Abound in Hope

What I Really Do Love

2012-01-31T14:05:00.000-06:00

My Jessica brought up something over the Christmas holiday that keeps coming back into my head. I catch my self messing up but I'm trying to do better. It's all about the overly used word love. It seems Jessica has a friend at college who recognized the word was overly used and has been trying to say instead, "enjoy." Like this - instead of, "I love Blue Bell ice cream" (which, I would have a hard time saying I didn't cause I think I might) I could say, "I enjoy Blue Bell ice cream." Or, "I enjoy beautiful Spring-like days in January when it was icy & cold this time last year."

Here's my question: does it de-value the things we really do love if we say we love something wonderfully awesome like Blue Bell ice cream or beautiful Spring-like days in January? Or, if we say we love a movie or a great book we just read (like the Hunger Games trilogy) or a new piece of furniture? And, a second question: why do we love so many things that are worldly and fleeting and, ultimately, unimportant?

Here's what I really love, I mean REALLY love: God, His written Word, Johnny Dickerson, the 3 kids that I gave birth to, my parents, Johnny's parents, my church (not the building, the people, the family), my brothers & their wives & kids, my sister-in-law & her husband & her daughters & their families, my friends. I think the list could go on a bit. I's not an exhaustive list by any means. I love the ladies I meet with for Bible study. I can't figure out, though, if my dog should be on the love list. I mean, I really am fond of her but I think it might be love. And, she's definitely higher on the list than Blue Bell ice cream.

Jesus warned us about loving earthly treasure. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:21) The greatest treasure we have, after all, is the one we carry around in our earthen vessel - it's the gospel of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:7) And, I do love the gospel of Jesus Christ. I love what it's done in my life and how I don't have to depend on myself.

That's what I really love. Now, what I am borderline hating today is cleaning my youngest child's room. Not just cleaning, but taking every single thing out of there because I am having some furniture delivered tomorrow. It's an awful job, I'm not going to lie. I'm going to enjoy the results, though, that's for sure!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Pure and Undefiled Religion

2012-01-30T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. James 1:27

I'm working through Beth Moore's Bible study on the New Testament book of James and I got to the above verse. Here's a few sentences written by her in references to the verse, "You don't live this kind of life accidentally. You make up your mind who you want to be and daily die to the rest. You surrender yourself to living in the tension where you'll always be stretched and often be broken. Religion pure and undefiled is grit without the grime. You accept that far easier ways to live exist, but you were born for nothing less."(James: Mercy Triumphs, 86)

I've been thinking about that this morning. I admit, I do have an easy life. No doubt. I have an amazingly wonderful family, a comfortable home, plenty to eat, more electronics than I even need to keep me in touch with the world, a really great church, and awesome people around me to share life. I see so many opportunities around me to serve others, to give of my time and resources, and I know God is calling me to give and to go. But it's not hard. Seeing people living in poverty is hard but doing what I can to help is not. Hearing someone pouring out their heart in absolute sorrow is hard but being there for her is not. Hearing statistics about abortion and STDs and unplanned pregnancies is hard but giving a few hours every week to be there for women making major life choices is not. Hearing about someone in need is hard but giving is not - I have more than I need.

I totally get what Beth Moore meant when she wrote the above. And, yes, sometimes I feel the pull of culture and worldliness. And sometimes I am sucked in. But, for the most part, I feel so over-abundantly blessed that I have no choice but to give, to go, to be there. I don't know why God chose to bless me. But I do know what He's called me to do as a result. And it's not too hard because whatever He calls me to do He equips me for that task. It's not the life I chose but the one He chose for me. Maybe the hard part is the obedience, walking faithfully. Praying harder, studying more. Yet, even that feels like a privilege.

I'm thankful for the privilege.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

The Family Dinner

2012-01-12T17:05:00.000-06:00

Following is a fairly accurate recollection of the conversation between the cash register guy (checker) and the fella who put my groceries (bagger) into my earth-friendly re-usable bags this afternoon at the Kroger not too far from my house:

Bagger - What happened to the days when you used to go to the store with your mom and you helped her sack the groceries then she went home and made you dinner?
Checker - Man, those days are gone. They went out in the '90s.

Which, by the way, is fairly hilarious considering it is highly likely that both of those fellas were born in the 90s. Possibly getting close to the mid-90s at that. It is a sad commentary on our culture, however. Really, whatever happened to the family dinner?

We don't take the family dinner for granted at the Dickerson house. I don't know how many times Johnny and I looked around the table during the Christmas break, when all 5 of us were sitting around the table, and said how thankful we were for it. With the college kids gone most of the time we relish, crave the times we are all together - and, especially when we have our kids selfishly to ourselves.

The beginning of the school year was a little tough on all of us but maybe especially for the high school boy that got left behind. We recounted that to the 2 college kids over the break. We laughed about it particularly when the high school boy said, "Yeah, you 2 went off to DBU and teamed up together and left me alone with Thelma and Louise." I laughed hysterically! None of us admitted to ever seeing a movie by that title and don't know anything about the characters. Jacob even said he didn't know why he said it but, if you know Jacob at all, he is just a funny, funny person. Our family tradition going around the table and saying "one good thing about your day" at dinner is missing something when 2 people that make up the circle are gone.

But, the college kids did go back and there will be just 3 of us at dinner tonight. I have to go to a meeting at 5:30 but I'll be back in time to whip up a simple dinner for those of us left behind. Because, afterall, I don't want Jacob to miss out on telling us that all-important one-good-thing-about-his-day even though it irritates him at times. Oh, you know, it's just a conversation starter.

But, as for you, don't let the family dinner become extinct! Don't let your kids think it's a thing of the past or something people did decades ago.

Long live the family dinner!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Passion 2012 From My Perspective

2012-01-06T14:50:00.000-06:00

I'm so glad I took notes at Passion2012 because I experienced so much that, really, I don't know if I'll even be able to adequately express it today. Maybe part of that is that we got in around 3 am and I was up at 9:00. And, I'm still processing some of it - 45,000 people in the Georgia Dome for Jesus and the cause of Freedom. I remember thinking one night that I never want to forget what it looks like and sounds like when 45,000 people - mostly 18 - 25 year olds - lift up their voices in praise to God. And then I thought, even more, of what an amazing privilege it was to be there with my own 3 kids. Sitting behind them, watching them sing and praise was total happiness and left me feeling overwhelmingly blessed.

Although some of the messages preached used passages in Luke as the main text, the main Scripture for the week was the book of Ephesians. Ephesians 5:14, "Awake, sleeper (or, rise up, sleeper), and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." Passion2012 was not just about what happened in the 4 days we were there but what will happen now, as we are back in our regular lives. Francis Chan said something like this Tuesday night - The greatest thing that could happen would be if we would really believe the Word of God and then do what it says. Later he asked, "How can we sit around when such serious things are happening?"

If you know me at all you know my favorite band of all time (except, of course, my boys' band) is the David Crowder Band. They did a concert Monday night and led worship in one of the other sessions later in the week. It was their last show, their last time to be the David Crowder Band. When Louie Giglio called them back on stage at the end of the session to give us a chance to express just a bit of appreciation Jessica looked down the row at me and said, "Are you crying." Why yes I was. I can't really express it but their music has meant so much to me. Even their brand new cd (which I purchased while there) is amazing. I understand about new chapters and new seasons, though. I totally get that.

Wednesday night, the last evening session, started with the Passion band leading us in worship. One of my favorite songs we sang that night was "I'm Not Ashamed of the One Who Saved My Soul." Christy Nockels sang, "Waiting Here for You" which Jessica had been waiting all week to hear. If you don't know it, it's a slower song. Shortly after that, they filmed a music video for a song called "27 Million" about modern-day slavery that had thousands and thousands and thousands of people literally jumping up and down. Such a cool sight from where we were sitting up top. That was followed by Lecrae rapping. I actually enjoyed it, especially "Background." Lecrae said he could be called the Mailman because he's just delivering the message!!

The last day, in the closing session, Louie Giglio challenged us to take Ephesians 6:19-20 and put it at the top of our prayer list. So I came home and got my brand new prayer journal that a lady from my class gave me and wrote the verses in it as my prayer for the year. I usually pick a verse for the year so it just seemed like the right one for me for 2012.

Even before we left home, for a few weeks now, I have known God was doing something new in me. Leading me in a new direction, challenging me in a new way. I didn't and don't have a complete picture of it right now but, as I wrote in an email to a friend today, I have an odd sense of expectancy humming just below the surface in my life right now. Maybe odd is not the right word. I was thinking about the 18-25 year olds at Passion2012 and their enthusiasm and that they have their whole lives in front of them to serve and give and worship. Then I thought that I am so thankful that even though I am creeping up on the half-century mark (not this year, though - hallelujah!) that God is still doing new things in me, still revealing new things to me, and requiring more things of me. I am honored and privileged and blessed.

To top off the worship through song and music and Scripture and gathering with other believers, there was an opportunity to worship through giving to the cause of freedom. Over $3 million dollars was given over 4 days to end modern-day slavery. It took my breath away.

And that's my recap of Passion2012. I think it's relatively short considering I've typed and deleted so much because I could just go on and on. But, right now I've got to get my new DCB on my computer so I can get it on my running iPod. I know, I know, this Mac will do more than 1 thing at a time but I can't.

And, oh, btw, Happy New Year!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Gift Wrap Central

2011-12-24T10:27:00.000-06:00

It's Christmas Eve and I'm up wrapping all the last-minute gifts. I'm almost done but I'll leave all the paper and bags and ribbons out so the kids can come down later (when they wake up) to wrap a few gifts that they have left. I was sitting at the table, looking at this coffee mug and it reminded me what I enjoy about this day so much. It's a coffee mug from Johnny's grandmother's house. His mom brought it to me along with a few other matching dishes after his grandmother died a few years ago. Here's how I remember the story - her husband of almost 70 years died just a few months earlier. On a Sunday morning she went to church and taught her Sunday School class that she taught for decades. She then went into the sanctuary, fell over in the pew and then met Jesus face to face. She was a precious woman with a lot of spunk and so faithful to her family and to God. I think about her just about every time I drink out of this mug.

What I enjoy so much about today and this season is being with special people - those that I love the most. Yesterday, 2 sets of friends dropped by with unexpected, sweet gifts. The first was a friend with 3 little boys dressed in their super hero costumes. I walked out to the car as they were getting out and reached down to hug them and their mom said, "Give Ms Jeanette a hug." They did but then (this is exactly how it happened!) Johnny came walking out of the house and they RAN and jumped up to hug him. Whatever. Another friend called yesterday that I have not talked to in ages and ages. It was a sweet surprise. Last night I had dinner with all 3 of my kids and my man - really, that doesn't happen too often anymore. Though school & college have been out for a week, Josh had to work all week so he just got home yesterday. We got an early Christmas present - a Kinect - and played games last night. It is really, really fun!

We've made some new traditions since we've been here in Mansfield and today is all about spending time together as a family. These are precious days. As my kids get older, I cherish days like today more and more. We'll go to my parents' house tomorrow evening and we are actually headed to Georgia this year since Johnny's parents were not able to come this year as his dad is still recovering from cancer surgery. I'm excited for a road trip and to see all our Georgia and Kentucky family!

While I've got gift wrap central set up this morning and value the time spent with loved ones more than any gift, the most important part of this Christmas is the Christ - the Savior of the world. I'm thankful for a Savior and a Redeemer. I'm thankful for a holiday set aside to worship the Son of God leaving His heavenly throne because He loved the world so much. He really is the gift that keeps on giving.

O, come let us adore Him! Christ, the Lord!

Merry Christmas!

Jeanette

What Question Would You Ask?

2011-12-13T17:21:00.000-06:00

It's the Christmas season. We are doing all things Christmasy. Today was one of my favorite of our newish Christmas traditions. Today was the staff Christmas brunch, the day that causes me to do some of my favorite things: look at new cookbooks and recipes for hours on end (I even checked out Pinterest which just might become a valuable source of information if I can fully figure out how to use it), cook, and sit around and eat and visit with friends. I did repeat some recipes from last year. One, at the request of our student pastor's wife, was Paula Deen's recipe for cheese grits. These are not your ordinary cheese grits but yummy deliciousness of grits and 2 kinds of cheese and, of course, butter.

There are other holiday things going on but, of course, our Life Group lessons this month are on the reason for the season, the birth of Jesus. I missed the first Sunday of the month because I was out running (see my last post) but this past Sunday covered, in part, the part of the story when Mary and Joseph receive the news that they will parent the Savior of the World. One of the questions that the writer of the literature asked was about whether, once Mary was told by the angel all that she would bear the Son of God, all her questions were answered. Obviously, we have recorded in Scripture that her response was that she was the Lord's bondservant but, just because she moved forward in obedience, I wonder if she had any questions rolling around in her thoughts.

So, I posed this question to my Life Group gals this week: if you could ask God any question and you were guaranteed an audible, verbal answer, what would it be? Please, don't get me wrong. I believe God reveals Himself to us and answers our questions in all sorts of ways but I was just asking out of pure curiosity. Honestly, I was expecting things like, "Why did _______ happen the way it did?" or "Why do children die of starvation when we live in the land of plenty?" (ok, that would be my question) or some question related to something biblical. I didn't get the responses I expected but one in particular has stuck with me for a couple of days: How am I doing?

How am I doing?

That question never even occurred to me prior to my asking for it out-loud to my class but, perhaps, it should. It's a great question to ask of God, I think. Am I on track with Your will for me? Am I living the way I should as Your ambassador? Am I loving enough, giving enough, praying enough, studying enough? Really, how am I doing?

I think it's ok to ask questions - the sort of questions, even, that we may never have the answer to like why? The key is not to let the questions keep us from moving forward and walking in obedience. And, then there's the question about how I'm doing. Definitely, ask that question. Evaluate your life. Pray about it. God may not audibly, verbally answer (then again, He might - He does whatever He wants) but that doesn't mean He won't answer. I think if you are genuinely seeking, He will answer. Be open to the answer and be open to the change that might come with it. Just don't be afraid to ask.

Seriously, what question would you ask?

Serving the King,

Jeanette

My Cup Overflows

2011-12-05T11:34:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was the half-marathon. It rained the ENTIRE time. And it was cold. I could not sleep the night before. Weird, but I was worried about the rain and cold and wondering if I would actually be able to finish.

My brother, Paul, and his family showed up on the race course around mile 7. It was so amazing that they came out in that awful weather and waited on the sidewalk for us. He had his camera wrapped in plastic and took a few pictures, including the one above. He then sprinted up the sidewalk and took more pictures. They stayed with us for a couple of blocks before leaving. It is the best part of the race except...

...finishing. Crossing the finish line was awesome. I slowed way down toward the end. Johnny asked if I had a kick left. I said, "Dude, this is my kick!" It was cold, we were soaked to the bone but it was so exciting to finish then to go in the building to be given a medal, a finisher shirt, and a warm cup of soup. Among those thousands of people we did find some of our friends after the race. It was great to see them and to celebrate the finish. It was also fun to check facebook and see posts about the race and finishing.

We came home and I soaked in a hot, hot bath. It seemed like I couldn't get warm. We had a big night last night - our annual mission fair & banquet - so I knew I couldn't rest. I had a few things to do at home and then we headed up to church around 4:30 to start getting ready for the evening. I had my son, Josh (Student Ministry Assistant), ask some students to come help and I had the mission committee and some other friends come up to help. There were so many people there helping and working. Truly, it blessed me so much. I think the mission fair was good - we had some new organizations & missionaries join us this year so that was great fun! I was sort of afraid that the cold, wet weather would deter some people from coming out but the tables were full for the banquet. Again, a blessing. The students not only helped get ready but they also served the tables. We have the most awesome students on the planet at our church! (Josh oversaw all of it and that helped me so much!)

Then there was the program. Some of our runners came and we presented giant checks for 2 of our fundraising projects - the 2 that are local. Two of our runners spoke about what it meant to them to be running for the causes. Most of us were wearing our medals. Oh yeah, there was no doubt that I was wearing my well-earned medal! We got to celebrate what we did this past year - what God did in us and through us! How blessed we are to be called to join Him on mission. Our friend, Tyler, shared a testimony about how God used him on mission and how he and his wife continue to follow God's purpose for them, in part, as a result of that. He did an amazing job - he made laugh and cry and encouraged us all. Well, maybe I should just speak for me. He encouraged me. Johnny closed my challenging us to be on mission in 2012. It was a great night. Really, even thinking about it now makes me emotional.

God has blessed above and beyond what I could ask or imagine - just like His Word promises. This blog post cannot nearly do justice to how fabulous yesterday was. I didn't win the race or even come close but I finished within what I hoped. I don't know what I thought last night would be like but all the people who prepared in advance for the night (Julie H is the BEST!), came early and helped, who participated in the fair, who spoke, who cooked, who served, who lived on mission last year, who came last night have caused my cup to overflow. Though my muscles are sore today, my heart is full. I feel blessed. I am blessed.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #12

2011-11-28T17:06:00.000-06:00

I'm just a tad bit stressed. That's why I'm super happy that my brother (the brother that runs in 100 mile ultra-marathons) told me over the Thanksgiving holiday that it's too late (less than a week before the race) to gain any fitness but to be careful to avoid injury. So, I got in an easy 2.5 mile run today. As I have noted before, just writing 2.5 easy run makes me happy. Though I have run off and on since I've been in my 30's, because of a foot injury last year I had not been running much. When I started running again just this past April and could not even run 1 mile without walking. To be able to take off and run and run and run and to feel so good is a huge blessing to me.

I picked up my Bible this morning before my run and headed to 1 John 3. Johnny was there yesterday in his sermon. He started a new Christmas series yesterday titled Why? As in, why did Jesus come? Reason #1 (according to the sermon yesterday) is found in 1 John 3:8, "The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil." I loved that he started his sermon yesterday by stating that when we (as believers and followers of Jesus) fully understand why Jesus came we will live more missionally." Like when we go to a great restaurant and we can't wait to tell our friends about it. Or we eat a great cereal and we just want to tell everyone else what a great cereal it is. (you really just had to be there yesterday to fully appreciate that last statement)

I was already on the edge of my seat by the time we got to the sermon yesterday. Wendy sang Beautiful and part of the lyrics contain these words, "Beautiful, I'm lost for more to say." Sometimes it's like that - God is so great that He is beyond words, words are not enough to praise Him or describe Him.

And, that's it. That's why we live missionally and advance the Gospel. So that He will be known. So that others will know what it's like to serve and worship the God who is beyond description. Yes, we want to feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, a pair of shoes to bare feet, a house and a family to those that don't know what it's like to live with either...

But, ultimately, the greatest thing we can give is Jesus.

I didn't make it to 1 John 3 this morning. I got stuck on one of my all-time favorite verses. It's Hebrews 12:1-2 --

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (NASB)

The immediate race before me is the White Rock half-marathon. My goal is to finish. No matter how slow or how fast (relatively speaking, of course) I run, it will be a PR. The race before me is prepping for the mission banquet on Sunday evening. Yeah, the same day as the other race, the half-marathon. (maybe I need to check into renting a wheelchair...oh, just kidding!) The race is the life that God has for me. I am easily distracted at times. I'm thankful for the reminder to keep my eyes fixed, focused on Jesus. He's beautiful to me.

Serving the King and running with purpose,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #11

2011-11-18T11:15:00.000-06:00

Run length - 2 miles
Song that got me home - O Praise Him, David Crowder Band

I set out this morning for a quick 2 mile run with my dog. My wacky dog and some of my frustrations on taking her out have been well documented on this blog in the past. Today sent me over the edge but more on that later. BTW, I planned a short run today because it is my plan to run 10 miles tomorrow. The race is little more than 2 weeks away.

I left my house this morning thinking I can't wait until the half-marathon is over. And, I was actually thinking that I am looking forward to running a 10k the last weekend in February. Over the last few months, as I've been training for the half, I have renewed my love of running is some ways. Anticipating the 13.1 miles has taken some of the fun out of it. There are some days I would just like to run 2 miles and not worry that I'm not getting enough miles in for the week. There are some days I would just like to walk my dog around the block but I know I must run. That leads me to thoughts like I can't wait for this to be over...

I'm guilty of that in the rest of my life as well, at times. I'm looking to the future, trying to get past something so I can get on to the next. When I'm like that I'm missing the joy of today or what God wants to accomplish in me and through me in the present. James, the half-brother of our Savior, wrote that we are merely a vapor that is here for a little while and then gone. (James 4:14) Life is way to short and flies by at lightning speed too much to live waiting to get to tomorrow or some other day in the future.

As a side note, I want to inform you that I am writing this without the use of one of my thumbs. Back to the dog story - if you have read my posts about my dog before you know she can freak out a little by the slightest thing. It's super windy today and we turned around at the half-way point to head back - straight into a cold wind and uphill. She was running ahead and I - totally doing what the dog trainer told me - was going to pull back on the leash and have her sit so she could remember who's boss. (We have a little trouble with that on occasion) My fingers got caught up in the leash and I pulled my thumbnail back - I mean, it got bent back halfway down. Then I was running into a cold wind, uphill, with a misbehaving dog, with a thumb throbbing in pain and thinking only this thought - would I rather get blood on my shirt or on my pants. It's an old shirt that I don't really like too much anymore but I did have on my favorite running pants. And, now I had to hold the leash in my right hand and that totally threw me off because I always run with the leash and the dog on my left.

