Adventurous Living

God of Wonders

2008-07-17T10:31:00.006-05:00

I wrote this post "God of Wonders" today on my other site, Anna's Place. Anna's Place is my other blog for those who have experienced grief and pain that comes with the death of a loved one. I felt it was important to post it here at Adventurous Living. I pray these words will speak to your heart today.

It's interesting to see how certain events bring back memories.

I'm in the middle of Vacation Bible School right now at our church. You see, my first husband, Gerry (short for Gerald), died the week before Vacation Bible School in 1992. I was the VBS director then. I am the director now.

Many wondered and some outsiders even scoffed at how I showed up and led the songs that summer of '92. All I can say is that I couldn't stay home. There was work to do. And if I had to sit down and cry after the kids left the sanctuary for their class - I did.

But I also knew this was yet another opportunity to share the "God of Wonders" with children and their families. People need to know that God loves them. People need to know that Jesus will save them from their sin and give them a home in Heaven for all eternity.

So as I sing and lead children this week at VBS, I stand back in awe at the God of Wonders who has saved me and brought me this far. I leave you today with the words to this song. May you know the God of Wonders who loves you and gave His life for you so you might live! Allow your heart to sing...

God of Wonders

Lord of all creation,Of water, earth, and sky.

The heavens are your tabernacle. Glory to the Lord on high.

God of wonders beyond our galaxy,You are holy, holy.

The universe declares your majesty. You are holy, holy.

Lord of heaven and earth; Lord of heaven and earth.

A Prescription for Doubt

2008-07-10T08:06:00.015-05:00

Did you ever have the fleeting thought, "What if it isn't true? What if the Bible really isn't the Word of God?"

The devil loves to mess with our minds. So where do we go when our minds are barraged with a full frontal assault?

Right back to the truth of the Bible.

"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." II Timothy 3:16,17

I love reading the 4 Gospel narratives in the New Testament. Each writer has a different perspective, a different angle of looking at the events surrounding Jesus Christ's birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension into Heaven. The Holy Spirit worked through each of these unique men, each having a different writing style to say what God wanted us to know.

Right now I'm reading Dr. Luke's narrative. That's right. One of the writer's that God used to pen his Word was a doctor. Check out the attention to detail Luke uses just in the first four verses of Luke, chapter one.

"Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitness and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed." Luke 1:1-4

Put your name where "Theophilus" is and guess what? It makes this passage real personal.

If you haven't been instructed in the Scriptures, now is a good time to take a look. Find out what God's Word is all about. Go to a Bible believing and teaching church and get plugged in. Don't let the devil keep you away from something that will change your life forever. An encounter with the living God through His Word will change your life - for the good - for all eternity!

And for those of us who have been instructed in the Bible? Keep reading. Keep attending a Bible teaching and preaching church. Don't give into doubt. There is an orderly account for us to understand. There are unsearchable riches for us to explore. There were eyewitnesses and ministers that saw the prophecies of the Old Testament Scriptures being fulfilled before their very eyes!

Yes, we can know with certainty those things in which we were instructed!

Live the adventure,
Susan

July Update

2008-07-07T15:43:00.016-05:00

Hi all my blogging friends :) Just checking in with you all! The above title is not very creative, but hey, it's real! It's about all my fried brain can come up with right now!

I enjoyed spending alittle time this afternoon surfing your sites. How relaxing to visit with you and encouraging to see what God is doing all around the world. Our God is truly amazing and all-powerful!

We had an "eventful" 4th of July holiday here in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. A little trip to the ER (Can you believe it happened even before the picnic started? Don't worry, all turned out well!), a family picnic, a wiffle-ball game, fireworks in the rain... But probably the most memorable part of our family's 4th of July celebration was missing my oldest son who has been in Germany for the last ten days playing his trombone with All American Youth in Concert. I suppose since he's leaving for college in two short years, I better get used to that!

Also, I ask for your prayers for the church I attend and their upcoming Vacation Bible School program on July 14-18th. I am busy preparing last minute details as the VBS Director. Please pray for the salvation of souls. That's what this VBS is all about - kids and their families learning about Jesus Christ and discovering that they can be forgiven of their sin, have Jesus help them through this life, and have a home in heaven that lasts forever!

I'm especially excited with the theme for this year's program since I used to work in a medical laboratory before having children. If you're interested in knowing more about why the blood of Jesus is soooooo important, check out one of my posts from last year on this interesting topic. (Click here) In addition, my blogging friend Connie, at Connie's Thoughts from the Heart also had a very thought provoking post today about the importance of Christ's blood.

There's power in the blood of the Lamb!

