the future. We add to the pain by being off balance, being disobedient to God's word and refusing to move forward because we are comfortable just the way we are.
God's plan for us is that we are in a constant state of growth. This allows us to fulfill His will by becoming more like Christ. We do not need to fear or resist growth because with growth comes more peace and joy.
I feel like PNG has been a growth spurt for me. Some things I resisted and made things harder than they should be, but I found when I just let go and trusted in God's provision, I did find peace. I want to grow and become more like Christ and understand His ways. Yet I find myself hanging on as well to the former things, not quite sure I want to leave things behind. For it is almost time to go back home and I have many questions. Will things look different? Will I look different, will anyone recognize me? The cool thing about this is that nothing in my life is certain, definitely not the future and yet I have felt more joy and peace than I have ever before in my life. How is that possible? Because I know that My God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He will always love me, He will always protect me. I know He holds my future in His hands.
While I know this is a process and I will always be growing and often resisting. I hope to remember that the pain is much more bearable if I just give in and let God do what He wants in my life and just embrace His plan, embracing the life that was created to bring Him glory!
So what will you do? Will you embrace growth or be like those stingy, stubborn uneven epiphyseal plates and cause yourself much more pain than required?
The thief comes only to steal, kill, destroy; I(Jesus) have come so that you may have life and have it more abundantly. John 10:10
Monday, April 6, 2009
Please be in prayer
Ukarumpa Center here in Papua New Guinea has been holding a 2 week conference as they do every other year. During this time we have brought in teams to assist with VBS for kids and a team to provide activities for our youth group.
We have a team here from Pennsylvania working with the youth. This past Saturday this team and 4 of our members here were in a car accident. There was not anyone killed in this accident and all are in stable condition. 4 of the passengers (3 of our members and 1 from the team) were medevacd to Cairns, AS for further medical care. These injuries consisted of broken legs, hip, facial and jaw fractures. Other team members are here with lower leg fractures and broken arms and wrists. All of them are pretty banged up and have cuts from the accident.
We have 3 doctors on staff here at the moment and a few nurses. They have been working overtime and are pretty exhausted.
We ask that you keep all of these people and their families in your prayers. It has been difficult for team members being so far away from home and their families. This would be a difficult situation in the states, but to be so far away has added more pain.
Pray for continued strength for our doctors and nurses and other medical staff assisting with this. We have members with the patients in Cairns to help work through this time for emotional support.
It was a miracle that the injuries weren't any worse than they are. We are confident God and His angels were watching out for this group on Saturday. It has been a great time for our community to work together as a family.
We know God is going to use this for His glory. Thanks for your prayers.
We have a team here from Pennsylvania working with the youth. This past Saturday this team and 4 of our members here were in a car accident. There was not anyone killed in this accident and all are in stable condition. 4 of the passengers (3 of our members and 1 from the team) were medevacd to Cairns, AS for further medical care. These injuries consisted of broken legs, hip, facial and jaw fractures. Other team members are here with lower leg fractures and broken arms and wrists. All of them are pretty banged up and have cuts from the accident.
We have 3 doctors on staff here at the moment and a few nurses. They have been working overtime and are pretty exhausted.
We ask that you keep all of these people and their families in your prayers. It has been difficult for team members being so far away from home and their families. This would be a difficult situation in the states, but to be so far away has added more pain.
Pray for continued strength for our doctors and nurses and other medical staff assisting with this. We have members with the patients in Cairns to help work through this time for emotional support.
It was a miracle that the injuries weren't any worse than they are. We are confident God and His angels were watching out for this group on Saturday. It has been a great time for our community to work together as a family.
We know God is going to use this for His glory. Thanks for your prayers.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Plateaus
Where have you heard the word plateau recently? Well if you are a woman in your 30s like me, you have heard it referring to weight loss in countless magazines and books. One can not open up a fitness/style magazine without those articles teaching you how to rise above your plateau. How miserable it is to work so hard and then not see any results. Many at this point usually give up and go back to their old habits. Their fitness goals are dashed to pieces on the rocks below. Yet there are a few who stick with their routines and rise above.
As I was thinking about this, it reminded me so much about my walk with God. Oh how I long for those mountain top experiences. Remember those times when Jesus truly is the topic of all your conversations, when the Word of God is like a match that keeps your passion for Him burning. Oh those are the greatest times when God shows Himself so clearly in our lives.
For most of us those mountaintops precede those moments of flatness, those times when opening our Bible takes every ounce of strength we have. It's difficult to hear God's voice. We don't know which direction to turn and what is the best next step to take. These are the plateaus which many of us dread. Do we have what it takes to rise above. Can we get past this flatness? For many, these are times when we give up and rebel. We just don't see the point. (No pun intended)
This is where faith is required. What if we kept pressing on? What if we cried out to God to hear our prayers. What if these times when we are having difficulty seeing God even with our bifocals or trifocals, what if we stepped out in faith. Trusting Him even when things are so blurry. What if during these times we remained disciplined and continued reading God's Word even when it doesn't make sense. What if we decided that even though life seems a little blah, we opened our mouths and lifted our voices in praise to God. What would happen then?
Well like those fitness/weight loss plateaus, we would see true transformation. If we persevere we will see results. In fitness/weight loss goals, bodies are transformed with continued discipline. When we choose to remain disciplined regarding our relationship with Christ we can break through our plateau. We would see more than our bodies being transformed, but we would see our entire lives transformed. How different our world would be if more of us persevered instead of hanging our heads and throwing in the towel.
Paul writes in Corinthians that we are to run the race with strict discipline hoping to win the prize. We are not persevering for earthly riches, but for a crown that will last forever. By doing this and remaining disciplined in serving and living your life for Christ, you are not the only one whose life will be changed. For when we choose to run this race, whole nations can be changed.
So when you find yourself stilled by a plateau, keep running. For we can be confident that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Phil 1:6) The transformation is worth all the sweat and tears.