Just another reason I am so thankful for the David Crowder Band and am going to cry hysterically after (or maybe during) "The Last Show" at Passion this year is the song that got me home today. It's been one of my favorite songs for years. I'm glad it came up on my iPod when it did. I like it on the music video when the music stops and all you hear is the guy on the street singing. You have to see the video. Look it up on youtube. I was going to link it for you but I'm in too much pain.

My thumb may be broken (not)...

O Praise Him, all this for the King!

Jeanette

Rescue, Restore, Refine Revisited

2011-11-10T11:23:00.000-06:00

I have the awesome privilege of going to see an old friend of mine this weekend and speaking at an event for her women's ministry. I'm super excited. She happens to live down near the Hill Country of Texas where they experienced some devastating fires a few months ago. When my friend and I were discussing possible topics for her event I suggested the title/topic we used for our Fusion study in January of this year. She added a phrase so the title for this event is Through the Fire: Rescue, Restore, Refine. Of course, fire goes exactly with refine. In the book of Malachi, it is said that God will appear as a refiner's fire and fullers' soap. In the note on that verse in the Ryrie Study Bible, the author relates the refiner's fire to purification and the fullers' soap to cleansing.

My outline for the event has been in my desk drawer for a couple of weeks. I have thought and prayed about it so much while I've been out there running and running. I pulled it out today (since the event is, afterall, in 2 days) to pray and re-write and finalize. The entire theme of the original study, which was on the book of Judges, came out of a time when I did a word study on rescue. Although, when I did my original word study via one of my favorite online resources, the word rescue is not used (in the NASB) in the book of Judges it so is the theme, in many ways, of that book. Today I was pondering that and decided to try the word rescue in another translation. So, I went to my online resource, typed it in and, sure enough, there it was in my focal passage for this weekend, Judges 6:14 - Then the LORD turned to him and said, "Go with the strength you have and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!". The NASB uses the word deliver and the KJV uses the word save.

I hope you are still reading because I'm not to the best part yet...

So, I got out my Old Testament word study book and looked up the word from the original language. It's Yasha. Here's what it means, "To be delivered, saved; to get help; to deliver; give victory...It is noteworthy that the personal name of our Savior, Jesus, is derived from this root." (Lexical Aids, 2324) The definition goes on to report that the original meaning would have been physical deliverance, much like what was needed in the case of the Hebrews in Judges 6. The chosen people of God were being oppressed by the Midianites and they cried out to God for help. He chose Gideon to be the one to lead them out of that place of bondage. Back to the definition from the lexical aids, "Later, 'save' developed a theological meaning. God is concerned about our physical well-being, our emotional status, and the salvation of our souls. God has the ability to save us from anything which would harm us. Salvation is God's love in action."

Salvation is God's love in action - I'm about to tweet that and make it my fb status.

What a beautiful message. I hope to communicate it clearly this weekend but I've already been blessed this morning. For some reason, that just washed over me in such a fresh way and I'm thankful for it.

Serving the King, the Rescuer,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #10

2011-11-07T16:43:00.000-06:00

Run length - an embarrassing 2 1/4 miles. The only thing worse than running only 2 and one quarter miles today is that it beats the distance I ran all of last week.
Verse for the day - so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow... and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:10-11

The half-marathon is only 4 weeks from yesterday and I've pretty much taken the last 2 weeks off with the exception of our 8 mile run on Saturday before last. Yikes! I'm so pumped about our fundraising, though. We even have some people not associated with our church who are running with us & joining our cause! Since yesterday was World Orphan Day and we had (really, this is the coolest thing!) an adopted child dedication (It was kind of like a typical baby dedication that we might do at our church but it was for families whose kids that were not adopted as babies) we decided to designate all our iRun donations of the day for our adoption & foster care ministry. It was our 2nd biggest day so far.

I was reading an article today on anthropology from the Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary. (yes, I do enjoy reading the dictionary - last night in our missions class a man was giving a report about being in prison over the weekend with Bill Glass Champions for Life. He mentioned an inmate in the corner reading the dictionary and all I could think was, what's wrong with that?) Humans were created in the likeness and image of God for His own glory. Nothing we can do can earn or cause us to deserve redemption - it's all about accepting the free gift offered. Here's an excerpt from the article:

"Redeemed men and women will, by the blood of Christ, give glory to His name and enjoy Him forever, thus fulfilling their original purpose."

So, when I run I enjoy creation because one of my favorite attributes or perfections of God is that of Creator. I enjoy creation because I am in awe of it and of Him. Even in Texas we are starting to have leaves turning fall colors. When I run I talk to God about the things that are weighing on my heart or the activities I have coming up or about my husband and kids and ministry. When I run I am thankful for health and the ability to buy snazzy new running shoes and the freedom to do so. When I run I worship. When I run I pray for those that have never heard the name of Jesus and the opportunity to share that Great Name with those that simply do not know.

I'm glad to be back running today. Tomorrow I plan to run 4. I'm actually looking forward to it. I'll let you know how it goes.

Serving the King
and running with purpose,

Jeanette

What's been going on?

2011-10-27T20:57:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting on the couch with my man watching game 6 of the World Series. Our Texas Rangers are up 3 games to 2. They could win the series tonight. I, obviously, hope they do. The series has been super exciting. Monday night I had a hard time enjoying the Rangers getting a win in game 5 because I was sick. Johnny had a stomach bug over the weekend and I was super careful - washing my hands, washing everything he touched, spraying Lysol all over - and I still got sick. It was truly awful, that's for sure! And, between the 2 of us being sick, missing sleep and such, I have not been running for a week. Since the half-marathon is only about 5 weeks away now I can't afford to take a week off. I'll be back out there tomorrow and our plan is to run 8 on Saturday.

Today we went to the Embrace Equipping Conference. It was a mission conference. We are desperately praying about a new part of our mission strategy and went to get some info today. For me, it was confirmation to what I think God has already been saying to Johnny and me. I am so excited. It's something totally unlike our other mission endeavors and in a different part of the world.

Our first classes in the new computer lab, my big project for the Fall, are less than a week away. After all we've done over the last months it's finally almost time to actually get to work. My prayer is that we will absolutely provide some job skills but also, and mainly, that we will have a chance to share Jesus!

That's what's up with me. Nothing exciting at all. I didn't even get to go to a baseball game...

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #9

2011-10-17T11:56:00.001-05:00

Run length - 2 1/2
Song that got me home - My Brightness, Charlie Hall
Verse of the morning - you have stayed long enough (in part) from Deuteronomy 1:6-7

It was already hot at 10:45 am in the middle of October. And, super windy. Going out was great but the wind was discouraging on the way back. I only ran a total of 6 miles last week so I'm off my training and have got to get back this week.

I'm pondering something Johnny talked about last night at church & thought about it out on my run today. His text was from Acts 12, the account of Peter rescued from jail by an angel. A couple of points that stuck with me were: 1) sometimes we pray and because God doesn't answer the way we have envisioned it we miss the answer; 2) if I pray and God gives me an answer that's not what I envisioned can I be ok with that? Sometimes I pray and pray about the same things but, really, in my heart, I already know the answer. What it comes down to is do I believe that He's good and faithful and just if my hopes, dreams, life don't turn out like I planned?

Yeah, I can type with absolute certainty that I believe He is. Not one doubt.

That's where I am today. Do I struggle to hang onto that on some days? Sure. He has proven Himself (not that He has to) over and over again in my life. With whatever breath He has yet to give me, with days and energy and resources, I hope I will live worthy of what He has entrusted to me. To His great glory alone.

Running with purpose &
serving the King,

Jeanette

School Holiday

2011-10-10T21:18:00.000-05:00

The college kids got an entire week off last week - Fall Break - but the high schooler got today off. He came home from a friend's house, where he spent the night, with 2 of his buddies sometime in the early afternoon. He asked me to take him to get a new drum head (which we did) and to have a Dallas Stars watching party tonight. The game started at 5:00 but they didn't start watching it until almost 7:00 pm because our Texas Rangers are playing in the ALCS. The game went into extra innings and was won by a walk-off grand slam by Nelson Cruz. It was so exciting. They are now 2 up in the series. The Stars are now in OT. (I actually already saw on twitter which team won the game but these guys are all excited about the shoot-out so there's no way I'm telling them that the Stars actually won the game!) Jacob had 6 friends over tonight and it is so great to have boys yelling and cheering! Some days it has been way too quiet around here. (The all just yelled "yes" in their manly voices so the game is finally over! It was also exciting.)

I didn't go running today. I needed to buy groceries so I decided to head over to the brand new Kroger that just opened near our house. It's a Kroger Marketplace so it has lots more stuff than just groceries. First of all, the parking lot was packed and I had a hard time finding a parking space. I nearly had a panic attack when I walked in the door because, first of all, there was a girl yelling about free samples of fresh-squeezed orange juice and pineapple. Secondly, the store is not in the same lay-out as my old Kroger. I like routine and sameness. I couldn't find anything. And THEN the checker made me give her my Kroger card before I finished unloading my cart. At the old Kroger they will let you give the card when you finish instead of making you stop. Then, there wasn't anyone sacking my groceries until almost the end. And, then (last one) the checker - instead of helping to finish putting the groceries into my reusable grocery sacks like they do at the old Kroger - started checking out the guy behind me. She let his groceries come down the conveyor right into my unsacked groceries. Look, I was stressed and trying to be kind but come on... I was so happy to be out of there. Unfortunately, the boys wanted to get something this afternoon and I ended up making a second trip to the new Kroger. Twice in one day. yikes - hope to not be back til next week!

I don't mean to complain about nonsensical things. I am truly happy and so thankful that I have the ability to drive down the street in my fun little car and that I have money to buy groceries. I am thankful for coupons and deals at the new store. (A fella even game me a coupon for a free bag of coffee!) I am thankful for healthy kids and friends and time to spend doing unimportant things like watching sporting events when such serious things are going on in the world. I am thankful (oh, get this one) that I have a wonderful tile floor in my kitchen and hot, running water in my house with which to clean it. Even if I did have to get down on my hands and knees today to clean parts of it, I'm glad to have it. I'm super thankful for my man - the one that I love to spend time with more than anyone else - and being able to share our lives together. I'm thankful for a day off school and a son who still asks me to do stuff for him - like cooking special hockey-watching food for him and his friends.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #8

2011-10-03T15:25:00.000-05:00

Run length - 3 miles
Verse of the morning - You see that faith was active together with his works, and by works, faith is perfected. James 2:22

I read an article on the internet this morning that started with this line: you can't do everything but you can do something. It was on a mission website. I'm just one person. What can I do?

I laced up my awesome running shoes this morning wondering if I should go out for a run. Johnny says I can't afford to take time off for an injury. He's right. Race day is 2 months and 1 day from today. I have a sore leg and can't quite figure out if I should just run through the soreness or decrease my runs until it's better. I won't stop, though. Here's why - in the first day of offering the iLive shirts for a donation to our iRun mission causes, we already raised over the amount it costs to dig a well in India. That was our first goal and we did it in the first day! (Thank you, my FBCM people, for your amazing generosity!) Everything else we raise will go to our other causes.

It's estimated that 6,000 children die in India everyday from issues related to unsafe drinking water. I can't provide clean water for everyone in India. However, in some remote village somewhere in India our partner organization, AIM, will dig a well and provide water for the thirsty. I run for clean water in India.

The drought in the Horn of Africa is causes food prices to soar and has weakened the livestock. As a result, there is increased malnutrition, hunger and famine. Millions and millions of people are at risk. I can't feed everyone who is starving in the Horn of Africa but I can feed some. I run for the food crisis in the Horn of Africa.

Almost 2 years after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, it is estimated that there are over 600,000 people still living in displacement camps. Now, there is a serious outbreak of cholera. I can't build a home for every person living in a tent in Haiti, but I can help someone. I run for the Haiti Rebuild Project.

And, finally, I read recently that there are 143 million fatherless and orphaned children in the world. They need a home and a family and love and security. I run so some little boy or some little girl can know what home is and what it means to say mommmy and daddy.

I'm just one person. I've joined a group of runners. Together, we are trying to make a difference. We are lacing up our running shoes and we are getting out there, putting one foot in front of the other to make a difference. That's what we're doing. How about you?

Serving the King
and running with purpose,

Jeanette

I Live and the Computer Lab

2011-09-29T13:28:00.000-05:00

I'm not posting my meditations on running today because I totally abandoned my run today at 2.5 miles. I had to work this morning so I thought I'd go running at lunchtime. If one would expect that one could go on a pleasant run on the very last week of September around lunchtime, well, that person would be WRONG if that person lives in Texas this particular year. After running from Rose Park to McKnight Park and back, I got halfway to Town Park and totally gave up. I turned around and ran back to Rose Park then even walked across the yard back to my car instead of going on the path. It was 97 degrees outside by the time I got back to my car.

But, I'm not giving up on running because I am running with a purpose, after all. Our church run group is raising money for some specific mission purposes. We were able to purchase some shirts that look almost like our run shirts. Instead of iRun with Purpose they have iLive with Purpose. With a donation of $20 or more to our causes donors can have a shirt. I've put a photo below - sorry it's sideways, you KNOW I am horrible with computers - it's the front & the back of the shirts.

So, I know your next question is where can I get my iLive shirt? So glad you asked! (That sounds like something our pastor would say, doesn't it?) Starting this coming Sunday, you can stop by our brand new Computer Lab/Mission Room to make your donation and get your shirt. If you didn't know we had such a place in our church then I'm so glad to let you know that we do! If you read the Discovery Brochure on Sundays then you know we've been asking for you to donate computers. We finally have all the computers we need (for now) and work is being done to get them ready so we can start using the computer lab for its intended purpose: to provide job skills and training classes for the under- and unemployed. We all know it's a tough economy but there are employers looking for good employees. We just want to help train some good potential employees so some folks can better provide for their families.

I'll be in the Computer Lab this Sunday immediately following morning worship. Please stop by... and bring your checkbook! If you are interested in either taking classes or helping with training then I'd love to talk to you about that as well.

See you Sunday!

Serving the King

and running with purpose,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #7

2011-09-27T13:16:00.000-05:00

Run length - 2 1/2ish
Song that got me home - Came to My Rescue, Hillsong
Verse of the morning - The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9

Sometimes how themes go together in my life cracks me up. Take today, for instance. I decided to shake my running plan up today by doing what my running book calls fartlek. (Will you wonder if I'm thinking like a junior high boy if I suggest you say that word out loud?) According to the book, the word is Swedish for "speed play" and it's simply mixing up easy running and running fast. Actually, you are to pick an object in the distance and run to it fast and then return back to an easy pace and do that repeatedly. My plan was to do my fast running in quarters. However, because I was giving all I had, the distance was closer to a tenth. Sad, I know. And I was having some foot pain this morning - which gives me a little anxiety because I had to give up running last year because of those darned feet. Today was not the first time my plan didn't turn out the way I had hoped.

This season of my life is sort of like that. Don't get me wrong, I'm in a really good place. I'm not complaining, it's just that this particular season is not what I anticipated. It isn't my plan or how I would have written the script. Would you at all agree that sometimes our plans don't equal the direction God has for us? How do you deal with those times? Last night after Johnny had been at Fish, Football, & Freebies, and the game was over (go, Cowboys!) I made a comment to Johnny about this particular subject. I was super tired, it was late, and, frankly, I didn't like what he had to say so I abruptly ended the conversation. That was uncool, I know, especially because Johnny is a fixer. All in all, I want God to direct my steps even when they don't lead where I think they should be going. And, in the process, I truly want to know Him more. I want that object in the distance to be the one that He put there for me - whether I'm going fast or slow (or painfully slow like it seems some things to).

All I can add is be flexible and be open to the direction God is leading your steps.

Serving the King
and running with purpose,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #6

2011-09-24T11:30:00.000-05:00

Run length - 7 miles
Song that got me home - Say, Say Charlie Hall Band
Verse of the morning - Give thanks to the Lord for He is (so) good; His love endures forever. Psalm 118:1

I don't have much to write about today's run except... I made it! And, as a reward, we stopped to get a latte (skinny latte, at that!) on the way home. Then, Johnny turned the hot tub on and, oh, my legs and feet were so thankful! Johnny and I took a little over 3 minutes off our 6 mile time and I felt good until the end. We started out with 3 friends. We didn't all stay together but it felt good knowing they were out on the course. The weather was absolute perfection (thank You, Creator of heaven and earth!) and it was a great morning.

Johnny and I talked a little when we passed the 6 mile mark. We don't talk too much because, well, we need to breath. We talked about how we cannot think about almost being finished because it makes us tired. I have to purposefully think about other things and not think about running. I often think about projects I have going on or mentally make lists of things I need to do. I often pray or sing out loud. I did sing a tiny bit for Julie Brooks today but usually only do that after I make sure no one else is around. Today, I thought about my Life Group girls and our lesson for tomorrow for at least a mile.

I got up for a second and stepped on a dead gecko in my house. I'm feeling kinda freaked out about that so I'm going to end this post here.

Serving the King and
running with purpose,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #5

2011-09-22T11:45:00.001-05:00

Song that got me home - Chainbreaker, Charlie Hall Band
Run length - 2 miles
Verse of the morning - I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; but now my eye sees You. Job 42:5

I planned an easy 2 mile run today because I ran 4.5 Monday & 3.1 Tuesday and, of course, Wednesday is stretch & strength day. Johnny and I plan to run 7 on Saturday so I'm running easy today and tomorrow so I'll feel my best for the long run. Since it was 2 miles I decided to take Chicken Little (aka Jadee, my Boxer/Pit Bull mix mutt - henceforth in this post referred to simply as CL) with me. If you've read any of my other posts on running then you will already know CL is not good for one step beyond 2 miles. Our city is putting traffic lights at an intersection near our house that happens to be on my run route. Some fellas were out working with some machinery this morning and my precious CL about flipped out. She kept looking back after we were long past the intersection. She was just about to calm down when we got to the creek bridge which has a short, concrete wall separating the sidewalk from the street. A couple of friends (the Dean gals) stopped briefly in their car for a little encouragement. My CL kept trying to jump up and see who was on the other side of wall. Then, as is her habit, she got in the pool when we got home. Even though it hasn't been too cold outside yet, the pool water is already super cold. She doesn't care. When I came in the house she snuck in. When I called her to go back outside, she ran immediately to the laundry room. Should I be upset that she disobeyed and didn't go back outside or should I be impressed that she went to the laundry room - which, BTW, is the place where she went all summer to get dried off after being in the pool? She is so loyal even though she's really just a big fraidy cat. She tried to sit in my lap again this morning when I was sitting at my desk working. She's just too big. And now I've referred to her both as a chicken and a cat when she is clearly a dog. Even with her faults, CL is just about the best dog ever.

So much for spiritual reflections on running - some days are just meant for silliness, I suppose.

Running with purpose and
serving the King,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #4

2011-09-15T14:55:00.000-05:00

Run length - 3.55
Song that got me home - We Will Dance, Travis Cottrell
Verse of the morning - Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; and confirm for us the work of our hands; yes, confirm the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17

I am a creature of habit, sometimes in weird ways. I have certain routine things that I do and I don't like to deviate from those things, particularly when it comes to running. (If you are reading this, Johnny Dickerson, I tried really hard not to stop and re-tie my shoes. I couldn't do it. And, once one shoe has been re-tied, the other must be re-tied as well. Always the right first and the left second.) Today, for instance, I had to go by the Post Office and drop something off. One of the parks I run by is near the Post Office. But, that's not the one I usually park by so, instead of parking there I drove to my regular park parking lot so as not to mess up my routine.

The great thing about working at home is working in one's pajammies, like I did this morning. I have a couple of heavy things going on and was sidetracked this morning but finally had to get out the door because I had some things to talk over with God. Like the above verse, I am asking for His favor and confirmation on the projects I have going right now. I love to run and pray. It seems like a great way to leave distractions behind and, for me, to have great times of worship and conversation. I also have my best ideas while I'm out running. I had a great run today and even went beyond my planned 3 miles. It helped that the temp outside was 74 degrees when I got out of the car at 11:05 am!

A few years ago I was working on my master's degree and, because it was in Christian Education, I had to have a required course in Spiritual Formation. For the class, one of the texts was a book titled DiscipleShape, Twelve Weeks to Spiritual Fitness by Dan R. Crawford. Basically, the author compared growing spiritually to physical fitness in parts of the book. One chapter is titled, "Walking" followed by the chapter titled "Running." Check out an excerpt from the book below:

Physical fitness experts assure us that forward motion connects the mind, body, and spirit, which makes us feel whole...Physiologists tell us if we walk long enough we'll shift into our right brain, opening up an unlimited supply of creative solutions to problems and inspirational thoughts...The mind seems to function more clearly when the physical juices are flowing. In other words, movement motivates and facilitates prayer. (p 62)

So, we know there are all kinds of physical health benefits to walking and running. There are also emotional and spiritual. So, get out there and get moving. Put your favorite worship music on your iPod and spend some time with Jesus. It works for me - I hope it will for you as well.