Live the adventure,
Susan

Soar

2008-07-01T11:42:00.011-05:00

Did you ever watch an eagle soar through the sky? What an amazing sight to behold. Majestic and strong, this beautiful bird will rise and crest with the wind. God says that we can mount up with wings like eagles. I like that promise!

Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:30,31

These Bible verses are special to me. In fact, after attending public school up through the eighth grade, I had the opportunity to attend a little Christian school for my high school years. Isaiah 40:31 was our field hockey team's theme verse.

On various trips, I remember riding along in the yellow school bus to and from our games singing with the rest of the girls, "They that wait upon the LORD, shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles..."

Surely that Scripture song has come back to me again and again, on good days and days that I'm having a really tough time. You see, with Jesus Christ, we can mount up and rise above life's circumstances, just like an eagle. The LORD surely will carry us through.

Teach me LORD, teach me LORD to wait!

Live the adventure,
Susan

The Face of Compassion

2008-06-29T16:40:00.004-05:00

Did you ever get so downhearted that you felt you were at the point of total despair? Maybe it's a health issue, or trouble at work, or at home. There is hope.

Over and over again I read in the Bible about the compassion Jesus Christ has towards people. I saw it again today. And friends, did I ever need to read it - to see it for my own eyes.

In this particular Scripture passage, there was a dad who was having an awful time with his son. In fact these issues were so dramatic and had been going on for so long, this father was at wits end. Listen to what this man says to Jesus.

"But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us."

Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."

Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief." [Mark 9:22-24]

And Jesus helped them. He will help us too. How do I know? The Bible tells me so. Our God is full of compassion. Go to Him!

"But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth." Psalm 86:15

Do I Have to Yell to Be Heard?

2008-06-26T06:49:00.010-05:00

"Just eat your food and stop complaining!!!!!!"

Maybe you've uttered those words (or something similar on another subject) to your children at an increased decibel level. Parenting can be rewarding but at times it can be frustrating - especially when little Jr. isn't obeying.

Here's a helpful parenting tip about "yelling" I received from The Biblical Parenting Center. They have great resources along with free email tips like this. You can check them out in the link at the end of this post. God bless and live the adventure with those little ones that God has entrusted to you-without yelling!

Do you find yourself yelling sometimes just to be heard? Does the yelling frustrate you but you feel there's no other way?

We find that parents often yell when they don't have a plan. Some parents don't know how to fix a problem with their kids so they become louder, thinking that the intensity created through yelling will have some kind of positive effect. It doesn't work. Motivating with harshness can keep children in line or get them to accomplish a task, but that method damages family relationships.

In Jeremiah 10:24, Jeremiah prays, "Correct me, Lord, but only with justice—not in your anger, lest you reduce me to nothing." In the end, it is closeness that provides parents with teachable moments and the relaxed enjoyment of family life. Yelling and harshness discourage trust, essential to help young people learn valuable principles about life.

You might be saying, Wait a minute! My kids won't obey unless I get angry. If that's true, then maybe you've trained your children to respond to your anger as a signal that it's time to obey. Kids are smart. They know they can wait until the last minute before responding. They've figured out how many warnings you'll give and they recognize the tone of voice that says you're ready to deliver a consequence.

One solution is to teach children to respond to a different cue. If yelling is the sign that you mean business, then change the cue to a more constructive signal. If you teach your kids that you'll back up your words sooner, without anger, then your dependency on anger to get things done will decrease.

This parenting tip comes from the book, Good and Angry: Exchanging Frustration for Character in You and Your Kids,by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN. If this tip was sent to you by a friend and you'd like to continue to receive tips yourself, you can sign up at http://www.biblicalparenting.org/.

A Noteworthy Quote

2008-06-24T06:34:00.004-05:00

I found this "noteworthy quote" in my Women of Faith devotional Bible today:

"I want to be able to say yes to everything God has for me, not because I've become courageous, but because He's God. And He's great; and He's good; and He's true; and He's faithful! Shelia Walsh

Look for more noteworthy quotes from time to time, right here on Adventurous Living!

Live the adventure,
Susan

Look Mom!

2008-06-21T06:26:00.004-05:00

"Look Mom, God put that toad there

just for me!"

My son actually said those words, only it wasn't on a hike this time, it was in our backyard next to our deck. Isn't it cute to see how our kids are learning to relate their lives and events to our Lord God?

Have a nice weekend everyone and live the adventure of a life with Jesus Christ. You won't regret it!

In Jesus' love,

Susan

Fully Clothed?

2008-06-20T06:06:00.008-05:00

I found this Bible verse the other day...

"Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Colossians 3:12

Now that is some nice clothes! I pray that I'm "fully dressed" today. How about you?

BTW - does that list remind you of anyone? (hint: his name starts with "J" and the next four letters are E-S-U-S...)

