Living Stone

Powerful in the Original German- O Holy Night!

2011-12-19T10:12:00.000-08:00

My favorite traditional Christmas Carol...
Today, I stumbled across the literal English translation from the original German and was richly blessed by it's beautiful gospel worship...

Midnight, Christians, it is the solemn hour,

When God-man descended to us

To erase the stain of original sin

And to end the wrath of His Father.

The entire world thrills with hope

On this night that gives it a Savior.

People kneel down, wait for your deliverance.

Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer,

Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer!

May the ardent light of our Faith

Guide us all to the cradle of the infant,

As in ancient times a brilliant star

Guided the Oriental kings there.

The King of Kings was born in a humble manger;

O mighty ones of today, proud of your greatness,

It is to your pride that God preaches.

Bow your heads before the Redeemer!

The Redeemer has overcome every obstacle:

The Earth is free, and Heaven is open.

He sees a brother where there was only a slave,

Love unites those that iron had chained.

Who will tell Him of our gratitude,

For all of us He is born, He suffers and dies.

People stand up! Sing of your deliverance,

Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer,

Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer!

Wednesday Scoop 'O Soup

2011-11-16T10:55:00.001-08:00

Welcome to my favorite "Tried&True" soup recipe!
Veggie Minestrone

This is one of those recipes that is so familiar I can shop for it and prepare it from memory.....but I remember when it was new to me.

I remember googling soup recipes that day.
I was sitting in a brand new kitchen, in a newly built house. It was my home, but I was 707 miles from anything I'd ever known.
My husband (of only 5 months) had just driven away to his first day in a new office, and I was gearing up to go buy groceries to stock our bare fridge and cupboards. We had just moved from our born-and-raised hometown of Racine, WI. to NorthWest Arkansas so that Steve could fulfill a 2 year rotation in his job with SCJ.

My eyes landed on this recipe. It sounded good.
I added the ingredients to my list, and off I went, with map in hand, and directions to what I thought was the nearest market. Later, I would learn that in my 18 mile drive, I had passed 3 other markets that would have been much nearer to our new house. =)

Those were hard and very, very good days! Steve and I had only each other, and we loved it!!! God was so faithful - sovereignly caring for even the littlest details - like leading me to a soup recipe that would become a family favorite for years to come!

Ingredients:
4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth (from 32-oz carton)
4 cups tomato juice
1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 medium carrots, sliced (1 cup)
2 medium celery stalks, chopped (1 cup)
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms (3 oz)
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 1/2 cups uncooked rotini pasta (4 1/2 oz)
Shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired

Step 1:
In 4- to 5-quart slow cooker, mix all ingredients except pasta and cheese.
Step 2:
Cover; cook on Low heat setting 7 to 8 hours.
Step 3:Stir in pasta. Increase heat setting to High; cover and cook 15 to 20 minutes longer or until pasta is tender. Sprinkle each serving with cheese.
Note: I prefer to cook the pasta while I'm preparing the soup, immediately rinsing in cold water and coating with a small amount of Olive Oil....then adding into the soup for the last 5-10 min to heat through. This avoids their becoming too soft!

Wednesday Scoop O'Soup

2011-11-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

My Man's favorite. Heavy on the chicken, cooked-just-right egg noodles, in a spicy (thanks to Mom's secret added kick) steamy broth. The first time Steve had this soup was during our dating days. I was way far away (too far away) in Dallas, and he was sick here in Racine. I petitioned my Mom to take care of him, and given the fact that he still requests "your mom's chicken noodle soup - you know - the one she brought me when I was sick" to this day, I'd say she did a good job of it. =)

"Your" Mom's Chicken Noodle Soup:

4-5 large frozen chicken breasts, cooked and cut into bite size pieces.
32 oz. Chicken broth. My Mom makes her's by straining the chicken water and adding salt to taste.
I like the Organic Free Range Chick Broth by Pacific Natural Foods.

2 C chopped celery
2C chopped carrots
1 C sweet yellow onion, diced.
AND.... here's Mom's secret... 1 Tbl Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce.
(There is nothing like it on sore throats and swollen sinuses.)

1 16 oz Bag of Reames Frozen, Homemade Egg Noodles. Freezer section at the market.

Add all ingredients, except the noodles, together in slow cooker on low (for all day), or in pot on the stove.
Simmer until veggies are tender.
This recipe can be prepared to this point and then frozen for ease in later use.

Add the egg noodles and continue to simmer for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Serve hot, be filled, and feel better!

Top Ten

2011-10-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

1) Kaylene Grace is walking. She's extremely cautious, most likely evidence of inheriting her momma's lack of natural athletic ability, hah, but she's tottering and waddling around our home and absolutely the cutest thing in the process.

2)Steve and I celebrated 9 Years of covenant love. 3 different houses called home. 4 babies treasured. 1 baby dearly missed. 2 career transitions. 6.5 years of middle school ministry. Countless falls deeper in love. Endless laughter.  A zillion failures. A zillion forgivenesses. So much more of His grace than we know to express...

3) My friend, Mary! The way she comes to my house to accommodate my little one. The way she goes right for the heart in accountability, listening with the most sincere expressions of concern. Her transparency and humility. The way she remembers and follows up what has been shared. The way she gets and shares my excitement for the gospel applied to every situation. I am so thankful for this friend and sister in Christ!

4) Watching Glendon participate in soccer camp. There is nothing more entertaining and fun than a bunch of 1st graders playing the game with an energy and intensity  that abundantly makes up for any lack in skill.

5) Answering the phone to hear the voice of my dear sweet Grandfather who is battling through progressive stages of congestive heart failure. His voice was labored because catching his breath is hard, but the encouragement and exhortation he shared was priceless. It was a conversation that promoted only the praise of the Lord! Death has truly lost it's sting through Christ!

6) A series of pictures and texts that streamed in from my ultra sophisticated brother who was away on business in New York City! Tim spread the love of Christ to a man who tried to steal his subway card by freely giving it to him in Jesus' name!

7) Psalm 22 - taught and discussed at RBC this morning. Wallowing around in the psalm to which Jesus pointed the hearts and minds of those present at His cross.  Even in His deepest suffering, He was about the fulfilling and finished work of the gospel to be made real in needy hearts. The Holy one was forsaken and afflicted in my place. Now I stand in His righteousness!

8) My parents who lovingly watched our children for three days, allowing Steve and I to kidnap each other away to one of our favorite haunts yet. The time away was such an undeserved time of joy and fun in being together...and we're still hearing the stories of what fun our kiddos had on their own special retreat!

9) My SG girl, Olivia who I call, "OOOoooooLIVia". Kind, joy-filled and super cute is only the start with this girl! She loves Jesus, but she wants to love Him more. She wants to be so filled with His love, that loving others would just flow out of her surrendered heart. She desires to testify to His work in her life. She wants to share the gospel in a real way with the people in her life. She gets teary when she talks about God's work in her life. She puts others first. I prayed that God would enable me to wisely build into Olivia. I came away richly encouraged by her and praising God for her!

10) Cookies. In the mailbox. Homemade. Delicious - reminders of how we are blessed through a certain youth Pastor and his girl!

11)The lyrics to this song by Arron Shust:
That you would leave Your throne
And make this world Your home
Forsaking majesty
Embracing mundane
And all of its shame

You walked our dusty streets
Healing a world in need
You looked into the eyes
Of sinners like me
Setting us free

What wondrous love is this
What wondrous love is this
That You would lay aside Your glory for my soul
What wondrous love is this
What wondrous love is this
That You would lay down Your life for my soul

Enduring agony
You bore the cross for me
Betrayed by those You love
You took all our blame
Bearing our pain

They nailed Your feet
They nailed Your hands
You are the God
Who understands
You know rejection
Loss and grief
You loved a world
That nailed You to a tree

Wednesday Scoop O'Soup

2011-10-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

Today's soup recipe is a Bower kitchen favorite making it's debut in the Schulz home.
It's delicious aromas have led to some significant snitching on my part - Yummy!

Hearty Ham and White Bean Soup

Ingredients

1 Tb olive oil

1 sweet onion, diced

1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 large carrots, peeled, halved lengthwise ans sliced thin

1/2 cabbage, cored, cut into bit-size shreds

12 ounces lean ham steak, diced into small pieces

1 quart chicken broth

1 14.5 can petite-diced tomatoes

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, undrained

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Heat the oil over medium high in a soup kettle.

Add onion, saute until soft and golden, about five minutes.

Add the Italian seasoning and saute until fragrant, about one minute.

Add the remaining ingredients, then bring to a full simmer, skimming any foam that rises to the surface.

~I prepared the soup to this point yesterday, stored in the fridge over night and now have simmering on low in our slow cooker.

Reduce heat to low, simmer gently (partially covered) until the vegetables are just cooked and flavors blended, about 15 minutes.

Stir in the parsley; cover and let stand for five minutes

Top Ten + 1

2011-10-16T17:39:00.000-07:00

1 - Tuesday evening. A hard night. An evening of failure, many tears, and desperate awareness of my neediness. Because I yearn for His likeness to be formed in me, this is a highlight!

2- Wednesday morning. The power of God's living and active word never ceases to grab me, wash me, change me, empower me.
Ps72:12-14 "For He delivers the needy when he calls, the poor and him who has no helper. He has pity on the weak and the needy, and saves the lives of the needy. From oppression and violence He redeems their life, and precious is their blood in His sight."

3- Steve. The tender and wise way in which he shepherds me through such times. The way he listens, willingly making himself vulnerable. The way he gives correction through the word and gentle prayer over me. I don't deserve his love and leading - that's for sure. He continues to be the hugest human expression of God's grace in my life!

4 - Soup recipes. A new one experienced and embraced this week and thanks to my friend, Libby, several more lined up to be enjoyed in the weeks ahead!

5 - Lauren. Sister in Christ. Friend. Co-laborer in youth ministry. Jesus Christ is shining bright in this sweet gal's love for others. I have observed her tangibly reaching out and extending welcome twice this past week in ways that challenged me!

6 - Glendon received correction and discipline from God-given authorities at school this week. The platform this gave Steve and I for proclaiming the rescue that is found in Christ to our son was huge. How God worked in my mother-heart's reaction to this situation exercised and strengthened my faith in ways I would never chose to by-pass.

7 - A bunch of Middle Schoolers, flashlight games. Too-yummy snacks. Hot cider and cozy bonfire. Fall Fun Night with the MS youth was such a joy-filled night. Best part was the part where we all gathered around the fire and shared about God's work in our lives. Just about the time I think I love these kids as much as I ever will, God does something to further knit my heart to them...

8 - CHELLE! The way she loves Jesus! The way she drives a go-cart like a crazy lady. The way she carves pumpkin welcome signs and opens her home. The way she serves with heart and soul. The way she brought her new employer to church to hear about Jesus this morning!

9 - Pumpkin Farm. Yummy family fun! I commend to all within driving distance the amazing Salted Carmel Pecan Fudge we discovered at Borsynski's Farm!!!

10 - The rich blessing of spiritual fellowship given to us through Jesus Christ. On Friday morning, with a dear friend and sister who knows how to literally "pour courage" into my heart. On Sunday afternoon, with one of my SG girls who loves to laugh and talk about Jesus! I treasured both!

11 - Chris Tomlin's rendition of "All The Way My Savior Leads Me".... a theme of my heart throughout this past week.
"You lead me and keep me from falling,
You carry me close to Your heart,
And surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me."

Wednesday Scoop O' Soup...

2011-10-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

Today's soup recipe is bubbling away in my crock pot for the first time - thanks to my friend, Kathy.

Kathy is wife, mother, step-mom(to my cousins), and grandmother. While our paths rarely cross in person, facebook has given us connection, where her love for her Saviour, her husband, cooking, the outdoors, and pilates has been of great encouragement to my walk...

Thank you, Kathy, for posting this recipe. I have been eager to mix it up in the Schulz kitchen ever since!

Chipotle-Kissed Red Bean and Sweet Potato Chili

1 tablespoon olive oil or water or broth
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 medium red pepper, seeded and chopped
1 large garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder, to taste
1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
14 1/2 ounces crushed tomatoes
15 ounces canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups water
salt — to taste
1 tablespoon canned chili peppers — chipotle in adobo sauce

In a large skillet, sauté the onions, pepper and garlic in oil or substitutes, cover and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chili powder and cook 30 seconds,then add the sweet potatoes and stir to coat evenly with the spices.
Transfer the mixture to a 4-6 quart slow cooker and add the beans and tomatoes. Season with salt and cover, cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.
Add the chipotles just before serving and adjust the seasonings to taste.
Source: Fresh from the Vegetarian Slow Cooker

Top 10 From Last Week.

