Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
New Pictures of the Little Man...
First wave???
The "photo shoot" on the futon!
Seth without hair!:^)
Playing in the music room!
6 months already!?!? No kidding, blink and you'll miss it. I have been trying not to blink too often these days, even this week with the cutting of his first TWO teeth and his first cold...all at the same time!! There are so many things I am looking forward to...hearing him talk, watching him learn to crawl and walk, watching him try new foods, seeing him meet new people, seeing his first act of compassion, and chasing the pets! Then so much I want to protect him from and so many conversations I look forward and dread having with him. But we miss so much of right now when we look forward. He is teaching me all about being in the here and now. Even at 6 months he knows when my mind is preoccupied and when I'm not totally into him. So I'm learning everyday how to say "yes" to him and "no" to other things that 7 months ago would have been a must before going to bed. How I strive to prioritize my faith in that same way...some days I do okay, most I probably fail miserably. But God knows I am weak like that and I know all about His mercy that I don't deserve. I'll spend a lifetime readjusting priorities and learning new rhythms. And I guess that's what makes it makes it...interesting!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Offended by Palin's Comments
I don't talk about Presidential politics much on my blogs for many reasons that I won't go into now. But I strongly felt Palin crossed a line during her speech at the NRC and I was thankful to find someone other than the media addressing the issue. And I was excited to see it was Jim Wallis at that. If you haven't heard of him, he founded Sojourners, http://www.sojo.net/ (a nationwide network of Christians working for justice and peace) and author of God's Politics. I hope you'll take a minute to read his article below. I have never held the title of "Community Organizer" but I do consider myself a Community Advocate and have held jobs that are essential to the making a healthy community. May you take your right to vote seriously and may your decision be one that is bathed in prayer and education of both candidates! - Christy
Palin Owes Some Good People An Apology (by Jim Wallis)
Wednesday morning I got an e-mail from a former member of our Sojourners community. Perry Perkins is now a community organizer in Louisiana with affiliates of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF). "Perk," as we used to call him, reported on the enormous consequences of 2 million people being evacuated because of Hurricane Gustav, much of the state now being without power, how hard cities like Baton Rouge were hit, the tens of thousands of people in shelters and churches, and the continuing problems caused by heavy rains and flooding. Then he talked about how their community organizers were responding to all of this -- responding to hundreds of service calls, assisting local officials in evacuation plans, aiding evacuees without transportation, coordinating shelters and opening new ones, providing food, essential services, and financial aid to those in most need. Since Katrina, Perry's Louisiana interfaith organizations have played a lead role in securing millions of dollars to help thousands of families return to New Orleans and rebuild their homes and their lives.Then Wednesday night I heard Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin say that her experience as "a small-town mayor is sort of like a community organizer, except that you have actual responsibilities." The convention crowd in St. Paul thought that was very funny. But it wasn't. It was actually quite insulting to the army of community organizers who work in the most challenging places across the country and have such a tremendous impact on the everyday lives of millions of people. I guess Palin and her fellow Republican delegates don't know much about that. The "actual responsibilities" of community organizers literally provide the practical support, collective strength, and hope for a better future that low-income families need to survive.
Community organizers are now most focused in the faith community, working with tens of thousands of pastors and laypeople in thousands of congregations around the country. Faith-based organizing is the critical factor in many low-income communities in the country's poorest urban and rural areas, and church leaders are often the biggest supporters of community organizers. And many of them felt deeply offended by Palin's remarks. Here are a few of their responses:
"As a lifelong Republican, the comments I heard last night about community organizing crossed the line. It is one thing to question someone's experience, another to demean the work of millions of hardworking Americans who take time to get involved in their communities. When people come together in my church hall to improve our community, they're building the Kingdom of God in San Diego. We see the fruits of community organizing in safer streets, new parks, and new affordable housing. It's the spirit of democracy for people to have a say and we need more of it," said Bishop Roy Dixon, prelate of the Southern California 4th ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, member of the San Diego Organizing Project and former board chair of PICO National Network.
They have also pointed out how the most important victories for social justice have come more from community organizers than elected officials.
"We can thank community organizing for the weekend, the eight-hour day, integrated swimming pools, public transportation, health care for children and safe neighborhoods. Community organizing is behind most of the family-oriented initiatives we benefit from every day. I am proud to work for change in my country, my state, and my city as a community organizer, following the great traditions of Dr. Martin Luther King," said Laura Barrett, national policy director of Gamaliel/Transportation Equity Network (TEN).
And when you put the accomplishments of politicians alongside those of community organizers for poor families, it isn't even close. Without the pressure from community organizers and the movements they lead, there would often be nobody to hold politicians accountable.
"Politicians should thank community organizers, not insult them. As a longtime organizer, I've seen time and time again that we are the ones who make government work for the poor, the powerless and the marginalized. Politicians' policies and promises would amount to nothing without grassroots activists to hold them accountable. We are leaders of faith and stewards of democracy. In a time when the face of faith in politics is often ugly, community organizing is a valuable example of faith's positive role in public life," said Pastor Mark Diemer, senior pastor of Grace of God Lutheran Church in Columbus, Ohio, and a DART community organizer.
Palin's effort to attack the experience of Barack Obama, a former community organizer in Chicago, turned into a bad joke and an insult. Palin owes a lot of good people an apology.
Palin Owes Some Good People An Apology (by Jim Wallis)
Wednesday morning I got an e-mail from a former member of our Sojourners community. Perry Perkins is now a community organizer in Louisiana with affiliates of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF). "Perk," as we used to call him, reported on the enormous consequences of 2 million people being evacuated because of Hurricane Gustav, much of the state now being without power, how hard cities like Baton Rouge were hit, the tens of thousands of people in shelters and churches, and the continuing problems caused by heavy rains and flooding. Then he talked about how their community organizers were responding to all of this -- responding to hundreds of service calls, assisting local officials in evacuation plans, aiding evacuees without transportation, coordinating shelters and opening new ones, providing food, essential services, and financial aid to those in most need. Since Katrina, Perry's Louisiana interfaith organizations have played a lead role in securing millions of dollars to help thousands of families return to New Orleans and rebuild their homes and their lives.Then Wednesday night I heard Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin say that her experience as "a small-town mayor is sort of like a community organizer, except that you have actual responsibilities." The convention crowd in St. Paul thought that was very funny. But it wasn't. It was actually quite insulting to the army of community organizers who work in the most challenging places across the country and have such a tremendous impact on the everyday lives of millions of people. I guess Palin and her fellow Republican delegates don't know much about that. The "actual responsibilities" of community organizers literally provide the practical support, collective strength, and hope for a better future that low-income families need to survive.
Community organizers are now most focused in the faith community, working with tens of thousands of pastors and laypeople in thousands of congregations around the country. Faith-based organizing is the critical factor in many low-income communities in the country's poorest urban and rural areas, and church leaders are often the biggest supporters of community organizers. And many of them felt deeply offended by Palin's remarks. Here are a few of their responses:
"As a lifelong Republican, the comments I heard last night about community organizing crossed the line. It is one thing to question someone's experience, another to demean the work of millions of hardworking Americans who take time to get involved in their communities. When people come together in my church hall to improve our community, they're building the Kingdom of God in San Diego. We see the fruits of community organizing in safer streets, new parks, and new affordable housing. It's the spirit of democracy for people to have a say and we need more of it," said Bishop Roy Dixon, prelate of the Southern California 4th ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, member of the San Diego Organizing Project and former board chair of PICO National Network.
They have also pointed out how the most important victories for social justice have come more from community organizers than elected officials.
