I finished reading a few articles about linguistics, specifically neuro- and psycholinguistics. I had never heard of these research endeavors before this evening, when I ran across them via a scholarship opportunity on Fastweb. I am fascinated by this world of biology and psychology that I have newly discovered. One of the most interesting articles dealt with lexical functional grammar (LFG).
This summer, God seems to be showing me a side of Him in much greater detail, creating in me much greater awe. I am three weeks in to my summer classes, meteorology and biology. They both require a considerable amount of reading. In meteorology, I read about how small visible light is (think micrometers) and about how an average of 4.6 million pounds of air pressure push against our roofs from the outside.* In biology, I read about buffers in our bodies that keep our pH balance around 7.4 and that we'd die if our pH ever reached 7.0 or 7.8. So what am I saying? The side of God I am talking about is his gracious acts of creativity and sustaining life.
Think about the knowledge involved in the sciences. The neurolinguists and psycholinguists I read about must be well informed in multiple disciplines in order to study the brain's activity regarding language. God created the brain, language, and the scientists who study them. Think of how intelligent God must be. God in His omniscience created all of life in its complexity that mankind is striving to figure out in our limited--comparatively paltry--knowledge.
I was sitting on the tailgate of our truck overlooking the field and thinking about how God made everything interact just right to sustain life. God knew exactly what conditions were required for you and me to inhale and exhale continuously and knew just what to include in a cell to enable it to recycle the materials it uses. Did you know higher than we can see in the atmosphere a layer of chemicals shields most of the UV and virtually all of the X-ray and gamma radiation from reaching the lower atmosphere and killing us? God arranged everything so-so, just the way He wanted it.
I am in awe of God the more and more I learn about the world He created. So many things could exterminate us, but you and I are still here. We can thank God for that. He is so gracious.**
*You may be wondering why our roofs don't collapse. It because the air pressure inside a house is equal to the air pressure outside it. Since air pressure exerts force in all directions, the amount of pressure against the roof is equalized to zero from air pressing down on it and air pressing up on it.
**These last few thoughts follow John Piper's line of thinking in his message "Don't Waste Your Life." You can listen to or read this message by downloading it free here, or you can purchase or read online the book Don't Waste Your Life here.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Prayer Request
Please pray for my sister. She is going through a hard time in her life. She is very busy working three jobs and taking a six-week Greek class. (For those of you unfamliar with Greek classes, they are very intense and have a heavy load. She will be learning what I learned in about 32 weeks in six weeks.) One of the companies she works for is Bath & Body Works. Their semi-annual sale is huge, and she is scheduled to work every available time she gave her boss(es). She is not getting much rest also. On top of all this, she is going through a desert spiritually. She is in a season in her life in which she feels far from God, and it worries her.
Again, please pray for her. Stress is overwhelming her. Pray that God will break her heart, if needed, and that His strength will empower her as she is weak. Pray that she will give her burdens to her Father and that she will trust what she knows is true during the spiritual desert in her life. Thank you very much for your prayers. God will bring her through this, even if it gets worse before it gets better, and He won't forget His daughter. Suffering produces endurance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-4).
Again, please pray for her. Stress is overwhelming her. Pray that God will break her heart, if needed, and that His strength will empower her as she is weak. Pray that she will give her burdens to her Father and that she will trust what she knows is true during the spiritual desert in her life. Thank you very much for your prayers. God will bring her through this, even if it gets worse before it gets better, and He won't forget His daughter. Suffering produces endurance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-4).
The Agony of Online Summer Classes
My summer so far has been rather quiet. I've spoke before of adjusting to living without a roommate or suitemates in the dorms, and that I've been working in the office instead of relaxing at home. Well, it all must come to an end eventually, doesn't it?
Well, it just did. Technically, it's still quiet, but it's not slow. My two online eight-week summer classes started this past Monday, and [whew!] are they intense! To stay on track, I need to read two chapters a week in each class. One of the classes is biology with a lab. My teacher informed me at the orientation today that the virtual labs can take up to two hours sometimes. Gross! Reading for biology takes me a while because I am taking notes on my computer as I read. I plan to comprehensively study my notes each week, so I can hopefully be adequately prepared and do well on the infamous, arduous tests.
Though I was more excited about my meteorology class than biology, I've found that I enjoy reading my biology textbook better than my meteorlogy one. I need to be reading the rest of Chapter 2 in my meteorology book right now, but I am so tired that reading sends me to sleep. (This is the agony part.) I am horrible when it comes to reading and not falling asleep. I used to be even worse than horrible, but I've improved some in the past year. It helps if I am not worn from the day when I open the book. Strange thing: I can read fiction with hardly a problem, but nonfiction simply kills me. My interest level in the subject doesn't seem to make a difference.
I am trying to be diligent in my studies though. I've read the first chapter of my biology book and over one and a half chapters of Weather Studies, and I've taken my first quiz for meteorology. The thing is I won't have much time to read tomorrow or Friday because I'm moving back home Friday. It'll all shake out though; I trust the Lord will work things out. I remember many times my freshman year circumstances looked bleak when it came to meeting assignment deadlines, but I'd pray for God's mercy and see what He'd do, and He'd open up more time for me that I normally wouldn't have. Believe me, trusting God with your schoolwork is the best thing you can do for your academic life and for yourself (like in dealing with stress). Don't misunderstand me, though, that doesn't mean you can procrastinate all you want and then expect God to get your homework done to turn in the next day. However, He is merciful and faithful.
So, if you plan on taking on summer classes at the college level anytime soon, remember to stay on top of things and read, read, READ! Read everything--the syllabus, all announcements online, assignments and their due dates, and, of course, your textbook! Try doing all that reading when you're fully conscious too; you'll comprehend much more that way and accomplish your work more efficiently.
Well, it just did. Technically, it's still quiet, but it's not slow. My two online eight-week summer classes started this past Monday, and [whew!] are they intense! To stay on track, I need to read two chapters a week in each class. One of the classes is biology with a lab. My teacher informed me at the orientation today that the virtual labs can take up to two hours sometimes. Gross! Reading for biology takes me a while because I am taking notes on my computer as I read. I plan to comprehensively study my notes each week, so I can hopefully be adequately prepared and do well on the infamous, arduous tests.
Though I was more excited about my meteorology class than biology, I've found that I enjoy reading my biology textbook better than my meteorlogy one. I need to be reading the rest of Chapter 2 in my meteorology book right now, but I am so tired that reading sends me to sleep. (This is the agony part.) I am horrible when it comes to reading and not falling asleep. I used to be even worse than horrible, but I've improved some in the past year. It helps if I am not worn from the day when I open the book. Strange thing: I can read fiction with hardly a problem, but nonfiction simply kills me. My interest level in the subject doesn't seem to make a difference.
I am trying to be diligent in my studies though. I've read the first chapter of my biology book and over one and a half chapters of Weather Studies, and I've taken my first quiz for meteorology. The thing is I won't have much time to read tomorrow or Friday because I'm moving back home Friday. It'll all shake out though; I trust the Lord will work things out. I remember many times my freshman year circumstances looked bleak when it came to meeting assignment deadlines, but I'd pray for God's mercy and see what He'd do, and He'd open up more time for me that I normally wouldn't have. Believe me, trusting God with your schoolwork is the best thing you can do for your academic life and for yourself (like in dealing with stress). Don't misunderstand me, though, that doesn't mean you can procrastinate all you want and then expect God to get your homework done to turn in the next day. However, He is merciful and faithful.
So, if you plan on taking on summer classes at the college level anytime soon, remember to stay on top of things and read, read, READ! Read everything--the syllabus, all announcements online, assignments and their due dates, and, of course, your textbook! Try doing all that reading when you're fully conscious too; you'll comprehend much more that way and accomplish your work more efficiently.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
"Dance the Night Away"
I am a closet dancer. It's 2:57 in the morning, and I just finished dancing to the first six songs on the second disc of The Essential Elvis Presley. I don't like to dance in public unless it is with someone, but when God is my only audience I like dancing very much. My style is typically interpretive dance, but with Elvis songs it varies. I am not a good dancer, but I have been told I have good rhythm. Dancing is not only fun but also a good source of exercise. It makes me feel good afterward. So the next time you're up around 3:00 A.M., just think I may be up dancing to "Viva Las Vegas."
Monday, May 12, 2008
What's Up
School is over, students have moved out of the dorms, and MBU staff is getting half-days off on Fridays. However, I'm still living in the dorms, preparing for a couple summer classes, and not working at all on Fridays.
My roommate Katie moved out this past Friday after staying for track. I must say that she had about three times the possessions I have in the room, so when she left the room became almost empty. Sounds echo now in the room.
Since I carried over my items from the apartment to the dorm, most of them are black, white, or red--that was the color scheme of my room in the apartment. I have a black comforter, black basket, black trash can, black TV, white microwave, black frame encompassing a black and white photo of Elvis, and a black poster of The Phantom of the Opera that I got at the Fox. My splash of color: a red Busch Stadium pennant. With the exception of a few items and what is in my drawers and closet, that is all I have in my room.
Besides adjusting the the "new" room, I've had to adjust to the ghost town atmosphere. Especially down Dink Marler and at the dorms, there just isn't many people around! My social life primarily consists of coworkers and office neighbors at work. I like them though, so I'm cool with that. :)
Anyway, since the letting out of school I've been living a much quieter and solitary life. It makes me look forward to going home on the weekends much more. As a side note, I've noticed that I appreciate and enjoy my parents more than usual these past three weeks.
That's all for now.
My roommate Katie moved out this past Friday after staying for track. I must say that she had about three times the possessions I have in the room, so when she left the room became almost empty. Sounds echo now in the room.
Since I carried over my items from the apartment to the dorm, most of them are black, white, or red--that was the color scheme of my room in the apartment. I have a black comforter, black basket, black trash can, black TV, white microwave, black frame encompassing a black and white photo of Elvis, and a black poster of The Phantom of the Opera that I got at the Fox. My splash of color: a red Busch Stadium pennant. With the exception of a few items and what is in my drawers and closet, that is all I have in my room.
Besides adjusting the the "new" room, I've had to adjust to the ghost town atmosphere. Especially down Dink Marler and at the dorms, there just isn't many people around! My social life primarily consists of coworkers and office neighbors at work. I like them though, so I'm cool with that. :)
Anyway, since the letting out of school I've been living a much quieter and solitary life. It makes me look forward to going home on the weekends much more. As a side note, I've noticed that I appreciate and enjoy my parents more than usual these past three weeks.
That's all for now.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
My Little Keepsake
I have an emotional attachment to My Little Golden Book About God. If you're not familiar, it is one of many small, hardcover books by Little Golden Books. Little Golden Books started in 1942, when the average cost of one of its books was 25 cents. Now the average cost is $2.99--still an excellent bargain. Its books are among the most popular children's books of all time. Rachel and I had two or three of these books growing up. In fact, we still have them. They're in my closet at home. My Little Golden Book About God by author and illustrator Eloise Wilkin is one of them. I remember the back cover and maybe the last page or two are missing. It is not special to me because my mom used to read it to me at night or because I stared at the pictures obsessively. It is special to me because it's sweet, and it takes me back to simple, pleasant times. I adore the front cover's illustration. The little girl has blonde hair just like Rachel and me. Little Golden Books teaches values; it's important to instill values while a child is young. I was reading about Little Golden Books on its web site and looking at all their books. I've decided I want to read Little Golden Books stories to my children.Photo from Little Golden Books
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Thank You, Food Service Consultants!
You know, not many people have good things to say about the cafe food. Some just don't like it. Others actually like the food but like to make fun of it even more. No matter how you slice it, it's the rear of many jokes on campus.
Not from me though! I like cafe food. Mmm! Call me crazy, but more times than not I am satisfied and have a full tummy. Sometimes I wonder if people are just too picky, whether it's the new glass dishware and silverware, the food selection, or the taste of the food (not that I expect a person to like everything our Food Service Consultants whip up). I do see a place where complaints over the food may be necessary--don't misunderstand me--but seriously, can we be thankful for the food we're eating in the cafe? Especially dorm students, can we be thankful for the "free" food we're eating? I like just getting my student I.D. scanned and not forking out money. I also like not having to prepare the food or clean after myself.
I say a hearty THANK YOU! to the Food Service Consultants and to those on the food committee. Thank you for putting thought into our meals, preparing our meals, cleaning our dishes, providing our drinks--and let's not exclude the ice cream machine!--and having a smile, at least part of the time. If I didn't have the cafe, I'd be living off of microwable food, snacks, and smoothies from the Perk all year long. Not only would that mean more money output, but it also would mean less substance input. I'd have to say, a girl needs substance on a regular basis. The closest I have to that at my dorm is vegetable beef soup. Do I hear an "amen"?
Not from me though! I like cafe food. Mmm! Call me crazy, but more times than not I am satisfied and have a full tummy. Sometimes I wonder if people are just too picky, whether it's the new glass dishware and silverware, the food selection, or the taste of the food (not that I expect a person to like everything our Food Service Consultants whip up). I do see a place where complaints over the food may be necessary--don't misunderstand me--but seriously, can we be thankful for the food we're eating in the cafe? Especially dorm students, can we be thankful for the "free" food we're eating? I like just getting my student I.D. scanned and not forking out money. I also like not having to prepare the food or clean after myself.
I say a hearty THANK YOU! to the Food Service Consultants and to those on the food committee. Thank you for putting thought into our meals, preparing our meals, cleaning our dishes, providing our drinks--and let's not exclude the ice cream machine!--and having a smile, at least part of the time. If I didn't have the cafe, I'd be living off of microwable food, snacks, and smoothies from the Perk all year long. Not only would that mean more money output, but it also would mean less substance input. I'd have to say, a girl needs substance on a regular basis. The closest I have to that at my dorm is vegetable beef soup. Do I hear an "amen"?
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Consider My Words
"The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." Luke 6:45
"You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." Matthew 12:34
Today it seemed the more I talked the more I made a mess of things. I'm learning more and more how my words hurt others. Some of you may be suprised to hear I am having a problem with my tongue because you rarely hear me speak, but do believe me, I do speak more often than I should sometimes, and I do tear down rather than build up at times.
I've been thinking frequently about the power of my words to destroy. I need to discipline my tongue. I think it is evidence of a heart problem. "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." What is in my heart?
I am sure if I ask God to search my heart and reveal the condition of my heart to me, His Spirit will help me through His Word.
"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Hebrews 4:12
I'd like to be like the man in Psalm 15:
[1] O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent?
