"When I think of the wisdom and scope of God's plan, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will give you mighty inner strength through his Holy Spirit. And I pray that Christ will be more and ore at home in your hearts as you trust in him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever and ever through endless ages. Amen." Ephesians 3:14-21 (NLT)
What a lovely, all encompassing prayer. I've got lots to say about it, reflecting on various parts. It speaks to my soul. So instead of giving my commentary, I'm leaving it to the Holy Spirit to speak to your soul, as well. God bless and keep you.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Why I Knit
Years ago in Bolivia, I learned to quilt. I loved it. It was a lot of work, but I really enjoyed making various things.
But I can't quilt- easily- in Uganda. It is hard to find some of the supplies, although of course there are fabulous fabrics in Africa. And there are so many bits and pieces to go along with quilting- needles, thread, numerous fabrics, a frame, a sewing machine (usually) and the batting. (note: I think there is a new term for batting, but apparently I'm too old to know it as yet).
Anyway, I HOPE to do some quilting when I go back this time.
So I was thinking of something else I might learn to do with my hands, which would be easier to carry around (vs. all my quilting supplies). I'd like to have something accessible to teach Africans, so they can learn a new skill, and maybe use the craft to make a living.
Well, in January, I went to my town's knitting store and took some lessons. I've made 3 scarves so far (for my sisters and my Mom), and have started 2 more learning different stitches to continue growing my skills. I’m itching to make a baby blanket or even an afghan, but with only 5 weeks left before I leave for Uganda, I will wait. Once I get these skills down, I'll be able to help dear African ladies, Lord willing.
Well, I met a number of neat ladies at my knitting classes, and one called me with some great news! She was helping a neighbor "downsize" some of her crafts items, and had some yarn to donate for me to take to Uganda. I picked it up today, expecting maybe a bag full of yarn. Nope, it was 5 huge lawn/leaf bags full of 287 skeins of yarn! She estimated that it was about $3,000 worth of yarn- I can believe it since I've been learning prices of yarn. WOW- what a blessing!
Yarn is available in Uganda, but not the quality or colors that they gave me today. So to the best we can, I'm trying to get the yarn to Uganda. And this afternoon I was chatting online with my friend Delight (WGM missionary) in Uganda and told her about the yarn.
She got excited and said she has a contact who is shipping a container to Uganda, who can probably take all the yarn for us! And she also volunteered to help me teach ladies how to knit or crochet (she knows how to do that). Fun! Won't this be an exciting outreach? Pray for us to be able to get the yarn to Uganda okay, and to have opportunities to minister to women with this craft. Yep, I still need to go get some extra needles and hooks, but I'm definitely set in the yarn department.
This is a "potato chip scarf" (I'd call it a cork screw scarf) which I made for my sister Abby. We chose the yarn to work with her coat, and I was surprised to find how quickly the yarn colors changed. On my Mom's and sister's scarves, the change from one color to another (their yarns were also multicolored) took longer. So Abby's scarf turned out looking a lot more camouflage than we anticipated, but it ended up being cute. Since it is camouflage, can you see it? Ha. :)
But I can't quilt- easily- in Uganda. It is hard to find some of the supplies, although of course there are fabulous fabrics in Africa. And there are so many bits and pieces to go along with quilting- needles, thread, numerous fabrics, a frame, a sewing machine (usually) and the batting. (note: I think there is a new term for batting, but apparently I'm too old to know it as yet).
Anyway, I HOPE to do some quilting when I go back this time.
So I was thinking of something else I might learn to do with my hands, which would be easier to carry around (vs. all my quilting supplies). I'd like to have something accessible to teach Africans, so they can learn a new skill, and maybe use the craft to make a living.
Well, in January, I went to my town's knitting store and took some lessons. I've made 3 scarves so far (for my sisters and my Mom), and have started 2 more learning different stitches to continue growing my skills. I’m itching to make a baby blanket or even an afghan, but with only 5 weeks left before I leave for Uganda, I will wait. Once I get these skills down, I'll be able to help dear African ladies, Lord willing.
Well, I met a number of neat ladies at my knitting classes, and one called me with some great news! She was helping a neighbor "downsize" some of her crafts items, and had some yarn to donate for me to take to Uganda. I picked it up today, expecting maybe a bag full of yarn. Nope, it was 5 huge lawn/leaf bags full of 287 skeins of yarn! She estimated that it was about $3,000 worth of yarn- I can believe it since I've been learning prices of yarn. WOW- what a blessing!
Yarn is available in Uganda, but not the quality or colors that they gave me today. So to the best we can, I'm trying to get the yarn to Uganda. And this afternoon I was chatting online with my friend Delight (WGM missionary) in Uganda and told her about the yarn.
She got excited and said she has a contact who is shipping a container to Uganda, who can probably take all the yarn for us! And she also volunteered to help me teach ladies how to knit or crochet (she knows how to do that). Fun! Won't this be an exciting outreach? Pray for us to be able to get the yarn to Uganda okay, and to have opportunities to minister to women with this craft. Yep, I still need to go get some extra needles and hooks, but I'm definitely set in the yarn department.
This is a "potato chip scarf" (I'd call it a cork screw scarf) which I made for my sister Abby. We chose the yarn to work with her coat, and I was surprised to find how quickly the yarn colors changed. On my Mom's and sister's scarves, the change from one color to another (their yarns were also multicolored) took longer. So Abby's scarf turned out looking a lot more camouflage than we anticipated, but it ended up being cute. Since it is camouflage, can you see it? Ha. :)
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Election Results
Well, according to my friends (missionary and local) in Uganda, and according to the newspapers, the incumbent, Museveni, has won the Presidential election. News will trickle in over the next days, and of course there are already opponents crying foul. Whatever the case and results, I still ask for you to pray for peace and safety, and that no matter who reacts how, that nobody will OVER-react, since so often that can get out of hand quickly.
Do pray for Uganda as a whole. There is a lot of good in this beloved nation, and yet there are many steps to making it grow. It is most definitely still ranked as 3rd world, and disease, starvation, poor edcuation (for the majority), etc., are common. Above all, the people need personal relationships with Jesus Christ. So I'm also praying for open hearts and minds so that the Lord Himself will tranform this country.
