Can't always be perfect

I decided a few months ago, with sufficent proding by a friend, to take up meditation. I have always envied people who could just sit in quiet and seem "out of it", then when I ask them what they are thinking about they honestly answer - nothing. To empty one's mind and sit in peace... how wonderful would that be?

And it has been.

I never thought I would get there. I had simply come to the conclusion (because I know everything about myself at the ripe old age of 22) that I would never be able to calm or quiet my mind and reach that sort of state. But for whatever reasons I decided to try.

I like to meditate with a mantra. I have been exploring new ways to meditate as well and have a few books on the subject along with the typical web searches. It always takes some time, but I have had some indescribable experiences. In particular, one experience when I was in California at a conference.

I woke up one morning just not feeling right. Kinda like I was getting sick, but whatever it was I was just all out of wack. Perhaps because I had been running around with boundless and what seemed to be unlimited energy at a fabulous conference on camping and meeting tons of people. Honestly - I had not taken much time for myself or much time to rest. I just get so excited sometimes and it feels like I can't get enough of the wonderful experiences I'm having, so I just keep going and cramming in as much as I can in a day.

So I woke up all wrong, skipped breakfast and bible study to meditate. I have been advised that sometimes meditation can seem like you a sleeping - and I get nervous that I just do fall asleep. But I had a vision. (or a dream?) With some interesting people in my life, but it was very vivid, insightful, and meaningful to me. But that's not the best part.

Normally after meditating, I feel as if I am cuddled in God's arms. As if God is saying to me, honey I'm here, rest a bit, I'll take care of you and love you for always, you can always come to me and I'll always be right here. It's exactly what I feel like I've been searching for and wanting for as long as I can remember. And struggling with where to get it - because it doesn't come from the places I feel like it should or want it to. But here I have found it.

That wasn't the feeling I got that day in California. When I was done God wasn't holding me, God was inside of me. I had a similar feeling of warmth and love, but it was not outside of my physical body - it was within. Now, I am often described as a "bubbly" person - overflowing with energy. After meditating that morning I was not just bubbly - I was glowing. I just felt love beaming out of every possible part of me. It was indescribable.

I have been meditation for about an hour every other day or so for a while now. Sometimes more often, sometimes less. I can feel it when I skip it and I miss it. I am not as centered, patient, happy, or on task. On days I meditate, sometimes I feel like I can save the world. Or at least the world's orphans.

Sadly however, life can't always be perfect. I have been trying to meditate. I need it, I'm alittle high strung and stressed out. I feel like my own stuff is going okay - I need to be more productive and timely, but there are other things going on that are out of my control. I know in my head that not everything will be wonderful all the time - and that I can't solve everyones problems. But I still feel bad and it still effects me. I care... I'm sorry? It matters to me. But I guess all I can do is pray and focus on the things I can effect.

So I've been trying to meditate to help myself become more centered again - and I have not been able to for over a week! I try and nothing. No quiet. No peace. No nothing. Frustration and muddleness. I am still a mess!!!

But God doesn't work on my schedule, so I will have to keep trying.

always,

a sister on the journey

~Erin

Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8
1 There's an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything on the earth:

2 -8

A right time for birth and another for death,

A right time to plant and another to reap,

A right time to kill and another to heal,

A right time to destroy and another to construct,

A right time to cry and another to laugh,

A right time to lament and another to cheer,

A right time to make love and another to abstain,

A right time to embrace and another to part,

A right time to search and another to count your losses,

A right time to hold on and another to let go,

A right time to rip out and another to mend,

A right time to shut up and another to speak up,

A right time to love and another to hate,

A right time to wage war and another to make peace.

Spirituality Test

I love personality tests!  Crazy fun ones, detailed ones, whatever.  I find it fascinating that we are all SO different.  Sometimes I am struck by this just during a conversation - however there are some great things we can learn through personality tests.  

Tests I have taken (and remember)- 

Truecolors - I am GREEN.  Very green on my own, with more people (especially children) my blue comes out stronger and stronger.  Gold comes with kids too - begrudgingly.  

MyersBriggs - ENFP.  I am an extreme extravert.  Must have people!  Also very feeling and perceptive.  The intuition verses sensing... eh.  

Animals - I'm an otter!  Compared to a beaver, lion, or golden retriever.  

Take a personality test here:

http://www.mypersonality.info/personality-types/

Discussing these with friends, as we do them or with others, has been a great tool in understanding why we see things differently or do things differently.  The language that goes with each category has been extremely helpful for me to better understand myself and identify, manage for, and appreciate the differences and strengths of others.  

So - I found spirituality test!  

There are 4 categories you can fit into

Sage

Mystic

Prophet

Lover

Guess what I am.....!

Each time I have taken the questionnaire

I have always come out as a Prophet!

I love that we are all so different in every way - yet all wonderfully made.  Here's one of my favorite verses on the matter -

Psalm 139:14 (The Message)

 13-16 Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; 
      you formed me in my mother's womb. 
   I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking! 
      Body and soul, I am marvelously made! 
      I worship in adoration—what a creation! 
   You know me inside and out, 
      you know every bone in my body; 
   You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, 
      how I was sculpted from nothing into something. 
   Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; 
      all the stages of my life were spread out before you, 
   The days of my life all prepared 
      before I'd even lived one day.

Here is where you can take it for yourself -

http://www.upperroom.org/methodx/thelife/test.asp

and here is the description about mine:

You are a Prophet, a crusader with a kingdom spirituality. You experience God best through serving others. You value competence and knowledge, and are good at leading and influencing others. Prophets are devoted to their causes, often becoming assertive and aggressive as you implement a vision of the world as God's kingdom on earth. You are our heroic change agents and we admire you for that. Single-minded and deeply focused, you aren't content until society has been transformed.

Prophets are the least represented spiritual type in the general population. You also are the hardest spiritual type to be around, mainly because you make the rest of us feel guilty for not having the same zeal for change that you do. We admire you for sacrificing your personal life for your hope of the kingdom realized on earth, but we are uncomfortable around martyrs.

You have a courageous and sturdy idealism that takes responsibility for change. But, your passion for transforming society can lead you to become impatient with congregations and their perceived lack of concern. You fit best in a hospitable, like-minded community that shares your vision.

Nevertheless, be careful not to become so involved in your cause that you neglect your inner life. Attend as much to your inner life as outer life. One will nourish the other.

Learn about other types: Sage | Prophet | Lover | Mystic

Famous Prophets:

Mother Teresa | Ralph Nader | John Calvin 
Lucy (Peanuts) | Rosa Parks | Dorothy Day 
Joan of Arc | Monica Geller | Martin Luther King, Jr. 
Jeremiah | Malcolm X | Ghandi 
Indigo Girls | Gandalf | Oprah Winfrey

~always 

your sister in the journey, Erin

Purpose

God has a purpose for each of our lives.  I don't know how it all works... I probably won't ever.  Yet, I am getting closer to finding mine?  or at least getting closer to having a real understanding of who I am.  

This has been a struggle for me in the past few years.  Funny thing is, not until I really prayed for God to give me a hunger for him did I really get a more solid picture of me.   