Who shall dwell on your holy hill?
[2] He who walks blamelessly
and does what is right
and speaks truth in his heart;
[3] who does not slander with his tongue
and does no evil to his neighbor,
nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
[4] in whose eyes a vile person is despised,
but who honors those who fear the Lord;
who swears to his own hurt and does not change;
[5] who does not put out his money at interest
and does not take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things shall never be moved.
As a member of the body of Christ, my words should build up believers in Christ and shine Christ's light to unbelievers. As with any such problem, I must make an active effort. Passivity never solved anything. Furthermore, consistency is crucial. The last thing I need is to let my flesh gain power after making some progress. Understand me that I am not alone in my efforts--indeed, I can in no way "put to death the deeds of the body" in my own power. Romans 8:13 says, "...if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." God provides supernatural strength when I am weak (2 Corinthians 12:10).
If you're battling your flesh (which most likely you are, since your flesh is ever-present and ready to raise its ugly head), I encourage you to keep fighting in the faith of Jesus Christ with prayer and the Word of God. We can become more like Christ and less like our old selves together!
I look forward to the Day when the battles are all over, don't you?
Other Scriptures:
"My heart became hot within me. As I mused, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue:" Psalm 39:3
"There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18
"Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble." Proverbs 21:23
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." Proverbs 18:21
All Scriptures taken from the English Standard Version.
"You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." Matthew 12:34
Today it seemed the more I talked the more I made a mess of things. I'm learning more and more how my words hurt others. Some of you may be suprised to hear I am having a problem with my tongue because you rarely hear me speak, but do believe me, I do speak more often than I should sometimes, and I do tear down rather than build up at times.
I've been thinking frequently about the power of my words to destroy. I need to discipline my tongue. I think it is evidence of a heart problem. "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." What is in my heart?
I am sure if I ask God to search my heart and reveal the condition of my heart to me, His Spirit will help me through His Word.
"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." Hebrews 4:12
I'd like to be like the man in Psalm 15:
[1] O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent?
Who shall dwell on your holy hill?
[2] He who walks blamelessly
and does what is right
and speaks truth in his heart;
[3] who does not slander with his tongue
and does no evil to his neighbor,
nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
[4] in whose eyes a vile person is despised,
but who honors those who fear the Lord;
who swears to his own hurt and does not change;
[5] who does not put out his money at interest
and does not take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things shall never be moved.
As a member of the body of Christ, my words should build up believers in Christ and shine Christ's light to unbelievers. As with any such problem, I must make an active effort. Passivity never solved anything. Furthermore, consistency is crucial. The last thing I need is to let my flesh gain power after making some progress. Understand me that I am not alone in my efforts--indeed, I can in no way "put to death the deeds of the body" in my own power. Romans 8:13 says, "...if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." God provides supernatural strength when I am weak (2 Corinthians 12:10).
If you're battling your flesh (which most likely you are, since your flesh is ever-present and ready to raise its ugly head), I encourage you to keep fighting in the faith of Jesus Christ with prayer and the Word of God. We can become more like Christ and less like our old selves together!
I look forward to the Day when the battles are all over, don't you?
Other Scriptures:
"My heart became hot within me. As I mused, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue:" Psalm 39:3
"There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18
"Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble." Proverbs 21:23
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." Proverbs 18:21
All Scriptures taken from the English Standard Version.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Recap
Yes, once again I have not written in a while. I believe this is the longest span of time I have gone without posting. I need not further iterate that I am a slacker, however. Really, I should htink better of myself.
Much has happened since I last posted, naturally. February was an exciting month. First was the Give Me an Answer 2008 conference at Southern Seminary called Immortal Combat. Due to sleep deprivation, I was half-asleep during the entire conference, but of what I heard in the sessions, it was very good. Plus, we ate Chick-fil-A. I got to hang out with my sister at her apartment one night, and we skipped the last breakout session to hang out as well (during which I drunk vitamin water in an effort to wake up). Traveling with John and our friend Mark was fun too.
The day after we got back from Louisville, John and I (with 14 other Mobapeans) went to Herrin, IL, for a visitation in regards to a dear friend of ours. We all took him out to eat at Steak 'N' Shake and had a good time.
The week of Valentine's Day and the weeks leading up to it, I had the opportunity to help my cousin Shawn propose to his current fiancee. He lives in Arkansas and wanted to propose to her in private in St. Louis, so I was his logical contact. My roommate and my boyfriend helped me with the shopping and the decorating. Shawn and I discussed what the hotel room was to look like, what music was to play, how he was to get the keys, and what lies he had fed his girlfriend to keep it all secret. It was so much fun planning, lying (I know, that's bad.), and decorating! Shawn said the proposal went excellently, and I had the privilege of riding down to Fredericktown with the couple the next day. They will be married June 28th, Lord willing. Congratulations!
My Valentine's Day experience was unlike any other I've had. It is the first time I've had a boyfriend during the holiday, so that in itself provides a big enough difference. It lasted three days for John and me. Wednesday, the 13th, we went to the West County mall to get our pictures taken by The Picture People. We used a coupon John had printed from the Internet for a free 8X10 and a sheet of Valentine's Day wallets. The Picture People are fast, fun, and modern (check out their awesome computer monitors). Plus, we received our pictures hot off the printer a half hour after our sitting! On Thursday, actual Valentine's Day, John took me to McAlister's Deli--I dare say, one of my favorite places to eat--and John tried their awesome food and tea for the first time. Friday, John helped me decorate the hotel room and pull off the huge lie (an accomplice!). Before we left the room to give Shawn the keys, John switched out the CD with his own, on which he burned "Love Me Tender." I had told him that I wanted to dance with him to that song, so that is what we did. I'll write it for you: Awwww!! It was very special.
Rachel came home to visit the weekend after Shawn. That was special too. Aw, I love my sister!
Fast-forwarding to March, as fickle for me as the weather: Madness is surely not confined to NCAA. For my family and me, this month has been up and down. It begins on a high note--John's birthday! Then he came to visit the weekend spring break began and visited my church family for the first time!
Also that Saturday, my mom's foot started hurting, and she began to have a fever and chills that night. (This was after she received a positive report on her foot the week before.) Early the week of spring break my mom went to the doctor, and someone took a culture of the inside of her foot. She had an MRI that Friday, from which she found out that infection is in the bone. That is very serious. Her doctor admitted her into the hospital for a few days the following Monday. She returned home the Thursday before Easter and is now using an IV and can administer her medicine herself.
Besides my mom being out from pain killers during my week off, a mixture of good and bad circumstances shaped my spring break. It was by far not what I hoped it to be, but it honestly could have been worse (as circumstances always can be). Family tension was the cause of most of my ill emotions, not to mention my own disappointment in break being rather uneventful in regards to happy, exciting activities. Mom's birthday was on Thursday. The latter end of my break was especially painful, but I will spare you the highly personal details that would cost the dignity of beloved family to share and possibly expose them to criticism and consequential embarrassment.
Easter followed spring break. If you could hear the tone in my head as I write you would catch the happy exclamation with which I consider Easter. I was so excited for its coming! In the Hovis family, Easter is one of the two biggest holidays (Thanksgiving being the other one). We all get together at my uncle's house and eat, talk, and maybe even nap. This year, and for three years running, we had a wedding shower. Shawn and Megan's shower went very well. I got to ride to and from St. Louis with my sister and go to church with her, so that was great! On the way down, we got to spend extensive time together because we were in traffic for over an hour and a half on I-270 and Highway 40. Flooding, lanes closed, merging... [Sigh}
This week, I have relaxed better than usual though I haven't been sleeping well. It could possibly be because I have interrupted my sleeping pattern with hilarious dorm life. Tuesday night, after my roommate Katie and a friend of ours Kasia, who lives on our hall, exchanged lame comebacks and wrestled around midnight, Kasia and I watched an episode of The Office online then decorated the room with letters, stories, and post-its for Katie to find in the morning. Katie woke up at some point and eventually started laughing while Kasia was labeling her body parts. We labeled several items throughout the room and stuffed every shoe with an "I love you" post-it. He, he, he... we're proud of our work. I went to bed that night a little after four in the morning and got up at a quarter after twelve in the afternoon.
The next night, I "stole" Kasia's phone, and for a while she was very much concerned about where it was. I replanted it in the hall where it had originally fallen out of her pocket. She saw it and quickly put it together that I had put it there. I never openly admitted that it was me, but I did tell her to check her tone settings. That night I turned in at a much better one-thirty. I kept waking up during the night though and couldn't seem to get comfortable, so when I awoke at eight I was terribly tired. It is my habit of hitting snooze until 8:30, but instead of getting up at 8:30 for class when I should, I fell back asleep... Oops. I awoke again a little before nine, knowing that I'd for sure be late for class then, and decided to sleep in and actually rest. I finally got up around 10:35.
My theory is that I am not sleeping recooperatively because my sleeping is inconsistent, and I was not active over Easter and need to expend energy through physical activity. Therefore, today John and I went on a beautiful walk down Conway Road. It rained, but that's okay. I thoroughly enjoyed the warmer temperature (until it started raining and got cold), the plentiful bird songs, the elaborate houses, and, of course, John. Afterward, we talked to Dr. McClain, head of Religion, Ms. Fuquay, English professor and Director of EXCEL (my boss's boss), and Lisa Hessel, who works in PR. We had a nice, relaxing afternoon together.
Now the semester is winding down, papers and tests are piling up, baseball is starting, Lost is on break for five weeks (sad), and I am no longer living in long johns. I really do like spring.
Much has happened since I last posted, naturally. February was an exciting month. First was the Give Me an Answer 2008 conference at Southern Seminary called Immortal Combat. Due to sleep deprivation, I was half-asleep during the entire conference, but of what I heard in the sessions, it was very good. Plus, we ate Chick-fil-A. I got to hang out with my sister at her apartment one night, and we skipped the last breakout session to hang out as well (during which I drunk vitamin water in an effort to wake up). Traveling with John and our friend Mark was fun too.
The day after we got back from Louisville, John and I (with 14 other Mobapeans) went to Herrin, IL, for a visitation in regards to a dear friend of ours. We all took him out to eat at Steak 'N' Shake and had a good time.
The week of Valentine's Day and the weeks leading up to it, I had the opportunity to help my cousin Shawn propose to his current fiancee. He lives in Arkansas and wanted to propose to her in private in St. Louis, so I was his logical contact. My roommate and my boyfriend helped me with the shopping and the decorating. Shawn and I discussed what the hotel room was to look like, what music was to play, how he was to get the keys, and what lies he had fed his girlfriend to keep it all secret. It was so much fun planning, lying (I know, that's bad.), and decorating! Shawn said the proposal went excellently, and I had the privilege of riding down to Fredericktown with the couple the next day. They will be married June 28th, Lord willing. Congratulations!
My Valentine's Day experience was unlike any other I've had. It is the first time I've had a boyfriend during the holiday, so that in itself provides a big enough difference. It lasted three days for John and me. Wednesday, the 13th, we went to the West County mall to get our pictures taken by The Picture People. We used a coupon John had printed from the Internet for a free 8X10 and a sheet of Valentine's Day wallets. The Picture People are fast, fun, and modern (check out their awesome computer monitors). Plus, we received our pictures hot off the printer a half hour after our sitting! On Thursday, actual Valentine's Day, John took me to McAlister's Deli--I dare say, one of my favorite places to eat--and John tried their awesome food and tea for the first time. Friday, John helped me decorate the hotel room and pull off the huge lie (an accomplice!). Before we left the room to give Shawn the keys, John switched out the CD with his own, on which he burned "Love Me Tender." I had told him that I wanted to dance with him to that song, so that is what we did. I'll write it for you: Awwww!! It was very special.
Rachel came home to visit the weekend after Shawn. That was special too. Aw, I love my sister!
Fast-forwarding to March, as fickle for me as the weather: Madness is surely not confined to NCAA. For my family and me, this month has been up and down. It begins on a high note--John's birthday! Then he came to visit the weekend spring break began and visited my church family for the first time!
Also that Saturday, my mom's foot started hurting, and she began to have a fever and chills that night. (This was after she received a positive report on her foot the week before.) Early the week of spring break my mom went to the doctor, and someone took a culture of the inside of her foot. She had an MRI that Friday, from which she found out that infection is in the bone. That is very serious. Her doctor admitted her into the hospital for a few days the following Monday. She returned home the Thursday before Easter and is now using an IV and can administer her medicine herself.
Besides my mom being out from pain killers during my week off, a mixture of good and bad circumstances shaped my spring break. It was by far not what I hoped it to be, but it honestly could have been worse (as circumstances always can be). Family tension was the cause of most of my ill emotions, not to mention my own disappointment in break being rather uneventful in regards to happy, exciting activities. Mom's birthday was on Thursday. The latter end of my break was especially painful, but I will spare you the highly personal details that would cost the dignity of beloved family to share and possibly expose them to criticism and consequential embarrassment.
Easter followed spring break. If you could hear the tone in my head as I write you would catch the happy exclamation with which I consider Easter. I was so excited for its coming! In the Hovis family, Easter is one of the two biggest holidays (Thanksgiving being the other one). We all get together at my uncle's house and eat, talk, and maybe even nap. This year, and for three years running, we had a wedding shower. Shawn and Megan's shower went very well. I got to ride to and from St. Louis with my sister and go to church with her, so that was great! On the way down, we got to spend extensive time together because we were in traffic for over an hour and a half on I-270 and Highway 40. Flooding, lanes closed, merging... [Sigh}
This week, I have relaxed better than usual though I haven't been sleeping well. It could possibly be because I have interrupted my sleeping pattern with hilarious dorm life. Tuesday night, after my roommate Katie and a friend of ours Kasia, who lives on our hall, exchanged lame comebacks and wrestled around midnight, Kasia and I watched an episode of The Office online then decorated the room with letters, stories, and post-its for Katie to find in the morning. Katie woke up at some point and eventually started laughing while Kasia was labeling her body parts. We labeled several items throughout the room and stuffed every shoe with an "I love you" post-it. He, he, he... we're proud of our work. I went to bed that night a little after four in the morning and got up at a quarter after twelve in the afternoon.