Thank you for your prayers and care. I've linked today's election results article from Yahoo, as you will see. There are also other articles available on the two main Ugandan newspapers, (The New Vision, the State-owned paper, and The Daily Monitor, which I believe is privately owned).
Do pray for Uganda as a whole. There is a lot of good in this beloved nation, and yet there are many steps to making it grow. It is most definitely still ranked as 3rd world, and disease, starvation, poor edcuation (for the majority), etc., are common. Above all, the people need personal relationships with Jesus Christ. So I'm also praying for open hearts and minds so that the Lord Himself will tranform this country.
Thank you for your prayers and care. I've linked today's election results article from Yahoo, as you will see. There are also other articles available on the two main Ugandan newspapers, (The New Vision, the State-owned paper, and The Daily Monitor, which I believe is privately owned).
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Pray for Uganda Elections
February 18 and 19 are the national elections for Uganda. Will you please pray for peaceful, safe, fair elections and results? There are numerous parties seeking nationwide positions, including the presidency.
I am a missionary called to serve there, and I wish to remain neutral so I can be a better minister of the gospel. I only wish to see that justice and calm reign, with people seeking to work together.
I pray that somehow, as the Lord leads, people will come to know Him as Savior. Join me in these prayers and wishes for this nation. Thank you!
I am a missionary called to serve there, and I wish to remain neutral so I can be a better minister of the gospel. I only wish to see that justice and calm reign, with people seeking to work together.
I pray that somehow, as the Lord leads, people will come to know Him as Savior. Join me in these prayers and wishes for this nation. Thank you!
Where I Stand
Well, as of today, I need $256/month in pledges, plus about $3,000 cash for one-time expenses. I've had a number of people join my prayer team, but more are always welcome.
I just counted. I have less than 8 weeks before I leave for Uganda. Oh my! That is shocking! The time is coming up quickly; rushing ahead in fact. I'm not worried about the funding coming in; the Lord will provide as He sees fit. He is aware that I need to be back in Uganda helping at Heritage and in the Africa Gospel Church. But do you ever say, "Okay Lord, you can do that thing now so we don't have it hanging overhead!"?
I know, I know. His watch is set differently. And meanwhile, I do have my class to finish, as well as working on the actual license renewal paperwork. I've got some speaking engagements in PA and NJ in late March, and then packing and goodbyes.
When I put the list together like that, it can make me breathless and a bit overwhelmed. But here is where I stand: under the wings of Jesus. My days are ordered by the Lord and He has good plans, even in the rush of time.
Pray with me that all my funding will come in soon, for the class to go well and in a timely manner, that I will be patient and trust the Lord for His provision and for all the things He is currently teaching me. Pray for my continued travels and meetings, and eventual goodbyes. The Lord is so good; he can be trusted to care for all these things and more. So I choose to stand in His grace, mercy and provision. I pray you choose that same place today!
I just counted. I have less than 8 weeks before I leave for Uganda. Oh my! That is shocking! The time is coming up quickly; rushing ahead in fact. I'm not worried about the funding coming in; the Lord will provide as He sees fit. He is aware that I need to be back in Uganda helping at Heritage and in the Africa Gospel Church. But do you ever say, "Okay Lord, you can do that thing now so we don't have it hanging overhead!"?
I know, I know. His watch is set differently. And meanwhile, I do have my class to finish, as well as working on the actual license renewal paperwork. I've got some speaking engagements in PA and NJ in late March, and then packing and goodbyes.
When I put the list together like that, it can make me breathless and a bit overwhelmed. But here is where I stand: under the wings of Jesus. My days are ordered by the Lord and He has good plans, even in the rush of time.
Pray with me that all my funding will come in soon, for the class to go well and in a timely manner, that I will be patient and trust the Lord for His provision and for all the things He is currently teaching me. Pray for my continued travels and meetings, and eventual goodbyes. The Lord is so good; he can be trusted to care for all these things and more. So I choose to stand in His grace, mercy and provision. I pray you choose that same place today!
A Visit To Michigan
Here we are in Frankenmuth, Michigan. It has been a wonderful time to see my sister Karen and her family during our overlapping furloughs. Usually our furloughs don't match up, so the time together has been a blessing. This was my last time to see them before I go back to Uganda in April (they return to Cameroon in June), and I'm not sure what year I'll see them again. While in the USA, they base themselves outside of Flint, MI.
The weekend together was special, and I'm so glad we could go. Mom and I traveled up from Indy and got to do several things with the family. On Saturday, we went to Frankenmuth, a Bavarian town about 30 minutes away. There are a lot of tourist shops, outlets, and interesting local things to see. We enjoyed looking in the shops and seeing the ice sculpture displays everywhere, and our German meal at the Bavarian Inn was delicious!
Dave was speaking at their home/sending church on Sunday in both morning and night services, so we got to hear Dave preach and also see their presentation. Meeting some of their kind church friends was neat as well. We also got to have a delicious lunch out with Dave's family at an Italian restaurant. Playing board games with the family also created some more sweet memories.
The town of Frankenmuth is built and decorated in Bavarian themes. Despite it being the middle of winter, there were a lot of people and activities filling the town.
Zac "models" some interesting tea being sold in one of the shops. I don't know the brand, but one flavor was called "Get Lost" and the other flavor was "Get Some Zzzs". Funny marketing.
Above and below: the Bavarian Inn is a huge restaurant, with shops, hotel and pools, etc. A prime destination for many tourists.
Funny sign at the restaurant. Thanks, AJ & Zac, for being good sports and posing for me! :)
A kind person at Dave & Karen's church took this second group photo for us.
The Past Month
I have no photo for this entry. Sorry, but it isn't very exciting to take a picture of my nose in a book. That is what I've been trying to do lately as I seek to earn credit and renew my state teacher's license. It is an interesting course, concerning including students with special needs in the general classroom, but finding motivation is a stretch some days.