Live the adventure,

Susan

Reflecting

2008-06-17T13:23:00.012-05:00

I’ve been reflecting a whole lot lately about… Reflecting.

No, I’m not thinking about thinking, but thinking about how or even if I am reflecting Jesus Christ in my daily life. For some reason (no, not some reason - it’s one of those Holy Spirit things), the topic of how or if those of us who are followers of Christ reflect His glory to people has been popping up everywhere lately.

Did you ever hear the phrase, “It’s not what you say, but how you say it?” A couple of years ago I took a speaking class that tossed out some percentages. Research finds that when we communicate with each other, 38% is through our tone of voice.

So, I’ve been catching myself (or allowing the Holy Spirit to prick my conscious) about my ‘tude—you know, talking with a not so nice attitude, some people might call it grumpy or even complaining. Oh man, it’s so easy for me to fall into that trap of Satan. The Bible clearly shows what happens in the lives of people who complain: Destruction - not only in our own lives, but often in the lives of those around us – friends, family, even strangers.

For instance, I’d love to write a whole article right now about how I never, well maybe rarely, get to use any coupons I clip (I hate clipping coupons, but I’m trying to save a buck) because they always (usually) expire the day before I go to use them. (Do you hear my whining tone even on the internet?) But I won’t or at least I shouldn’t. The bottom line is it’s not good for me to be trash talking even about the injustice of coupon expiration dates. (Which is ultimately a result of my disorganization in this particular area.)

So, as I end this reflection on “reflecting”, let’s ask ourselves this question before we open our mouth: “Am I reflecting, or am I mirroring Christ with what I say?” And then let’s dig deeper and evaluate our hearts—better yet, let the Word of God show us what needs to change. Because the Bible says that it’s out of the heart that our mouth speaks.

Prayer: Oh Lord, search my heart. I need to pray that dangerous pray of David of old. Know me, find the wicked ways in me. I confess my bad attitude to you now. Forgive me Lord because of Your great mercy and help me to honor You. Please help me to reflect You. Help me to mirror You in all my ways. I love you Jesus. I’ve said it, now may I learn to show it!

“But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” II Corinthians 3:18

Live the adventure,
Susan

Relief

2008-06-11T08:04:00.008-05:00

Sometimes it takes a storm to bring relief...

Did you ever notice how a full blown storm can bring relief from the heat? It all started last night, after I spent the afternoon cleaning out my son's moldy sand box and getting an intense sunburn in 100 degree-plus weather (water must have leaked into the sandbox over the winter and spring months).

I was watering my flowers and some newly planted shrubs with Miracle Grow/water mixture while my six-year-old played with the other water hose. (He has a cute little fireman attachment for it that he can control and spray things with.) Anyhow, Joel turned to me and said, "Mommy, it looks like it's going to rain."

Sure enough, in the western sky a storm was brewing. Thunder rumbled and within minutes dark clouds spanned the horizon. Quickly the stifling, humid environment became a torrent of wind and rain.

This morning I walked out onto my deck and viewed the effects of the storm. Along with a few scattered leaves and water, I gazed at a bright blue sky with thin wisps of white. I leaned against the railing, (the same railing I need to repaint every summer - lol!) and let a cool, refreshing breeze flow across my skin.

I thought about how sometimes we can become so oppressed by the heat of life - trials, troubles, whether physical, emotional, and sometimes spiritual. After all, the Bible says we will experience troubled times and testings.

But just like the Scriptures promise, there is always the calm after the storm. Jesus will be with us in the storm and then He promises to calm it. It may mean relief from a certain situation or it may mean that God just teaches how to endure and adjust.

Let God's cool breeze flow over your life today. Search His Word for life giving promises. Without a doubt, it is refreshing. You will find relief! And remember, sometimes it takes a storm to cool things off!

"But He [Jesus] said to them, 'Why are you fearful, O you of little faith? Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm." Matthew 8:26

Live the adventure,
Susan

A "Fiery" Day

2008-06-09T07:02:00.013-05:00

Boy is it HOT here in Pennsylvania, USA!!!!!!!!

My six-year-old was getting ready to jump into my brother-in-law's pool yesterday after church (praise God for relatives with pools) and he said, "It feels like it's sixty-ten!"

My teenage son and I looked at each other and smiled.

"Yeah, honey," I said. "It feels just like that fiery furnace that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were in." (The temp here in PA has been over 100 with heat indexes soaring over that - excuse us Notherners for not being used to such intense heat and humidity for days in a row.)

"You know what? I think Joel's right." Jared swam across the freshly filled, cold well-water pool. "If you multiply sixty times ten, 600 degrees, that feels like the temperature today."

I threw my head back and laughed. "Well, guys, no matter how hot it is, God was with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fire. And He'll be with us too, even on a hot, hot day!"