The next night, I "stole" Kasia's phone, and for a while she was very much concerned about where it was. I replanted it in the hall where it had originally fallen out of her pocket. She saw it and quickly put it together that I had put it there. I never openly admitted that it was me, but I did tell her to check her tone settings. That night I turned in at a much better one-thirty. I kept waking up during the night though and couldn't seem to get comfortable, so when I awoke at eight I was terribly tired. It is my habit of hitting snooze until 8:30, but instead of getting up at 8:30 for class when I should, I fell back asleep... Oops. I awoke again a little before nine, knowing that I'd for sure be late for class then, and decided to sleep in and actually rest. I finally got up around 10:35.
My theory is that I am not sleeping recooperatively because my sleeping is inconsistent, and I was not active over Easter and need to expend energy through physical activity. Therefore, today John and I went on a beautiful walk down Conway Road. It rained, but that's okay. I thoroughly enjoyed the warmer temperature (until it started raining and got cold), the plentiful bird songs, the elaborate houses, and, of course, John. Afterward, we talked to Dr. McClain, head of Religion, Ms. Fuquay, English professor and Director of EXCEL (my boss's boss), and Lisa Hessel, who works in PR. We had a nice, relaxing afternoon together.
Now the semester is winding down, papers and tests are piling up, baseball is starting, Lost is on break for five weeks (sad), and I am no longer living in long johns. I really do like spring.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
I Went Walking in a Winter Wonderland!
It's snowing!
No, it's not the first time it's snowed this winter here in St. Louis, but this is the first time I've been up here for an actual winter storm this year. The last time STL got over six inches of snow, I was down in Fredericktown.
The snow came around noon. After Chapel, I went to lunch and then to work. My boss was just about to leave when I got there and she instructed me to go back to my dorm where it's warm and safe. And so I did. But before I got all comfy in my lounge pants, I headed back outside to take some pictures of the campus for all of you. How nice of me...
Pillsbury Huff parking lot around 1:30 p.m.
The way it has worked out, by my not getting to go home this weekend and all, I will have lived in St. Louis for a consecutive month after next
weekend. (I am going to Louisville next weekend
for "Immortal Combat," the Give Me an Answer 2008 Conference at Southern Seminary, where I will get to see my sister!) That's a while for me
because I return home most weekends to see my parents and go to and help out with church. I was supposed to help out with the preschoolers in church this weekend, but it looks like that isn't going to happen. Instead, lo and behold, I am going to a wedding. A couple my sister is better acquainted with than myself will marry at FBC-Fenton this Saturday. John and I will attend.
Everyone stay warm! Thank God for the heat and shelter we have.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Switch It Up!
Exciting news! My roommate and I have rearranged our dorm room for this semester. It's pretty cool, I must say; Katie is so creative! We are going to add fun decor in the near future, and I plan on tidying up my "loose ends" as far as organization goes. I would like to share the finished product with you, for I am sure you'll like it!
Doing creative things with your pre-furnished room is one of the fun parts about living on campus. Having an awesome roommate helps--which I have--and making the most of your space. Did I mention that it is "free" space? I put the word free in quotations because it technically is added onto a student's account as room and board, but my schooling is paid for. I have the pleasure of not having to write out a check for rent each month like I'd have to if I lived in an apartment.
Dormitories have their pros and cons like just about anything else. Right now, I am very much enjoying the pros, too much to even care about the cons.
Doing creative things with your pre-furnished room is one of the fun parts about living on campus. Having an awesome roommate helps--which I have--and making the most of your space. Did I mention that it is "free" space? I put the word free in quotations because it technically is added onto a student's account as room and board, but my schooling is paid for. I have the pleasure of not having to write out a check for rent each month like I'd have to if I lived in an apartment.
Dormitories have their pros and cons like just about anything else. Right now, I am very much enjoying the pros, too much to even care about the cons.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
"As Unto the Lord"
Well, here I am, up too late again. I ate almost a whole bag of Peanut M&M's late this afternoon, and then around 10 or so, I had a vanilla yogurt and Reese's concrete from Oberweis, which a friend on my hall delivered to me while I was taking my online Greek quiz. All the sugar gave me a bundle of energy that I released through dancing while talking to my boyfriend on the phone. I still need to shower and clean my teeth. Let me tell you, I will most likely feel tired in my classes tomorrow.
I am a strong believer in multi-tasking. Though concerning some things I am a terrible multi-tasker, I like to try to efficiently use my time. It is normal for me to talk on the phone, use IM, listen to music, and take a Greek quiz simultaneously. Even right now, I am writing this post, listening to Francis Chan (his message from Passion '07), and talking to my friend Scott on IM.
You might think that this is a great way for me to get ahead. Before now, I might have agreed with you. However, I must suggest this idea to you: What if all this multi-tasking is really inefficient time management? In other words, how much quality effort could I actually invest in each activity unless I do them in isolation from all the other ones?
I am not sure what the answer to these questions is for me. This is because of my motive in doing several things at once. Yes, it does save time, but another reason I have other things going on while taking quizzes is for the sake of "needing" to have something else going on. My mom is the same way. I have the ability to only take the quiz, but I usually prefer to have some sort of accompaniment.
I still wonder, though, whether the quality of my work suffers. I should give 100 percent to whatever I am doing. I should do everything as unto the Lord, the Scriptures instruct. Hmm... when I think of doing something unto the Lord, I imagine myself devoting undivided attention toward an activity, doing it to the best of my ability, and relying on Christ.
I am thinking I should power down.
I am a strong believer in multi-tasking. Though concerning some things I am a terrible multi-tasker, I like to try to efficiently use my time. It is normal for me to talk on the phone, use IM, listen to music, and take a Greek quiz simultaneously. Even right now, I am writing this post, listening to Francis Chan (his message from Passion '07), and talking to my friend Scott on IM.
You might think that this is a great way for me to get ahead. Before now, I might have agreed with you. However, I must suggest this idea to you: What if all this multi-tasking is really inefficient time management? In other words, how much quality effort could I actually invest in each activity unless I do them in isolation from all the other ones?
I am not sure what the answer to these questions is for me. This is because of my motive in doing several things at once. Yes, it does save time, but another reason I have other things going on while taking quizzes is for the sake of "needing" to have something else going on. My mom is the same way. I have the ability to only take the quiz, but I usually prefer to have some sort of accompaniment.
I still wonder, though, whether the quality of my work suffers. I should give 100 percent to whatever I am doing. I should do everything as unto the Lord, the Scriptures instruct. Hmm... when I think of doing something unto the Lord, I imagine myself devoting undivided attention toward an activity, doing it to the best of my ability, and relying on Christ.
I am thinking I should power down.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Joy from God by the Holy Spirit and the Little Book of Colossians
Okay, that special treat I promised you will have to wait another post. I wanted to write something really quick while it is still sort of January 1st.
Last night, I was feeling blue after having been inside too long and bored. I started thinking thoughts like, What I am I doing here? What's the purpose of all this? I picked up my Bible, and as I was opening it I said a quick prayer to God that was packed with sincerity and desperateness. I asked Him to show me my purpose, my worth, the fact that I wasn't just killing time and nothing more during Christmas break and the rest of my life... and He showed me. Boy, did He show me.
Considering the state I was in, it made sense to me to look up faithfulness and related words in the concordance. My search brought me to Colossians 1:23, found under faith. I read the passage containing the verse and was filled with joy. I kept reading--the same passage and passages after it until I stopped somewhere in Chapter 3. I loved it! God knew just what I needed to read. It wasn't just words on paper, however. It was--and is--alive! God literally showed me the answer to my prayer and so encouraged me that He filled me with increasing joy through the Holy Spirit. The Word is the living Word.
Paul starts out in Colossians 1:15 painting a beautiful picture of Christ in His preeminence. Then he addresses me about faithfulness. He moves on to talk about the joy he himself has in suffering, just as Christ rejoiced in His suffering. Finally, in Chapter 3, he writes of our life in Christ and taking on our new identity, which is Christ Himself.
This is what God showed me about faithfulness to Christ:
"[21] And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, [22] he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him,"--and now the part that got me, the answer--"[23] if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister."
Another part that stood out to me was verses 28 and 29, where Paul is talking about his ministry: "Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me."
Also note 2:6-7: "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
In Chapter 3, God provided me a remedy, rather a preventive, for my troubles. "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth" (vv. 1-2).
You just have to read it. All of it. Colossians is an incredible book of the Bible. It's four chapters, so it's short, and the amount of time it takes to read depends on God and the reader. I'll make it very easy for you. Just click here.
You may have read Colossians before, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't read it again. I've read Colossians 1 before, but this time when I read it, heart open desperate for an answer, it was fresh, as if I had never read it before. It was illumination by the Holy Spirit. I need to "keep on keeping on."
Praise God for His faithfulness!... And His love, grace, patience, joy, kindness, compassion, wisdom, knowledge, good will, justice, humor, majesty, power...
Last night, I was feeling blue after having been inside too long and bored. I started thinking thoughts like, What I am I doing here? What's the purpose of all this? I picked up my Bible, and as I was opening it I said a quick prayer to God that was packed with sincerity and desperateness. I asked Him to show me my purpose, my worth, the fact that I wasn't just killing time and nothing more during Christmas break and the rest of my life... and He showed me. Boy, did He show me.
Considering the state I was in, it made sense to me to look up faithfulness and related words in the concordance. My search brought me to Colossians 1:23, found under faith. I read the passage containing the verse and was filled with joy. I kept reading--the same passage and passages after it until I stopped somewhere in Chapter 3. I loved it! God knew just what I needed to read. It wasn't just words on paper, however. It was--and is--alive! God literally showed me the answer to my prayer and so encouraged me that He filled me with increasing joy through the Holy Spirit. The Word is the living Word.
Paul starts out in Colossians 1:15 painting a beautiful picture of Christ in His preeminence. Then he addresses me about faithfulness. He moves on to talk about the joy he himself has in suffering, just as Christ rejoiced in His suffering. Finally, in Chapter 3, he writes of our life in Christ and taking on our new identity, which is Christ Himself.
This is what God showed me about faithfulness to Christ:
"[21] And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, [22] he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him,"--and now the part that got me, the answer--"[23] if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister."
Another part that stood out to me was verses 28 and 29, where Paul is talking about his ministry: "Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me."
Also note 2:6-7: "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
In Chapter 3, God provided me a remedy, rather a preventive, for my troubles. "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth" (vv. 1-2).
You just have to read it. All of it. Colossians is an incredible book of the Bible. It's four chapters, so it's short, and the amount of time it takes to read depends on God and the reader. I'll make it very easy for you. Just click here.
You may have read Colossians before, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't read it again. I've read Colossians 1 before, but this time when I read it, heart open desperate for an answer, it was fresh, as if I had never read it before. It was illumination by the Holy Spirit. I need to "keep on keeping on."
Praise God for His faithfulness!... And His love, grace, patience, joy, kindness, compassion, wisdom, knowledge, good will, justice, humor, majesty, power...
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Christmas Break
Week 3 of my Christmas Break has just begun. I would have to say that I am not as eager to return to school as I was last year. The longer I am down here, the more I want to stay in the country where space and quietness are at their peak. I have finished one of the two books I had set out to complete. My sister came to visit over Christmas, which is definitely a highlight of my break. This past week was rough though. I've cried more than I have in months, mostly during an anxiety attack Christmas morning that left me feeling ill the rest of the day. Family stresses and not registering for an online biology class in time were the other culprits in dampening the holiday season. I am learning I need to adamently claim my rights as a child of God and not let such circumstances get me down.
"Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God." Psalm 42:5-6, 11
I have a special treat for my next post. He, he, he. Happy New Year, everyone!
"Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God." Psalm 42:5-6, 11
I have a special treat for my next post. He, he, he. Happy New Year, everyone!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
1 Timothy 4:6-16
6 If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness; 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. 10 For to this end we toil and strive, [2] because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.
11 Command and teach these things. 12 Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. (copied from ESV's website)
I read this passage twice recently, and it encouraged me a great deal in regards to my life group. Though it seems as though my leadership in the group is a small thing, I know that God has given it to me. Verses 12-14 meant a lot to me especially. Being only twenty, I know how it is to not be looked upon as having any wisdom or insight. When Paul says "let no one despise you for your youth," he is saying to let our behaviors exemplify Christ by "[setting] the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" (v. 12). Even if we aren't supported (not that I am not supported), we can persist in our ministry knowing that God has given it to us and so will enable us.
11 Command and teach these things. 12 Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you. 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. 16 Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers. (copied from ESV's website)
I read this passage twice recently, and it encouraged me a great deal in regards to my life group. Though it seems as though my leadership in the group is a small thing, I know that God has given it to me. Verses 12-14 meant a lot to me especially. Being only twenty, I know how it is to not be looked upon as having any wisdom or insight. When Paul says "let no one despise you for your youth," he is saying to let our behaviors exemplify Christ by "[setting] the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" (v. 12). Even if we aren't supported (not that I am not supported), we can persist in our ministry knowing that God has given it to us and so will enable us.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Spur of the Moment...
I am finishing up my lunch break and thinking about something new--or maybe something old that I've forgotten.
The past couple days I have been stressed to what I think is near my limit. I feel as though I am mentally exhausted. For about a third of the semester, beginning around mid-term, I slacked. Now, I am paying the price of my bad decisions. I have three papers due in my theology class (two of which are book reports), a research paper in my cross-cultural class (for which I am going to turn in the rsearch paper I wrote in English Comp. II to alleviate some anxiety), a paper over a cultural activity for World Literary Types (for which I am going to tweak the cultural activity paper I wrote for my cross-cultural class earlier this semester), and an audio script for my final exam in Writing for Audio and Video. Package all that with my ever-present Greek work--which I forecast to become the ever-present "thorn in my side"--and you have one stressed out university sophomore.
Then this moment came. I was sitting at a desk in the EXCEL Office, where I work, with my head resting on my arms. I was thinking yet again how stressed out I am, and then that something new--or something old forgotten--passed in my mind. Paraphrased, "You're looking at your circumstances too much. You need to look at God, and you'll circumstances will shrink." I gazed upon the beauty and glory of Christ, and, indeed, the looming assignments did shrink to normal size. The stress is here in me right now as I write, however; but I do not feel as though a wire in my mind is going to snap from the pressure anymore.
