"IT'S A WRAP"- Some Thoughts for Christmas

It’s a season of “wrapping.” It’s a time of giving and receiving gifts.

For me, having just arrived home two days ago from Africa, the big kind of wrapping I’ve been asking for has not been traditional Christmas wrapping paper. But I’ve been saying, where are the blankets? Where is my coat? Brrrr.

And as we go into Christmas Eve today and Christmas tomorrow, thoughts of another kind of “wrapping” have been in my mind and heart.

What do we, as people, tend to try to wrap our lives in? Maybe we try to surround ourselves with comfort. With success. We fill our lives with markers of the “good life.”

Then we often wrap bodies in those things as well. Often we put on make-up or new clothes, things that speak of success- and that’s our wrapping- what we want people to see or guess about our lives.

But- what is the reality in most cases? What we fill our lives with and wrap ourselves in often leaves us unfulfilled.

And, if we are honest, underneath the outer “wrapping” of each of us- there are probably some things we don’t want people to know of or see. There is maybe fear or anger, hurt or loneliness. Maybe there is sickness or sadness, fatigue or guilt.  Maybe there’s insecurity, an addiction, depression.

But thankfully, there is undeserved gift that was given that has been extended to us!  This gift can restore and redeem our lives, on the inside and out.  And this gift is what many will celebrate around the world in Christmas services tonight and tomorrow.

Christmas Eve at Ginghamsburg Church

Our sin, at one time, had us all heading towards the same end- towards destruction and death. Separation from God had happened. And there was no bridge, no way to get back to God.

We needed a new “wrapping”- to get us to a different ending, but the penalty was too big to pay off.  It seemed we had chosen our own fate and it was a wrap, it was done.

But there was One, ONLY ONE, who was big enough, to rewrite the story.  And this One, in an unbelievable move, offered to do the unthinkable.

Part of God Himself, His Son-Jesus, entered His Own story to change the ending.

He took our condemned wrapping and made an EXCHANGE. Jesus put it on himself- and gave us His wrapping instead. Our unrighteousness, the rags and filth, the condemnation- Jesus wrapped himself in.  And He gave His wrapping to us…His righteous, His goodness, His holiness, His right standing with God- He offered to us as a gift.  

He then climbed onto a tree wrapped in our sin- and took God’s full wrath and punishment for that sin. It’s unbelievable and unthinkable- that move, so jaw-dropping.  The amazing love and grace demonstrated. That while we were still sinners- separated from Him, Jesus did this for us. And then He said in his last breath- it is NOW finished- NOW “it’s a wrap.” A new ending was written for us. Now we can choose that gift, that wrapping!!!!! The most AMAZING GIFT EVER GIVEN!

John 19:30
"It is finished," and He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

Romans 5:1-2; 6-8
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, ....you see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly....But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Romans 8:1-4
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death....

And in this covering from Jesus, this wrapping, is SO MUCH….

There is a Savior, a Merciful High Priest, A Helper through life, One who gives you Love, Peace, Joy, Hope, Provision, Protection, Salvation, A New Story...with a New End! 

Psalm 91:4
He will cover you with  His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; ...

Psalm 32:1;7
Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sings are covered. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and will sound me with songs of deliverance.

Psalm 125:2
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people both now and forevermore.

Romans 8:31-39

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?  He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

As we wrap in blankets and coats over the next few days; as we exchange gifts; maybe wrap in new clothes... may we remember what we’re really celebrating at this time… the greatest WRAP (end-finale) ever re-written. The incredible wrapping- new clothes, - that Jesus offers to us!

Jesus- Thank You… for leaving your home and coming here. For giving ALL, your life, your covering… and for taking ours, to forever change our end and story forever!!!

May we be willing to do the same in the lives of others globally. To leave our comfort- our homes-as you lead, to share about what you did, what you offer.

Our church's project in South Sudan, Christmas is "not your birthday!"

