Freedom: Do we really understand that in America?

Today we met with several local pastors and had the privilege to pray for them. This was in place of going to one of the children’s homes. Due to the weather, they had to cancel that activity. I honestly was heart broken, but deep down I know that we were meant to be with these pastors. We had breakfast and then met the pastors in our hotel dining room for coffee and discussions. However, it was quickly realized that we had to move to a safer place. The mayor of the town was also eating breakfast- they (along with several other tables) were listening to our conversation. This put them in grave danger. In this particular city (along with many more in India) if one wishes to change their religion they must go before the town and publically declare that no one has coerced them to changing religions. They must document their religious choice. It is my prayer that even though we moved the prayer meeting to another room, they do not experience harm from meeting with us. The pastors remained downstairs to eat and one at a time, they came up to one of our rooms- where we had gathered- to share their testimony.

For the first time, I honestly felt a bit on edge while in India. Am I concerned about my safety, yes; however, I am more concerned for those we met with. They have been beaten; locked up by villagers; stones thrown at them; motorcycles damaged (primary means of transportation); and gone through many other forms of persecution- all because they worship God.

So, tonight (or today depending on when I post this) take a minute to thank God that you have the freedom to worship the one true God. It is a freedom not to be taken lightly and one I fear we often do take for granted. Thank a soldier today as well.

Even though we arrived at 330am, there were people from CICM waiting to welcome us and to make certain we were taken care of as we traveled from the station to the mission. It is quite obvious that we are potential targets- Caucasians in general are not very common; however, a group with four white chicks probably stands out a little more. Even though our train was late (over 1 ½ hours late), someone was waiting at one of the stations to provide us with food- food that was prepared safely for us to eat.

We came through the gates (which have crosses on them) and upon our arrival to the CICM Children’s Home (different than the one we did not get to go to), there was a welcome banner with our team members’ names on it. Our rooms are very nice- I, again, have my own room and private bath. Being the lone single female on the trip has its advantages. 

On the train, San jay opened the door for me to watch the countryside go by It was so beautiful. I find myself wondering and wanting to shoot CLEAN IT UP. Trash is everywhere. What I must realize is that the people have lived like this a very long time and in a country without God they cannot see the same beauty in the world that I do. We went by rice field after field, the sun was starting to set, and all I can think about is how much God loves the people here. Yet, many of them do not know it.

Cows are a god here (just so you know I think our first meal in NY will involve BEEF- something even McDonald’s does not sell in India. They have chicken burgers.) yet they are just allowed to roam the streets with no care provided to them. They eat the garbage in the streets.

We are all gaining so much from this experience; we are not in one place very long, what difference does this make for the people? Our hosts told us that the people we meet are honored that we are not just sending money (although I believe people are meant to do that) but that we have taken the time out of our lives to come to visit them.

We have gained more than we have given, but we know that God had a reason for us to be here- He knew we were coming and He knows the needs of both the missionaries here as well as the people on our team.

We are preparing for a busy few days- touring CICM tomorrow along with a rest break in the afternoon. Then, we will be divided up to teach at the CICM schools and ultimately, will be able to see and help at the medical camp.

Protected. . .

I have so much I wish to write, but this morning, I am in awe of God's protection. . . How often are we in situations that we know God is watching over us? How often are we in situations where the danger is not actually perceived but that God carefully orchestrates the situation to protect us? I think, as Christians, we are often in situations where God is protecting us and we may not even know of the danger.

Yesterday, during our car ride, the 3 vehicles had a certain order. I was in the vehicle that did not have a CICM staff member (a native person), but instead carried 5 from the team. Sonjay, the director of our trip, made certain the drivers knew we were to be the middle car- that was for our safety. Due to the rain, it made it a bit hard to always see up ahead so the drivers would stop to make certain the group had caught up. For the record, we have excellent drivers.

Our driver made a stop, apparently without permission. When the other drivers realized this, they came back to the site. I have never seen (and other that have known him longer agree) Sonjay so mad. Our driver was given a good scolding. I honestly, felt sorry for him, but that does put us in danger. We are in a situation where we don't know the language, there are many cultural customs we may not understand, and it is not a country where Christians are openly welcomed.