Afterward, I thought realized something else--something equally profound if not more: I am writing a paper in theology about Knowing God (J.I. Packer) in which I wrote that knowing God is everything--it is the most important thing we can do--and here I am stressing uncontrallably as if there is no God in heaven. He is beautiful and the only One who ultimately matters. It is so easy to distract ourselves with meaningless problems of this world, but if we really know God--if I really know God--why bother distracting ourselves in the first place? He is so infinitely marvelous that how could we ever take our eyes off Him? Our attention off Him? Nothing else is worth more of our time, energy, life... However, the truth is, that as long as we live on this earth, we are going to distract ourselves because we are made of flesh and blood, and we constantly battle our human nature. When you really contemplate it--perhaps it is not so much a hidden understanding but an obvious one we Christians take for granted--without Christ, we'd be worse than dirt. Before Christianity, we don't even want God or His ways. How dare we! God, who is holy and glorious, is the only One who is good (Mark 10:18), and we don't give Him the time of day.
So, I'm sure that after redirecting my thoughts and reprioritizing, I will be much better off.
The past couple days I have been stressed to what I think is near my limit. I feel as though I am mentally exhausted. For about a third of the semester, beginning around mid-term, I slacked. Now, I am paying the price of my bad decisions. I have three papers due in my theology class (two of which are book reports), a research paper in my cross-cultural class (for which I am going to turn in the rsearch paper I wrote in English Comp. II to alleviate some anxiety), a paper over a cultural activity for World Literary Types (for which I am going to tweak the cultural activity paper I wrote for my cross-cultural class earlier this semester), and an audio script for my final exam in Writing for Audio and Video. Package all that with my ever-present Greek work--which I forecast to become the ever-present "thorn in my side"--and you have one stressed out university sophomore.
Then this moment came. I was sitting at a desk in the EXCEL Office, where I work, with my head resting on my arms. I was thinking yet again how stressed out I am, and then that something new--or something old forgotten--passed in my mind. Paraphrased, "You're looking at your circumstances too much. You need to look at God, and you'll circumstances will shrink." I gazed upon the beauty and glory of Christ, and, indeed, the looming assignments did shrink to normal size. The stress is here in me right now as I write, however; but I do not feel as though a wire in my mind is going to snap from the pressure anymore.
Afterward, I thought realized something else--something equally profound if not more: I am writing a paper in theology about Knowing God (J.I. Packer) in which I wrote that knowing God is everything--it is the most important thing we can do--and here I am stressing uncontrallably as if there is no God in heaven. He is beautiful and the only One who ultimately matters. It is so easy to distract ourselves with meaningless problems of this world, but if we really know God--if I really know God--why bother distracting ourselves in the first place? He is so infinitely marvelous that how could we ever take our eyes off Him? Our attention off Him? Nothing else is worth more of our time, energy, life... However, the truth is, that as long as we live on this earth, we are going to distract ourselves because we are made of flesh and blood, and we constantly battle our human nature. When you really contemplate it--perhaps it is not so much a hidden understanding but an obvious one we Christians take for granted--without Christ, we'd be worse than dirt. Before Christianity, we don't even want God or His ways. How dare we! God, who is holy and glorious, is the only One who is good (Mark 10:18), and we don't give Him the time of day.
So, I'm sure that after redirecting my thoughts and reprioritizing, I will be much better off.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Thank You, Intro to Cross-Cultural Communication!
Sometimes a class that is easy to take for granted will prove itself worthwhile. Such is the case with my Intro to Cross-Cultural Communication class with Mr. Killebrew. I took it because it is a general education requirement, and it had potential to enrich my interest in world cultures. Indeed it did.
The mid-term assignment was to engage in a cross-cultural activity and write about it. For my cross-cultural activity, I went with my "cross-cultural buddy," Eden, who is from China, to St. Louis Chinese Lutheran Church. I was already interested in Chinese culture, but this experience made me want to go to China and immerse myself in its culture more than ever. Chinese people are beautiful and precious. I appreciate Eden and her willingness to let me tag along with her, her friends, and family for the celebration of the Chinese moon cake festival on Saturday and the church service on Sunday.
While I was working on my mid-term paper I thought of the idea of having Eden teach me Chinese. I postponed my work to send her an email about it. Shortly after, she wrote back saying she'd like to. I was so excited! I want to be able to read and write in Chinese, and God has given me the opportunity through Eden to do them. I believe I will go to China someday, and learning the language could be preparation for my trip.
MBU is offering a Chinese class some time. Because I am taking baby Greek (Elementary Koine I), I do not think it would be wise for me to take the course. If you would like to learn the Chinese language, however, contact Dr. Han, Humanities chair and English professor, for more information.
I am so thankful for the experience and the encouragement to learn more about heritage and cultures from Intro to Cross-Cultural Communication. I think it is Mr. Ray Killebrew's best class. I can honestly say that learning about a particular culture is best done by experiencing the culture yourself.
The mid-term assignment was to engage in a cross-cultural activity and write about it. For my cross-cultural activity, I went with my "cross-cultural buddy," Eden, who is from China, to St. Louis Chinese Lutheran Church. I was already interested in Chinese culture, but this experience made me want to go to China and immerse myself in its culture more than ever. Chinese people are beautiful and precious. I appreciate Eden and her willingness to let me tag along with her, her friends, and family for the celebration of the Chinese moon cake festival on Saturday and the church service on Sunday.
While I was working on my mid-term paper I thought of the idea of having Eden teach me Chinese. I postponed my work to send her an email about it. Shortly after, she wrote back saying she'd like to. I was so excited! I want to be able to read and write in Chinese, and God has given me the opportunity through Eden to do them. I believe I will go to China someday, and learning the language could be preparation for my trip.
MBU is offering a Chinese class some time. Because I am taking baby Greek (Elementary Koine I), I do not think it would be wise for me to take the course. If you would like to learn the Chinese language, however, contact Dr. Han, Humanities chair and English professor, for more information.
I am so thankful for the experience and the encouragement to learn more about heritage and cultures from Intro to Cross-Cultural Communication. I think it is Mr. Ray Killebrew's best class. I can honestly say that learning about a particular culture is best done by experiencing the culture yourself.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
What Has Happened?!
I have not blogged for over a month! My apologies to my devoted blog fans. I have become busy, but that is no excuse. Has busyness ever stopped me before? No! I have been quite tired many times that I've thought about posting, but that again is no excuse. Have I been tired before before writing? Yes! I pledge this day that neither tiredness nor busyness shall hinder me from my grand, privileged duty to serve my beloved audience and to make my opnions and experiences known!
Anyway, now that I've got 100 percent lameness out of me, allow me to attempt to fill you in on what's happened since September 1st and fail.
...
Well, it seems much has happened. Next week is mid-term--man, has the time flown by! School is school; I don't have much to say about it except that I am taking baby Greek, a class I've wanted to take since about my junior year of high school.
...
Yeah, academics definitely isn't at the top of my priority list anymore. I like the new freedom I have from feeling "enslaved" by my studies. It is an answer to a prayer. Hmm, what are some more important things?...
My Relationship with God
I'll be late for class almost anytime on account of Chapel. (This semester, it is World Literary Types I'd be late for. Sorry, Dr. Han!) I count any spiritual thing that could happen in Chapel more important than school, so if I have the opportunity to continue praising God after students are dismissed, I will most likely take it. Another example of my relationship with God being more important than academics is that I give my religion classes priority over my other classes.
My Relationship with John
Yep, I esteem John over academics. That's a no-brainer, right? Usually, if you find John, you will find me.
My Relationships with Other People
I have come to learn that people are very important. In fact, they are most important after God. People are interesting, diverse, enjoyable, sometimes captivating, and loved by God. They should be loved by people too. ;)
Sleep
Yes, unfortunately, sleep sometimes takes priority over academics. Most of time, it takes it accidentally.
...
What has happened over the past month? I continue to grow in Christ and grow closer to John. Both of these actions have manifested themselves in different ways. John adds more and more pictures to our photo album on Facebook as evidence.
This is so bad. The only thing I can think of in particular is my birthday. The Wednesday before my birthday on September 22, John surprised me with a trip to the Laumeier Sculpture Park, a picnic at the park with food from The Perk, and a copy of The Count of Monte Cristo, my favorite novel. My favorite part of the park was the Nature Walk. Though it was a hot day, it was still beautiful, and I thoroughly enjoyed the time we got to spend together. On my birthday, my parents took me to the Olive Garden in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where my sister surprised me with a visit. I also received my gifts there. After eating, we all went shopping. It was inside Target that I listened to a voicemail from John in which he, Katie (my roommate), Clayton, and maybe others sung "Happy Birthday" to me. I loved it. The last segment of my birthday occurred Sunday evening when I arrived at my dorm room. Katie told me "happy birthday" when I entered and had balloons tied to the end of my bed and a chocolate cake and a card sitting on my bed. Mmm! The cake was delicious, and the card was cute! Katie is a wonderful roommate, by the way.
...
Well, that is my terrible attempt to recapitulate what has happened in the past month. I may throw in more details in future posts.
Anyway, now that I've got 100 percent lameness out of me, allow me to attempt to fill you in on what's happened since September 1st and fail.
...
Well, it seems much has happened. Next week is mid-term--man, has the time flown by! School is school; I don't have much to say about it except that I am taking baby Greek, a class I've wanted to take since about my junior year of high school.
...
Yeah, academics definitely isn't at the top of my priority list anymore. I like the new freedom I have from feeling "enslaved" by my studies. It is an answer to a prayer. Hmm, what are some more important things?...
My Relationship with God
I'll be late for class almost anytime on account of Chapel. (This semester, it is World Literary Types I'd be late for. Sorry, Dr. Han!) I count any spiritual thing that could happen in Chapel more important than school, so if I have the opportunity to continue praising God after students are dismissed, I will most likely take it. Another example of my relationship with God being more important than academics is that I give my religion classes priority over my other classes.
My Relationship with John
Yep, I esteem John over academics. That's a no-brainer, right? Usually, if you find John, you will find me.
My Relationships with Other People
I have come to learn that people are very important. In fact, they are most important after God. People are interesting, diverse, enjoyable, sometimes captivating, and loved by God. They should be loved by people too. ;)
Sleep
Yes, unfortunately, sleep sometimes takes priority over academics. Most of time, it takes it accidentally.
...
What has happened over the past month? I continue to grow in Christ and grow closer to John. Both of these actions have manifested themselves in different ways. John adds more and more pictures to our photo album on Facebook as evidence.
This is so bad. The only thing I can think of in particular is my birthday. The Wednesday before my birthday on September 22, John surprised me with a trip to the Laumeier Sculpture Park, a picnic at the park with food from The Perk, and a copy of The Count of Monte Cristo, my favorite novel. My favorite part of the park was the Nature Walk. Though it was a hot day, it was still beautiful, and I thoroughly enjoyed the time we got to spend together. On my birthday, my parents took me to the Olive Garden in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where my sister surprised me with a visit. I also received my gifts there. After eating, we all went shopping. It was inside Target that I listened to a voicemail from John in which he, Katie (my roommate), Clayton, and maybe others sung "Happy Birthday" to me. I loved it. The last segment of my birthday occurred Sunday evening when I arrived at my dorm room. Katie told me "happy birthday" when I entered and had balloons tied to the end of my bed and a chocolate cake and a card sitting on my bed. Mmm! The cake was delicious, and the card was cute! Katie is a wonderful roommate, by the way.
...
Well, that is my terrible attempt to recapitulate what has happened in the past month. I may throw in more details in future posts.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
A Summary (or perhaps, A Conclusion of "Change")
I am two weeks into the fall-'07 semester and could not feel further from myself. Never have I gone through several changes at once like I have this August. Somewhere in the midst of these changes I have lost my familiar self.
My sister, as you probably know, moved to Indiana August 9. That was an emotional time for me and many others. I am experiencing life without my sister for the first time in a long while. I am adjusting.
The first day of classes here at MBU was August 20. Coming to terms with the reality of summer break at its close is a big enough switch... but it gets bigger. I worked with my new boss for the first time August 20 as well. She's pretty cool. I knew her as a friend, through my sister, before she became my boss. We are getting along great!
Since the 20th, I have lived in the North Hall dorms on campus. My roommate, Katie, is awesome, and we have much in common. My suitemates are from the Bahamas. That's pretty cool. The food in the cafeteria is surprisingly tasty. (Don't pay attention to the negative reports that commonly go out about MBU's cafe food.) I get my wanted and needed walks in from walking to and from the main part of campus almost every day. I usually enjoy the walks because Dink Marler's pretty, especially with *NICE* weather. Also from living on campus, my social life has increased, making it difficult to leave the cafe at suppertime to work on homework or clean. I enjoy my circle of friends.
The most drastic affect of moving to the dorms (hence the separate paragraph) is the increase of quality time I have with a particular gentleman--I am sure if you are one of my on-campus readers you know who it is. News of our relationship status is spreading like wildfire, so my reserve in mentioning it via my blog has declined. This major change possesses so many sub-changes and details that I could write a post devoted wholly to it.
The last major change is in church service. My previous posts called "Change," parts 1-3, explain the events surrounding this one.
The past few weeks have been an emotional roller-coaster, full of good and painful experiences. Throughout most of it, I feel as though I am, to some extent, going through the motions of living. I do not recognize myself inside. I have lost some confidence; I am a little unsure. I truly believe that this semester will bring more new things--good things. I am not going to be the same, maybe never again.
I hope the MBU students, new and returning, are having a great semester so far! Keep it up! I remember you in my prayers to God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
My sister, as you probably know, moved to Indiana August 9. That was an emotional time for me and many others. I am experiencing life without my sister for the first time in a long while. I am adjusting.
The first day of classes here at MBU was August 20. Coming to terms with the reality of summer break at its close is a big enough switch... but it gets bigger. I worked with my new boss for the first time August 20 as well. She's pretty cool. I knew her as a friend, through my sister, before she became my boss. We are getting along great!
Since the 20th, I have lived in the North Hall dorms on campus. My roommate, Katie, is awesome, and we have much in common. My suitemates are from the Bahamas. That's pretty cool. The food in the cafeteria is surprisingly tasty. (Don't pay attention to the negative reports that commonly go out about MBU's cafe food.) I get my wanted and needed walks in from walking to and from the main part of campus almost every day. I usually enjoy the walks because Dink Marler's pretty, especially with *NICE* weather. Also from living on campus, my social life has increased, making it difficult to leave the cafe at suppertime to work on homework or clean. I enjoy my circle of friends.
The most drastic affect of moving to the dorms (hence the separate paragraph) is the increase of quality time I have with a particular gentleman--I am sure if you are one of my on-campus readers you know who it is. News of our relationship status is spreading like wildfire, so my reserve in mentioning it via my blog has declined. This major change possesses so many sub-changes and details that I could write a post devoted wholly to it.