Philippians 2:5-11

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death- even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,  that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Happy Birthday Jesus! We remember you and love you so much!

Luke 2:8-11
"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord."...

Prayer Requests
-It's a joy to be home with my family the next few weeks to celebrate the holidays. Please pray a blessed time of rest for our family.
-Also, please keep my students in prayer, as classes are still in session.

My sister's arrival home to Ohio late last week :-)

My arrival home on Monday late afternoon :-)

THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS! Merry Christmas and May God Bless You!

-

LIVING GRATEFUL... A Thanksgiving Reflection

It’s only a day away from one of my favorite holidays- THANKSGIVING.

But in this part of the world, Thursday will be just another Thursday. There will be no turkey to carve. No smells of stuffing or pecan pie to fill the room. No football games to watch after a big feast. 

But one thing will be the same … I will be giving thanks!!!

I want more than ever to live a GRATEFUL life- one of constant thanksgiving.  

1 Thessalonians 5:8

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus

Why should I give thanks always? Gratitude and thanksgiving gives glory and honor to our God. Life is a gift and we have been given God WITH US, and a redeemed story to live, a global family as our team, a mission to complete, and an eternity ahead with our God. Those are huge reasons to give thanks!

But sometimes, life gets busy and stressful. Our giving thanks and living grateful lessens. Sometimes there seems to be more darkness than light. More despair than hope.  Watching recent events from my country on the internet about  Ferguson, Missouri- brings sadness and things look dark. But darkness is not the end of our story, or of our world.

A few weeks ago, God reminded me in a unique way about His light in darkness.

Power (electricity) is not consistent here in our area. Some days you go home and there’s nothing but darkness in your part of the city. You are thankful at these times for solar lights and long-wick candles- for even a small amount of light makes a huge difference. 

Well, recently, an odd thing happened several days in a row.  I noticed our electric sockets worked, but not our lights.  So many people sat in the dark on our compound, not realizing the lights were out, but the sockets were hot.

That weird occurrence made me think about how on life’s journey- at many times, I sat in the dark. There were times when I felt alone or afraid or sad or discouraged.  Life’s circumstances can bring darkness into your heart or season. Maybe a bad work situation or a broken relationship. Maybe a closed door or one of life’s hallways (transitions)…makes you feel in the dark and you don’t see the way out yet.  There are lots of shadows and dark valleys to pass through.

But in those times, even if it’s dark, our wiring – our internal ability to stay connected and charged- is ON, our power source remains HOT. We can CONNECT ALWAYS to our Father in heaven who lives in us and gives hope, joy, peace, unconditional love…that can weather any storm, light any darkness, and see us through any season.  

2 Samuel 22:29

You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light.

John 1:4

In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it

Psalm 139:11-12

If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.

Hebrews 4:15-16

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.  Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

There is ABUNDANT grace, ABUNDANT provision, ABUNDANT power, ABUNDANT light and life that we’ve inherited as God’s family. May we connect, stay connected, and let His light shine in us.  This light, even when the outer lights seem OFF in our circumstances, can SHINE. And can be a testimony to others of our God.

Isaiah 9:1-2

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder.

Isaiah 42:16

I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.

Colossians 1:13

For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves…

1 Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.

Matthew 5:14-16

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

 

Each day, may my life display a deep gratitude to God!  God can give us a NEW song,  LIVING hope, BRIGHT LIGHT to see by and give to others in any darkness. May we plug in and feel that love and encouragement this Thanksgiving and holiday season, and share these with others!

Psalm 40:3

He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in Him.

1 Peter 1:3

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead…

Psalm 107

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story…

John 10:10

The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy, but I (Jesus) have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Each day, may we live grateful lives!

Happy Thanksgiving!

With Love and Gratitude always!

Holly

PRAYER REQUESTS

-Things continue to be busy here. Please continue to pray for my classes and students. My seminary classes run on a western calendar so I’ll be finishing those classes in the next month. Pray that my two seminary classes will have a good finale and that students will do well on final exams and assignments.