I am complicated.  This is not something I really have ever tried to hide, occasionally tried to change... but it's just a part of who I am.  Many have had a glimpse of this and reacted in a number of different ways.  

I love to care for others  

Help in every way that I can, 

hug someone who is hurting, 

celebrate the good things in life together

I love to surprise people

I love to give

I find joy in the little things (brown paper packages w/string!)

I am an extrovert to the core

I feed off of others

sure sometimes I can get exhausted...

stressed...

but the good weighs it out

it's like - I get sick on rollercoasters

especially if they go upside-down

I will NEED a garbage can...

so I don't really go on them

but occasionally - 

it's worth it

serving, giving, and being a part of most of the things I am

it's worth it to me

I do think about it all

the choices I make

the commitments I make

I weigh out my options 

and choose 

Chances for me to serve

be a shining example

share my gifts

are wonderful opportunities I feel blessed to have

I thank God for each one

be it for a friend

or for a stranger

The heart of who I am in not within me

I am loving, giving, and compassionate not because of myself

I am who I am because of what God has been to me

I do enjoy Stacie Orrinco's song-

"Don't look at me if you're looking for perfection, 

don't look at me I will only let you down.

I'll do my best to force you in the right direction, 

don't look at me - look at HIM."

"Sometimes I have the fear, that you will see the mirror

and get the thought that it's the main attraction"

Many people have made comments to me about my bubbliness and my compassion.  It is touching to have people be thankful for things I have said or done.  But I can not take the credit.  I love that God has given me a servant heart.  I only hope that through my actions and my love people can see and experience the love of God. 

Mark 12: 30-31

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 31The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself.

Sure it's not always that easy.  I slip.  I stumble.  I fall.  But that doesn't mean God can't use me.  And no matter how far I stray from God, I still find that I am being used.  There is a purpose for my life and while I am actually quite afraid of my calling... I also can't wait. 

~a sister on the journey, Erin

Prophetic?

Not alot has made it from my head lately to this blog. I wish I could be more reliable somedays. . . but it would take away from my "green" personality.

I sat in on an amazing session at a conference last week about Peace and resolving conflict. When talking about the healing process they discussed several steps. Many of which I think have more to do with learning who you are and being happy with it - or able to ask for help to become something else. I really liked this idea.

Steps in life:
1. Find your passion
2. Live it
3. Learn about others and their passions
4. Work together to make the world a better place

I'm sure I will work on this over the years. . . but really - find what you love to do and do it. Then encourage others to do the same. Enjoy life, and don't let others get you down.

My passion - serving others. Especially those who are disadvantaged, abused, or suffering from injustic. If you get to know me and my past (essential to getting to know me...) then you will understand why this is my passion.

How do I live it? I try to love every person I meet. Donate my time, energy, and what little money I have to good causes. I work with children trying to teach them to know themselves. No one can really be a "good person" without an understanding of who they are.

Others- I would like to try harder to really make an effort to learn about my friends passions in life. I feel like I am getting better at this.

When possible, it is an amazing thing to see multiple people working towards a shared passion. To be able to connect with another person or many others to really make a bigger and bigger difference in the world.

I LOVE the idea that this is the way to reduce conflict. In a single word to me it means - care. Care about yourself. Know yourself. Be confident with who you are and work towards your goals not just personally, but towards your passion. Then care about others. Learn their names. Their passions. Care about them as a person, not just a body who walked past you or you happen to run into. Look into their eyes, remember they have joys, struggles, family, and friends just like me. Ask honestly about how they are and listen to what they say. Even if you hate them for something they did, or for any other reason - remember they are another human being. As such they deserve to be treated as though they have something to offer the world. As an asset to the community. When everyone is given this kind of respect, reguardless of their past actions, we will have peace.

Prophetic? Idealistic?

don't agree?. . . eh, I still love you all the same.

Intertwined

So much always happens so fast. The summer is far gone and we are over halfway into the school semester. This week was a difficult week. Last weekend I went home to try to take care of some of my knee problems. But not today. Today I was reminded that there are better things on this earth.

Today we sang for the sunday school classes. Me and Zach and Grace with a guitar. They absolutely LOVED it! But the best part of it all was the teaching. What is the story about? What does it mean? How can we learn from it? So many things for all ages. . .

I love the song undignified. The idea of praising God with no barriers, with no other thoughts blocking the way is beautiful. Just plain, full out, personal, worship. Not something most of us are familiar with today. Being able to talk through the story with the kids and go crazy with them was wonderful. Once we were finished with the 2-5th graders we had about a 10 minute break before the little ones so we stopped in the nursery! Oh my did those kids have a blast too. The littlest ones weren't sure what to do or say - but you could tell they enjoyed it. It was heart warming and a lesson from them. Keep it simple. Remember how awesome God is and be thankful - good or bad - sing Hallelujahs.

By and By

I love the song "I'll fly away, oh glory, I'll fly away. When I die, hallelujah by and by, I'll fly away". And this morning it is stuck in my head.

Admist all of the worries and all of the challenges in a day, a simple song like this reminds me of God's world. This is not a place I am destined to stay forever. One day I will fly home. More than half of the struggle of life can be changed with attitude. When I get stressed, frustrated, or upset if I look on the situation as a problem, it will be something I must solve or fix. Yet if I take the time to wrap my head around it as a challenge then it is no longer something I must struggle with, but work towards climbing over.

Smiles and laughter. Simple things to smile about every day. Enjoy the beautiful sunshine today. God Bless!

your sister in Christ~
Erin

Lost

There is just too much in my mind right now. I don't know how to feel, what to do, or what I want. There are too many paths to take I don't know how to get anywhere. There is just so much confusion and too much happening. I can't do it alone but I can't always have what I want either. There is not enough time to take every path and choices have to be made but what, and how?

I found this poem as well that i like. . .

God gave us this beautiful world and so many blessings that I often take off running with excitement towards all of the wonderful things to do. But i forget to take time to be with my Lord. To be thankful, to ask for guidence, to learn my path. I run until I can't see anything anymore and then i fall. Come to me Lord, come and forgive me ~ take me by the hand and open my eyes to your plans and your beauty. . .

Control

There are so many things to do in a day I find it difficult to handle it - yet I don't deal well with large periods of free time. I tend to go out and find something to get involved in and then I have too much to do later. Anyhow, with everything in life from doing homework, going to work, and balancing my checkbook with my social life on good days I feel as if I have some control over my life. Maybe this is decieving. But right now I feel like life is so far out of balance and there isn't much I can do to fix it. I am off to CWES (central wisconsin environmental station) tomorrow morning for 2 weeks of indepth field study, then home and back in a weekend before camp begins. June and the begining of July should be fine - just getting ready for Europe!