The last major change is in church service. My previous posts called "Change," parts 1-3, explain the events surrounding this one.
The past few weeks have been an emotional roller-coaster, full of good and painful experiences. Throughout most of it, I feel as though I am, to some extent, going through the motions of living. I do not recognize myself inside. I have lost some confidence; I am a little unsure. I truly believe that this semester will bring more new things--good things. I am not going to be the same, maybe never again.
I hope the MBU students, new and returning, are having a great semester so far! Keep it up! I remember you in my prayers to God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Change, Part 3
The situation, like I said in "Change, Part 2," is not all bad. Saturday night was the first example.
Example #2:
James 1:2-4 says, "[2]Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, [3]because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. [4]Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (NIV).
Example #3:
Moving to the dorms is exciting because I will meet my roommate, decorate/arrange a room again, and only have about a ten-minute walk to the main part of campus.
Example #4:
My dad and I may have a much better relationship when this season is over.
Example #5:
The rest of my family and my friends are supportive and caring.
Example #6:
This situation has got me thinking about changing my focus from only serving with my church family to serving in all of life with my life intentionally.
See, it's not all bad. I am not drowning; my head is still well above water. I am the sort of person who writes through the trials. It is how I release, I guess you could say. Yes, it is personal, but that is why it is perfect to blog about. If I just wrote about it and kept it to myself, no one could benefit from it except myself. By posting it on this blog, YOU can read it, identify with it, and know you're not alone. I am not quite as audacious as you might think. When I write for this blog, I do not consider what my audience is going to think--or perhaps more accurately, I have nothing to hide only words to write. I figure since I write honestly, why not post it? When you read my posts, I guess you see my heart.
Example #2:
James 1:2-4 says, "[2]Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, [3]because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. [4]Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (NIV).
Example #3:
Moving to the dorms is exciting because I will meet my roommate, decorate/arrange a room again, and only have about a ten-minute walk to the main part of campus.
Example #4:
My dad and I may have a much better relationship when this season is over.
Example #5:
The rest of my family and my friends are supportive and caring.
Example #6:
This situation has got me thinking about changing my focus from only serving with my church family to serving in all of life with my life intentionally.
See, it's not all bad. I am not drowning; my head is still well above water. I am the sort of person who writes through the trials. It is how I release, I guess you could say. Yes, it is personal, but that is why it is perfect to blog about. If I just wrote about it and kept it to myself, no one could benefit from it except myself. By posting it on this blog, YOU can read it, identify with it, and know you're not alone. I am not quite as audacious as you might think. When I write for this blog, I do not consider what my audience is going to think--or perhaps more accurately, I have nothing to hide only words to write. I figure since I write honestly, why not post it? When you read my posts, I guess you see my heart.
A Devotional
I received this devotional from Prime Time With God via email and found it helpful:
Reflecting His Glory
TGIF Today God Is First, by Os Hillman
They will tell of the glory of Your kingdom and speak of Your might, so that all men may know of Your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of Your kingdom. - Psalm 145:11-12
How do you measure your effectiveness in God, or should you even be thinking like this? The early Church turned the world upside down in that first century. What made them so effective? Was it their theology? Was it great preaching? Was it due to one man's influence apart from Jesus?
The Scriptures are clear as to what made the early Church effective. It is at the core of God's heart, and it is quite simple. God desires to reflect His nature and power through every individual. When this happens, the world is automatically changed because those who reflect His glory affect the world.
We serve a jealous God. He is a God who will not share His glory with anyone. God sets up situations in order to demonstrate His power through them. He has done this since the day He created man. His desire is to reflect His glory through you and me, so that all men may know of His mighty acts and the glorious splendor of His Kingdom (emphasis added).
The apostle Paul understood this principle: "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power" (1 Cor. 2:4-5).
If you do not see His glory being reflected through your life, then you need to ask why. He has promised to do so if we will walk in obedience to His commands (emphasis added).
Reflecting His Glory
TGIF Today God Is First, by Os Hillman
They will tell of the glory of Your kingdom and speak of Your might, so that all men may know of Your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of Your kingdom. - Psalm 145:11-12
How do you measure your effectiveness in God, or should you even be thinking like this? The early Church turned the world upside down in that first century. What made them so effective? Was it their theology? Was it great preaching? Was it due to one man's influence apart from Jesus?
The Scriptures are clear as to what made the early Church effective. It is at the core of God's heart, and it is quite simple. God desires to reflect His nature and power through every individual. When this happens, the world is automatically changed because those who reflect His glory affect the world.
We serve a jealous God. He is a God who will not share His glory with anyone. God sets up situations in order to demonstrate His power through them. He has done this since the day He created man. His desire is to reflect His glory through you and me, so that all men may know of His mighty acts and the glorious splendor of His Kingdom (emphasis added).
The apostle Paul understood this principle: "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power" (1 Cor. 2:4-5).
If you do not see His glory being reflected through your life, then you need to ask why. He has promised to do so if we will walk in obedience to His commands (emphasis added).
Change, Part 2
My response to my dad's command would have been different if he had spoken from a selfless motive. However, his reasons for my quitting the team revolved around himself. He did not express that he was speaking on behalf of my well-being, and he did not inquire about how much I enjoyed sound or how important it was to me. He was not concerned with Meadow Heights losing a tech team member, thinking someone else could simply replace me. His motives did not communicate value just as not listening or trying to change my personality.
Maybe I am taking the whole thing too personally because I just painted a pretty bad picture of him. There you have it though. To me, a loving Christian parent would think of what is best for his child in this situation and would want his child to serve in church. I think he does have good intentions, but I misinterpret them because of his doctrinal differences with the church. Hmm... I'm not sure.
I knew I was not being patient with him Friday night, and I remembered that the upcoming message was "Love is Patient." Perfect! Believe me, it was perfect. I listened to the message about three times. (We have five gatherings a weekend.) I listenend and prayed about becoming slow to anger. I was in such a good mood on the way home Saturday night. I meditated on the sermon notes/Scriptures and put what I had learned into practice once I arrived home. My interaction with Dad has not been the same since; it has been far better.
However, the pain is still here.
I have not shared every detail. I have left some out on purpose. Details that intensify the situation but would shed bad light are more advantageous to exclude.
Part 3 of "Change" will tell you the high moments--yes, this is not without pleasant details. It is not all bad.
Maybe I am taking the whole thing too personally because I just painted a pretty bad picture of him. There you have it though. To me, a loving Christian parent would think of what is best for his child in this situation and would want his child to serve in church. I think he does have good intentions, but I misinterpret them because of his doctrinal differences with the church. Hmm... I'm not sure.
I knew I was not being patient with him Friday night, and I remembered that the upcoming message was "Love is Patient." Perfect! Believe me, it was perfect. I listened to the message about three times. (We have five gatherings a weekend.) I listenend and prayed about becoming slow to anger. I was in such a good mood on the way home Saturday night. I meditated on the sermon notes/Scriptures and put what I had learned into practice once I arrived home. My interaction with Dad has not been the same since; it has been far better.
However, the pain is still here.
I have not shared every detail. I have left some out on purpose. Details that intensify the situation but would shed bad light are more advantageous to exclude.
Part 3 of "Change" will tell you the high moments--yes, this is not without pleasant details. It is not all bad.
Change, Part 1
I have a very sober post to write.
Tonight I was talking on the phone with my sister as well as writing on Facebook when a strong gust of wind beat against my bedroom window. The meteorologist from KSDK News Channel 5 said the wind was a gust front caused by the storm behind it. Gusts reached 62 mph in St. Charles. It is believed that some building damage occurred along I-70 and Highway 40. It hailed in O'Fallon, and trees fell, causing powerlines to also go down. Right now, I am sitting on my bed listening to the thunderstorm--the perfect mood for this post.
With the stage set, allow me to get to the heart of the matter. Many changes have happened, are happening, and will happen in my life. Both internal and external circumstances characterize these changes. My sister and best friend, Rachel, moved to Indiana last Thursday. She will start seminary Tuesday. Friends of mine have also already left MBU. Currently, I am in the process of moving to the dorms. I will check-in and officially move in Welcome Weekend (this weekend, August 17). I will meet my roommate, go to my first dorm meeting, and I will begin my first class of the fall semester the following Monday. Also the following Monday, I will begin working with a new boss. Undergoing these changes isn't easy. I am trying to take it one day at a time and trust God for everything to work out okay, for strength, for the ability to adjust, for a positive attitude... for the future.
On top of this, I just experienced a severely trying and emotional weekend. Its effects will most likely linger into the weekends ahead. One of my parents is giving me worse trouble than usual, specifically regarding my service in church. I have been training for three months to run sound with an awesome girl named Krys. I very much enjoy running sound. I think it is the closest I have gotten to serving in a ministry area that fits/uses my S.H.A.P.E. (spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality, and experiences). I have learned so much since I started and was able this weekend to mix successfully almost by myself.
I quit the team.
My dad commanded that I not serve on Saturdays anymore. He has said such things before, but this time he said it as a command and with authority. This time I was worn down past the point of fighting back. This time, I listened.
Whoa.
It is not every day I don't go down without a fight. I want the constant battle on the weekends to stop so badly. I am tired of going rounds with him. Amidst all the changes, I only felt able to obey. I felt as though I had nothing else left in me. I would love to enjoy my dad and for him to enjoy me, but that is not the way it is.
After I wrote that I quit the team, I stared at the sentence for a little while. It was hard for me to continue typing after that. Did I really quit the team? Something I've discovered I am passionate about doing, something I've trained for and was becoming good at, and something in which I truly felt like I was contributing to the Kingdom and to the mission of Meadow Heights Church has ceased.
I will discuss my dad's motive, the turn-around Saturday night, and evens that followed my quitting, Lord willing, sometime soon. It is still thundering....
Tonight I was talking on the phone with my sister as well as writing on Facebook when a strong gust of wind beat against my bedroom window. The meteorologist from KSDK News Channel 5 said the wind was a gust front caused by the storm behind it. Gusts reached 62 mph in St. Charles. It is believed that some building damage occurred along I-70 and Highway 40. It hailed in O'Fallon, and trees fell, causing powerlines to also go down. Right now, I am sitting on my bed listening to the thunderstorm--the perfect mood for this post.
With the stage set, allow me to get to the heart of the matter. Many changes have happened, are happening, and will happen in my life. Both internal and external circumstances characterize these changes. My sister and best friend, Rachel, moved to Indiana last Thursday. She will start seminary Tuesday. Friends of mine have also already left MBU. Currently, I am in the process of moving to the dorms. I will check-in and officially move in Welcome Weekend (this weekend, August 17). I will meet my roommate, go to my first dorm meeting, and I will begin my first class of the fall semester the following Monday. Also the following Monday, I will begin working with a new boss. Undergoing these changes isn't easy. I am trying to take it one day at a time and trust God for everything to work out okay, for strength, for the ability to adjust, for a positive attitude... for the future.
On top of this, I just experienced a severely trying and emotional weekend. Its effects will most likely linger into the weekends ahead. One of my parents is giving me worse trouble than usual, specifically regarding my service in church. I have been training for three months to run sound with an awesome girl named Krys. I very much enjoy running sound. I think it is the closest I have gotten to serving in a ministry area that fits/uses my S.H.A.P.E. (spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality, and experiences). I have learned so much since I started and was able this weekend to mix successfully almost by myself.
I quit the team.
My dad commanded that I not serve on Saturdays anymore. He has said such things before, but this time he said it as a command and with authority. This time I was worn down past the point of fighting back. This time, I listened.
Whoa.
It is not every day I don't go down without a fight. I want the constant battle on the weekends to stop so badly. I am tired of going rounds with him. Amidst all the changes, I only felt able to obey. I felt as though I had nothing else left in me. I would love to enjoy my dad and for him to enjoy me, but that is not the way it is.
After I wrote that I quit the team, I stared at the sentence for a little while. It was hard for me to continue typing after that. Did I really quit the team? Something I've discovered I am passionate about doing, something I've trained for and was becoming good at, and something in which I truly felt like I was contributing to the Kingdom and to the mission of Meadow Heights Church has ceased.
I will discuss my dad's motive, the turn-around Saturday night, and evens that followed my quitting, Lord willing, sometime soon. It is still thundering....
Friday, August 03, 2007
Desiring God Coverage of the Bridge Disaster
On the Don't Waste Your Life Facebook group, the Director of Resource Strategies from Desiring God posted a link to their compilation of video from the disaster scene set to one of John Piper's sermons. It is around six minutes long. You should check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wG0dhA_RT8
You can also find it on the Don't Waste Your Life web site. Actually, I encourage you to check out the web site anyway. It's great.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wG0dhA_RT8
You can also find it on the Don't Waste Your Life web site. Actually, I encourage you to check out the web site anyway. It's great.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Even More
This is overwhelming! I like Hillsong, and they're Australian! If you're not familiar with Hillsong, just listen to the second and/or eighth song on my playlist at the bottom of the page.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
More Australian Evidence
My sister pointed out to me another way in which I am Australian. I not only like Keith Urban, use Aussie shampoo and conditioner, and eat Wallaby yogurt, but I also like the new GTO's that were originally built from an Australian platform.
The Final "Squirrel Saga" Post?
Tragic news. PETA is going to be all over this.
I have not said much about the squirrels in a while because I think my dad finally won. I've said this before, but this time I am very confident. After he moved the hummingbird feeder, he has not had any trouble with them--even the smart one.
However, it looks as though my dad may not have triumphed on his own. It seems a certain neighbor of ours, Bill, is also having a squirrel problem. (It's like an epidemic!) The little creatures have not only been getting plump from birdseed--if that's possible--but they have been dipping into Bill's corn as well. His garden is a vast feeding ground for them.
To solve his problem and, by the transitive property, solve our problem and to prevent them from spoiling all his cantaloupe along with corn, he began to shoot in their direction. He was only trying to scare them off. It did not work, so he hung up some dead squirrels. Unfortunately, they are too tame. He then shot them, one by one. He only has about six more to go, I believe, out of the original twenty--no lie.
This is tragic because though the squirrels are pesty little animals, I have grown attached to their being around or at least the amusement they bring. They are cute and furry and smart--sort of. If they were truly smart they would have ran and not returned after the first one was shot. Anyway, I feel compassion for them, but it is too late for any intervention from me.
How sad that Man vs. Squirrel must end on such a bittersweet note!... at least for now. "It's not over 'til it's over," Yogi says. Six of them are still alive. Can they pull themselves together for a comeback? We can only wait and see.