See what a fun discussion a little HEAT can bring out?

Upon further investigation this morning, I found an online article that says the approximate temperature of a cooking fire is about 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Multiply that by seven and you get - oh do I have to use my brain this morning - 3500 degrees. [Remember, the nasty king ordered the furnace made seven times hotter.] I think that fiery furnace that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into might have been a bit hotter than that... what do you think? Of course what you use to burn (ie: wood or another substance) makes a difference in the temperature too. My husband just found an online article that says a candle burns at about 1800 degrees Fahrenheit... Oh my, now I'm really confused!

And if you're interested in reading about the true story in the Bible of these brave young men who chose to obey the One true God rather than worship a false god? Check out the book of Daniel, chapter three! Truly our God is amazing--Almighty in power!

Stay cool and live the adventure,
Susan

Oh, BTW - it looks like it's going to be another scorcher... I just walked past the thermometer and it's reading an outdoor temperature of 108.5 degrees... and it's only 9:30 am.

Ready to Climb?

2008-06-06T05:09:00.007-05:00

"Mom, do you like to climb fences?"

It was one of those interesting questions my six-year-old asked while I was driving him home from Kindergarten the other day. I glanced in my rearview mirror at my little blond-haired cutie trying to figure out where that question came from.

"Uh, I don't know," was the best I could come up with. "Why do you ask, buddy?"

My son shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know."

I gave it another moment of thought and suddenly an idea came to me. Wasn't it just yesterday that my son was at his brother's baseball game and climbing up and over a six-foot fence? I decided that my little guy was trying to see if I liked to do what he liked to do.

"You know what? When Mommy was a girl about your age, I liked to climb fences."

Peeking into the rearview mirror, I saw a wide grin form across my son's face.

As I thought about the idea of climbing, a Bible verse came to mind. Even though I'm not climbing fences these days, (I do like to climb rocks when we backpack however), the Bible says I can "leap over a wall."

Listen to Psalm 18:29 & 30: "For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall. As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proved; he is a shield to all those who trust in him." [KJV]

God will help us through and sometimes over life's obstacles. We can trust Him. His Word is proved over and over again. Are you ready to climb?

Live the adventure,
Susan

Stay on Course

2008-06-05T07:01:00.005-05:00

Okay, it seems I'm on a little blogging streak here. (I'm not streaking with my blogging, just blogging on a streak!)

Anyhow, I just read my Joni E. Tada e-devo for today and had to share it with you all here. I just love this particular verse in Isaiah and to hear how God continues to work in Joni's life through the ups and downs of living in pain? Well, I realize once again that I need to humbly submit to whatever God's workings are in my life.

Life can be painful at times--physically and emotionally. But we have a Savior, Jesus Christ, who leads us, who guides us through the power and truth of His Holy Word, the Bible. There is no better direction than that!

Live the adventure,
Susan

Stay on Course

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.'"--Isaiah 30:21

Ken and I were standing with a group of friends on a high bluff, overlooking Chesapeake Bay, when we got into a friendly argument about directions. One person stabbed his finger in the air and said, "That is south." Another countered, "No it isn't. I would swear that's due east." Others threw in their two cents worth, and people began to take sides, becoming entrenched in their opinions.

Finally Ken reached into his duffle bag and said, "I'll solve this one fast." Within seconds the compass confirmed that we had been facing west the whole time. And you know what? Not one of us was about to argue with the compass. We knew it had the final say.

In the same way, if we only look at circumstances around us, we can easily become disoriented. Just a couple of wrong cues and our bearings can get turned upside down, making north look like south, making evil look like good. We risk dangerous wrong conclusions when we try to ascertain God's purpose and plans in our life using only our circumstances for cues.

I have never forgotten that lesson. The longer I am in this wheelchair, the more I need help in keeping my bearings. More and more pain encroaching into my life can turn my feelings "this way and that." I need the Holy Spirit to remind me that there is "a way I should go." Despite the backaches and headaches, I need to hold fast to the blessed Word of God.

As you walk through this day, determine that you will make no decision without first consulting the Lord. Ask him to bring Scriptures to your mind that will help you find-and keep-get your bearings.

Father, how can I be so foolish as to think I can plan my own life itinerary apart from your strong counsel? Guide me, O thou great Jehovah!

Blessings,
Joni and Friends

Turn Toward the Wind

2008-06-04T06:07:00.006-05:00

The following is a short devotional I submitted last summer for a book about Women of the Bible. I haven't heard from the publisher (along with many of my writing friends) so I'm not quite sure what is up with the publishing house. So instead, I decided to share one of my submissions with you here today. I pray it speaks to your heart.