While I struggle with this not having control thing we go to see the new Narnia movie. Great film, granted it was alot of action and alittle much battle scenes for me. However, the message hit me hard. Peter, the oldest brother and high king, didn't appreciate having Prince Caspian around and the two struggled with who should lead and who's ideas they should follow. The main characters found themselves in a major jam and were trying to figure out what to do - it seemed obvious - they had to do something big to get the bad guys out of Narnia. Convinced that they could do it on their own, Peter leads the troops into a surprise battle that does not end well. Despite how hard they try, they really don't have control over the situation and trying harder isn't going to make it any better - really just worse. Luckily the littlest one, Lucy, remembers who they need to go when life's problems are bigger than they can handle.

With the little bits of control I have in my life - what to wear, what to do on the weekends, where to live, and many such things I feel like I am in control of my life. I find a place to live, work to earn money, and pay rent. Sometimes I get to prideful in how well I can make my life work. Especially when I just scrape by. This isn't what God wants for my life. He wants me to hand over all of my troubles to him and life my life entirely for him. Not just the parts I want - but control of all of me.

On days where I just can't do it anymore this seems the perfect solution. . . but what about when I'm doing good? Much harder. I feel like I'm entitled to some things. But how much better would my life be if I just prayed for help, for guidence, for God to lead me in my path? Things would be much smoother and not so questionable. Lord please help me remember who is really in control of this world - and where my place is next to you.

Peace,
Your sister in Christ~Erin

Bleeding Heart

Today my heart sinks as I read many of the commentaries from General Conference. I tend to be a person who wears my heart on my sleeve and right now it is bleeding from the hateful words thrown around on the blogosphere.

I will be honest - I believe that the God who created the world, you, me, and everything around us we see and don't see loves us unconditionally. UNCONDITIONALLY. And made us perfect just the way we are. Reguardless of color, nationality, economic status, health status, addictions, flaws, genders, and yes - sexual orientation. REGARDLESS.

This is a God too large for me to fully understand. This is a God without a gender. There is no he there is no she - God is outside of these boundries and boxes for humanity. But he made this creation and said it was good.

Sometimes I think we use words that we don't often consider the implications of. God is love. A very common verse many of us refer to. God's love is unconditional is another truth I can not imagine a christian disagreeing with. I feel however that many of my christian brothers and sisters today want to say that while God does love all of us we can only affirm those among us who fit into our groups. This is not unconditionally love. This is not true acceptance.

Never in a million years would I want everyone to share my views and opinions. God gave us all different minds for a reason. But I expect love back from my brothers and sisters who are of different mindsets than me. Love in the forms of respect, courtesy, honestly, and understanding. An understanding that while we may disagree neither of us has to be right or wrong. We don't have to leave the church and begin a new one. We don't have to accuse each other in our own denomination of being the anti-christ. We don't have to be enemies.

In my humble opinion Jesus taught a message of inclusion. He went to religious people and gatherings - he taught in the temple! Yet he also went and made friends with those who today would not be allowed in our churches. We have heard this again and again and I have seen improvement - however today there is not a spirit of love between us. Not a fire burning within us to go out and make disciples.

"Wesley believed that the living core of the Christian faith was revealed in Scripture, illumined by tradition, vivified in personal expereince, and confirmed by reason"

SCRIPTURE, TRADITION, EXPERIENCE, REASON - not one of these categories are easy answers. I don't want to be labeled a liberal, a fundatmentalist, or anything else. I don't want a watered down hipie Jesus hanging out and loving everyone.

I want a faith that challenges me to not only be a better person but to entirely rely on my God. I don't want a faith that makes me feel good about myself but a faith in which I can serve and make an impact in the lives of others. I don't want an easy formula of truth straight from the bible. I want a faith entangled in scripture, tradition, my experience, and my reason. A personal relationship with God in which I can live, breathe, and exist.

This is why I am United Methodist. Like any other religion it is not perfect, but the fellowship, group worship, and encouragement I recieve from my fellow methodists helps me grow in my faith. Some days it is easy, and others it is impossible, but everyday there is a hope that God is my rock and my salvation, comfort in the time of storm.

I can only hope that through the difficultness of life and legislation we as United Methodists can continue to grow in our faith, rely on God, and take on the challenge to unconditionally love.

Your sister in Christ~Erin

Coming Together

Today was our church Children's Musical "The Tale of Three Trees". As the director this has been my headache for the last 2 months. With very little attendance at rehearsals to miscommunication amoung the adult leaders- it has been a very difficult show. But today we did it for the congregation and it went GREAT!

We had 3 older children playing one of the trees and a few others taking leadership in key places. However this show was comprised of about 5 songs and not many of the children had much interest in singing.

With patience, work, and repetition we practiced and changed and added new children up to the end. Wednesday at rehersal we tried to put it together and it didn't go so well. However this morning - I'm not really sure what happened (for I was behind the alter and couldn't see), but God was with them and helped them share a great ministry story with the congregation.

Everyone seemed to love them and many people came and congratulated me and the kids. I breathe a great sigh of relief now. While I would do anything for the kids this was a rough road and I'm not to eager to do it again. However, I thank God for the places he has been able to use me at my local church and all of the work he has done to help these kids be in ministry.

"Through Christ anything is possible" Philippeans

your sister in Christ~Erin

Motivation

As I sit here contemplating my day there are so many thoughts rushing through my head. I have so much to do - so much to keep track of - so much going on. Yet for the past week or more I have lost all sense of motivation. Life has just been bogged down yet no matter what. . . I have always wanted to try. I'm not sure where that went?

However, yesterday I had a fantastic conversation with a couple of friends where I got to dream again. Remember why I was here at school. I want to make a difference in the world. I love kids- but I especially feel called to work with girls. So much happends in the mind of a girl, we all need a hand to hold as we are growing up. And with sharing all of those thoughts, my spark came back.

God has a funny way of walking with us. At times I almost feel as if he is never there - yet he throws a curveball in there every once and awhile just when we need it most. I had been neglecting my devotions and my spiritual life. Free will is a wonderful thing. . . but not very accountable. Yet no matter what I do I know that God will never leave me. And when I need it most in my life he will be there and reach me. Sometimes through an amazing conversation with friends and sometimes with challenges. But always something.

Again I find the joy in life and try to care (about classes too!). I find inspiration in one of my favorite flowers of spring . . . . an apple blossom!

With love and peace,

your sister in Christ - Erin

Struggle

I never have enough time, enough patience, enough something. I always want more. More time to study, more money for school, more more more. I struggle with being content with what god gave me. I love how this image shows a balance yet a struggle. If there is anything I can wish you, my friend, it is enough. . .


"I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.

I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.

I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.

I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.

I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.

I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.

I wish enough "Hello's" to get you through the final "Good-bye.."

God Bless,

with love from your sister in Christ~Erin

Uncertain

There is so much to do yet. . . I lack modivation? Sigh, maybe - right now I would have to say my head is so very cloudy. It seems as if the world is just foggy in general. Like this picture:

So beautiful, yet so full of questions. Where to go next? Will I have to walk this path alone? What to do about the things that scare me? Is this MY path? This is a picture from a National Park in Germany - ironic, maybe I will walk this path on my trip this summer.

What do I do next? Walk right into this foggy path? Let things go the way they will? Wait? So much of my time is filled with questions and doubt - and drama. I want to find my way in the world. I don't want to wait for it to find me, yet their is so much uncertainty.