There is a ton of reading and I'm easily distracted by - well- you name it. Phone calls, answering emails I need to get to, and doing other necessary ministry activities which sometimes need immdiate attention. I'm still not fully funded (read entry titled "Where I Stand" above) so I've got that as a distraction, as well. I've been (happily) seeing some supporters and/or friends as well. Friends are not distracting, but indeed time away from the books does- well- take me from the books. (my logic is amazing, eh?)
If you think of it, pray for me to have more motivation. I'm about 1/4 done, and am hoping to have it completed by mid-March, Lord willing. Thanks for your prayers!
There is a ton of reading and I'm easily distracted by - well- you name it. Phone calls, answering emails I need to get to, and doing other necessary ministry activities which sometimes need immdiate attention. I'm still not fully funded (read entry titled "Where I Stand" above) so I've got that as a distraction, as well. I've been (happily) seeing some supporters and/or friends as well. Friends are not distracting, but indeed time away from the books does- well- take me from the books. (my logic is amazing, eh?)
If you think of it, pray for me to have more motivation. I'm about 1/4 done, and am hoping to have it completed by mid-March, Lord willing. Thanks for your prayers!
Winter 2011
I am not sure, but I THINK my neighbor has a Tulip tree. Whatever these are, (I think they are maybe last season's tulip leaf buds?) they were so pretty as they held snow. We got 6 inches that day. It fell on top of 1 inch of ice. Which had fallen on 2 inches of sleet pellets. Which had fallen on the nearly 2 inches of ice from the first storm. My oh my. What a winter! FYI today, about 10 days later, it was 45 and the ice is finally melting off the driveway. I couldn't shovel it all last week, so I had left it to melt whenever we would get warmer weather. Temps have been about 7 degrees F., but by the weekend, they say it will be 60! Yowzah!
My Mom's house in the snow.
Flowers, trees and grasses after the ice and snow storms. I am trying to be a creative and better photographer. Sometimes I hit the mark but many times I'm off. I want "the photographers eye!"... some day maybe. :)
Outside our back door; anyone want to sit on the swings?
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Independent or Dependent? (A.K.A. God gets the Glory!!!)
I was miffed and discouraged this morning when I found out that I have yet another unexpected bill to pay in Uganda. The electric company has increased the power going to my house (and others in my neighborhood there) to more than 240v. It has been “blowing up” household fans and smaller appliances. My house has a regulator, meaning something to control these inconsistent bursts of power. But I need a newer and bigger one. It will cost around $1,300. Ugh.
I remember when I first went to Uganda. It took nearly 3 years to get all the “bugs” worked out of the electric in my home, plus putting lightning rods on the roof, getting a generator AND an inverter (a house “battery pack”). It was so costly, and so frustrating. But God provided.
Yesterday I wrote a long prayer journal asking God to help me not be so independent. I know He has given me a “strong” (you can read bossy and opinionated in that– sorry to say) personality. I do not like it. I want to be gentle and quiet and peaceful. But every time I think I’ve got hold of His hand, like a little girl walking beside Him, suddenly something distracts me. Yes, I could own one of those tee shirts that says, “Easily Distrac…” and it would be true of me.
But in a spiritual sense, this is NOT cool. I let go of the Lord’s hand way to easily, running out on my own to inspect something pretty and, well, worldly. Or I get involved in time wasters and brain-killers (A.K.A. TV or movies) that are not horrible, but they distract my focus from Jesus and His glory and power.
The worst, though, is when I think I can stand alone. I can’t. I need the Rock of Jesus Christ under me, His strong arms around me, His Voice in my ear. Without those things going on, my heart can become “dark” and I certainly don’t please or honor Him. I miss out on so much when I’m distracted; when I’m not connected to Him.
So at the end of my prayer asking the Lord to help me not be so independent, I asked Him if he wouldn’t take that quality away, would He at least grow me in this area, so I might draw closer to Him. I asked that I might somehow give Him glory, even through this “weakness” of being strong.
And yet at the first test, meaning the news of even more funds to raise, I failed miserably– but only for an hour this time. My heart sunk and I was upset that yet another thing might inhibit me from a timely return to Uganda.
Yet He reminded me of that prayer yesterday. He reminded me that He indeed is strong. That He has good plans. That this world will never be a safe and smooth ride. He reminded me that He is in control and I only need to hold onto Him.
He also reminded me that there are countless people in this world with nothing. The Haiti one-year anniversary of the earthquake was yesterday. They are struggling so much. My Ugandan day-guard Peter, who cares for his own 8 children and those of his half-brother, plus his wife had breast cancer in 2010, and yet Peter doesn’t complain. God reminded me of so many Americans who have lost their jobs, their homes even. He reminded me of so much war, suffering and injustice in this world. And He reminded me that He has provided exactly what I have needed in funding and prayer support over the years. So what on earth was I so bummed about?!
Once again, my vision got off Jesus and onto the crashing waves of this world. But He was holding me the whole time. And then He reminded me that “And this same God… will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19, NLT.
I memorized this verse as a little girl, from the KJV. Is it as true now as it was then? Absolutely. Are His promises for others, or for me as well? They are for me– they are for you, if you believe.
I choose to believe. I choose to trust. I choose to let him do whatever He wants in and through me. I choose to go according to His timeline and not my own. Mine says I am to return to Uganda on April 11. I’m praying that it is His date, too. But it really is His and not mine to decide. So I choose the words that so many say (when they refer to the Latin), “Deo Volente”, meaning “God willing”.
Just as a brief aside: when I looked online to find the older (KJV) version of the above verse in Philippians, I put in a key word of “provide”. It is in scripture a TON. So is the word “give” (or derivatives), and so forth. They all talk about God giving and providing for us. Yet we still grab and grasp for more. Oh, Lord. Forgive me and help me not be greedy. Help me rest in your arms, content in your provision.
Do you trust the Lord today to provide for you? Can you? I choose to trust Him still. To run to Him for all my needs– whether as a missionary raising support, or as His child in need of direction, refinement, or comfort. I choose to be obedient and humble, allowing Him to speak to me and, Lord willing, through me. Deo Volente; God willing– He will get the glory. After all, it’s all about Him, no matter where He puts me or how or when. And so, Lord Jesus, once again I surrender to your “Volente”; your will.