Serving the King
and Running with Purpose,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #3

2011-09-13T09:58:00.000-05:00

Run length - 2 miles
Song that got me home - The Word of God Has Spoken, Travis Cottrell
Verse of the morning - I bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1

The added bonus (besides, of course, Beth Moore) of the simulcast this past weekend was the worship led by Travis Cottrell. Amazing. He sang the above song. It was the first time I ever heard it. I went right out to the book table and purchased a copy of his new cd and put it on my iPod Saturday evening. I love the message of the song so much. The lesson in our Life Group this past Sunday was about spiritual growth. I told my ladies that there is no spiritual growth outside of Bible study. The Bible is inspired (2 Timothy 3:16) which literally means "breathed out by God." Just like He breathed the literal breath of life into Adam at his formation (Genesis 2:7), God's Word breathes life into us spiritually. The Holy Scriptures are the breath of life.

The chorus of the song has this line, "we are running to salvation." For me, it's always good to have the word run or running in any song while while my feet are hitting the pavement. Particularly today. My dog freaked out on me a little bit. She's usually good for 2 miles, though not one step further. I was on my regular 2 mile route in my neighborhood when a bicycle came up behind us. I was thankful to my dog, Jadee, for letting me know he was coming because I may have had the music up too loud. It was great because I was able to get off the sidewalk & out of the biker's way. It was bad because after he passed Jadee decided it was time to go home. She pulled in the opposite direction and would not go further. I took the long way home, though, so I still got my 2 miles in.

Just like it is taking me quite a bit of effort to train for this half-marthon, it takes effort on my part to grow spiritually. Salvation is offered freely but growth happens when I open God's written Word and pour into it and let it pour into me. Having the discipline to get out there and run even when I'm not feeling like it is absolutely necessary for my training. Maybe there are days when I don't want to take the time to run... or, to read my Bible. The only way I'm moving forward is to just do it.

The Word of God has spoken to me this morning. Has it spoken to you?

Serving the King
and running with purpose,

Jeanette

A Day Without Water

2011-09-08T13:53:00.000-05:00

About this time last year I was getting ready to go on a short-term mission trip up into the Andes Mountains of Peru. I had been warned that we would be staying in primitive conditions and I packed my sleeping bag and air mattress. My room in the mountains ended up being a storage room with one little light bulb and nothing else electric. We had one regular toilet for all of us in a room with a dirt floor and without a door. There was one faucet that had freezing cold water coming out of it that we could boil and use to wash dishes. All the other water we used during our time up in the mountains was water we took up with us in huge containers. We cleaned our hands and our bodies with wipes (you know, like baby wipes) and we brushed our teeth with our bottled water, rinsing and spitting over a woodpile outside.

I have been to some developing countries before. I've been to some rural villages where, when you've gotta go, the bathroom facilities are little more than a whole in the ground. In fact, I've done that in at least 4 other countries. And, we're campers. Yes, we do have a travel trailer now but we used to be tent campers and we've roughed it a time or two. Going to the mountains in Peru and staying in a village was not the hardest thing I've ever done. But, I will admit, I was thrilled and thankful when we stopped at a hotel on the way down and I got to take a real shower, wash my hair for the first time in days, and even turn on water and wash my hands.

I know we take water for granted here in the United States. Just since I've been home from running this morning I've flushed my toilet, washed my hands more than once, gotten ice and water from my refrigerator, washed an apple, and started my washing machine. But, I've been thinking a lot about water lately. Maybe it's because we are in a drought here in Texas. Now we can only water our yards twice a week. I know in the northeast they are experiencing flooding and we would just like to have some rain. We are not to the point of desperation yet even though the lake is down and the creeks are dried up. We don't yet know what's really like to be without water.

Here's a few water facts I found on WorldVision.org and Compassion.com:

*884 million people worldwide lack access to safe water.
*Water-related diseases are the 2nd biggest killer of children worldwide. (I thought #1 would be hunger-related issues but it's not - it's acute respiratory infections, like TB)
*90% of water-related diseases have to do with unsafe water, sanitation, & hygiene. Most of the victims are children in developing countries.
*An average person in a developing country uses a little more than 2.5 gallons of water per day for drinking, washing, and cooking. An average person in the developed world uses 13 gallons per day only for toilet flushing.

I looked at the toilets in my house. They use 1.6 gallons of water per flush. That means, in just 2 flushes per day we have used more water than someone, somewhere in the world. And, I didn't have to hike for miles with containers strapped to my body to bring that water back to my house, like some women do on a daily basis. I didn't worry if the water I drank carried diseases that would cause me to very sick or dehydrated. It's filtered water.

I was thinking about a campaign I would call A Day Without Water. You know, like the one a shoe company does on a day when participants are to go without wearing shoes. I was thinking we could all go out to the street and turn the water off to our houses. We could estimate the amount of water we would save that day and the cost of that water and then we could all send that money to an organization that helps provide clean, safe water to those who do not readily have access. Quite frankly, can I just be honest, I am unwilling to do it. I like having electricity - being warm in the winter & cool in the summer inside my house, being able to see when it gets dark outside and using my appliances. I like having running water on demand.

What, then, is my responsibility? One thing our running group, iRun with Purpose, is doing is raising money to dig a well in India. It's a start. Maybe we can't provide clean water for all 884 million people desperate for it but for a village in India I hope it will make a difference.

Running with purpose & serving the King,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #2

2011-09-06T11:27:00.000-05:00

Run length - easy 2 miles
Song that got me home - Always, Kristian Stanfield
Verse of the morning - I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, your King. Isaiah 43:15

Normally, after long run day is rest day. But, since my schedule is off this week, I went for an easy 2 mile run. I have a route in my neighborhood and I like to take my dog out once or twice a week. She's great for 2 miles but if I try to go past that she rebels. I can remember not too long ago that I couldn't even run 1 mile, much less 2, so I'm not taking it for granted that it was an easy 2 mile run.

My verse for the morning has special significance for me for a couple of reasons. One of those reasons is that, usually, my favorite attribute, characteristic, or perfection (as Charles Ryrie calls it) of God is Creator. I absolutely enjoy His creation. That's one reason I run. I cancelled my gym membership because I prefer to be outside. I don't enjoy running on a treadmill at all. I like to look around and notice the different colors of green - or, right now, all the shades of yellow as the grass and leaves are dying from the summer heat and lack of rain. I enjoy noticing the different shapes of leaves or seeing different types of birds and insects. I am amazed at the creativeness it took to creator so many different things.

I like to think about creation worshipping the Creator. Today, the grasshoppers on one particular part of my route were jumping out in front of me. The dragonflies were flapping their wings. Ok, before you think I'm wacky, check out this verse - "For you will go out with joy and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands," Isaiah 55:12. I remember so clearly the first time I noticed the trees clapping. We were in Colorado driving up in the mountains with the windows down, enjoying the cool mountain air. The sides of the road were lined with Aspens and, as the breeze was blowing, it looked just like the leaves were clapping.

I would love for you to see Isaiah 55:12 in context. Would you look it up but start reading in about...well, why not read the entire chapter. It's only 13 verses long. My Bible titles the chapter The invitation of salvation and it's about God's promises. I hope you'll read it and be blessed by it today!

iRun with Purpose,

Jeanette

Meditations on Running, entry #1

2011-09-05T14:00:00.000-05:00

Today's run length - 6 miles

Song that got me home - Forever Reign, Hillsong

Verse of the morning - Psalm 90:14 O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.

I think we had 68 days over 100 degrees this summer in North Texas. Today the high is supposed to be in the 80's. It was in the high-70's when we started on our run at 10:30 this morning. It's the first day it has felt cool in weeks and weeks. It's windy but feels really nice out.

It was only our 2nd time to run 6 miles and we took 6 minutes off our time. I am encouraged and think the training for the 1/2 marathon is going fairly good. I am doing a self-modified training based on Hal Higdon's novice training plan for the half marathon. Our long day is normally Saturday but we ran it today because this coming Saturday is Beth Moore Simulcast. For real runners, 6 miles may not be a long run. I guess I really never ran much until I was in my 30's. In fact, I never played sports (except intermurals in college) and am not athletic in any way. Now that I am way past 30, I feel excited to be entered in the White Rock. I feel privileged to be able to run for a cause. Over the next few weeks I hope to jot down my thoughts on running, what God is doing in me, and the 4 causes we are raising funds for as we run.

iRun with Purpose,

Jeanette

2nd week - check

2011-09-03T22:06:00.000-05:00

We've made it through the first 2 weeks of school. We are getting into (sort of) a routine and getting used to one kid at home. It's Labor Day weekend, though, and the college girl just walked in the door. She was at a Young Life retreat and it was here in town. She said she can't wait to sleep in her own bed. Yeah, it's way better than the top bunk at that dorm room! The only-child-left-at-home is out with some buddies but called a bit ago and said he would be home later, with 3 buddies in tow. Some things change, some things remain the same.

We've been getting into the back-to-school groove by watching some college football this weekend. The Baylor Bears had a nail-biter this weekend and managed a win over the #14 nationally ranked TCU Horned Frogs. It was a great game and kept us watching until the very end. Sic'em Bears!

We also had my parents & my younger brother and his family over today for a pre-Labor Day/dad's birthday celebration. I found out about a new store in Arlington called Nothing Bundt Cake that sells (you guessed it) all sorts of bundt cakes. I stopped by with Jacob on Thursday after we had to go by the Sprint store and purchased a couple of mini-cakes. They were yummy so I went back by on Friday (the girl working recognized me and asked, "Weren't you here yesterday?" guilty!) and bought some more for the family get-together. Actually, I bought 11 more because with the purchase of 11 you get one free. I couldn't resist free. And, did I mention the cake is really yummy? Needless to say, we will be eating cake for the rest of the weekend. Johnny and I are planning a long run for Monday but I will try not to eat too much cake anyway.

Finally, I think today was the last of the triple-digit days. Man, I was growing weary of them. In fact, the high for Monday may be only in the high 80's so it might start cooling off a bit and start to feel like back-to-school.

Hoping you have a marvelous Labor Day!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Acting Like It

2011-08-30T11:24:00.000-05:00

The following was one of Ed Stetzer's tweets this morning - "When a disciple understands the gospel and lives in light of it he/she will naturally be on mission." It was a short little excerpt from his blog. (I would put a link right here but I'm on my new Mac and I'm not sure how to get to his blog on this computer. You can google him to find it.) When we truly know (that experiential know, not just head knowledge) what the mission of God is, it should make a difference in the way we live. The New Testament writer James penned it like this, "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves," (James 1:22)

Being on mission does not necessarily mean you are going on a mission trip. I think that's part of it and I encourage people all the time to go on mission trips. They can be live changing. It was for me. Being on a mission trip and living with missionaries for a week taught me a lot about what it means to live on mission.

So, what does that mean to us to live on mission on a day-to-day basis? I think it starts by finding out the heart of God. How does God feel about the lost, the hurting, the sick, the poor and defenseless? We also have to become more sensitive to the needs around us. I don't know about you, but sometimes I live like I have blinders on. I am so focused on what is going on in my family, taking care of my responsibilities, etc., that I am truly unaware of potential needs all around me. Once we know the heart of God and we observe needs around us, then we must put our faith into action. We have to act like what we say we believe. If we are truly disciples, then it is our obligation to live in light of God's mission on earth and to make His mission our mission.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Longing For The Day

2011-08-25T20:51:00.000-05:00

Did you ever read the children's book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day? That may not be the exact title but that's pretty close. It's a story about a little guy named Alexander who was just really having a bad day. All sorts of rotten stuff happens to the poor kid and he mentions wanting to escape to Australia. At the end of the book, he says something like, "Some days are like that, even in Australia." We must've read that story dozens of times when our kids were smaller. That last little bit became a catch-phrase around our house. Some days are just rotten, no matter who you are or where you live.

Today has been such a day. Johnny left before dawn to catch a plane to go see his dad who is still recovering from cancer surgery in Boston. It's been a very difficult recovery. When I got up, there was a dead bird in the pool. Thankfully, Jacob was still home and was able to get the bird out for me. Other than that, I'm having a decent day. Jacob helped me clean the kitchen tonight without being asked! But this morning I got a text from a friend who is struggling. Another friend is dealing with some serious issues with one of her kids. One is in the hospital, one just lost her sister, another is recovering from a serious illness and has had some setbacks. My heart is heavy over the sorrow, frustration, stress, weakness, and suffering all around me.

Johnny gave me a new iPod for my birthday back in June for my car. (I know it seems like I'm changing gears but hang in with me for a minute.) I finally, today, sat down and put some music on it. (I KNOW, 2 1/2 months later - the summer was just like that.) I had an iTunes card so I decided to purchase some new music. Last night, at Rally, the band played a Hillsong United song that I've never heard titled You Hold Me Now. I decided to get it today along with Matt Redman's new album. Part of the lyrics of the song are this, "No weeping, no hurt or pain, no suffering, You hold me now, You hold me now. No darkness, no sick or lame, no hiding, You hold me now, You hold me now."

Do you ever just long for that day? That's where I am today. When John received the Revelation he recorded this,

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." Revelation 21:1-4, NASB

No longer any separation - from God or our loved ones that were believers that have gone on before us. No more sorrow or sickness or hunger or hurt... Only rejoicing forever dwelling in the presence of God.

In the meantime, I live in the reality that life just stinks sometimes - for me and those I love. The promise of what is ahead strengthens me on those tough days. After all, some days are just like that... even in Australia.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Move-In Day

2011-08-17T08:09:00.000-05:00

I know I am repeatedly posting about college move-in day but it's my life and today's the day. (Well, we moved Josh into his new townhome on Saturday so it's move-in day for the college freshman) Johnny asked me how I was doing earlier this morning and I didn't get a little teary, I sobbed. The kind that takes your breath away. I am going to miss Jessica so much. I'm going to miss the way she comes in and talks to me about all sorts of things - tv shows that she finds funny, what's going on in her day, what's going on in the world, spiritual things, how she's doing. I will miss hanging out with her - going shopping (not that either of us is big on shopping because we are not), watching movies, cooking together. I'm going to miss basketball season - the way she was all in. I have always said of her that she is a free spirit. She is her own person and does not let culture or other people dictate who she is or what she does. She is brave and adventurous. So much more like her dad that way. She's gregarious and loyal and compassionate. She cares deeply about people. She is passionate about her faith and her pursuit of God. She is fun. I feel so priviledged to be her parent. There will definitely be a void in our home and a void in my life. My life changes today forever. Twenty-one years of parenting and now we'll be down to one at home. I know we'll get used to the new normal, to our new life. I'm excited for Jessica to start her new adventure. She is going to do so great, I know it. It's just me I'm worried about...

Jeanette

The Grocery Store

2011-08-08T16:50:00.000-05:00

I honestly don't know how long I stood there, staring at the pork section. It was probably only a few seconds. How long should one think about cooking for only three? I had already been down the laundry aisle, picking up 2 extra detergents and 2 extra fabric softeners - one will go to the townhome this weekend and the other to the dorm next week. Somehow it made me terribly sad. So I stood there not knowing what to buy. Or, rather, how much to buy. Jacob is dreading it more than anyone, I think. He was the only one home for dinner one night last week. The siblings gone off in two different directions. Johnny and I talked and asked questions and expected him to participate in the conversation. He rolled his eyes at one point and I said, "Buddy, you better get used to it. This will soon be your life all the time." And it will be ours as well.

I will still make the dreaded trip to the grocery store every Monday, as is my practice. I will make my list and cut the coupons. I will walk up and down the aisles and pick up the things that 3 people need. Jacob will add his selections to the list - you know, Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos and stuff like that. I'll get used to it. Then, there will be a break and the college kids will be back. I'll pile my cart with even more stuff and the grocery bill will go back up. I'll be happy about that just like I'm really (no, I really am) happy for the college kids to go. I'm thankful for their precious lives, their devotion to God, and that we are able to send them where they want to go. God is good and life goes on.

Life goes on.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

iRun with Purpose

2011-08-04T11:15:00.000-05:00

I've mentioned on here a time or two that Johnny and I are training for a half marathon. The race is the Dallas White Rock - they have a relay, 1/2 marathon, and marathon. Run the Rock is the first weekend in December so we are training now. Because of the extreme heat (the weather man's title, not mine) we are experiencing Johnny and I start our runs before 7:00 am. That's the only way we could stand it. Our run today was 4 miles - and that's NOT our long run. I know, I know, for real runners that's no big deal but for us to run 4 miles and feel good is quite an accomplishment. Our times are coming down and we are definitely building our endurance on these hot, Texas, summer days.

At our church we have some real runners. They will be finished with the marathon before I finish the half, I have no doubt. We thought it would be fun to form a run team and to do some fundraising for some mission causes. We are looking at some causes like digging water wells, feeding hungry people, helping with medical needs, etc. We are going to finalize our causes in the next few days. So, this year, we are running with purpose.

I read an article yesterday about the food crisis in the Horn of Africa. I also recently read an article about a woman in an African country that literally spends hours every single day - 7 days a week, every single week - walking back and forth fetching water for her family. There are thousands like her. I am trying really hard not to complain about these record-setting hot days when I have air conditioning, plenty to eat, and ice & water to drink available to me within just a few steps from where I sit right now.

Will running in a half marathon make a difference in anyone's life? I don't know. I hope so. I hope it will inspire me and remind me to make the cause of world hunger & disease & the need for clean drinking water known to those in my sphere on influence. I hope it will remind me that I am abundantly blessed. I hope the things that are important to God will be the things that are important to me. I hope to make Him famous and to remember that I do it all for His glory and not mine. (That shouldn't be too hard because there's no glory at the back of the race.) But, if I'm out there putting one foot in front of the other, I hope to do it with purpose.

I hope you are having a great summer - it's winding down with back-to-school almost here! Live your dream, pursue God, love your family!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Profile Change

2011-07-26T09:50:00.000-05:00

I just changed my profile - it used to note that I was the parent of one college student and 2 high school students. Now, well, you can read it for yourself just over there, to the right. It's 3 weeks and 1 day til the middle child goes to college. We started shopping for her dorm room last Saturday. It was fun and way different than dorm shopping for a son! The summer has been so much fun and the house has been busy - kids coming and going...and coming...and coming over... Except this week. They are all gone to Student Life Camp. Johnny leaves tomorrow for Boston - his dad is having cancer surgery - so it will be me and Jadee-dog having some girls' time.

I'm thinking ahead to the fall. I don't have a mission trip planned and I hope to change that. I am really hoping to go on a vision trip this fall. It seems like over the past few years I've always known what my next trip will be so it seems weird to not know for sure. I'm working on a project at church and a writing project so I've plenty to do but mostly, right now, I'm thinking about that profile change - it's going to be so different around here. Not only will Jessica be going off to college but I've gotten used to Josh being around again. He moves back just before Jessica. It's going to be strange and quiet...

The anticipation of the unknown brings the great reminder that God loves those children I call mine more than I do (hard to fathom) and He has a great plan for them and for me and my man. Change is sometimes scary and sometimes a little sad but I am confident that the next chapter will be an adventure, just like all the others!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Vacation Pics - Vernal Falls

2011-07-20T22:17:00.000-05:00

My kids on the Vernal Falls Footbridge

Me and my man on the Vernal Falls Footbridge (don't you love the hat?)

top of Vernal Falls

Looking down from the top of Vernal Falls - we were there just 2 weeks ago

I just read a news article on the FoxNews website about 3 people that went over the falls. They, apparently, climbed over the railing and out onto some slippery rocks and fell in, then went over. They are missing and presumed dead. I wrote about our hike to Vernal Falls in my post California Vacation. The force of the water made for a spectacular sight and it was so worth it to get to the top and see it. Really, it was one of the most impressive things I've ever seen in nature. The Emerald Pool is at the top but we were warned by a park ranger not to get in the water. It's dangerous - particularly this year when they had record snowfall.

I feel sad for the friends and family of those missing. I feel sad for the people who witnessed the 3 going over. The article reported that it's a 317 foot drop and you can see in the above picture that I took from the top, camera pointing down, what's at the bottom. Of course, I'm super afraid of heights so I barely would even go close to the rail. I did have a photo taken by the rail but I feel one picture of me in that hat is enough for one blog post. (Since my last birthday I'm more aware than ever of my age and I'm trying to protect my older skin - I'm getting a lot of use out of that hat.)

I have more vacation pics posted on fb soooo if we're friends, hope on over to my profile and take a look! Yosemite is fabulous!

Jeanette

Summer: 18th day over 100 & it's flying by

2011-07-19T16:03:00.000-05:00

Yes, you read the headline right - I heard on the news this morning that today is the 18th day - in a row - that we have been over 100 degrees in North Texas. Man, it is hot! Our training for the White Rock 1/2 Marathon is definitely hard in this heat. Johnny and I left the house at 7:20 AM both days this week to try to beat the heat. Yesterday, we got back to the house and jumped into the pool - in our running clothes - just to try to cool off.