2011-10-09T18:15:00.000-07:00

1) Quote from Staupitz, a friend of Martin Luther's who was urged to insist on Luther's recanting... his reply, "I have often tried, but I am not equal to him in ability and command of Scripture."
I desire and cry out for this kind of love and grasp of scripture's truth!

2) This 12 minute testimony of the Watters family's love for Victor, and of his love for Jesus...changed how I pray for my children. The parent who cries out in faith, receives and rejoices in whatever it takes for God to grab our kid's hearts...even life-taking disease. Watch it!

3) This week she sat down with my small group of middle school girls as their new discipler, but 7 years ago, she was the awkward, struggling 11 yr old, grappling with gospel truth. I was the awkward, struggling leader with far to go in learning how to disciple her... God's grace covers all! He granted us relationship then, now, and every season in between. It is joy to see God's grace unfolding in her life as she is now the leader who will cry out for her girl's hearts and then see God answer in powerful ways!

4) My first field trip as a Mom/chaperon. God ordained drive time with Glendon and two of his classmates, Dominic and Lucas. Because of Domnic's position in the car nearest to me, we had LOTS of conversation together. God gave me several platforms to clearly share the gospel with him!

5) 15 women and Psalm 16. Saturday morning. Bible study. Accountability. Prayer and Worship!

6) Annual Leader's meeting where parents of current youth students come together with the leaders to discuss youth ministry! I was challenged afresh with the call to reach my girls with the Word, Prayer and Love!

7) An unplanned visit with my friend, Carol during the library story time, leading to an impromptu discussion about our prayer lives - where God is drawing us into deeper communion with him. This conversation was 15 minutes of edification on steroids!!!

8) Deliverance and Victory as only God can give...worked out in the life of our Glendon. Our son initiated, with tears of struggle in his eyes, a decision completely of his own volition, to forgo the privilege of taking a certain toy to school (something his teacher had given him permission for) because "God was telling him that having this toy there would distract him from his work and loving other people." I have been praying Ps51:6 daily for G..."You delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart." God alone could work this evidence of grace in Glendon's heart...and in so doing, continues to deliver me from my sinful tendency to seek control over my son's behaviour and environment. I do not know what God will do with Glendon, but this one thing I know from the bottom of my heart. He is mighty to save and deliver. His power over sin is great!

9) Our family hike in the woods. We took several pictures, but none quite captured the beauty of the sun, colorful leaves and delightful breezes.

10) Laughter. The amount of sheer laughter Steve and I have shared this weekend over the most random of topics! The joy of fun-ness together is such a gift and treasure!

Wednesday Scoop O'Soup

2011-10-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

During the school year, Wednesday nights are soup nights. I make a big batch of something hot, bubbly, and somewhat nutritious (I need more help from my friend, Libby on the nutritious part =). There's salad and bread for the side, making a quick and easy supper before we fly out the door to all that constitutes Wednesday night for the Schulz 5. Most soup recipes run quite large and reheat well, so we always save the leftovers to simmer in the crock pot for Sunday's noon meal...

This week it is White Chicken Chili that awaits our bowls, spoons and tummies...
I still remember the first time I had a taste of this delicious recipe, compliments of my sister in law, Deena. Steve and I had been dating for about 4 months when he invited me to join him and some of his family members for Monday Night Football. Little did I know at the time how much I would come to love Monday night football, though I had a fairly strong inkling that I was head over heels for the guy who invited me...and an instant love of the soup we ate that night!

Nearer the time of our marriage, Deena gifted me with a small cookbook sharing some of her favorite Monday Night recipes. I have been making White Chicken Chili ever since, and treasure still the memories it's warm spicy auroma carries!

White Chicken Chili:

4 C. Chicken Broth. Or one 32 oz box of premade broth.
1 Jar Randall Great White Northern beans drained. If using canned...48oz.
1-2lb Chicken Breast, boiled and cubed. My man likes his meat, so I use 3-4 large chicken breasts.
2 cups salsa any kind. Get picky with your specific "hotness" preference and flavor.
1 Tbl Cumin
Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (we use any kind)
Crushed tortilla chips

Mix all ingredients except cheese and chips in pot (works well in crock pot too).
Simmer together all day - or until well heated and bubbly.
Top with cheese and chips.
Enjoy!

Top 10 From Last Week - In Random Order

2011-10-02T16:51:00.000-07:00

1) Getting a hold of and beginning a much anticipated book, "Here I Stand" - a biography on the life and work of Martin Luther by Roland Bainton.

2) The radical weather changes that is, Autumn in Wisconsin, afforded us with several early morning to-school drives under heavy bluish-purple storm clouds interspersed with rays of golden-white sunrise bursting through. The contrast was lovely and I greatly enjoyed the audible ooh's and aahs' from the back seat!

3) An email from my pen pal! Yes, I have a pen pal; something I longed for when I was 10 years old, God has given to me now. She lives in my city, goes to my church where we smile and wave at each other - sometimes grabbing bits of conversation, though neither of us finds that public demonstration necessary to fortify our friendship. We have writing, and even there, it is not the frequency of our letters, but the purpose and depth of their sharing. It's something our friendship kind of "fell into", and I am so thankful! This week's letter was like all the others from this friend....convicting, encouraging, transparent and sincere.

4) Having our nephew, Jordan and his sweet girlfriend, Elisa, attend church with us last Sunday. It was such a blessing to catch up with them a bit, introduce them to many of our friends, and sense a steadfast desire for the Lord in these two college freshmen!

5) Mommy/Son date with my big boy, Glendon Peter. We grabbed our favorite warm drinks from Caribou and then headed to cheer on Allie and Olivia (two of my small group girls) at their volley ball game! Go Eagles! G and I enjoyed great conversation on the way down and fun worship on the way back!

6)Acts 2:42-47. I know our Pastor's sermon from this morning is technically part of the new week, but it's Sunday evening and a definite highlight, so I can't NOT include it....
I long and desire and cry out to the Lord to make me a member who participates in/with a church which is motivated by and for the gospel as this passage sets forth.

7)An email from Steve on Tuesday that read, "4 weeks, 2 days." We are unashamedly counting down to a planned get-away to rejoice in the 9 years of marriage God has so graciously given us!

8)Joe and Laurel and Jorja Makovsky - new friends from our ABF who joined us on Friday night for some bonfire fun. We asked how we might pray for their family. They want to love Jesus by seeking and pursuing how He might use them in the life of an orphan! We loved getting to know this family better!

9) Suffering. A new layer and depth of which a sister in Christ was brought into. We have texted, talked, and prayed together. I have wept for her and am so thankful for how God would allow me to see her faith be tested, refined and strengthened. He is showing Himself to be her Trustworthy Redeemer in radical ways!

10)Psalm 59:9-10a,17. A treasure from my personal Bible meditation. When contrasted, these two portions of this psalm show the progression and fruit of true faith. Where there is a watching for - there will be singing. Where there is confident waiting, there will be direct experience. God is our Refuge! After receiving this encouragement in my own walk, I was also given 2 situations where I could share the same treasure with another - all in one day! I love how the Word of Life meets us with what we need, but at the same time enables and prepares us to edify others!

A Poem Echo of my Heart...

2011-05-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

Bitter and Sweet
by John Newton

1 Kindle, Saviour, in my heart,
A flame of love divine;
Hear, for mine I trust thou art,
And sure I would be thine;
If my soul has felt thy grace,
If to me thy name is known;
Why should trifles fill the place
Due to thyself alone?

2 'Tis a strange mysterious life
I live from day to day;
Light and darkness, peace and strife,
Bear an alternate sway:
When I think the battle won,
I have to fight it o'er again;
When I say I'm overthrown,
Relief I soon obtain.

3 Often at the mercy-seat,
While calling on thy name,
Swarms of evil thoughts I meet,
Which fill my soul with shame.
Agitated in my mind,
Like a feather in the air,
Can I thus a blessing find?
My soul, can this be pray'r?

4 But when Christ, my Lord and Friend,
Is pleas'd to show his pow'r
All at once my troubles end,
And I've a golden hour;
Then I see his smiling face,
Feel the pledge of joys to come:
Often, Lord, repeat this grace
Till thou shalt call me home.

All I Have Is Christ

2011-02-15T18:09:00.000-08:00

Sunday's Sermon
Undeniable Conviction
Mercy-filled Chastisement
Grace-fueled Repentance
Restoration through His Spirit / His Word
Renewed freedom
Purified Worship

We sang this song before dismissing, and it has been a powerful reminder since of the cleansing work God is about in my heart! I praise Him. He has given me what I could never deserve in the process of sanctification...
To be conformed to His image - O the bliss!!!

All I Have Is Christ:
I once was lost in darkest night
Yet thought I knew the way.
The sin that promised joy and life
Had led me to the grave.
I had no hope that You would own
A rebel to Your will.
And if You had not loved me first
I would refuse You still.

But as I ran my hell-bound race
Indifferent to the cost
You looked upon my helpless state
And led me to the cross.
And I beheld God’s love displayed
You suffered in my place
You bore the wrath reserved for me
Now all I know is grace.

Hallelujah! All I have is Christ
Hallelujah! Jesus is my life
Now, Lord, I would be Yours alone
And live so all might see
The strength to follow Your commands
Could never come from me.
Oh Father, use my ransomed life
In any way You choose.
And let my song forever be
My only boast is You.

© 2008 Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI), by Jordan Kauflin

A New Favorite...by Sojourn

2011-02-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

Listening to here: Only Your Blood Is Enough
Words and music by Neil Robins, adapted from “Psalm 51, pt. 2” by Isaac Watts

I am ashamed, conceived in sin, I’ve always been.
Born in a world where Adam’s fall corrupts us.
Rooted is the seed of death in life’s first breath.
The law demands a perfect heart, but I’m defiled in every part

For only Your blood is enough to cover my sin
Only Your blood is enough to cover me

All this guilt disturbs my peace; I find no release.
Who will save me from my crime? I’m helpless.
Behold, I fall before Your face in need of grace.
So speak to me in a gentle voice, for in Your mercies I rejoice.

For only Your blood is enough to cover my sin
Only Your blood is enough to cover me

Lord, create my heart anew (Father, come and make us wise)
Only You are pure and true (Lead us away from our demise)
Lord, You are the remedy (For only your blood can set us free)

For only Your blood can set us free; only Your blood can set us free

No bleeding bird, no bleeding beast
No hyssop branch, no priest,
No running brook, no flood, no sea
Can wash away this stain from me

For only Your blood is enough to cover my sin
For only Your blood is enough to cover me

Girls in Pretty Clothes

2011-02-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

So yesterday I read Prov. 31 with my boys, because it was the 31st, and well, that's just how we roll over here.

I asked a couple of questions, voiced a few observations, and that was it - we hurried off to the rest of our busy morning routine.

This morning, however, Glendon announced that he wanted to share "what he learned yesterday". I will type with his choice of words, so that none of the wisdom is lost in translation:

"The Mom was telling her son what kind of lady to marry, and she said to stay away from the girls in pretty clothes because they have evil hearts. The Mom told the king to just go ahead and marry a lady with dirty clothes (G must have missed the part about scarlett and tapestry, but ok....) who has Jesus in her heart. Your really have to watch out for those ladies in those pretty cloths (here we're jumping into Prov. 5 a bit) because those pretty clothes are not private, and those ladies just want to take all of the men to the dark side."

So, all you girls in those pretty, but not private, clothes, watch out! My 6 yr old is on to ya!

Thinking on Holiness

2011-01-21T11:54:00.001-08:00

"O Father, enable me to esteem holiness with apparent failure as infinitely better than success which is coupled with compromise." ~ Spurgeon

Personal holiness is to be separate from the intoxicating, but false and hell-bound, securities that this world offers. Rev18:1-8

To know God is to evidence an ever increasing separation from the world-celebrated tendencies natural to this human flesh.

Because Jesus is God, I (blank).....

2011-01-20T07:01:00.000-08:00

John 5:16-29. Jesus is God.
If He were not God, His death and resurrection would be pointless,
but He is God, so His death and resurrection are everything.
He is Lord and Master.
His deity demands response.
Dan challenged the youth group last night with this question:
"Because Jesus is God, I...(fill in the blank)....

The responses from the K'NM small group were rich:

Because Jesus is God, I will repent of my sin right away.
Because Jesus is God, I will stop deliberately, wilfully disobeying.
Because Jesus is God, I will pray when faced with temptation.
Because Jesus is God, I will forgive those who have wronged me.
Because Jesus is God, I will share the gospel without fear.
Because Jesus is God, I will show humility at school.
Because Jesus is God, I will surrender EVERY area of my life to His control.
Because Jesus is God, I will rely on His strength rather than my own.
Because Jesus is God, I will turn away from the idols I am tempted to worship.
Because Jesus is God, I will cultivate an eternal mindset.
Because Jesus is God, I will pray more, and differently, and with deeper worship.
Because Jesus is God, I will be patient with those who annoy me.
Because Jesus is God, I am not my own. I am His slave!