Think of it this way; maybe He is allowing increases in costs/fund raising just as a set-up, so that in the end He comes of with some awesome miracle which brings Him even more glory? Well- I CAN trust Him. I love those powerful endings in Bible stories, where the things can't be explained except through the Lord's intervention and power. Think of it- the fiery furnace, the parting of the Red Sea, the Resurrection of Christ from the grave! He certainly gets the glory in those and countless other things! So LET HIM have the glory- in my life, and I pray in your life too! May He be glorified and honored this day.
“Soli Deo Gloria”… Glory to God alone. Amen.
I remember when I first went to Uganda. It took nearly 3 years to get all the “bugs” worked out of the electric in my home, plus putting lightning rods on the roof, getting a generator AND an inverter (a house “battery pack”). It was so costly, and so frustrating. But God provided.
Yesterday I wrote a long prayer journal asking God to help me not be so independent. I know He has given me a “strong” (you can read bossy and opinionated in that– sorry to say) personality. I do not like it. I want to be gentle and quiet and peaceful. But every time I think I’ve got hold of His hand, like a little girl walking beside Him, suddenly something distracts me. Yes, I could own one of those tee shirts that says, “Easily Distrac…” and it would be true of me.
But in a spiritual sense, this is NOT cool. I let go of the Lord’s hand way to easily, running out on my own to inspect something pretty and, well, worldly. Or I get involved in time wasters and brain-killers (A.K.A. TV or movies) that are not horrible, but they distract my focus from Jesus and His glory and power.
The worst, though, is when I think I can stand alone. I can’t. I need the Rock of Jesus Christ under me, His strong arms around me, His Voice in my ear. Without those things going on, my heart can become “dark” and I certainly don’t please or honor Him. I miss out on so much when I’m distracted; when I’m not connected to Him.
So at the end of my prayer asking the Lord to help me not be so independent, I asked Him if he wouldn’t take that quality away, would He at least grow me in this area, so I might draw closer to Him. I asked that I might somehow give Him glory, even through this “weakness” of being strong.
And yet at the first test, meaning the news of even more funds to raise, I failed miserably– but only for an hour this time. My heart sunk and I was upset that yet another thing might inhibit me from a timely return to Uganda.
Yet He reminded me of that prayer yesterday. He reminded me that He indeed is strong. That He has good plans. That this world will never be a safe and smooth ride. He reminded me that He is in control and I only need to hold onto Him.
He also reminded me that there are countless people in this world with nothing. The Haiti one-year anniversary of the earthquake was yesterday. They are struggling so much. My Ugandan day-guard Peter, who cares for his own 8 children and those of his half-brother, plus his wife had breast cancer in 2010, and yet Peter doesn’t complain. God reminded me of so many Americans who have lost their jobs, their homes even. He reminded me of so much war, suffering and injustice in this world. And He reminded me that He has provided exactly what I have needed in funding and prayer support over the years. So what on earth was I so bummed about?!
Once again, my vision got off Jesus and onto the crashing waves of this world. But He was holding me the whole time. And then He reminded me that “And this same God… will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19, NLT.
I memorized this verse as a little girl, from the KJV. Is it as true now as it was then? Absolutely. Are His promises for others, or for me as well? They are for me– they are for you, if you believe.
I choose to believe. I choose to trust. I choose to let him do whatever He wants in and through me. I choose to go according to His timeline and not my own. Mine says I am to return to Uganda on April 11. I’m praying that it is His date, too. But it really is His and not mine to decide. So I choose the words that so many say (when they refer to the Latin), “Deo Volente”, meaning “God willing”.
Just as a brief aside: when I looked online to find the older (KJV) version of the above verse in Philippians, I put in a key word of “provide”. It is in scripture a TON. So is the word “give” (or derivatives), and so forth. They all talk about God giving and providing for us. Yet we still grab and grasp for more. Oh, Lord. Forgive me and help me not be greedy. Help me rest in your arms, content in your provision.
Do you trust the Lord today to provide for you? Can you? I choose to trust Him still. To run to Him for all my needs– whether as a missionary raising support, or as His child in need of direction, refinement, or comfort. I choose to be obedient and humble, allowing Him to speak to me and, Lord willing, through me. Deo Volente; God willing– He will get the glory. After all, it’s all about Him, no matter where He puts me or how or when. And so, Lord Jesus, once again I surrender to your “Volente”; your will.
Think of it this way; maybe He is allowing increases in costs/fund raising just as a set-up, so that in the end He comes of with some awesome miracle which brings Him even more glory? Well- I CAN trust Him. I love those powerful endings in Bible stories, where the things can't be explained except through the Lord's intervention and power. Think of it- the fiery furnace, the parting of the Red Sea, the Resurrection of Christ from the grave! He certainly gets the glory in those and countless other things! So LET HIM have the glory- in my life, and I pray in your life too! May He be glorified and honored this day.
“Soli Deo Gloria”… Glory to God alone. Amen.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Elections in Africa
'Tis the Season... to vote. Both Sudan (right now) and Uganda (February?) have national elections this year. Have you prayed for these nations?
I copied these photos off Ugandan newspapers, (The New Vision and the Daily Monitor). The Sudanese elections are going on all this week. The big vote? Whether north and south Sudan stay as one nation or split to two. Please pray for peace, fairness, and for strength and faithfulness of the Christians there. Pray they may endure and trust Christ despite their country's history and whatever future they may have. Pray more Sudanese will find Christ. I'm staying out of the political side of the vote as much as possible; I'm only asking for prayer for the people and the nation.
As to Uganda, the national elections are supposed to be in February, but there are rumors and questions if it might be pushed back to March. No matter when the elections will be, would you please also pray for peace and fairness there? In the past there have been accusations of vote-rigging, corruption, and even ignoring legal registrations by voters so they then couldn't vote on election days... I don't know what is truth or not, but I do know these dear people crave justice and hope. Pray they, too, will peacefully participate, and that many would trust Christ for their personal - spiritual- future, no matter what their political future might be.