I have not said much about the squirrels in a while because I think my dad finally won. I've said this before, but this time I am very confident. After he moved the hummingbird feeder, he has not had any trouble with them--even the smart one.
However, it looks as though my dad may not have triumphed on his own. It seems a certain neighbor of ours, Bill, is also having a squirrel problem. (It's like an epidemic!) The little creatures have not only been getting plump from birdseed--if that's possible--but they have been dipping into Bill's corn as well. His garden is a vast feeding ground for them.
To solve his problem and, by the transitive property, solve our problem and to prevent them from spoiling all his cantaloupe along with corn, he began to shoot in their direction. He was only trying to scare them off. It did not work, so he hung up some dead squirrels. Unfortunately, they are too tame. He then shot them, one by one. He only has about six more to go, I believe, out of the original twenty--no lie.
This is tragic because though the squirrels are pesty little animals, I have grown attached to their being around or at least the amusement they bring. They are cute and furry and smart--sort of. If they were truly smart they would have ran and not returned after the first one was shot. Anyway, I feel compassion for them, but it is too late for any intervention from me.
How sad that Man vs. Squirrel must end on such a bittersweet note!... at least for now. "It's not over 'til it's over," Yogi says. Six of them are still alive. Can they pull themselves together for a comeback? We can only wait and see.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
PC--Never Mind--Faith
My dad bought a used computer from a man who lives near Manchester (St. Louis, MO). It is a 2002 Dell Optiplex GX240. I have been setting it up for my parents after Dad and I plugged everything up and got all the parts situated.
Oh! Sudden change of writing plans...
My dad was just talking about my mom's possible test of faith. My parents and my sister returned from Jeffersonville, IN, yesterday. They were moving Rachel's furniture to her new apartment. My sister's going to seminary, but that's a whole other blog.
Before they left on Monday, my mom's foot was hurting severely. (If you are unfamiliar with my mom's foot problems, check out my past posts labeled "Prayer Requests and Praise Reports." Her foot is healing now, praise the Lord.) She went on the trip anyway, and has not had any severe pain, to my knowledge, since that morning. My dad and I think that it may have been a test of faith from God for my mom. She still went, even though she was in pain. It was like a step of faith. It is also possible that the devil may have been rearing his head. She very much wanted to go on the trip, for she had not seen the apartment or the seminary campus before the trip.
I promise that was way better than what I originally was going to write about.
Oh! Sudden change of writing plans...
My dad was just talking about my mom's possible test of faith. My parents and my sister returned from Jeffersonville, IN, yesterday. They were moving Rachel's furniture to her new apartment. My sister's going to seminary, but that's a whole other blog.
Before they left on Monday, my mom's foot was hurting severely. (If you are unfamiliar with my mom's foot problems, check out my past posts labeled "Prayer Requests and Praise Reports." Her foot is healing now, praise the Lord.) She went on the trip anyway, and has not had any severe pain, to my knowledge, since that morning. My dad and I think that it may have been a test of faith from God for my mom. She still went, even though she was in pain. It was like a step of faith. It is also possible that the devil may have been rearing his head. She very much wanted to go on the trip, for she had not seen the apartment or the seminary campus before the trip.
I promise that was way better than what I originally was going to write about.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Everything from the Word "Hiatus" to Greek
Apologies upon apologies to all my fans (just kidding) for seemingly abandoning the blogosphere. Some definite blog-worthy happenings have transpired, but because they are so much in the past, I cannot recall them.
From what I can salvage, allow me to fill you in on what you have missed.
From what I can salvage, allow me to fill you in on what you have missed.
- I am pretty convinced by now that I am Australian at heart. By reflection I have come up with these three facts to back up my claim: (1) I use Australian shampoo, Aussie; (2) I eat Australian-style yogurt, Wallaby (Jeremy, if you should happen to run across this post, know that it is organic.); and (3) I like Keith Urban, who is Australian.
- I recently delved into a friend's New Testament Greek textbook. I have had it since school let out, but I had only opened the book sparingly before last week. I am on the exercises portion of Unit 2. I enjoy learning Greek. To me, it is an exciting language to learn. The whole Greek culture fascinates me. The main cause of my interest, however, is in my desire to get to the raw text of the Bible. To read New Testament Scripture in Its original language would be like embracing Truth in a hug--enveloping It in order to comprehend Its worth and understand Its exact meanings (not the "big picture" meaning but meanings of individual points). I know that I cannot possibly do either of these things, but that is the measure of significance I place on proficiently knowing New Testament Greek. It seems as though it would open a whole new, for lack of a better word, facet of the Bible to me...
- June 23rd my cousin married at Stonegate Glass Chapel just north of Branson, MO. My sister and I headed down to Harrison, AR, (where he lives) the Thursday before. We viewed his brother's house and met his brother's roommate, ate my aunt's DELICIOUS food, and enjoyed making comparisons of my aunt and uncle to our parents--at least I did. Besides the rehearsal dinner, wedding, and reception, we did not have anything on our agenda before we went down there. It was truly a vacation. Before the rehearsal dinner I chilled in the living room for a few hours doing absolutely nothing but observing my surroundings and napping a bit. After the rehearsal dinner, my uncle took us all (my aunt, my aunt's sister and niece, and us) to Branson Landing. That place is NICE. The street lamps change colors, the walkway is brick, music plays outside constantly, and the Landing has good stores. It's right by the lake too. I very much appreciated my famly throughout the vacation. I think much of the time I take them for granted, but not that time. They are a great group of people! Oh, by the way, the wedding and all its appending activities were very enjoyable as well.
Writing of vacations, I am currently on hiatus from work for some R&R in the country. I took off with the aims of soaking up amazing scenery, wide open spaces, and birds' songs instead of endless buildings, small spaces, and traffic noise; and--this is my primary aim--of digging into the Word and reading my current books in peace and quiet with focused attention. I have done hardly any of the two and hope to achieve better tomorrow.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Sweet Treat
I'm in church again down in All Stars. Something great happened last Wednesday. Rachel and I had become accustomed to dessert the weekend before while we were in Harrison, AR, and, therefore, were craving something sweet. We went to Applebee's for a chocolate meltdown (yum!).
Not long after we were digging into our scrumptious, devilish delight, without my knowing, a man--who heretofore shall be dubbed Charlie--tapped on the window (the one separating Drury Inn from the restaurant) and asked Rachel if our food was good. At the time I was looking down at my food (one track mind) and didn't notice anything was going on until I looked up at Rachel, who was gazing over to her left with a grin on her face. She said, "That man is talking to me." In a quandry, I slowly peered over to my right with an apprehensive expression, and when my eyes landed on Charlie, I immediately, in conjunction with my sister, busted up into laughter. Charlie came around to our table and asked, "So am I going to get a bite of that?" We were both thinking, "Sure, go ahead." He laughed and said, "I'm going to pay for your dessert." "No need for that," I replied.
When we finished our dessert, we gave the waitress our payment with the ticket and figured, Well, I guess Charlie isn't coming by. A couple minutes later, the waitress returned with the ten I had given her and said, "That man over there said he'd pay for your dessert." Well, okay! Before we left, we thanked him. He said he figured since he had joked around with us that he'd pay the ticket. How nice of him! God used him to be a financial blessing in both of our lives, so praise God.
Not long after we were digging into our scrumptious, devilish delight, without my knowing, a man--who heretofore shall be dubbed Charlie--tapped on the window (the one separating Drury Inn from the restaurant) and asked Rachel if our food was good. At the time I was looking down at my food (one track mind) and didn't notice anything was going on until I looked up at Rachel, who was gazing over to her left with a grin on her face. She said, "That man is talking to me." In a quandry, I slowly peered over to my right with an apprehensive expression, and when my eyes landed on Charlie, I immediately, in conjunction with my sister, busted up into laughter. Charlie came around to our table and asked, "So am I going to get a bite of that?" We were both thinking, "Sure, go ahead." He laughed and said, "I'm going to pay for your dessert." "No need for that," I replied.
When we finished our dessert, we gave the waitress our payment with the ticket and figured, Well, I guess Charlie isn't coming by. A couple minutes later, the waitress returned with the ten I had given her and said, "That man over there said he'd pay for your dessert." Well, okay! Before we left, we thanked him. He said he figured since he had joked around with us that he'd pay the ticket. How nice of him! God used him to be a financial blessing in both of our lives, so praise God.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Man vs. Squirrel Update... Again
I'm in church right now with some downtime. During the service, All Stars registration agents don't have much to do; most of our work is before and after the services, making sure all the kids are counted for attendance and secure. MH has definitely stepped up to the plate in the safety department, and our new kiosk system has been working great!
Anyway, the purpose of this post has been a long-time coming. A couple weeks ago, I guess, more developments ensued over the pesty squirrels in the backyard. Since they've pretty much given up on the birdfeeder, they have decided to go for the hummingbird feeders. My dad caught one of them in the act of hanging upside-down on the feeder by the tree. Ah, geez! Those varments are definitely determined and smart! In efforts to prevent such a thing from happening again, my dad relocated the hummingbird feeder to hang right in front of our sliding glass doors. My mom, however, liked one of our other birdfeeders there better, so with protest my dad moved the hummingbird feeder to the clothes line with its sister feeder. Maybe now my parents can have some peace. While the hummingbird feeder was hanging by the sliding glass doors, the squirrels kept trying to jump from the steps' railing to the feeder or from the doors' partition, causing a racket against the glass.
Our neighbor has a rather large garden that he claims squirrels keep getting into. He says he's going to start shooting, which should help my dad pull off a victory in Man vs. Squirrel; however, these squirrels sure have been entertaining, and I'll miss them if they become extinct in the area! (Now my true feelings about them come out.)
Anyway, the purpose of this post has been a long-time coming. A couple weeks ago, I guess, more developments ensued over the pesty squirrels in the backyard. Since they've pretty much given up on the birdfeeder, they have decided to go for the hummingbird feeders. My dad caught one of them in the act of hanging upside-down on the feeder by the tree. Ah, geez! Those varments are definitely determined and smart! In efforts to prevent such a thing from happening again, my dad relocated the hummingbird feeder to hang right in front of our sliding glass doors. My mom, however, liked one of our other birdfeeders there better, so with protest my dad moved the hummingbird feeder to the clothes line with its sister feeder. Maybe now my parents can have some peace. While the hummingbird feeder was hanging by the sliding glass doors, the squirrels kept trying to jump from the steps' railing to the feeder or from the doors' partition, causing a racket against the glass.
Our neighbor has a rather large garden that he claims squirrels keep getting into. He says he's going to start shooting, which should help my dad pull off a victory in Man vs. Squirrel; however, these squirrels sure have been entertaining, and I'll miss them if they become extinct in the area! (Now my true feelings about them come out.)
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Sean > Rush
Today's radio show sealed the deal. Sean Hannity is amazing. I officially prefer him over Rush Limbaugh. Though Rush cracks me up sometimes and is very confident, Sean treats his callers very well, supports the soldiers 100%, and has more class. The show today, the anniversary date of D-Day, featured the recording of President Roosevelt's prayer. Sean's 89-year-old veteran friend was on the air for a while as well. It was very moving. Such radio shows make a person look outside his usual perspective of the United States. We Americans truly are blessed to live in such a country, even when it seems divided by politics. Sean Hannity is where it's happening. Case closed.
Monday, May 28, 2007
"How Marvelous, How [Incredible]!"
I was just thinking about how incredible Passion07 was and how incredible it was that I was a part of it. I am listening to Charlie Hall on the Passion06 CD (Everything Glorious), which sparked my thinking. Imagine with me: 25,000 students gathered together in the name of Jesus to bring glory to the Father and enjoy Him, standing unified with Christ by Christ for the same cause, the same purpose--all together, in one place--the presence of God unmistakable. I do not have to imagine. I only have to remember. That is incredible.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
New Developments in the Case Man vs. Squirrel
I thought the squirrel guard put an end to it, but I was wrong. Last weekend, I learned that the squirrels had chewed off part of the funnel's rim, and one of the furry creatures was basking in the sun on the perch of the birdfeeder, according to a first-hand, eye-witness account. My dad resolved to not give up but to "go to the mattresses." He put a shield of some sort over portions of the funnel. (Note that this action is perfectly legal as it was done in self-defense.) I cannot recall the material of this shield, but for now, his efforts have succeeded. The suspect, however, remains unapprehended. This was [supposedly] derived from an old police report:
WANTED
Current alias: Squirrely "The Unstoppable" Varment
Age: Unknown
Height: 7"
Weight: 1.5 lbs.
Description: "Squirrels are generally clever and persistent animals. In residential neighborhoods they are notorious for eating out of bird feeders, digging in potted plants either to bury or recover seeds, and for setting up house in sheltered areas including attics. While many companies sell bird feeders which are supposedly 'squirrel-proof,' very few of them really are" (Wikipedia).
Original photo derived from Digital Photography: http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0Je5qgyt1NG1hEBfkCjzbkF/SIG=12c7iqmps/EXP=1179977906/**http%3A//www.photozo.com/album/showphoto.php%3Fphoto=65859
WANTED
Current alias: Squirrely "The Unstoppable" VarmentAge: Unknown
Height: 7"
Weight: 1.5 lbs.
Description: "Squirrels are generally clever and persistent animals. In residential neighborhoods they are notorious for eating out of bird feeders, digging in potted plants either to bury or recover seeds, and for setting up house in sheltered areas including attics. While many companies sell bird feeders which are supposedly 'squirrel-proof,' very few of them really are" (Wikipedia).
Original photo derived from Digital Photography: http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0Je5qgyt1NG1hEBfkCjzbkF/SIG=12c7iqmps/EXP=1179977906/**http%3A//www.photozo.com/album/showphoto.php%3Fphoto=65859
Thursday, May 17, 2007
FRIGID... Part 2
I must follow up on my my last post. I went to class yesterday, and the AC was NOT running in Room 310! I did not take my sock cap, so it's a good thing it was taking a break. Talk about basking in the "WARMTH"* of the room--while still in my hoodie, mind you. I thought to myself as I was basking, My blog post must have done some good; maybe I should blog about stuff like that more often! My idea was crushed when the air came blasting out of the duct toward the end of class.
NOTE: "Toward the end of class" does not indicate 3:25 p.m., the scheduled dismissal time, but rather the point at which we students began our course evaluations--around 1:30. NOTE AGAIN: It is with pleasure I wrote the previous sentence. I am NOT complaining.