Live the adventure,
Susan

"And the Syrians had gone out on raids, and had brought back captive a young girl from the land of Israel. She waited on Naaman's wife." 2 Kings 5:2

Snatched from her home and family, this girl from Israel served Naaman's wife as a slave in a foreign land. Despite her circumstances, she continued to believe in God and pointed her master in the right direction for healing from his leprosy.

This girl has been a source of encouragement to me when facing life's challenges. Do I run from the storm or turn toward the wind and look to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?

Sometimes we question why God allows trouble to enter our lives. I certainly didn't understand why the Lord allowed me to become a twenty-five-year-old widow raising a newborn son. But God has been faithful to me through the years. I know God has a plan and His plan involves pointing people to Jesus.

It's difficult to adjust to life's turning points. But I've discovered the key to living is keeping my eyes on Jesus and embracing the change.

Plant your feet firmly on the Rock of Christ and turn toward the wind.

Understanding the Truth

2008-06-03T05:58:00.013-05:00

He [Jesus] said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered and said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven." [Matthew 16:15-17]

There are people who say Jesus was a good man. There are people who say Jesus was a prophet. Then there are people who understand the truth. Jesus was more than a good man. Jesus was more than a prophet. Jesus was and still is God! Jesus is THE Christ. Jesus is THE Son of the living God. There is no other! Jesus is THE only way to heaven. (see John 14:6)

Do you know Jesus? Is He your personal Savior? If you want to know more, please email me at skskitt@comcast.net and I'd be happy to share with you from the Bible more about how to have a personal relationship with Jesus.

Live the adventure,

Susan

A Series of Extraordianary Events

2008-05-31T02:08:00.028-05:00

Remember the miracle of Jesus feeding over five thousand people with two fish and five loaves of bread? (Matthew 14:15-21) It's a familiar account for those of us who grew up going to Sunday School. But what happened right before this miracle? And what happened immediately afterward?

The Bible says that Jesus had just heard that his cousin John the Baptist, (cousin from a human standpoint), had been killed--beheaded by Herod the tetrarch. On top of this, Jesus had just been rejected after teaching in the synagogue in His hometown of Nazareth.

So, what did Jesus do? Did He rush off to bring justice for his cousin's murder? Did He get mad about the people's unbelief? No. Jesus departed by boat to a deserted place by Himself. When people from the cities heard, they followed Jesus.

You'd think Jesus might be upset with this invasion of privacy. But He wasn't. In fact the Bible says that when Jesus saw the great multitude of people, "He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick." (Matthew 14:14) Jesus knew what had to be done and out of love, He did it.

Now it started getting late and Jesus' disciples tell Jesus to send everyone away so people may go to the villages and buy themselves food. But Jesus had a different plan--thus the miracle of Jesus feeding over five thousand people with a couple of fish and five loaves of bread. (With twelve baskets full of leftovers too!)

A busy day to be sure! But there's more--much more!

Jesus told His disciples to get into a boat and go to the other side of the sea while He sent the multitudes away. Then Jesus went up into the mountain by Himself to pray. In the middle of the night, a storm hits. Jesus' disciples, many whom are experienced fishermen, are now in a middle of the sea with the winds howling and the waves tossing their boat like a toy.

Check out what happens next. Jesus walks to His disciples across the wind ravaged sea on top of the water! The disciples are all freaked out, thinking they are seeing a ghost. But Jesus says, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid."

Wow--did you catch that? Jesus tells His friends to be happy and to not be afraid--in the middle of the storm! He is with them and it's going to be okay.

Then we see another familiar account taking place. Peter hops out of the boat in the middle of the storm and walks on the water towards Jesus...

A series of extraordinary events. Many of these events we've heard about as isolated stories, but when we take into account that these three events happened in a row? Well, it helps me to put life's events into perspective.

Often I wonder, "What's going to happen next?" or "How am I going to make it through?" But Jesus, my teacher, my healer, my provider, my Savior knows what to do. The Son of God has my life in His hands and He has your life in His hands too--if you know Him.

Be happy! Don't be afraid! Jesus is with you.

Live the adventure,

Susan

"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love." I Corinthians 16:13,14

The Age Thing

2008-05-27T05:31:00.007-05:00

"Mom, how old is James?" my six-year-old son said from his carseat while riding home yesterday from a picnic.

I glanced in the rearview mirror and smiled at the inquiring mind of my little guy. "Your cousin is twenty-years old now. Next birthday he'll be twenty-one."

"Oh. That means he's as old as you."

My grin widened. "Uh, Mommy's a bit older than James, buddy. Mommy's forty-one..."

Don't you just love it when they don't quite get the age thing yet?

When God Moves in Ways We Don't Understand

2008-05-24T11:23:00.017-05:00

My sister called me on my cell phone yesterday. "Sue, did you hear what happened?"