Later on last night, I was thinking about this situation. Isn't it amazing how God uses the people around us for our protection? Isn't it even more amazing how many times the danger may be ahead but God is always present?

I also thought about the wrath of God- Sonjay was very mad because the driver did not listen. How often does God get angry with me for not obeying, not listening? How often do we put our plans ahead of his? Yet, through HIS GRACE, I am able to be forgiven. I think Cliff said it best, we know what we need to do, we just get caught up in the planning. That is true. Our model needs to be God Use me where I am at and with the people I encounter.

Trusting him is the only way.

Church Dedication

I had said I would not pay for internet for another day; however, we may have limited access in the next town (will be there for 2 days), so I decided to splurge. I also felt I really wanted to attempt to share the emotions from today.

We were able to share in the dedication of the church that Christ’s Church built. It was amazing. We were treated like royalty- people who have very little gave us all so much. And more importantly, we were able to share in worship together. When we arrived at the church, we were greeted by hundreds of people lining the street, throwing flowers, and singing praises. Tim cut the ribbon to open the doors and then we were taken in to see the dedication sign (picture posted). WOW! I think we were all overcome with emotion.

I think Marty said it best when he gave the communion meditation- We have different languages, different cultures but the same God who extends us grace. (I paraphrased a bit, but that is the gist). . . Isn’t that how Heaven is going to be?

We are going to be sitting around at a big feast- man, woman, child, American, Indian, European, Asian. . .

Too often, we are caught up in our service- we get stuck on tradition (must be a certain way because it has always been done that way) and the bottom line is this: God came for us all. No matter the style of music we select, or the way we sing (and I take the JOYFUL NOISE to a whole other meaning!), we are all the body of Christ.

I am listening to Aaron Shust a lot during this trip. . . He sings a song, “My hope is in you.” It is time for Christians around the world to get real- and primarily I am speaking to Americans (myself included in that group). This world is temporary. There is nothing- NOTHING- we are taking with us. He sings in this song, “My hope is in you all the day long. I won’t be shaken by drought or storm. The peace that passes understanding is my song. My hope is in you Lord. . . You are my refuge!”

India is still a country of persecution for Christians. These men and women are often rejected by family members, lose jobs, and are harmed by choosing to be a Christian. How many times do we say on Sunday morning, oh let’s just sleep in? How many times do we fail to realize what a freedom we have to be able to attend a worship service? We complain about the AC not working or what color carpet we are going to put in the building. Yet, the people we worshiped with today have gone for years without even a building. God has grown their church to 1000 members/attendees; they have two services each Sunday. Now, that sounds like a large number (and it is), but keep in mind how many people actually live in India. There are many more that need to be reached here.

Today, as we traveled a bit more out of the city, we saw even more poverty. At lunch today (we had pizza hut as the teens on the trip wanted that and honestly, we all wanted something a bit more American), we were again approached by many little children (some only 6 or 7 and carrying baby siblings) begging for money. They will steal from you as well, so you are instructed to keep walking and hold tight to your belongings. It breaks your heart. But, I know that God is still faithful. He loves them the same as he loves me and he died for them. Who is going to tell them about Christ?

India needs more people to come. They need more preachers. They need financial support. CICM is making a huge impact, and praise God for their presence here. Yet, more is needed. I would encourage you to pray for our team, but also pray for those that are here every day- in the front lines leading people to Christ.

We leave at 4am for our next destination- we have a flight around 545am and will then have the day of rest prior to meeting with another church- one of the earliest CICM churches. Thank you for your prayers!

Prayer Mirror. . .

Many of you have heard me mention my "prayer mirror," before. Several people have asked me or commented on how I do that. I have been meaning for a while to post a picture of the wall. However, it was my desire to keep most of it anonymous. I felt that was only fair. Today, I updated the list. Please note, that this is a partial list. I have other people I pray for listed in my Journal. I also did not wish to post names, so I used descriptions of the situations. Some of you will automatically identify who you are in this. . . Others will not.

