"BREAKING...GOOD"

It seems life is full of “breaks.” Broken cars can make you late for school or work.  Broken discipline can lead to distractions and unhealthiness. Broken relationships can lead to a lack of confidence and then bitterness. A government that can’t work together can lead to a break, then a shut-down. How is that even possible?

One of the most popular TV shows here that just ended was called “Breaking Bad.” Sometimes people for no reason at all just start doing “bad” things they never thought they would do.

When things “break” does it always have to turn bad or end bad? Is God able to take these breaks that seem so bad and turn them for incredible good?  That is of course part of how He’s worked in history.

These thoughts have come to mind the past few weeks for me as I have been taking time off from teaching in Ethiopia.

Our family had a big scare this past weekend, when something broke in my Dad’s body, something went wrong and he was rushed to the hospital with chest pain. He was in the hospital several days. When those you love experience brokenness in any part of their lives, it’s hard to see.  Though my Dad kept in his sense of humor through it all, I know it scared him and us all.

Doctors are still trying to figure out why this “break” happened in him and what is was. Thanks for continuing to pray!

My sister and I received this news about my Dad when we were in Richmond, Virginia at a YWAM (Youth With A Mission) base. We had joined an intensive two week course to learn fitness as a way to do mission.  It’s interesting to me how God continues to use opportunities and circumstances to teach us powerful lessons.  God had something to teach me about brokenness while there.  Our time in Richmond included three tough physical workouts a day.  OUCH.  After our two weeks of training though, we would be certified by Coach Tim Powers as personal trainers through the Human Performance Center-Richmond; University of the Nations; and Vital Force International.

Our coach and trainer, Tim Powers

 For me, I loved the concept of learning a skill that I could use globally to teach people about wholeness and wellness.  So while learning these things, I also was deeply inspired by the students who came together to learn.  Each had a unique story that seemed to hold some element of brokenness that God was turning for incredible good. Amazing!

We joined these 24 students from around the USA and the world - learning the anatomy of the body, proper and realistic nutrition and how to design exercise programs to max someone’s full potential.  We ran speed drills, did lifting and squats, morning “ladders.”  We prayed together.

After week one, I felt inspired inwardly, but so tired outwardly. We all felt sore and felt like we had “breaks” in our tendons, muscles, etc.

What was fascinating for me to learn in our classroom training time was more about this idea of brokenness. I learned our bodies actually respond well to being stretched and literally injured. 

What you do when you train hard or lift heavy is you actually “break” your own body. 

And the amazing thing about the body is how it responds- it actually compensates to rebuild your body to handle the greater strain.  As you are broken down, it’s repaired stronger, with more muscle and power. All of that has to be done in the right way, but how amazing is that!!! The great Creator-Designer-Engineer of our bodies is beyond compare!!!!

I was reminded all over again some important truths. We are created by God and for a unique purpose. We are a masterpiece.  And we’re to maximize our time in these earthly tents.

Genesis 1:27

So God created man in his own image…

Ephesians 2:10

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

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.

Psalm 39:13-14

…you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made…

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

You’ve all been to the stadium and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You’re after one that’s gold eternally.  I don’t know about you, but I’m running hard for the finish line. I’m giving it everything I’ve got. No sloppy living for me! I’m staying alert and in top condition. I’m not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.

I was also reminded that brokenness is everywhere. 

But I was also encouraged in learning that not only do our bodies actually grow stronger through heavy weights and hard stretching and pain, but our lives can also be improved and strengthened through the things we pass through. Pain and breaks can lead to new construction and incredible muscle for the way ahead.  Breaking can turned for good.

Hebrews 12:11

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it

2 Corinthians 7:10-11

Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.  See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done.

Isaiah 38:17

Surely it was for my benefit that I suffered such anguish. In your love you kept me from the pit of destruction; you have put all my sins behind your back.

The story of Joseph in the Bible comes to mind. His life seemed crushed, completely broken. He was sold into slavery by his brothers and was taken to a foreign land. Later, he was falsely accused and imprisoned. Could it get any worse? But God turned it for good- and this is what Joseph said later to his brothers as God positioned him not only to save Egypt from famine, but his own family as well….

Genesis 45:7-10

Joseph said to his brothers, “Come close to me.” When they had done so, he said, “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt!  And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping.  But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.