I never expected life to be easy - but I used to expect life to happen to me. I have some plans but I also like to be able to move with the flow. The control freak inside of me is freaking out. Do I have the courage to simply keep placing one foot in front of the other and look up at all that is around me? Maybe only time will tell. I wish a hand would reach out and we could go through the uncertainty together. There is always room for dreams and wishes - yet I will have to take them along with hope through this path today, alone.

Yet I take comfort in this song based on Isaiah 43:1 "Do not be afraid I am with you. I have called you each by name. Come and follow me, I will bring you home. I love you and you are mine."

Sometimes I get so caught up with my view of life that I forget to ask God to be involved. To hold my hand and show me the way. I pray someday I will get it.

God Bless,

your sister in Christ~Erin

Patience

My thoughts are overcroweded inside my head with frustrations, ideas, problems, and things to do. I have been sick lately and it's been really up and down sometimes I'm fine and sometimes I'm not. Lots going on with my life with school, working , planning summer and next school year, $, my family, and some hard things happening with some close friends. While all these things go through my head I must learn patience.


Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.- Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)


I must remember that God is in control and when trusted has a funny way of making things work out well. I feel sometimes like I have to plan everything, use my experience and skills to help things happen, and always be there doing the right thing. There are so many ideas of things I have always wanted for my life - so many thoughts about how I'd like to do things. Graduate. Get a real job - somewhere working with kids, maybe outside. . . maybe with a christian group? Find a great guy who loves me to have adventures with. So many plans yet little patience.

Classes will work out. Things will be good. However the more I try to do it on my own the more it flies away. I must learn to place my worries in God's hands and let them go. Here is a poem I have always liked. . . yet rarely really listened to :

Just for today: I will try to live through this day only, and not tackle all my problems at once.

Just for today: I will be happy. This assume to be true what Abraham Lincoln said, *Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be.*

Just for today: I will adjust myself to what is, and not try to adjust everything to my own desires. I will Take my *luck* as it comes, and fit myself into it

Just for today:I will try to strengthen my mind. I will study. I will not be a mental loafer. I will read something that requires effort. Thought and concentration.

Just for today: I will exercise my soul in three ways: it will do somebody a good turn and not get found out; if anybody know of it, it will not count. I will do at least two things I don't want to do-- just for exercise. I will not show anyone that my feelings are hurt: they may be hurt but today I will not show it.

Just for today: I will be agreeable. I will look as well as I can, dress becomingly, keep my voice low,be courteous,criticize not one bit. I won't find fault with anything, nor try to improve or regulate anybody else but myself.

Just for today: I will have a quiet half hour all by myself, and relax. During this half hour, sometime I will try to get a better perspective of my life.

Just for today: I will be un-afraid. Especially I will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful,and to believe that as I give to the world, so the world will give back to me.

Your sister in Christ~ Erin

Expression

I have always been fond of words and sometimes very frustrated by words. I think both emotions come from my need to express myself. Everyone who knows me knows how much I like to chat, really I find alot of things very interesting and my favorite form of expression is linguistic. Often I will attempt to find just the right word for the moment- however when typing. . . spelling isn't my greatest strength. Anyhow, we took multiple intelligence tests today for one of my education classes and I scored highly linguistic and musical. If you can't use words to describe something, you can always color it with tone, rhythm, or pitch. I didn't score so well on Kinaesthetic or intrapersonal, and everything else was kinda in the middle.

I began to think more about expression and learning. It is facinating to think how well and how differently we all communicate. I found this fun picture this morning -



I think children can often be the easiest communicators, maybe not with words, but with feeling and expression. I also recieved a devotional this morning which encourages positive expressions and actions toward others.

Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
-Proverbs 16:24 (NIV)

WHEN our church's disaster-relief team arrived in a New Orleans neighborhood, the minister of the church there gave a brief overview of the area. Drive-by shootings occurred nightly; at least one person died each night. Since Hurricane Katrina, these incidents had diminished, but the team was advised to stay together and be aware of their surroundings. As we worked on one of the assigned houses, a car drove by and a group of local residents waved excitedly and yelled, "We love y'all!" This drive-by blessing was totally unexpected and a powerful moment for our team.

Many times since this incident, someone has given me a simple and sincere compliment that uplifted me and made my day brighter. Now, I make a conscious effort to find something good in others and mention it as I walk by them at work or as I pay at the store counter. Through these brief encounters, I hope to provide a "drive-by blessing" that can encourage others and lift them up.
Norma P. Marroquin (Texas, U.S.A.)

Many times we can ecourage others simply by our expression or a few kind words. Inflection is always something that I love as well - I think it is great to surprise someone by how you say "good morning" and not just the typical grumble we are all so used to. Meaning behind the words really connects expression with linguistics. It's all something interesting to think about and play with. . .

Hope you are staying warm in this negative degree weather! Think warm thoughts!

God Bless you and yours,
your sister in Christ~Erin

Christmas

Christmas time is here. . . Christmas time is here... if you don't know me very well I am singing along as I write. I LOVE CHRISTMAS! The music, the smiles, the lights, the cards, the time with family, everyone happy (well ... for at least part of the time, family get togethers can be interesting).

I wish you a very happy holiday season, not overly stressed with shopping or finals (colleges did not pick the greatest time for this...).

Remember to reflect. As I was helping my pusdo family put up things on their christmas tree we were reflecting who gave ornaments, the ones the kids made, and many many stories. Reflect on all of the blessings God has given you and your family. Enjoy the season, the magic, and the snow!

Smile, and remember how many of your family and friends love you.

God Bless you and yours,
your sister in christ always with love,
Erin

Priorities?

I have always heard and told people that "you will make time for the important things". Life is soooo busy, and when it's not, it doesn't always seem like a relief, it seems as if something is wrong or just empty. I wonder about the things I spend time on and that keep me busy...

I'd like to think homework, but it's just not true, the night before something is due maybe or if I really like the project. But no, I'd also like to think God is my highest priority, however if the saying is true you'll make time. . . I definatley kick myself often for just not finding the time to read and to pray. I wonder where I spend most of my time? Split evenly between things? Work, I teach and I nanny, these take up time. Going to class definately sturctures my day pretty well. Maybe time with friends, sometimes this is scheduled because I'm in town and have some extra time, sometimes it's already blocked out as this is time we are going to hang out.

What is my priority? Yesterday I forgot to make a phone call for work. This past week I missed getting 2 different papers in on time. I haven't prayed everyday. Am I too busy? Are there too many things trying to get my attention? Or do I not prioritize well?

In all reality it's probably a combination of both. Most of us find ourselves with too many responsibilities we just can't humanly do them all. Good intentions and well meaning gestures tend to get us in over our heads, or things just happen and take time from the day. So what now?

Well, I'm big on to do lists, so I have a large one decorated near by door. While my planner may be full of things I'm "suppose" to get done that day, I like this list better. It says - 1. Stop and smell the roses today, always take time to enjoy life 2. Don't worry so much, God has a plan 3. Care. about others and about yourself - everything else will fall into place

Sure there are problems and things we need to get done or worry about. But... I have a place to live, clothes, some food =), and friends and family who love me. God has taken care of me well and he will for you too. I hope you have time today to stop and smell the roses.