Pray for the leadership and those running the electoral commissions of both nations. Pray for our missionaries and for their safety, and for those of us currently in the USA who are reporting to churches, raising funds, and heading back in the next months.
Thank you!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Christmas time!
Our Fish family Christmas was early-ish this year, as we tried to coordinate everyone's schedules. The whole family came to Indiana (to my Mom's house) on the 21st until the 25th.
My sister Abby has some friends who kindly opened their home to us for use of their home theatre. Their home itself was amazing, and it was fun to be in their 8-seat theatre enjoying a movie and popcorn. They even had a ticket booth at the entry to the theatre! My nephew AJ posed as a ticket master.
Attending a Christmas Eve service with my family was such a blessing. The church always does a candle light service at the end of the worship time.
Our family! This was our first Christmas together in 5 years. I thank the Lord for family and time together!
My sister Abby has some friends who kindly opened their home to us for use of their home theatre. Their home itself was amazing, and it was fun to be in their 8-seat theatre enjoying a movie and popcorn. They even had a ticket booth at the entry to the theatre! My nephew AJ posed as a ticket master.
Attending a Christmas Eve service with my family was such a blessing. The church always does a candle light service at the end of the worship time.
Our family! This was our first Christmas together in 5 years. I thank the Lord for family and time together!
Also while in Marion
Yeah, well I forgot to add this to my last entry and am now being lazy- not reopening the other entry to add this photo. It is (obviously) WGM HQ in Marion, IN. I THINK this was our first snow this year- that stayed on the ground I mean- and MAN the temps dropped when the weather changed. It was my first snow in a few years, since my last time I was in the USA.
While at HQ for the CHE training...
You'll need to read my next entry to know what CHE is. But I was in Marion, IN, at our World Gospel Mission HQ Nov. 28th to Dec. 5th. I was being trained in a conference during the days, but was also able to visit friends in the area.
Nathan and Stephanie and their children (remember I'm trying now to be safe and go nameless on children) were some of the friends I got to see while in Marion. I've known Nathan from when he was in grade 7 back at the Santa Cruz Christian Learning Center in Bolivia. His parents were my field directors for much of my time in Bolivia. When sweet little Stephanie (also a missionary kid- MK) transferred to our school (I think at grade 11 if I can remember right), oh my- that was the end of singleness for them both. So they've been married I think 12 years now, and it was such a joy to see them and their cute ones!
I stayed in Marion a few extra days after the CHE conference ended, since I was booked to speak at a local church, Lakeview Wesleyan, in Marion. My speaking time was to be Sunday a.m., but I happened to find out that they had a Christmas performance that Saturday night. Since I'm usually overseas for this time of year, I was very pleased to see the performance and once again worship with these dear folks!
Nathan and Stephanie and their children (remember I'm trying now to be safe and go nameless on children) were some of the friends I got to see while in Marion. I've known Nathan from when he was in grade 7 back at the Santa Cruz Christian Learning Center in Bolivia. His parents were my field directors for much of my time in Bolivia. When sweet little Stephanie (also a missionary kid- MK) transferred to our school (I think at grade 11 if I can remember right), oh my- that was the end of singleness for them both. So they've been married I think 12 years now, and it was such a joy to see them and their cute ones!
I stayed in Marion a few extra days after the CHE conference ended, since I was booked to speak at a local church, Lakeview Wesleyan, in Marion. My speaking time was to be Sunday a.m., but I happened to find out that they had a Christmas performance that Saturday night. Since I'm usually overseas for this time of year, I was very pleased to see the performance and once again worship with these dear folks!
CHE and what it is...
Less than 20 seconds after finishing the devotional booklet (see next blog entry) I received a Skype phone call from Dr. Rick Morse. I'm not sure why I answered, considering how I was looking. I had showered and only pinned up my wet hair, then put on some clunky reading glasses for staring at the computer and my Bible.... I'd been like that for a few hours, dressed in some sloppy "only for the house" shirt... and I answered the call. Rick "insisted" I go to video chat. I warned him it was NOT a pretty sight, but I opened up to video chat. He was warned- and scared I'm sure.
Anyway, Rick is an old college (yay Asbury!) friend and is our field medical doctor of sorts, as he and his wife (Teresa) live in Alabama but come to Uganda about twice a year. They are not to be confused with Pastor Rick and Janie, who are our field pastors, and also come to Uganda twice a year. :)
Rick was in Uganda for some meetings. He helped the field begin Community Health Evangelism in Uganda with WGM, and is a huge cheerleader for the ministries it can do. I'll explain more about what CHE is later.
He wanted to know why I wasn't signed up to go to the CHE training at our HQ in November/December. Frankly, I'd been too busy and was interested, but until I could get the devotional booklet completed, I didn't feel I could commit to a week of meetings away from the booklet. But God (don't you love when you find a "But God" in the Bible- and see how He works things out for good all the time?!)... But God had such good plans. He gave grace and wisdom for me to complete the devotional booklet EXACTLY when Rick was getting ready to invite me!
Long story short, I got to go. It was a wonderful experience with lots of teaching so I might use CHE principles in Uganda. Now- what is CHE? According to our WGM Compassionate Ministries director, Dr. Philip Renfroe, it is, "...to identify, equip, and encourage individuals working through their local churches for the goal of Holy Spirit-directed community transformation." (see the WGM Compassionate website here).
Let me give you an example, as each CHE ministry is different. My Mom was encouraged years ago to fill some Samaritan's Purse shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child. She has been doing these now for at least 10 years, and many times either my family or her coworkers or other friends have also made up boxes, and my Mom has seen to it that the boxes were dropped at a collection center. She has mobilized others for this unique ministry. That is all CHE is- making a positive ripple effect which impacts another's life.
Of course as Christians we want to impact lives so that those people we are reaching will somehow come to a saving knowledge of Christ, or be encouraged in their existing walk with Christ. Whether it is boxing up items in a shoe box, repairing a neighborhood bridge (a good CHE example for 3rd world situations), or some other thing, I got to be officially CHE-trained to now train others and encourage communities!