I’ve been reminded that at any given moment, we can “break” into a bad routine or habit or thought pattern if we’re not careful.  We can choose the easy way or the comfortable way instead of the narrow way.  But because of God’s hard-wiring of us and His Spirit in and with us, we can break into good as well- choosing right even if it might cost us our jobs or a friendship. We can choose compassion and mercy instead of judgment and contempt. We can choose to love and serve our enemies. We can bless, not curse. We can sing instead of complain. We can worship in trust, no matter the breaks or circumstances, because of the one writing our life stories.

Most mountaintops are preceded by valleys or desert times of training.  These times usually involve dealing with brokenness or realizing brokenness.  Never easy to pass through!

 

But experiencing that brokenness might be just what we need.

Jesus himself did not shy away from the pain of the desert or from experiencing the brokenness of life. He entered a broken world and subjected himself t o a broken body….

Isaiah 53: 2-5

….He had nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces, He was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering,
yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
 and by his wounds we are healed.

In His humanity and in the humility learned- He paid for our sin to give us power to overcome brokenness. To no shield us from it- but the ability to actually grow stronger from passing through it. He rose in power and so can we!

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.

 John 17: 15-18

 My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.  Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.  As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.

2 Corinthians 12: 9-10 
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

If you’re experiencing brokenness of some kind, maybe a break in your body, maybe a break in a relationship, maybe you are seeing and feeling injustice at your work or in your community, take heart. If God has allowed us to see or experience brokenness, He can turn it for our great good. Breaking doesn’t have to end bad but can be turned for good.  God can increase your strength!

Philippians 1:6

…He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 3:20

He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine

Does God “cause” pain and suffering? Indirectly- yes. He gave us choice- and our choice brought the “break” between God and us into the world. Can God shield us from the breaks? Yes.  But often He chooses to let things play out- teaching us through the brokenness of our world and our decisions- making our stumbles and falls- as part of our testimonies.  We have a merciful high priest who has felt our pain and struggle.  We can still praise Him still through ANY pain or struggle!

This song has been encouraging me….

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mmgV6mPvb0

Blessings by Laura Story

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we have faith to believe

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You're near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You're near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the achings of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

May the breaks we experience and see, be lifted back up to God for Him to transform into a beautiful part of our story.

Psalm 30:5

…weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

Psalm 126: 5-6

Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.

Psalm 147:3

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

1 Peter 5:10

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

Isaiah 40:31

…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.

Onward with You!!!

PRAYER REQUESTS

-Please continue to keep my Dad in prayer, He’s home from the hospital but doctors are still continuing to run tests on him.  Thanks so much for your prayers!  We love him soooo much!

-Please keep our new YWAM friends-team in Richmond, VA in prayer! The majority of this group will continue in a DTS (Discipleship Training School) for five more months, three of those months being spent serving in fitness ministry internationally. May God give unity and impact for this special group! GO TEAM!

-Please continue to pray for our school, Hope University College in Ethiopia, as classes gear up to start this month. 

-Please pray for me as I continue to work on my book and pray about my best place in the time ahead.

-Please pray for finances as I continue to fundraise for Ethiopia.

-Please pray for dear friends in Ethiopia and for the country and region overall, that God will bless!

-Please pray for our government in the USA, that this shutdown will end and a good compromise will be found…that out of bad, good will come.

-Please pray for many serving globally, that God will take the brokenness they’re seeing or experiencing and use that to make them stronger.

Together we are stronger! Blessed October to you!

"THIS IS MY STORY"

As I have continued taking rest in the USA from teaching English at a college in Ethiopia, it’s been so interesting being back in my “home area.”  Many memories have come to mind while driving by old schools, visiting friends from high school, and in walking and stopping by old workplaces. In some places and people, there has been so much change- you wouldn’t even recognize the place or person. In other places and people, nothing had changed at all or things had gone downhill.

All of this has made me think about my overall “life story.”

What has been my story? As I’ve been running the path of life, what have been the lessons learned? What changes has my story brought in me?  

What will my story continue to be and look like?

I guess for me at this point looking back- I see so many weird twists and turns. And sincerely I see so many falls. How many times should one person “fall” on a life run?  Not just stumbles mind you, but complete and total wipe-outs? Some of these wipe-outs should have disqualified me from continuing.

There have been so many instances of missed opportunities where I didn’t maximize time or fell short of expectations.  