"We can thank community organizing for the weekend, the eight-hour day, integrated swimming pools, public transportation, health care for children and safe neighborhoods. Community organizing is behind most of the family-oriented initiatives we benefit from every day. I am proud to work for change in my country, my state, and my city as a community organizer, following the great traditions of Dr. Martin Luther King," said Laura Barrett, national policy director of Gamaliel/Transportation Equity Network (TEN).
And when you put the accomplishments of politicians alongside those of community organizers for poor families, it isn't even close. Without the pressure from community organizers and the movements they lead, there would often be nobody to hold politicians accountable.
"Politicians should thank community organizers, not insult them. As a longtime organizer, I've seen time and time again that we are the ones who make government work for the poor, the powerless and the marginalized. Politicians' policies and promises would amount to nothing without grassroots activists to hold them accountable. We are leaders of faith and stewards of democracy. In a time when the face of faith in politics is often ugly, community organizing is a valuable example of faith's positive role in public life," said Pastor Mark Diemer, senior pastor of Grace of God Lutheran Church in Columbus, Ohio, and a DART community organizer.
Palin's effort to attack the experience of Barack Obama, a former community organizer in Chicago, turned into a bad joke and an insult. Palin owes a lot of good people an apology.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Engage-Reality
Some of you know Marcus and I have been working on a ministry called Engage-Reality since last September. God has been giving us the vision piece by piece, so the website http://www.engage-reality.com/ has been our attempt in putting those pieces together. At the time God gave us this vision, we were working with groups of people that were often ignored, misunderstood, and oppressed (Marcus with the homeless and myself with survivors of sexual abuse.) We soon felt alone in our passion for these issues - we wanted people to understand the truth behind the stories and stereotypes of those struggling in these issues. Our hope with Engage-Reality is to spark an interest in others to find a group of people they can be passionate about, then educate themselves about the issues and motivate them to some type of action/service. We are in the process of redesigning the website, and possibly turning this into a non-profit, where we will focus on core issues, public awareness of the issues, and linking individuals with work already being done on the issue. Please check back with the site in a few weeks and keep us in your prayers as we seek the direction God has for us. Below is our latest post from Engage-Reality's Blog: http://www.engage-reality.blogspot.com/
And thanks to everyone for your prayers and sweet words about Seth and the adoption! We love you!!
__________________________________________________
Why Should Christians Care About Social Injustice?
Poverty. Orphans. Degradation of women. Abuse of children. Homelessness. Unequal access to health care. In the last hundred years our society has shifted, from the church caring for the oppressed to government programs overseeing issues. Many may see this as a positive shift, and it is not a bad thing. The government does have the resources, funds, and research to address these issues. But something is gotten lost in the shift…people. When we view rape as an issue or poverty as just an issue something’s wrong. Behind the scary words, like sexual violence, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, there are people; people that are hurting, scared, isolated, and often hopeless.
I know that issues can be overwhelming. I have heard many people say “I don’t watch the evening news or read the paper anymore. It is too depressing.” But ask the same person what’s their favorite TV show? Don’t be surprised when you hear Law and Order or CSI! Is it okay for issues to be entertainment but not reality? But it is reality, “ripped from the headlines”, you couldn’t make up most of those plots. Caring about “issues” doesn’t make you right or left, red or blue, or “in the world”. Caring about “issues” makes you compassionate, even (dramatic pause)… Christ-like.
There are over 2,000 verses in scripture that relate to caring for the oppressed and the poor. 2,000! Do you think the God of all creation was trying to tell us something? Yes, something like, don’t forget each other while you are doing life. Jesus is the perfect example of what God expects from us. (No surprise right?) Jesus loved people, I mean really loved people. He didn’t care about social norms. Remember the Samaritan woman? Jews talking to Samaritans wasn’t going to happen, but a man talking to a woman in public was a disgrace. Jesus never put a stereotype on anyone nor did he have one size fits all way of healing. Instead he looked at crowds with compassion, took time to listen to stories, and touched people. Jesus was revolutionary in person and in love. He made history of 600 plus laws and gave his followers just two – to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and the second love your neighbor as yourself.
The kingdom of God is right now. We are in it, we are it. It isn’t just something that awaits us, but it is Good News that must be shared today with those that need hope and a future. The Good Samaritan saw one person, with one need he could meet. Maybe he left his house that morning with his day’s agenda in his planner and heard story after story of issues that were beyond his control, but he did not let that stop him from doing one simple thing. He simply crossed the street. He saw a man with an immediate need who wanted help, and then he did something about it. The Samaritan cleaned his wounds and carried him to a place that could meet needs beyond his ability. We are not meant to meet needs on our own. I think that is why many Christians find themselves overwhelmed or afraid to reach out. We are afraid we won’t know what to do or what the answer is. Yet, we are surrounded with resources, we just have to know them and be willing to learn how to help with a specific need.
God has not called us to be passive or timid. But he’s called us to boldly reach out with compassion to others and to look beyond an issue or a stereotype, and see a person. Yes, we must make ourselves aware of the issues, their prevalence and consequences. We can’t be effective if we are ignorant and we can’t help someone if we aren’t aware. So may we not see issues, may we see our neighbors.
I Dare You,
Christy
And thanks to everyone for your prayers and sweet words about Seth and the adoption! We love you!!
__________________________________________________
Why Should Christians Care About Social Injustice?
Poverty. Orphans. Degradation of women. Abuse of children. Homelessness. Unequal access to health care. In the last hundred years our society has shifted, from the church caring for the oppressed to government programs overseeing issues. Many may see this as a positive shift, and it is not a bad thing. The government does have the resources, funds, and research to address these issues. But something is gotten lost in the shift…people. When we view rape as an issue or poverty as just an issue something’s wrong. Behind the scary words, like sexual violence, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, there are people; people that are hurting, scared, isolated, and often hopeless.
I know that issues can be overwhelming. I have heard many people say “I don’t watch the evening news or read the paper anymore. It is too depressing.” But ask the same person what’s their favorite TV show? Don’t be surprised when you hear Law and Order or CSI! Is it okay for issues to be entertainment but not reality? But it is reality, “ripped from the headlines”, you couldn’t make up most of those plots. Caring about “issues” doesn’t make you right or left, red or blue, or “in the world”. Caring about “issues” makes you compassionate, even (dramatic pause)… Christ-like.
There are over 2,000 verses in scripture that relate to caring for the oppressed and the poor. 2,000! Do you think the God of all creation was trying to tell us something? Yes, something like, don’t forget each other while you are doing life. Jesus is the perfect example of what God expects from us. (No surprise right?) Jesus loved people, I mean really loved people. He didn’t care about social norms. Remember the Samaritan woman? Jews talking to Samaritans wasn’t going to happen, but a man talking to a woman in public was a disgrace. Jesus never put a stereotype on anyone nor did he have one size fits all way of healing. Instead he looked at crowds with compassion, took time to listen to stories, and touched people. Jesus was revolutionary in person and in love. He made history of 600 plus laws and gave his followers just two – to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and the second love your neighbor as yourself.
The kingdom of God is right now. We are in it, we are it. It isn’t just something that awaits us, but it is Good News that must be shared today with those that need hope and a future. The Good Samaritan saw one person, with one need he could meet. Maybe he left his house that morning with his day’s agenda in his planner and heard story after story of issues that were beyond his control, but he did not let that stop him from doing one simple thing. He simply crossed the street. He saw a man with an immediate need who wanted help, and then he did something about it. The Samaritan cleaned his wounds and carried him to a place that could meet needs beyond his ability. We are not meant to meet needs on our own. I think that is why many Christians find themselves overwhelmed or afraid to reach out. We are afraid we won’t know what to do or what the answer is. Yet, we are surrounded with resources, we just have to know them and be willing to learn how to help with a specific need.