God Bless!

Camp

I have noticed in my experiences online and in "real" life (if i may say that) many of us who are still active in the church - as a young adult that is kind of rare - have some kind of ties with a church camp.

I have been a counselor for two years and last year I was the Health person "camp nurse" as well as a couple more things. I have also been camping and going to church camp since I was young through high school. I love it! I am now majoring in Youth Programming and Camp Managament and I don't think I could be happier.

Have you had some kind of tie or connection with a church camp? Has it had any effect on you and your connection with the church in general?

Just thinking again. Hope you have a great day and enjoy some time outdoors! (I saw it snowing earlier and I'm soooo excited!)

God Bless!

Warmth

I've been getting sick now for a couple days, but this morning was just miserable. I didn't want to get out of bed, my head hurt, my throat is sore, and i'm just dragging. However when I was walking outside in the warm sunshine things didn't seem so bad. I'm still sick and feeling icky - but that warmth was uplifting.

What warms you from the inside out? A good book and a cup of coffee? A long conversation with a friend? A quiet evening on the couch with your favorite movie? Sitting in a canoe early in the morning watching the sun rise and waiting for a fish to bite?

There are many things which give us warmth in many ways. These little uplifting moments brighten our days and make a sometimes gray world seem brighter. God often blesses us in ways which I don't know that I always see or recognize, but sometimes that little warmth can turn around an otherwise bad day.


God Bless

What does nature mean to you?

Studing Natural Resources has given me a different appreciation for nature and the beautiful creation God has provided for us. Sometimes we are inspired by a breaktaking view, sometimes we are invigorated by an exciting lightning storm, and sometimes we are calmed by a reflective moment near a quiet stream. Journalling in nature is a great way to connect with is as is outdoor activities of all sorts.

What does nature mean to you?

God Bless,
your sister in Christ~Erin

Rain

There is a time for everything, even if it does not bring joy. The rain is often sad and lonely however misunderstood. It refreshes new life and brings much needed water to the outside world. Even admist the gray clounds, mist, and rain drops reflect on how life is so often blurred through a window. Things are not understood clearly and often thought to be something they are not. Thank you God for putting things in our path that may not be clear right now, or even wanted like this rain. Help us remember to trust you and your hand in this world. Even the rain can be beautiful.

God Bless,
your sister in Christ

Serving our persecuted brothers and sisters

I have this desire to help people. I'm not exactly sure where it all came from, but most people who know me can tell you that I'll help anyone (even people my friends/family don't always approve of...) but one group my heart especially goes out to are persecuted Christians.

There are so many stories of the horrors Christians go through abroad. Children being killed by their parents for converting, churches being burned, church leaders imprisioned and beated. All for saying I believe in Jesus. And they continue to stand and take the bad with the good. Churches are growing, people are in need of God and are being found. I only wish it was less dangerous.

I was really very interested as well as repulsed by some of the things that I read about in the Jesus Freaks series as well as documentaries you can see on TV or articles you can read online. Many places in the world have Christians suffering - China, Africa, Laos, Pakistan, are where a few of the stories I read today took place. What can we do to help serve our brothers and sisters in Christ who are persecuted abroad?

Many organizations offer ways that we can use our money to help Christians in other places. Maybe to help with cost of living or more specific uses like bibles. Often groups take mission trips or extended stays to help a community. If you choose a route like this I encourage you at if all possible to stay more than a week, or keep contact with the people you meet. People aren't intersted in having Americans come over for a week of charity and then leave feeling they have done their duty and now feel better. We need to strive to be making relationships with those we meet and keep encouraging each other when we are no longer together.

The biggest thing we can do I believe is educate people. It is commonplace for christian children and teens to be abducted in countries and forced to convert or die. We worry about our children catching the flu or who they choose as friends! We need to help people to know and if possible experience (interactive games/presentations are great *persecution day) the hardships of our christian brothers and sisters. With great knowledge comes great responsibility. The more you know about what is happening in Darfur, China, or a million other places in the world the more you can relate and serve the needs present.

I encourage you to pray for those less fortunate than yourself. Ask God to protect them and give them courage to live out his will in their hardships.

God Bless,
your sister in Christ~Erin

One

So many thoughts run through my head in a day, I don't know what I would do if I couldn't write them down. Sometimes I wonder if anyone sees or notices any of the entries here. I am just one person, no one great or famous, but just me. Yet I am one person set on making a difference in the world.

I have been struggling lately for the want of ... acceptance maybe? acknowledgement? I'm not really sure really. I am noticed and loved by those whom I love around me, and truely I am blessed yet I have this disire for more. The crazy thing is I don't know if I can even handle more. What is the drive in me to get out there, do something, help someone? I can't even get all of my homework done on time...

I love this quote by Helen Keller, "I am only one, but I am one. I can not do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something I can do."

Our campus ministry needs leadership, love, God, and more students. Our church needs programming for young adults. Our young women need to know they are loved, special, and wanted. I see so many needs, and have so many needs of my own, where do I go from here?

I am hopeful that things will happen, and i'll continue to work on the needs God places before me as they come. One grain of rice can tip the scale and I encourage others to continue on with the work God has sent in front of you. I pray for your strength and courage as well as your endurance for we all know that life isn't easy, but it is worth it.

Much love,
God Bless,
your sister in Christ~Erin

Make them hear you

I had an interesting conversation with a friend today about what we can do with our campus ministry. Many campus ministries are having a difficult time gaining members or reaching out to other students.

A song comes to mind from the musical Ragtime. One of the main characters "Coalhouse" sings "Make them hear you" when he is encouraging his friends to not let the issue at hand just die. It is easy to follow a leader, but what can YOU do to make a difference, is what the song focuses on. (in the early 1900s the issue is racism and unfair/unjust treatment of african americans). He says your sword can be a sermon or the power of the pen, teach every child to raise his voice and then my brothers then - will justic be demanded by ten million rightous men, make them hear you, make them hear you!

Our campus ministry likes to focus on social justice and taking action in our community. How can we bring about awareness and can we make others hear us? Sure, but I think the real issue is can we make others care?

to hear the song try this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUkwQdHpLtk

Jesus said in the great commission, go out and make disciples. How do we accomplish this?

I wish you the peace of Christ and wisdom to spread his word,
your sister in Christ~Erin

I wish you Enough

I recieved this in an e-mail not too long ago and really fell in love with it. It reminds me of Ephesians where we are given the advice that there is a time for everything.

Lately I have not been patient. I want to graduate. I want to move into town. I want to get married and have kids. I want to ______! There never seems to be an end to my list and I never seem to have enough I have or take the time to appreciate what it going on right in front of me.

In all the love that I can give to you my friend, I wish you these things and I thank God for all of the blessings including HIS time to my life.

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright no matter how
gray the day may appear.

I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun even more.

I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive and
everlasting.

I wish you enough pain so that even the smallest of joys in life
may appear bigger.

I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.

I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.

I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.