And mixed in with those have been several continents and different jobs with different roles. I’ve been humbled to do many things far beyond my qualifications and have had the unique opportunity to live beyond our borders. 

But in looking back in recent days, what has seemed very clear about my story is my ability to fall down and fall down pretty hard and often.

And it is more evident to me than ever before that what has “saved” me through all and why I’m still here at all- is incredibly big mercy and grace- A Savior who caught me time and again when I fell and helped me to get back up and keep going.

The falls I’ve made in different seasons and even cultural contexts, still had me landing on a Cornerstone, a person who I put my trust in years ago.  God’s Son, Jesus, died for my sin, and laid His life down for mine- to become my Cornerstone. He’s the Rock, the anchor that holds. His righteousness covers my unrighteousness, and in my weakness- He shines as strength.

Without this Cornerstone, I would be NOTHING in my own story. This foundation, this cornerstone, has held.  Jesus has helped me up time and again and has encouraged me to keep going, He is with me and will keep me with Him until home, He is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. He will never leave me or forsake me, nor will He ever leave or forsake you.

This song has been blessing me so much….

“Cornerstone” by Hillsong

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izrk-erhDdk

CORNERSTONE

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly trust in Jesus name

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly trust in Jesus name

Christ alone; cornerstone
Weak made strong; in the Savior's love
Through the storm, He is Lord
Lord of all

When Darkness seems to hide His face
I rest on His unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil
My anchor holds within the veil

Christ alone; cornerstone
Weak made strong; in the Savior's love
Through the storm, He is Lord
Lord of all
He is Lord
Lord of all

When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh, may I then in Him be found;
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless stand before the throne.

These verses have been encouraging me so much too…

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

Ephesians 2:19-22

…you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.  In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.  And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

1 Peter 2:6

See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in Him will never be put to shame.

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.

1 Corinthians 3:11

For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ

Psalm 18:2

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 40:2

He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand

I’m SO grateful through changing seasons, our foundation, our Cornerstone... REMAINS.

I’m not sure what’s next in my life story…but whatever is to come, I have to trust my Savior, the foundation that He is.  He will hold me when I fall and will never let me go.

Onward with You!

Prayer Requests

-Please keep me in prayer as I continue to take rest in Ohio with my family that God will bless our time.

-Please pray for a mission training in Richmond, VA- I will be attending with my sister the next two weeks.

-Please keep staff and students in prayer in Ethiopia, as the semester gets organized to begin again soon

-Please keep my book in prayer as I continue to write.

-Please pray for clear direction for me for the time ahead!

Thank You So Much!!!

"CARRY THE MAT"

There are many things I’ve enjoyed about being home during this “break time” from Ethiopia…

There has been extra time to breathe and think through days behind...

There has been the modern conveniences, consistencies and comforts of my home country…so shocking and nice.   There’s been seeing the “family” decorations on and around our Ohio home that always make me smile.

There are the many choices and flavors. And old favorites … like Panera Bread’s chai lattes and favorite study areas, parks and hiking trails.

 And of course I’ve enjoyed being with my American tribe!

Connecting with many supporters and prayer partners has also been a great blessing.  To exchange stories and hugs, even tears, of the months behind. So meaningful!

Another thing I’ve enjoyed so much about being home has been being back in my home church community. Hearing worship songs and sermons in a language that I can understand has brought deep conviction and encouragement.

I wanted to share in this blog post about a sermon I heard this past weekend.  I don’t remember a sermon in recent memory that has impacted me more. It was the first sermon of a three week series called: “Can I Get A Witness.” It was given by Nick Cunningham at Ginghamsburg Church (www.ginghamsburg.org).

Nick talked about how if we are really moved by something then it’s innate in us to share it.  For example, if someone sees a you-tube video that makes him or her laugh, that person usually shares it and that’s how many videos have gone “viral.” 

Then we were challenged…are we moved enough by our connection and experience with Jesus that we want to share Him with others?  

We were led to read Luke 5:17-26. There a familiar story was read about how four guys carried their paralyzed friend on a mat and took him to Jesus. When they couldn’t get through because of the crowd, they cut a hole in the roof and lowered their friend down right in front of Jesus. There, Jesus forgave the man’s sins and healed him. AMAZING- the faith of these four friends!