Sometimes in "closed countries", meaning places where the gospel is not welcome, CHE cannot be referred to as Community Health Evangelism (for obvious reasons). So in order to reach others in kindness and with the love of Christ, the name might be different but the idea is the same.
A number of WGM missionaries and leaders were able to attend the CHE training. We were delighted to also have non-WGM people attend.
At the end of the CHE training, we received certificates and all the materials so we might duplicate the program in our assigned fields of service. Above, John & Priscilla Kunkle, WGM missionaries to the Texas/Mexico border (and former missionaries to Bolivia) receive their diplomas from Dr. Philip Renfroe, David Hawk (WGM, El Salvador) and Dr. Rick Morse.
Anyway, Rick is an old college (yay Asbury!) friend and is our field medical doctor of sorts, as he and his wife (Teresa) live in Alabama but come to Uganda about twice a year. They are not to be confused with Pastor Rick and Janie, who are our field pastors, and also come to Uganda twice a year. :)
Rick was in Uganda for some meetings. He helped the field begin Community Health Evangelism in Uganda with WGM, and is a huge cheerleader for the ministries it can do. I'll explain more about what CHE is later.
He wanted to know why I wasn't signed up to go to the CHE training at our HQ in November/December. Frankly, I'd been too busy and was interested, but until I could get the devotional booklet completed, I didn't feel I could commit to a week of meetings away from the booklet. But God (don't you love when you find a "But God" in the Bible- and see how He works things out for good all the time?!)... But God had such good plans. He gave grace and wisdom for me to complete the devotional booklet EXACTLY when Rick was getting ready to invite me!
Long story short, I got to go. It was a wonderful experience with lots of teaching so I might use CHE principles in Uganda. Now- what is CHE? According to our WGM Compassionate Ministries director, Dr. Philip Renfroe, it is, "...to identify, equip, and encourage individuals working through their local churches for the goal of Holy Spirit-directed community transformation." (see the WGM Compassionate website here).
Let me give you an example, as each CHE ministry is different. My Mom was encouraged years ago to fill some Samaritan's Purse shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child. She has been doing these now for at least 10 years, and many times either my family or her coworkers or other friends have also made up boxes, and my Mom has seen to it that the boxes were dropped at a collection center. She has mobilized others for this unique ministry. That is all CHE is- making a positive ripple effect which impacts another's life.
Of course as Christians we want to impact lives so that those people we are reaching will somehow come to a saving knowledge of Christ, or be encouraged in their existing walk with Christ. Whether it is boxing up items in a shoe box, repairing a neighborhood bridge (a good CHE example for 3rd world situations), or some other thing, I got to be officially CHE-trained to now train others and encourage communities!
Sometimes in "closed countries", meaning places where the gospel is not welcome, CHE cannot be referred to as Community Health Evangelism (for obvious reasons). So in order to reach others in kindness and with the love of Christ, the name might be different but the idea is the same.
A number of WGM missionaries and leaders were able to attend the CHE training. We were delighted to also have non-WGM people attend.
At the end of the CHE training, we received certificates and all the materials so we might duplicate the program in our assigned fields of service. Above, John & Priscilla Kunkle, WGM missionaries to the Texas/Mexico border (and former missionaries to Bolivia) receive their diplomas from Dr. Philip Renfroe, David Hawk (WGM, El Salvador) and Dr. Rick Morse.
The Devotional Booklet is DONE!!!
For nearly a year, I'd been asking for prayer and contributions to create a 90 day devotional booklet for our Africa Gospel Church (AGC) youth. About 90% of all students in Uganda attend boarding school; it is just the cultural way. But so many don't receive encouragement from a local church if they are at boarding school. We thought that if they had a brief reading each day of their (usual) 90-day term, some might be saved, while others might grow or be encouraged in their faith. We also believe these daily entries might be used as brief Bible studies for small groups or even Sunday school classes.
The writing was completed just before Thanksgiving. I even had a wonderful volunteer to edit and re-check my typing (thanks Nancy!). So many dear people emailed entries, from Africa and across the USA! Adapting them to Ugandan culture was my job (so blame me if there are errors!), as well as writing some of the entries. Right now, they're in the printing stage- including layout and re-checking before actual printing is done. They are being printed in Uganda by our very own WGM Uganda missionary, a professional printer, Kenneth Hopson!
SO MANY people have had a hand in this process; Praise the Lord for the ways He uses to unify His body and train us all! May we all bring Him glory! Thank you all who have prayed for and contributed to this process!
Do please pray for the last steps as they are completed. Communicating long-distance with Mugisha (Youth Ministries Coordinator for the AGC) and Kenneth has been good; pray it continues!
Pray for Mugisha as he oversees the sale (at cost or less) of each booklet. It was decided that if a teen couldn't pay for the booklet, there would be a system of Bible verse memory and just a token amount paid in place of paying full-price. That means that yes, you can join in to help pay for publishing these booklets! Cost will be about $3 per booklet (I misunderstood an exchange rate earlier and had said at first they'd be $5 each; sorry!). If you would like to give towards youth ministries and specifically this project, please send your check to WGM and indicate where you would like the gift to go. If you would like to give online, click here.
Now please note, if you are asking, "Well, how many books could/should I pay for?", just remember that over HALF of Ugandans are 15 years old and younger. With just over 30 million Ugnadans, it means that 15+ MILLION teens and children might be able to use these booklets. So I don't think anyone will "outgive God" on this one. I encourage you to join with a Sunday school class, church or a group of friends and make a significant donation! Let the Lord lead you! And thank you for considering supporting this wonderful opportunity!
Lastly, our goal is to eventually have a full year's worth of devotionals, to make a 365 daily book. Our next step is to have another 90-day booklet. If you would like to contribute something God has put on your heart, I'd love to hear from you! Please contact me!