*Did you notice how funny warmth looks in ALL CAPS? Did you also notice the word was in quotation marks? It was not WARM in the room; it was CHILLY, a considerable upgrade from FRIGID.
It's time to get serious...
NOTE: "Toward the end of class" does not indicate 3:25 p.m., the scheduled dismissal time, but rather the point at which we students began our course evaluations--around 1:30. NOTE AGAIN: It is with pleasure I wrote the previous sentence. I am NOT complaining.
*Did you notice how funny warmth looks in ALL CAPS? Did you also notice the word was in quotation marks? It was not WARM in the room; it was CHILLY, a considerable upgrade from FRIGID.
It's time to get serious...
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
FRIGID.
Today is approaching mid-May, without the rain it'd be around 83 degrees outside, and I'm sitting in the Records Office here at MBU in a hoodie. Does that make sense? Do not misunderstand me, I am not complaining about the AC in the basement of the Field building--I know what it is like to work without it--so just keep reading.
I started taking my hoodie with me to school for my three-week May-term Business Writing class. It's in Field 310, the corner room, and without a hoodie, it is FRIGID. The air blows from the vent straight down to my head. Now don't imagine a line drive of cold air; this blast is more like a radioactive bomb--it has a radius, not just one endpoint. Therefore, I cannot simply move to a nearby seat to avoid it. If I move to the back or across the room, I might escape, but then I would alienate myself from my prof and six peers. I opt for a hoodie and, starting today, a sock cap. That's right. I'm not messing around anymore--a sock cap means business.
It's so cold in Business Writing, I have to "shoo away the penguins" (Ray Romano, Everybody Loves Raymond).
I started taking my hoodie with me to school for my three-week May-term Business Writing class. It's in Field 310, the corner room, and without a hoodie, it is FRIGID. The air blows from the vent straight down to my head. Now don't imagine a line drive of cold air; this blast is more like a radioactive bomb--it has a radius, not just one endpoint. Therefore, I cannot simply move to a nearby seat to avoid it. If I move to the back or across the room, I might escape, but then I would alienate myself from my prof and six peers. I opt for a hoodie and, starting today, a sock cap. That's right. I'm not messing around anymore--a sock cap means business.
It's so cold in Business Writing, I have to "shoo away the penguins" (Ray Romano, Everybody Loves Raymond).
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Recent Developments in Man vs. Squirrel
My dad may have finally defeated the squirrel(s). No, it was not the PVC pipe--though it may have worked if it was not removed for a more sophisticated tool. My mom kindly ordered a squirrel guard with which my dad is, so far, very pleased. It favors an upside-down funnel with a lip circumferencing (if that is a word) the bottom. When the squirrel tries to grab this lip in efforts to go above the guard and to the bird feeder, the lip collapses under the little creature's weight, and the creature falls to the ground. It has worked so far. After two or three attempts, the squirrel suddenly became content with feeding on the ground, at least for now. Recent developments may have unfolded without my knowledge. Unless I am informed of something different, think SUCCESS! The epic war may have finally ended with my father's victory at the Battle of Squirrel Guard!
Monday, May 07, 2007
Down but Not without Hope
To my surprise, my last post was coherent.
I don't know what to say, but I am hoping to let out some of my mixture of emotions (or lack thereof) by writing. It is hard for me to accurately describe what is going on inside me, and it has been like this for a couple days. I feel as though I am troubled, but with what am I troubled? I am not at rest. I am uncomfortable, but I don't know why. Most likely, I need to renew my mind with the transforming power of God's Word. I need to spend some one-on-one time with Jesus. I usually get like this when I slack in this one-on-one time.
Then again, a part of me feels almost numb. I went to bed fine--more accurately, happy--on Saturday night and woke up Sunday morning with no passion, no zeal, no zest, no vigor... and it hasn't come back yet.
I was inspired by Job this evening. Job worshiped God for the good and the bad times and recognized God's sovereignty. He lost his kids to a storm and was able to see the situation with this perspective. "...The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). It would be good for me to "stop and consider the wondrous works of God" (Job 37:14).
It would be great to take a vacation from myself for a while, so I think I might just do what the previous Scripture says.
I don't know what to say, but I am hoping to let out some of my mixture of emotions (or lack thereof) by writing. It is hard for me to accurately describe what is going on inside me, and it has been like this for a couple days. I feel as though I am troubled, but with what am I troubled? I am not at rest. I am uncomfortable, but I don't know why. Most likely, I need to renew my mind with the transforming power of God's Word. I need to spend some one-on-one time with Jesus. I usually get like this when I slack in this one-on-one time.
Then again, a part of me feels almost numb. I went to bed fine--more accurately, happy--on Saturday night and woke up Sunday morning with no passion, no zeal, no zest, no vigor... and it hasn't come back yet.
I was inspired by Job this evening. Job worshiped God for the good and the bad times and recognized God's sovereignty. He lost his kids to a storm and was able to see the situation with this perspective. "...The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). It would be good for me to "stop and consider the wondrous works of God" (Job 37:14).
It would be great to take a vacation from myself for a while, so I think I might just do what the previous Scripture says.
A Waste of Space (And Time)
Right now, I am putting one of my best tactics into practice--procrastinaiton. I just lost most of my motivation to work on my homework (time-consuming homework at that) and am seriously considering shutting down my computer and participating in the conversation around me. I'm sitting by the fireplace in the campus coffehouse, The Perk--I recommend this place by the way; it's nice.
Anyway, the art of procrastination is easily learned but not easily forgotten. It does indeed become a habit that mostly likely won't break automatically when college is over. It will, I predict, carry on into my work life, if I don't bear down.
Now about this homework. I'm taking a May-term class that lasts three weeks--that's four days a week for a scheduled three and a half hours a day. Note, however, that I have yet to remain in class for the scheduled amount of time. This class is not too intense but could become so if I put off my latest assignment until last minute. This sucker, I promisse you, is time-consuming!
Yet, here I am, still typing out this blog post and not doing my homework. I know you can relate. Procrastination plagues just about every college student. Why do we procrastinate? Why? What psychological processes go on to make us official procrastinators?
I'm just throwing this question out there. I'm sure the art of procrastination cannot be boiled down to just a few (or several) steps of psychological processes, but my current state of A.D.D.-like behavior is hindering me from intellectually brainstorming for better ideas. I hope all this is coherent; I am not sure.
Anyway, the art of procrastination is easily learned but not easily forgotten. It does indeed become a habit that mostly likely won't break automatically when college is over. It will, I predict, carry on into my work life, if I don't bear down.
Now about this homework. I'm taking a May-term class that lasts three weeks--that's four days a week for a scheduled three and a half hours a day. Note, however, that I have yet to remain in class for the scheduled amount of time. This class is not too intense but could become so if I put off my latest assignment until last minute. This sucker, I promisse you, is time-consuming!
Yet, here I am, still typing out this blog post and not doing my homework. I know you can relate. Procrastination plagues just about every college student. Why do we procrastinate? Why? What psychological processes go on to make us official procrastinators?
I'm just throwing this question out there. I'm sure the art of procrastination cannot be boiled down to just a few (or several) steps of psychological processes, but my current state of A.D.D.-like behavior is hindering me from intellectually brainstorming for better ideas. I hope all this is coherent; I am not sure.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Request for Help with 1 Corinthians 9:16-18
I recently read 1 Corinthians 9:16-18:
"Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights in preaching it."
Is Paul saying that his reward is to offer the Gospel free of charge? If so, how is it his reward? Paul did say earlier in the chapter that he would rather die than not have his boast of not using his rights, making it clear that "[offering the Gospel] free of charge" is of value to him (qualifying it as a reward, maybe?). What are his "rights in preaching it"? Material support from the Corinthians? I'd appreciate some help with this if you have anything to offer or if you need to correct me.
"Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights in preaching it."
Is Paul saying that his reward is to offer the Gospel free of charge? If so, how is it his reward? Paul did say earlier in the chapter that he would rather die than not have his boast of not using his rights, making it clear that "[offering the Gospel] free of charge" is of value to him (qualifying it as a reward, maybe?). What are his "rights in preaching it"? Material support from the Corinthians? I'd appreciate some help with this if you have anything to offer or if you need to correct me.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Speaking of Squirrels...
On further thought, it seems that squirrels have taunted not just my family and the Crowders but others as well. It's like an epidemic! I remember a friend called Drew having a terrifying encounter with a squirrel on his campus. Also, my boss knows someone who has had squirrel issues. The list goes on and on! Maybe squirrels really are evil...
Sorry, Audience.
No easy way to say this exists, so I am just going to say it bluntly: My promised picture of the bird feeder contraption (See "Amusing Events" and the end of "Ol' Sup" posts.) will never come. I am sure you're reaching for a tissue right now in pure agony. Believe me when I say, I am sorry.
This is what happened. I kept forgetting to take the picture, and then my dad decided to try some friends' advice to use a PVC pipe. In the process, he removed the contraption. The PVC pipe he had handy is not large enough in diameter, so it only hindered the squirrel(s) temporarily. He is wanting to buy a larger one. I will try to keep you posted (no pun intended).
This is what happened. I kept forgetting to take the picture, and then my dad decided to try some friends' advice to use a PVC pipe. In the process, he removed the contraption. The PVC pipe he had handy is not large enough in diameter, so it only hindered the squirrel(s) temporarily. He is wanting to buy a larger one. I will try to keep you posted (no pun intended).
Check This Out
This is great. I was watching some DC*B videos on YouTube the other night (when I should have been sleeping) and ran across this one. Today, I thought I'd catch up on Crowder's blog and saw that he had just posted the same video May 1 on his blog! Hilarity. I'll give you the link to his blog: http://www.xanga.com/emprise34. Once you're on YouTube, look to the left of the video to the related videos pane and click on the "Foreverandever Etc." animated music video. It's pretty good. The follow-up video to "Evil Squirrel by David Crowder" is also in the related videos pane. I believe there is also a part three in the series, but I have not watched it yet. Anyway, enjoy!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
From the Seed Springs Forth the Flower
This is not actually a poem. It does not even qualify as blank verse. It is, however, my expression of the condition of my soul on February 13.
O little flower, you sprung up so quickly.
O little seed, what outward beauty you have produced!
But inside your stem is rubble.
Inside your petals is deadening deceit.
For through your outward beauty you deceive many,
And few know the depravity of your soul.
O little flower! O little seed!
May death take you over if no Soil comes to save.
Where is your Rescuer? Where shall He,
Whose savor is sweet, come from?
Be sure that if the seed desires, He will be found
And the flower will live.
For His sweet savor will take root in the seed
And flourish in the flower.
Monday, April 30, 2007
God is Faithful.
Last week was very rough for me. It was probably the most difficult week I have had in college, and the roughness is not even school related.
A friend of mine, a person I know better than anyone else on campus besides my roommates, moved away. I knew that he was planning to transfer for two or three months prior to his actual leaving, but the departure and resulting absence have been harder to deal with than I ever anticipated.
Before he left, I gave him a small gift--small in size and possibly (but hopefully not) in significance but not small in the time and money spent--that included a three-page letter. In this letter I attempted to share some "last" words of encouragement and instruction in the faith (for I had been discipling him throughout this school year) and convey my thoughts on and feelings toward him. I wanted him to know that at least one person on this college campus cared enough for him to diligently pursue him in Christian fellowship and take the initiative in matters regarding him, such as keeping up with his business, and that one person is me.
He did not perceive himself as being skilled in making friends or as being well-liked by most. I think, and I could be wrong, he thought he was, in a sense, invisible--a topic on which I will elaborate further in a future post. He was never invisible to me. I am not trying to sound arrogant when I say that I took the time, went out of my way, and quite frankly did things for him that I currently would NEVER do for ANYONE else. God laid him on my heart early in the fall '06 semester, and I have carried a deep burden for his spiritual growth. I do not view myself as being as servant-hearted as people like my sister (who is amazing), but I truly enjoy serving him. I can just sit around content thinking of ways to serve him.
You can probably understand now why his departure from this campus and this city is so painful for me. I made random trips to the restroom throughout Wednesday to release my emotions and left work early. I kept telling my sister that I needed a vacation, that I needed out of St. Louis for a while. I wanted to go home to the country--a nice change of scenery and a scenery I love. Over time I am sure that I will adjust to his absence and think less of him (as extended absences always cause), but last week I felt as though a part inside me was dying, and I prayed for God's strength and His enabling me to focus my thoughts on other things and eventually get over this. Since that prayer in the women's restroom of the Field building, God has shown me His care and faithfulness in helping me think of other things and giving me His strength to continue every day without the destructive apathy I had developed last week. Praise God, and glory in the highest!
A friend of mine, a person I know better than anyone else on campus besides my roommates, moved away. I knew that he was planning to transfer for two or three months prior to his actual leaving, but the departure and resulting absence have been harder to deal with than I ever anticipated.
Before he left, I gave him a small gift--small in size and possibly (but hopefully not) in significance but not small in the time and money spent--that included a three-page letter. In this letter I attempted to share some "last" words of encouragement and instruction in the faith (for I had been discipling him throughout this school year) and convey my thoughts on and feelings toward him. I wanted him to know that at least one person on this college campus cared enough for him to diligently pursue him in Christian fellowship and take the initiative in matters regarding him, such as keeping up with his business, and that one person is me.
He did not perceive himself as being skilled in making friends or as being well-liked by most. I think, and I could be wrong, he thought he was, in a sense, invisible--a topic on which I will elaborate further in a future post. He was never invisible to me. I am not trying to sound arrogant when I say that I took the time, went out of my way, and quite frankly did things for him that I currently would NEVER do for ANYONE else. God laid him on my heart early in the fall '06 semester, and I have carried a deep burden for his spiritual growth. I do not view myself as being as servant-hearted as people like my sister (who is amazing), but I truly enjoy serving him. I can just sit around content thinking of ways to serve him.
You can probably understand now why his departure from this campus and this city is so painful for me. I made random trips to the restroom throughout Wednesday to release my emotions and left work early. I kept telling my sister that I needed a vacation, that I needed out of St. Louis for a while. I wanted to go home to the country--a nice change of scenery and a scenery I love. Over time I am sure that I will adjust to his absence and think less of him (as extended absences always cause), but last week I felt as though a part inside me was dying, and I prayed for God's strength and His enabling me to focus my thoughts on other things and eventually get over this. Since that prayer in the women's restroom of the Field building, God has shown me His care and faithfulness in helping me think of other things and giving me His strength to continue every day without the destructive apathy I had developed last week. Praise God, and glory in the highest!