As I was thinking about this, it reminded me so much about my walk with God. Oh how I long for those mountain top experiences. Remember those times when Jesus truly is the topic of all your conversations, when the Word of God is like a match that keeps your passion for Him burning. Oh those are the greatest times when God shows Himself so clearly in our lives.
For most of us those mountaintops precede those moments of flatness, those times when opening our Bible takes every ounce of strength we have. It's difficult to hear God's voice. We don't know which direction to turn and what is the best next step to take. These are the plateaus which many of us dread. Do we have what it takes to rise above. Can we get past this flatness? For many, these are times when we give up and rebel. We just don't see the point. (No pun intended)
This is where faith is required. What if we kept pressing on? What if we cried out to God to hear our prayers. What if these times when we are having difficulty seeing God even with our bifocals or trifocals, what if we stepped out in faith. Trusting Him even when things are so blurry. What if during these times we remained disciplined and continued reading God's Word even when it doesn't make sense. What if we decided that even though life seems a little blah, we opened our mouths and lifted our voices in praise to God. What would happen then?
Well like those fitness/weight loss plateaus, we would see true transformation. If we persevere we will see results. In fitness/weight loss goals, bodies are transformed with continued discipline. When we choose to remain disciplined regarding our relationship with Christ we can break through our plateau. We would see more than our bodies being transformed, but we would see our entire lives transformed. How different our world would be if more of us persevered instead of hanging our heads and throwing in the towel.
Paul writes in Corinthians that we are to run the race with strict discipline hoping to win the prize. We are not persevering for earthly riches, but for a crown that will last forever. By doing this and remaining disciplined in serving and living your life for Christ, you are not the only one whose life will be changed. For when we choose to run this race, whole nations can be changed.
So when you find yourself stilled by a plateau, keep running. For we can be confident that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Phil 1:6) The transformation is worth all the sweat and tears.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
God is so stinkin good
This week has been such a great week for me. I know it is only Wednesday, but it's been great. Most of you know this about me, but those of you who don't should know spending quality time with people just really rocks my world. I have had the opportunity this week with my patients and with some girls here who I just recently met. One of the girls is my new housemate,Jen, and the other is Debbie and Missy who I just met this last week. It has been so fun to just really share stories from our past and being honest. It really lights me up and makes me smile. One of my patients who I have been seeing for the duration of my time here shared about her daughter who is really struggling at the moment. She shared how God is really working so much through these trials. How encouraging to hear people trusting God in midst of such pain and suffering.
Also this week God has been waking me up really really early to share certain things with me. I normally wouldn't be so excited about it since I have had such difficulty sleeping in PNG. I must admit I was a little frustrated about it and was like ok God just tell me what you want me to know so I can get back to sleep. After getting over myself I was able to listen and hear Him clearly. It's really neat how peaceful sleep is after those times.
Cheers, Angie
Also this week God has been waking me up really really early to share certain things with me. I normally wouldn't be so excited about it since I have had such difficulty sleeping in PNG. I must admit I was a little frustrated about it and was like ok God just tell me what you want me to know so I can get back to sleep. After getting over myself I was able to listen and hear Him clearly. It's really neat how peaceful sleep is after those times.
Cheers, Angie
Monday, March 30, 2009
random thoughts
Wow! It's hard to believe I only have 2 weeks left in this beautiful country. For the most part time seems to have flown by. I found myself this last week intentionally soaking it all in wanting to remember every sight, sound, and smell. As I was sitting at the ocean as the waves came crashing in I remembered how blessed I truly am. The freedom to go to another country and not have to hide why I am here. My housemate and I had dinner this week with some friends from Malaysia, they have been translators in PNG for many years and they talked of how they are unable to visit certain countries. How strange and incredible to know I have been given so much freedom and sad to know there are so many opportunities I have let slip away. I have learned that I can not allow those missed opportunities to hold me back, but to take every chance given to share this freedom I know.
I had the opportunity to rest this past week. I thought I might feel guilty about it, but when the time came I embraced this blessing. I enjoyed 2nd hand shopping and also shopping for those back home. I ate in restaurants with ocean views. The greatest time was snorkeling. Even though I have snorkeled before,I am still intriqued that there is a whole other world lying just beneath the waves. Of course I found Nemo. Also discovered lots of coral, sea cucumbers, blue starfish, lion fish, and many others. My favorite fish was black and white striped. I don't know it's name so I call it the zebra fish.
The last few days of the trip we headed to POC (Pacific Orientation Course). It's on top of the mountain and the view,well there are no words to describe how amazing. People come to POC to learn to speak tok pisin and also how to live in villages. We were there towards the end of the course. I was able to help some with their infirmities.
Cooking outdoors in housecooks, bucket showers, outhouses (liklik houses in pisin),
I must admit I admire these people. I enjoy camping and the outdoors, but I am still questioning whether this type of living could ever be for me. I slept under a mosquito net while I was there and of course took my malaria medicine religiously. I am sure I could adjust to that kinda life, but not sure if that's the life God has for me. I don't have to decide that now, but I'm not closing the door, I'm open.
Our trip home from Madang was quite eventful. As the girls have said it was an epic road trip. First of all there are 6 of us (5 girls and Papa G). Things were looking good as we headed back on our "5 hour" road trip. Many potholes awaited us, that was painful. Our first stop was about hour into the trip when we popped a tire (40 minutes). Our next stop about 3 hours into the trip because of a way to big truck trying to get up the mountain and was stuck in the mud holding up about 11 cars (40 mins). Then our nice pit stop in the sugar cane (5 mins) and a few minutes after that a petrol stop where Donna, as she was standing next to her door had a man reach in and grab her wallet. She ran after him and 20 people ran after him and caught the guy and wallet was returned successfully. (30 mins) So our 5 hour trip quickly turned into 8 hours, but it made for a good story at least. Needless to say arriving through the gates of Ukarumpa was a welcomed sight.
I started back at the clinic today. I now have a door to my therapy room. So exciting. It's good to be back in my temporary home. Looking forward to sharing some of my stories with you when I return to the states. Hope all of you are doing well.