At the last women's meeting my table asked questions about how I did this and wanted more details. . . Honestly, I cannot take credit for the idea. . . It came from someone I dated a long time ago. The idea stuck and I love it. Simply put, you take a dry erase marker and write daily prayer requests, the list changes throughout the month or week at times. Every so often, I erase it and rewrite. Today was a rewrite day . . . and, already looking at the picture, I know of 4 additions . . . They will be added tonight.

I believe in the power of prayer!! Prayer is one of the steps of communicating with God. . . You also need to be in the word and worship DAILY, HOURLY, and Every Minute/Second of the day. . .

I pray for these people when I am in the shower, when I am brushing my teeth, or fixing my hair. . . I also have a daily prayer time with God for these folks along with others. . .

This is what works for me and I thought I would share. I encourage you to find time throughout your day to pray for folks.

Lent. . .

I never posted what I was giving up for Lent. . . French Fries. . .

Still More from Belize. . .

More Belize Photos. . .

Belize Update. . .

I have been so busy since my return from Belize that I have not been able to take the time to do an update and share a few photos from my trip to Belize. God was good on this journey and I know He allowed me to be there for many reasons.













For those that were not aware, I became ill prior to my flight home. It was not a fun experience vomiting in the air (my first), and it has taken some time for my body to finally recover. Thankfully, I have been feeling better the past few days due to many prayers (a great physician, and good medications have helped as well!) In the course of my recovery, I became sick with an URI. Thankfully, that is also on the mend. God blesses me daily and I see his hands in the journey.

Belize was a good trip for me. It allowed me to spend time with Eric and Julie Maas, both strong Christians. I was able to spend time with their children, and to honestly, fall in love with the people they serve. God was very evident throughout this journey. Many people were praying as I went through customs. Those prayers were answered when I went through customs and everything made it through!

While there, God allowed me to interact with a local nurse who has been in service for over 25 years in Belize. She started the clinic literally in a shack. The funny thing was, she ministered more to me while I saw patients in the clinic than I felt I gave to the patients I saw. God knew I needed to hear her life story. She told me of a failed engagement and how she knew God brought her husband to her. She felt called to serve as a nurse in the mission field. Her idea was to serve in Africa. God's plan was to have her serve in Belize. What a blessing she has been to many people in that area.

I saw many patients while there and was able to talk with one of the local nurses from PA. One couple came in to simply ask Nurse Juan questions as their child had been diagnosed at a pediatric office with Lupus. However, they were not given any information on the disease. I was able to explain this process to them, and to pray for their child. I also saw many prenatal patients and a few pediatric patients.

I also spent time at the orphanage and was able to interact with several of the children. Two of them have autism. Many of them are from homes where abuse was frequent. I was not allowed to take pictures of the children, but have their faces etched in my brain (and honestly, on my heart!) One child was only 11 months old and was beautiful.

Julie, Cierra, and I took a trip to the Mayan Ruins. A girl afraid of heights and with a history of two broken feet, climbed to the top of one of the most popular ruins I was praying that I would not loose my footing. Julie and Cierra were so patient and God allowed me the ability to see one of the greatest views on earth- from the top of the Xunantunich Mayan Ruin.

Sunday, I spent time in prayer and worship. I also attended the wedding renewal of some local missionaries. I was able to meet and talk with two of the people who were very instrumental in helping my approval to practice "go through." It was nice to attend their wedding and to meet many local people.

Monday morning, I spent time at the local school where I was asked to teach sex education. Literally, I received the message on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, when I was flying out. Swallow, gulp, swallow. Sex education is talked about a lot at my job, so I was comfortable with the topic, but was more concerned about how to cross the cultural barriers, how to make certain they heard what applied to their situation, how to make them listen to a stranger. It went well. They were attentive, and asked good questions. The local Carolina Pregancy Center helped me out a lot by providing materials for me to take. Many people were praying and I felt those prayers.

This is a rather short update and I could write more and more. . . but I want the opportunity to share some pictures. I took over 800 images. . . so, this is truly just a "taste of Belize!"