Luke 5:17-26

One day He was teaching; and there were some Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was present for Him to perform healing.  And some men were carrying on a bed a man who was paralyzed; and they were trying to bring him in and to set him down in front of Him.  But not finding any way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down through the tiles with his stretcher, into the middle of the crowd, in front of Jesus.  Seeing their faith, He said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven you.” The scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, “Who is this man who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?”  But Jesus, aware of their reasonings, answered and said to them, “Why are you reasoning in your hearts?  Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins have been forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?  But, so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,”—He said to the paralytic—“I say to you, get up, and pick up your stretcher and go home.”  Immediately he got up before them, and picked up what he had been lying on, and went home glorifying God. They were all struck with astonishment and began glorifying God; and they were filled with fear, saying, “We have seen remarkable things today.”

It was noted that these friends had BIG HEARTS- big compassion for their friend that drove them.

They also had a BIG BELIEF IN JESUS- in His ability that without a doubt He could help their friend.

We were then asked….Do you have BIG HEART for those around you? Do you believe enough in the power of Jesus to carry your friends, neighbors, your co-workers, your family, even strangers to Him?

We were asked : who are each of you “carrying the mat” for? Who are you praying daily for? Did I know anyone who needed Jesus- His restoration, His salvation, His hope, His grace, His peace, His healing, His love?  Of course, each of us knew so MANY. So, why wasn’t I, why weren’t we, taking him or her or them to Jesus?  We’re called to “carry the mat” and take people to Jesus.

My sister and I discussed the message all the way home and we began a new prayer time right in the car that night for some people we knew needed a touch from Jesus. 

I’ve been thinking more this past week about this message. When we ourselves are struggling or hurting, we often don’t take ourselves to Jesus first. We try eating or shopping or complaining. Or maybe we ignore the problem or maybe exercise to try to reduce our stress and anxiety,  to forget or cover our weak areas or stumbles.  Yet, it’s Jesus we need. 

Sometimes too when we see others who are struggling or those who are injured, we often cross to the other side of the street or room to avoid them.  We don’t want to get involved. Or maybe we point these people’s struggles out to them or others.  When really they just need to be put on a mat and taken to Jesus!

What does “carrying the mat” look like? How do you or can you “take people to Jesus?”  I believe there are many ways. You “witness” about Him and show people Him by your testimony, your love, your compassion, your honesty, your humility, your lifestyle. Maybe you invite a person to church or study the Bible together. Maybe you provide “presence” to them when they’re in darkness or sorrow.  And one of the most powerful ways to take people to Jesus is through prayer. 

Jesus is the Good Shepherd, the Lion, the Lamb, the Light, the Truth, the Hope, the Peace, Our Way-Maker, Our Storm-Calmer. Our Redeemer. Our Healer.  Our Savior. We can carry people to Jesus in prayer!

May we get and stay in the presence of our King and Savior because He is what we need.

And may we “carry the mat” for others who need him as well!!!

Galatians 6:2

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Onward with You!

Prayer Requests

-I’ve extended my time in the USA for another month, please pray a restful time for me with my family.

-Please pray for the staff and students at Hope University College in Addis- as many start returning back from break time, that God will begin to prepare hearts and minds for a good start to a new school year.

-Ethiopia has its new year’s celebration on September 11, please pray for this beautiful country that as the new year is celebrated- that God will bless Ethiopia in a deep and new way in the new year ahead!

-Please pray for my book, I’m still writing.

-Please pray for my way ahead, that God will make His perfect plan clear for me, where and how I can best be used.

Thank you so much for your faithful partnership!

SPRING CLEANING IN JULY and CULTURE SHOCK

The weeks after our semester’s end, I did “spring cleaning” in July.  Have you ever done cleaning a few seasons late? That was me. The weather was not good for spring cleaning (tons of rain), and my closets, files, and office were too packed.

My goal was to get this major cleaning done during my semester “break” before traveling to the USA in August for some rest. It’s funny how our “breaks” often become filled with other projects, usually things we should have been doing all along. 

It was SO MUCH to sort.  I made some observations…

THERE WERE…

Treasures Discovered- things lost earlier in the year, I found…like a hairbrush, a favorite mirror, old books

Trash- There was trash- things that should have been thrown away, outdated meds, old calendars, etc.

Too Much of Certain Things- There was too much of things I really didn’t need. Why do I have 5 tubes of USB 50 when I usually use USB 4 or less, and do I really need 7 packages of wet wipes?  Where did all this extra stuff come from?