We closed our Small Group time with this prayer titled, "Christ Alone":

"O God,
Thy main plan, and the end of thy will is to make Christ glorious and beloved in heaven where He is now ascended,
where one day all the elect will behold His glory and love and glorify Him forever.
Though here I love Him but little,
may this be my portion at last.
In this world thou has given me a beginning,
one day it will be perfected in the realm above.
Thou has helped me to see and know Christ,
though obscurely,
to take Him, receive Him,
to possess Him, love Him,
to bless Him in my heart, mouth, life.

Let me study and stand for discipline,
and all the ways of worship,
out of love for Christ;
and to show my thankfulness;
to seek and know His will from love,
to hold it in love,
and daily to care for and keep this state of heart.

Thou hast led me to place all my nature and happiness in oneness with Christ,
in having heart and mind centered only on Him,
in being like Him in communicating good to others;
This is my heaven on earth,

But I need the force, energy, impulses of thy Spirit to carry me on the way to my Jerusalem.
Here it is my duty to be as Christ in this world,
to do what He would do,
to live as He would live,
to walk in love and meekness;
then would He be known,
then would I have peace in death."
~The Valley of Vision

Always, Equally, Ready to Fulfill His Promises

2011-01-13T09:27:00.000-08:00

"But do not overlook this fact, beloved, that with the Lord, a day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years is as a day." 2 Peter 3:8

"In the infinity of his own duration there is abundant time (for God) to accomplish his designs, and it can make no difference with him whether they are accomplished in one day or extended to one thousand years. Man has but a short time to live, and if he does not accomplish his purposes in a very brief period, he never will. But it is not so with God. He always lives; and we cannot therefore infer, because the execution of His purposes seems to be delayed, that they are abandoned." ~ Barnes

Psa 90:4 For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night.

"One day is with the Lord as a thousand years - That is, in one day, in one moment he can do the work of a thousand years. Therefore he "is not slow:" he is always equally ready to fulfill his promise. And a thousand years are as one day - That is, no delay is long to God. A thousand years are as one day to the eternal God. Therefore "he is longsuffering:" he gives us space for repentance, without any inconvenience to himself. In a word, with God time passes neither slower nor swifter than is suitable to him and his economy; nor can there be any reason why it should be necessary for him either to delay or hasten the end of all things. How can we comprehend this? If we could comprehend it, St. Peter needed not to have added, with the Lord." ~ Wesley

Word Study of "Ignorant":
G2990 λανθάνω lanthanō lan-than'-o
A prolonged form of a primary verb, which is used only as an alternate in certain tenses; to lie hid (literally or figuratively); often used adverbially unwittingly: - be hid, be ignorant of, unawares.

Evidences in me that I "overlook" (ESV) or "act in ignorance" of this truth regarding God's Infinite dealings with time.

1) Impatience manifested in complaining, hopelessness, apathy regarding my walk, or that of those around me.

2) Prayers that are dictated by my time table, rather than trust in His perfect work!
"He is always equally ready to fulfill His promises."

Oh Father, I have done this. I have overlooked the truth that you are Infinite and Perfect within time as you work out Your will. O God, there is none like you- Always Equally Ready! Forgive me for my attitudes of hopelessness and apathy in how I approach the unsaved people in my life. I have complained. I have despaired. I have been lazy in witnessing. I have been small in my faith. This is and has been sinful overlooking of Who You are. To know You, is to know the One Who is Always Equally Ready to work His perfect will.
This knowledge of you removes all fear and discouragement and instills trust. Teach me to dive even deeper into this truth; to bring my heart and mind and actions under the spotlight of your revealing truth that I might be changed. I desire, O God, to exalt You and Your glory in all things, including my perspective on Your time!
Amen

01-12-11 Journal Notes

2011-01-12T06:50:00.000-08:00

Going deeper on 2 Peter 3:7!
"But by the same word, the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire; being kept for the day of judgement and destruction of the ungodly."

Questions:
Whose/what word?
God's Decree! By the same power with which He spoke creation into existence, He spoke the flood's destruction, and will one day, speak a firey judgement upon this earth, and those on it who have rejected His Lordship will perish.

Word Studies:

Word ~ log'os ~ The Divine expression of God's reasonings, motives, computation, command.
Stored up~ θησαυρίζω~thay-sow-rid'-zo
From G2344; to amass or reserve (literally or figuratively): - lay up (treasure), (keep) in store, (heap) treasure (together, up).

Fire~πῦρ~poor
A primary word; “fire” (literally or figuratively, specifically lightning): - fiery, fire.

Judgement~κρίσις~kree'-sis
(Subjectively or objectively, for or against); by extension a tribunal; by implication justice (specifically divine law): - accusation, condemnation, damnation, judgment.

Destruction~ἀπώλεια~ap-o'-li-a
From a presumed derivative of G622; ruin or loss (physical, spiritual or eternal): - damnable (-nation), destruction, die, perdition, X perish, pernicious ways, waste.

Ungodly~ἀσεβής~as-eb-ace'
From G1 (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of G4576; irreverent, that is, (by extension) impious or wicked: - ungodly (man).

Cross References:
Psa 50:3 Our God comes; he does not keep silence; before him is a devouring fire, around him a mighty tempest.

Isa 51:6 Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look at the earth beneath; for the heavens vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment, and they who dwell in it will die in like manner; but my salvation will be forever, and my righteousness will never be dismayed.

Prayer:

Dear Gracious and Good God!
You are holy - the All Powerful One! I am nothing,that you should be mindful of me, and yet here I sit, wallowing in the riches of Your parenthood and Lordship. You love me. I do not grasp this nor live in this as I should. Death is coming to all that is around me, but my hope is sure and steadfast because of Your convenant love and faithfulness. You are the Promise Keeper! I lift up my eyes to heaven - to what I know is coming, and I see the earth all around me through the grid of this truth. I am not dismayed, but excited for that day when I will see You face to face and know you, and finally be free - completely free of this sinful flesh. In that day I will praise you in perfection! You are worthy of all praise!
Give me a following heart this day, Lord, so that I can serve and worship you with my life!
Amen

Excitement to the Extreme!!!

2010-03-30T07:22:00.000-07:00

True contentment with God's will for your life is when you find that the "surprises" He gives you are exactly what you desperately desire!

It's just so much fun that way!

(Thank you bunches to the sweet friends who left these balloons on our doorstep!

Your love is a blessing to us all!)

2010-03-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

This man loves his wife as Jesus loves the church.....
I have a feeling that he's married to a woman after God's own heart...

and I love their example of obedience to the Holy Spirit's leading in their lives!

...yet I creep to Thy throne of grace...

2010-03-25T13:46:00.000-07:00

Read this poem today on the Desiring God blog.
Loved it!

It made me stop and think deeply about God's love for me...
It makes me want to love this way, my neighbors, that stoney hearts might bleed!

Discipline
Throw away thy rod,
Throw away thy wrath:
O my God,
Take the gentle path.

For my heart's desire
unto thine is bent:
I aspire
To a full consent.

Not a word or look
I affect to own,
But by book,
And thy book alone.

Though I fail, I weep:
Though I halt in pace,
Yet I creep
To the throne of grace.

Then let wrath remove;
Love will do the deed:
For with love
Stony hearts will bleed.

Love is swift of foot;
Love's a man of war,
And can shoot,
And can hit from far.

Who can scape his bow?
That which wrought on thee,
Brought thee low,
Needs must work on me.

Throw away thy rod;
Though man frailties hath,
Thou art God:
Throw away thy wrath.

(George Herbert: The Complete English Works, 174-175)

A Cross Centered 3 yr Old.

2010-03-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

This morning as the boys and I drove down to CLS, we decided to play a game. We took turns listing off ways that we see, taste, and experience God's love for us.....

Some of the things listed:

The Sun, moon, and stars.
The Bible.
The Birds and Trees.
A world to live in.
Forgiveness.
Family - Daddy, Momma, Brother and Baby.
An engine to make our car run. (G's class is studying transportation this month =)
Our church family at RBC
This list went on....

Funny thing was every time it was J's turn to list something, he would say the same thing....
"Jesus died on the cross for our sins."

As a recent reader of "Living the Cross Centered Life", I thought to myself....
CJ Mahaney would be so pleased! =)
This made me smile, but brought home a message to my heart as well.

In his child -ness, Jaydon has latched onto one thing he knows about Jesus, and he will repeat that over and over in answer to any question about God.
For him it is simple..... Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins. He hasn't become overly familiar with that great truth and moved on to expressing what seems more knowledgable or profound.

I want to be three years old again. I want to be stuck continuously on that one glorious truth:
Jesus Christ took my place, bore my shame, and by His suffering I have been healed.
Everything else must flow out of this!

NOT Giving Up...

2010-03-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

"For God is not so unjust as to overlook your work

and the love that you showed for His sake in serving the saints,

as you still do.

And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness

to have the full assurance of hope until the end,

so that you may not be sluggish,

but imitators of those who through faith and patience

inherit the promises." ~ Hebrews 6:10-12

Are you scared INTO your wits?

2010-02-25T14:17:00.000-08:00

Randy Alcorn says...
"The fear of God is a profound respect for His holiness, which includes a fear of the consequences of disobeying Him. It shouldn't scare us out of our wits; it should scare us into them.

God says...
"The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death" (Proverbs 14:27)."

Read his entire post here:

Lessons from Jonah

2010-02-09T13:04:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, Steve and I watched the Veggie Tales rendition of the story of Jonah with our boys.

I have been studying through some of the Minor Prophets in the past weeks, and all dancing, singing vegetables aside, I felt prompted to make the book of Jonah my study for this week.

I'm reading through the short book each day, and then digging in deeper with my trusty Bible Knowledge Commentary, Concordance and the Holy Spirit.

It's Tuesday, and I'm already knee deep in wonderful truth that God is using to strengthen my faith and obedience. I love His word!!!

A few of my observations of the book as a whole:

Facts of Interest:

~Jonah was the only OT prophet to attempt running away from God.

~Jonah was 1 of 4 OT prophets that Jesus referred to during His earthly ministry. Matt. 12:41

Date:

~ Jonah took place somewhere in Jereboam's reign. 793-753 B.C. 2 Kings 14:25

Setting:

King Jereboam was successfully expanding his territory, while the Assyrian kingdom was in decline. However, prophets, Amos and Hosea had already been called to preach that the Assyrians would rise and Israel would be taken captive as a result of their disobedience to God's law.

Part of Jonah's hesitancy to obey might be explained by a patriotic fear and hesitancy to aid a nation that would become a future captor of his homeland.

(Application: Fear leads to disobedience.)

4 Truths that I see demonstrated in the book of Jonah:

1)God's concern for gentile people. Through Israel (Is.49:3) God's message of compassion was to be preached to all people.

2) The Sovereignty of God to accomplish His purposes. Though Israel was failing terribly in her missionary task, God faithfully called them to repentance - even through a running, disobedient, angry, self-centered prophet.

3)The response of the gentile Ninevah served as a rebuke to a wayward and unrepentant Israel. Even the ship's mariners demonstrate a spiritual insight (calling the sleeping man of God to prayer) and concern for Jonah (rowing hard to avoid having to throw Jonah overboard) in stark contrast to Jonah (and Israel's) lack of concern for God's law and the gentile nations around them.

4)Jonah, himself, was a symbol to Israel of her disobedience and indifference. God's punishment of Jonah mirrors His wrath over Israel's disobedience, while at the same time, His gracious and merciful dealings with Jonah mirror His slowness to anger and restoration of Israel.

Jonah's account of this story was written from a repentant heart...this is how it was shared with Israel, calling them to the same desired response to God's rebuke.

Over viewing the book of Jonah left me warming my heart next to the fire of His love for me:

~His faithful message of salvation to all people - including gentiles - me!

~His redemption of me. His relenting of what I do deserve, and merciful outpouring of what I don't deserve.

~His righteous punishment of my sin. Just like Jonah - it's the belly of the whale that draws me to repentance. I praise Him for His chastening.

~When I run, He stops me. When I repent, He gives me another command to obey. This is grace.

~He causes me to face questions that reveal my heart, so that I can change. "Do you do well to be angry?" He is so patient to not just zap me then and there.

~He allows me to be a part of His glorifying work despite my utter unworthiness. This I do not deserve, nor ever will.