God has not called us to be passive or timid. But he’s called us to boldly reach out with compassion to others and to look beyond an issue or a stereotype, and see a person. Yes, we must make ourselves aware of the issues, their prevalence and consequences. We can’t be effective if we are ignorant and we can’t help someone if we aren’t aware. So may we not see issues, may we see our neighbors.
I Dare You,
Christy
Monday, August 4, 2008
It's Offical...
I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him.
1 Samuel 1:27
A little over 4 months ago our lives changed forever. The word change seems too small for what really happened…transformed describes it better. One, seemingly normal, Thursday afternoon, 12 noon on March 20th to be exact, we received the phone call that all adopting parents wait not so patiently for. The voice of our case worker on the other end said, “Your son is ready for you.” I didn’t know if I should shout for joy or cry out of shock and happiness. I cried… and called Marcus, “Come home now…we have to go to Columbia…We have a boy.” It took several repeats of that statement and picking Seth up from the hospital for him to believe me. The transformation happened in 6 hours – notified at noon and held him in our arms by 6 pm! That is a day we will never forget.
Things are very different for parents who adopt verses those who can have biological children. For biological parents, you are never interviewed – questioned of everything in your past that could affect your ability to parent well or not, you home is never inspected, and once you hold your child in your arms, count all the fingers and toes, and look into their beautiful eyes, biological parents never have a lingering question of “What if something goes wrong? What if the biological father shows up?” So for us the next most important day after bringing Seth home from the hospital was his court date for finalization.
The day was full of anxiety, excitement and in the end, relief and peace. We didn’t expect any surprises. Our lawyer was as thorough as they come, prepared us for every question and possibility. But you can’t help but to question or think something will go wrong or be rescheduled, especially after our journey. But God knew what we needed and things absolutely could not have gone smoother. It was pretty special having family there to celebrate with afterwards too. And what an incredible anniversary present. Today we are official!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
I must show some indignation....
Warning: IF you respect James Dobson please do not read this post, you will be offended. Consider yourself warned............
MSN is my homepage. And today the headline was “Evangelical Leader Rips Obama.” Of course it was James Dobson. I am sorry I may offend some, but I passionately dislike this man (notice I didn’t say Gentleman)! Let me break this to him and his followers gently; we are not a Christian nation (haven't been for years now), Mr. Dobson should not speak for the Christian community, and is he a Psychologist or a Tim Russert wanna be??
It pained me to even try to listen to his broadcast today. Every election is the same song and dance for Dobson, good ole Christian Bashing of brave men and women who dare to enter an election to run this country. (Though I don't approve of many who run, I wouldn't attempt or imagine trying to run a country.) The whole feel of the program was poor me, why did Obama jump on me in this speech, over 2 years ago may I add. Obama was simply comparing the
'Christian thinkers' (wow I use that description very loosely) of today, much like Paul did with Apollos and Cephas. It was a very smart speech by Obama, that Dobson and his fellow partners in crime totally took out of context by taking quotes here and there and cutting him off before the point is made. But Christians are very good at picking and choosing anyway, isn't that why we use highlighters in our bibles?
So I won't go on a complete rant here are my problems with this guy:
1. He makes conservative Christians appear ignorant, judgmental, and merciless to the rest of the world. (Check out Hosea 6:6)
2 It all goes back to Abortion. I am not denying the importance for us to stand against this injustice to innocent children - but where is his loud voice on all the other injustices that children face every day; sexual and physical abuse, neglect, lack of education, lack of respect even in our churches, children left in foster care, or those that are born into families that never intend to love or care for them. Just advocate for children's rights - advocating for an issue is about controlling what you don't like. My quote on the abortion issue: No uterus, no opinion!
3. Isn't it a contradiction to be against the killing of babies but support a president who sends us in to a war where innocence men and women kill and are being killed?
4. Pro-family. Notice this never has anything to do with upholding God's standards of a husband and wife of stay committed to each other (unless of course he is talking about how only the wife is to submit), but only that family is not for the homosexuals. Do we as Christians even have the right to say others are breaking the sanctity of marriage when the divorce rates of evangelicals equal that of non-believers?
I'll end there for now... my little boss calls.....
But I think I still have the outrage ability in me!!! :^)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25343812?GT1=43001
MSN is my homepage. And today the headline was “Evangelical Leader Rips Obama.” Of course it was James Dobson. I am sorry I may offend some, but I passionately dislike this man (notice I didn’t say Gentleman)! Let me break this to him and his followers gently; we are not a Christian nation (haven't been for years now), Mr. Dobson should not speak for the Christian community, and is he a Psychologist or a Tim Russert wanna be??
It pained me to even try to listen to his broadcast today. Every election is the same song and dance for Dobson, good ole Christian Bashing of brave men and women who dare to enter an election to run this country. (Though I don't approve of many who run, I wouldn't attempt or imagine trying to run a country.) The whole feel of the program was poor me, why did Obama jump on me in this speech, over 2 years ago may I add. Obama was simply comparing the
'Christian thinkers' (wow I use that description very loosely) of today, much like Paul did with Apollos and Cephas. It was a very smart speech by Obama, that Dobson and his fellow partners in crime totally took out of context by taking quotes here and there and cutting him off before the point is made. But Christians are very good at picking and choosing anyway, isn't that why we use highlighters in our bibles?
So I won't go on a complete rant here are my problems with this guy:
1. He makes conservative Christians appear ignorant, judgmental, and merciless to the rest of the world. (Check out Hosea 6:6)
2 It all goes back to Abortion. I am not denying the importance for us to stand against this injustice to innocent children - but where is his loud voice on all the other injustices that children face every day; sexual and physical abuse, neglect, lack of education, lack of respect even in our churches, children left in foster care, or those that are born into families that never intend to love or care for them. Just advocate for children's rights - advocating for an issue is about controlling what you don't like. My quote on the abortion issue: No uterus, no opinion!
3. Isn't it a contradiction to be against the killing of babies but support a president who sends us in to a war where innocence men and women kill and are being killed?
4. Pro-family. Notice this never has anything to do with upholding God's standards of a husband and wife of stay committed to each other (unless of course he is talking about how only the wife is to submit), but only that family is not for the homosexuals. Do we as Christians even have the right to say others are breaking the sanctity of marriage when the divorce rates of evangelicals equal that of non-believers?
I'll end there for now... my little boss calls.....
But I think I still have the outrage ability in me!!! :^)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25343812?GT1=43001
Monday, June 23, 2008
A Change of Rhythm
With a new baby brings a change in the rhythm of things, to say the least! Still not one complaint or anything I would change. But finding time to stay connected to God, my husband and myself has proved to be a challenge with our new "little boss"! I watch the news now more than ever, so there have been many things that have outraged me that I've been thinking and writing about. (By the way, if gas prices were "record breaking" yesterday, doesn't that mean they are "record breaking" today too. But without fail it is said everyday!) But I just don't feel that those outrages should take this post. These days time alone is precious. Instead I wanted to share some of the scriptures that have stopped me in my tracks in the last few weeks!
James 1:6-8 (TNIV)
6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Those who doubt should not think they will receive anything from the Lord; 8 they are double-minded and unstable in all they do.
God wants us to be decisive. I struggle with that sometime - often I cheat and let time make a decision for me. But God wants us to make up our minds and not fear failures or mistakes.