The summer has been super crazy so far. If you've been reading then you know we did back-to-back weeks on mission trips. We got home from the second one on a Thursday and left 3 days later, on Sunday, for our vacation. We've been home a week and a half and I think something has been going on every single day since then. Nertz night, Bible study, kids in and out and in and out. Last Wednesday I was trying to do some work and the doorbell kept ringing and kids just kept coming over. I wake up in the morning and check to see who's here - if all 3 of mine are and if there some others as well.

So, it has been a really great summer so far. Really great. Johnny and I just got back from setting up our lake house for the week. Well, it's the Wildwood (our travel trailer) at the campground on the nearby lake. We are about to take the boat out there. I'll be back home tonight for Bible study but I think there will be some fellas out there later. They run in packs these days.

One month from today is the day we will take Jessica to college - pack up her stuff and move her off for the first time. Josh will move back a day or so before that since he's a small group leader for SWAT (student welcome & transition week). It will be so strange to only have one child at home.

Gotta go, Johnny's waiting.... Jeanette

Here I Raise My Ebenezer

2011-07-13T14:56:00.000-05:00

I took this picture at Yosemite National Park last week. It was the second uphill hike of the day and I was not sure if I would make it. Plus, I am really scared of heights and it was a steep walk up the side of a huge rock mountain. The view was magnificent and so totally worth it. In the distance were snow-covered mountains and waterfalls. God's creation reminds me that He is glorious and the ultimate Creator.

I saw this pile of rocks and had to take a picture. I immediately thought of that old hymn, Come Thy Fount of Every Blessing, and the verse that contains the phrase in my title. The story is from 1 Samuel 7:10-12. Basically, the Israelites were in a battle with the Philistines and God caused a storm that allowed the Israelites to defeat the Philistines. Then Samuel, the prophet and leader, set up a stone, a stone of remembrance, and named it Ebenezer and said, "Thus far the Lord has helped us."

I don't know why I am repeatedly surprised by God. He is amazing and He does amazing stuff. That's who He is. But, still, sometimes He blows me away. Like today. I'm working on a new project for our i68 missions ministry and have received so much positive feedback and offers to help that I have felt truly blessed and affirmed with the direction we're headed. Then today a friend called to tell me about something God has put on her heart. She didn't know about the new project because (1) I've been away for the last 3 weeks and (2) I'm just now really spreading the word & telling others about what's going on - besides our missions committee, which I told them at their last meeting. Anyway, it seems as though God was telling my friend on His own before I could. Because He's like that and He does what He wants. Incredible.

How do I forget at times, thus far the Lord has helped me? I need to put my own rock pile somewhere around here, I guess. He is faithful. And I am blown away.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

California Vacation

2011-07-11T13:39:00.000-05:00

I typed the following in Yosemite National Park when I didn't have internet, cellphone service or even tv:

My calves were screaming as we made the descent. I was completely soaked – every article of clothing I was wearing as well as my shoes. Even though we were well below the waterfall the roar of the river made conversation difficult – particularly because we mostly walked single-file as a result of all the other people going up and down. A three mile round trip with a 1,000 foot ascent (that’s one thousand feet up and one thousand feet down) to the top of Vernal Falls and the Emerald Pool. When we drove into Yosemite National Park the day before the park attendant asked if it was our first trip to the park. Yes, we told her. She then reported that we picked a great year to come – the waterfalls were still flowing strongly as a result of the excellent snowfall of the winter. We found that to be true when the overspray from the falls on the trail made us look like we had gone for a swim. Even now I know I will be sore in the morning but it was so worth it to get to the top and see that amazing site. On the way down I told God how amazed I was at His creation. I had already been thinking such thoughts the day we went to the aquarium on the bay in San Francisco. I’ve never seen an orange fish with a perfect fuchsia square on it before. In fact, I’ve been to aquariums before and I am always amazed at the variety of fish and other underwater creatures. They even had this one shallow pool where visitors can touch some rays and small sharks. One little ray kept poking his head up. The aquarium girl said he was trying to get his eyes above water so he could see but I so think he just wanted out. Freedom!

We ended the day with another hike. Yeah, because one 3-mile hike up to a waterfall and back was not enough for one day. (I’m super thankful I’m in training for a half-marathon or I would have never made it!) This one was just 2.2 miles round-trip but ended on the top of a huge, exposed rock that seems like it’s the top of the world. Well, maybe the top of Yosemite. We could see waterfalls and snow-covered mountains in the distance. We looked down on Yosemite Valley and, again, I just felt amazed. And, unbelievably happy that I had a chance to see the beauty of God’s creation.

It’s almost time to head home from our California vacation. We’ve made some great memories and seen some amazing sights. From the Go-Car adventure in San Francisco to the little cabin in the woods, I feel blessed beyond measure. And rested in a weird way since every part of my body aches. I just hope I can get out of the bed in the morning…

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Partnerships in the Gospel

2011-06-29T10:31:00.000-05:00

I am sitting in my hotel room in Laredo, Texas, while the rest of our mission team is spread out to 6 locations over the city today. My younger son is down by the river, almost in Mexico, playing soccer while his dad is just up the road painting the exterior of a church. He hates that they are painting the edges of the roof, however, because the boards are rotten and the entire roof really needs to be replaced. Maybe that's a project for another day.

I am the hotel because I feel awful. Maybe it's a result of our misadventure trying to get home from Peru. We finally landed at DFW (Dallas Fort Worth International Airport) after a day and a half trying to get out of Peru. I was supposed to leave for Laredo Monday morning but Johnny got our tickets changed to the evening flight. We landed here in Laredo just 24 hours after landing at DFW the night before. The weather is in complete contrast to the weather we had last week - the truth is, it's stinkin' hot down here near the Rio Grand.

I've been reading and pondering the New Testament letter of Philippians over the last few weeks and started over at the beginning this morning:

I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:3-6

I love that idea of partnerships. What a great responsibility we have as believers and followers of Christ to make the name of Jesus famous to the nations. I have been so privileged to see folks at work in different places around the world doing just that. I love how we join together - how God puts people together - for a common purpose and a common goal. All the way from organizations like World Vision or the IMB & NAMB to the 2 young women living and working in Peru independently. Paul's reminder to me is to be diligent in praying for people with whom I have partnered and to do all I can to support what they are doing for the glory of the Kingdom.

Which leaves me feeling lack a slacker for staying at the hotel this morning. I'll be back out there later today, though, at the block party. Then I'm headed back home tomorrow. Vacation is just days away - and, yes, I'll be flying again but am feeling ok about it! Oh, I forgot to mention that when I got to the airport Monday I was told the flight to Laredo was oversold & I didn't have a seat. Then, we were sitting on the airplane and the flight was delayed. It made me feel a little anxious after all we went through in Peru but we made here safely nonetheless. And, only 30 minutes late! I'll take that after a day & a half late any ol' time!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

In Peru with 2 of My Kids

2011-06-25T21:15:00.000-05:00

According to my itinerary I should be home right now but, yet, here I am sitting at a hotel in MiraFlores, Peru. Our flight got cancelled last night (electrical problem) and, well, it was actually a big fiasco and more than 24 hours after we initially got to the airport last night we are about to head back over there. The above picture was taken yesterday - our tourist day - at a restaurant near the presidential palace in Lima. We were enjoying a good meal and a good time of fellowship with the American missionaries and new Peruvian friends after a week of hard work. And what an unbelievable week it was. Our main project was going into several schools and sharing the Gospel as well as some fun activities. We came into contact with literally thousands of children this past week. It was a great week but I am still processing it all. One person that our missionary friends have been specifically praying for came to know Jesus while we have been here. It was glorious!

I keep typing sentences and then deleting them. I guess I have too many tangled thoughts but am mostly thinking about getting home to my man and that place where I feel most comfortable. The place where I get rejuvinated so I can go out again and do what God has called me to do. Yeah, home sweet home ... excited to be there!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Two Mission Trips in Two Weeks

2011-06-16T19:03:00.000-05:00

I am leaving in about a day and a half for a mission trip to Peru. The thing is, I'll get home and leave for mission trip number two 2 days after I get home. What in the world was I thinking all those months ago? Thankfully, I have really great people helping plan #2 and feel fully confident that everything that needs to be taken care of WILL be taken care of while I am away. Besides that, our Student Pastor is doing most of the planning for #2 so I really didn't have that much to do anyway!

I was meeting with our missions committee last week and, even though I'm leaving for 2 trips shortly, I don't even think I brought them up. On to other things... I laughingly said I wake up at night thinking about missions. But I do. Something is always brewing around in my head. So many people want to be involved - want to help, want to go, want to support. It is an indescribable and unbelievable blessing to work with so many great people. I am continually amazed that I have the privilege to do such things.

Well, I've got to get laundry out, run to the store, and I'm still working on part of the 6,000 armbands that I'm taking along. I'll covet your prayers on behalf of our team and those we will work with and those we will encounter!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

It's My Birthday

2011-06-02T09:35:00.000-05:00

I've had such an interesting week. No, nothing exciting or big is going on but I am perplexed by people's expectations. I don't even know what else to type about that so I'll move on. The week started with Memorial Day on Monday. Johnny and I ran in the American Heroes 5k in Arlington. The race was kicked off by a BlackHawk helicopter flying down the street, right at us. We are training for a half-marathon, the White Rock in Dallas in December, so the 5k was a great way to keep our training on track. I hope to find a 10k around September or October that fits our schedule. We are running the half this year because I really want to run a marathon before 50. You know, one of those bucket list things. With my birthday today I am fully aware that 50 is not that far away. Yikes, I can remember when 50 sounded so old and I most definitely don't feel old. Well, except for the soreness in my legs after the 5k and, well, a few other minor things like not being able to read without the drugstore reading glasses. That is frustrating - to look at a page and just see blurry images. Or, trying to read my twitter or fb on my cellphone without the reading glasses. Ugh! (Yes, I tried the multifocal contacts but they just didn't work for me.)

I am looking forward to today. I picked family game night for my birthday. That's what I value the most other than the awesome privilege of serving God and being His child -the time with my husband and kids is precious, especially with 2 going to college this year. I don't take it for granted at all anymore.

I gotta run - literally, I'm training for a race! Live your dream, pursue God, love your family!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Graduation #2

2011-05-29T09:07:00.000-05:00

I found this picture of Jessica when I was going through lots and lots of old pictures for senior slide show and graduation table. It was a graduation from preschool in 1998.

And this is one of Jessica's senior pictures from this year. I could bawl my eyes out right now but I'm too darn tired. I've woken up every morning for at least 2 weeks thinking about graduation and graduation parties. It's been a lot of work, for heaven's sake. And, I would not change a thing or take away one minute of it. Maybe that one minute when... well, you don't want to read about that...

I've had a couple of good cries over the past couple of weeks, though. Man, time flies when you're having fun. Or, time flies when you are living life. Looking at old pictures and thinking about all the great things that have happened over the last 18 years of Jessica's life has been a great joy. That girl has kept us busy! She was always playing a sport. I found pictures of a little bity girl playing soccer and baseball. Even in high school she has played volleyball, golf, and ran track. Not every year except for basketball. That's the one she really loves - basketball. She has been involved in so many activities including this year being President of the Student Council, co-mascot & pep rally co-host, and co-commentator of the weekly update. I am not sure who is going to be able to fill Jess & Chris's shoes after this year!

Yesterday was the big day. We had family time with presents & lunch then we went to the actual graduation. That was followed by not one, not even 2, but 3 parties. First, there was the party of our family friends, followed by Jessica & Jared's graduation party, followed by the all-night party with just some of the senior class, the graduates. I'm not sure how that last one ended up because I had to sleep. They were all gone by the time I woke up this morning. According to facebook, it was a success.

I woke up this morning in a bit of a fog. You know, when you can't really remember what day it is at first or what you are supposed to be doing that day. I had to force my mind to remember that graduation was over and there is nothing to be done for it. (except the clean-up and that can wait) I do have 2 mission trips in June that I am planning and a writing project that Johnny and I are working on. Oh, and that half-marathon I am training for and the 5k I am running in tomorrow.

Life goes on - things end and new things start. It's bittersweet. I feel incredibly blessed to have an amazing family and some great friends. Many days I feel like God is better to me than I deserve. Even in those hard, long days I know for sure that His presence is real and my hope is secure.

James, the writer of the New Testament book by that name, wrote this, "You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away." (James 4:14, in part) This vapor is having one great ride.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Rollercoaster Days

2011-05-10T09:14:00.000-05:00

We were within 48 hours of the high school senior registering for classes at Oklahoma Baptist University. Choosing a college was a breeze for the oldest - the first college that sent an acceptance letter to him was it. We have been a little back and forth with Jessica. She has had a couple of friends who came home after only 1 semester of college so she doesn't want to make a mistake. Anyway, on Thursday Jessica received an email from DBU with information about a new degree plan. We were on the phone making an appointment to visit with the professor and at DBU meeting with him before the afternoon was up. As a result, Jessica is now planning to go to Dallas Baptist University and we will be the proud parents of 2 Patriots this August. Whew!

We are less than 3 weeks away from graduation and are busy making party plans, graduation plans AND planning for the summer as well. Which includes vacation plans and mission trip plans. I've been having trouble sleeping - not because I'm worried or anxious but simply because there are sooo many things going on. On top of that, Josh is moving back home today for the summer. It's so rarely the 5 of us and just the 5 of us that I am cherishing these days.

There's too much to do today to be blogging so I'm out!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

How do YOU define success?

2011-05-04T14:40:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday my Life Group (Sunday School) class lesson was from the 1st chapter of the Old Testament book of Joshua. In that chapter, God was speaking to Joshua as he took over leadership of the Hebrew people after the death of Moses. In verse 7, God encouraged the people through Joshua to be careful to do everything God said and to follow His law so that they would have success wherever they went. I made the point to my ladies that God does not define success the same way our culture does or maybe even the same way we might.

To my youngest son, success might be defined as passing the driving test. Yes, my youngest is now a licensed driver and I am out of the momma taxi business. Maybe that is a sign of success, I don't know. To my middle child, success might be finishing her senior year strong and going to the college of her choice in just a few short months. We will be packing her up and moving her to Oklahoma Baptist University in the thriving metropolis (I typed sarcastically) of Shawnee, Oklahoma, just 3 1/2 months. For my oldest, success might be sticking with a major for a solid year in college and even planning to keep the same one into next school year. Only, he's added a master's degree program but we are still trying to get him out before #3 starts college. Now, that would be success!!

How do you define success? Is it related to your career or your family, personal ambition, material possessions?

How do you think God defines success? Ahhh, now that's a good question! Then this one - where does your definition of success intersect with God's?

These are just thoughts I am pondering today. It's so beautiful outside maybe I'll just take my thoughts out there. All I know is this, if I had created this day - one of the most perfect weather days ever - I would count that a success!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Passion Week and Good Friday

2011-04-22T11:41:00.000-05:00

I have been looking over the passages in the Gospels related to Passion Week during my personal Bible study this week. On Monday, Jesus cleansed the temple and cursed a fig tree. Jesus said, "My house shall be called a House of Prayer; but you are making it a robbers' den." He quoted Jeremiah 7:11 where the prophet, Jeremiah, warned his listeners that they were dishonest with themselves and with God by going to the temple and practicing religion but not living it out in their daily lives. I think it is similar to what the writer of Hebrews (unknown to us) scripted in chapter 6:11-14. I once heard Will Graham call the kind of believers written about there as "spiritual dwarfs." It's time to stop drinking milk and get to the good stuff, the solid food.

On Tuesday, Jesus was back at the temple having conversations with the religious leaders. They questioned Him and He taught truth. They (the religious leaders) were out of their minds with anger and frustration. They were plotting how they would stop Him but they had to calculate how they would do it and get the people who were believing to go along with it. Matthew 21:46 records that "they feared the people, because they considered Him to be a prophet." They had yet to believe He was all that He said He was and is. Some would never believe. Jesus desperately wanted to save. In Matthew 23:37 He said of Jerusalem, "How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling." (emphasis mine) Those last 3 words are chilling to me but I have to wonder how often have I also been unwilling.

Also on Tuesday, Jesus had the conversation with His followers about the end times. They asked, "How will we know? What will be the signs?" Are we still asking those questions? I think so. We see the wars and rumors of wars, the famines and earthquakes that Jesus spoke about in Matthew 24. I mean, for real, are we having some crazy weather things going on in recent years and even weeks? I love Luke 21:28 (I heard Francis Chan quote this verse recently), "But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." Amen and amen.

There are no recorded events in the Bible for Wednesday. I wonder what Jesus did. Did He eat a good meal and go out to play football with the kids like we might do on a holiday? Did He spend the entire in solitude with the Father, in preparation for the days ahead? Of course, we don't know. But, the next days would be intense and He knew it.

Thursday - the Last Supper and those last precious hours with the disciples before the arrest, trials, and crucifixion. Jesus had been preparing the disciples for what was to come. They still didn't get it. "I will never deny you," Peter said. "We would never abandon you," they all agreed. Do you think their own words stabbed them in their hearts as the events of the crucifixion unfolded, as they looked at Him upon the cross? Then there's John 17, the High Priestly prayer - the Son of God's intercession for His people. It is intense. He spoke, He prayed, His desire for people of all time - that by knowing Him they would know God and that God would be glorified.

And then Friday, Good Friday. The events that woud follow started with a kiss, the kiss of betrayal from one that had been so close. Have you felt betrayed by someone who seemed so close? The events that would follow were harrowing and ended with the lifeless body of Jesus wrapped in burial clothes, placed in a tomb, and the stone was rolled to cover the opening. In the pitch black, the human body of the incarnate One, the Savior of the world, laid dead.

It wasn't over - Sunday was coming. Sunday is coming. Oh happy day!

Good Friday is one of the most important days in the life of the believer but, Hallelujah, it's a day that leads to THE most important day that we celebrate - Easter. The price was paid on Good Friday but the benefits are eternal. Praise His name.

Serving the only One who has the power to save,

Jeanette

Sixteen Candles

2011-04-14T09:58:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the baby of the family turned 16. Yeah, the youngest is 16 - amazing. I was excited to go to Rally last night and hear his band because I missed it last week. It was awesome, as usual. They are getting ready for Easter Sunday. Because our sanctuary will be packed on that Sunday, we will have an overflow room in the gym. There will be live music in both places then the sermon will be simulcast into the gym.

I am really so proud of Jacob. He's amazing on the drums, even if I am his momma. It's his passion. He's a deep thinker, too, but I don't think most people expect him to be because he's also really funny, the clown. He loves music and music trivia. He's intensely compassionate and sensitive to the downtrodden and the underdog. He's loyal and smart. He does not want to stand out or be the center of attention - unless, of course, he's playing the drums or being funny.

Last night after church some guys came over and we had an ice cream cake that MawMaw purchased for the big day. Turning 16 is big stuff! Jacob won't get his driver's license for a couple of weeks then I will be out of the momma taxi service. Wow, that's weird to think about after being at that job for 21 years. Another milestone for the Dickersons family.

In the meantime, we're trying desperately to get wisdom teeth out and make college plans, mission trip arrangements, and reservations for our family vacation. We are just a month and a half away from graduation and school being out. I'm starting to ramble so I think I'll just end here.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

To Better Enjoy God's Creation, My Dear

2011-04-07T14:39:00.000-05:00

I didn't see it and really don't know much about it but there was recently a new movie about the old story of Little Red Riding Hood. I think it was sort of edgy and dark. Anyway, I was thinking about the old story, the way we used to tell it. Remember when Little Red Riding Hood encounters the wolf dressed up like her grandma and she asks about her big eyes and the wolf replies, "Better to see you with, my dear."? And so on about other facial features. Well, this blog post is not really about that at all...

We recently purchased a convertible. It's a little, red Volkswagon EOS and it's simply fantastic. My youngest thinks it's showy and he is unwilling to ride with the top down, though I've made him do it a time or two anyway. It is a little conspicuous but it is totally fun to drive and ride in. The night the moon was closer to the earth than it's been in years - a Saturday night a few weeks ago - Johnny and I went out for a drive and then sat in a parking lot with the top down just to look at the moon.

I love the outdoors and enjoying God's creation. That's one of the biggest benefits of the convertible -- better to enjoy God's creation, my dear! The wind blowing in my hair, the sunshine warming my skin - I love it!

The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Psalm 19:1

Springtime in Texas is the best time to enjoy God's creation. I've been out in my yard seeing which plants made it from last year and enjoying seeing them in bloom again this year. I've planted a few new ones and have been getting my garden ready for new herbs and vegetable plants.

And, I've been out there thanking God for His provision and His faithfulness. He really is so good.

Hey, get out there and enjoy a little sunshine and creation!