God Bless,
your sister in Christ~Erin

Prophet

When I hear the word Prophet, I think of the great stories I have heard about Isaiah and Jeremiah, Jonah and Moses. Big important . . . men. Leaders, sometimes anyway. People that were closely connected to God and helped to spread his word (and sometimes his anger) to the people. Yet in the past few years this word has often been connected with me.

The first time was near the end of our youth disciple bible study. An interesting experience, but we'll save that for another time. Many of my friends and I had taken it together and we were sharing what spritual gifts we saw in each other. Several people had shared that they felt I had the gift of a prophet. This really surprised me. I didn't really understand what it was or why people saw this in me. So I kinda just let it go.

A little while ago I found a young adult methodist site with The Upper Room. There are some great blogs, devotions, and tons of resources online specifically geared towards young adults. I have started to be more active on this site and yesterday I found a "spritual types test". Once and a while I like to take these little quizzes, so I thought, why not? Obviously many of us are very different in our spirituality so maybe I'll be insightful. And what category did I find?

Prophet.

The other categories where sage, lover, and mystic. Here is some of what the description said.
You are a Prophet, a crusader with a kingdom spirituality. You experience God best through serving others. You value competence and knowledge, and are good at leading and influencing others. Prophets are devoted to their causes, often becoming assertive and aggressive as you implement a vision of the world as God's kingdom on earth. You are our heroic change agents and we admire you for that. Single-minded and deeply focused, you aren't content until society has been transformed.
Prophets are the least represented spiritual type in the general population. You also are the hardest spiritual type to be around, mainly because you make the rest of us feel guilty for not having the same zeal for change that you do. We admire you for sacrificing your personal life for your hope of the kingdom realized on earth, but we are uncomfortable around martyrs.

You have a courageous and sturdy idealism that takes responsibility for change. But, your passion for transforming society can lead you to become impatient with congregations and their perceived lack of concern. You fit best in a hospitable, like-minded community that shares your vision.

Nevertheless, be careful not to become so involved in your cause that you neglect your inner life. Attend as much to your inner life as outer life. One will nourish the other.

Like many descriptions I thought there were just alot of fancy words that everyone likes to hear and think of themselves. But as I read the other descriptions and took the quix again with some different answers I came up with the same result that I feel really does fit me.

Perhaps this is something we need to focus more on in general. How are we as a people of God encouraging each others gifts? How are we providing outlets for different types of spirituality? Do we even talk about it?

Lord, I pray for understanding and guidence as I continue to seek you and find where you have use for me. I also pray for others, that they also connect within a community that encourages them and their relationship with you.

God Bless,
your sister in Christ~Erin

Jeremiah one of my favorite prophets (he was young and passionate!) says this in Chapter 29:10a-12 I will come to you and fulfill my gracious promise to bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

check it out at www.methodx.org

Insignificant

I get an online devotional from The Upstairs Room (a methodist devo magazine) in my e-mail everyday. Like anything, sometimes they are great and sometimes I don't connect with them. I really liked the message in todays however. Often as I struggle to try and make a difference in the world I feel completly insignificant. Like there is nothing I can possibly do to make anything any better. Yet the message in this devotional is very simple and heart warming. God has made me and chosen me for specific things in the world and what I do makes a difference to him.

THE VALUE OF OUR WORK
_________________________

Acts 1:21-26 (NRSV)

So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us--one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection." So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed and said, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place." And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.

_________________________

Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord . . . since you know that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward; you serve the Lord Christ.
- Colossians 3:23-24 (NRSV)
_________________________


SCRIPTURE mentions Matthias, the apostle who took Judas Iscariot's place, only once. Christians today remember him because five short verses in Acts describe the apostles casting lots to discover whom God would select to complete their number. Unlike the towering figures of Peter and Paul, we know nothing about Matthias or his accomplishments after becoming an apostle. Some might question whether he did anything significant, since he is not mentioned again.

We all have moments when we question the value of our work for Christ. We praise God for missionaries and for Christians who care for the sick, but we may wonder how our contributions can ever compare to their achievements. When I have these thoughts, the example of Matthias comforts me. God knew Matthias's heart and made him an apostle. Though Matthias did not win acclaim, he was chosen by God to fill a particular role.

As Christians, we can be sure God also has work for each of us. Whether we win wide acclaim or are known only by a few, our work's true value is found in our faithfulness.
written by Matthew Ross

Hope you enjoyed this. The upper room has lots to offer including a newer young adult area, MethodX. Check it out, I like it. (www.methodx.org)
God Bless,
your sister in Christ
~Erin

Focus

I find it extremly hard some days to focus on any one thing. There are so many thougts flooding through my mind that I often waste so much time doing what ends up to be well... nothing.
Still at the beginning of a new year it is at time for trying new things, getting into new grooves, making an effort to do things better. I have been trying to get in a daily devotional/prayer time yet so often I fail to do it. There are other things I have been better at - eating breakfast, doing some leisure reading before bed, but the God time is just not something I can ever seem to get focused on.
I put a picture of a candle because it means so many different things. Hope, light, warmth, yet all so focused in the one flame. When I light a candle I do much better at focusing on God. To try and quiet my mind and my spirit. Let go of my concerns and my worries and let God in.
The delima I feel like I face every day is when I do get to that relaxed state of letting God into my life, how do I keep it? A thought I so often get caught up on is from John 15 and also mentioned in Pauls letters to the Corinthians. The idea that we live in the world, but we must not be (or behave) of the world. That we as christians are different. The only way this difference is acheived is if we keep that presence of God with us and let him live through us. Sounds so great and wonderful, yet we all know how easy it is to get caught up in things of this world.
So i reflect on the candle, and pray for God to be with me, as I also pray he is with you.

God Bless,
your sister in Christ
Erin

Technology ?!?

SO many conversations have come up lately wondering if technology is a good thing or a bad thing... no one seems to know. Our younger generations can't seem to live "unplugged". Assignments are given online and expected to be printed and brought to class or simply handed in online making it neccessary to have a computer with internet access for education. Communication has gone from home phones to cell phones to email to instant messenging and networking sites therefore to stay in touch with anyone the fastest and most convient way is online. Then there is the personal comforts of text messenging, digital cameras, and ipods which can now be obtained all in one gaget! We can all see great advatages in these changes, but probably also problems.

Just some interesting things I think about as I surf other blogs and sites. I often struggle as a young adult in the church feeling like there aren't many around me "like me". But as I over analyze everything (i know i know, but i can't help it) I wonder it has anything to do with our poor personal communication skills? I find hope in sites online where there seem to be people who are excited about their faith and young.

Sigh, like most hard topics I don't think there is an answer. However, one thing I learned as a young child, everything in moderation - technology may be like chocolate cake, fabulous and wonderful but not the relational nutrition that comes from a good dinner.

God Bless,
Erin
your sister in Christ

1 Timothy 4:12 (paraphrased) Don't let them put you down just because your are younger! But love them and set an example in the faith with your actions of love, purity, honesty, and integrity.