Until then...
I had the opportunity to rest this past week. I thought I might feel guilty about it, but when the time came I embraced this blessing. I enjoyed 2nd hand shopping and also shopping for those back home. I ate in restaurants with ocean views. The greatest time was snorkeling. Even though I have snorkeled before,I am still intriqued that there is a whole other world lying just beneath the waves. Of course I found Nemo. Also discovered lots of coral, sea cucumbers, blue starfish, lion fish, and many others. My favorite fish was black and white striped. I don't know it's name so I call it the zebra fish.
The last few days of the trip we headed to POC (Pacific Orientation Course). It's on top of the mountain and the view,well there are no words to describe how amazing. People come to POC to learn to speak tok pisin and also how to live in villages. We were there towards the end of the course. I was able to help some with their infirmities.
Cooking outdoors in housecooks, bucket showers, outhouses (liklik houses in pisin),
I must admit I admire these people. I enjoy camping and the outdoors, but I am still questioning whether this type of living could ever be for me. I slept under a mosquito net while I was there and of course took my malaria medicine religiously. I am sure I could adjust to that kinda life, but not sure if that's the life God has for me. I don't have to decide that now, but I'm not closing the door, I'm open.
Our trip home from Madang was quite eventful. As the girls have said it was an epic road trip. First of all there are 6 of us (5 girls and Papa G). Things were looking good as we headed back on our "5 hour" road trip. Many potholes awaited us, that was painful. Our first stop was about hour into the trip when we popped a tire (40 minutes). Our next stop about 3 hours into the trip because of a way to big truck trying to get up the mountain and was stuck in the mud holding up about 11 cars (40 mins). Then our nice pit stop in the sugar cane (5 mins) and a few minutes after that a petrol stop where Donna, as she was standing next to her door had a man reach in and grab her wallet. She ran after him and 20 people ran after him and caught the guy and wallet was returned successfully. (30 mins) So our 5 hour trip quickly turned into 8 hours, but it made for a good story at least. Needless to say arriving through the gates of Ukarumpa was a welcomed sight.
I started back at the clinic today. I now have a door to my therapy room. So exciting. It's good to be back in my temporary home. Looking forward to sharing some of my stories with you when I return to the states. Hope all of you are doing well.
Until then...
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
explanations of pics
Ok guys so thought I would post some pics of the last month here. It has been really busy.
So the little guy you see with the mixer and by the cake is Daniel Parker. Dan is a 5 year old and he and his family are here from Australia. They were one of the first folks I met here. Well Dan loves the cake book and we had a great opportunity at the end of February to make Lilah, my housemate, a birthday cake so we proceeded with making her a giraffe cake with tree and grass. I am not that great with decorating so Lilah had to pitch in and help us finish it. It was lots of fun. Dan was so tired afterward, but we had a great time.
The picture with girl dancing in middle is Lilah and this was her karaoke birthday party. We had some folks over and were jammin all night. It was lots of fun and I got to perform one of Tiffany's greatest hits! haha!! gotta love the eighties!!!
So yes ladies and gentlemen I play soccer, I don't play well, but I play. Last Saturday we had a mini women's soccer tournament. We invited 2 villages Asuranka and Ukarumpa Village. Our ladies won both games, we were a mixture of expats(missionaries from outside PNG) and national women who are PNG missionaries. It was lots of fun. I was terribly sore the next couple of days and terribly sunburned, apparently one is supposed to reapply sunblock after a couple of hours or when one sweats it off who knew haha!!
The other pic I took is Martin (dental assistant) sitting in the break room. He is also one of my patients. Sitting next to him reading the paper is the dentist, Nellis, who is another patient. There are 2 breaks plus lunch throughout the day at 10am and 2pm. We also have our morning devotions in this room as well. It's a nice place to just go and relax and enjoy my Papua New Guinean friends.
Things here are going well. The plan is to head to Madang on Friday and we found out Tuesday morning our flight was cancelled. So our choices now are riding with some folks headed that way (5 hour trip) or maybe if we are lucky catch the helicoptor. I will be there for a week. Mainly resting, this work here is exhausting, much more than back in the states. I am looking forward to seeing a new place and it is on the coast. We will be doing some snorkeling and relaxing. On the last few days we will head to POC ( Pacific Orientation Course) where folks go before head out to individual villages. They learn all about village living as well as the language, tok pisin. I hope to be doing some therapy for these folks. They all have been told I am coming and so I am sure I will be busy and I am looking foward to it.
When I get back from Madang, Conference will have started. Conference is something have once every 2 years to discuss policies and elect new directors. People from all over PNG come in for it. I will be working some those weeks.
I have less than 4 weeks left here. Time has flown by. I have continued to learn new things daily. God has blessed me so much to allow me to have this experience.
Well I will post more after my trip and let you know how the snorkeling went.
Tomorrow I am heading out to do clinic in a village to see how that works, will write more on that later as well.
Until then...
So the little guy you see with the mixer and by the cake is Daniel Parker. Dan is a 5 year old and he and his family are here from Australia. They were one of the first folks I met here. Well Dan loves the cake book and we had a great opportunity at the end of February to make Lilah, my housemate, a birthday cake so we proceeded with making her a giraffe cake with tree and grass. I am not that great with decorating so Lilah had to pitch in and help us finish it. It was lots of fun. Dan was so tired afterward, but we had a great time.
The picture with girl dancing in middle is Lilah and this was her karaoke birthday party. We had some folks over and were jammin all night. It was lots of fun and I got to perform one of Tiffany's greatest hits! haha!! gotta love the eighties!!!
So yes ladies and gentlemen I play soccer, I don't play well, but I play. Last Saturday we had a mini women's soccer tournament. We invited 2 villages Asuranka and Ukarumpa Village. Our ladies won both games, we were a mixture of expats(missionaries from outside PNG) and national women who are PNG missionaries. It was lots of fun. I was terribly sore the next couple of days and terribly sunburned, apparently one is supposed to reapply sunblock after a couple of hours or when one sweats it off who knew haha!!