The writing was completed just before Thanksgiving. I even had a wonderful volunteer to edit and re-check my typing (thanks Nancy!). So many dear people emailed entries, from Africa and across the USA! Adapting them to Ugandan culture was my job (so blame me if there are errors!), as well as writing some of the entries. Right now, they're in the printing stage- including layout and re-checking before actual printing is done. They are being printed in Uganda by our very own WGM Uganda missionary, a professional printer, Kenneth Hopson!
SO MANY people have had a hand in this process; Praise the Lord for the ways He uses to unify His body and train us all! May we all bring Him glory! Thank you all who have prayed for and contributed to this process!
Do please pray for the last steps as they are completed. Communicating long-distance with Mugisha (Youth Ministries Coordinator for the AGC) and Kenneth has been good; pray it continues!
Pray for Mugisha as he oversees the sale (at cost or less) of each booklet. It was decided that if a teen couldn't pay for the booklet, there would be a system of Bible verse memory and just a token amount paid in place of paying full-price. That means that yes, you can join in to help pay for publishing these booklets! Cost will be about $3 per booklet (I misunderstood an exchange rate earlier and had said at first they'd be $5 each; sorry!). If you would like to give towards youth ministries and specifically this project, please send your check to WGM and indicate where you would like the gift to go. If you would like to give online, click here.
Now please note, if you are asking, "Well, how many books could/should I pay for?", just remember that over HALF of Ugandans are 15 years old and younger. With just over 30 million Ugnadans, it means that 15+ MILLION teens and children might be able to use these booklets. So I don't think anyone will "outgive God" on this one. I encourage you to join with a Sunday school class, church or a group of friends and make a significant donation! Let the Lord lead you! And thank you for considering supporting this wonderful opportunity!
Lastly, our goal is to eventually have a full year's worth of devotionals, to make a 365 daily book. Our next step is to have another 90-day booklet. If you would like to contribute something God has put on your heart, I'd love to hear from you! Please contact me!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Fall photos
I wish I were more creative with artsy shots, and I'm learning. But for now, these are what I've taken over this fall's lovely colors and locations. I hope you enjoy them!
Former Students
One of my favorite things is to visit with or catch up with students I've taught from years past. I've been teaching for 20 years now, so some of those "kids" are married with kids of their own. Above is a picture of Thad and his family, who I had the gift of spending time with a few weeks back. They recently moved to KY where I also had gone to speak and see supporters/friends.
I knew Thad first back in Bolivia where he grew up as a missionary kid. To see him and his wife (Ruth) and their sweet kids**, and their interaction, was a blessing! :) Thad is a farrier in KY (he shoes horses) and the family has served in Honduras as missionaries as well as lived in New England before moving to KY.
Now you might have also seen a lovely photo of Bruno and Sybil, another couple who are dear friends (he was another former student from Bolivia), but time slipped away from our brief visit and we missed the photo opportunity. They have 4 adorable children. Bruno works for Toyota while Sybil cares for the kids and keeps their home running smoothly.
Why do I like catching up with former students? I love hearing their success stories. Whether jobs, marriages, kids, educations, or other accomplishments, it is neat to see who they've become, comfortable in their own skin. So often (as we all are fully aware), teenagers are not yet personally confident or self-assured. They're still figuring out their values, ideals and dreams. So to see these former students who have figured out some life questions- it is a blessing. And certainly I'm most proud and thankful when they first choose Christ and are living a life following Him (both Thad's and Bruno's families are Christ-followers!). And I pray for those who are still trying to figure things out.
** please note, on purpose I am working to NOT identify children for their privacy rights. I also don't usually include last names of adults for the same reason, unless they are with WGM, and then I only sometimes post the last name of the adult... The web can become too invasive and it is simply a security feature I'm now working to honor in light of today's techie and voyeuristic world.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Celebrating Mom and Fall
My Mom's September birthday is something I usually don't see her for. I'm always overseas, so a call, a card, usually a gift card too- that is all I can do from Africa. But this time with Karen and family on furlough, too, we decided to have some days together. Yay!
Mom, Abby and I drove to Michigan, where Karen, Dave, and the boys are based when in the USA. We spent time at a country market, carving pumpkins, in a church service and Mom & I took an evening at Frankenmuth, MI, a German/tourism area that is absolutely charming.
Below: I love this picture of Zac and our pumpkins. He and I are the only "pumpkin carving fans" in the family, so we had our own nephew-auntie time together. Smile.
From left: me, Zac, Abby (in back), Karen, AJ (in back), Dave and Mom. Randy was in TX but plans to visit us in Indy soon. Another yay!
Mom, Abby and I drove to Michigan, where Karen, Dave, and the boys are based when in the USA. We spent time at a country market, carving pumpkins, in a church service and Mom & I took an evening at Frankenmuth, MI, a German/tourism area that is absolutely charming.
Below: I love this picture of Zac and our pumpkins. He and I are the only "pumpkin carving fans" in the family, so we had our own nephew-auntie time together. Smile.
From left: me, Zac, Abby (in back), Karen, AJ (in back), Dave and Mom. Randy was in TX but plans to visit us in Indy soon. Another yay!
HMA on the East Coast
Homeland Ministry Assignment (HMA) is what we call the time when missionaries travel in the USA, speaking in churches, reconnecting with current and (hopefully) new supporters. We do this for ministry, to encourage and report to those who've been on our team in prayer and/or financial support, and honestly we do it to be encouraged, too. I LOVE re-visiting my prayer and financial supporters, whether they are friends from college days, high school days, family, newer friends, and churches who are A-MAZ-ING in their ways they minister to me and to the ministries on the field.
So in August I headed from Indiana to Pennsylvania and spent the next several weeks on the East Coast. I spoke in several churches, as well as in a Bible study, met with folks in homes and in a ladies missionary meeting. I was in NJ, PA, and even popped down to VA to see some cousins.
Pray for me please, as I continue to travel, based from my Mom's in the Indianapolis area. I've spoken in a school group, in the corn fields of northern Indiana, in Ohio, and will continue in OH, MI, IN and KY. I will head back to PA and NJ in a few months for even more meetings there. Pray for safety and for more supporters to join my team in both finances AND prayer. Thank you!!