Merry Christmas!

I wanted to send this out earlier this week, but time managed to jump away this week. It seems work was a bit slammed prior to the holiday season.

As I write this, I am in my cozy and curled up in front of a warm fire, and with my family. I am spending Christmas with my parents this year, not going to anyone else's house. I decided to do this many weeks ago when I made the decision to head to Belize over Thanksgiving.

We will have several other events with extended family this weekend, and I am happy for those times. But, tonight, I am so blessed to be sitting in my parent's home. In the morning, we will read the Christmas story, and share a brunch. Due to many things, we opted to not exchange gifts among our family. And, quite frankly, it has made for the best holiday.

I am warm and cozy, but my mind continues to think about the dear Christ Child, born in a stable, sleeping in a manager. No cozy bed. No My mind goes to Mary, laboring (umm, can I say EPIDURAL as soon as I come in to deliver??). My mind thinks of Joseph, was he scared? Was he able to softly whisper words of comfort to his wife? What did he think of the shepherds? the star? the magi? What events/moments did Mary "ponder in her heart?"

I hope you have a blessed Christmas with your family and friends! Thank you for being a blessing in my life!

Merry Christmas from a Bloggy Friend. . .

I have not posted this, and it is way way way over due! I was so surprised and pleased about my goodies from my bloggy friend. . .

THANK YOU for my gifts!

Horrible Blogger Lately. . .

Time has just literally gotten away from me. . .over a month since I last blogged?? HELP!!! Why is my life so crazy?? Why can't I see some light??

Well, I was able to see a BIG LIGHT today!! My God truly is able. . .

I am going to do a post soon about my trip, and Christmas. . . but, for now, I am going to rejoice in the fact that MY GOD IS ABLE!!!

Day 5 of 60

Day 5 went well, I bought two things though. . . But, both were needed items, so that's ok. . . I went to Revival and am loving every minute of it!!

He preached on John 3:16. . .
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

The Symphony of God's Love. . . Great sermon! Great speaker! Great music! God is amazing! Praise Him for many talents that are being displayed.

Please be in prayer for tonight as it is the last meeting of the Revival. Pray for someone in particular who will be there that needs to make a confession of faith. God is at work!

Faith Walkin'

Who are you putting your faith in?

JESUS!! I am posting a link to My Passionate Pursuit where I joined in on the Saturday Steps of Faith.




I really needed to read her post today. It reflects on the post I made last night as well as some other areas of my life. . . I was completing bible study this morning on HOPE. Hope. A simple word of only 4 letters, but what powerful meaning it has for Christians. Who do you put your hope in? The exercise was to draw a picture that describes your picture of Hope. . . For me, it is the cross. "And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Romans 5:5

What are you believing God for this week? Will you join me?

I am believing God will provided for a financial need, for my dad's health, and that He has my future in his hands.

All Dressed Up. . .

Here are some pictures from the local Carolina Pregnancy Center Banquet.

My Treat from Deeper Still

I promise I am going to write some about Deeper Still Soon!
But, this was my prize to myself from that trip. . .

Deeper Still- I'm coming! :o)

I am leaving soon for the Deeper Still Conference this weekend in Greensboro. . . I need it. . .I am at a very dry point in my life.. . Thank goodness for my bloggy friends as well as my church friends. . .or, just friends in general! And, thank you for Christ. . . I know I can take this all to him and shout/cry/scream/ask and it's gonna be ok. I like that about Him.

I am struggling with two areas in my life- my parents and their situation as well as my singleness. Now, normally, I love being single (well some parts of it). . . but, here lately, I want a husband. It may seem strange, but I desire to find a husband so I can serve him. . .And, I'd like a couple of kids. Children to raise in a Christian home. Children to teach and nurture. . .

Now, I am not saying that I don't have a lot going for me. . I do. I have a great church family, an amazing family, a nice home, and so many blessings I could write for hours on my blessings. . . but, since my ride will be here in a little less than 2 hours. . .I'd better end this post. .