The other pic I took is Martin (dental assistant) sitting in the break room. He is also one of my patients. Sitting next to him reading the paper is the dentist, Nellis, who is another patient. There are 2 breaks plus lunch throughout the day at 10am and 2pm. We also have our morning devotions in this room as well. It's a nice place to just go and relax and enjoy my Papua New Guinean friends.
Things here are going well. The plan is to head to Madang on Friday and we found out Tuesday morning our flight was cancelled. So our choices now are riding with some folks headed that way (5 hour trip) or maybe if we are lucky catch the helicoptor. I will be there for a week. Mainly resting, this work here is exhausting, much more than back in the states. I am looking forward to seeing a new place and it is on the coast. We will be doing some snorkeling and relaxing. On the last few days we will head to POC ( Pacific Orientation Course) where folks go before head out to individual villages. They learn all about village living as well as the language, tok pisin. I hope to be doing some therapy for these folks. They all have been told I am coming and so I am sure I will be busy and I am looking foward to it.
When I get back from Madang, Conference will have started. Conference is something have once every 2 years to discuss policies and elect new directors. People from all over PNG come in for it. I will be working some those weeks.
I have less than 4 weeks left here. Time has flown by. I have continued to learn new things daily. God has blessed me so much to allow me to have this experience.
Well I will post more after my trip and let you know how the snorkeling went.
Tomorrow I am heading out to do clinic in a village to see how that works, will write more on that later as well.
Until then...
Monday, March 9, 2009
Beautiful Feet
How beautiful are the feet of those who spread good news Romans 10:15
I was talking with someone today who said the irony of this verse is that most missionaries feet really are not beautiful. Our feet here most of the time are terribly muddy or dusty depending on the day. It has rained here everyday for the last week and half. It never fails to really pour down around 4:30pm about the same time I walk home everyday. One of the days I started walking and someone picked me up and took me the rest of the way. There isn't the same danger of getting in cars with strangers here as there is in America. Thank goodness. Today I got dropped off only to slip in the grass walking to the door. Would have been a nice move if I were playing baseball, but not so pretty in a skirt. Flip flops and sandals are the shoe of choice here, but I haven't really figured out why. I am much safer in my tennis shoes.
Even though their feet may not be pretty, many of these people here truly are beautifl. So many families have given up everything they have known to further translation of the Bible. Many leave there college children and come back here. Some are very young and just starting families and some are retired and this is what God has led them to do in their retirement. How amazing are these people. It is quite a sacrifice to learn a new language and a new location. The beauty of Ukarumpa is that not only are we interacting with Papua New Guineans but we have privilege to interact with people from all over the world from many different denominations.
I recently visited with a couple from Ireland. John and Wendy Bailey are here with their 3 kids. It's quite neat how encouraging one couple can be in such a short amount of time. They took time to pray with me and for me. I was encouraged that evening and anticipate spending more time with them. I ask that you pray for them as they are making lots of decisions. Illnesses in the family and one daughter is graduating this year and the other possibly next year. If you wouldn't mind please lift them up in prayer for direction God would have them take.
This last week and half has been quite crazy for me. Other than being a little homesick, we have had some tragic events in last few days. These events have made people here a little stressed and combine that with continuous rainy days. God is in the midst of doing some amazing things and I would venture to say Satan doesn't like it. One of our members this past Saturday had a child run out in front of the car out of town and the child was killed. This is a difficult situation for here in PNG, the rule eye for and eye still applies. We are praying for justice in the court systems and protection for this family.
This past weekend I was able to go with the Parkers to Goroka, a town a couple of hours from Ukarumpa. The drive was amazing! The kids were so excited and using their binoculars to as they say "get a glimpse". We were able to do some 2nd hand shopping and eat in a restaurant. It was very therapeutic for me and I really enjoyed spending time with my Australian friends.
I have about 5 weeks left here and I pray that I will continue to accomplish the things God desires for me here in Ukarumpa. I am glad to report I have slept well 3 nights in a row. As I have said before I have been having difficulty sleeping, and it was really starting to effect me and my work so I am thankful for prayers that have allowed me to sleep better.
I am continuing to learn so much about God's Word and His Will for us as His children. I am learning more of God's Power through the Holy Spirit. More than ever I know God has so much planned for me more than I could ever ask, think, or imagine.
Until next time...
I was talking with someone today who said the irony of this verse is that most missionaries feet really are not beautiful. Our feet here most of the time are terribly muddy or dusty depending on the day. It has rained here everyday for the last week and half. It never fails to really pour down around 4:30pm about the same time I walk home everyday. One of the days I started walking and someone picked me up and took me the rest of the way. There isn't the same danger of getting in cars with strangers here as there is in America. Thank goodness. Today I got dropped off only to slip in the grass walking to the door. Would have been a nice move if I were playing baseball, but not so pretty in a skirt. Flip flops and sandals are the shoe of choice here, but I haven't really figured out why. I am much safer in my tennis shoes.
Even though their feet may not be pretty, many of these people here truly are beautifl. So many families have given up everything they have known to further translation of the Bible. Many leave there college children and come back here. Some are very young and just starting families and some are retired and this is what God has led them to do in their retirement. How amazing are these people. It is quite a sacrifice to learn a new language and a new location. The beauty of Ukarumpa is that not only are we interacting with Papua New Guineans but we have privilege to interact with people from all over the world from many different denominations.
I recently visited with a couple from Ireland. John and Wendy Bailey are here with their 3 kids. It's quite neat how encouraging one couple can be in such a short amount of time. They took time to pray with me and for me. I was encouraged that evening and anticipate spending more time with them. I ask that you pray for them as they are making lots of decisions. Illnesses in the family and one daughter is graduating this year and the other possibly next year. If you wouldn't mind please lift them up in prayer for direction God would have them take.