Hebrews 10:10 and 14 (NLT)
10 For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. 14 For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy.
In Christ we are complete right now - in Him we are whole. Jesus did everything we will ever need. There's nothing left to add or change. There is no sacrifice left for us to bring Him - He did it all. We can't add to what He has already done - not holding on to the past, not forgiving ourselves, not hanging on to our mistakes. Jesus has done all we need and we just have to grasp on to the truth that in Him we are complete!
Ephesians 1:4 (NLT)
4 Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.
Being made holy seems to be a ongoing theme for me. God's love must come first - it is through His love that we have the power and security that enables us to be holy and fulfill our God given purpose.
Galatians 5:22
The fruit of the spirit Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control; those things are resources from God. I rethink things now, to say "I have no patience" is to say "God really doesn't have enough power to give that to me." But these are God's resources that give us the power, that isn't naturally within us, to live differently.
Genesis 1:27 (TNIV)
So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
Imagine the possibilities when we put into practice being made in His image? How would you look at yourself differently? How would you look at others differently? I am stuck here in this verse - considering how different my life should be just because of that verse. So I'm doing lots of writing and study on that theme...I'll get back to you on that.
James 1:6-8 (TNIV)
6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Those who doubt should not think they will receive anything from the Lord; 8 they are double-minded and unstable in all they do.
God wants us to be decisive. I struggle with that sometime - often I cheat and let time make a decision for me. But God wants us to make up our minds and not fear failures or mistakes.
Hebrews 10:10 and 14 (NLT)
10 For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. 14 For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy.
In Christ we are complete right now - in Him we are whole. Jesus did everything we will ever need. There's nothing left to add or change. There is no sacrifice left for us to bring Him - He did it all. We can't add to what He has already done - not holding on to the past, not forgiving ourselves, not hanging on to our mistakes. Jesus has done all we need and we just have to grasp on to the truth that in Him we are complete!
Ephesians 1:4 (NLT)
4 Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.
Being made holy seems to be a ongoing theme for me. God's love must come first - it is through His love that we have the power and security that enables us to be holy and fulfill our God given purpose.
Galatians 5:22
The fruit of the spirit Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control; those things are resources from God. I rethink things now, to say "I have no patience" is to say "God really doesn't have enough power to give that to me." But these are God's resources that give us the power, that isn't naturally within us, to live differently.
Genesis 1:27 (TNIV)
So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
Imagine the possibilities when we put into practice being made in His image? How would you look at yourself differently? How would you look at others differently? I am stuck here in this verse - considering how different my life should be just because of that verse. So I'm doing lots of writing and study on that theme...I'll get back to you on that.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
This is INSANE!!!
I am so glad to live in America, to drive in my own car...with just my husband and baby, and yes after watching this to even pay ridiculous gas prices!! I guess the Japanese don't have personal space or a body-bubble!! I would freak out, no maybe just live on the streets if this was the only way to work!!!!
Friday, May 23, 2008
The Glory of It All
For me there are worship songs, then there are Worship Songs! You know, the personal ones that dare you go deep down look at all your stuff - the good, the bad, the pain, the joys, and complete brokenness and failure - then realize it all pales in the awesomeness of who God is. You can't possibly experience God and remain who you are and where you were. Without God I am nothing - nothing works, nothing makes sense, and everything is chaos. And as messed up I am, it is amazing that he came to rescue and repair me once and for all.
Enjoy the video. It takes me to a new level every time I hear it!
Enjoy the video. It takes me to a new level every time I hear it!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
More Pictures
Motherhood isn't allowing much time for pastime activities, such as blogging. But NO Complaints here. We are getting a regular schedule now, so writing will come again soon. Right now I'm having fun hanging out with the little man!! Today I'm answering the requests for new pictures - so here you go.
HAPPY BABY!!
COOL DUDE!!
HAPPY BABY!!
COOL DUDE!!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Saturday, April 19, 2008
The Kingdom of God
Here is a concept I’ve heard all my life. But it wasn’t until recently (from November to today, to be exact) that “the Kingdom of God” became more that just some religious jargon or just a concept – it was the central purpose of Jesus. Throughout the gospels we read Jesus speaking of the Kingdom of God over and over; “The Kingdom of God is at hand”, “Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done.” It wasn’t a warning of impending doom, it was His mission – and for too long I’ve missed it…I missed Jesus mission. I thought it was only to save, and yes it was that. But if I limit Jesus to that one moment I have missed His life!
Jesus came to create His Kingdom here…on earth. Recently I’ve asked, “What does that look like?” Check out Isaiah 65 starting at verse 17 – the sound of weeping and crying will be heard no more, never again will infants live but a few days or older people not live out their years, no labor in vain, no misfortune, before we even call God will answer. Surely little me couldn’t bring that here, that is the after-life reward for behaving so well on earth. If we live that way, we have missed the life Jesus came to give – abundant. Every Christ-follower is to bring the Kingdom of God here and now.
Over 2,000 verses in the bible dare us to respond to the poor and the oppressed. When we care and respect people just because of God’s love in us, - not because it is our job, or because of some church program or challenge, or because we have some agenda to bring them to church or get them saved – then we have brought the Kingdom of God to the here and now. The Kingdom of God happens when we see beyond ourselves, when we reach out to someone, when we partner with others who are doing what we can’t do alone, when we look at someone who doesn’t look like us and see a child of God not color, class, wealth or lack of. One day we will stand amazed at the simple things we’ve done, some we will remember others will be long forgotten, and we hear “Well done good and faithful servant”.
Check out the YouTube of Tony Campolo telling two great stories of ordinary people bring the Kingdom into their ordinary days.
Jesus came to create His Kingdom here…on earth. Recently I’ve asked, “What does that look like?” Check out Isaiah 65 starting at verse 17 – the sound of weeping and crying will be heard no more, never again will infants live but a few days or older people not live out their years, no labor in vain, no misfortune, before we even call God will answer. Surely little me couldn’t bring that here, that is the after-life reward for behaving so well on earth. If we live that way, we have missed the life Jesus came to give – abundant. Every Christ-follower is to bring the Kingdom of God here and now.
Over 2,000 verses in the bible dare us to respond to the poor and the oppressed. When we care and respect people just because of God’s love in us, - not because it is our job, or because of some church program or challenge, or because we have some agenda to bring them to church or get them saved – then we have brought the Kingdom of God to the here and now. The Kingdom of God happens when we see beyond ourselves, when we reach out to someone, when we partner with others who are doing what we can’t do alone, when we look at someone who doesn’t look like us and see a child of God not color, class, wealth or lack of. One day we will stand amazed at the simple things we’ve done, some we will remember others will be long forgotten, and we hear “Well done good and faithful servant”.
Check out the YouTube of Tony Campolo telling two great stories of ordinary people bring the Kingdom into their ordinary days.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Promises of Psalm 139 for Seth!
The Lord has searched you and He knows you.
He knows when you sit and when you rise; even from a distance He knows what you are thinking.
He knows when you go out and when you lay down; and he is familiar with all your ways – you are not out of His sight for one moment.
Before a word even comes out your mouth, God knows it.
Look behind you - God is there, Look ahead of you and He is waiting for you. His hand will always comfort you, even when ours can’t.
All this is too wonderful and almost too much to take in!
Is there any where you can go from his Spirit or run from His presence? If you go up to the heavens, there He is. If you go to the depths of the earth, underground, God is there. If you ride on the mornings wings or settle on the other side of the sea – even there He waits for you; to guide you, to love you.