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Please Pray for MH
As my long-time readers know, sometimes I ask for prayer in my blog. It's that time again. This prayer request, however, is not for an individual's health problem as my requests usually are. My home church, Meadow Heights Baptist Church, is under either spiritual attack or is in preparation for what is to come. Whichever, we have been since the beginning of this year. God has been doing amazing things among and through us, and we believe He has much more in store in the coming months. Perhaps partially because of this we have been enduring severe health crises churchwide.
Please pray for the physical health and spiritual endurance of MH as a whole.
These crises are bazaar. For example, early this year, my pastor had to have surgery on his vocal chord because of an hemorrhaging polyp. He could not talk for a while and had to undergo voice therapy. Members of the leadership staff stood in the pulpit each week on a rotating basis, and I think our church grew closer together and to God throughout it all.
Another example: A family took their four-year-old daughter to the hospital to treat her broken leg, and in the process of treatment, someone discovered she had an autoimmune disease called Takayasu Arteritis that attacks her blood vessels. She has already experienced Stage 1, so some damage to her aorta has already occurred. Prednisone and Methotrexate were prescribed for treatment. (My mom has had to take these medications for rheumatoid arthritis, so we know the effects they can have. Having to take them at such a young age, before full development, is sad.) She is also taking blood pressure medicine.
The young child's family says she is the youngest person her doctors have seen with this disease and are praising God for her broken leg. The family has had an amazing attitude throughout all this, trusting God and knowing that His hand is on the girl's life. They said in an email that they have given her to Him and are "continuing in His strength and for His glory." I truly admire them and are thankful for people like them in the Church.
One last example: Our youth coordinator/worship leader was diagnosed with walking pneumonia a few weeks ago. He was feeling better before last Friday night, when he woke up with severe pains. He was transported to Parkland Hospital in Farmington, MO, and was put into isolation. His many visitors had to suit up and wear masks before seeing him. For a while, the doctors did not know what was wrong with him, but I was informed today that his colon had ruptured from a bubble behind his chestbone. The burst released gas into his body cavity, and he became infected. As far as I know, he is so supposed to stay in the hospital untl at least tomorrow.
These examples and many deaths/life-threating illnesses (like a man's wife suddenly collapsed and died at a gas station and a boy was paralyzed from the chest down from a serious auto accident) have afflicted MH, and I ask for you prayers in regards to strength, endurance, perseverance in believing, patience, comfort, and God's healing. Most importantly, I ask that you pray that God would be glorified throughout all this.
Thank you so much!
Please pray for the physical health and spiritual endurance of MH as a whole.
These crises are bazaar. For example, early this year, my pastor had to have surgery on his vocal chord because of an hemorrhaging polyp. He could not talk for a while and had to undergo voice therapy. Members of the leadership staff stood in the pulpit each week on a rotating basis, and I think our church grew closer together and to God throughout it all.
Another example: A family took their four-year-old daughter to the hospital to treat her broken leg, and in the process of treatment, someone discovered she had an autoimmune disease called Takayasu Arteritis that attacks her blood vessels. She has already experienced Stage 1, so some damage to her aorta has already occurred. Prednisone and Methotrexate were prescribed for treatment. (My mom has had to take these medications for rheumatoid arthritis, so we know the effects they can have. Having to take them at such a young age, before full development, is sad.) She is also taking blood pressure medicine.
The young child's family says she is the youngest person her doctors have seen with this disease and are praising God for her broken leg. The family has had an amazing attitude throughout all this, trusting God and knowing that His hand is on the girl's life. They said in an email that they have given her to Him and are "continuing in His strength and for His glory." I truly admire them and are thankful for people like them in the Church.
One last example: Our youth coordinator/worship leader was diagnosed with walking pneumonia a few weeks ago. He was feeling better before last Friday night, when he woke up with severe pains. He was transported to Parkland Hospital in Farmington, MO, and was put into isolation. His many visitors had to suit up and wear masks before seeing him. For a while, the doctors did not know what was wrong with him, but I was informed today that his colon had ruptured from a bubble behind his chestbone. The burst released gas into his body cavity, and he became infected. As far as I know, he is so supposed to stay in the hospital untl at least tomorrow.
These examples and many deaths/life-threating illnesses (like a man's wife suddenly collapsed and died at a gas station and a boy was paralyzed from the chest down from a serious auto accident) have afflicted MH, and I ask for you prayers in regards to strength, endurance, perseverance in believing, patience, comfort, and God's healing. Most importantly, I ask that you pray that God would be glorified throughout all this.
Thank you so much!
Monday, April 16, 2007
Insight from Jonathan Edwards
Last Saturday, something pivotal in my life took place... and it hurt.
I was hurrying to the sofa at the apartment, and I somehow managed to strike my toe on a random staple under the sofa. How in the heck?!
Yes, it was pivotal. Hee, hee...
Every moment in time is pivotal based on the laws of action and reaction. I have a quote for you from Jonathan Edwards that I found on the Facebook wall of the group Dead Theologians Society:
"Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can."
I was hurrying to the sofa at the apartment, and I somehow managed to strike my toe on a random staple under the sofa. How in the heck?!
Yes, it was pivotal. Hee, hee...
Every moment in time is pivotal based on the laws of action and reaction. I have a quote for you from Jonathan Edwards that I found on the Facebook wall of the group Dead Theologians Society:
"Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can."
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Ol' Sup
Last October, my roommates and I went to Thei's Farm where one can buy pumpkins from a pumpkin patch as well as goods from a little shop and explore hay mazes and a cornfield maze. One can also take a guided tour through the pumpkin patch, fields, and orchards.
Anyway, about that pumpkin... my roommate spotted a beauty, and it was the winner. I named it Sup after former Cardinals pitcher Jeff Suppan. I bought the pumpkin for my dad and I to carve as we sometimes do around Halloween time. I go home about every weekend for church and to see my parents, and every weekend did not seem like the right time to carve the pumpkin. My dad and I kept procrastinating. Soon Thanksgiving came and went. (If you view my Thanskgiving photo album on Facebook, you can see a picture or two with the pumpkin in the foreground.) Then Christmas came and went--I think by this time I was urging my dad to get cracking on the pumpkin--and the New Year along with Passion07 came and went. Valentine's Day... Martin Luther King Day... St. Patrick's Day... Easter. Over the weekend, my mom, sister, and aunt forced me to put the infested pumpkin outside by the garbage can. I did so reluctantly. For one thing, I did not want to touch it. I will admit, ol' Sup is pretty nasty.
My dad said he was going to cut it open to see the inside. I really hope he does. My mom and sister would rather Sup take a ride off the roof.
By the way, that picture of the bird feeder is still in the works.
Anyway, about that pumpkin... my roommate spotted a beauty, and it was the winner. I named it Sup after former Cardinals pitcher Jeff Suppan. I bought the pumpkin for my dad and I to carve as we sometimes do around Halloween time. I go home about every weekend for church and to see my parents, and every weekend did not seem like the right time to carve the pumpkin. My dad and I kept procrastinating. Soon Thanksgiving came and went. (If you view my Thanskgiving photo album on Facebook, you can see a picture or two with the pumpkin in the foreground.) Then Christmas came and went--I think by this time I was urging my dad to get cracking on the pumpkin--and the New Year along with Passion07 came and went. Valentine's Day... Martin Luther King Day... St. Patrick's Day... Easter. Over the weekend, my mom, sister, and aunt forced me to put the infested pumpkin outside by the garbage can. I did so reluctantly. For one thing, I did not want to touch it. I will admit, ol' Sup is pretty nasty.
My dad said he was going to cut it open to see the inside. I really hope he does. My mom and sister would rather Sup take a ride off the roof.
By the way, that picture of the bird feeder is still in the works.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Amusing Events
I love my parents. Recent amusing events have plagued them. Let me elaborate...
Amusing Event #1
My parents had just parked in front of the Hallmark store in Farmington, MO. Since my dad wanted to help my arthritic mom out of the car, and my mom had a second set of keys for the car, my dad decided to leave the keys in the ignition. My mom didn't want to take her big boat of a purse into the store, so she left it in the car and locked the doors, naturally so no one would steal it. They then went on with their shopping. When my parents returned to the car, my dad wanted my mom's set of keys to unlock the car, and she, of course, did not have them because they were in her big boat of a purse, which was, of course, in the car. My parents had to call a locksmith and pay $35 to have the car unlocked.
Amusing Event #2
Some time ago, my dad went to Lowe's to return a defective Shop-Vac. The Lowe's employee gave him a Lowe's card worth $85 to use to buy a new Shop-Vac. My dad didn't know he was supposed to use the card to make the exchange, so he left the store with the $85 card--thinking it wasn't worth anything (i.e., a dead card)--and a new Shop-Vac. My mom recently persuaded him to have the card checked, and lo and behold, he found out that $85 was on the card. He knew it wasn't right to use the $85 (nor legal), but the woman servicing him insisted that he use the "free" money because, after all, it was Lowe's mistake. They should not have given him the card. My parents now have a new $100 Moen faucet in their kitchen.
Amusing Event #3
My dad was having some car trouble recently, so he was driving his '90 Chevy truck to work while the car was out of commission. While working on his car, he decided to leave the battery going to listen to music. After a snag or sure (I cannot remember how many), the project wound up taking a little longer than anticipated. As most of you know, if you leave a car battery pulling juice for too long, the car will not have enough battery power left to start. Needless to say, when my dad tried to start the car, it was 100 percent dead. He thought to himself, "It's okay. I'll just use the truck." When he turned the key in the ignition the truck wouldn't fire either! "What is going on around here?!" he wondered. He told my mom the situation, and my mom asked if he had left his lights on. My dad is very careful about things like that and thought the idea ridiculous but went ahead and checked it out. Sure enough, he had left his headlights on all day!... Hilarity.
Amusing Event #4
I've saved the best for last. My dad has been in a war against some squirrels in our backyard for a very long time. They like to climb the pole to the bird feeder and eat the bird seed. My dad has tried a funnel, a piece of wood I think, a strip of plastic, a strip of plastic with sides, and maybe even oiling up the pole. No matter what my dad has tried, the squirrel(s) end up on top (no pun intended). Recently, my dad has had to make revisions on his strip of plastic with sides and has formed it into a plastic box of sorts. For a week the squirrel was stumped (yes, the other squirrel gave up a while ago, so there is only one still fighting), then it finally happened. I was in the kitchen as my dad was walking into the dining room looking out the sliding glass doors. Suddenly he gasped. I looked out the window and saw the varment atop the plastic box, eating to his mischievous delight. For probably a good ten minutes, my dad, sister, and I stared outside the sliding glass doors, trying to figure out the seemingly genius animal's strategy. We laughed at the thought that my dad was being outsmarted by a squirrel. Make no doubt about it, we have seen these squirrels in action and know that they do actually think things through and study different angles--at least when it comes to getting on a bird feeder. For some added humor, know that the birds are particularly attracted to the squirrels' food when my dad puts it out on the ground. I will try to provide a picture of the bird feeder with its ridiculous contraption soon.
In case I do not write for a while, God bless your celebration of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection!
Amusing Event #1
My parents had just parked in front of the Hallmark store in Farmington, MO. Since my dad wanted to help my arthritic mom out of the car, and my mom had a second set of keys for the car, my dad decided to leave the keys in the ignition. My mom didn't want to take her big boat of a purse into the store, so she left it in the car and locked the doors, naturally so no one would steal it. They then went on with their shopping. When my parents returned to the car, my dad wanted my mom's set of keys to unlock the car, and she, of course, did not have them because they were in her big boat of a purse, which was, of course, in the car. My parents had to call a locksmith and pay $35 to have the car unlocked.
Amusing Event #2
Some time ago, my dad went to Lowe's to return a defective Shop-Vac. The Lowe's employee gave him a Lowe's card worth $85 to use to buy a new Shop-Vac. My dad didn't know he was supposed to use the card to make the exchange, so he left the store with the $85 card--thinking it wasn't worth anything (i.e., a dead card)--and a new Shop-Vac. My mom recently persuaded him to have the card checked, and lo and behold, he found out that $85 was on the card. He knew it wasn't right to use the $85 (nor legal), but the woman servicing him insisted that he use the "free" money because, after all, it was Lowe's mistake. They should not have given him the card. My parents now have a new $100 Moen faucet in their kitchen.
Amusing Event #3
My dad was having some car trouble recently, so he was driving his '90 Chevy truck to work while the car was out of commission. While working on his car, he decided to leave the battery going to listen to music. After a snag or sure (I cannot remember how many), the project wound up taking a little longer than anticipated. As most of you know, if you leave a car battery pulling juice for too long, the car will not have enough battery power left to start. Needless to say, when my dad tried to start the car, it was 100 percent dead. He thought to himself, "It's okay. I'll just use the truck." When he turned the key in the ignition the truck wouldn't fire either! "What is going on around here?!" he wondered. He told my mom the situation, and my mom asked if he had left his lights on. My dad is very careful about things like that and thought the idea ridiculous but went ahead and checked it out. Sure enough, he had left his headlights on all day!... Hilarity.
Amusing Event #4
I've saved the best for last. My dad has been in a war against some squirrels in our backyard for a very long time. They like to climb the pole to the bird feeder and eat the bird seed. My dad has tried a funnel, a piece of wood I think, a strip of plastic, a strip of plastic with sides, and maybe even oiling up the pole. No matter what my dad has tried, the squirrel(s) end up on top (no pun intended). Recently, my dad has had to make revisions on his strip of plastic with sides and has formed it into a plastic box of sorts. For a week the squirrel was stumped (yes, the other squirrel gave up a while ago, so there is only one still fighting), then it finally happened. I was in the kitchen as my dad was walking into the dining room looking out the sliding glass doors. Suddenly he gasped. I looked out the window and saw the varment atop the plastic box, eating to his mischievous delight. For probably a good ten minutes, my dad, sister, and I stared outside the sliding glass doors, trying to figure out the seemingly genius animal's strategy. We laughed at the thought that my dad was being outsmarted by a squirrel. Make no doubt about it, we have seen these squirrels in action and know that they do actually think things through and study different angles--at least when it comes to getting on a bird feeder. For some added humor, know that the birds are particularly attracted to the squirrels' food when my dad puts it out on the ground. I will try to provide a picture of the bird feeder with its ridiculous contraption soon.
In case I do not write for a while, God bless your celebration of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection!
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