Too Little of Other Things- There were too little of needed supplies.  Where did my needed medicine go, I’m almost out of toothpaste…

All of the sorting, cleaning, etc.,   reminded me of how easy it is to let our lives, our homes, our minds, our schedules become cluttered.

And in that clutter ... sometimes we lose things of value; we hold onto things that need trashed; we run low on needed supplies; and we don’t share.

Clutter can not just be material things or appointments, but we also tend to hold onto things like past mistakes, old fears and bad habits, old insecurities.

I was excited to board the plane to the USA last Sunday evening- because the clutter from my past several semesters of teaching in Ethiopia was largely clear. 

There’s something great about cleanness and good organization- a simplified life that honors God.

If you are like me, a few seasons behind or maybe a decade behind in cleaning closets, or your life, mind, schedule, heart- no day is better than today to begin. 

Hebrews 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith…

Well, this past Monday I re-entered my home country (the USA) after eight months in Ethiopia.  I was heading home for some of my “break time” from teaching in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital city, where I have lived for two years.

My closets, etc., were clean back in Addis, which felt great, but I experienced some big culture shock as I traveled west.

I recorded some of my observations as I re-entered my home country…

Things were…FAST AND ORDERLY, no one cut in lines or invaded my personal space (which I loved).

Everyone seemed POLITE overall and well-mannered, though LACKING DEPTH in conversation.

There were BRIGHT LIGHTS.

So much was AUTOMATED- from passport control in Chicago- to toilet seat covers that you swipe your hand over and it gives you a clean seat to sit on…to moving sidewalks…WOW

In the airports, everyone had GADGETS… i-phones; i-pads, laptops, etc.  Young and old, everyone seemed busy looking at their own business. 

It was MULTI-SENSORY OVERLOAD- and from a largely man-made environment (in Ethiopia- my senses are usually overloaded too- but it’s sounds of birds or cows and sights and smells of outside- not man-made, artificial environment stuff)

There was DIVERSITY. Everyone looked different and interesting to me.  I could have sat and watched people for hours.  And I wasn’t a minority anymore, yet no one noticed me, that was a shock.

On Arrival at my Home in Ohio…there has been…

-a big soft bed

-soft and consistent and safe water

-our climate controlled, comfortable house

-food choices and TV channel choices, medicine and makeup choices, so many choices

-consistent electricity and internet

-my car and paved roads with everyone obeying the same rules (for the most part)

And of course, there has been my TRIBE…my parents, my sister and our dog…. WHICH HAS BEEN MY FAVORITE …what great reunion times we’ve had so far!!!

My Mom, Dad, and my sister- Noel, Summer 2013

All of this culture shock this past week…has had me thinking a lot about how much our environment affects our worldview. 

When people meet me anywhere, can they immediately tell besides my skin color and American English what environment I spent most of my life in? 

Is my eternal home evident to others?

Do I seem well rounded or well grounded?

Do I see myself as humanity’s Savior and people get that pride or American cowgirl, superhero complex that we often get from being American?  or am I representing  clearly the ONLY One who can save?

Do I look like a commercial for freedom of expression, religion, etc… or am I representing the only One who gives ultimate FREEDOM?

May others see in me that my true residency and “home” is an eternal one!

May people see something-someone different in me… the wisdom, the love, the compassion, the conviction, that is deeper than any earthly society and represents our Creator- One is who is Love.

And in whatever environment I live in for whatever season wherever God has me … may this deeper culture that comes from the King of this kingdom be evident in me….so much so- that others want to know about this King I live for!

May God help us as we continue on the journey!

2 Corinthians 5:20

We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us….

Matthew 5:14

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.

John 15:19

If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.

Colossians 1:9-14

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

PRAISES-PRAYER REQUESTS

-I praise God for arriving home safely Monday night, travel was smooth- despite an international travel alert for North Africa that went up the day I traveled- and a surprise landing in Cairo- having to refuel, God is BIGGER than any threat!

-I praise God for the time I’ve been enjoying with my Dad, Mom and Sister

-I praise God that my Dad had a GREAT medical check-up this past week. The doctor did an x-ray on his neck, and things looked great. 