Making a Difference

Oh the world of challenges. I have spent the last hour on a variety of Methodist sites just trying to wrap my head around any resources I can use to help get our Wesley Foundation off the ground. Yesterday at church I felt God challenging me again, that now I'm comfortably settled in here it's time to get stuff going again.

In my last community, it didn't take long before I was acustomed to the church, campus ministry, and staring a youth ministry. So many people were excited and God was present. It was beautiful - challenging, yet beautiful.

However I try to keep the focus on God and not myself, but I feel a calling to do something in my new community of Stevens Point, Wi. I have already begun teaching sunday school and getting aquainted with other church members, there is already a youth ministry in progress, and there is a form of a campus ministry entitled "Wesley Society".

I love being Methodist and I love reaching out to others providing (especially to young people) an open environment where they can openly ask questions about faith and their beliefs and thoughts in the world. Saddly our churches do not often offer this opened enviornment that our young people so desperatley need. I do not always know how I feel about faith or God or how social issues fit into my beliefs and I need to have open discussion about these questions.

I also feel that besides an open warm loving environment our young people need to be challenged. Mind, body, and Spirit. Bible studies!! Even if they are by e-mail or blogs or once a week we need to be keeping our young people in the word. Service- we are blessed with so much more than the rest of the world and even as a poor college student I have alot to give. My time, my effort, my prayers, my presence, my encouragement, and I will work for food! Bring on the work projects! Spirit, I also feel that it is important to help other young people find a worship opportunity that helps them feel the spirit. Be it music, a contemporary service, art in worship, skits, dance teams, or services - it is important that our young people find a connection with worship and opportunities to serve here.

Yes this can be alot of work leading a group for young people. Yes young people are unpridictable in when and where and how often they can meet. So what if many of us are hard to pin down. There are ways to help meet the needs of our young people and most of us are not going to seek them out in the church. They need to be provided in an open flexible way that it is not intimidating. And for those out there who are trying know it takes time. It takes about 3 years for a program to get off it's feet, so keep at it! Keep praying, and keep asking God what he needs from us to provide ministry to our young adults.

1 Timothy 4:12
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.


So to my problems. . . (if you don't mind)
The wesley society here seems singularily focused on Peace and Social Justice. No bible study, no worship, it is not considered a campus ministry, but a special student group. Sigh, I have an issue with this. I think peace and social justice is a great focus for a group, but that was not Wesleys only focus. Peace and social justice came out of ministries. A way to express our christian love towards others and fight for their rights. A great mission but not the starting point, right?

I would like to have an online bible study (college students are busy). Set up a place to have discussion, switch it to who has what day. and keep it short and simple.

I would like to share an open meal together. Try to have a general subject of converstation (love, peace, injustice, study tips) but just time to be in christian community with each other.

I would like to join other groups on campus to reach out and do mission work. Volunteer at the salvation army, work with Habitat for Humanity, go on mission trips.

I would like to also focus on special events. Educating others about different faiths, christian views on sexuality, social issues, have open discussions with speakers who know more about topics. But other events as well such as Dinner and a Movie night, retreats, sledding extravaganzas, time to make personal relationships.

Then I notice these are all things "I" want to do, but is this what I am called to do? Sigh, I feel that this is a yes. . . God has given me the opportunities to learn about group development and human relationships and how to make them better and give people a good environment. I feel confident that he has given me this experience and knowledge so I might use it in ministry.

Hopefully the needs of young people will continue being met and cared for more than ever.

Peace
your sister in Christ,
Erin

Ephesians

Sometimes when I am doing Bible studies on my own or with a friend I like to start at chapter one of a book and read the whole thing. Today I started Ephesians. Very interesting words in that first chapter as Paul simply encourages the people. Nothing to profound or complex, just simply praising God and encouraging them to praise and bless God as well for all of the great things in their lives.

I can take a positive lesson from Paul today as well. As much as it is very important for each of us to have others in our lives that encourage us and are there for us to help us grow and pick us up when we fall, I often forget that God is there to do these things as well. He does deserve to be praised and blessed simply because he is God. He has given me more than I could ever ask for, yet somedays I am still not happy. Today I was saddened by the cold rain, waking up early, and having classes, but look at how many of those things are blessings in my life! The rain helps feed the beautiful plants and forests all around me that I like to enjoy. I get to wake up in my own bedroom in a beautiful house to prepare for a day of learning and growing. And I have some excellent classes in subjects that will lead me to a career that I love and can teach children about God everyday. and for all of this I complain?

Praise God for you are a gracious father providing us with more than we can imagine and sometimes even notice. Thank you for being there for me forever and always.

Much love,
Erin
your sister in Christ

Change, Changing, and Changeless

As a college student change is my life. I change jobs or homes or something big about every 4 months. I have just made a change in schools and am trying to adjust. Things all around me keep changing and sometimes in the river of change I just want to grab a rock and keep things the same for a minute!

Reguardless of how we feel life is forever changing around us and when we try to recreate an awesome experience from the past it almost always comes crashing down around us. Each day is different, yet sometimes can seem monotomously the same. When we get into habits we can get into ruts and sometimes lose the sense of wonder around us at the little things. This I feel is when I get the most frustrated with change.

I want to relax and hang out with friends like I used to - but I have to go meet friends. I have to go to class, but the path to class and the beauty outdoors can be a pleasant new surprise if I let it be. I can affect some change for the better just with my attitude.

The idea of a changeless God is one that has caused me some difficult thought. Here are some scriptures about it:
Numbers 23:19
God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?
1 Samuel 15:29
He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a man, that he should change his mind."
Malachi 3:6
"I the LORD do not change. So you, O descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.

and often in philosophy or theology discussions the fact that God is eternal (always was, is, and out of time) is understood as changeless, a constant.

Not sure if you can see where I struggle with this concept, but I do. At times it seems as if the God referred to in the old testament and the new are two different people. Is that not a change? To go from commanding the dystruction of whole towns or peoples to teaching a Gospel of love toward all and peace? Where the situations just so that He knew ahead of time that at this time He needed to be harsh and unforgiving while later he would choose a different path? Does He always know what the future will hold and the choices we are going to make? The ideas we will create and as a human race advance the world? Did he know of computers and airplanes and medicines?

ALl of these thoughts continue to evolve around the free will question. Do we really have free will make choices that change our future or does God know us so well that he simply knows what choices we will make?

Just some random thoughts to spread into the vast universe. God Bless you and yours,
In Peace
Erin
your sister in Christ

an ending verse
Jeremiah 33:3: "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."

This is St. John's Episcopal Church we stayed at on our mission trip to Ocean Springs Mississippi.

Pray

Some days I have alot to say, some days I don't. When I am bursting is where you will generally find me blogging. But the thing is. . . God doesn't just want to hear about it when I'm in trouble, or bursting with thought that I can't keep it inside. He wants to hear everything. Everyday.

One of my roomates is in a long distance relationship. She isn't able to drive right now which really keeps her from seeing him often. But that doesn't keep them from talking. We joke, but at night, it seems like she is always on the phone. They will talk at least 3 times a day. In the morning, in the evening, and to say goodnight. It's the cutest thing ever (have to admit, sometimes it's alittle neasueas). However, they make the committment to make their relationship work.