This last week and half has been quite crazy for me. Other than being a little homesick, we have had some tragic events in last few days. These events have made people here a little stressed and combine that with continuous rainy days. God is in the midst of doing some amazing things and I would venture to say Satan doesn't like it. One of our members this past Saturday had a child run out in front of the car out of town and the child was killed. This is a difficult situation for here in PNG, the rule eye for and eye still applies. We are praying for justice in the court systems and protection for this family.
This past weekend I was able to go with the Parkers to Goroka, a town a couple of hours from Ukarumpa. The drive was amazing! The kids were so excited and using their binoculars to as they say "get a glimpse". We were able to do some 2nd hand shopping and eat in a restaurant. It was very therapeutic for me and I really enjoyed spending time with my Australian friends.
I have about 5 weeks left here and I pray that I will continue to accomplish the things God desires for me here in Ukarumpa. I am glad to report I have slept well 3 nights in a row. As I have said before I have been having difficulty sleeping, and it was really starting to effect me and my work so I am thankful for prayers that have allowed me to sleep better.
I am continuing to learn so much about God's Word and His Will for us as His children. I am learning more of God's Power through the Holy Spirit. More than ever I know God has so much planned for me more than I could ever ask, think, or imagine.
Until next time...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
OBEDIENCE
I have attempted to write another blog for the last week and a half. What is it I want to share? I have been asking myself what am I learning here. I want to share more than just the weather and day by day activities. That obviously takes a little more thought and I have to make time to do this.
So I have now been here for 6 weeks. I feel like a different person and yet for the life of me I haven't yet been able to put my finger on how I am different. One of my friends was asking what I felt like the theme was that God is teaching me and the one word I guess that comes to mind is OBEDIENCE.
I came over here with the idea of helping missionaries through physical therapy and massages. Many of the mission trips I have been on before I had a plan of jobs to do and ended up doing something totally different. Be flexible. What I have found here though is God gave me His plan and this time I am to stick to that plan. I have many opportunities to work with the kids in primary school, musical, and even help with kids on weekends. I have opportunities to play sports throughout the week. I have done these things. But in the last couple of weeks I have noticed some of these things on top of the therapy I have been doing seem to drain me. There has been a steady rise in physical therapy patients. After much prayer I have added another half day to my schedule at the clinic and backed off on the other places for the need in the clinic is GREAT! I truly do enjoy working with my patients and just know being obedient to God's voice brings the greatest reward.
That brings me to the next thing. Our pastor here, Tim Schlatter, has been truly encouraging. One of the things he speaks of is taking care of ourselves as missionaries. If we do not take care of ourselves how can we begin to encourage and take care of those we are ministering? That has also been something I see as an act of obedience for me. The therapy during the day requires a lot of physical activity. I would say 90% of my patients need and receive deep tissue massages which is a full body work out. I have to be rested and in shape to be strong enough to administer continuous treatments. Unlike back in the States, I go to bed at a reasonable hour. I have time to workout in our weight room, and weekends are off limits for any type of therapy so I am rested when needed. That is a huge thing for me in learning to be obedient to God's voice. What I have found is that I once again have way more energy, the pain I have had in my back and such is practically non-existent, and I enjoy being able to give of myself for encouragement through therapy.
I have also been pre-occupied some about what I will be doing when I return home in 8weeks. I have tried not to think about it, but must admit while I love doing things last minute, I am quite a planner or well visionary is a better word. I have contemplated so many possibilities. I could move to Michigan, I could go back to school for something totally different, I could plan another mission trip, I could...
In another act of obedience I finally quit guessing and tried to be quiet. Instead of trying to do all these amazing things and this and that, I believe God has shown me that at this particular all those would only cause added stress and chaos. After much practiced quietness, my decision is to stay in Little Rock for the next few months and spend time enjoying my friends and family. There will be many special events taking place through the summer and fall. I am so thankful I will be celebrating with them.
How can you pray?
I ask that you pray for wisdom for me on how to treat my patients and that I remember I am here not only for therapy but to also encourage them in their daily lives and walk with Christ.
I will be on a panel next week for high schoolers for career day, I ask that I answer honestly and can be encouraging for some of those who want to practice therapy.
I mentioned some men in my church I attended growing up who were struggling with illnesses. Jerry Jordan passed away on Feb 19th. I ask you pray for his family and friends, he was loved!! He has a wife, 2 daughters, 2 son-in-laws, and 2 grandchildren. I am pretty sure his mother is still living as well.
I have not heard much about Tom Dedman, but I ask that you continue to pray for his healing. I know we do not get to see much healing these days, but I am hopeful and know we have a God who wants us to ask Him still for such miracles.
Please pray for both of these families that they are able to see and know God and His power.
I do not have any updated information on my aunt's sister-in-law, but please keep them in your prayers as well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blogs. I hope in some way you are encouraged as I am knowing others are reading this blog and praying for me.
Until next time,
Angie :)
So I have now been here for 6 weeks. I feel like a different person and yet for the life of me I haven't yet been able to put my finger on how I am different. One of my friends was asking what I felt like the theme was that God is teaching me and the one word I guess that comes to mind is OBEDIENCE.
I came over here with the idea of helping missionaries through physical therapy and massages. Many of the mission trips I have been on before I had a plan of jobs to do and ended up doing something totally different. Be flexible. What I have found here though is God gave me His plan and this time I am to stick to that plan. I have many opportunities to work with the kids in primary school, musical, and even help with kids on weekends. I have opportunities to play sports throughout the week. I have done these things. But in the last couple of weeks I have noticed some of these things on top of the therapy I have been doing seem to drain me. There has been a steady rise in physical therapy patients. After much prayer I have added another half day to my schedule at the clinic and backed off on the other places for the need in the clinic is GREAT! I truly do enjoy working with my patients and just know being obedient to God's voice brings the greatest reward.