Serving the Creator of it all,

Jeanette

The Reason NOT to Go on Mission Trips

2011-03-10T09:47:00.000-06:00

As you know, if you read my last 2 blog posts, I just went to the Bill Glass Weekend of Champions in Huntsville, TX, last weekend. Last night at church I saw one of my friends from the trip. We chatted only very briefly but she told me she had a conversation with the lady who planned our trip (and then got sick and could not go) about what to do now. Bascially she said something like this, "I can't go down there (to the jail in Houston) and spend 2 days then leave and say, 'see you next year.'" And then she said, "See, this is why I don't go on mission trips." She was kidding (I think) but completely got to the heart of the purpose of mission trips. Oh yeah, of course the purpose of mission trips is to share the Gospel with those that desperately need to hear as well as show the love of God in visible, tangible ways. That's the impact mission trip participants have on those they go to. But, the dual purpose is what God does in the lives and hearts of the mission trip participants. When you go and come back, you come back changed.

I remember when I went on my first overseas mission trip. Even though I have travelled some for tours and vacations, it was nothing like going and sharing life with believers in a South American country. Eating what they eat. Worshipping like they worship, even if I didn't understand the language. Hearing their struggles and their joys. Hearing how God is calling them to fulfill His mission and seeing that in action. I was hooked. Me, the biggest homebody ever, was hooked. One of the greatest thrills of my life is to take people places they have never been to do things they've never done. Maybe they even wondered if they were capable. I am so glad we don't go in our own strength or talent.

So, here's the deal, do NOT go on a misison trip if you don't want your life to be forever changed. If you are content with living your life seeing the world from your comfortable perspective, don't go. If you don't want to know what's actually going on in the world, don't go. If you don't want to have the joy of telling someone about Jesus who has never even heard His name, don't go. If you don't want to be stretched out of your comfort zone or ability, don't go. If you don't want to come home and wonder what you can do to make an impact not only on unreached and hurting people around the world but also in your own city and neighborhood, don't go. If you think Christ's command to go and tell was not meant for you then, by all means, don't go.

However, if you take Jesus at His Word, then go. If you are willing to risk what He might do in you and through you, then go. If you are willing to take a step of faith and even take the risk of being forever changed, then please, I beg you, go.

I know it's asking a lot. I know it's a lot of money. I know it might mean taking vacation time from work or leaving your children. I know it might be hard and the food might be awful and you won't know the language. I know it might even seem dangerous. I know and I get it. Would you at least pray about it? No, no, I mean REALLY pray about it? Would you seek God's Word about it? If yes, then let me know how I can pray with you and for you. Let me know how I can help.

If God's not calling you to go, then don't go. Just find out for sure if He is or not. That's all.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Five Days

2011-03-08T09:07:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I got back from a truly exhausting 5 days - first, to the prison event and then home for only 17 hours and then to Shawnee, Oklahoma, for a college visit. The exhaustion is mostly emotional, I think. I spent 2 days in Harris County Jail talking to inmates, precious women who just happened to make some really bad choices. One woman, whom I spent several hours talking to, and I really have a lot in common. We both have 3 kids and have spent years primarily being mommas. She told me she has been to Women of Faith and has even done a Beth Moore Bible study. She just got off track somewhere along the way. We spent a lot of time talking about the Bible. She reads it a lot because she has lots of time to do that right now. We exchanged information and she promised to write me to let me know what she thinks about some books of the OT I suggested she read. I hope she writes and I hope I am diligent to write back.

We got home about 9 pm on Saturday and on Sunday my cousin and her family were at our church. My cousin's daughter is a missionary and she was there to help promote missions in general as well as summer trips. We have not had too many people from our extended families come to our church so it was a rare privilege for me. It really, really meant more to me than I thought it would. We went to lunch with my cousin's family and our missions committee and then Jessica and I left to head up to Shawnee. She spent the night in the dorm with some girls, went to class & chapel, and attended some other pre-college events. I, of course, attended the parent-of-almost-college-student events. We talked at lunch before we headed home on Monday. She told me that spending the night in the dorm made her realize, a little bit, what it might be to live 3 1/2 hours from home. Then she told me she would miss me the most. I don't know if she would want me to write that or not but it when she said it I asked her about some other people she would miss. But, me the most. I held it all together really great the entire time we were gone until we got about 20 minutes from our house. She was driving my car and listening to some country music. A song came on about a dad and his daughter. Part of the chorus contains these words, "There goes my life. There goes my future, my everything. I love you, baby, goodbye." That was it. I lost it. She had to move to the next song.

In the meantime, my firstborn turned 21 just last week. And, we are working on driver's ed with #3. Jacob will have his license and be out and about on his own before summer. It is the strangest thing. I want them to grow up and be successful and have great adult lives and yet I want to hang on so tightly.

So, I'm worn out. Five days of intense emotion. Five days away from my haven, my home. Five days of being extremely thankful for where I am and all that God has done and is doing in my life and in the life of my immediate and extended family, including my church family. Five days away from my man. Five days jam-packed with activity and going and doing - I travelled over 1,000 miles in five days.

But, today, ahhhhh today. I'm working from home and I have a sick kid upstairs asleep. It's quiet except the dog is unusually antsy. Today I feel peaceful. And beyond thankful. And blessed, unbelievably blessed.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Where, O Where, Have You Been?

2011-02-23T17:09:00.000-06:00

Wow, the last few weeks have absolutely flown by! My Jessica played her last basketball game as a high school student. It got pushed back a whole week because of the crazy weather we were having but the big day finally arrived. I was emotional but managed not to cry. Not that I didn't want to or have had plenty of cause to shed a few tears around here lately. I mean, this senior year stuff is rough! She still has not chosen a college but I am fairly certain she will chose one of the 2 that have offered the most scholarship money. Hey, the both have her deposit and both are expecting her to come so all she has to do is determine where God would have her spend the next 4-5 years of her life. I think she is leaning heavily toward the one not close to home and I'm trying to be ok with that. We will make a visit there in the next couple of weeks so I will pray that the visit will help her make her final decision.

Mostly, I am consumed with Fusion. My tendency is to stay home and study -- I love it, I truly do. I have to be so careful or I could become a hermit. I love my desk piled up with books and papers with the Bible right on top. The OT book of Judges is absolutely fascinating. I am amazed day after day how God applies that story from so long ago to my life every single day. In a crazy way, even the smallest detail can apply to something that I deal with - or that I know the people in my class can relate to in some way.

The next big thing for me is that I am leaving one week from tomorrow to go to prison. A prison ministry event, that is! (not that you were worried one bit about me going to prison for any other reason!) We are taking a group of 17 women down to Huntsville/Houston area for the Bill Glass Weekend of Champions. God has really put an interesting group together and I am super excited about what's going to happen next weekend.

Well, I've been having a conversation wtih my senior while this post has been hanging...so I've lost track & have nothing else to post. So long!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Snowed In and Getting Out

2011-02-05T22:36:00.000-06:00

Four days -- we were snowed in for four days. Well, actually, we were iced in for 3 and snowed in for 1. No school, not much getting out. Today the sun, the glorious sun, was out and pretty much all the ice and snow melted and the roads are clear. Johnny and I got out this morning and shoveled snow and ice off our driveway and sidewalk. Not that we needed to because later in the day it would have all melted. It just felt so good to be outside, soaking in some vitamin D. Jessica and I went to the mall. It was great to be out of the house! Not that I don't love my family and love the togetherness. We played Wii and Scene It and Rock Band and Sequence and ate -- and I cooked and we ate. And, we had dirty dishes and we put them in the dishwasher, ran it, and then cleaned it out. I think we've run that dishwasher more this week than any other week since we moved into this house.

I really tried to appreciate the week even though my schedule and routine were wrecked. We are so often running and doing and going we rarely stop and take it easy and enjoy family time and down time. I read this week. I relaxed when it wasn't a weekend. I rested both physically and mentally. I tried to be still before God and to not do all the talking.

This week was an unexpected pleasure and I'm thankful for it. I'm not sure how many of the school days will have to be made up but I'm sure it will all work out. I'm behind on a few things but not stressed about it. I'm looking forward to tomorrow - seeing my Life Group gals and hearing them recite their memory verses. I'm excited to participate in corporate worship and hear my husband bring the Word. And, I'm excited to get back on a schedule! And in a routine where life is a little more predictable.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

We Will Serve the Lord

2011-01-26T08:48:00.000-06:00

My friend and ministry partner (our husbands are pastors together here at our church), Julie, is one of the most creative people I know. She is a photographer and took our family pics for Christmas. She made a collection of 3 of the photos for us on a board with Joshua 24:15, in part, printed on it: As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. We used that verse in our Judges study on one of the first 2 weeks of the study. That has everything to do with the book of Judges. When Joshua said those words to the people of Israel, they replied, "Oh yeah, us too. Forbid it that we would ever serve false gods." (My interpretation, obviously) Yet, there they were time and again, serving those false gods.

I looked up the word serve in my Lexical Aids this morning. The original word is Avadh and it has these meanings: "to serve, be made to serve, be served...(other similar words)...to worship, cause to worship." There's a few sentences giving examples of the word used in Scripture then this sentence, "Service to God is an exhilarating experience which does not seem like bondage at all."

an exhilarating experience which does not seem like bondage at all...

The Apostle Paul repeatedly referred to himself as "a bond-servant of Christ." (see Romans 1:1, for example) Paul made a willing choice to give up his own rights, desires, and will in order to serve the Lord. I wonder if, for Paul, it was an exhilarating experience that did not seem like bondage at all. We know by reading his letters that he definitely suffered hardship. He stuck with it. He didn't give up. In what was likely his last letter, Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 4:17-18, "But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me...The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him be the glory forever and ever." (NASB)

We will serve the Lord is about more than going to church and attending Bible study. I actually love going to church. I love being with a community of believers and I love corporate worship. I am a church girl. No doubt about it. But, that's not where my service is. And that cannot be the sum total of my worship. I worship privately at home. I worship by serving others. I serve God by serving others. To the glory of His great name.

And, it is an exhilarating experience which does not seem like bondage at all.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

He Leads Me Beside Quiet Waters

2011-01-19T15:20:00.000-06:00

Across from my seat here in my home office, hanging on the wall, is a Larry Dyke painting. It was given to us on our 5th anniversary at Crescent Park Baptist Church. Its title is Shades of Spring and is one of 3 paintings or prints that we have by Larry Dyke. This one is a river or stream in what must be Texas in Spring because of the Bluebonnets and other wildflowers. Today it made me think of the 23rd Psalm, particularly verse 2 -- "He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." (NASB)

I am thankful for green pastures and still or quiet waters. I'm thankful for the strength and rest that comes in such places for, certainly, the rushing waters, storms and barren places are out there as well. I'm thankful for those as well, although that's hard to write.

I am reading in Job today. God asked Job, "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? ... Who sets its measurements? (Job 38:4,5, in part) It goes on as God describes nature and His creation. It was God, btw, that created it all. He spoke it into being and breathed life into it all.

And, He decides about the quiet waters and the green pastures. Lead me there because that's where I want to be. But, thank You, too, that You are there in the storm, in the rushing waters, in the barren places.

In Your presence is where I want to be.

Serving the Creator,

Jeanette

Finally, A Month Later

2011-01-18T10:02:00.000-06:00

Today the college boy goes back to -- college. Classes start today but he was really sick over the weekend and his first class is not until noon so he's headed back this morning. We had a long weekend because of the MLK holiday - which, btw, was filled with DNow weekend and a house full of girls - following a short week last week because of high school finals. I was beginning to wonder if we would ever get back into a routine of normalness. Actually, not that I know what normal is and not that we ever really get there.

I am in my home office working on our Fusion project. It was super exciting to have over 100 people in class Sunday evening. We are making some adjustments - like changing rooms because the original space is too small for our attendance - but I am looking forward to the next several weeks. Here's what I know for sure, people are hurting and lives, marriages are falling apart. Studying God's Word is vital, I believe, but ONLY IF those who study are willing to follow it, to obey what God instructs through the written word. I praying for that over every person who was in class this week.

I'm also looking for something to do. I love working at home, I love coordinating missions, I love writing and teaching with Johnny, I love prepping for my Life Group, but I feel like I should be doing more. I am laughing outloud at myself -- doing more?? That's crazy. Who says that? I believe, however, if I'm doing what I'm supposed to that God will help me accomplish all that He has called me to do. No more, no less.

So, I've got to get off here and on with my first day back to all kids in school (yes, the college boy just left) and first day of getting a routine established for 2011.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Change

2011-01-13T10:38:00.000-06:00

Your life can change in a heartbeat, in a breath. Gunshots can ring out and change the world as you know it in an instant. You could hear the words, "You have cancer" or you could be instantly stricken with another illness or disease. You or someone you love could be involved in an accident.

How would we respond in the face of adversity or loss? Will we ever really know until that moment? Because I would like to think I would be strong and trusting but those who know me well know I am a little high strung. I would like to think I would rest in His enormous grace and comfort but, really, I don't know. Can I be honest? I hope I don't have to find out.

Some heavy things are going on this week. No, not in my life or in the life of my family. I am sorrowful for the events in Arizona and for tragedies in Australia. I grieve for those I know who are grieving. I am praying for those I know right now are counting on God for a miraculous recovery. I know for sure He is able. I know it. For sure.

But, then there's the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Agednego. They knew God was able to rescue but they said, "But even if He does not rescue us..." (Daniel 3:18, in part). Even if He chose not to rescue they would not worship a false god or put their trust in another.

Even if things don't turn out the way I want or expect, will I choose to worship God alone and put my trust completely on Him? I would like to think so.

So, here' the deal. Don't wait for that emergency call. We have got to be in shape spiritually so that when we need that spiritual strength, strength in the face of unforeseen change, we'll be ready.

How are you getting ready today?

Serving the King,

Jeanette

1/11/11

2011-01-11T10:02:00.000-06:00

So, what's up with you? We now have a BCS National Champion - exciting game down to the wire, by the way, and I could care less about who won. Week 2 of getting back into the routine after the Christmas break. We finally got everything back in the attic just this morning. I actually had to buy more storage tubs this year. I didn't think I bought too much new stuff...I guess I did. Some people are getting lots & lots of snow that, apparently, will be around for a couple of more days since the freezing temps aren't going to allow it to melt. It snowed here for hours on Sunday but nothing stuck or accumulated. It is stinkin' cold, though, and I'm thankful for a warm and cozy house. Especially since I saw a report on the news last night about a tent-city over in Fort Worth. Yeah, people sleeping in tents because that's their only option. And, I know that's the case all over the world - people just trying to find a place to lay their weary heads down whether it is in the hot or the cold. The rhetoric is getting heated out there. No, it was not a particular political party's fault that a CRAZY gunman opened fire on a crowd of people. That was tragic and horrible. I keep hearing about the 9-year old girl who was killed. I cannot imagine the anguish of her parents. Yet, I heard about another little, bitty girl that was accidentally shot this weekend. It hasn't been on the news and no one is telling her life story. As caught up as we are in the story of one, there was just as precious of a life - many lives over the weekend, I suppose - that was lost over the weekend. In fact, according to the World Vision website, a child dies from hunger-related issues every 7 seconds. Every 7 seconds. So they have a counter on the website that changes every 7 seconds that goes through the day and counts how many children die each day from hunger-related issues. When I checked it this morning - the morning - it was already up to 5,338 children. I haven't seen that on the news today.

Well, that's a bunch of randomness that started with football and ended in world hunger. Such is my life on 1/11/11.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Rescue, Restore, Refine

2011-01-05T09:03:00.000-06:00

This coming Sunday night is the first night of Fusion for 2011. Fusion is an adult Bible study written and taught by my best friend and pastor, Johnny Dickerson, and myself. Part of our focus is to get couples studying God's Word together and talking about how God can and is working in them and through them. We feel this is vital not only to the spiritual health of the individual but to the health of the marriage. And, ultimately, to the next generation. This semester we are in the book of Judges. Oh, I love this book so much. But, verse 10 of chapter 2 is chilling. Check this out:

"That whole generation was also gathered to their ancestors. After them another generation rose up who did not know the Lord or the works He had done for Israel." (HCSB)

The next generation did not know God. That's not what I want for our next generation. There are various reports about the number of students that will walk away from the church when they leave their parents' home. I've seen 61 and 70%. The survey that reported 70% noted that some will eventually return. Here's the deal - God's Word commands that we, as parents, teach God's Word to our kids. Additionally, we must model a life devoted to the study of and obedience to the Scriptures.

I get it about the cycles of the book of Judges. It's the story of my life. Sunday night at our church we sang the old hymn Come Thou Fount of Every Blessings. While I am more of a Passion and HillSong girl on my iPod, I still have an affection for the great hymns of our faith. Part of that hymn contains these words: "Prone to wander, Lord I feel it, prone to leave the God I love." Do you get that? Has that ever been you?

I read the below paragraph to my LifeGroup this past Sunday. It's from the book Praise Habit by David Crowder. Oh yes, that would be the David Crowder of the David Crowder Band, my former-favorite band of all time. (It has only been replaced by my sons' band.) The book is, oddly enough, about the habit of praise. Here's what I read to my class:

"For most of us this natural ritual of praise, this offering of our ordinary life, this new reality of identity, is as foreign as crop dusting or macromolecular biophysics. We have forgotten. We have held our breath too long. Our rhythm is thrown off. There are extra firings; nerve endings have grown that set our hearts beating after other stuff. Lesser things that captured our affections have displaced the reality of the centrality of God... This is disheartening in that we know our living could be deeper and we have settled..." (page 40, emphasis mine)

Lesser things, prone to wander. When I know, I know, where the abundant life is, the security and the peace and the assurance.

An old friend (she's not old, she's in her early 20s, I've just known her for a while) gave me the DC book just before I went to India. DC used the word rescue over and over in the book. In the meantime, I have been studying, meditating, probing the book of Judges for over a year. God rescued the Israelites when they cried out to Him in desperation. His desire was to restore the covenant relationship between the people and Himself. Once people are rescued and the relationship restored, I think God wants to refine His people. He said, "Be holy, as I am holy." While we will never stop sinning altogether, confession is vital to that refining process.

So the culmination of weeks and weeks, months and months, of study and prep begin this Sunday night. I am anxious and anticipating what God will do, what He will teach each of us (yes, including me) over the next 9 weeks. I am excited about getting to know more of our church family - you know, the ones I don't usually come in contact with but will be in class. I am hopeful that hearts will be open and changed by the powerful words in Judges. I hope that I am forever changed, refined once again.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

On the Eve of a New Year

2010-12-31T10:06:00.000-06:00

New Year's Eve 2010 - wow, what an eventful year. I started the year in Wyoming with my man - I love him more every year. We have such great times together. The next week we rescued my Pit Bull/Boxer mix from the animal shelter and I am absolutely crazy about that dog. I took a couple of mission trips to Laredo and went to Peru and India within just a few weeks of each other. That was crazy. I got my first gig as a paid writer and I will be published in 2011. Check that one off the bucket list, though I seriously hope to do it again. Johnny and I completed a 20-week study of the book of Matthew that we started in '09. In '11 we are digging into the book of Judges. We took a long road trip with our kids to Orlando and Georgia in the summer and remembered all the good times we've had on roadtrips as a family - although we parted with our memory-filled gold Suburban. The Black Pearl has been a fine substitution.

I've learned a lot in 2010. In some ways it was a hard year and in many ways a fabulous one! I'll send another one off to college in '11 and I have mixed emotions about that. All-in-all, I'm looking forward to a new year -- no resolutions this year because I never tend to keep them. But, I am anticipating what God has for my family and myself and am thankful for what He has already done in us and for us.

Blessings to you and yours and a very Happy New Year!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

2010-12-24T15:50:00.000-06:00

It's Christmas Eve - one of my most favorite days of the entire year. We just had our first Christmas eve jam session - Jacob on drums, Josh on bass, Jessica on the cowbell, Johnny on tamborine, and me on the keyboard. It was totally fun for me. Yeah, we had the old Baptist hymnal out just playing those familiar Christmas caroles. We've been in the kitchen making our snacks for tonight and now the kids are upstairs watching a movie and Johnny and I are about to start getting ready for the Christmas eve service at church. The weather outside is frightful - cold, rainy and dreary - but inside it is truly delightful! I am super thankful for my family and all that God has provided for us. 2011 will bring some big changes to our household. We will soon have another person living here and we'll be thinking about moving our Jess off to college at the beginning of the fall semester. God is good, He is so good.

A couple of weeks ago, our church choir and sign (language) choir had our Christmas service at church. One of the songs had words something like this: one king brought the gold, one king brought the myrrh, one king brought the frankicense, and one King brought the hope of the world. Yeah, the hope of the world, that's why we celebrate. That's why we get upstairs in our music room and play music and spend time together and eat delicious food and share gifts with one another. (although, as time goes on, the gift receiving for me does not mean near as much as just spending time with my family - besides the gift of hope, it is the greatest gift)

Hey, have yourself a very, merry Christmas! God bless you and yours with His richest blessings!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2010-12-20T12:10:00.000-06:00

family pic from Christmas card photo day

It's Monday morning of Christmas week! woohoo!! We took our travel trailer, the Wildwood, out to the lake near our house for a few days so we've been camping, sort of, on and off since Thursday. It was nice to sit around the campfire and roast marshmallows and relax. The highlight of the camping trip, however, had to be when the girls' team came from behind to win bocce ball. Yeah, it was awesome! And yesterday we went to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra at American Airlines Center. Amazing!