I swallowed hard as she relayed what had flashed across the television screen. Sitting in my car in the gym parking lot, tears fell into my lap. I squeezed my eyes tight as my sister spoke and I began to pray. A wonderful Christian recording artist, Steven Curtis Chapman, lost his youngest daughter in a tragic accident.

From personal experience I know the heartache of what it is like to live with the shock, the grief, and the pain when a loved one dies in an accident. Miraculously, in the midst of the pain, those who know Jesus Christ as personal Savior can have hope. It is to God's promise that we cling when Jesus says, "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also." John 14:1-3 NKJV

It hurts. We grieve. But like the Bible says in I Thessalonians 4:13,14, we do not sorrow as those who have no hope. Our hope, our trust, our faith is in the Lord Jesus Christ and His promises. He gave His life for us on the cross so we can live. Jesus rose again from the dead and offers eternal life to all who would believe. He is our hope, our point of destination.

Through the years, Steven Curtis Chapman's music ministry has profoundly impacted me and my family. In fact, for my fourteenth wedding anniversary this past March, my husband and I traveled to Maryland to hear Steven live in concert. Along with his new album, we listened to one of my favorite songs that talks about life with Jesus Christ: "The Great Adventure".

Today, I just received an email from Shaohannah's Hope, the ministry the Chapmans began to help orphans, asking me to pass along the following information. This will enable people to know how to better pray for and help the Chapman family in this difficult time of loss.

In memory of Maria Sue Chapman (2003-2008)

Last night Maria Sue Chapman, adopted and youngest daughter of Steven Curtis & Mary Beth Chapman, was killed in a tragic accident in the family driveway. She was LifeFlighted to Vanderbilt Children'sHospital, but for only reasons God can explain, she went home to Him... not back to Franklin as we all so desperately wanted.

We are all humbled by the incredible outpouring of love and support at this difficult time. The friends of the Chapmans and Shaohannah's Hope have overwhelmed the website servers and jammed phone lines with gracious words and heartfelt prayers. The Chapman family is so grateful. Obviously, we cherish your prayers for all in the Chapman family, please continue to pray for:

-God's comfort and healing for the whole family, that He would be near to them and they would find refuge in the shadow of His wings

-The church to lift them up in prayer, word, and deed, helping them to bear the burden of this tragic loss

-God to work in glorious ways to quickly pour out His redemption,grace, and peace to all affected by this heartbreaking situation

If you would like to know about Maria and express your condolences, click here.

In lieu of flowers, the Chapman family request that any gifts be directed to Shaohannah's Hope. Click here to find out how you can help.

Clinging to the promises of God,
Susan

"Prayer does not equip us for greater works-- prayer is the greater work."- Oswald Chambers

Praying with Purpose

2008-05-22T06:37:00.006-05:00

This post is a reprint from a small devotional booklet: 30 Days to a More Incredible Relationship with God. I read it several years ago and "randomly" picked it up off my shelf this morning...

Incredibly, (should I really be so surprised at how the Lord works?), this topic of prayer ties right into what our church has been studying at Wednesday night Prayer Meeting and Bible Study. Here's what author Joan L. Guest has to say:

There was nothing remarkable about the phone call. But it marked the beginning of a small crisis of faith.

When I picked up the receiver, my friend said, "Did you hear Susan had her baby? I hate to tell you this, since you had such a hard time in labor, but she got to the hospital at 9:30. About 11:30 she told God she couldn't stand any more. Little Dorthy was born thirty minutes later."

'What did God have against me?' I wondered. All my life I've been surrounded by people who seem to receive dramatic answers to prayer. When my friend and I both prayed and fasted about what college to attend, she got a clear response; I decided for myself, or so it seemed. When my grad school friend needed seventeen hundred dollars for tuition, she received it through an anonymous gift; when I needed money, I got a job.

Does God have a double standard, treating some believers better than others? Or does he simply not hear our prayers? After hearing about Susan's easy labor, I was in danger of becoming a prayer agnostic.

But when I sat down and analyzed my doubts, I wondered if perhaps my whole concept of prayer was wrong. It dawned on me that what I looked for in answered prayer were highly selfish things: cessation of pain, a good job, healing, smooth interpersonal relationships, healthy finances. Rarely were my prayers concerned with bringing God glory. I had instead been hopeful that my life could be as painless as possible. But is that the purpose of prayer?

Jesus, our model for prayer, makes the purpose clear: Thinking of his coming crucifixion, he said, "Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, 'Father save me from what lies ahead?' But that is the very reason why I came! Father, bring glory to your name." (John 12:27,28)

Upon studying the Scriptures, I discovered that the real purpose of prayer is not to obtain special blessings. It's to establish intimacy with God through regular communication with him. Without prayer, our relationship with God is one-sided; he communicates with us through his Word, but we don't return the favor. Certainly God knows our hopes and fears, our thoughts and feelings, before we tell him. But telling God these things changes our perspective.