-I will be traveling home for Christmas. Please pray safety for that and a good time of rest at home with my family.

-Keep my sister in prayer as she travels home as well. It will be great to be together again for the holidays!

Thank you for your prayers!!!

The POWER OF A PAUSE ...

Sometimes life can get VERY busy.  Time can speed by. And before you know it, a season has passed.  You realize you're another year older or even a decade older. 

Last week I celebrated my birthday and that caused me to take a big PAUSE in the busyness.  How old am I now? I screamed at the calculation. Goodness. My students helped me celebrate and I took time to pause and reflect.

one of many cakes my students gave me :-)

4th year IT students, sung me Happy Birthday, they made me smile :-)

What had I learned on life’s journey so far? What was God teaching me? How could I best maximize my remaining time on earth? 

Pauses can be powerful. Sometimes life’s circumstances can cause you to pause, to be still. Maybe a birthday or a new year causes you to look behind and plan ahead. Maybe an unexpected illness happens and you pause to prioritize. Maybe a job change occurs. Or a child is born.  The change, the miracle, causes a pause. Maybe a sunset or sunrise makes you catch your breath and be still. To take it in. To look deeply.  To think.

God has been reminding me as my fall schedule has gotten extremely busy the past few weeks that I need to make sure I’m taking strategic pauses in my day.  That I’m taking time to be still and place myself before God so I can see Him, hear Him, and lean on Him to get His perspective, His peace. Also to make sure I’m still going the right way and living each day to its fullest.   I need God’s help to be effective in teaching here and to not get overwhelmed by all there is to do. 

Here are the classes that I'm humbled to teach this fall ... 

Environmental Science and Food Science Students

Marketing and Management Students

IS and IT Students

Architecture Students

my Intro to Missions Seminary class

my Intro to Youth Ministry, Seminary class

Sometimes in the busyness, you can forget to catch your breath.  But catching your breath is important. Maybe you take a walk or lay in a field and look at the clouds. Watch kids play a game of futbol (soccer) or go for a drive. Maybe you get up early to watch the sunrise or go outside and watch the sun set.  To still your inner spirit is important. For in a pause, God can speak to you, refresh you in that stillness. In these times, His peace, perspective, hope, and love can be experienced.

Sunrise, one of my favorite times of day

Psalm 46:1, 10

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…; Be still and know that I am God….

Isaiah 30:15

In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…

I believe in a pause, God can help you SEE.  Where are you? What are you doing? How are you acting? What path are you going down? Pauses can help give clarity to the road you’re on.  It’s so easy to end up down a wrong path before you even know you had turned.  

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight

Exodus 15:13

In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them…

John 10:3

The Shepherd knows His sheep by name and leads them out.

Joel 2:13

…Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love…

God can help you see the path

I believe in pauses, you can also HEAR.  Sometimes we get so busy and distracted, that we can’t hear God’s voice clearly.  When we slow down and take a pause, God can speak to us in those quiet moments.

Isaiah 30:21

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

Hebrews 3:7

Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…

John 10:3

His sheep follow Him because they know His voice

God can also help you REFLECT in a pause. Do you remember where you’ve come from, the lessons God has taught you, the seasons God has seen you through? These memories can bring humility and gratitude.

In reflecting on my overall life this past week, I was deeply humbled in remembering the times I had fallen down.  Through so many seasons I remembered how God carried me through valleys and droughts and over mountains and how He continues to be my God, my friend, in each day. He wants us to remember the journey and that He’s with us.

Deuteronomy 8:2-11

Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the desert all these years to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commands. He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, … to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell… be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God…

Psalm 103:2

Praise the Lord all my soul and forget not all His benefits…

In reflecting, I also remembered my family and felt great gratitude for their years of love, support and encouragement through changing seasons.

God can bring many things to mind in the pauses about our journey behind. And those memories can be for our good.