Looking forward to Deeper Still and some Renewal time!! Looking forward to spending time with two of my best friends- Erica and Jessica. . . We both went to college together. . . Sounds like fun!!

Great Quote

"I believe God is managing affairs and that He doesn't need any advice from me. With God in charge, I believe everything will work out for the best in the end. So what is there to worry about."

Henry Ford

Scriptures for June and First of July. . .

Psalm 19:14
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.


Psalm 145:3
Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.


Isaiah 30:21
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."

Sorry I am late posting these. . . Just realized I hadn't posted them tonight!!

Update on Prayer Requests

I hope that everyone is doing well! :o) It is always hard to believe when July hits that we are past the 1/2 way point of the year. This summer been busy but it has been a great blessing.

My parents are doing well considering all that has happened. Some days, I am just amazed at how steadfast they are in their ability to "keep on, keeping on." My dad is still waiting on surgery. It is frustrating, and we pray daily (some days it seems hourly) that he will be able to have surgery soon. Please continue to pray for their situation. He was really down tonight, yet I know God's timing is not our own.

My ankle/foot is doing well. We are in the process of completing my rehab (YEAH!!) and I have more range of motion than prior to the surgery. What a blessing and I am grateful to have improvement. I still have a journey ahead of me, but am pleased with the process. I am back to the gym and hope to return to running soon.

I am in the process of some changes at work. For those that do not know, my 1/2 day is being moved. It is not ideal for my family as my parents had many appointments scheduled based on my day off and my grandmother was coming to stay with me several weeks (starting on Wed. afternoon). My new 1/2 day is on Monday afternoon. Please pray for my family as we make many adjustments due to this change. I firmly believe God does have a reason for it, but it is adding more stress to our current situation. I see daily how God continues to be faithful and I will trust him.

I am also asking for prayer as our Women's Group begins a new bible study this Thursday night. I am excited as we "clean out our thought closets!" Please pray that God will help me as I facilitate this study. Please pray for the ladies God has place in this group.

To give you a quick update on Belize: We need/want folks to go with us!! So, let me know if you would like to come ASAP!! We are looking for medical folks and any other people who feel God calling them to serve in this capacity. Your life will be changed forever!! We leave September 30 and we would love to have you going with us. We will be working in a local medical clinic that is actually ran by people from the United States.

Thank you for praying!

Updates. . .

I hope you are all well. I apologize for not sending a few updates. Life has been very busy. . . BUT, several folks have emailed or called, so I thought I would finally return a few messages. Please note, that if you contacted me on my birthday last week, I had over 20 voice mail messages as well as multiple emails, and am finally returning phone calls.

My parents had another appointment on Wednesday. My sister and I both were able to go as I was on vacation for my birthday. I turned the big 3-0 last Thursday and had decided months ago to take some time off. Anyway, over the past week and a half we have had to make some tough decisions as a family. I believe that through prayer and seeking God's will, we have made the best choices. And, I see God building a wall! (A reference from a friend).

I ask for prayer regarding my job. Long story short, some schedule changes are going to take place at work that will impact my ability to be off for my parents. I know that God has a plan for this change and I am seeking his guidance concerning this issue. And, I am not worried or concerned. It will all work out- God had this all planned long ago!

One of my bible study gals asked me this past week, how did I deal with the fact that I pray and pray and pray and God "has not answered" my prayer requests. WOW. Talk about a deep discussion. I responded by saying, that I continue to pray, knowing he is answering me. My timing is not God's timing. And, he continues to show me HE IS IN THIS situation. On June 2, I asked for prayer for my parents. . . God allowed me to have over 30 minutes to go to my office, close the door and pray. I had asked God to give me amble time that morning to be in prayer. He answered that request as only a few patients came to our normally steady walk-in clinic. God is good! He will answer my other requests as well.

I am pleased to report that I am walking with just a boot- crutch free! Yeah!! I have been driving for the past week. Although it takes me additional time in the morning, I am so blessed to be able to do it. God continues to walk with me daily and I praise HIM for that!

Thank you again for praying! God is amazing and I am so amazed by HIS GRACE!