Decorating done. check. The staff Christmas brunch was here at our house last week. check. Christmas cards have all been sent. check. Mostly done with shopping...just waiting on the UPS man for a couple of items. We have a couple of family tradition-type things to do this week and I do have to make one more trip (I hope only one more) to the grocery store. All-in-all, it should be a glorious week.

I am totally thankful for a great 2010. In some ways it has been a super, hard year. The fall turned out to be probably both one of the best and one of the most difficult in recent years. In fact, I tried to write a blog a couple of weeks ago about the fog (the only word I can think of to describe it) I seemed to be in. I didn't post it, or finish it for that matter, because it was just too depressing. I tried to describe it to a friend and she asked me if it was spiritual. I get so frustrated when people say they are "burned out" in ministry -- where is that in Scripture? Yet, we also see those times when Jesus retreated. He went to be alone with the Father. Listen, if the only Son of God needed that then we, as mere mortals, do too. Absolutely, without a doubt. So, I took a couple of weeks off from teaching my class - thankfully, I have a couple of ladies that I can count on to pinch hit for me on occasion. I rested both physically and in God's Word. I wasn't prepping for a class, a mission trip, or a study that I will be teaching. I just soaked it in for me. I've been doing a word study on the word rescue and it was been a breath of fresh air - maybe more like a resuscitating breath, actually. I'm ready for all the fun of Christmas and the celebration of the bringing in of the New Year. I'm looking forward to what 2011 has in store and am anticipating what God will bring for my family and myself.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Another One Turns 18

2010-11-30T11:22:00.000-06:00

Today Jessica turns 18. We were having our family Christmas card photo taken the other day and Jessica wanted her picture taken with this leaf. Jessica likes the outdoors and the ability to enjoy God's creation. I think Jessica looks more like me (our little girl pics are so similar) but she has her dad's personality. Oh yeah, big time! Jessica is a born-leader and is a people-person. She is loyal and friendly and compassionate. She loves basketball - particularly women's basketball. Yes, I am a fan of Baylor women's basketball and Jessica is too but she's a bigger fan of UConn. She would really like a women's team to hold the record for most consecutive wins. She's fun and complementary and thoughtful. One of the biggest things I admire about Jessica, though, is her strong and determined faith. She thinks deep thoughts about spiritual things. She asks questions and wants to know what she believes and why. She is concerned about the lost and unreached people in the world.

Before too long Jessica will make her college decision. She will finish her senior year as captain of the basketball team and President of the Student Council. She will collect her awards, go on her senior trip, and graduate from high school. Most likely, she will work at camp again this summer. I'm not rushing it - believe me, I would love to slow.down.time. It could go at a turtle's pace and I would be happy. But, the reality is, that this precious girl will leave the nest and pursue what God has for her. I'm happy about that. Really, I am. I just can't imagine life without her here. She lights up our home.

So, happy 18th birthday, Jessica! May God pour out His richest blessings on you! You are an absolute joy in my life. I love you!

Jesssica's mom, Jeanette

Happy Belated Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T16:18:00.000-06:00

It's Sunday afternoon following Thanksgiving. We took our annual extended family Thanksgiving camping trip this past week. Our favorite spot is Tyler State Park and we returned there this year. It was a glorious week. The first three days were warm - I started to type "unseasonalby warm" but, in Texas, it can be warm just about any day of the year - and then on Thursday, Thanksgiving day, Johnny and I started out on a jog in the woods with our dog. It had been sprinkling a little on and off all morning and we had the airconditioner on in the Wildwood. It started sprinkling but we thought it might stop so we kept going. Mistake...big mistake. Instead of stopping sprinkling it started raining and the wind picked up - we could feel the temperature dropping as we headed back to our campsite. The wind blew the multi-colored leaves onto the path ahead of us and it was incredible. Beautiful. By lunch-time (and we ate outside anyway) it was down-right cold. And raining and wet and miserable. But, all in all, it was a fun camping trip and I am thankful for the chance to go.

I am thankful for a good many things this year. Really, I have much to be grateful for. After spending days in the Andes Mountains of Peru and in India, I recognize that I am abundantly blessed. I am thankful for health and love and family and church and friends and freedom and God and abundant life. I am so grateful for my comfortable home and my home away from home, the Wildwood. I am extra thankful for my comfy bed after my 2 recent trips overseas as well as the yummy food we have here. I am thankful for the ability to worship and hear God speak through His Word into my life.

Hope you had a great holiday - it's back to reality tomorrow!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

The Unexpected Testimony

2010-11-13T04:33:00.000-06:00

It's the last day in India -- well, except for a few hours I will spend in an airport in Delhi tomorrow. By this time tomorrow I will have, at least, started on my journey back to America. I am totally ready to head back and I can't wait to see my family. This has been a hard trip for a number of reasons. I got the biggest blessing of the whole trip at the women's conference yesterday. Halfway through the conference, a blind girl sang a song then a couple of women gave a testimony. The first was a pastor's wife here in India and the other was a lady who lives in the city. She started sharing about how God had been working in her life -- she, of course, was speaking in Hindi so I had to wait for the interpreter to say each phrase in English -- and then she talked about something I said about my grandmother at the women's conference TWO YEARS AGO. First of all, wow, she remembered that from 2 years ago. Second of all, since that time my grandmother has died and so that made it extra precious to me. My translator was sitting down the row for me and she leaned forward to catch my eye to make sure I realized that the lady giving the testimony was talking about something I taught about 2 years ago. The lady said a little more about what I taught about and how she applied it to her own life. I was sitting there trying to compose myself because it was my turn when her testimony was over. The main point of the whole thing was about how God gives all of us different gifts, talents, and abilities and He uses us in different ways according to the ways He has gifted us.

So, here's the deal - we never know whose life we might impact, when we might really make a difference in somebody's life. Sometimes we will get the unexpected privilege to actually find it out and sometimes, maybe often times, we will never know. All we can do is to be faithful to obey to go and do what God has called us to go and do.

In the end, I am so thankful that I got to hear that testimony and I was blessed abundantly more than anyone else in that room yesterday! This lady's son is a translator in the medical camp this week and he came up to me this afternoon and told me his mom was the one who gave the testimony. I was so glad I got to talk to him and tell him how much it meant to me (he speaks great English, btw) since I didn't get to talk to his momma yesterday.

I'm heading home tomorrow and I can't wait to see my family! As always when I return from India, I have a new appreciation for all the material things God has given me and my family. And, I will be so thankful to not hear honking horns, to eat beef (I am a Texan, afterall), to put ice in a nice glass of sweet tea, and to sleep in my own comfy bed! I will be glad to not have to put on a long skirt, to not be drenched in sweat, and to not have to drive one hour each way to the conference center in terrifying traffic. I will be glad to celebrate thanksgiving with my family and extended family - I will feel even more grateful for that delicious turkey my brother will fry, the dressing my mom will make, and the freedom to worship without fear of persecution. And, a special, unexpected testimony will continue to encourage me, I am sure, for weeks and weeks to come.

Serving the King in India,

Jeanette

Respect, or Lack of It

2010-11-04T08:27:00.000-06:00

I typed a simple but true statement on my fb yesterday: I'll be in India the same time as the President. We won't be in the same city and, obviously, not in the same hotel since they've booked their entire place for security reasons. Your tax dollars hard at work, people. I got some replies and after Jessica got home from school (and posted a reply as well, btw) she commented that I was getting some interest in my status. She happened to be writing a paper for her dual-credit English class which she titled "A Certain Decline" and that led us to a conversation about respect and whether or not I should delete my status, make my own comment to it, or do nothing. The paper is about the decline of respect for authority in our country. I'm not saying that any of the comments posted on fb were showing a lack of respect - I'm just writing my thoughts following a conversation I had with my daughter.

I think respect has become one of those words that has lost some of its value because we throw it around so much. It's like love - we love macaroni and cheese, we love our Texas Rangers, we love our spouse and children. But, really, we love God. There are people who think they deserve respect just because they are breathing but they haven't necessarily done anything to earn respect. There are people who think you must respect them and those they agree with but fail to show respect for others. It's all a one-way street for some people.

Take, for instance, the liberal media. Watching MSNBC or the tv show The View is like watching the movie Mean Girls. Granted, I don't watch either but I've seen clips on my only source for the news, FoxNews. But, by all means, according to those people, don't say anything negative about our current president. If you do, you might be labeled a racist or ignorant or something similar.

Here's what I believe, I don't have to agree with the political views of any elected official. I don't have to agree with my pastor or the local police department. But, these people have done something to earn respect and it is my duty to show respect to the office each holds. We can't just respect people in authority when we agree with them. I guess that is why I bawled like a baby (ok, that might be an exaggeration but those of you who know me know I cry at the drop of a hat) when the former Presidents Bush came at to throw out the first pitch at the World Series the other night at the Ballpark in Arlington. I loved it, loved it (yes, I am using the love word and I mean it) that they got such a great welcome. And, as I noted on my fb status, George W Bush rocked it - he totally threw a strike to Nolan Ryan at home plate! Those that insist we be tolerant and show respect to some didn't, and continue to not, show respect to our former president and anyone else in authority that they happen to not agree with.

So, Jessica and I decided that I should quote some Scripture as a comment to my own fb status. We took parts of verses from Romans 13. I didn't do it as a rebuke to anyone who posted on my status but as a reminder to myself of my own obligation to live the way in which Christ instructs me to live. Sometimes that is really hard. My next fb status was a quote from Jessica, "Always end with Scripture. It trumps every argument."

You know, if we - believers and followers of Jesus - really lived what we say we believe, lived our lives according to Scripture, I wonder what the world would look like. Would we be more loving, more caring, more forgiving, more respecting? Would we be so busy going and making disciples that some of the petty stuff we get hung up with wouldn't even matter? Would we be more concerned with modeling respectful living to our children than getting the last word in or voicing our distaste with everything that irritates us?

I don't know about you but I needed a gut-check on this one. Like our pastor always says, "If you can't say amen, say ouch!" I'm saying both today.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Study Time

2010-11-02T10:09:00.000-06:00

It seems a natural thing to me that our women's conference in India this year would be from the book of Matthew. I have spent so much time over the past couple of years studying it that I have about a 1,000 lessons that I could potentially teach from that gospel. Ok, I am exaggerating just a bit but, really, I have learned so much from the book and I'm excited to share it in another venue. (Even though I am completely wrapped up in Judges right now getting ready for Fusion in January - this year Johnny and I plan to teach a co-ed class together!) Just this morning I have had to adjust our conference speakers and topics a little bit and that's a tiny bit stressful but I feel confident that it's going to work out and I am praying God's blessings on the women we will encounter.

My challenge today is to finish up my own outlines. It's really hard for me to stay focused on this one activity because (1) it's election day & I want to listen to the news - it's a BIG election day; (2) Jessica is home sick and she's filling out residence forms for college so I've had to dig out shot records & health insurance info and help answer questions; (3) I still have errands to run, laundry to do, packing to think about and that distracts me; (4) Jacob got his driver's permit today. Ok, that last one is not distracting me from study. It's just what's going on today so I thought I would include it. Jacob is, afterall, the last to start driving and it's kind of a big deal. We've been doing the home taught driver's ed and he's had to read and listen to me and take practice tests. He already thought that was a lot of trouble. When I told him this morning we still had about 26 hours of classroom time plus the driving time he was irritated - he thought we already finished the teaching part...hahahahaha...boy, is he gonna hate the hours and hours we have left to do.

Back to work for me....

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Love, Sweet Love

2010-10-30T09:32:00.000-05:00

I pulled my coffee mug that I bought at Refugio in Peru last month down from the cabinet and filled it with delicious Starbucks coffee my husband made for me before he left to go coach his Upward team this morning. I was heading for my home office when I heard my cellphone, that ringtone I get when someone is sending me a text message. It was a friend sending me something she read in her Bible study this morning. It was obviously from whatever Bible study material she is using and I don't know the author but here it is, "Genuine love is a love for others that finds its source in your desire to love God even more." That so reminds me of what the Apostle John wrote in his epistle 1 John. In 5 chapters he used the word love more than 30 times. He wrote things like: don't love the world or things in the world, love God; don't just say you love - DO love; love one another because love is from God; God revealed His love in His Son, Jesus.

I am thinking hard on that this morning because I leave one week from today for India. I readily admit that I am reluctant to go. It will be my 4th time in India and it's a hard place to go. The trip over is near torture, it's always hot and dirty, you have to be careful about every single thing you eat and drink, getting back and readjusting to life in Mansfield is always physically hard on me for some reason. And, it seems like I just got back from overseas and it is senior year, by the way.

However, I do think that my growing (and I hope my status is always growing) relationship with God compels me to go where I do not necessarily want to go. My love of the people of India or my ability to go there is not something that comes from my natural woman. I was listening to David Platt, author of the book Radical, preach on the internet and he said, "Can I believe in the gospel and turn a deaf ear to the unreached and starving in the world?" If I know for sure that I can do something then I must do it, I am compelled to do it.

So, it is my love for God that calls me to love others and to serve others whenever and however I can. But, that love is not something that I thought up or made up myself. It is because God first loved me, He first loved me. His expression of love was to send His Son Jesus so that we might know Him. First we know, then we do - the source, inspiration, and power is Love, sweet Love.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Trying to Stay Focused

2010-10-28T10:13:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have so many projects going on or deadlines looming that it's hard to stay focused on just one at a time? I'm there, baby. I can't sleep at night because I can't turn my brain off which makes the next day harder because, like I've always said, I need my beauty sleep and it's not my outward beauty I'm talking about! And, with all the excitement with the Texas Rangers in the World Series, well, it's almost too much! Oh, I'm just being dramatic and a bit silly. I am leaving for India in a week and 2 days and so it seems like I have a lot to accomplish before my departure date gets here. I put way more pressure on myself than I should or need to. I think it's just a bit humorous, too, that all those years when I was taking care of my little kids and I dreamed of the day when I would have grown-up things to do that I thought it would be great. Those days seemed hard at the time - changing diapers and chasing toddlers was not my favorite season of life. If I could freeze time I would keep my kids the age they are now forever. I LOVE the teenage years. Well, the college boy is not a teen but he's at a really great place in life. Yes, teenagers bring challenges at times but life is great. I love every project that I am working on and feel so blessed to be here. Really. God has been over-abundantly good. He has knocked my socks off and stretched me and caused me to rely on Him in new ways.

Well, this is a really random, rambling post and really has no purpose except to provide a second of a break from a full day. I've got a sick kid home and I can hear him watching one of those shows where the person has to sing a song and they are not given all the lyrics. It's cracking me up! So, back to work for me...

Have a fabulicious day!

Jeanette

History and Warning Signs

2010-10-25T10:21:00.000-05:00

I really like history. It fascinates me and captures my attention. Sometimes it sidetracks me in my Bible study because I am looking up how whatever I am studying intersects with history and culture of the time period in which it was written. So, right now I am simultaneously reading Flyboys by James Bradley and a biogaphy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer by Eric Metaxas. Where I am currently reading in each book is in the years leading up to World War II. It's really interesting to read what was going on in 2 different parts of the world and how those events intersected to become something that affected the entire world.

I think I sat down to write this post about the amazing information that I've recently read in each book about ostracities nations committed against other nations, people committed against people. I mean, horrendous things and things that don't make sense to me. And, in many instances, there seemed to be warning signs that were ignored. There were voices crying out that danger was ahead and many times those voices were ignored. I wonder how such things could happen or how people could be so evil, so uncaring, so lost.

Then, I thought better or it. Would you want to read paragraph after paragraph of quotes from books that were interesting to me? Would you wonder where in the world my thought process was going? Would you even still be reading to this point?

I know in my own life there have been times when I've ignored warning signs or even people trying to warn me of danger ahead. I've totally missed the chance to change my direction before it was too late. Yeah, I've been there. I'm studying the Old Testament book of Judges right now and it's a time in Israel's history when they blew it over and over again. They ignored the law and the warning signs and got in trouble but then cried out to God. He sent them relief and they walked in obedience for a while and then fell back into their old pattern of behavior. Going their own way, doing their own thing, not caring, lost, even evil.

Are there any warning signs you're ignoring? Do you know what's right but simply are not choosing right? I know this is random and I don't know if anyone reading this needs it but ...STOP! (this is your warning sign)

We can learn a lot from our own personal history, those places we failed before. But, we don't have to go there again, we don't. I love it that God's mercies are new every morning. He is our strength and our refuge (check out Psalm 62) for every new day. It's a choice we make on our own - we are making our own history and our own legacy for our families and for those whose lives we impact. What if someone was writing your biography? What would you want that biography to say about you? Are you doing today what you want to be written about you? If not, then get to it.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Is it ever ok to tell a lie?

2010-10-14T09:39:00.000-05:00

I asked the above question to my Life Group this past Sunday. We had a lesson about sin and I was just using the question to make reference to the moral ambiguity and relativism in our culture. Little did I know that there would be such a discussion on what I thought was a fairly simple question. I have a little saying (well, we have lots of sayings at our house actually) that I use - there's black and white and there is no gray. It has hand motions that go with it so you aren't getting the full effect of the saying here. But, I am, by nature, a rule follower. I see black and white. Gray is not an option for me. Other people in my house, not mentioning any names, see gray. To them, gray is ok. I cannot relate to gray. (Although recently I purchased 2 new gray sweaters. Why would one need 2 gray sweaters? It seems a little overboard for me except one is shortsleeve and one is long which has nothing to do with today's post.)

So, what do you think - is it ever ok to tell a lie? One person commented that it is ok to lie to save a life. One person said it is ok to lie so as not to hurt another's feelings. "Oh, yeah, those shoes look fine with that outfit," and secretly thinking you should call the fashion police. Help a sister out, tell the truth!!

I was reading the story of Samson and Delilah from the 16th chapter of Judges today. Delilah asked Samson the secret to his great strength. The first time she asked, he told her a lie. But, the lie saved his life. Did that make the lie ok? And, what was it about Samson's relationship with Delilah that was all wrong to begin with that put him in a position where he needed to lie?

Sometimes we get ourselves into messes that are hard to get out of. Where we go and what we do is so important. We must guard our steps and guard our hearts. God wants us to have the life that is abundant (John 10:10) not one filled with lies and deception. His plan is so much greater than that!

Which brings me to the next question, why do we think there's a difference between a little white lie and telling big lie? Or is there a difference?

Just wondering...

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Fall is Finally Here in North Texas

2010-10-07T16:33:00.000-05:00

I'm just taking a short little break this afternoon and sitting on the couch watching a little Texas Rangers baseball. (yes, Kathy, go Rangers! and, no, she didn't get homecoming queen - thanks for asking!) We are up 6-0 in the 7th inning with 1 out. Yes, those Rangers won yesterday and maybe it's a little too early to hope for a sweep...

I've been working all day on the women's conference in India. I always feel a little stressed about it. The culture and lifestyle varies so much from what we experience here at home. Yet, God's Word is still truth and is timeless and fits into any culture. (2 outs and Jacob wants to try some homemade broccoli soup I made for his snack today!)

The weather is pretty close to perfect right now. The temps are really nice. (3 outs, 8th inning and Jacob said the soup is actually really good) I sorted my clothes the other day and pulled out my sweaters and put my tank tops and summer clothes in the top of my closet. It's fun to do that because it seems like I have all new clothes - not really new, I just haven't seen them in a few months. Of course, I didn't put up all the hot weather clothes because it will still be stinking hot in India in November!

Well, break is over. I know, already, right? (bottom of the 8th, 2 outs - go Rangers!!)

Serving the King,

Jeanette

(end of 8th, no score change)

Taking a Breath

2010-10-02T16:00:00.000-05:00

I arrived home late, late Monday night (after plane trouble & delay in Miami) and hit the ground running Tuesday morning. It's almost 4 pm on Saturday and I feel like it's the first time I have taken it easy since arriving home. I'm not really complaining, that's what mommas do. I finally finished my LifeWay writing assignment and emailed it off to my editor. Yes, yes, I procrastinated and still had work to do after I got home from Peru. I often say that late is the story of my life. It's done, though. Well, except the part that is due November 1st. Don't worry, I will safely have it done by October 31st!

It's homecoming weekend for our high school. I received an email while in Lima telling me that Jessica would be in the queen's court and a nominee for homecoming queen. It was fun for Johnny to walk her out on the field last night at the game. Tonight is the homecoming celebration (what the private school calls a dance). Since Jessica is President of the Student Council we had some decorations to get together today and I made brownies. Then there's Jacob. He didn't come home last night but stayed at a friend's house. He called a little bit ago and asked me to bring him clothes for the party. Picking out a shirt for Jacob over the phone proved to be a frustrating task. I finally got off the phone with him and asked Jessica what he should wear. She picked a few things and Johnny has gone to let him see which one he wants to wear. I got his drivers' ed packet in the mail the other day...needless to say, I'm ready for him to be driving. Then he can take care of picking his own shirt!

Well, I think I'll go watch some college football. I missed it the last 2 weekends. My Baylor Bears killed Kansas today and right now OU is ahead in the big Red River rivalry.