If you say, “I know, the darkness will hide me.” Even the dark isn’t dark to God – night and day, dark and light, they are all the same to God.
God created you from the inside out – He formed you in the womb – you are amazing. We praise God because you are fearfully and wonderfully made. God knew exactly how you were made, bit by bit, how you were sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, God watched you grow from conception to birth; all the stages of your life were spread out before Him. The days of your life all prepared before you even lived one day.
God’s thoughts about us are incredible. They are so many we can’t even count them – they absolutely out number the grains of sand.
Seth, May you wake up every morning knowing God is with you and be willing to walk with Him every day! -Mom and Dad
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Surreal
Surreal, that is the best way to describe the life since Thursday, March 20 from 12 noon until right now! (I had no idea the gift that would be born to us the very next day after my last posting.) Seth is awesome - well worth unexpected mid-day phone call to come to Columbia pick him up as he is discharged from the hospital, then the hour of complete chaos that followed, and of course the missed sleep here and there! (God is amazing, not only did he answer in a great way, but in ways we couldn't even imagine...another awesome gift at Easter...that is almost too much!) As we were signing the papers and even seeing him for the first time, I had an incredible since of calmness...and it hasn't left yet. (Which says a lot for the highly stressed woman I have always been!) This little guy is the only thing that has ever made me forget about completing the to-do list, inboxes, and a kept house! NO ONE ever told me being a parent was so much fun - even the late nights!! Marcus is an incredible dad - not that I was surprised! Seth, you were worth the wait!!
Monday, March 17, 2008
Adoption - a powerful message
For those of you that missed the Carolina Hope / Caedmen's Call concert a couple of weeks ago - here is an amazing video that was shown. What an amazing take on adoption!!! (By the way...we are still waiting!!! No word yet...please keep praying. We know it is all in God's timing, but waiting to start a family is hard work!! ;0) Enjoy the video....
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Give me normal and HOME!
I am so glad this week is done and over!!! Nothing last week was normal or ordinary. I like variety, but make it somewhat ordered-variety please. Here was the total randomness of last week:
- - So I realized the reason for the 4 am wake up from God about the vine and the branches. I'm so thick in the head sometimes! It was about intimacy, total dependence on Him! I need to be reminded of that often - I tend to handle things on my own too often and intimacy doesn't always come nature to me. But I still wonder why God felt the need to wake me up at 4 am for that one!! (Maybe that was His way of being intimate!)
- - Monday afternoon I met up with some friends to catch Eve Ensler (author and activist of ending violence against women) to speak at Clemson. She was incredible. Her controversial play, The Vagina Monologues, have helped women all across the globe find their voice after being assaulted and has made a huge impact in raising awareness, funding, and changing laws. Another reminder that one person can make a difference with passion, determination, and compassion.
- - Tuesday I spent the day at Fair Oak Elementary presenting the Safe Touch Program for 2nd graders. That's always a great experience. Kids want to know about keeping their bodies safe...I wish more adults would take prevention as serious. (I've contacted 8 to 10 churches now concerning the Stewards of Children training...So far there is no interest or immediate need to schedule Sexual Abuse awareness or prevention in our area. I WILL NOT BE DISCOURAGED OR FRUSTRATED...change takes time!)
- - Wednesday I tagged along with Marcus to keep him company on a sales trip to Tennessee.
- - Thursday we hit the road again, this time to Orangeburg to check on the family - mom's heart cath went well! Thanks for your prayers and thoughts. :^)
- - We made it back in time for Home Group and practice Thursday night!!
- - Friday was the usual helping out at the church office. And then the rest of the day....STRESS. Marcus and I played some original and covers songs at The Corner Bagel. We haven't done that in 10 years!!! (It probably showed!!) But life right now for us is about going beyond our comfort zone (I am definitely not comfortable singing!!) and living without regrets. It was a good experience! I learned a lot and have somethings I want to work on...so it is all good, I'm just really glad it is OVER!! Thanks TO EVERYONE that came out Friday night...Your support meant A LOT to us!!!
- - Saturday we hung out again with our friends under the bridge - Always a blessing. Then we did NOTHING the rest of the day....We were exhausted!!
I've sat down several times this week to blog, but just too tired. With all the car time and new experiences this week, there have been new thoughts and lessons learned...maybe I'll blog on that later, but for now I'm looking forward to a normal week ahead and catching up with an old friend tonight.
Until next time - be blessed!
Friday, March 7, 2008
A True Hero and Survivor
The story of teenager, Elizabeth Shoaf, was told on Dateline tonight. Her story speaks of the reality of pure evil in our world and the strength to overcome it. I am always moved to hear how others survive sexual assault. Each story in someway pushes me to advocate more. There is so much out there that often doesn't support them - our justice system, myths, stereotypes, even family and friends. I will blog more on this issue later, but for now I wanted to share with you a true survivor. Elizabeth proves the strength and resilience of kids - we adults can learn a lot from her.
This story happened in South Carolina. Elizabeth's story is not the norm. Statistics show that only 10% of abusers in child sexual abuse cases are strangers. 90% of children are sexually abused by people they know and trust.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23522127/ (Dateline Story- In to the Woods)
http://insidedateline.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/03/06/739278.aspx (Elizabeth's Blog)
"survivors are part turtle
we are part potato bug
we know enough to go fetal
'til it's still up above" - Ani Difranco
"and what if there are no damsels in distress
what if i knew that and i called your bluff
don't you think every kitten figures out how to get down
whether or not you ever show up" -Ani Difranco
This story happened in South Carolina. Elizabeth's story is not the norm. Statistics show that only 10% of abusers in child sexual abuse cases are strangers. 90% of children are sexually abused by people they know and trust.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23522127/ (Dateline Story- In to the Woods)
http://insidedateline.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/03/06/739278.aspx (Elizabeth's Blog)
"survivors are part turtle
we are part potato bug
we know enough to go fetal
'til it's still up above" - Ani Difranco
"and what if there are no damsels in distress
what if i knew that and i called your bluff
don't you think every kitten figures out how to get down
whether or not you ever show up" -Ani Difranco
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Love Each Other
I have had a "Godly-prodding" since very early Sunday morning to read John 15. I woke up thinking about these verses about the Vine and the Branches. For 3 days I have read this passage - but I don't think I have really gotten why God felt the need to wake me up at 4 am to tell me about it again. Still working on that one.
But in reading it today my "ADD" kicked in and I got a little side tracked on the chapters before John 15, mainly John 13. I love to highlight when I read...OK, I have to highlight!! I guess it is the way I learn; through using all my senses - some people can just read and it sticks. But I have to read, write it, touch it, and talk about it. Does that mean I am a slow leaner?!? Oh, who cares at this point in life...see there it is again...non-diagnosed ADD, so sorry.
Anyway John 13...I have verses 34 and 35 highlighted and even notes written beside it. So I have thought about this one before. But today it hit me in a brand new way. The beginning of the chapter is where Jesus washes the disciples feet. A most humbling, beautiful moment for the disciples. I think I would be much like Peter - "Jesus you really don't have to wash my feet." Peter is so awesome. Jesus said you don't get it, if I don't wash your feet you can't be a part of what I 'm doing. Then Peter says well in that case...wash my feet, hands and head!! He intentionally wanted to be about doing God's work. But later he denies Jesus not once, not twice, but 3 times! If I was around at the time, I immediately think about the labels I'd put on Peter, anger I'd have toward him. Then I read my highlighted verses later in the chapter.
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. - verse 34-35.