That brings me to the next thing. Our pastor here, Tim Schlatter, has been truly encouraging. One of the things he speaks of is taking care of ourselves as missionaries. If we do not take care of ourselves how can we begin to encourage and take care of those we are ministering? That has also been something I see as an act of obedience for me. The therapy during the day requires a lot of physical activity. I would say 90% of my patients need and receive deep tissue massages which is a full body work out. I have to be rested and in shape to be strong enough to administer continuous treatments. Unlike back in the States, I go to bed at a reasonable hour. I have time to workout in our weight room, and weekends are off limits for any type of therapy so I am rested when needed. That is a huge thing for me in learning to be obedient to God's voice. What I have found is that I once again have way more energy, the pain I have had in my back and such is practically non-existent, and I enjoy being able to give of myself for encouragement through therapy.
I have also been pre-occupied some about what I will be doing when I return home in 8weeks. I have tried not to think about it, but must admit while I love doing things last minute, I am quite a planner or well visionary is a better word. I have contemplated so many possibilities. I could move to Michigan, I could go back to school for something totally different, I could plan another mission trip, I could...
In another act of obedience I finally quit guessing and tried to be quiet. Instead of trying to do all these amazing things and this and that, I believe God has shown me that at this particular all those would only cause added stress and chaos. After much practiced quietness, my decision is to stay in Little Rock for the next few months and spend time enjoying my friends and family. There will be many special events taking place through the summer and fall. I am so thankful I will be celebrating with them.
How can you pray?
I ask that you pray for wisdom for me on how to treat my patients and that I remember I am here not only for therapy but to also encourage them in their daily lives and walk with Christ.
I will be on a panel next week for high schoolers for career day, I ask that I answer honestly and can be encouraging for some of those who want to practice therapy.
I mentioned some men in my church I attended growing up who were struggling with illnesses. Jerry Jordan passed away on Feb 19th. I ask you pray for his family and friends, he was loved!! He has a wife, 2 daughters, 2 son-in-laws, and 2 grandchildren. I am pretty sure his mother is still living as well.
I have not heard much about Tom Dedman, but I ask that you continue to pray for his healing. I know we do not get to see much healing these days, but I am hopeful and know we have a God who wants us to ask Him still for such miracles.
Please pray for both of these families that they are able to see and know God and His power.
I do not have any updated information on my aunt's sister-in-law, but please keep them in your prayers as well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blogs. I hope in some way you are encouraged as I am knowing others are reading this blog and praying for me.
Until next time,
Angie :)
Monday, February 16, 2009
Another Update
So things here in Ukarumpa are good. I stay quite busy throughout the week. I am so thankful for my previous trainings because it absolutely prepared me for the type of patients I am seeing. It has been a month today since I have been in Ukarumpa which means I have been working in the clinic for 3 weeks. The patients are showing real progress and some have stopped coming because they are 100% better which is such a good thing because there are new patients who are trying to come and we have been having difficulty finding them appointments. This is a good thing, but I am praying that God will send someone to continue the work after I leave.
I have settled into a small group of girls which I am so thankful. Last week we had a time of worship and in the middle of it I realized I was the only American in the group. This verse popped in my head, "And He (JESUS) will be exalted among the nations. He certainly was 6 different nations were singing together praising the name of Jesus. How incredible!!
I met with the primary school music teachers on Wednesday and have begun working out the choreography for their musical, it's about King Josiah. It is really cute and will be lots of fun. The musical is March 12-13th which is the end of the school sememster.
Things here are pretty good. I do miss the folks at home, but God has provided much needed friends. I pray that He would continue to strenghten my friendships here and that I would be an encourager to everyone I come in contact.
Just talked to mom and dad and I ask that you please be in prayer for some folks back at home who are struggling with terminal illnesses. Two of the guys are from my church back in Camden. They both are such neat men and I pray for God's healing presence in their lives. There names are Tom and Jerry. I grew up with their children. Also for Karen who is my aunt's sister in law just that God would bring healing as only He can. Thank for you for your continued prayers here in Ukarumpa that God would continue to give me the knowlegde of how to treat these patients and that my time would be spent wisely and that i not worry about anything, but in prayer present my requests to God.
Thanks!!
I have settled into a small group of girls which I am so thankful. Last week we had a time of worship and in the middle of it I realized I was the only American in the group. This verse popped in my head, "And He (JESUS) will be exalted among the nations. He certainly was 6 different nations were singing together praising the name of Jesus. How incredible!!
I met with the primary school music teachers on Wednesday and have begun working out the choreography for their musical, it's about King Josiah. It is really cute and will be lots of fun. The musical is March 12-13th which is the end of the school sememster.
Things here are pretty good. I do miss the folks at home, but God has provided much needed friends. I pray that He would continue to strenghten my friendships here and that I would be an encourager to everyone I come in contact.
Just talked to mom and dad and I ask that you please be in prayer for some folks back at home who are struggling with terminal illnesses. Two of the guys are from my church back in Camden. They both are such neat men and I pray for God's healing presence in their lives. There names are Tom and Jerry. I grew up with their children. Also for Karen who is my aunt's sister in law just that God would bring healing as only He can. Thank for you for your continued prayers here in Ukarumpa that God would continue to give me the knowlegde of how to treat these patients and that my time would be spent wisely and that i not worry about anything, but in prayer present my requests to God.
Thanks!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
What I am Learning
Well it has been about a week since I have written. I must say my schedule has stepped up quite a bit. The word has gotten out that I am in town and most of my slots for seeing patients is full each day. I am grateful for my Wednesdays at the Primary school and my weekends to give my hands and body the rest it needs to fulfill next weeks duties.
I am grateful for some advice I was given on the way over here to remember that it's ok to say no to people and that rest is important. I was asked just this morning at church to work with someone today and was able to say no, but maybe tomorrow. God does desire us to be productive and do the work which He has called us to, but as a friend told me once, sometimes the godliest thing you can do is a take a nap. I must admit I have taken a couple this week which I am not accustomed to doing back home. I have been better for it.
When I am working in the clinic, I have been blessed with hearing people's hearts, how God brought them to Ukarumpa and hear about their desires and concerns. I have often said not only am I a therapist but also a counselor. I have enjoyed the listening ear as well while I am helping these folks get better.