God can also give you CLEAR DIRECTION for the way ahead when you pause to seek His leadership. 

He is able to show you the way to go.  Many days we sit at a crossroads of decision. To continue or to stop? To end something or begin? To go or to stay? God has the wisdom you need in all. For relationships, jobs, ministry….  He can show you His plan and the best way ahead.

Matthew 7:7-8

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

Jeremiah 29:11-12

For I know the plans I have for you, …plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. .. call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart….

Matthew 6:33-34

Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness…do not worry…

Often in pauses, there’s the temptation simply escape from ALL.  To disconnect from God and stress so you don’t have to face the situation at hand. Maybe you don’t want to see, hear, reflect, or get direction.  Maybe you just want to sleep in a pause or watch a movie, to put it all away from you.

May we not forget that God is WITH us and is FOR us. He is able to help us past anything we're facing, get us through any season, any job, any discouragement. He can recharge us, renew us, if we allow Him to, if we seek Him. We can come out of a pause with new perspective, a fresh word, humility, gratitude, direction, and His strength. 

John 15:4

Remain in me and I will remain in you!

Isaiah 40:28-31

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God…He will not grow tired or weary…He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.

May we take strategic pauses each day to look to our God! And continue to give Him our best on the journey!  

Praises-Prayer Requests

- Happy Birthday this past week to my beautiful Mom (10-27) and my sister Noel (10-29). We are all so thankful for another year of life on earth!!! And a big praise for my Dad, he’s doing great and we love him so much!

-Please pray for my classes and teaching, that God will give me good favor and wisdom in teaching the 210 students I have each week.

-Please pray for good health.  Rainy season has ended, sun and dust have returned in full force.

-Please pray for a work-visa approval my school is processing for me. We hope to see that come through successfully this week.

-Please keep my sister in prayer as she continues to be here through Christmas- that God will bless her time as she serves in different projects and please pray God gives her direction for her way ahead. She is a blessing!

My sister Noel on a recent trip to South Sudan

Thank you for your prayers!  Blessed November to you!

I LOOK TO YOU...

Rainy season here seems to be holding on a bit longer than usual. I've been more than ready for the frequent rains and cloudy days, along with mud-soaked jeans and shoes, to finish and for the sun to fully come back.

The transition has finally started to happen, the sun has returned .... especially in the mornings....

I have loved to open my curtains and look out my window to see the sun rise and to feel its warmth. I’ve almost applauded it several mornings. 

It’s the first thing I’ve been looking for the past several days. Will the sun be out today?

That “first look” has made me reflect on where I tend to look FIRST in the morning or in my day.  Who or what gets my FIRST attention?

Often in our tech driven world- we look FIRST to social media. Who messaged me and who is doing what?  We check our facebook or twitter; email or our mobile phones.

Sometimes maybe we look at our TO DO list.  Or maybe we look in on family members- helping them, him-her, prepare for the day.

Often- where we look first, can easily set the tone for our mood, our feelings for the day. Maybe we go into the day disappointed or stressed because of where we looked first.

I’ve been reminded this past week that my “first look” each day needs to be to God…before anything or anyone else. Why?

There are many reasons. But here are a few…

GOD DESERVES OUR FIRST LOOK BECAUSE…

He Is Worthy

We have a God who is INCOMPARABLE in who He is. 

When you look at who He is- maybe you bow your head in reverence, maybe you lift your hands in praise, maybe you smile, or tears come to your eyes at the power of His presence and mercy- the way He paints skies and moves in our lives and world.  Amazing! And He’s invited us to come near and see Him, to know Him, to walk and talk with Him. What greater relationship, what greater gift can one marvel at than this gift offered to us? May we look to Him FIRST, He’s worthy!

Psalm 145:3

Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom

Psalm 29:2

Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name, worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness

Exodus 15:11

Who is like you— majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?

And when we look to Him FIRST, our view about ourselves, our day, our stress, can get RIGHT PERSPECTIVE.