Above: These are some of my cousins. Well, they are children to two of my cousins- Wendy and Jamie. So are they second cousin's? Cousins once removed? I never can get that right... from left are Dante, Westley, India, Cassandra, and Lindsey.
Next 3 pictures... I spent some time seeing Jenna and her mom in PA. They are from NJ and Jenna served as a VIA (Volunteers In Action) in Uganda, and the first and best place to visit with her was by meeting them at one of their favorite places: a Renaissance Fair/Festival in the Lebanon, PA area. I'd never been to one of these, and there were a lot of picturesque things there, including jesters, a glass blower (very cool to see), a queen and her court, and jousting (I liked that part!). It was interesting to watch the people dressed as characters in that time period, including Jenna and her mom (no- I didn't have a costume).
I found it interesting to see an African elephant (the owner was giving rides at the fair) with Jenna- who I'd served with in Uganda, but in Pennsylvania. It seemed such a blend of cultures!
So in August I headed from Indiana to Pennsylvania and spent the next several weeks on the East Coast. I spoke in several churches, as well as in a Bible study, met with folks in homes and in a ladies missionary meeting. I was in NJ, PA, and even popped down to VA to see some cousins.
Pray for me please, as I continue to travel, based from my Mom's in the Indianapolis area. I've spoken in a school group, in the corn fields of northern Indiana, in Ohio, and will continue in OH, MI, IN and KY. I will head back to PA and NJ in a few months for even more meetings there. Pray for safety and for more supporters to join my team in both finances AND prayer. Thank you!!
Above: These are some of my cousins. Well, they are children to two of my cousins- Wendy and Jamie. So are they second cousin's? Cousins once removed? I never can get that right... from left are Dante, Westley, India, Cassandra, and Lindsey.
Next 3 pictures... I spent some time seeing Jenna and her mom in PA. They are from NJ and Jenna served as a VIA (Volunteers In Action) in Uganda, and the first and best place to visit with her was by meeting them at one of their favorite places: a Renaissance Fair/Festival in the Lebanon, PA area. I'd never been to one of these, and there were a lot of picturesque things there, including jesters, a glass blower (very cool to see), a queen and her court, and jousting (I liked that part!). It was interesting to watch the people dressed as characters in that time period, including Jenna and her mom (no- I didn't have a costume).
I found it interesting to see an African elephant (the owner was giving rides at the fair) with Jenna- who I'd served with in Uganda, but in Pennsylvania. It seemed such a blend of cultures!
Friday, September 3, 2010
New Prayer Card
For the first time in 20 years, I went to a real photo studio and got a proper photo taken for my prayer card. The previous photographers did the best they could with their material, but I was never very thrilled. I've just gotten my new prayer card and even a bookmark to give out.
FYI the purpose of a prayer card is to use it as a prayer tool- to have a reminder of me and the ministries in Uganda. Both the card and the bookmark are helpful for people to see and read about ministries in Uganda. I'm mailing one of each of these to everyone on my mailing list, but if you would like one and don't think I have your mailing address, please contact me through Facebook or here, at wgm.org (I still don't feel safe giving out my email here). I felt silly posting a large photo of myself here, but you can see a preview of the card/me in my profile below at right, or else through the WGM site.
Do please pray for me as I work on my Homeland Ministry Assignment. I've got a lot of miles to cover (PTL for a decent vehicle- thanks Mom!). I've got a lot more support to raise. This is due to some financial backers who have been laid off in the economy as it has been, or others getting elderly and on more strict budgets, and of course there is the inevitable rise in the cost of living. All of those add up to more support needed ($600/month) plus a cash amount of $10,000 to pay outgoing expenses plus help me in the search for a different vehicle in Uganda, since mine has basically bit the dust. If you'd like to give now to my ministry, please click here for further instructions.
Prayer team members are always coveted. Please let me know if you'd like to join my prayer team. Click here to contact me. Thanks!
If you have any questions about how ministry or joining my support team works, do please click to contact me and ask whatever you have on your heart. Thanks!
Wondering when I hope to head back to Uganda? March 2011 is the answer. I'm hoping to finish support fund raising and travel by Christmas, so I can focus on continuing education. I've got to renew my Indiana teacher's license before I return to ministries in Uganda. Having current teaching credentials is of extreme help in Uganda. Please join me in praying that ALL my support can be pledged and/or given by Christmas, so I might be able to concentrate on my studies. Thanks!
FYI the purpose of a prayer card is to use it as a prayer tool- to have a reminder of me and the ministries in Uganda. Both the card and the bookmark are helpful for people to see and read about ministries in Uganda. I'm mailing one of each of these to everyone on my mailing list, but if you would like one and don't think I have your mailing address, please contact me through Facebook or here, at wgm.org (I still don't feel safe giving out my email here). I felt silly posting a large photo of myself here, but you can see a preview of the card/me in my profile below at right, or else through the WGM site.
Do please pray for me as I work on my Homeland Ministry Assignment. I've got a lot of miles to cover (PTL for a decent vehicle- thanks Mom!). I've got a lot more support to raise. This is due to some financial backers who have been laid off in the economy as it has been, or others getting elderly and on more strict budgets, and of course there is the inevitable rise in the cost of living. All of those add up to more support needed ($600/month) plus a cash amount of $10,000 to pay outgoing expenses plus help me in the search for a different vehicle in Uganda, since mine has basically bit the dust. If you'd like to give now to my ministry, please click here for further instructions.
Prayer team members are always coveted. Please let me know if you'd like to join my prayer team. Click here to contact me. Thanks!
If you have any questions about how ministry or joining my support team works, do please click to contact me and ask whatever you have on your heart. Thanks!
Wondering when I hope to head back to Uganda? March 2011 is the answer. I'm hoping to finish support fund raising and travel by Christmas, so I can focus on continuing education. I've got to renew my Indiana teacher's license before I return to ministries in Uganda. Having current teaching credentials is of extreme help in Uganda. Please join me in praying that ALL my support can be pledged and/or given by Christmas, so I might be able to concentrate on my studies. Thanks!