In my readings and in my work I do here day to day, I am finding truth and the connection of being healed spiritually and physically. Many times in God's Word He asks if a sick person believes He, Jesus, can heal them. He tells them their sins are forgiven. He wants them to ask for His help in faith that He can heal. The beauty of God is He does not stop with spiritual healing but continues on with physical healing. I think the main theme is that we believe and have faith in His healing.
I have one specific patient who is an amazing person. This patient has been dealing with lots of pain and has seen lots of therapist and doctors. I realized though as I was working with this patient that until he believes that God wants to heal him then there is nothing I can do. Sure he may feel good for a day, but what God wants from us is to trust in His healing to trust in His love and faithfulness. I believe with the changes in his thought process he will experience healing.
This has been just one of the many things I am personally learning. Learning to truly believe God even when there is no evidence or "cloud in the the sky" that God is working this out. I have to have the faith. I must continue to petition God in prayer and know that He hears.
Knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love the Lord who have been called according to His purpose. God promises to supply all of our needs. He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it.
I am so thankful to have God's Word in my heart. I am so thankful that anytime I want I can pick it up and find direction, peace, comfort, TRUTH, love. I am thankful to be assisting with Bible translating behind the scenes. It is only right that the people in Papua New Guinea and in all the nations of this world have God's Word to learn that there is a God who loves them. A God who sent His Son to die for their sins, who rose and is able to be our own personal Savior, all we have to do is ask and believe. He never forces it, just like when healing in the Bible, the people asked for healing and then they believed and Jesus healed them. I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing and how He is healing so many spiritually and physically.
I am so thankful for those who are praying and continue to pray that God's will be accomplished in me while I am here in PNG! Thank you for your continued prayers!!!
I am grateful for some advice I was given on the way over here to remember that it's ok to say no to people and that rest is important. I was asked just this morning at church to work with someone today and was able to say no, but maybe tomorrow. God does desire us to be productive and do the work which He has called us to, but as a friend told me once, sometimes the godliest thing you can do is a take a nap. I must admit I have taken a couple this week which I am not accustomed to doing back home. I have been better for it.
When I am working in the clinic, I have been blessed with hearing people's hearts, how God brought them to Ukarumpa and hear about their desires and concerns. I have often said not only am I a therapist but also a counselor. I have enjoyed the listening ear as well while I am helping these folks get better.
In my readings and in my work I do here day to day, I am finding truth and the connection of being healed spiritually and physically. Many times in God's Word He asks if a sick person believes He, Jesus, can heal them. He tells them their sins are forgiven. He wants them to ask for His help in faith that He can heal. The beauty of God is He does not stop with spiritual healing but continues on with physical healing. I think the main theme is that we believe and have faith in His healing.
I have one specific patient who is an amazing person. This patient has been dealing with lots of pain and has seen lots of therapist and doctors. I realized though as I was working with this patient that until he believes that God wants to heal him then there is nothing I can do. Sure he may feel good for a day, but what God wants from us is to trust in His healing to trust in His love and faithfulness. I believe with the changes in his thought process he will experience healing.
This has been just one of the many things I am personally learning. Learning to truly believe God even when there is no evidence or "cloud in the the sky" that God is working this out. I have to have the faith. I must continue to petition God in prayer and know that He hears.
Knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love the Lord who have been called according to His purpose. God promises to supply all of our needs. He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it.
I am so thankful to have God's Word in my heart. I am so thankful that anytime I want I can pick it up and find direction, peace, comfort, TRUTH, love. I am thankful to be assisting with Bible translating behind the scenes. It is only right that the people in Papua New Guinea and in all the nations of this world have God's Word to learn that there is a God who loves them. A God who sent His Son to die for their sins, who rose and is able to be our own personal Savior, all we have to do is ask and believe. He never forces it, just like when healing in the Bible, the people asked for healing and then they believed and Jesus healed them. I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing and how He is healing so many spiritually and physically.
I am so thankful for those who are praying and continue to pray that God's will be accomplished in me while I am here in PNG! Thank you for your continued prayers!!!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
What a week in Ukarumpa
This week has been so full of exciting things and I once again am reminded how blessed I am for this opportunity in another country.
Lilah and me went to visit with Mandy Pherson and her kids while her husband is away in one of the villages for 3 weeks. Mandy is so much fun to visit with. One of the cutest things, Mandy's daughter Ella asked her mom before we came when the customers were coming. She is I think 4 years old or younger, she is very cute. Mandy has 2 older boys as well.
On Tuesday I worked at the clinic and then visited with the Wycliffe Associate folks for a potluck and Bible Study. They do this every week. I visited with Marsha, who is the music teacher at the primary school. She is heading up the 4-6th grade musical and asked how I could help. I declined the backdrop/set design and costumes because let's just be honest that is not an area I have been given much talent. Marsha was like well how about choreography? I was like yes. I love it, so now I am going to help out with that. Later in the Bible Study we studied Romans 6. It was a good discussion, I was exhausted by the end of the night.
Wednesday was half day of primary school volunteer. I started my day with 1st grade math. Good times, then headed to help out at the library. I then assisted Lilah, asst principal and art teacher with kindy (kindergarten) art classes. We worked with modeling clay. The kids were very cute and creative. That night I went to David and Anne's house (WA volunteer coordinators) and worked with David on some massage techniques. He showed me some trigger points and the book to go along with it. We worked on Anne on the dining room table. Lots of fun.
Thursday wasn't quite so busy at the clinic. I was very tired so was thankful for a slow day. Since I did not have many patients, I watched and X-ray and also counted meds for the pharmacist. I went home after that and was in bed by 8:45pm (that hasn't happened since I was 6 years old haha!) . I did not sleep the night before, was tired of taking Ambien to sleep and tried it, but tossed and turned all night Wed night, was given some Melatonin (non prescription and easier on the body) , supposed to aid with sleeping. I also added another mattress to my bed to help.