Jesus had spoke numerous times about how the disciples were to love their neighbors. But this verse was a little different, and revolutionary still today. Believers and followers of Christ must love each other (Christians love each other? Told you it was revolutionary)!!! But look again at Peter's comments, right after Jesus says this Peter is asking..."Lord, where are you going"??!!! Did he miss a key point because he was stuck? I can't help but to picture a child at camp the first day... the counselor is going over all the important stuff and you get to the most important rule for the cabin to remember for the week ahead and they ask in the middle of all that, "What's next?" You wonder...Did they just miss the key to living happily together with 11 other random people for a week, without mom and dad I might add?!?
Peter was stuck in a moment...Where was his Rabbi going? Jesus was leaving him physically yes, but first Jesus wanted him to get a key point in working with fellow followers, LOVE THEM. How often do we still get stuck today and we forget we are supposed to love other believers. All the time! A lot of times fellow believers are our worst enemies. Everyone is out doing what they think is the most important thing, then disagree someone else because their opinion is different. I honestly find it easier to love non-Christians more than Christians most days. This idea isn't new and wouldn't surprise Jesus. It was the religious that outraged Jesus most of the time! That is why he said love each other. Because how we love each other is judged by the world. Why would they want to join a group that doesn't love each other anyway?
I got a little out of sorts last Friday night at a Christian concert. There were many reasons, but this one I just can't seem to let go of and I've heard it a million times before. The concert was a fundraiser for a local adoption agency that was raising money for their new program that served orphan's in Ethiopia. I overheard the couples conversation behind me and then loudly the man protested, "Why can't they do something here in the US?" After years of hearing similar protest, I wanted to turn around and ask him what was he doing to make an impact in the US or have you considered domestic adoption? (Thanks to Marcus, I didn't!) We are a body!! How ridiculous would we look if we were all doing the same thing??
Jesus knew that there would be plenty that we would disagree on and he knew that we would judge each other, brutally sometimes. And yes many times Christians are way off base with the things of God. But the great theologian, Rich Mullins said it best, "It is not that some Christians are bad people. They are sometimes just wrong, very wrong."
And Jesus commands us to love them anyway!
But in reading it today my "ADD" kicked in and I got a little side tracked on the chapters before John 15, mainly John 13. I love to highlight when I read...OK, I have to highlight!! I guess it is the way I learn; through using all my senses - some people can just read and it sticks. But I have to read, write it, touch it, and talk about it. Does that mean I am a slow leaner?!? Oh, who cares at this point in life...see there it is again...non-diagnosed ADD, so sorry.
Anyway John 13...I have verses 34 and 35 highlighted and even notes written beside it. So I have thought about this one before. But today it hit me in a brand new way. The beginning of the chapter is where Jesus washes the disciples feet. A most humbling, beautiful moment for the disciples. I think I would be much like Peter - "Jesus you really don't have to wash my feet." Peter is so awesome. Jesus said you don't get it, if I don't wash your feet you can't be a part of what I 'm doing. Then Peter says well in that case...wash my feet, hands and head!! He intentionally wanted to be about doing God's work. But later he denies Jesus not once, not twice, but 3 times! If I was around at the time, I immediately think about the labels I'd put on Peter, anger I'd have toward him. Then I read my highlighted verses later in the chapter.
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. - verse 34-35.
Jesus had spoke numerous times about how the disciples were to love their neighbors. But this verse was a little different, and revolutionary still today. Believers and followers of Christ must love each other (Christians love each other? Told you it was revolutionary)!!! But look again at Peter's comments, right after Jesus says this Peter is asking..."Lord, where are you going"??!!! Did he miss a key point because he was stuck? I can't help but to picture a child at camp the first day... the counselor is going over all the important stuff and you get to the most important rule for the cabin to remember for the week ahead and they ask in the middle of all that, "What's next?" You wonder...Did they just miss the key to living happily together with 11 other random people for a week, without mom and dad I might add?!?
Peter was stuck in a moment...Where was his Rabbi going? Jesus was leaving him physically yes, but first Jesus wanted him to get a key point in working with fellow followers, LOVE THEM. How often do we still get stuck today and we forget we are supposed to love other believers. All the time! A lot of times fellow believers are our worst enemies. Everyone is out doing what they think is the most important thing, then disagree someone else because their opinion is different. I honestly find it easier to love non-Christians more than Christians most days. This idea isn't new and wouldn't surprise Jesus. It was the religious that outraged Jesus most of the time! That is why he said love each other. Because how we love each other is judged by the world. Why would they want to join a group that doesn't love each other anyway?
I got a little out of sorts last Friday night at a Christian concert. There were many reasons, but this one I just can't seem to let go of and I've heard it a million times before. The concert was a fundraiser for a local adoption agency that was raising money for their new program that served orphan's in Ethiopia. I overheard the couples conversation behind me and then loudly the man protested, "Why can't they do something here in the US?" After years of hearing similar protest, I wanted to turn around and ask him what was he doing to make an impact in the US or have you considered domestic adoption? (Thanks to Marcus, I didn't!) We are a body!! How ridiculous would we look if we were all doing the same thing??
Jesus knew that there would be plenty that we would disagree on and he knew that we would judge each other, brutally sometimes. And yes many times Christians are way off base with the things of God. But the great theologian, Rich Mullins said it best, "It is not that some Christians are bad people. They are sometimes just wrong, very wrong."
And Jesus commands us to love them anyway!
Monday, February 25, 2008
To blog or not to blog...here?
To all my readers...Yep all 4 of you!! ;^) I'm not sure if I will keep this site going?? I am/will be posting spiritual thoughts/stuggles (don't know why I just labeled that spiritual...everything is spiritual, right?!?), news worthy stuff, and devotional/study kinda of stuff on the Realities blog for Engage-Reality - so I'm not sure if I'll continue this one?!?
Who knows?
God is doing some mega overhaul in my life - so maybe this site needs to be where that stuggle plays out, maybe it needs to be where my very human-ness can be said (that is "saying" what needs to be "said" without filters...pretty much, what it has been all along!!), or maybe I'll change the title and this will be the New Adventures of Marcus and Christy with a Baby (and 6 animals...what were we thinking)??!!
So either way, stay tuned here and go visit http://www.engage-reality.blogspot.com/
Until next time...stay aware and be blessed!
And PS - Yes, rumor is true (if there were any?!?!) I AM writting a book! Marcus has encouraged and dared me enough. The outcome remains to be seen - apologizes ahead of time to the family...What am I saying, they don't read this...God knows they don't read BOOKS, so I'm safe!! Ha, Ha. :^) (Just joking if anyone of you are reading this!!!)
Who knows?
God is doing some mega overhaul in my life - so maybe this site needs to be where that stuggle plays out, maybe it needs to be where my very human-ness can be said (that is "saying" what needs to be "said" without filters...pretty much, what it has been all along!!), or maybe I'll change the title and this will be the New Adventures of Marcus and Christy with a Baby (and 6 animals...what were we thinking)??!!
So either way, stay tuned here and go visit http://www.engage-reality.blogspot.com/
Until next time...stay aware and be blessed!
And PS - Yes, rumor is true (if there were any?!?!) I AM writting a book! Marcus has encouraged and dared me enough. The outcome remains to be seen - apologizes ahead of time to the family...What am I saying, they don't read this...God knows they don't read BOOKS, so I'm safe!! Ha, Ha. :^) (Just joking if anyone of you are reading this!!!)