Historical details obtained from Cook's Bible Knowledge Series

Wanna Trade?

2009-12-22T14:41:00.000-08:00

Remember being a kid and asking someone, "hey, wanna trade"? The question usually motivated by a belief that what the other kid had was better and fueled by a desire to have the better thing for self......

Been thinking recently about what we trade for something we believe is better for self.

What do you trade in order to get a good laugh, have a fun time, obtain some approval for self ( or at least the fleeting semblance of approval)?

What do you sacrifice in order to gain attention, be heard, look good, experience pleasure?

Is it the wisdom from above that you forfeit because foolishness is momentarily more fun?
Is it grace?
Is it obedience?
Is it lasting joy?
Is it your integrity?
Your purity of speech?
Is it the very likeness of Christ being formed in you - traded for some fleeting rubbish of self-pleasing pomp?

I asked myself these questions?
Then I asked myself this:

Is it worth it?

Purposeful vs. Permissable

2009-12-21T05:32:00.000-08:00

Do you ask yourself, "Is there anything in the Bible forbidding this?"
or do you ask rather, "Is there a command, example, principle, sanction in God's word supporting this?"

There is a stark difference in these questions, and they reveal much about one's reverence for God's word.

The one question reveals a desire to merely avoid discipline or punishment....to know just what we can "get away" with. This is incomplete reverence.

The other question reflects a heart desire for God's glory....pursuing His pleasure over oneself to the fullest. It is focused on what is purposeful rather than what is merely permissable. It reveals a higher aim than just "staying out of trouble".

Every thought, activity, choice, relationship, joke, priority etc, should be brought under the governing rule of God's word not merely to see if it's "ok", but to determine it's neccesity and fruitfulness in regards to the highest aim - God's glory made evident in the lives of His people.

He sees, He knows, He remembers...

2009-11-18T11:19:00.000-08:00

"And God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.
God saw the people of Israel -- and God knew."

If you read and re-read these verses (Ex. 1:24-25) until your mind, heart, and soul literally FEEL their weight, I promise you, you won't be the same person.

Your heart will still before the undeniable, outside-the-bouds-of-human-comprehension, absolutely indescribable goodness of God's great faithfulness.

The I AM sees us, and He knows.

Worship.

My Pastor is currently teaching through Exodus. Check out his sermons on the book here:

The Sting of True Love

2009-11-17T11:08:00.001-08:00

Last night Steve corrected me for something I said.

It stung.

His timing, manner, and words were all absolutely godly and appropriate for my growth.

Like the burn of cleansing soap to a cut open knee, truth was handed to me; the sting caused only by my need for it's cleansing work.

That I would be given a husband who cares that much about my good astounds me!

Today, he is married to a bit more humble, grateful, and godly wife because of his Christ-likeness!

So yeah, it stung. It's true love, and I am so blessed!

A period of time devoted.....

2009-11-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

Webster says that vacation is :

"A period of time devoted to pleasure, rest, or relaxation, a period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel; recess or holiday:
Freedom or release from duty, business, or activity."

Our little family has just enjoyed what we call our "yearly vacation", though as I ponder the above definition.... I'm not sure that Webster is quite on mark when it comes to what God has given us this week. In fact I'm certain that the word vacation misses the mark entirely!

We did break from some of our duties, but not all. We did experience rest, relaxation, and the pleasure that comes from being together all day, every day.
However, the defining factor for our time was not the rest, or the fun enjoyed, but the concentrated focus on receiving this time from God's hand and stewarding it faithfully.

There was more time to pray together, and with our boys. We listened to several sermons, and then discussed their application. We worshipped God as our paths were slowed down to more deeply take in creation and His word!

In our culture, in the sinfulness of human flesh, vacation is most often approached selfishly; with expectations for freedom from duty, or the stimulation of pleasure bearing rule.

What God gave us this week was far better! He called us aside for a time to focus closely on the gift of our family, and to rejoice fully in serving one another. Along the way, there were fun experiences, good learning opportunities, some super yummy food, and even some caught-up-on sleep! We're refreshed and thankful!

What is this thing we call, FUN?

2009-10-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

According to Webster...
–noun
1. something that provides mirth or amusement:
2. enjoyment or playfulness:

-synonym
1. Pleasure

Fun is the feeling of enjoyment that comes from an activity, person, or place that makes us feel pleasure.

The word is used many different ways in this culture and within our little spot of history.
My interest lies with how this thing that we call,"fun" stands up before Holy God, and His call to us, His followers.

In looking at my own walk, I see that fun, the enjoyment of it, and the pursuit of it, can very quickly become the most deceptive idol I will ever be tempted to worship.
It is so super sneaky, because it panders to the flesh of me, which needs little to no invitation before rising to serve itself.

The Enemy figures he can't get me to fall in the areas most Christians point to as sinful; adultery, murder, blasphemy etc, but he'll snark me into doing good things for the wrong reasons. He finds a way to entrap me into making things that should be all about Jesus all about me.
Sound familiar?

I can hear some of you, "What? Are you saying that having fun is wrong?" *scandalized expressions*

NO! Experiencing pleasure within God's design is not sin. God created us to desire and know the pleasure of Himself.
The Bible is full of scripture telling us of the great joy and pleasure we will reap as we follow Jesus, dying to self, and uniting with Him in true life. It tells us of how precious unity and edification are between believers. God made us to relate to one another, to enjoy one another.

However, the moment that the experience of pleasure becomes a desire rather than an undeserved by product of following Jesus....we fall.

How do we see this? There are many ways idol worship of fun shows itself.
In my life, at different times...these have popped up.

1) Greater desire to set aside time to experience fun over spending time with the Lord.

2) Extensive mental investment in the next great experience of fun....when will it be? who will it be with? how can I make it happen? what will I wear? =)

3) Neglect of God-given duties based on their seeming inability to give us the experience of fun.

4) Complaining of heart and mouth when we are unable to participate in something we've decided would be fun.

5) Jealousy over the fun others have experienced without us. Comparison. "She's more fun." "I had more fun with them than with her." Even if this never comes out of our mouths...it reveals misfocus.

6) Decisions made / Responses given based on the level of individual fun promised. "I'll serve where and when I will experience the most fun."

7) Relationship investment given or neglected based up on how much fun is experienced...Where you sit? Who you talk to?

The most telltale sign of all comes in how we respond to conviction over an idolatry issue with fun. When there is a quick, immediate, and extremely protective response to the thought that priorities are imbalanced in this area, idolatry is confirmed.

We show that we care more about maintaining an experience of pleasure than purifying our worship of Christ!

I've heard it argued, "Doesn't God want us to have fun." "God is fun."

First and foremost, before we ever say "God is" anything...we must confirm with the Bible.
God is good.
God is holy.
God is full of grace.
God is everywhere.
God is Awesome.
God is the Giver of Pleasure.
God is our Helper.
God is my Keeper.
The list goes on, but the word fun is a man made word...not given by God.

Jesus came to give abundant life in conformation to His likeness.
He gives great joy in the Christian's walk through fellowship with Him.
Heaven will be the absolute epitome of pleasure to be experienced. ever. and. beyond. all because He will be there.

The man made word, "fun", is a word where we have taken an undeserved fruit of following Jesus, joy, and turned it into something self-focused; something to be sought after. Something to be worshiped.

God started showing me the deceptiveness of this idol over a year ago (see points 1-7 above), and I've taken some extreme steps to purify my motives and decisions in why I do things, go places, invest in people. I continue to seek deeper purity in this area, and God is faithful to continue cleansing me.

This is the cool thing: I can honestly tell you that what I have found has astounded me....

More undeserved and pleasureful joy has been poured out on me than I imagined, or have before experienced.

There has been greater freedom in realizing that I don't NEED the experience of fun. I can just take it as it comes and praise Jesus for it!
There has been new insight that true pleasure is found in doing things for the Lord's pleasure....making that my pursuit.
There has been awakening to activities, relationships, and places I was totally missing before.

I laugh, sometimes obnoxiously so. I carry on with inside jokes which are usually super lame. I enjoy games, activities, events, and destinations (coffee shops).
I love to chase my boys around the house singing 80's love songs into my hair brush or curling iron.
I love being with people...all sorts of people...whoever God ordains I spend any given moment with.
God has been so good to me!

I am learning to experience the great joy that Jesus has given into my life - completely undeserved by me - only of His grace - as a by product of purified worship, not the experience that I pursue.

He is, His likeness, His ministry, His presence is what I chase after.
This world can have it's thing called fun, I want the pleasure of Jesus!

Inexpressible

2009-10-27T11:43:00.000-07:00

A sister in Christ, suffering more physical agonies than I can imagine at the hands of disease...

Children and a father who suddenly find themselves without their wife and momma...

A baby growing, perfectly formed by God, but not for this world; his parents preparing to say goodbye...

This world is full of suffering, pain, and heartache.

I want to go home. I long for heaven. I want to see my Jesus!

I have not seen Him face to face yet.

I am here; called, commanded, and enabled to live for His glory on this earth, amidst all of this suffering, for at least this one more day.

And there is joy.
Joy abundant.
Joy real and alive.

Joy inexpressible.

This joy is so deep, rich, and true, that it cannot be put into words. I could write all day and not touch it.

This joy cannot be physically demonstrated fully. I could jump and shout forever and never be done.

This joy cannot be fully comprehended by the human mind, but by the heart made alive in Jesus, it is tasted, felt, acted upon and lasting!

How is this possible? The world does not know, but His followers do.

It comes from this sure confidence: I will see Jesus face to face in all of His glory.

He will call me home, or come for me,Himself, and either way, the suffering of this life will all pass away in the light of His amazing presence!

Thank you Jesus, that in the darkness of suffering there is joy inexpressible because of Jesus Christ!!!

"Though you have not seen Him (Jesus Christ), you love Him. Though you do not now see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory." 1 Peter 1:8

*Picture taken by my brother, Jeff Haumersen, of a sunrise in Afghanistan.

Untouchable Hope

2009-10-24T18:23:00.000-07:00

Death shocks.
Death takes.
Death finalizes.
Death destroys.
Death brings sorrow greater than my mind can comprehend.

My hope is Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ is alive.

My hope is alive.

I was born into this hope through the abundant mercy of my Heavenly Father.

Death steals, but it can't steal this..... my living hope.... my Father's abundant mercy.
Death finalizes, but it won't be final for me. I will live with Him for eternity.

Because of this I rejoice. I bless the Father's name.
Death touches those I love. It touches me. I see it's ravaging affect.
My heart breaks, but I praise.
I worship.
I cling to this mercy....to this alive hope that all of this pain is for this one thing:

The praise, honor and glory of my Saviour!
Worthy is the Lamb...

He lives.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance, incorruptible, undefiled, and that cannot fade away, reserved in heaven for you. Who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation, ready to be revealed in the last time. Because of this you greatly rejoice, though you may be grieved for a little while, if necessary, by various trials. That the genuineness of your faith, which is much more precious than gold which perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ."

1 Peter 1:3-7

Amen Mr. Piper!

2009-10-23T11:11:00.000-07:00

"Unconditional election delivers the harshest and the sweetest judgments to my soul.

That it is unconditional destroys all self-exaltation;
and that it is election makes me His treasured possession."
~ John Piper

What Defines the Last 7 Years....

2009-10-20T10:53:00.000-07:00

The Pastor said something along these lines..... "Love one another in such a way that your sorrows are divided and your joys multiplied."

Steve remembers this admonition from our wedding ceremony and refers to it often.

Last night, we found ourselves seated in a warmly lit restaurant in Milwaukee's Third Ward.
As our minds quieted from the conversation that "sharing one's day" entails, he looked at me and said, "Can you believe it's been 7 years already?"

If having fun means time flies - then it's flown by with lightening speed.

However, there's a part of my mind that doesn't remember much before this calling of marriage. I am a different person. I am no longer one in myself, but one with him.

We spent the rest of the evening remembering God's faithfulness....giggling over funny memories, like seeing our wedding video and being scandalized at our own kiss. =) I cried a little when we talked of Leeanne, and how God strengthened our marriage so strongly through losing her.
We talked about the boys, about our deep desire for them to be found in Christ.
We talked about each other, how we've seen each other grow in the last 7 years.
We praised God for what He's done!!!

Our 2nd home in Springdale, Arkansas....moved in 6 mos after our wedding.

This cake read, "Welcome Baby"....taken the night before we found out our little one was going to be with Jesus.

2 Year Anniversary trip to Denver, Co.

Heading into the hospital for Glendon to be born....

Steve's a daddy....

After 2 years, it was time to pack it all up and head back to Wisconsin.