Any relationship requires work. Time and dedication is all. . . God loves us, but how can we return that love? Be there in the relationship with him. Take time to pray and listen, weather you have alot to say or not.

God Bless,
your sister in Christ

Words

We live in a culture of communication. Language is so very important, what would we do without our cell phones, e-mail, memo's (dry erase memos), or conversations? Communications Studies is an entire major in our university. It's a big deal.

But how often do we catch ourselves speaking before we think? How many times do we wish we didn't just say that? Or that someone else didn't just say that to us. It is not only in words but in tone, in conotation, in the impression given over the internet of what we understood someone's words to mean. How often are those words hurtful, condesending, or teasing and mean? How often are those words encouraging, uplifting, or just meaningful and positive?

One negative attitude can bring down 7 people around you, and it takes quite a bit to bring people out of a negative attitude. What kind of a world do we want to surround ourselves with? Do we want to be a positive influence? I've noticed that your attitude really shows through the little comments that are made. How much to we pay attention to the little things we say? I bet you can remember specifically a recent negative comment about you, but how about a positive one (or several?).

So where does our role as Christians play in the game of language? Well in Proverbs 17:27, it is written:
27Whoever restrains his words has knowledge,
and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.
and in Proverbs 21:23:
23Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue
keeps himself out of trouble.

I know my mouth gets me in trouble sometimes, or just not using my head first. God tells us that our words do make a difference and if we are wise we will think about the things we say. In Ecclesiastes chapter 3, we are reminded there is a time for everything, including being silent as well as speaking. I pray today that we all may think about the things we say and if we are being a positive influence on the people around us, or bringing others down with us.

God Bless you and yours,
In Peace~Erin

Ecclesiastes 3:7
7a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

Prayer Requests

Ephesians 6:18ish. .. The Message
In the same way, prayer is essential. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

We all go through ups and downs in life is it is sooo important to have friends to help you through. One of the best things we can do for friends is simply love them and be there for them. That doesn't mean giving them advice all the time, but more often listening and being a shoulder to cry on. Help them meet their needs during difficult times, and they'll help you. Eugene Peterson says "keep your eyes open" or simply be there and know what's going on.

Another thing we need to do for our friends is pray for them. Pray for them in their time of need as well as everyday. For their relationships, health, stress, whatever. But especially in the difficult times. I like how the message puts it - keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

Feel free to put prayer requests here. I will pray for you, and many others will to. Here are a few of my prayer requests.

*A few months ago we found out my grandfather had a tumor in his leg. He had surgery and is still slowly recovering, but tests did show the tumor was cancerous. Prayers for him and our family.

*My roomate suffers from siezures, and tomorrow woud have made 3 months without one, which is huge because it allows her to drive again. But this morning, she had another small one. They are treatable with medication, but still a very difficult thing for her to deal with. Especially with her not being able to drive. Prayers for her and her family.

*I have several young girls I talk to often who have had rough teenage years often filled with depression and many things. Prayers for them and other youth as they grow up.

*I am transferring and leaving my newly formed youth group. Prayers for the church that they will grow in Christ.

*I am going to a new camp this summer. Prayers for all summer camps and the staff and campers there.

always~
your sister in Christ~Erin

GROW

I always have good intentions for this site. . . and someday the world will have 30 hours in a day and perhaps I will live up to those dreams? Some of it doesn't bother me much, because I tend to write when I am upset, frustrated, or depressed. But this blog gets much hopes and dreams, so that's not always the case.

I was at IV (intervarsity) last night, it is a christian fellowship group on my campus. Every thursday night we have large group where we worship, play some game, listen to a speaker, and pray together. Our speaker last night was a man I have met several times, Pastor Dominick Israel. He is the Methodist pastor from St. Luke's a small dying church on the north side. Pastor Dominick is from India. He spoke about many things. .. his personal life experiences in India and other places but mainly he simply encouraged and challenged us.

He taught us two great acrynyms to help us in our daily life.
ACTS
How to pray
Adoration Confession Thanksgiving Supplication (asking, or praying for Someone else)
i learned this is confirmation as well, but i really like it. Sometimes we find it very difficult to pray, what to say? Doesn't God know?

But I really like this one
How to GROW
Go to God always/everyday!
Read the word always/everyday!
Open yourself to his work always/everyday!
Witness always/everyday!
It can often slip from us (like this blog does from you) too keep up with our daily quiet times. But how do we grow without them? How do we know God without them? How do we serve him without them? We don't. We often slowly fall into behaving in the christian way without the internal desire. We serve because it is right now because we are so joyful it simply flows out of us. We pray because we should not because we are bursting with emotion and ready to share it with our best friend. We try to save others for the kingdom when it's convient and easy for us to do instead of being in touch with God and allowing him to use us for his work. We don't save people. We never will save a single soul. God will and if he is willing, we may somehow have the opportunity to be of service for him, but we often forget why and who we do things for.

Don't forget to GROW!

God Bless!
your sister in Christ~Erin

Encouragement

I love some of the letters in the new testement, not always for what they teach, but for the example those writing it set to fellow christians to care for each other. I love keeping in touch with fellow christian friends. Hearing about the joys in their life and praying for them when things are more difficult. Here are some verses from 2 Timothy chapter 1 i really like:

Encouragement to Be Faithful

3I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. 5I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 6For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

I do thank God for my friends and unfortunatly most of them live far away. However the internet has made life a little easier to keep in touch. I love the few opportunities I get to spend time with them, and pray for them everyday thanking God for them.

It is also important to be there for friends. Not only to love them, but to be a real friend. Listen to them, help them with your experience, pray with them, and most of all affirm and encourage them! They are a beautiful child of God and do wonderful things. We each have talents and it is so important to be able to encourage each other and know we are doing well. Especially with their faith.

always praying for you!
God Bless!
your sister in Christ~Erin

Commitment

So i've taken a break. Quite a long break, but hey i'm in college and things get busy! Anyhow, I'm back! And like at the beginning of any semester I am ready to renew some commitments. Most of us have goals that we strive for to help us make our lives more meaningful, or just to get done all the things we "want" or feel we somehow must do. I have a few goals of my own as well.

* Do a personal devotion every day
* Read for fun everyday
* Write more (blogs or journal)
* Keep in touch with people
* Pray

These are specific things I want to commit to (perhaps again) that i've fallen short on. Even if no one cares, I know it helps me to write them down and I encourage you to do the same. Although I may only be 20, I do have some experience which I always try to share, mostly however I simply share my questions, thoughts, and doubts about anything that comes into my head.

Yesterday at our lunch we discussed Spiritual Growth. It is important for all of us to grow, physically, mentally, and spiritually. But how? Well exercise and a healthy diet, studying and going to school, and spending time with God. For all of us these are different, but it is important that we find our own ways that we grow spiritually. There will be periods of no growth, and short times of extreme growth, but not without the effort. I encourage you to find what helps you grow, commit to it, and find a partner or friend to keep you accountable.

Always there for you is God. I only try my best.
your sister in Christ~Erin