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
30-Day Sex Challenge
PLEASE...You KNOW I had to blog about this one!!! First you have to read the article:
YBOR CITY, Fla. - Florida pastor Paul Wirth wants his parishioners to make love -- a whole lot of love. The pastor for Relevant Church in Ybor City is challenging the couples in his congregation to get busy in bed every night for a month.
Wirth said the supposed 50 percent divorce rate is the reason behind the 30-Day Sex Challenge.
He said too many couples let the stress of jobs and daily life get in the way of intimacy. But there's a catch to the pastor's every day sex challenge -- it's for married couples only.
Unmarried people -- even if they are in a long-term relationship or living with someone -- are asked to abstain from sex for 30 days.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the MOST insensitive and ignorant thing I have heard the church come up with yet! Seriously, having more sex will decrease the divorce rate?!?! Humm. Yes the pastor is male. Don't get me wrong sex is great, we enjoy it as often as possible, but every day for 30 days. NO THANK YOU! Sex should NEVER be a challenge (again, male mindset here! - what do you win if you make it every day??) Sex is intiment, best when it is spontaneous, and sex is ONLY sex when it is mutual. (otherwise, we call that rape!)
Here is a list of why we find this insensitive:
- This has to set couples up for failure. Depending on sex to strengthen a relationship is empty. True sexuality is mind, soul, and body - it is spiritual. You have to have 3 “flames” to be completely satisfied. Let me explain with three Hebrew words:
Raya - Friendship. We have to enjoy each other, like each other's company, share things in common. Ahava – this is having a deep affection for someone (mind and heart) – this isn’t an emotion. It is a passionate commitment for this relationship. Dode – this is the sexual element of relationship. Notice it is the last flame. But it is not just the act of sex, it is knowing that sex with this one person is it, that it is for no one else and only this person can “turn you on” on that level. Biblically is not about having it all the time! To build a relationship on just one “Flame” is not going to lead to a healthy relationship. (Rob Bell explains this beautifully on Flame the Nooma.com series.)
- Men only need sex? That is insensitive and degrading to say men’s needs are obvious and women’s needs are complex. Guys think about that – don’t you need to be heard, to have your partner ask how your day went, don’t you want your wife to do something nice for you just because?? Men aren’t one dimensional.
- What about … that time? Women really don’t want to have sex everyday of the month if you know what I mean!!!
- Does consent go out the door for a challenge given by your pastor?? What if you are tired or just not in the mood? Are they advocating marital rape? (Remember if your partner says no and you keep saying yes; we’d call that date rape among our teens.)
- Check out the logo. Objectification, Objectification it is EVERYWHERE - high heels, short skirt, shinny smooth tan-fit legs all wrapped around a man - most men's fantasy. While the men are fully clothed – nothing special!! And the one’s having sex are professionally dress = successful. Need we go on….
Now for some reason I (Christy) am called opinionated. Now I do find that label offensive. Yep I have opinions, we all do. But I share mine when asked (unless you read my blog, then you chose to hear it!) and when I've thought through an issue. (But too often I have to hear other Christian’s random, thoughtless, disrespectful opinions - who think that just because I am a Christian too I share that thought. Don't be quick to paint me with the same brush!!) I am ALWAYS open to seeking first to understand. Now I have read this article several place watched a couple of videos and gone to the website. They do have a questionnaire that deals with more than sex for the couples to think about. But my question is do they have enough trained counselors on hand for all the issues that will come up just by having couples honestly answer these questions?? (This questionnaire almost ruined my relationship with Marcus early into our marriage!) So if you disagree with me or know more about the church I’d love to hear it. But if not, don’t call me opinionated call me passionate about healthy sexuality, sexuality the way God intended it not westernized thoughts. God bless Relevant Church for talking about sex and allowing their members to share their opinions (the church must talk openly about sex). In my opinion, this just wasn't the best way to reach stronger, healthier relationships - but we live in a world that wants to be entertained and shocked. But we are also to be in the world not of it!
So here is a bold "opinioned" statement:
Mega Churches Enough with your Shock Value Sermons - God doesn't need them or want them. Stop entertaining and try the Great "Suggestion" start making disciples of Christ, not yourselves!!
by Christy and Marcus
YBOR CITY, Fla. - Florida pastor Paul Wirth wants his parishioners to make love -- a whole lot of love. The pastor for Relevant Church in Ybor City is challenging the couples in his congregation to get busy in bed every night for a month.
Wirth said the supposed 50 percent divorce rate is the reason behind the 30-Day Sex Challenge.
He said too many couples let the stress of jobs and daily life get in the way of intimacy. But there's a catch to the pastor's every day sex challenge -- it's for married couples only.
Unmarried people -- even if they are in a long-term relationship or living with someone -- are asked to abstain from sex for 30 days.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the MOST insensitive and ignorant thing I have heard the church come up with yet! Seriously, having more sex will decrease the divorce rate?!?! Humm. Yes the pastor is male. Don't get me wrong sex is great, we enjoy it as often as possible, but every day for 30 days. NO THANK YOU! Sex should NEVER be a challenge (again, male mindset here! - what do you win if you make it every day??) Sex is intiment, best when it is spontaneous, and sex is ONLY sex when it is mutual. (otherwise, we call that rape!)
Here is a list of why we find this insensitive:
- This has to set couples up for failure. Depending on sex to strengthen a relationship is empty. True sexuality is mind, soul, and body - it is spiritual. You have to have 3 “flames” to be completely satisfied. Let me explain with three Hebrew words:
Raya - Friendship. We have to enjoy each other, like each other's company, share things in common. Ahava – this is having a deep affection for someone (mind and heart) – this isn’t an emotion. It is a passionate commitment for this relationship. Dode – this is the sexual element of relationship. Notice it is the last flame. But it is not just the act of sex, it is knowing that sex with this one person is it, that it is for no one else and only this person can “turn you on” on that level. Biblically is not about having it all the time! To build a relationship on just one “Flame” is not going to lead to a healthy relationship. (Rob Bell explains this beautifully on Flame the Nooma.com series.)
- Men only need sex? That is insensitive and degrading to say men’s needs are obvious and women’s needs are complex. Guys think about that – don’t you need to be heard, to have your partner ask how your day went, don’t you want your wife to do something nice for you just because?? Men aren’t one dimensional.
- What about … that time? Women really don’t want to have sex everyday of the month if you know what I mean!!!
- Does consent go out the door for a challenge given by your pastor?? What if you are tired or just not in the mood? Are they advocating marital rape? (Remember if your partner says no and you keep saying yes; we’d call that date rape among our teens.)
- Check out the logo. Objectification, Objectification it is EVERYWHERE - high heels, short skirt, shinny smooth tan-fit legs all wrapped around a man - most men's fantasy. While the men are fully clothed – nothing special!! And the one’s having sex are professionally dress = successful. Need we go on….
Now for some reason I (Christy) am called opinionated. Now I do find that label offensive. Yep I have opinions, we all do. But I share mine when asked (unless you read my blog, then you chose to hear it!) and when I've thought through an issue. (But too often I have to hear other Christian’s random, thoughtless, disrespectful opinions - who think that just because I am a Christian too I share that thought. Don't be quick to paint me with the same brush!!) I am ALWAYS open to seeking first to understand. Now I have read this article several place watched a couple of videos and gone to the website. They do have a questionnaire that deals with more than sex for the couples to think about. But my question is do they have enough trained counselors on hand for all the issues that will come up just by having couples honestly answer these questions?? (This questionnaire almost ruined my relationship with Marcus early into our marriage!) So if you disagree with me or know more about the church I’d love to hear it. But if not, don’t call me opinionated call me passionate about healthy sexuality, sexuality the way God intended it not westernized thoughts. God bless Relevant Church for talking about sex and allowing their members to share their opinions (the church must talk openly about sex). In my opinion, this just wasn't the best way to reach stronger, healthier relationships - but we live in a world that wants to be entertained and shocked. But we are also to be in the world not of it!