How often do we pray as Christ did? How often do we say, "Father, bring glory to your name?"

God promises no hassle-free life for his people. In fact, he's most often glorified in times of suffering. God's greatest work was to do nothing while his Son died on a cross--despite the undoubtedly fervent prayers of Jesus' followers and Jesus' own Gethsemane prayer.

When I think of people whose deep Christian character and spiritual maturity have most influenced me, I think of people who have suffered. Why? Because in suffering, they've glorified God and grown profoundly in faith.

And that I've discovered, is the purpose of prayer.

Prayer is cooperation with God: not getting what I want, but learning what he wants. [Elizabeth Elliot Gren]

Live the adventure,
Susan

Once Upon a Book MeMe

2008-05-21T06:10:00.006-05:00

Books, books, books. I do love reading books. How about you?

Here’s the “drill”. Tracy tagged me to participate in this Book MeMe. If you feel like playing along, here are the rules. I know this Meme’s been floating around for a while, but I thought I’d give it a go. I was disappointed, however, with what sentences were on page 123 of my book.

1. Pick up the nearest book
2. Open to page 123
3. Find the fifth sentence
4. Post the next three sentences
5. Tag five people and acknowledge who tagged you.

Well, I’m not up to tagging five people, but here’s my go of it. If you feel like playing along, feel free!

“Hadassah stared out her port with a calm that surprised her. The aircraft traced a largely seaborne route, avoiding the dry lands of Western Europe, out through the Strait of Gibraltar and then sharply north along the Spanish and French coasts, to the English Channel. The F-16’s, which unlike the private jet had required midair refueling during the journey, only peeled away when the Gulfstream approached the British airspace two miles from Dover.” [The Hadassah Covenant: A Queen’s Legacy, Bethany House Publishers, page 123]

I like page 319 better. It will give you a glimpse of the most exciting part of the story:

“Swaying to halt her momentum, she found herself staring down the five thousand feet of thin desert air and sunshine. Squinting against the light, she looked down. The terrorist was a thin dot. Still flying. She could see the edges of his jacket ballooning around him.” (This is where the Prime Minister’s wife, Hadassah, chases her would be assassin right over a cliff! You go girl!)

I’m not a big reader of military intrigues, but I like those kinds of movies, though. So overall this book bored me. It took me 319 pages to get to something good. But like a tried and true reading trooper, I finished my birthday present book from August 2006! I finally sat down and read the book that I asked for two summers ago!

As far as non-fiction books, I'm probably in the middle of about 6 or so, crazy huh? But once I start a fiction book (my fav), I like to finish. Hmm... what does that say about this adventure girl?

So, what are you all reading out there? Any good books lately? I’m up for one! I think my next buy will be a Brandilyn Collins. Thriller anyone? I received a lovely little gift card to Barnes & Noble from one of the MOPS groups I spoke to the other week. I may even have enough left for a cup of my favorite hot chocolate!

Live the adventure,
Susan

Finding Rest

2008-05-19T12:08:00.006-05:00

Jesus says:

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

Lord, I believe...

Susan

The Importance of the Word of God

2008-05-15T07:01:00.010-05:00

So what is it about the Bible that's so important? Jesus knew...

And He still does. When God the Son came down to earth as a human being, He experienced first hand the importance of knowing the Holy Scriptures. In fact, I was amazed once again when reading in the Gospel of Matthew just how important God’s Word really is.

In Matthew chapter four, we learn that the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness. It was here after forty days and forty nights of fasting that Satan tempts Jesus. Right away, the devil goes into attack mode saying, "IF You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread." (ch. 4 v.3) Now the Bible says that physically, Jesus was hungry. Remember, He is fully God, but also fully man.

Instead of listening to Satan and giving in to His hunger, Jesus answers in a very interesting way. He begins His response with three very important words. These words are critical for us to understand what to do when we are tempted to do something wrong.

It is written... Yes, Jesus, answers Satan with the Word of God, the written Word, and He quotes Scripture saying, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God."

Jesus successfully passes the first test: The lust of the flesh.

Test number two isn't far behind. The Bible says the devil took Jesus up into the holy city and set Him on the top of the temple and says, "IF You are the Son of God, throw yourself down. For it is written: 'He shall give His angels charge over you,' and 'In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.' (ch. 4 v.6)

So that old deceiver tries to get tricky. He tries to twist Scripture for His own purpose. But Jesus knows God's Word perfectly. Remember, He is the Author.

Listen to what Jesus says, "It is written again, 'You shall not tempt the LORD Your God.'" Jesus was not fooled and He did not give into the lust of the eyes. Jesus wasn't about to show His power in a way that was prideful. That's not what God is about.