I'm just glad to say, I'm home, sweet home!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Last Day in Peru

2010-09-26T09:28:00.000-05:00

By this time tomorrow, at least according to my itinerary, I will be on my way back home to Mansfield, Texas, in the USA. Truly, the greatest place to live! I am more thankful every time I set foot on foreign soil that my home is in Texas. Even more than that, my citizenship is in heaven and my rests in that fact!

What a week I have had since the last time I posted. The trip up into the Andes was quite an experience. The village where we stayed was at about 10,200 - 10,400 feet. The road up is not paved but a gravel road winding up the mountain. The people live in adobe houses, for the most part. The place where we stayed - the girls' room was a storage room (I am not exaggerating!) - had a tin roof and you could see daylight between the walls and the roof. Yes, it was mighty cold at night! I didn't sleep well at all on my air mattress and in my sleeping bag. Particularly the night we were awaken by an EARTHQUAKE! For real! It scared me but not so much that I got out of my warm bed!

The people in the village were extremely friendly and open. They live in harsh conditions and in a way that is hard to imagine. We played with some children every afternoon - pato, pato, gonzo or, duck, duck, goose to English speakers! Our translator was also able to tell a Bible story and we tried some songs as well.

Well, it's time to go to Starbucks so I'll be back later! Yeah, Starbucks in Peru!! ha!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

First Day in Peru

2010-09-18T15:12:00.000-05:00

We arrived last night here in Peru. We are staying in a suburb of Lima called Miraflores. It's like a city of its own with tall buildings. There's Chilis, TGIF, Tony Romas, and Starbucks within walking distance of our hotel. We will be here one more night before he head up into the Andes Mtns. Today we have been prepping for tomorrow. We had to go to a grocery this morning - that was quite an experience! Because I am with people who have been here a few times before they know all good places to eat. We had a very delicious lunch at a place called San Antonios. I had a sandwich called Madia Luna (half moon!) that was piled with cheese and meat, and, get this, a boiled egg. I know, I know, it sounds odd but it was oddly delicious!

The rest of the day, I think, will be spent packing up stuff to go and in team meetings.

Gotta run! Jeanette

Almost Game Time

2010-09-17T04:51:00.000-05:00

Ok, not a game, but I am leaving for the airport in under 4 hours and, per the norm for me, I cannot sleep. I was wide awake at 2:45 am realizing that I forgot to ask my daughter how to get on Skype on my notebook. I checked out some reviews on our hotel while we are in Lima and, apparently, there is internet access so I am glad about that. For the days we are up in the mountains, however, there will not be any communication with the outside world.

I wish I had brushed up on my Spanish skills. While I was in Venezuela a few years ago I learned - cafe con leche, por favor. What else does one need? And, apparently, there's Starbucks not too far from the hotel!

For real, I can't think of anything else to type. I should try to sleep for the hour and 45 minutes until my alarm goes off. If you read this in the next 10 days, pray for us. Pray for the people we will encounter in Peru to be open to hearing and receiving the Gospel message. And, pray for my family while I am away. Thanks so much for your faithfulness to pray!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

An Anniversary

2010-09-15T13:09:00.000-05:00

One year ago today my grandmother, Great Granny to my kids, went to be with Jesus. She was ready. She wanted to go. A few weeks before she went to her eternal home I spent a few hours with her in the hospice care room where she spent the last weeks of her earthly life. She was not conscious at all while I was there. In fact, I stayed with her because my mom and her siblings were making funeral arrangements and they did not want her to be alone. Whether she was aware of my presence or not, it was a great blessing to me. I talked to her and reminisced about all the great times I had with her. I'm thinking about her today.

One thing about my life and heritage is that I had some godly grandparents. They were all active and involved in their churches and modeled Christian behavior and lifestyle before me, my brothers, and my cousins. I am amazed at how I have seen my cousins - on both sides of my family - follow in those footsteps. I am particularly amazed since I am flying to Peru in 2 days and I have been corresponding via facebook with my cousin's daughter. This young women (freshly graduated from DBU) is now living in Peru and working in an orphanage. She knew she would be a missionary from the time she was a little girl. Her mom, my cousin, is also on her way to Peru the same day I am - although we are not on the same flight, darn it!

So, hey, if you haven't told a grandparent today that you love 'em - go do it! Make sure they know how they have been a blessing in your life!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Total Silence

2010-09-14T09:17:00.000-05:00

My house is completely quiet this morning. I don't hear a single thing. Our neighbor has been putting a pool in and not only has it made my dog completely frantic but it hasn't been quiet for weeks. Johnny is out-of-town at his LifeWay trustee meeting and the kids, of course, are at school. And there's quiet, sweet quiet.

I am leaving in 3 days for Peru. I covet your prayers for me and the rest of the folks going on our trip. We will fly into Lima and then head up into the Andes Mountains to do evangelism and discipleship. I'm not sure where we are going and, more importantly, where we will be staying once up in the mountains. Can I just let you know that I am packing a sleeping bag and an air mattress? And hiking boots. Yeah, you know I like camping but I don't usually do that on a mission trip!

Meanwhile, Jessica got her 1st college acceptance letter yesterday. Yes, I did tear up. Yes, I did tell her she could stay home for one more year - not at all meaning it seriously or thinking she would take me up on it! I'm so proud of her and am waiting patiently to see where God leads her to go to school next year. Though Johnny and I are hoping for one particular university where her brother attends and that is not too far from home, I really feel confident that Jess will follow God's leadership. And I'll be cool with that!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Stormy Weather

2010-09-08T10:01:00.000-05:00

Well, it seems we are experiencing the effects of Tropical Storm Hermine here in North Texas. Yes, the automated weather alert woke us up with a phone call around 4:45 am or so and I was unable to go back to sleep. The early morning wake-up call and the dreary weather may necessitate a nap for me this afternoon. Not that I have time for napping, mind you, as I am leaving for Peru in a week and 2 days and I still have work to do before I can go.

The wind is whipping around outside and the pool is overflowing. Water is flooding the street and the neighbor's preschool daughter was out playing in the water for a while. Oh, the days when my kids loved to play out in the rain... Actually, they might still like to but it is a school day, after all.

The thing about storms is that they are temporary. Sometimes it takes a while to get over them and the damage they may have caused but, eventually, the sun will come out and everything will be all right. I like the assurance that the One who made the Creation is not surprised by Tropical Storm Hermine anymore than He is surprised by emotional or relational storms. He is still in control when circumstances around us dare to make us wonder. I like that I can count on Him and know that He is faithful.

Even in the storm.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

2010-09-04T11:46:00.000-05:00

What a gloriously cool, lazy, quiet Saturday morning around our house. I've had an amazing and interesting week. Johnny put our travel trailer, the Wildwood, out at the lake so I could enjoy the great outdoors and get some work done on my writing assignment. For those that know us, know we love, love camping. Put my travel trailer just about anywhere and I am happy. I had the campground almost to myself for the first part of the week. Then the holiday campers started moving in and we moved out. For the better part of 3 days I enjoyed solitude and nature and being free of distractions - you know, those pesky things like laundry, house cleaning, the phone ringing, work...

I like the sound of God's voice in nature. No, I didn't hear Him speak to me audibly this week but I know He speaks through His creation. Romans 1:20 - "From the creation of the world His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what He has made." The sound of leaves blowing in the wind - is that the sound of the creation applauding the Creator? I imagine that it is. Isaiah 55:12 (in part) - "and all the tress of the field will clap their hands."

And then back to reality and routine. Which, for us in the great state of Texas, means Friday night high school football. Jessica is one of the new mascots for our school and it was the first night out for the new mascot costume. (is that what one would call the mascot get-up? LOL) Our team won. And today - laundry and cleaning and yard work. But, Monday is a holiday - woohoo, we could already use a break after only 2 weeks of school! I hope you have big plans to enjoy the day!

Serving the King,

Jeanettte

Back to School Dinner

2010-08-25T11:23:00.000-05:00

This marks the first time I have taken a photo with my cell phone and sent it from my phone to myself and actually posted it to a blog. I am just becoming more and more techie all the time. HAHAHA!!

Ok, with that out of the way, the above photo was taken last night after our traditional back-to-school dinner. We had to move to the 2nd day of school because Johnny is coaching an Upward football team and he had practice Monday night. But, we had all 3 kids with us so it was a bonus! Yes, the college boy will still meet us for free food!

It was a great night! We had a nice dinner and great conversation. Yes, we laughed hysterically at Jacob, as usual. I am not kidding, he is a funny, funny kid. We (Johnny and I) talked about our hopes and dreams for our kids for the year and our plan to challenge them this year. I am looking forward to a great year! We want to celebrate with our kids and support them, but also to never stop challenging them to do their best and be their best. And, to never stop following God or seeking Him to be the guide and power in their lives.

I hope you and your kids have had a great 1st few days of school!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

First Day of School

2010-08-23T09:44:00.000-05:00

First day of school, again. The house is unbelievably quiet except for the noise from the pool construction next door. Josh got settled in at DBU over the weekend. Our niece is also a freshman at DBU this year. She surprised us by coming to our church yesterday with 3 of her new friends. We couldn't miss an opportunity to have them with us so we invited them all to lunch at our house. Josh was here - he's still an intern for our student pastor so we'll have him home every Sunday and Wednesday! (yea for us!) It was so fun to have a table full of students!

Jacob got out the door earlier than Jess - she has first block off for the senior year. He was ready to go. Well, as ready as a 15 year old can be when it comes to going back to school. I made his breakfast & his lunch -- yes, I still do that. I will never get tired of doing that. It's what I do.

Jessica came down, ready to start her senior year. I didn't cry! haha! I remember all those times when the kids were little and I wasn't allowed to go with them to the first day of school. Johnny always took them so I wouldn't embarrass them by crying in the building the first day. Come to think of it, I feel a little teary just now. It helps that our new school is one mile from our house and Jess and a friend are coming HOME for lunch today. Yes, I will fix some lunch for them. It's what I do. I'm the mama!

So, everyone is off and started on their first day. Johnny already talked to Josh this morning and he was headed to a delicious cafeteria breakfast and then to class. I guess I'll go get on with my day and get off this computer. I've got to hit the 30-Day Shred and then to serious work on my LifeWay project.

Happy First Day of School everyone!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Heavy Day

2010-08-18T19:05:00.000-05:00

I told myself I would not cry but, sure enough, I couldn't hold the tears back. Jessica's bestest friend spent the night last night and in the morning she leaves for college. Then we got some heavy news about a friend. It's one of those times when I just don't know what to do. I really have no idea. I'll pray, of course, but the rest is out of my hands.

My longing is to shelter those that I love. My desire is to keep them safe and trouble free. That's not practical and certainly does not line up with Scripture. I long for that day of no more tears, no more mourning or sorrow. Until that day, however, my hope rests in the One who is coming on that white horse. He is called Faithful and True. I believe in that. Some days I don't know how I could take one more breath if I didn't.

Just a couple more days and Josh will be gone. Again. School will start and we'll be in a routine. We'll go to the last 1st day of high school for Jessica and the senior breakfast and, with that, all the senior things will start. The last girls' basketball season and the last year of living at home. For Jessica, that is. We'll still have Jacob at home - I'm sure he will keep us in stitches, he is such a funny kid.

So, we'll have a busy few days - the school supply lists were sent home last night from Open House. Ugh, I dread rumaging through trying to find just the right notebook or folders or whatever else the teachers have so diligently put on those lists. I'm a rule follower so everything will have to be just right. I might just drive my kids a little crazy - they'll find a substitute and say it's fine and I'll be manic about getting the exact item requested.

I'm dreading it already.

Well, after this light-hearted and uplifting post (not!) I think I'll just sign off...

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2010-08-15T17:24:00.000-05:00

Sunday is most definitely my favorite day of the week. We are church people around here and we love to gather with, well, the church. There's nothing like small group Bible study with people that make you feel good and safe and comfortable and just plain joyful. Then there's corporate worship and listening to the Word brought with clarity and conviction...

...followed by an easy, home-cooked lunch with family and friends and then, ahhhh, the Sunday afternoon nap. Prescription for a PERFECT day.

Except for the fact that it's over 100 again today for the I-don't-know-how-many days. A lot. It is stinkin' hot in North Texas, that's for sure!

School starts back one week from tomorrow. Josh moves back to college this coming Saturday. This has been an absolutely great summer. In some ways I am ready for routine that comes with school and in some ways I want to scream NOOOO! No, I don't want it to end!

The big news of the summer is that Josh and Jessica have both said this summer that they feel like God is calling them into Christian ministry/vocation. Wow! The proudness that I feel is indescribable. Yeah, I know that life in ministry is not always easy and, sometimes, is really hard. But, that they would commit their lives to do the work of ministry is overwhelming to me. It's all a God-thing but I cannot help but feel that I did something right along the way.

Josh and Jacob and their band are playing tonight in evening worship. Even though they have been playing together only a few weeks they are good. I'm not just biased, either. I promise! hahahaha....

Well, I better go change - I don't think I'll wear my Georgia Bulldog shorts to church tonight. Don't worry, my church doesn't put any expectations on this pastor's wife, but Georgia Bulldog shorts are for home wear only!

hahahaha....

Serving the King,

Jeanette

What I Am Up To...

2010-08-10T08:35:00.001-05:00

...since I last blogged which was forever ago. Lots & lots has gone on and in 2 weeks when the kids go back to school I hope to process it all. Don't think I'm hurrying it to be here though. Not.at.all. The college boy will move back to his campus and the daughter will be a SENIOR. It's gonna be a big year, that's for sure. In the meantime, here's a little bit of what I am up to right now...

What I am listening to - Passion Awakening & Hillsong United We Stand

What I am reading - Under the Overpass by Mike Yankoski
What Difference Do It Make - by Hall, Moore, & Vincent (still)
The Cost of Discipleship - by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (still)

I also purchased a 542-page biography on the life of Bonhoeffer not too long ago. Johnny laughed at me. I recently read Broken by William Cope Moyers, a book about addiction. I just realized I am reading 2 books that have to do with homelessness...

What I am enjoying eating - not much, since I am now on a self-designed diet and exercise program to ready myself for the trip to Peru. I did go to Fuzzy's Taco last night with the pastors' wives (and it was a great time) and splurged just a bit. I just had to run a little harder this morning, which brings me to my next category -

What I am enjoying doing - running - I finally found my like of running again, reading, the pool, and family time

Alright, that's me. Anybody reading any good books lately?

Enjoy the last days of summer!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

My Poor Neglected Blog

2010-07-19T11:17:00.000-05:00

Johnny told me the other day that my blog has been neglected. Poor little thing! Needless to say, it has been quite a busy summer! Johnny and I are headed out-of-town this weekend for a couple of days with some friends but other than that, all the excitement and traveling of the summer is pretty much over. Jessica and Jacob are both working this morning and it's quiet around the house. Oh yeah, and I'm working, even though it looks like I'm blogging...I'm just taking a short break!

I wanted to add a few pictures from our recent mission trip to Laredo. Wow, what a week! We had a group building a playground... (BTW, the are soaking wet because they worked the last day in the pouring down rain. But, we praised the Lord for the rain because it made for cooler temperatures!)

We had a group working at a soccer camp in the mornings...

(That's my Jacob with a group of kids at camp)

We had two groups doing morning VBS at two different locations. We then took the VBS to the park for 2 nights and had sports, crafts, & a Bible story. Tons of families came out to the park in the evenings!

It really was a great week. My boys played (Josh - bass & Jacob on the drums) at a church on Wednesday night as well as at a block party on the last night we were there. The block party was the same night as flooding rain hit Laredo. The border between the US and Mexico expanded a bit while we were there. My Jessica told the story at VBS one day with an interpreter. It was her first time to speak with an interpreter but she did great. She said it was a little hard to remember to pause & let the interpreter go, a fact that I know all too well. It was such a privilege for me to be on mission with my kids and to see them in action. In fact, not just the kids that I birthed but all the students we took down there did a fabulously wonderful job. For real, there was no complaining, no fussing, NO DRAMA, and, believe me, we asked a lot of those kids and adults. We got a lot of hard work and the joy of seeing people saved and, hopefully, lives changed.

I've got some other big news from our family but I can't stick it here at the end of this blog so I'll be back (hopefully) real soon to write all about what God is doing in our family!

Until then, stay cool - man, we are having some hot days here in North Texas!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Gifted by the Spirit

2010-07-02T09:55:00.000-05:00

I love that the church has arms and legs and eyes and ears and we're not all a bunch of hands just stuck together and hanging on Jesus Christ, the Head of the church. I am particularly thankful for that today and I think my friend Pam is awesome. She is a pro at teaching kids and loving kids and giving of herself to others. She was a tremendous help to me yesterday as we did our final collection of materials for our mission trip. Actually, she helped me by telling me what to do - I love that! We've been in Bible study together and our kids are similar ages so I know her heart but I rarely get over to the children's building so I think yesterday was the first time I've seen her in action. Amazing, really! (And, I'm typing this because she doesn't read my blog so she won't know...)

The main reason I'm here this morning is because I'm amazed at how God puts people together. He really did knit us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13) and made us individually unique. We were given talents and the ability to do all sorts of things. We were given different personalities - some are shy, like me, and some are more outgoing, like my husband and daughter. But, when we become believers and followers of Jesus, we are given gifts by the Holy Spirit. Those gifts, as well as our talents, are to be used for the benefit of the body, the church.

How that works in practice is so beautifully displayed every week as we gather at the property we call our "church" knowing full well that the church is the people, not the buildings. It is also really cool to see how that works when we are on mission. When we step away from that property and from those buildings that are like home to us and reach out to others. I have a chance to do that in just a few days. I'm excited and a tiny bit apprehensive. I'm believing, however, that God goes before us and all that we do is to His glory and not our own.

If you think about it over the next week, will you pray for our mission group as we head back down to Laredo? We covet your prayers on our behalf as well as on the behalf of those we will serve!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Bible Study Tonight!

2010-06-29T16:02:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited that I have a Bible study group coming to my house tonight. I follow Beth Moore's blog and she suggested a summer Bible study and I took the bait. I decided to make a fb group and invite my fb friends. I've been cleaning and thought I'd sit down for a minute while strawberry cupcakes bake in the oven.

I opened up my Life Group curriculum to take a look at this Sunday's lesson this morning. The title of the lesson is "Facing Obstacles: Paul's Journey to Rome." I started thinking about personal obstacles. I don't know about you, but I've got some of those! What would you say recent obstacles have been in your life? Since this Sunday is the 4th of July, the day we celebrate America's independence, I did a little research this morning on obstacles to birthing this nation. Yeah, talk about major obstacles! Yet, those early colonists and settlers persevered and kept looking toward the goal, the prize.

Sometimes I feel like my life is more like "Wipeout." Have you seen that game show? It's really rather hilarious in a sick sort of way. It's about people competing on obstacle courses. Most often, they get knocked right off the course and land in mud or water. Sometimes they get back on the course and sometimes they just swim through the muck to get to the end. Rarely is getting off-course a pleasant short-cut.

Like our pastor said last Sunday, I don't like slow. I also don't like when things don't go the way I've planned. Oh, I know, that sounds a little spoiled. I just envision in my mind the way things are supposed to happen and when they don't go that way it throws me off. I really don't like it when obstacles pop up. But, who does?

I must admit I've had a few pleasant obstacles lately (along with the other kind) and I'm thankful for it all. Through all of it I see God's hand at work and I am glad for how He continues to work, whether it's what I expected or not.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Vacation check-in #2

2010-06-20T17:13:00.000-05:00

It's Sunday afternoon on Lake Hartwell in Georgia. Johnny has taken the kids out on the boat but I'm relaxing. We are having some well-deserved rest after 4 days at amusement parks. We were feeling especially brave and decided to wait in a ridiculous line to get into the Wizardly World of Harry Potter on opening day. I must say, though I am not particularly a Harry Potter fan, it was impressive. The ride inside Hogwarts was amazing.

We love it here at the lake. Jessica's fb status the day we arrived said time seems to move slower here - or something like that. I think we just stop moving so fast. There's no deadline or timeline or agenda. I sat out on the back porch this morning, looking into the pine trees and out over the lake, and read from the book of Judges. Although I am anticipating a group study that starts in a couple of weeks, I am in-between studies right now. So, I've been reading through the book of Judges. I've been doing that off and on for a few weeks. I love the part of the book when the Angel of the Lord comes to Gideon and calls him "mighty warrior." Gideon wasn't feeling too much like a mighty warrior -- more like a fraidy cat. I can so relate to that. Gideon was told to go in the strength that he had. It was strength that God had already given him. And, he had the promise that God would go with him and protect him.

Sometimes I need reminders of what's already been given me and the promises that have been made. I don't always feel strong or confident or able to accomplish what God has called me to do. That's what is so great about vacation. It is a time to rest and reflect and refresh. A time to contemplate what God has already done and what He's already said He will do. It's easier to go on in the strength that He's provided when there's a time of renewal. So, in about a day and a half we'll start for home. Where our responsibilities and agendas and deadlines await. Where we are called on to give and do and go. But, by then, we'll be ready.