So here is a bold "opinioned" statement:
Mega Churches Enough with your Shock Value Sermons - God doesn't need them or want them. Stop entertaining and try the Great "Suggestion" start making disciples of Christ, not yourselves!!
by Christy and Marcus
Monday, February 4, 2008
It's Been One Week...
(That title would make a catchy little pop song!!)
It has been a week since I've left Foothills Alliance to Engage-Reality, and what a week it has been. We have about 70 or so books on our dinning room table ready to be posted on our site as soon as we have a store up and running. It is crazy how long it takes to write something totally "new" and "orginal" (there's really nothing new under the sun, but we try)! I guess my first book will be out in a couple of YEARS!! But the designing, writing, and creative process is always fun, though overwhelming at times. It can be a daunting task explaining your passion on a website! Marcus and I have been reading some fabulous books (most will be available on the web-site soon; I'm learning how to give shameless plugs). But they have really challenged us to question our faith, to put action to our beliefs, and all the studing has brought us closer together. Which has made me realize why I'm not a fan of men and women only bible studys...we need each other to make sense of this world and the kingdom. Men and women work best together, side by side! I need his prospective and he needs mine. OK that was a free random sidenote! But as excited my week has been, I've praying for friends and family that aren't going through exciting times right now. We know God works all things for good and one day it will be exciting to see how God worked, but going through the valley is never easy. So realities are all very different, but our God is the same.
It has been a week since I've left Foothills Alliance to Engage-Reality, and what a week it has been. We have about 70 or so books on our dinning room table ready to be posted on our site as soon as we have a store up and running. It is crazy how long it takes to write something totally "new" and "orginal" (there's really nothing new under the sun, but we try)! I guess my first book will be out in a couple of YEARS!! But the designing, writing, and creative process is always fun, though overwhelming at times. It can be a daunting task explaining your passion on a website! Marcus and I have been reading some fabulous books (most will be available on the web-site soon; I'm learning how to give shameless plugs). But they have really challenged us to question our faith, to put action to our beliefs, and all the studing has brought us closer together. Which has made me realize why I'm not a fan of men and women only bible studys...we need each other to make sense of this world and the kingdom. Men and women work best together, side by side! I need his prospective and he needs mine. OK that was a free random sidenote! But as excited my week has been, I've praying for friends and family that aren't going through exciting times right now. We know God works all things for good and one day it will be exciting to see how God worked, but going through the valley is never easy. So realities are all very different, but our God is the same.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Random Political Observations
I am exhausted of campaign commercials. Do they realize NO ONE is saying anything new? But I have been aware of my surroundings lately. I just wanted to note some of the "bizarre" thoughts I've come across: (hope not to offend too many)
- a few weeks ago there was talk about capitol punishment - lethal injection is now "cruel and unusual punishment." So when is MURDER of any kind NOT CRUEL AND UNUSUAL???!!!
- all this talk of "pro-life" now with the presidential campaign, enough already, I am convinced that NOT ONE candidate is truly pro-life. As a matter of fact, I don't know too many people that are. How can we value one life over another, somehow I don't think that is biblical. So it doesn't make much sense to be antiabortion and pro-death penalty. (Just my opinion)
- and praise God that we finally live in a country that we have options - a black man and a woman running for President. That's change. You do realize that little Declaration of Independence saying, "All men are created equal" really meant all WHITE MEN. And while I'm on that, way to go Gov Mark Sanford for bringing out the inequality SC government was founded on.
- please stop using Jesus Christ to be your ticket into the oval office! Just stop it.
- And would someone PLEASE tell Cracker Barrel that brown rice is NOT a vegetable!
Here's what I think about the election: THERE'S NEVER BEEN A SAVIOR UP ON CAPITOL HILL -
I’m so tired of these mortal men
with their hands on their wallets and their hearts full of sin
scared of their enemies, scared of their friends
and always running for re-election
so come to DC if it be thy will
because we’ve never had a savior on Capitol Hill
you can always trust the devil or a politician
to be the devil or a politician
but beyond that friends you’d best beware
‘cause at the Pentagon bar they’re an inseparable pair
and as long as the lobbyists are paying their bills
we’ll never have a savior on Capitol Hill
[Bridge]
all of our problems gonna disappear
when we can whisper right in that President’s ear
he could walk right across the reflection pool
in his combat boots and ten thousand dollar suit
you can render unto Caesar everything that’s his
you can trust in his power to come to your defense
it’s the way of the world, the way of the gun
it’s the trading of an evil for a lesser one
so don’t hold your breath or your vote until
you think you’ve finally found a savior up on Capitol Hill
-Thank you again, by Mr. Derek Webb
- a few weeks ago there was talk about capitol punishment - lethal injection is now "cruel and unusual punishment." So when is MURDER of any kind NOT CRUEL AND UNUSUAL???!!!
- all this talk of "pro-life" now with the presidential campaign, enough already, I am convinced that NOT ONE candidate is truly pro-life. As a matter of fact, I don't know too many people that are. How can we value one life over another, somehow I don't think that is biblical. So it doesn't make much sense to be antiabortion and pro-death penalty. (Just my opinion)
- and praise God that we finally live in a country that we have options - a black man and a woman running for President. That's change. You do realize that little Declaration of Independence saying, "All men are created equal" really meant all WHITE MEN. And while I'm on that, way to go Gov Mark Sanford for bringing out the inequality SC government was founded on.
- please stop using Jesus Christ to be your ticket into the oval office! Just stop it.
- And would someone PLEASE tell Cracker Barrel that brown rice is NOT a vegetable!
Here's what I think about the election: THERE'S NEVER BEEN A SAVIOR UP ON CAPITOL HILL -
I’m so tired of these mortal men
with their hands on their wallets and their hearts full of sin
scared of their enemies, scared of their friends
and always running for re-election
so come to DC if it be thy will
because we’ve never had a savior on Capitol Hill
you can always trust the devil or a politician
to be the devil or a politician
but beyond that friends you’d best beware
‘cause at the Pentagon bar they’re an inseparable pair
and as long as the lobbyists are paying their bills
we’ll never have a savior on Capitol Hill
[Bridge]
all of our problems gonna disappear
when we can whisper right in that President’s ear
he could walk right across the reflection pool
in his combat boots and ten thousand dollar suit
you can render unto Caesar everything that’s his
you can trust in his power to come to your defense
it’s the way of the world, the way of the gun
it’s the trading of an evil for a lesser one
so don’t hold your breath or your vote until
you think you’ve finally found a savior up on Capitol Hill
-Thank you again, by Mr. Derek Webb
Thursday, January 3, 2008
A New Year
A new year, time for a change. 2007 was the year for God to disturb life in our comfortable household. 2008 is the year for new things:
1. To put old ways of thinking aside
2. To bury parts of the past that had become so comfortable with, I didn't realize I was still holding on.
3. To separate Facts from Reality
4. To put Jesus' desires to action in our lives
5. A resignation!
6. And sooner or later...a baby!
God's doing a new thing!
1. To put old ways of thinking aside
2. To bury parts of the past that had become so comfortable with, I didn't realize I was still holding on.
3. To separate Facts from Reality
4. To put Jesus' desires to action in our lives
5. A resignation!
6. And sooner or later...a baby!
God's doing a new thing!
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