He Gives Perspective 

Looking to God FIRST, gives perspective!

God is BIG, ALL-POWERFUL, All-KNOWING. And He’s FOR us and is WITH us. 

He has perfect wisdom. Every day He is writing in His Word what He wants us to know. He can put everything in perspective. Problems don’t seem big at all when we look to God FIRST.  Mountains can be moved; rivers can be parted. Doors can be opened. Diseases can be healed. A way can be made. 

May we look to Him FIRST for the perspective we need!

Matthew 6:33

Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness…

Psalm 121

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip— He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm— He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Psalm 9:10

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

Isaiah 41:13

For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

Psalm 5:3/8:3-4;9
In the morning, Oh Lord, you will hear my voice... When I consider the work of your heavens...what is man that you are mindful of him, .....Oh Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

He is the Source of All We Need

We also need to look to God first because He is ALL we need.

God is the ONLY One who can satisfy our deepest needs. He is the ultimate source of lasting satisfaction and our only sure foundation.  May we not look to other things before Him. May we drink from the right well, build our lives on the only foundation that will last.

Isaiah 48:17

This is what the Lord says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.

Isaiah 26:3

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.

Psalm 16:11

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. 

Matthew 11:28-29

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

John 4:14

Whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.

Isaiah 28:16

So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.

Isaiah 33:6

He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure.

So often in years past, I went through my days- not seeking God first . I looked other places first and often had wrong perspective and wrong sources of peace, joy, and affirmation.  I gave worth (time and focus) to other things first, before God.  Yet it is God who deserves our first look and our worship. 

After college, I lived in the country of Haiti. Our mission team at the time literally lived on the roof of our compound. Sleeping on that roof and waking up in the morning there were especially memorable for me. I would wake up literally looking up at God- the big expanse of the sky He made. And I would immediately feel small. At first- for several months, I was afraid- overwhelmed. I felt my smallness.  But over time, the focus on my smallness changed to a focus on God’s bigness- and it led to me literally worshipping God in my bed. My hands would raise and I would sing.  I think this brought a smile to God’s face.  I gave to Him worth-worship! I went into my day having looked FIRST at Him- the right source of all I needed, and thus I had perspective.

May I continue to look to Him FIRST, every day! This is my prayer for this busy fall season.

Onward!

Prayer Requests

-This week, school has started at Hope University College in Addis. I am teaching Communication English to four classes of students, around 150 students, 16 hours a week of class time. Please pray as this huge part of my schedule begins- that God will use me on campus and in the classroom to represent Him well.

-I continue to teach two evening classes (Intro to Missions and Intro to Youth Ministry) at a local seminary. Please pray God will continue to bless these class times.

-Please pray for my sister as she serves this week and into next week in South Sudan with a Ginghamsburg Mission Team. Pray for their safety and that they're a blessing to the people and missionaries there.

-Please keep my Amharic language learning in prayer, that I can learn quickly and use the language correctly.

-Please pray for good health and good relationships with students, co-workers, neighbors.

-And please pray I can maximize days and times here- that I will seek God FIRST each day.

Thanks so much for your prayers and partnership!

Happy October and fall season to you! God Bless!

BODY BUILDING- Keeping Fit to Serve

As the years have passed, I have become more and more aware that I’m getting older and I need to do my best to stay healthy.  And I've learned that it definitely takes more strategic focus than ever before to maximize my health and keep things from falling apart.

I’ve been chuckling the past few days thinking of the all the ways I’ve tried to stay “fit”- in the different places I’ve lived and worked.

I thought of my time living in Haiti. Our intern team made weights (dumbbells) of concrete. We’d lift and have step aerobics sessions on our mission roof.  I’m sure those in the community who were watching thought the “missionaries” were crazy.

I also remember running around different sport fields in a skirt and up and down mountain paths in different lands.  I know the locals got a kick out of that.  I’m sure it was a sight.