In a last ditch effort, the devil tries one more time by taking Jesus on a very high mountain and shows Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. Then Satan says, "All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me." (ch. 4 v. 9)

Nothing doing. Jesus lays it on the line. "Away with you, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only shall you serve." (ch. 4 v. 10)

And the Bible says Satan left Jesus and angels came and ministered to Him.

Wow, Jesus passes the final test—the pride of life— with flying colors.

You see, that old deceiver hasn't changed much from the time He tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden. Remember what He said to Eve in Genesis? "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?" (Gen. 3:1) See how the devil tries to create doubt?

Eve caves into doubt in three key areas: The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Genesis 3:6 says, "So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, (the lust of the flesh) that it was pleasant to the eyes, (the lust of the eyes) and a tree to make one wise, (the pride of life) she took of its fruit and ate."

She totally disregarded God, choosing to disobey His Word about eating that fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden. God said in Genesis 2:16, 17 "Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day you eat of it you shall surely die."

And humankind is still experiencing the effects of sin and death, both physically and spiritually. But Jesus made a way out!

Jesus came to save us from our sin. He passed all the tests—perfectly. That's why only Jesus could be the sacrifice for our sin that separates us from a Holy God. When we ask Jesus to forgive our sin and come into our heart and life, we are forgiven. He gives us life both spiritually and physically.

When the winds of doubt blow through the corners of my mind, I can learn to humbly submit myself to God and the truth of His Word. James 4:7,8 says, "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

Don't let Satan tempt you into wondering "IF". It's easy to begin to doubt when life doesn’t work out as we had hoped—when sickness comes our way, or financial stress, or loneliness. Jesus is God. He is always right. There is no "ifs". You and I can rely on Him and the promises of His Word to see us through!

From a practical and personal perspective, I went shopping yesterday for an outfit for my niece's wedding. I found a nice skirt and jacket combo, but after that I came home with one too many "deals". Looking at it from God's perspective, I gave in to the lust of the eyes for sure. We don't have the money for extra purchases right now. So, I'm packing up my bag with my extra clothes, even though they looked so nice, (I'm keeping the pretty combo for the wedding) and I will be returning what I really don't need to the store today.

I'm glad for the convicting and practical power of God's Word. How about you?

Live the adventure,
Susan

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." I John 2:15-17

The "Scoop" on this Mother's Day

2008-05-12T16:01:00.015-05:00

Okay, here's the real deal. I'll tell it to you straight...

Some of you, my dear blogging friends, have wondered about my Mother's Day!

We woke up, went to church like usual, and participated in a very nice service worshiping the Lord. My friend, Crystal, who is very talented with gardens, brought in long stem red and pink roses for all the mothers at our little country church in the city.

Then my hubby dear and my brother-in-law stayed after church to fix broken wiring in a light in the church sanctuary. My sister and I ran across the street from the church for pizza for our hungry kids. By three o'clock the "boys" were done their deacon duty and my sister went home to help her sons with homework and her husband, a Lieutenant in the Philadelphia Fire Department went into work.

My hubby Jim (who had to work early Sunday morning for the computer service company he works for, met us at the morning worship service) then drove our six-year-old home, (my little guy wanted to ride with Daddy). I had a few golden moments of driving in silence before I picked up my sixteen-year-old who went to visit my late husband's mother and their family.

After picking up my oldest son, we raced home so my hubby and teenager could cut our one acre lawn that is growing like wild before a rain storm hit! I cleaned up a dog poop that our epileptic Yellow Lab left for me in her dog crate, opened all the windows in the house so it didn't smell like a barnyard, and gave the dog her flea and tick treatment and heart-worm pill.

After the guys were done the lawn, I opened my Mother's Day cards, (very nice-oh my little guy was so excited to give a card that he and his brother recorded their voice to and had music) and a small but much appreciated gift from my hubby of cut Savannah tea, which has a yummy chocolate, almond, and vanilla flavor!

Then we hurried off to the evening church service. On the way home we picked up some cheesecake from the grocery store because I had an intense craving after hearing my other sister had a slice for Mother's Day from The Cheesecake Factory. Add to that a cup of my new tea made by my loving hubby, my day was nearly complete. Of course, bedtime duties for my little one were next. But hey, that's part of what being a mother is all about!

Nothing super special, but fine nonetheless. My husband kind of felt bad, but I told him our trip to Outback Steakhouse the week before made a nice Mother's Day gift and it sure beat the crowds yesterday!

How about you? How did you celebrate Mother's Day this year?

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-10T16:18:00.005-05:00

"As one

whom his
mother comforteth,
so will I comfort you..."
Psalm 66:13