Youth Ministry enters our lives in a wonderful way! Fall of 2005

Glendon with Steve in the new RBC kitchen.

Heading into the hospital for Jaydon to be born....

The boys meet for the 1st time.

Brothers - amazing blessings that we do not deserve!!

My Groovy husband!

Winter of 2008/2009

Fort Wilderness for our 5th retreat.

One of our hugest blessings... God sparing our lives in a merciful way that changed us.

"Up North" traditional family vacation Summer 2009

Sunrise/Quiet time together....

God has been faithful to lead us, guide us, grow us, and it is by His grace alone that we celebrate Christ's love for the church through our marriage!!!

On Consideration of Self and God's Amazing Grace

2009-10-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

The statements below are based upon some readings in a book by Thomas A'Kempis.
I originally read them on July 1st, but God took me back to their truth today!

Because of my depravity, these sentiments have not always been the cry of my heart, but through the power of His word, they have fast become the desperate yearnings of my soul!

"I must fight long and bravely against myself before I learn to master myself fully and to direct all my affections toward God. When I trust in myself, I easily take to human consolation. As a true lover of Christ, however, who sincerely pursues virtue, I ought not to fall back upon consolations nor seek such pleasures of sense, but prefer severe trials and hard labors for the sake of Christ.

When, therefore, spiritual consolation is given to me by God, I receive it gratefully, but understand that it is His gift and not my meriting. I do not exult, I am not presumptuous, but I am the humbler for the gift, more careful and wary in all of my actions, for this hour will pass and temptation will come in its wake.

I do not desire consolation that robs me of contrition, nor do I care for contemplation that leads to pride, for not all that is high is holy, nor is all that is sweet good, nor every desire pure, nor all that is dear to us pleasing to God. I accept willingly the grace whereby I become more humble and contrite, more willing to renounce self.

As I have been taught by the gift of grace, and as I have learned by the lash of its withdrawal, I will never dare to attribute any good to myself, but will rather admit my poverty and emptiness. I give to God what is God's and ascribe to myself what is mine. I give Him thanks, then, for His grace, but place upon myself alone the blame and the punishment my fault deserves. "

And the sweet result - the richness of
On-My-Face worship before my Holy God!

"Thank you, Jesus, for Your cross."

Wrought Upon By God

2009-10-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

Some things about me:

I was dead in trespasses and sins and God, in His great love, made me alive together with Christ (Ephesians 2:5).

I was spiritually non-existent. Nothing. But then God created me.(Ephesians 4:24).

I was blind to spiritual things. God mercifully and sovereignly opened my eyes to see that Jesus is the Christ the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:17).

I was in utter spiritual darkness. And then "God ...shone in my heart to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" (2 Corinthians 4:6).

My mother and my father and many teachers along the way have planted the Word of God and watered it, but it was God alone who did the miracle of giving me spiritual life and making it grow (1 Corinthians 3:6).

I was self-willed, rebellious, proud, going my own way and would never have come to Jesus on my own, and God drew me(John 6:44).

I had no repentance in my heart, no sorrow for my sin or passion to change, but God graciously granted me repentance(2 Timothy 2:25).

I had no faith, no desire to believe, but God, in his great mercy, granted me to believe (Philippians 1:29)

And Peter says, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who, in His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance, incurruptible, undefiled and that can not fade away, which is reserved in heaven for you." (1 Peter 1:3-4)

Peter bursts forth in praise because:

1 God's mercy is abundant and great.
2 God caused us to be born again (made alive) unto hope. (see above list)
3 God raised Jesus from the dead so that our hope is sure, alive, real and forever and ever.
4 God Promised me an inheritance....
5 God keeps that inheritance so that it will never perish, be defiled or fade away

Seeing the work of God,
Feeling the emotional response, (reverence, brokeness, inexpressible joy....)
Bursting forth with adoration.

This is worship!

List of "About Me" scripture passages derived from a sermon by John Piper

The Forgotten Four

2009-10-12T15:05:00.000-07:00

Mark 2:3-5"Then they came to Him, bringing a paralytic who was carried by four men. And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, Son, your sins are forgiven you."

Jesus was in an Eastern home preaching the gospel of repentance to a crowd so large that it was impossible to enter the house.

Those of us who grew up in the church are familiar with this story of a paralyzed man who is carried to Jesus, forgiven of his sins and ultimately restored to good health.

There is allot going on in this story; the picture that sickness is of our depraved sin problem, Jesus sending a message to the self-righteous pharisees who refused to recognize His diety, Jesus' demonstration of His power over sin and sickness, the miracle of a paralyzed man immediately made strong and able to carry his own bed home.

Today, something new jumped off the page. The four men who carried the invalid to Jesus.

Who were they?
Was it their initiative to bring the sick man to Jesus, or were they responding to his request?What happened to them after the sick man lept up and ran home?

At the point where the paralized man is lowered into the center courtyard of the home where Jesus is preaching, he is spoken to and healed by Jesus, but up until that point, it was the actions of the four men which enabled him to be brought before Jesus.

They procured a bed, or mat, or large blanket with which to carry their friend.
They moved him.
They lifted him.
They used their strength to uphold him along whatever distance was needed crossing in order to reach Jesus.
They were determined and creative.
They worked through the barriers they met (the crowd and the roof.)
They carried the man onto the roof and used once again, their strength and effort to make an opening through which he could be lowered.
Then they lowered him carefully and safely into Jesus' presence.

These men were good friends. These men understood that healing was to be found in Jesus alone, and they were faithful to uphold their friend into the place where he might receive that healing.

They are not mentioned again.

But are they?

Notice verse 5. "When Jesus saw THEIR faith..."
Not "his faith" as in the man being lowered, but "their faith"...... including the four men who lowered him.

Do we, in faith, "carry" through sincere and committed prayer, the sick and bound to Jesus for healing?
Do we "get under and bear the load" with a burdened friend, using our actions, words and love to help them cast that burden on the Lord?
Do we "raise up, uplift, and elevate" our children to know the gospel made real in their daily lives?

My sons suffer the weight of their sin every day. They often seem paralyzed by it..... I am called to carry them to the cross every day, and by God's grace alone, I do. I do this through scriptural prayer. I do this by preaching the gospel to them in every consequence/blessing they reap. I do this by engaging them in spiritual conversations at their level - asking them questions to draw our their hearts and their knowledge of WHO God is. I do this by helping them memorize verses.

I have friends who are bound in some sort of sin pattern, wrong thinking, selfishness.... am I willing to confront them in love.... carrying them with gracious truth to a place of repentance and freedom? Maybe my "carrying" needs to be one of forgiveness, patience, overlooking, waiting and trusting the Holy Spirit to convict. Am I willing to do this?

Do I pray for opportunities to "carry" someone who is lost to the message of God's good news? Just last night, the Lord called me to carry the message of His redeeming Lordship to a young girl and her mother. Why do I not have more opportunities like that? Am I praying for and seeking them out?

I studied a familiar event of Jesus' ministry today. God spoke to me. He encouraged me to keep on with the "carrying" I am doing. He convicted me of people I have failed to uphold due to selfishness and/or laziness. He assured me of how His All-knowing , All-Powerful presence was over those four men, and it is with me too as I obey Him in this.

So an old story enters my meditation with powerful new application! I love God's word - it is to me, life-giving food!

Calvanism - What is it?

2006-06-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

Calvanism - What is it?

During Q&A time with our Pastors last night, this was one of the questions raised. Andrew did a great job of giving an overview and shared the acronym TULIP as the five points to calvanism.

T - Total Depravity
U - Unconditional Election
L - Limited Atonement
I - Irresistable Grace
P - Perserverence of the Saints

For someone (like me) who has heard this term thrown about quite a bit, it was good to understand it a tad bit deeper. These have been my fundemental beliefs based on God's word, but now I have a more systematic/theological way of expressing them.

My theological curiosity has been piqued enough that I have dug out the book Systematic Theology and am almost done with the first chapter.....deep, but very good!!!

Belly Update

2006-05-17T06:59:00.000-07:00

Things are going good in the belly. I'm starting to feel that upward climb out of the sicko stage. My energy hasn't returned in full force yet, but food is going down better and better every day. I am grateful!!! The tears are still running though - every little thing makes me so sentimental - or maybe just mental. =) I wasn't this weepy with GP, but hey, the 2nd time is probably going to be different in many ways. Steve is so awesome about just understanding me. Either that, or he's a great actor!! =)

The tummy still hasn't bulged, but things are starting to feel a little thicker, so I'm sure it's on the way. I'm so itchy to go shopping for some new spring/summer attire, but I know I need to wait and probably invest in maternity this year!!!

GP is in a very busy stage right now. His favorite misdemeanors include getting into the fireplace, opening the snack cupboard, pulling all the towels down in my bathroom etc. I have felt like one of my hands is becoming permanently attached to the spanker this week. Overall, he's a good little boy and a complete joy. Poor little guy has had to put up with a very boring Mommy these past weeks and has done quite well. I'm hoping to be getting him out to the park and zoo more in the coming weeks. This afternoon, we plan to go hang out with my Mom and sisters. The guys are all up north opening up and de winterizing the cabins. Speaking of which....I can't wait for July and our annual trip up there. Glendon is going to love it!!!
Must run - things have gotten a little too quiet which mean mischief is brewing!

Where we walked...

2006-05-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

This is much like where my FATHER and I walked this morning....the light of His glory streaming down around me. I just listened to Him - reveling in His goodness to me and taking joy in the green growth He's given my heart!!! I wonder where we'll walk tomorrow...

Dead, and yet so Alive...

2006-05-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

What is true Christian service.....what does it entail....what does it look like? I've seen all to clearly in the last couple of days that I really don't know the answer to these questions as well as I thought I did.

How easy it is to start out on the venture of ministry with the right motives and heart attitudes....your soul swelling with love for your savior and your fellow believers. Then with even more ease the nasty beast of self sneaks into the way clogging the channels and disrupting the very purpose for which you were striving. Frustration erupts making you miserable. You panic realizing that you are completely out of control. Something - probably very small - happens that breaks you and gives you clear vision of your actions - your motives - your very heart.

Ministry done solely for God's glory is done with the whole heart despite the result. It is death to self - to every part of self. You are willing to give up any honor or recognition, for it is not about you but about Jesus in you. When your co-laborers let you down, you respond with peace, with joy, and with love. You have an inner awareness that God is the ONE you are serving, and that if He chooses to use fallen people (ahem, such as you) and fallen circumstances, then by all means, you should welcome the let down. It is in the the disappointments and let downs that God's miraculous work can be most clearly seen.

You may ask where all of these thoughts come from - Well they come from someone who crashed this weekend. The smallest of hurts sent me over the edge, and as I fell, I realized that I had been serving for the last several weeks with the wrong veiw of myself (it was far too big), and the wrong veiw of God's power (far too small). My best friend, as always, was there to set me straight....to hurt me with the truth and then strengthen me with the wisdom of God's word. He is truly the most loving partner in ministry and in life!!! Meditating on Phillippians has been most healing and revealing.

I am sore....I am broken....but I am His and He is still working in me. I can't wait to see what He's going to do with the youth ministry team and kids themselves now that Kelly has died and Jesus is alone flowing through her!!!

Mommy Butchered Me!!!

2006-05-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

Well today I, Glendon, had a visit with my hairdresser/mommy. I wanted to get the do cut a tad bit shorter for summer days, but she went really short. We're still not sure what happened....something about wanting to even it out, and things just kept getting shorter and shorter. As I watched the locks of hair falling around me...I wondered, but the chocolate chips I was munching kept my mind off of things. My hairdresser mommy alternated between hysterical laughing and then crying. I don't blame her. Her baby now looks like the newest Navy Seal.

We sent Daddy pictures at work after it was all over. He cracked up, and then promised to still love Mommy!!! I'm actually really starting to like my new butch. I figure that now I won't need to have cold water sprayed on my head every morning because there is nothing left to comb. Lice won't be able to get in, and maybe I'll even get a good scalp tan this summer. At the least...it'll be COOL!!! Enjoy my pics ... and fellow guys out there, go give your Mommy/hairdressers a hug. They just might need it!!!

We had a Great Easter!!!

2006-04-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

Glendon enjoyed a fun Easter....with his Haumersen family coming over for Brunch and an Egg Hunt. Then he headed up north to see Granny and Paw Schulz. Highlights included visiting the baby lamb farm, climbing Granny's stairs, kissing her procelain dog and many other fun adventures.

Big News!!!

2006-04-20T15:38:00.000-07:00

Yup!!! Exciting stuff.... We're expecting another little baby to arrive sometime around December 7th. We're so thankful for this wonderful new blessing and will keep you posted as things progress. Right now, Kelly is all caught up in the throes of fatigue and nausea, but on the same token, we're thankful for these good signs of healthy growth inside!!!