In Youth Ministry in Ohio, my Dad used to come up to our youth building and would take big walks with me around our church’s parking lot.  Some of our staff would toss a football over our lunch break or join aerobics classes together .  These were ways to try to relieve stress and stay healthy.   They made for great memories too. 

And of course, here in Ethiopia- it’s been a ton of walking and trying my best to figure out healthy ways to cook. I’ve also found a small local gym where I try to keep in shape.

Why does it matter? Why make the effort for good health? Why should I keep working to build my body and keep it conditioned?  As my fall schedule has largely kicked in the past few weeks here, I’ve been thinking about these things. (Maybe many of you are experiencing the same…working to adjust to a new fall schedule and trying to strategically include things for good health)

I’ve been remembering that we’ve actually been given TWO “bodies” to take care of and be part of.

1.       One is our own physical body, our earthly tent. 

2.       and the other … is the Body of Christ, a large, diverse, and wonderful family in Jesus.

How are you physically? How is the condition of your “earthly tent”- your body?

How is your activity in the Body of Christ? Are you active in God’s family work?

Why does good health in both of these bodies matter?  

YOUR PHYSICAL BODY

Our earthly tents, our physical bodies, are basically where we live. We weren’t given a wish list to pick what our tents would look like or feel like.  We just have to do the best we can with what we have.

Our tents are temporary, but so important. They’re vast, wonderful, miraculous! Yet, they are also aging and dying. We have to bathe them, feed them, and take them to the doctor.  We have to manage them the best we can.  Why? It's not just because they are where we live. The Bible also tells us it’s where God has said His Spirit takes up residence.  That’s a big deal!!!

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

Our “tents” are also observed by others. We are often judged on first look or glance at the appearance of and health of our physical bodies. This may not seem fair, but it is a reality. We are ambassadors, part of a kingdom, representing a King. Can people tell the qualities and values of your King and His kingdom by your physical appearance?  I don’t mean your bodies should be covered with “what would Jesus Do” clothing, etc. Jesus didn’t wear things like that. But our tents should reflect a holy God and our physical bodies should show that we recognize God’s Spirit lives in us and we're trying our best to take care of our earthly tents.

I believe the building up of our bodies is worth the effort.  WHY? …so we can serve God at our maximum ability wherever and whatever He calls us to do. For example, if tomorrow… God would tell me to “go tell it on that mountain”- I would want to be able to climb to the top without falling over in a heart attack because I’m out of shape. If God calls me to swim to a nearby island, physically- I want to be ready- able to do that.  That requires keeping the body in good health.

Romans 12:1-2

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.  No, I discipline my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize

I had the privilege of getting trained as a personal trainer this past August while home in the USA. This training was offered through YWAM (Youth With A Mission) and the course’s main manual was called- Fit to Serve. It talked about a biblical base for a healthy lifestyle and how we can help others maximize their health as well.  

Certified as a Personal Trainer

I learned so much about how to maximize my health and why it matters. Learning to understand our own physical bodies and keeping them built up and healthy- is simply good stewardship.  

May we honor God with our earthly tents…taking care of them so we’re fit to serve at our maximum strength in honor of our God!!!

We also have a place in the BODY OF CHRIST, we’re in God’s family.

1 Corinthians 12:12

Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.  For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body

In God's family, in the Body of Christ, are you active? Contributing?

This one is difficult. Sometimes we forget that we have a larger body we’re called to contribute to and look after.

Often on this one- we neglect to do our part- not realizing the impact on ourselves and others if we’re not there.

If you see a team missing several players, it would cause you to wonder what is up. If you see someone’s body- and several parts are missing or not working- you also realize something is not healthy.If you're not at your place and doing  your part in the Body of Christ, it's noticed and felt.

I shared in my last blog post about two missionaries who had contracted the Ebola virus while serving in Liberia. I was touched by their willingness to be in the hard places for God.  I was thrilled to learn of their recovery- when a team came around them and helped them recover.  Team-family matters.  And each one has a part to play.