Thank you, Lord, for vacation!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Vacation check-in

2010-06-17T04:43:00.000-05:00

I have walked my legs off in amusement parks in the hot Florida sun for the past 2 days and I have insomnia. How is that even possible? I'm trying to be as quiet as possible because my sweet daughter is asleep close by. It's the wee hours of the morning, the time when all park goers should be sleeping. Because, after all, later this morning I'll be back out there.

We have had a blast so far. Johnny went to the convention and I did feel a bit guilty that we were having fun without him. Well, a little, tiny bit of guilt. Even a miniscule amount counts, right? He even took a detour on the way down here and we drove over to have lunch on the beach. I love the beach and haven't been a few summers. It was beautiful - no oil as far as the eye could see. Our waitress did tell us that their vacation crowds were already down. She blamed that on the media. The president was to be there the next day. Satellite trucks were already lining up.

And, speaking of celebrities, Harry Potter opens on Friday at Universal Studios. They closed that whole side of the park early today because, according to the news, there was a big shindig out there tonight. Commoners like us were not invited but JK Rowling (the author of the books, I'm not sure how to spell her name) & the actors & other celeb-type people associated with Harry Potter were out there. I did get some photos today and we'll see if we can even get close on Friday.

And, now I'll try to sleep. Hope you are staying cool, wherever you are!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

In Need of a Vacation

2010-06-11T10:32:00.000-05:00

Here it is, summer has not officially started (according to the calendar, not North Texas weather) and I'm already ready for a vacation. I think some over zealous parents at the summer basketball league about sent me over the edge. Good grief, you would've thought we were playing for the national championship or something. Get a grip, people, and relax a little.

So, the delivery men are here with my new washer and dryer. My washer died a few days ago and so I decided to get a new one instead of repairing the old one. I wanted a front loader and so then decided to get a matching dryer. They're red. Yes, my husband got a Harley and I got red, matching washer & dryer. I haven't been able to do laundry this whole week and I have not missed it one bit. I think when I see the mounds of dirty clothes that have most assuredly piled up upstairs that I might be a bit sorry I didn't make a trip to the laundromat this week. Come to think of it, I don't even know where one is located in Mansfield.

And, if you are still reading and are wondering what the point of this post might be, well, there is none. As is always the case, there is constant activity going on at this house. Really, I could hardly get through typing this blog post because of the constant interruptions. (Now you know why I've hardly been around lately.) I decided I am absolutely not going to be able to work on my writing assignment from my home office this summer so will be at my AIM office more than usual. With my door closed. And my iPod on.

Reporting shortly from vacation,

Jeanette

Emotions

2010-06-06T17:01:00.000-05:00

I haven't wanted to put a new post on my blog because I've been so proud of the last post -- the one my daughter put up after she hacked into my blog. Could a mom be more proud? My boys each posted a youtube video on my facebook wall of someone singing happy birthday as a little birthday greeting to me. They also wrote very nice cards so my heart has been full this week. I have become very emotional over the last few days as my daughter has been making some graduation gifts for friends. One in particular is a slideshow of her best friend, the friend that I call her "soul friend." Then today was senior recognition Sunday at our church. Our dear friend's parents could not be there today so we stepped in as her family for the day. Jess told me that parents were supposed to write a letter to the graduate so I wrote a letter to our friend. This morning I found our Student Pastor and asked him what I was supposed to do with the letter. READ IT, he said. Yeah, the parents were supposed to read the letter to their student during the lunch today. Then my mind is racing -- did I write anything too personal to be read outloud, did I write anything that would embarrass our friend, embarrass me or my family? Then, would there be any way on earth that I could read the letter out loud in front of other people? Tears filled my eyes just when our Student Pastor told me that the letter was meant to be read out loud. Well, of course I would not be able to read the letter but Johnny did. Even this afternoon, I have been writing some other cards and thinking about all our friends that will be leaving. Not like Josh, just 25 minutes away at DBU and we see him almost every week. But, AWAY. Like packing up and going away to college and leaving us. This has been the hardest graduation on me so far. Ever. So, tonight we'll go to a graduation party and then we won't think about college again until the end of the summer. We'll just have fun and work and travel and hope to say all the important things we want to say before our friends leave us. It will be the hardest on Jess - she will miss some of her friends in a huge way. And, our house will be a lot quieter and there will be less bodies upstairs on Saturday night/Sunday morning. Ok, I just can't think about it another second. There's still summer...

Serving the King,

Jeanette

oh yes i did!

2010-06-02T00:29:00.000-05:00

Now some of you might be wondering, "why on earth is this blog entitled oh yes i did?" Well that is because this is not Jeanette writing this blog, her blog has been hacked, by me, Jessica. I am the daughter of Jeanette for those of you who dont know so you dont have to call the blog police on me. Now today is my mothers birthday, and as she sleeps soundly in her bed room i am up hacking into her blog and posting this just to tell her happy birthday for the whole world to see. Now sure i could have just posted a facebook status saying "happy birthday mom, i love you" or something to that effect but i decided to take a different route. so now i will proceed to tell you a couple things about why my mother is so great. #1. She puts up with my brothers and I which i tell you is NOT an easy task. #2. She still has big dreams like a little kid, and has faith that someday they will come to life for the glory of God. #3. Her smile is infectious!! #4. She is just the best. end of story. she is everything.
the Bible says "a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." so its your birthday mom, and i just thought i would take this time to give you a little praise, you deserve it.
i love you, and if i can turn out to be half the woman of God you are, i will have done alright.

much love,
Jessica

Week One of Summer Break

2010-06-01T14:33:00.000-05:00

This is the first full week of summer break. Yippee!! We had a great Memorial Day weekend. We celebrated my parents' 50th anniversary yesterday with my brothers and their families. We had a low-key family party because we are sending them on a trip for their gift and wanted to spend our money on that. The party was here so it was a busy day for us. I loved it that Jessica's fb status last night was something my parents said to each other last night - My mom said, "Stand by me" to my dad when we were taking some photos. My dad said, "I've been standing by you for 50 years." Wow, a long time and a great heritage!

After a super busy weekend (that started, BTW, with a motorcycle ride for me and Johnny over to the town of Cleburne for breakfast on Saturday that was a LOT of fun) I am chillin' a little bit. Well, really, I'm about to get to work on my writing assignment after doing absolutely nothing this morning. Nothing except that I watched a show on Discovery Channel about the elusive Giant Squid. Until just a few years ago, it had never been photographed in the wild or alive, for that matter. Yeah, interesting, huh? Some scientists in Japan finally captured a Giant Squid on an underwater camera. Then, on another trip they attempted to video one in the depths of the ocean but instead it got caught in their line and came to the surface. The narrator said, "In science, as in travel, getting there is half the fun." He was talking about the study of the Giant Squid. The next voice heard was that of a scientist (not the one in Japan) saying, "Science...the day we know everything, it's going to be a very sad day." There are some things that just will not be known.

I was thinking about that recently when we watched the space shuttle land. There are some things about space that will never be known. Only God, the Creator, knows.

Well, gotta run 'cause I gotta help Jessica get signed up to take the ACT in September.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Now I Know It's Summer

2010-05-28T16:39:00.000-05:00

Today I got in the pool. The temp of the water is already perfect. Which means that the weather has already been hot enough to warm the water because I really don't like to get in cold water, which I believe I might've mentioned a time or two on this blog. I sat out by the pool today and read a book on Paul by F.F. Bruce. It's a book from seminary that I enjoy re-reading. Jessica saw I had it out and asked if I was reading it. She used it as a source for her research paper so she's familiar with it. I told her I was because it's a really good book. She agreed but said it was more like an encyclopedia. It's not, I promise.

I made a yummy summer treat the other day. It was really the result of an accident. I made cupcakes because the kids were going to have friends over after church -- not the public school kids because they aren't out of school yet, but the private school kids. I was going to make some glaze with some frozen strawberries that I put in the blender & powdered sugar. But, I didn't have enough powdered sugar to make it glazy enough so it was really strawberry syrup. yum! I ended up dipping the cupcakes in the strawberry syrup but had a lot left over. So, I added some crushed ice and blended it and it made a strawberry icee. It was really good. Today I made it again but with some mixed frozen fruit. I didn't have powdered sugar (still) and didn't want to put in regular sugar because I thought it would be too grainy so I made a simple syrup and then added that and the ice. I have to admit I like just strawberry but it was really refreshing so maybe it will become a regular this summer. Except for the fact that everyone in my family except me has free-fill cups from Race Trac so they might prefer that. We'll see...

Have a marvelous Memorial Day weekend!

Jeanette

Almost Summer

2010-05-24T16:49:00.000-05:00

I've been a delinquent blogger. I want to write something interesting and, while my life is FULL of awesome excitement right now, I'm having difficulty sharing it here. Though I have tried. Let's see...Josh is home for the summer. I am super glad about that. Jess and Jacob have one more day of finals tomorrow and then a half-day on Wednesday and then they're done. Another year completed. I look forward to the end of the school year because I love summer break. Every year I say that I don't want this summer to be as busy as last year's but every year we fill the weeks with activity before even the last day of school. This year is no exception, regretably.

But while I am excited about summer break, it means one more school year is over and then Jessica has only one more before college. And, then there's the baby of the family. He'll be a sophmore when school starts back up. I was talking to a friend this afternoon about, at times, wishing for those days when the kids were babies. When they were dependent on their momma and life was simplier. Though, those days didn't seem simple at the time.

Life goes on. It doesn't slow down for one second. It makes me think harder about making everyday count.

And, with that, I've got to go cook dinner. Something delicious and nutritious for sure!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Writers' Conference

2010-05-18T20:13:00.000-05:00

Wow, I think my head is about to explode. I have taken in sooo much information over the past 2 days. Not only am I new to the particular curriculum that I am writing but I am new to the publishing world and how lessons have to submitted, formatting, word counts, meeting editors expectations, and, well, the whole thing. Although my dream has been to be published I must admit it's nice when Johnny and I write for our church peeps and we only have to worry about getting our material to Julie and Shannon by our deadline and they simply print it and we pass it out. It certainly has way more pressure (like, none) than all this writing for LifeWay jazz.

The LifeWay team is great, though. I mean, super great. And I have run into an old friend, a friend of Johnny's and a classmate of our student pastor. That's been fun. And, it has been interesting to see how production of Sunday School curriculum goes from an outline to finished product. It really is a colaborative effort. At least this particular curriculum is.

So, I'm here at the hotel just chillin'. I'll be back at the conference early tomorrow morning then home tomorrow afternoon. Then, I'll be busy writing! What a thrill!

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Radical, the book - My Review

2010-05-10T16:49:00.001-05:00

This was my latest Blogging for Books read. I would've read it whether WaterBrook Multnomah sent it to me or not. I'm glad I read it. It was an easy read and the author captured my heart. The buzz word in some evangelical circles seems to be missional. I don't think David Platt used that word even one time in his book. Instead, he wrote that we are called to follow Jesus. Not to just live out a comfortable, Americanized version of obedience, but a radical abandonment to Jesus. Check out this quote from page 7, "We were settling for a Christianity that revolves around catering to ourselves when the central message of Christianity is actually about abandoning ourselves."

Platt included several stories about his travels overseas to places where it is not safe to worship publically or to share the Gospel. I've seen some of those places as well. I could relate to his stories. My heart ached when Platt wrote about the millions who have not heard the Gospel message, the billions who live in poverty, and the tens of thousands that are starving literally to death every single day. I live a comfortable life. I worship freely in a great church. I don't worry about my next meal except to wonder what I will cook in my well-stocked kitchen and who will help me clean up the dishes when we're done eating. But, my heart yearns to do more.

Platt wrote a section of his book about those that don't feel gifted or called to share the Gospel. Some want to hear about God's love but not the command He gave to go and tell and carry on Christ's mission on the earth. I about fell out of my chair when Platt dissed another well-known preacher who, well, preaches fluff. He didn't mention him by name but I know and Platt is right. I like this quote from page 71, "God creates, blesses, and saves each of us for a radically global purpose." Platt wrote that we want the privileges without taking on the obligations. It's not so we can have more stuff and store up treasures on earth but so that we will use our resources to point others to God. It's for His glory and not our own.

I could really go on for paragraphs about the book. But, I want you to read it for yourself. The book ends with a challenge. A one-year challenge. Johnny and I led a group of people from our church through a 20-week study of the book of Matthew this past school year. At the end, we talked about how 20-weeks is a long time and how few people are willing to commit to 20 weeks of anything. I wonder how many will commit to a one-year challenge. It's definitely a worthy pursuit.

So, check out the book and let me know what you think. Will you commit to be a part of the Radical Experiment? If so, I am so interested in keeping up with you and your progress and how God is using the experiment in your life. While you are reading this you have not idea what I'm referring to so read the book and get back to me. I'll be waiting.

Serving the King and wanting to be Radical,

Jeanette

Marvelous Mom's Day

2010-05-09T21:21:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a great day it has been. I got to be with my awesome Life Group this morning...love those girls sooo much. We're like family and making our own Life Group traditions, well, like family. If we're family, does that make me the momma? hahaha!

My family gave me just what I wanted for Mom's Day. Yes, a docking thing for my iPod. That's after I received a rose bush via the delivery man yesterday. We came home from church and my husband and kids cooked lunch. Johnny cooked steaks on the new grill he bought yesterday (for mothers' day?) and mine was perfectly cooked and perfectly delicious. I then took a way-too-long nap and relaxed the rest of the day. Oh, and we played some Sequence.

I called my mom today, of course. It's her first mothers' day without her mom. She has missed her. Johnny and I talked about my Grandmother just a couple of days ago. Last year, we drove to Waco on the Saturday, the day before Mothers' Day. We visted my Grandmother and took her some flowers. She was still doing pretty good and we had a nice visit. When I saw her just a couple of months later she had really changed and gone down hill. I'm sad she's gone. I'm sad for my mom and the loss of that generation.

Well, that's all. Hope you had a great mothers' day!

Jeanette

A Great Idea for Mother's Day

2010-05-06T09:39:00.000-05:00

I'm just checking to see if anyone in my family is reading my blog. Just in case, I'm giving a gift suggestion for this upcoming Mother's Day. You see, lately when I'm in my bathroom getting ready for the day I have my little notebook in there playing YouTube videos of my favorite songs. You know, those little mini-laptop, notebook things don't have enough memory (or whatever the correct electronic, techy term is) to download music. All my favorite music is on my ipod but I don't have speakers or docking station or anything else like that. So, wouldn't a great gift be one of those things so I could listen to my ipod instead of clicking from video to video? Just think, my getting ready time could be reduced to, well, a few seconds faster.

Just saying... just checking...

Serving the King,

Jeanette

PS - tomorrow I'll be back with my Blogging for Books review of Radical by David Platt. People, this is truly a great book so you should be picking up your own copy today. Yes, go today and get it. Unless you want to wait til my review tomorrow and go get it then. See you tomorrow.

A Big Sigh

2010-05-04T10:29:00.000-05:00

A big sigh is what I just heard from my dog, who is sleeping on the floor of my office. I know she missed me last week but maybe especially because she had to stay in her kennel so much. Even yesterday I was out of the house quite a bit so she had to go back. She was snoring just a little bit ago. Last night Johnny and I went with a couple of our pastors and their wives to a pastors' dinner. It was a lot of fun. I really, really love the people we have the privilege of serving with at FBCM. Anyway, when we got home Jessica had given the dog a bath. Not that she isn't willing, but she usually doesn't give the dog a bath when there's homework to be done. But, apparently, the dog was quite muddy. We had a bit of rain yesterday evening but I couldn't really figure out where she had been to get so muddy. As I was washing my face last night a thought occurred to me so I went outside in the dark to check it out. Yesterday afternoon I bought some plants for my garden. I moved the brick that was blocking the gate Johnny built with the fence that was meant to keep the dog out of the garden and put the plants back there til I could plant them today. That silly dog, I guess, saw me move that brick because when I went outside last night the brick was moved and the gate was open! Yes, the dog figured out how to get to my garden. Ugh! Don't worry, I fixed her. I've but a bungee cord on that gate until Johnny can get home today and come up with a more permanent solution.

I am also letting out a big sigh today. The last few weeks have been so crazy and today is quiet. The weather is beautiful so I'll work outside later after I've worked on my LifeWay writing assignment for a while. The rest of the week should be calm and I am so looking forward to that. I mean, I'm really excited. So, I guess I'll get off of here and get to work.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Mission Laredo Wrap-Up

2010-05-01T22:19:00.000-05:00

Today has been a super great day. My wonderful husband had almost everything done around the house so I could take it easy and recoup today. Our days in Laredo were full. On Wednesday we worked at the church, shopped for the block party, worked at the house, and passed out flyers and invited folks to the block party that was happening Thursday evening. We were also going to the church where we had been working to help lead in Wednesday evening services. One of our guys played his keyboard and another preached. Anyway, Karen and I had to go to our hotel to change clothes between the activities and church. We literally were dropped off in the van, went upstairs & changed and were back in the van in about 12 minutes. That's all the time we had and, well, we did the best we could.

On Thursday the guys were finishing up the patio cover and I actually got up on the scaffolding and put some screws into the metal to hold it onto the frame. The yard was super overgrown but was mostly weeds. I asked Bob if we had any money left in our budget to buy a weedeater and he said no. However, when he got back from the Home Depot he had a weedeater with him!! So, we worked on the yard as well. The block party was to start at 6 and we started getting ready mid-afternoon. I can't even remember what time it was. I was in charge of the popcorn machine for the big event. Thankfully, I learned to use the popcorn machine at our own church back in October. Like it's complicated...not! I passed out tons of popcorn, though, so it must've been good. hahaha!! I think the best part was watching our guys working the games. They really got into it and had fun with the kids. One of the guys told me it was really an eye-opening experience. Yeah, that it was.

All I know for sure is that I've got to get back to my Spanish lessons before I head back down to Laredo in July. We encountered way more Spanish speakers than English speakers. Most of the kids are bilingual but that's not true of the adults.

I'm a little conflicted. Knowing that many of the people are illegals and realizing that they need lots of help, how much can we provide for them without condoning the fact that they are breaking the law? But, they need Jesus. That I know for sure. So, I've been thinking about that some today. I was talking to a member of our church this evening about their poor living conditions and he said that even that was likely better than what they had in their home country. Wow, and that's hard to imagine. So, we'll keep seeking God and looking to Him for guidance as we figure out what we will do from here.

And that's the Mission Laredo wrap-up. The trip was actually really great. The team was wonderful to work with and I enjoyed being with them immensely. I didn't really know most of them very well at all so it was a lot of fun getting to know them. I am always amazed how God puts the right people together. This is my first trip where we did so much manual labor so it was an interesting venture for me.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Mission Laredo

2010-04-27T22:27:00.002-05:00

I am super tired but wanted to put up a quick post about day 1 & 2 of our mission trip to Laredo. We traveled and shopped yesterday. The guys bought supplies for our work projects and Karen and I shopped for food, etc. We're in charge of the food but thanks to our BFF, Joey who sent us with way more food than I think we'll be able to eat in 5 days that was leftover from the church picnic Sunday night, we won't have to cook too much at all. Today was a work day. We (and I am using the word we loosely) are building some walls at a new church plant. We also walked the streets of the nearby neighborhood to pass out Bibles to people who had asked for one. I did a LOT of sweeping today. Back at our other project site I used a crowbar and a hammer, while standing on scaffolding, to pry some boards off the exterior of the roof. Ok, ok, Darrell helped me but I mostly got the first one off myself. The real builders were off....shopping. Yes, they were shopping and we were working.

The main thing about today was that I was overwhelmed by the extreme poverty of the neighborhood where we were. The second thing was how impressed I am with the pastor of the church where we were today. At his own expense, he has started a church. I am so glad we could come alongside him to encourage him by being a tiny part of what he is trying to accomplish.

Now I must rest --

Serving the King,

Jeanette

DNow Weekend

2010-04-24T16:25:00.000-05:00

Well, well, it's DNow weekend. We've got junior and senior girls at our house. It's almost like a typical weekend around here except there aren't any boys around. Really, we are so used to having most of these girls here every weekend anyway Johnny and I just went to bed and knew they would do what they are supposed to. Well, we didn't go to bed too early. I had to learn a couple of new games first. The first one was called Ninja and the other one was Terridactal - and I know I'm not spelling that right but I just looked at a list of types of dinosaurs and it totally was not on there. Was that a real dinosaur? Love these girls and am pumped about DNow weekend.

The theme of the weekend is "Redefining Normal" and the logo has a flying pig on it. Yes, I am wearing a tshirt with a flying pig on it to church tomorrow. I will be sitting right there in my pastor's wife seat in my flying pig shirt. It's so cool how God orchestrates the events of our lives. As I mentioned a few days ago, Johnny just started a sermon series titled "Radical" and I've been reading The Cost of Discipleship by Bonhoeffer. I'm super excited about tomorrow and am already praying that the message of what it really means to follow Jesus will fall on hearts ready to hear it. Not only hear, but respond in obedience.

The girls are resting after we did our RAKS (random acts of kindness) so I better go do the same before we head back to church in a little while!

Have a fabulicious weekend!

Serving the King,

Jeanette