Welcome Baby Schulz #2!!!

Bubbles, Bubbles everywhere...

2006-04-01T16:24:00.000-08:00

One of GP's favorite treats is to go "swimming" in Mommy's tub. We're not sure what the deal was with the protruding tongue in these pictures....but very cute!

Baking with Glendon...

2006-03-31T16:21:00.000-08:00

Today, we made a big Oreo Cookie cake for Daddy.... I would have been lost without my top cookie smasher on the job...

2006-03-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a busy day it's been at our house. The "Spring Cleaning" bug officially bit me this morning and I got off to a good start by cleaing all of the globes/light fixtures in our home. Glendon was a great little helper - padding around from room to room behind me as I worked. He is such a joy!!!

Then we made a big batch of homemade marinara sauce, and a batch of baby food fruit for GP. Afternoon naps. The weekly dusting. A walk around the neighborhood. Supper prep. Dinner. Bath time. Playing ball with Daddy. GP's Bedtime. Blog time. Amazing Race. My Pillow!!!

I will leave you with a fun photo taken at our Saturday evening HKS (Hemmigs, Knapps and Schulz) dinner.
Karrie on left mothers the one and only girl, Lina, and Jackson - in green.
Lindsay, in the middle, mothers Jackson (stripes) and baby Emerson (not pictured).
I mother Glendon, who loves playing with these little friends!!!

I Worship Him

2006-03-27T17:56:00.000-08:00

Idolatry of the heart,
leading to sin,
leading to misery,
leading to self-examination,
leading to confession,
leading to brokenness,
leading to mercy experienced,
leading to love overwhelming,
leading to a deeper reverence,
leading to worship.

My Abba Father (Daddy) in His great grace has been so faithful to me in the last 48 hours. He knew that my heart had turned and was serving man's approval and self-exaltation rather then Him alone. He allowed me to serve those idols, and serve them I did, right into the pit of failure and misery. Yesterday as my pedestal of man's approval crumbled into pieces around me, culminating in a painful, but much needed, rebuke from my precious husband, I saw a very close and revealing picture of my heart. I was astounded and ashamed at how easily sin had crept into my mind, motives, words, and even my actions. I wept like I haven't wept in months as the realization crept into my soul that my sin of seeking man's approval above glorifying my Father had in fact dishonored and hurt Him deeply. The stone cold word, IDOLATRY, blared through my spirit chilling me with it's severity and the knowledge that this is what I had done.

Taking my broken heart to my Abba was easy.
Why would He be there waiting for me as He always has? He was.
Why would His forgiveness wash over me with such finality? It did.
Why would He comfort me with His tender words of love? He did.
Why did He reach down and help me to get back up? I am standing.
He is GOD.
He is Holy.
He is Faithful.
He is Gracious and slow to anger.
He allowed me to realize anew my great need for Him, and I can do nothing but thank Him for sparing me the death I deserve - for calling me - for saving me - for enabling me to follow Him.
The only words I can find, and they leave much to be desired, are:

I worship Him.

Blessing from Today...

2006-03-25T11:44:00.000-08:00

~ Getting to sleep in until 7:12am.
~ Surprising Steve with his favorite blueberry pancakes in bed.
~ My Mom's birthday...talking to her on the phone.
~ Shopping with my younger sister and her nephew - also known as my son...
~ Dohgnuts at Bensteins Bakery
~ Meeting Steve for lunch downtown
~ Enjoying old memories (like the photo above...)
~ Baking new Chocolate Tart Recipe for fun!!!
~ Dinner tonight with Hemmigs and Knapps - good friends in the the Lord...
~ My bed will be there to meet me tonight.....ahhhhh

Enough

2006-03-18T20:04:00.000-08:00

As Steve and I were driving home tonight, this Jeremy Camp song played on the radio, and although I've heard it many times, it's lyrics rang fresh in my heart as a beautiful expression of what God has been doing with me, and I can truly say, He is more than enough for me! Thank you Father!!!

All of you is more than enough for all of me
For every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with your love
And all I have in you is more than enough

You are my supply
My breath of life
Still more awesome than I know
You are my reward
Worth living for
Still more aweesome than I know

And all of you is more than enough for all of me
For every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with your love
And all I have in you is more than enough

You are my supply
My breath of life
Still more awesome than I know
You're my coming King
You're my everything
Still more awesome than I know

And all of you is more than enough for all of me
For every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with your love
And all I have in you is more than enough

More than all I am
More than all I need
You are more than enough for me
More than all I know
More than all I can say
You are more than enough

And all of you is more than enough for all of me
For every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with your love
And all I have in You is more than enough

Good Girl Time

2006-03-17T21:01:00.000-08:00

Tonight my girlfriend, Crystal, and I went out for some much needed "girl time"!!! I appreciate having a friend who I can be myself with - who encourages me in my Christian walk - who listens - who likes to spend hours over coffee gloating over our wonderful hubbys. (I know enough of the world to know this is a rarity among married women!!!)

Of all these things, Crys is a friend who enjoys a good chick flick and can laugh at corney love stories, so we went to see the movie "Failure to Launch" !!!

Definitely a must see for any chick flick lover.... The paint ball scene was the best - literally had us laughing our hearts out!!!

On My Way to Art School

2006-03-09T14:14:00.000-08:00

Higheeeee (that's the way I say it),

Today my Mommy introduced me to crayons for the first time. I really wanted to eat them because they smelled so strong, but Mommy wouldn't let me even taste them. This made me very upset for a while, but I did get over it. She showed me how to color, and I really enjoyed just tapping my crayons on the paper, but this didn't do much. Finally, I learned how to run them back and forth, and that seemed to please my Mommy greatly! Enjoy my art, and for all of you beginners out there here's a little tip: Always have as many crayons in your hands as possible while coloring. Holding just one simply does not work!!!

GP

Running Crazy...

2006-03-08T13:02:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

I am feeling so remorseful about the lack of blogging lately! I will be honest and say that I've had allot coming at me this past week, and computer time has to be my first occupation to go during a time crunch.

We are doing well. I'm learning more and more about trusting God to meet all of my needs - especially the need to be filled when I feel completely empty. I have had some interesting situations requiring me to give my emotional energy and time, and yet I have seen God faithfully keep me going each day until I hit the pillow. I am tired - and looking forward to a wonderful weekend that we've designated as "family time". We're either going away, or will take the drastic measures of turning off our phone, closing all curtains etc. I can't wait!!! =)

I hope to post some recent pics of our little man soon!!!
~Kelly

Check this out!

2006-03-07T20:40:00.000-08:00

So, anyone up for some quality time with Kelly?? =)

The Five Love Languages

My primary love language is probably
Quality Time
with a secondary love language being
Acts of Service.

Complete set of results

Quality Time:		12
Acts of Service:		6
Physical Touch:		6
Words of Affirmation:		6
Receiving Gifts:		0

Information

Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.

Take the quiz

Green Grapes and Missed Blessings

2006-02-27T06:57:00.000-08:00

Green Grapes and Missed Blessings...

There once was a little fellow who was very small, and yet quite wise in his own eyes. As his mother strapped him into his seat for the evening meal, he excitedly jabbered away, all the while pointing to the refrigerator across the room. His mother knew that he thought of only one thing - green grapes. You see, this little fellow loved green grapes with a passion. They were his favorite thing, and he was certain in his heart that all he needed to be happy at that moment were some green grapes.

His mother smiled as she quickly heated up his dinner - mashed spaghetti and some chilled cottage cheese. She smiled to herself because she was anticipating the moment that she would be able to bless her son with several sliced green grapes. She knew that he could not live on grapes alone. She knew what he didn't know - that he needed some solid nutritious food in his body to keep him healthy and alive. She desired the best for her son because she loved him, yet all the while she looked forward to the moment when he had finished his dinner, and she could give him some green grapes - or maybe something even better like a chocolate chip cookie. Now, a cookie would really be a treat for the little guy, and he would be so surprised. Again, she smiled.

Despite her fun and wise plans, dinner time did not unfold in this way. As soon as she offered the first bite of warm spaghetti to her son, he pushed it away. She firmly instructed him and continued to offer the yummy food. The little fellow preceded to cry, then to scream louder and louder, his little face becoming bright red. He stomped his feet and pushed angrily at his mother which resulted in a couple spanks. As this dreadful cycle continued, the little boy reached the point of being so miserable that he was gagging on his sobs. His mother could have stopped the whole scene by yielding to his will and giving him the grapes, yet she loved him.

She was able to see forward to what he could not see. She saw tomorrow's meal, when he would need to eat. She saw the coming summer months, when he would need to stay out of the busy street. She saw years ahead to his adult relationship with God. She saw one thing - surrender. He needed to learn how to trust, and because of that, she continued to lovingly, ask him to take his food. When none of her firm entreaties worked, she let him work out the rest of his screaming alone in his bed. It hurt her to hear him cry, but as soon as he quieted, she ran in and scooped him back up into her arms. She told him how much she loved him, she told him that she knew what was best for him. She asked him to obey - simply to obey. He couldn't understand that grapes and a cookie would be waiting on the other side of an obedient meal, and she didn't tell him. He needed to obey because of who she was, because he choose to trust her over his own desires and feelings, not because he was going to get his way.

They went together back into the kitchen where the warmed up food was presented again. Though the little guy did manage to eat his food, it was not without much fighting and willfulness. Sadly, there weren't any green grapes for dessert, and there wasn't that special surprise of a chocolate chip cookie, which he would have loved to enjoy. Instead, there were puffy red eyes, a little sob in his breathing, and most likely, quite a headache - all reminders of the pain he had chosen for the evening over what could have been a delightful mealtime.

The mother tenderly rocked her baby to sleep that night, smoothing his hair and cuddling his precious little body. She so desperately wished that she could have blessed him above his wildest dreams (of green grapes) that evening, but she knew it would not be a healthy blessing for him, until he learned to surrender and receive from her hand. Tomorrow, she would try again. She closed her eyes to pray her baby's goodnight prayer, and he watched her with wide eyes. Soon sound sleep overwhelmed him.

This little grape lover is my precious son, and I learned quite a lesson from him that night. I hope that you can also see the clear parallels between Glendon's tantrum - and our arguing with God's best/refusal to surrender, between his love of green grapes - and our love of ourselves/our wants, between his misery - and the consequences sin causes in us, between his missed grapes/cookie - and our missed blessings that God is just waiting to pour out upon us. Can we not just look at our Father's face, open our mouths and eat of His goodness. Never mind the fact that what we want hasn't shown up on the horizon. What we don't feel, but need to trust, is that God's best for us will not only meet our needs, but far outweigh our wildest dreams. I thank the Lord for giving me such a clear visual of what this tremendous sin can do. I hope you've been challenged and encouraged, as I was, to make absolute surrender to the Father your life!

Kelly Schulz

God meets us right where we are...

2006-02-21T12:12:00.000-08:00

I prayed yesterday that God would give me a scripture - a word from Him - that I could take with me through a current waiting room that I'm in. My faith can be so small sometimes. I asked and He answered only about 4 hourse later. Why was I so surprised that during a Bible study, this verse popped out at me...

Colossians 3:15 "Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which you were called in one body, and be thankful."

A familiar verse, but one that now joins the others I have stored away and tagged - "personal promises." Today, I submit to God's peace ruling every area of my life!!!

Remembering Last summer....

2006-02-21T11:54:00.000-08:00

...and anxiously waiting for Spring!

MS Pizza Party...

2006-02-19T11:37:00.000-08:00

Friday night was an absolute blast! We hosted a huge pizza party for 45 Middle Schoolers at our church....followed by flash light capture the flag and then a movie on the big screen!
The kids had a great time, and we loved hanging out with them.
The above is my favorite picture from the evening, though there are many. I'm in the process of designing a web blog for the Middle School group and will be posting the majority of our experiences and pictures there. It's something I'm hoping the kids will be able to access and comment to each other on, and a way for you all to get a peak into the ministry God's given us!
I'll share the link with you when it's ready!

Such a wonderful day...

2006-02-15T05:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was so much fun...Steve surprised me repeatedly throughout the day with his love and thoughtfulness. Starting with chocolate bath truffles and a love letter on my sink in the morning...2 dozen huge and beautiful roses when he walked in the door last night...delicious Italian dinner in Milwaukee...ending with a Victoria's Secret Gift card (I've been wanting some new undies *wink*) at bed time, I felt loved and pampered.