Dr. Brantly being released from the hospital and the "team" that helped him recover

Sometimes- we get busy judging the other parts of the Body of Christ- pointing out weaknesses or failures- when actually the Body of Christ- is part of our OWN BODY- it’s reflective of our King and kingdom.  The image of Christ suffers when there’s disunity among the body. When one part is hurting, the whole body feels it.  We need each other! No man was made to be an island. God gave us family, each other, to encourage each other and be part of His work together. And we need each other.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27

…Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.  Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body.  And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body.  If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be?  But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.  If they were all one part, where would the body be?  As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!”  On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,  and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.  If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

Romans 12:3-8

Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function,  so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.  We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith;  if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach;  if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Romans 14:10-13

You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.  It is written: “As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.”  So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up

Galatians 5:13

…serve one another humbly in love

1 Peter 1:22

…love one another deeply, from the heart

Hebrews 10:24-25

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,   not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Also, when we connect in the Body of Christ, we are also impacted!  Connecting in your place brings fulfilment.

My Dad is a great example of this.

My Dad- Jim

I love seeing my Dad serve. His physical body has had a lot of added aches and pains over the past few years. But he has done his best to keep healthy and strong. He still walks and exercises even though it’s not as easy as before.  And amazingly- my Dad HAS NOT LEFT HIS POST- His place of serving in the Body of Christ. Every Sunday morning- he is at church- high-fiving children and shaking parents’ hands in the Children’s Ministry area. He gets a spiritual zing- great joy and fulfillment in doing his special part in God’s kingdom work. If he’s not there, He’s missed. If he can’t be there, he misses it too. He is a hero and example to many because of his humble example!

May we also do our part in the Body or Christ- in honor of our God!!!

I’ve also been remembering that staying connected to Jesus is KEY for good health in the physical body and in the Body of Christ. 

If you’re physical body is in good shape, but you’re disconnected from Jesus- you still won’t feel good. Connection with the giver and perfecter of your life and faith is essential!

Also, when you’re connected to Jesus, the work you do and part you play in the Body of Christ will also be on target and done in love. 

John 15:5; 9-17

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.  If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.  I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.  My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.  Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.  You are my friends if you do what I command.  I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.  You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.  This is my command: Love each other.

May we stay connected to Jesus! And may we work to build-keep healthy the bodies we've been given- so God's glory may be known and seen in the world!

Onward in His Strength!

Prayer Requests

-My sister has arrived safely in Ethiopia and is getting used to life in Africa. Pray for her as she serves with some different organizations here and also gets training in church planting to help our church’s Sudan Project. It’s been great to have her here.

My sister- Noel

-I’m now in Amharic language school. I’ve loved my classes so far. I have class three times a week with a personal instructor named Mekdes. Please pray for this time of learning- that I will be a good student and learn quickly.

My language instructor- Mekdes

learning Amharic

-I’ve started teaching two fall courses at the Evangelical Theology College in Addis, the seminary where I taught an intensive English course in June. I’m teaching Intro to Missions and Intro to Youth Ministry. I’ve loved my classes and new students so far. Please keep these classes in prayer as we continue through the fall- that I will share stories and experiences from my time in these areas with great wisdom and will help encourage and build up the students.

-I will begin teaching English again at Hope University College when school opens in early October. Please keep this work in prayer- as it’s an excellent place to share God’s love with new and former staff and students.  I'm excited to work there again.

-I was part of a wedding last weekend of an Ethiopian friend Abraham and his new wife- Caitlin. Pray for them as they begin their life together.

-Next week is a big holiday here in Ethiopia. On Thursday, September 11, a new year will begin, 2007.  Pray for a great time of celebration and a blessed New Year as the fall season gets underway, rains stop and sun returns, and schools get back in session. 

May God be honored in and through our lives always!
 

Thanks so much for your love, support and prayers. Keep in touch!

Happy Ethiopian New Year 2007!