Friday morning I woke up very refreshed. This was the first night I had slept well without my prescription medication and I was so thankful. Glad to have slept for I had a full caseload. I had 6 patients and spent about an hour with each. Sonya and I met together for lunch, we had been trying to catch up with each other all week so it was nice to talk and have real quality conversation. Those of you who know me, know this was something that rejuvenated me for my top love language is quality time. We shared some things God was doing in our lives and asked for accountability and prayer. Very good for me. Friday evening, Lilah and I headed to the Parkers for hamburgers and movie. It was lots of fun to get to know this family. They have 2 boys and a girl. The youngest is Dan, we enjoyed looking at a cake decorating book (he even goes to sleep with this book) and he picked some we could make together soon. :)
Today I slept in a little and just relaxed this morning. I headed to meet the group to go to the drop in center at 130pm, they joked with me because when I arrived it was on time and no one else was around. They laughed and were like you know she has not been here long showing up on time and such. Ha! We headed about 3km out of the center and set up for kids to arrive. I loved loved loved playing with the children all afternoon. The center provided guitar lessons, tambourine lessons, drawing, table tennis, Frisbee, and soccer for the children. I did a little of all of it. It was probably one of the best times I have had since I have been here. The kids just love hanging out with us. Technically this center is for kids 12 and up, but they all want to be involved so when asked some will say they are 12 years old when they may not even be 5 years old, it is quite hysterical to me. We need more volunteers to have enough for all ages, but today worked out nicely and wasn't a problem. Tonight we had some folks over for dinner and a round of Spoons, one of the all time best card games. We had a blast and I just enjoy being around folks and being relaxed.
This has been my week, very full! It has been such a blessing to help the folks in pain with their issues and see them coming back feeling better. It has been great to hear how people are praying for me and my time here. I am so thankful to be sleeping soundly. I am thankful for new friends who love Jesus and who love to serve in His Name! This coming week I will be going out tomorrow morning into a village for church service. On Monday will be visiting a new Bible Study with girls some my age and some older. I also will be working with another couple on massage techniques. Thank you for your continuous prayers. God is doing some amazing things here!!
Lilah and me went to visit with Mandy Pherson and her kids while her husband is away in one of the villages for 3 weeks. Mandy is so much fun to visit with. One of the cutest things, Mandy's daughter Ella asked her mom before we came when the customers were coming. She is I think 4 years old or younger, she is very cute. Mandy has 2 older boys as well.
On Tuesday I worked at the clinic and then visited with the Wycliffe Associate folks for a potluck and Bible Study. They do this every week. I visited with Marsha, who is the music teacher at the primary school. She is heading up the 4-6th grade musical and asked how I could help. I declined the backdrop/set design and costumes because let's just be honest that is not an area I have been given much talent. Marsha was like well how about choreography? I was like yes. I love it, so now I am going to help out with that. Later in the Bible Study we studied Romans 6. It was a good discussion, I was exhausted by the end of the night.
Wednesday was half day of primary school volunteer. I started my day with 1st grade math. Good times, then headed to help out at the library. I then assisted Lilah, asst principal and art teacher with kindy (kindergarten) art classes. We worked with modeling clay. The kids were very cute and creative. That night I went to David and Anne's house (WA volunteer coordinators) and worked with David on some massage techniques. He showed me some trigger points and the book to go along with it. We worked on Anne on the dining room table. Lots of fun.
Thursday wasn't quite so busy at the clinic. I was very tired so was thankful for a slow day. Since I did not have many patients, I watched and X-ray and also counted meds for the pharmacist. I went home after that and was in bed by 8:45pm (that hasn't happened since I was 6 years old haha!) . I did not sleep the night before, was tired of taking Ambien to sleep and tried it, but tossed and turned all night Wed night, was given some Melatonin (non prescription and easier on the body) , supposed to aid with sleeping. I also added another mattress to my bed to help.
Friday morning I woke up very refreshed. This was the first night I had slept well without my prescription medication and I was so thankful. Glad to have slept for I had a full caseload. I had 6 patients and spent about an hour with each. Sonya and I met together for lunch, we had been trying to catch up with each other all week so it was nice to talk and have real quality conversation. Those of you who know me, know this was something that rejuvenated me for my top love language is quality time. We shared some things God was doing in our lives and asked for accountability and prayer. Very good for me. Friday evening, Lilah and I headed to the Parkers for hamburgers and movie. It was lots of fun to get to know this family. They have 2 boys and a girl. The youngest is Dan, we enjoyed looking at a cake decorating book (he even goes to sleep with this book) and he picked some we could make together soon. :)
Today I slept in a little and just relaxed this morning. I headed to meet the group to go to the drop in center at 130pm, they joked with me because when I arrived it was on time and no one else was around. They laughed and were like you know she has not been here long showing up on time and such. Ha! We headed about 3km out of the center and set up for kids to arrive. I loved loved loved playing with the children all afternoon. The center provided guitar lessons, tambourine lessons, drawing, table tennis, Frisbee, and soccer for the children. I did a little of all of it. It was probably one of the best times I have had since I have been here. The kids just love hanging out with us. Technically this center is for kids 12 and up, but they all want to be involved so when asked some will say they are 12 years old when they may not even be 5 years old, it is quite hysterical to me. We need more volunteers to have enough for all ages, but today worked out nicely and wasn't a problem. Tonight we had some folks over for dinner and a round of Spoons, one of the all time best card games. We had a blast and I just enjoy being around folks and being relaxed.
This has been my week, very full! It has been such a blessing to help the folks in pain with their issues and see them coming back feeling better. It has been great to hear how people are praying for me and my time here. I am so thankful to be sleeping soundly. I am thankful for new friends who love Jesus and who love to serve in His Name! This coming week I will be going out tomorrow morning into a village for church service. On Monday will be visiting a new Bible Study with girls some my age and some older. I also will be working with another couple on massage techniques. Thank you for your continuous prayers. God is doing some amazing things here!!
Monday, January 26, 2009
more village pics
just a few pics from the village, yes the little kid is carrying a bush knife, the house with opening and cover is the former "Starbucks", my friend Sonya in picture with me!
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