What I treasure most though, above all these lovely gifts, is the fact that Steve loves me and choose to spend his life with me. Sometimes I really get a grasp of that and it still floors me as much as the day he proposed. The celebration of love yesterday was fun and very romantic, but the celebration of Steve's love for me and of mine for him is something we cherish every day....sometimes not as much as we ought...but it's there. I praise the Lord for giving us that kind of marriage!!!

And now for a picture of my roses...

Happy Valentines Day

2006-02-14T13:21:00.000-08:00

I am in love with two very special boys....the one who changed my life by making me whole...by loving me unconditionally...by making me happier then I ever dreamed possible. I treasure my husband more then life itself, and on this day where we all celebrate love, I praise God for giving me this man, and I look forward to the rest of our lives together.

The other little guy I'm in love with is our precious son...the one who changed my life by teaching me to totally sacrifice myself...by showing me innocence and dependance - the kind God wants from me. Glendon gives Steve and I such unity of purpose and a drive to be all that we can be in the Lord!!!

So, I'm in love....

Breaking the Silence

2006-02-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

Glendon was sick last week - a tummy bug that caused him to be very needy and cuddly! There was much mommy/baby bonding accomplished. This is part of the reason my blogging has been less consistent. Our little guy is much better now - and I'm so happy to have his happy little personality back. Here we are camped out together....

Super Bowl Party...

2006-02-10T11:53:00.000-08:00

Something was really funny...can't remember what??
GP's Thomas Train was allot of fun.
Charlie avoids the camera.
Watching the game...
Jeff and Crystal
The whole group, Jeff & Crystal, Charlie & Julie & Ethan, Kelly & Steve. GP was asleep.

Glendon's Birthday...

2006-02-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

Ever heard of cupcake in a cone? Well Mommy made me one, and it was yummy!
New sled was a big hit...
New Swim trunks...now Mommy and I can start that baby swim class.
Here I am with Mommy and her Grandparents - my great grandparents.
This is my Uncle Dan(on the right0 with his friend Andy. They're holding my new piggy bank.

One of our favorite little girls...

2006-02-02T10:35:00.000-08:00

Natalie has appeared once before on this blog (link here ), and here she is again.
This time, she sports a more closed mouth, though still very fun, facial expression.

Redefining the "Mountaintop Experience"

2006-01-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

I just returned from my bi-weekly Beth Moore Ladies Bible study. Tonight was so good as is every video session, but I came away with some distinctly new pearls of truth from God's word.

Beth spoke from Luke 9:28-36...the story of Jesus' transfiguration on the mountain before Peter, John and James. Peter's reponse mirrors what we often do. He wanted to build tabernacles...he wanted to stay there forever. He considered the top of the mountain with Jesus, Moses and Elijah to be better the returning to the valley below, where he would be considered crazy. Among the many lessons we learned tonight, the strongest in my heart is this.

"Our meeting places with Christ are not places that we build tabernacles and stay."

"Any place we see Christ tansfigured can turn out to be the greatest mountaintop experience of our lives."

Jesus says to us: "I take you (Kelly) onto this mountain because of what I will do with you in the valley."

Lord, You are the fullness of all security and mystery. Readjust my vision of you. Make me willing to receive all that you want to reveal of yourself to me. Make me a direct product of knowing you!

Playing with cousins...

2006-01-29T14:40:00.000-08:00

Glendon is pictured here trying to keep up with this older 2nd cousins. Caleb is 3.5 and Nathan is 19mos.GP and Nathan were having so much fun pounding away on this bench.
Beautiful baby roses that our guest left for us...Thank You Bayne Family!
All three boys...GP was not in a photogenic mood.
Caleb and Nathan with their early morning juice.

Fort Pics cont....

2006-01-28T19:11:00.000-08:00

My girls - Michelle and Sarah!
Steve with some of his guys...
Cheerleaders - showing us how it's done!
Zonkered Out...5.3 miles of cross country skiing left us a little dazed in the canteen. This is myself with two of my "Katelyns" (I had 3 in my cabin)....Kate and Katie
Gretchen - at about 4 feet - is the smallest of us all, but she still found a way to sign everyone's encouragement paper.

2006-01-28T18:36:00.000-08:00

Waiting in the stables for the horses to be ready...
Katie and Carly...getting in the saddle.
My other Katelyn - who goes by Katelyn....isn't she cute??!!
My girl, Christa. I love her so much!
Waiting...

Signing back in...

2006-01-23T20:08:00.000-08:00

Hey, we've returned from the cold, wintery, snow covered woods of Fort Wilderness. Words can't express how well the trip went.
The speaker was challenging and great. Several kids got up this morning (some twice) to say what God had taught them. It was awesome!!!
Steve and I were both able to individually connect with our kids on a deeper level, and we saw some hard kids let their walls down, some quiet kids open up for the first time. It was great!!!

Highlights:
My girls got to see a whole new side of Kelly....it's kind of on the down low, but does have to do with dancing in men's long john pants.....
My Team made it through the Broomball tournament to the "Super Bowl", and even though we did lose that final game, it was great to go that far!!! =)
Steve and I both enjoyed cross country skiing for the first time....the trails meander through the snow covered woods, and really couldn't give a more beautiful touch of God's creation. I couldn't help but praise Him with nothing around me but Him!!!

God gave us strength and joy to be leaders this weekend!!! All of this a huge answer to prayer...thanks to those of you who joined in. We are still cold, extremely tired and dying for bed, so pictures from the weekend will follow later.
Most of all, we were so thankful to be reunited with our little son after these three nights. He looked good, but was happy to see us too. I treasured rocking him to sleep tonight!!! He's such a blessing and so cute too!!!

Other news is that we have my Aunt Carolyn (She's only 7 years older then I) with her husband and two boys coming in tomorrow for three nights. As our computer is in their guest room, I may not get much time to type...
After Friday comes and goes, I want to get back in touch with each of you!
~K

And We're Off Again...

2006-01-20T10:44:00.000-08:00

Hey All - The Schulz family will be out of touch this weekend. Steve and I are heading back up to Fort Wilderness for our Youth's Winter Retreat, and Glendon is going to Grandma's again! This should be a wild and crazy time!!! Even just the last minute planning has been insane. I'm learning that when you work with youth - INSANE is really what it's all about!! =)

We're all really excited about some quality time with "our kids". I have about 9 girls in my cabin ( no co-leader), and Danielle has the other 9 in her's. We know that each kid coming has an appointment with God this weekend - something to learn/change/grow upon etc. Pray that we leaders would be faithful and walking in the Holy Spirit as we mentor them!!!
We'll see you on the flip side!!!

Bath Tub Baby

2006-01-20T10:41:00.000-08:00

Glendon loves to go in "Mommy's tub" every once a while.

With One Headlight....

2006-01-19T18:31:00.000-08:00

The true characters of this story will remain anonymous. All names have been changed.

Once upon a time - about eight weeks ago - one of the headlights on our old truck went out. I thought we should replace it - he said we should hold out (our new truck has been ordered). I understood he didn't want to put more $ into something we're getting rid of, and well, I'm submissive (laughter here), so on we drove with one headlight.

One chilly and windy evening - Wednesday evening - a certain truck was pulled over by a very thorough officer. Luckily I was in the back seat. It's easier to disguise laughter there. HE was only given a written warning, though I'm not sure that was as bad as having to admit defeat to his submissive wife (more laughter)! The conclusion to this story? Has the headlight been replaced you may ask......hmmmm. The lyrics to a certain Wallflower's song come to mind:

Hey, come on try a little
Nothing is forever
There's got to be something better than
spending money
But me & Kellerella
We put it all together
We can drive it home
With one headlight

Our New Cheff Extrordinaire...

2006-01-19T18:29:00.000-08:00

Play Time w/Glendon - So Precious

2006-01-17T13:46:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Sunset

2006-01-17T13:44:00.000-08:00

For The Record

2006-01-16T07:44:00.001-08:00

Since Steve had to have his "lounging picture" posted for public viewing, he insisted that you people also see how I spent my evening.... Sweats, afghan, tv remote...yup it was good!!!

Blinding Claws...

2006-01-12T18:21:00.000-08:00

Tonight, Steve jumped another FATHER hurdle....that of being injured by his son. He and GP were wrestling when Glendon poked Steve in the eye accidentally. I, being the gracious and compassionate person that I am, responded by laughing and high-fiving Glendon for his tactic. When 5 minutes had passed and Steve was still wincing in pain, I began to think something might be out of the ordinary. His pain is severe and nonsubsiding. We contacted our eye Dr. who advised Steve try to make it through the night and call first thing in the morning. It seems that it is most likely a Corneal Abrasion, which will heal but does need antibiotics to resist infection and scaring.
So here is my hubby, in his cozy pjs - sipping hot cocoa and wearing his shades. We're glad to already be able to laugh about the situation, but do pray for God's healing in this. His timing is perfect....we praise Him that this didn't take place last Thursday or next Thursday, as both precede ministry commitments.

Glendon's Thursday

2006-01-12T18:11:00.000-08:00

GP enjoyed some special fun today. We met Ruby and her kids for Story Time at Barnes&Nobles. The favorite was by far the Thomas Train Table. Due to the warm weather today, we headed to the park to take in some rays - and wet sand. Then it was off to Arby's for french fries, Wal*mart for groceries, and home for nap.

People, WE HAVE SUN!!!

2006-01-12T06:05:00.000-08:00

This is the view outside our back window this morning, and after 19 days of grayness, we can once again see the sun making her journey up and over the house.
It's amazing how much energy and motivation can be felt just from enjoying the sunshine in the morning! Speaking of energy, I hear one little boy who is awake and wanting to get up.

The Milk Quandry...

2006-01-11T13:51:00.000-08:00

Glendon just shocked me by consuming rather rapidly at least 6 oz. of whole milk...something he's refused to drink up until now. Upon realizing that he disliked the foamy white stuff, I panicked, wondering how my baby was going to survive without it. Didn't they always say that you have to drink milk to have strong bones?? Even yesterday, I had someone tell me that I should be concerned for his brains developement w/o milk's source of fat.

My Pediatrician, on the other hand, assured me that while cow's milk is perfect for a baby cow, she didn't feel I had given birth to a baby cow (I'd agree), and that as long as I focused on other calcium and fat providing dairy products, Glendon would be just fine. ~So~ on came the yogurt, cheese sticks, and cottage cheese, all of which, Glendon gobbles right down.

Then today, for the sake of curiosity, I offered GP milk when he woke from his nap. He drank right down. We'll see if his new liquid flexibility lasts, but either way...I find it funny how much mental and emotional energy I put into these issues, and they really just take care of themselves. Our milky experience supports the paragraph below, which I found while googling, "Does my baby really need cow's milk?"

Does your baby really need actual cow's milk? No. The main thing that is in milk that is important for babies is calcium and fat. If your baby will eat yogurt, cheese, or calcium-fortified orange juice (when he is a bit older, of course), then your baby may not actually need milk. Many cereals are also calcium-enriched. The calcium requirement for infants is two or three servings of a calcium-rich food or beverage each day. One cup of milk, juice, or yogurt, or one piece of cheese, each counts as a serving. Breastfeeding at least four times each day also gives your infant plenty of calcium. Calcium-fortified soy milk is a good substitute for regular milk. If your infant doesn't like something the first time, try it again every few weeks. His tastes may change.

Karri ~maybe give L a week's break - time for her to forget she doesn't like it, and then try again.

A new little pi_knapple

2006-01-11T12:56:00.000-08:00

Whoo Hoo - Little Emerson Knapp is finally here!!

Congrats Brian and Lindsay and Jackson!!!

Let the good times begin...

Karri ~ I hope you don't mind me "borrowing" your pic.=)

Walking down Memory Lane...

2006-01-11T06:32:00.000-08:00

OK - so I've been enjoying looking through photo albums from about a year ago. I can't believe how much Glendon has grown in just 1 year, and yet I'm so thankful for his strong health and budding personality. I just couldn't help but post some pics of the little guy. These were taken January of 2005 in our home back in AR.

2006-01-09T17:39:00.000-08:00

2006-01-08T19:54:00.000-08:00

Friends,

You may have noticed a previous post - which I have now deleted - that shared the exciting news that our friends, Jeff and Crystal Rohde, were expecting their first baby.

Sadly, they have learned that the baby is not alive and that Crystal is quickly moving towards a miscarriage. We ask that you keep them in your prayers as they say goodbye to this little baby.

Having lost our first, little Leeanne, we know every crack and crevice of the mountain they are now facing, and it's a hard one to climb. I say in a humble/factual way that it is truly something you cannot understand unless you have gone through it yourself.

The wonderful news is that their faith is strong!!! I have had two very precious conversations with Crystal since she received the news, precious because we just wept together on the phone and talked through her pain, and yet there is great peace and hope in their hearts because they know the Lord. They know that He has a plan - that He is strengthening their marriage and their testimony through this loss. They know that He is giving them a greater reason to look forward to heaven one day!!!