-Please pray for the one month, maybe two, that I have now in the USA- that I can rest, reflect and pray on His best plan for the time ahead

-Please pray for all in Ethiopia- that are in my heart … for staff, students, friends and neighbors-that God will keep them and bless them

-Please keep Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa overall in prayer

-Please pray for my financial and prayer support raising- that God will provide

-Please pray for many I know- who are starting new global positions or who are in transition for work- that God will bless and continue to open things up

-Please pray for my book draft, I’m still working on it

Thank you for your prayers and partnership so much!  Let me know how I can pray for you as well! Please email or facebook message me!  I hope to see many of you in person soon or talk by phone.

So grateful to be on the journey with you!!!!

Blessings to you this August, fall season!

A MACCHIATO CUP

Having lived in Ethiopia for almost two years now, I definitely have a favorite type of coffee.  In this land where coffee was founded, there are many choices. But for me, my favorite is called a macchiato- it’s a mix of coffee and milk and wow, I love it!

When I was first given one here back in 2008, I quickly downed it and needed another. There’s a culture here of SIPPING coffee or tea SLOWLY and talking with others for LONG hours about life, family, village and world news.  I still usually need at least two macchiatos.  I'm used to my BIG SIZE cups of coffee, ha ha.

And maybe I’ve been here too long, but I also have a favorite kind of cup that a macchiato is served in.  The best macchiato to me is served in a simple clear glass.  For me, I don’t like the fancy or tourist type cups.  I like to see what’s on the inside.

A few days ago, I was smiling at my second macchiato when it came out in my favorite clear cup- and this got me thinking about life overall.

Our bodies, the clay-mud tents that hold our lives and spirits- come in different shapes, sizes, colors.  Does my body, like a clear macchiato glass, clearly reflect what is inside of me?  And if so- what do people see?

I think our bodies are fascinating overall.  But I’m also well aware as I’m now getting older, that my body is definitely under the effects of what happened in the Garden of Eden long ago.  Things have started to fall apart. Bones deteriorate. Hair grays ....what? Metabolism slows.  Is that a wrinkle???  It can be downright depressing some days.

How can I best keep my body in good health? Right exercise, a good diet, good sleep, and plenty of water are all important.  But I also have learned that keeping my life pure and clean is also very important- so what’s inside of me can be seen and when that content is seen- it honors God. 

We all have brokenness, sin, scars in our lives.  But in the heart of every believer should be the mark of a cross and the presence of a Savior that covers ALL and there’s a life and storyline that has been redeemed. This is what the world needs to see!!! Scars can be testimonies of grace. A life transformed and transforming is the greatest advertisement of God’s grace and love to the world and this gives great hope!

Our bodies often need repair. Our minds- our hearts- checked.  Is our cup-our life- CLEAN?  Is the content of our lives clean?

When people see me or you, do they see irritation, fatigue, greed, shallowness, selfishness, pride, emptiness… or do they see a Savior and someone loved and accepted by God- and extending that love horizontally to others?

We must allow God to pour into our lives daily- thru His Word and prayer and fellowship. He has wisdom, encouragement, direction, peace, joy, hope to give. God can purify our inside.  And He desires us to be holy and set apart for Him.

1 Peter 1:16
Be holy because I am holy

2 Corinthians 7:1

Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

1 John 3:3

All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

May I not desire a fancy cup, an outside exterior, to hold my life.  May my exterior not be fake or one that hides the presence of a Savior that the world needs to see and meet.  Jesus warned about this…

Matthew 23:25-26
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.

May our lives honor and reflect our God always.  I’ve been reflecting on these verses this past week...

Matthew 5:8

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

John 15:4, 14-16

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

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.

Matthew 5:16

…let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Hebrews 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith…

Psalm 51:10
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

2 Corinthians 5:20

We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us….

Psalm 119:11

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

2 Corinthians 4:7-12

 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.   We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.  For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body.   So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

Philippians 4:8

…whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

May God Help Us on the Journey!

Onward with You!!!

Prayer Requests

-Please pray for my safe travel home this Sunday (August 4) and a good month of rest with my family in the US of A

-Please pray for funds I will need to raise to come back to Ethiopia in September, I will need one time support for airfare and supplies, and new or continued monthly support (if you'd like to join my prayer or financial team- please email me at: a.in.africa@gmail.com)

-Please pray for our students and staff on break now, that it’s restful and good for them

-Please pray for my book, I’m still continuing to write

-Please pray for God’s best plan for my way ahead, that I'm obedient and effective wherever He leads me