It has been amazing to me as I have spent much of this weekend reliving the emotions I went through 2 years ago and have seen God's amazing healing and work. I have such joy now - knowing that I have a little daughter in heaven waiting to meet me someday. I am humbled that God would use my experience to equip me to relate to others.

Anyway, please pray for the days and weeks ahead of Jeff and Crystal.

First of all, praise God for this little life that they carried even for so short a time.

Pray that this process would come about quickly and naturally physically for Crys.

Pray that they would feel closure and healing afterwards.

Pray for Steve and I as we seek to be there for them - that God would show us how best to do that.

Thank You!!!

We're back...

2006-01-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

Hey all...

Thanks for your prayers. We had a wonderful time up at FORT. I had no clue I could personally do so much physical labor in 48 hours, but we both had a blast and are home now. We're sore, tired, cranky, messy etc, but we're home!!!

Highlights were:

Hours of Cribage in the van... certainly gave us opportunities to see each other's true colors... in a good way, of course.

Kelly and Danielle loading, moving and unloading 3 truck loads of chopped wood. How we girls got assigned that job is still unknown, but we impressed many with our strength and speed. I guess lifting a 23 lb baby every two minutes does pay off !!

Steve and the guys did allot of outdoor work....maintianing broomball courts, shoveling off the ice rink, patching tubes for the sledding hills etc. They also ran a tight ship in the dish pit...oh yeah!!! Serving five meals to 200+ people was exciting. You can't imagine how much food kids can eat after playing in the snow all day.

The greatest moment was when Danielle and I had tubing hill duty. You're supposed to sit at the top of the hill and keep an eye on the kids as they go down the runs. Well, we were dead tired, and there weren't any kids on the hill at that moment, so we grabbed our sleeping bags and layered on all of the warm clothes we had. After trudging to the top of the hill, we spread a bed of sorts with innertubes and zipped ourselves into our sleeping bags and just chilled out - literally. Funny thing was, we actually fell asleep, and guess how I we woke up. Our beloved Youth Pastor happened to find us - slacking on the job - and gave us both a hard shove, so yes, we were flying down the hill. Tubes were spreading everywhere, and we had no control due to being zipped into the bags. After letting us panic for a moment at the bottom, Andrew did come down with our boots, and we all made it home fine. Good bonding, I'd say - embarrassing as well.

My bed is calling my name loudly.... Must run!

Yummy Lunch...

2006-01-06T11:46:00.000-08:00

I hope you're not hungry while reading this...

Glendon and I enjoyed a yummy lunch at Chipotle Mexican Grill today. The food was dee-licious as was the company of Karri, Lina (one of GP's little girlfriends) and Jen. Jen is Karri's sister visiting from out of town. Thanks, Hemmigs and Co. for suggesting such a fun outing!!!

Gone for the Weekend...

2006-01-05T20:06:00.000-08:00

Hey - we ask for your prayers for the RBC Youth Leadership Team this weekend as we head up north to Fort Wilderness.
The purpose of this trip is team building with one another as we staff the camp going on right now. We'll also be working in some massive planning meetings for the upcoming winter retreat we're taking our youth on. Glendon will be staying with my parents and sibs - Thanks Haumers for helping us out this way!!!

Pray for:
Unity and growth for the group.
Strength as we'll be working some long hours for the camp.
Steve's health - he's been battling a sore throat today.
Glendon's health and safety as we're away from him.
Kelly's mommy heart hurting to leave her baby overnight for the first time. =(

Thanks -

Poor Poor Baby....

2006-01-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, Glendon had his 1 year check up....He had to have blood drawn for lead testing, and was quite facinated with his first bandaid. You will also note how tired he was when we finally got home. Too much poking and prodding, I guess.

Mommy's Little Helper...

2006-01-03T12:20:00.000-08:00

Glendon has a passion for our clothes dryer. He loves to help me load wet laudry in, though he does reach a point where he believes it must all come out again - and as fast as possible. Today, I caught him trying with all of his might to climb into the dryer, so I gave him a little help. As you can see, he was very pleased and immediately started planning his escape...

Happy New Year's....Welcome 2006

2005-12-31T21:44:00.000-08:00

Wow - I can't believe we're living the final moments of 2005. It's been an awesome year - full of many blessings. (I'll delve deeper into that later!) 2006 is right around the corner, and we want to wish all of you - our dear friends and family - a very HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! May God bless this coming year in your lives ABUNDANTLY!!!

We have just returned from a wild and crazy Bowling Party with our middle schoolers. What an awesome time!!! We're home now and I need to run get ready to smootch my Honey at the stroke of 12:00am.

2006 Here we go...

Narnia...

2005-12-31T11:36:00.000-08:00

Last night, my husband took me on a wonderful date night - last minute and very romantic!!!
We went down to Tinsletown and saw the movie, Narnia.
I absolutely loved it!!!
I grew up watching the old BBC version and have read all the books (10 yrs ago), so it was very nostalgic and wondrous to see such a good production of the story. I was impressed with the visual effects display, and the characters were all superbly cast. It was also neat to draw the parallels between the fantasy world of Narnia and the my Christian walk. Well done Disney....I can't wait to see it again!!!

Happy Birthday Glendon Peter...

2005-12-28T20:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Little Son...

Happy First Birthday!! It is hard for me to believe that you are already 1 year old, but you remind me quickly as you're currently trying your first steps and saying Mamma clearly!!!
When I think back to this day a year ago, I can't help but remember how wonderful it was to welcome you into the world. God truly blessed us with a safe and healthy delivery, and you've been growing strong ever since. There are about 20 minutes that I wish I could relive over and over again - right after you made your appearance and I was seeing you for the first time. Even though your little face was new to me, it felt as though I had known you forever. You were apart of me and of your Daddy, and you turned us from a couple into a family!!! I'll never forget how Daddy held you so close and talked to you - really grasping for the first time that he was a father. You were so calm. You just studied his face and blinked every once in a while.

We love you, little son, and look forward to the next year with you in our family!!! We pray for you Luke 2:40.
"Holy God,
Grow Glendon to be strong in Spirit.
Fill him with Your wisdom.
Cover him with Your grace.
Amen"

Follow this link for pictures of Glendon's actual Birth day...

Christmas with the Schulzes....

2005-12-27T22:02:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful 48 hours up in Manitowac W.I. visiting Steve's parents. His bro Dan and fam were able to join us as well, so the whole gang was there.
Highlights included:

Glendon loved spending time with his cousins...especially latching on to Jordan who did a great job holding and entertaining him. I'm sensing future babysitting options...

Present opening was a blast as Glendon really went to town tearing into any package he could. Funny to see the Schulz male coming out in him. There are two things the Schulz male will never get enough of. One being sugar cookies covered in butter cream frosting, and the other is opening presents marked just for them. Glendon fit right in.

The entire family enjoyed a special surprise from Paw and Granny which turned out to be a sleigh ride through the woods behind beautiful black horses wearing real bells. It was great fun even for us adults, and Glendon was lulled to sleep by the bells and the fact he couldn't move in his new snow suit. Thanks Paw and Granny for a great Christmas!!!

2005-12-27T19:29:00.000-08:00

The littlest Schulz male started us off....

GP with new scarf from Granny....

Me with pretty new serving dish from Mom S and awesome scarf handmade by Deena... I love it!!! Not pictured is a beautiful bracelet made by Deena as well - just what I was hoping for!!!

Glendon digging in...again

Posing with youngest nephew, Alex...

With Auntie Deena

Uncle Dan with the Snoopy Shirt...

Kyle and Glendon busy with packages...

Conner has a penquin from Granny...

Glendon with new snow suit...Cousin Alex in the background...

Paw with his foot pillow...it's like one giant slipper...will be great for his football watching tangents...

Petting a horse's nose...

These horses were all so friendly...

Waiting to go...L -R: Jordan, Kyle, Conner,
Deena, Alex, Dan,
Kelly, Glendon, Steve's Spot,
Granny and Paw

Back half of the sleigh...Daddy has a funny face on.

Rythm of the horses + sleigh bells = Sleepy Baby

Christmas Day - Just us with Glendon...

2005-12-27T19:09:00.000-08:00

Trying out those feet...

Hugs and kisses - priceless...

Mommy and Glendon... waiting to open gifts.

Checking it out...

Tearing paper is fun...

Fun noises and sounds accompany this pop up toy.... Go Fisher Price!

Upset that Daddy would take away his new toy in order to unpackage it.

Biggest Christmas blessing is being Mommy and Daddy to this happy boy...

Christmas Eve PJs.....

2005-12-26T18:48:00.000-08:00

This is a tradition that Steve and I started the first Christmas we were married. We always exchange one gift on Christmas Eve - New PJs for the winter. It's totally fun, and then we enjoy having a new set to lounge around in on Christmas morning.
This year, we surprised each other by both choosing for the other pjs from the GAP, and Glendon models an OshGosh Aligator print.

Why He came...

2005-12-24T20:11:00.000-08:00

Hello ~

This entry will be merely the musing of a growing daughter of God as she considers what Christmas - the birth of her Lord - is really all about.
Growing up in a Christian home, I have always known that Christmas wasn't all about presents and Santa, but about Christ's birth. I was taught at an early age that He came to eventually die on the cross for our sins and then rise again...conquering death that we might be children of God. I praise God that these truths were in my heart from early on, but I'm excited to realize a new step of faith and understanding this Christmas season - 2005. God is continually teaching me, and this is the newest revelation of His Spirit in mine when it comes to His birth

Isaiah 61:1-3 goes like this:

"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn and provide for those who grieve in Zion,
to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD,
for the display of his glory."

I was intrigued with this passage when I came across it in my readings about a month ago. It 's prophecy of the Lord's coming and I loved the 10 bountiful promises within!!!
Amazingly enough, God took me into a deeper study of this passage through my Ladies Bible study showing me even more beauty to these words.

Luke 4:16-21 depicts a story of Jesus visiting home - Nazareth - probably spending some time with his parents and hometown friends. On the Sabbath day, as was his habit, he went to the local synagogue (typical church service of that day) and stood up to read. The Bible says that He was handed the book of Isaiah, though knowing what I know about my God, this wasn't coincidence. He had a specific message to relay that day.

Jesus choose the spot and read much of the passage above. As his voice resonated throughout the room sounding again the prophecy that was so familiar to those listening, there was something different - something different about his face, his manner that commanded their undivided and enraptured attention. Vs 20 tells us that when he closed the book and sat back down, "every eye was fixed upon Him." Now, I don't know about your church experiences, but I find it's fairly unusual that every eye be fixed upon a Pastor at one time and held there. These people gave their attention because they could not help it.

Jesus then gave this simple and yet world changing statement: "Today, this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." THAT DAY the promises these people had been clinging to for years were being fulfilled right in front of their eyes. I do not think that all - maybe none - in that congregation were able to grasp and understand the depth of this fact, but I can now -with the Holy Spirit in my heart.

Jesus Christ came to earth - He was born in a manger, but that's not where Christmas stops. We must go deeper. He came to fulfill each of the Isaiah promises and many more. He came to make a way for our broken hearts to be healed...for our bondage to be made freedoms...for our ashes to be made beautiful. All for what??? That we might bring the Father glory!!!

How amazing it must have been to be in that synagogue - to hear from Jesus' own lips exactly why He came. These precious passages have made Christmas deeper in my heart this year as I praise God for His most incredible gift to me....His Love, His Life.
In 90 minutes it will officially be Christmas morning, and I say to you all, "Merry Christmas"!!! May you have an Isaiah 61 Christmas this year!!!

Christmas with the Haumersens

2005-12-24T20:03:00.000-08:00

This morning was Christmas with my family - parents and siblings. We started off with the traditional family brunch....creamed eggs on toast, citrus salad, cranberry coffee cake, sausage, punch and coffee. Then we had a great time opening gifts together. Though Steve didn't get pics of everyone, here are some of the gifts opened. We'll start with my Mom....

2005-12-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

Me and Dad (who has travels to Japan twice a year). His hat reads, "I'm a legend in Japan." I'm holding the beautiful japanese china (is that correct??) bowls he brought back for me. They're great for serving Chocolate Mouse in.

Marybeth (In Red) loves to sing and was soon jamming with her new karaoke machine..

David - the avid fisher will enjoy this new TV casting game...

Me and sister Connie - she loves her new tube scarf!

My Dad made Glendon a really neat toy box...as you can see he loves it!!!

Tim ~ I love my new Gap hat!!! I feel very "vogue" in it. =)