I have been known to get caught up in the circumstances of life and not enjoy life. I was recently reminded about how I usually react to what is said or what is going on around me. At first, when this was brought to my attention I was so upset. I did take it to heart and began to realize that this accusation was accurate. To be honest, at first I beat myself up and wondered why or how I could be like this. I love life and would like to think that I enjoy every moment of it. However, what I don't like is that at times I have very little control over what is happening around me...thus, why I react instead of processing and coming up with how to handle whatever comes my way.
You see, my husband processes everything and tends to be very laid back and takes things in stride. Thank you Lord, that you gave me someone like that. I have been making a concerted effort this week to just enjoy life and as things arise that upset me or that I have no control over I take it in and try to process before I say or do anything. I have had a much better week. I think it is important that we focus on what we can control (which is ourselves) and let the Lord handle the rest. When we turn to Him and just admit that we can't handle or control those circumstances around us, He gives us the strength to make it through them and to learn from them. I have a lot to learn on this journey with the Lord and I am so glad that He loves me just the way I am.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Do you ever feel like maybe you just aren't doing enough? I was sitting in church last night hearing the parable of the sower. For those of you who don't know it, a farmer is throwing seed out into a field and some falls on the ground and it grows, some falls to the side and grows but doesn't take root so it eventually dies, and then some falls on rough ground, the birds eat it and it never grows. Now this is all said to relate to how people respond to the gospel.
As I read through this passage of scripture found in Matthew 13, I knew it was about how people respond, but I thought to myself, do I even put it out there for them to hear? As I heard my husband speak on this, I realized that maybe I really don't share the gospel with people enough. Being in the ministry, I am constantly around people. I love people! I hear their stories of pain and heartache; I hear their stories of joy and celebration. I rejoice with them and I cry with them. I am surrounded by Christians all the time. My mind goes back to the question though of am I doing enough?
I desire to impact my community with the love of Jesus Christ. I don't want to sit in my house, all comfortable, drinking my coffee, and reading a good book. I want to make a difference. It truly is important for us to be sharing the love of Jesus with those we come in contact with. And, I realized as I prayed and thought, that I am not like my husband who is the preacher and can lay out the salvation message and bring it. I am the one who loves on people and encourages them and shows them the love of Jesus.
We are all different and have different gifts that allow us to minister and reach out to people in different ways. I pray that I am the example of Christ's compassion to those I meet. I believe that showing others that compassion and love can make them ask questions and open doors for me to be able to share the love that has changed my life forever.
So am I doing enough? I think that everyday the Lord brings people our way that we can impact for Him if we are asking and seeking for those opportunities. Ladies, as you go about your day today I pray that you will seek out opportunities to share the love of Jesus with someone, even if it is just a smile and a God Bless your day today.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Today's blog is just going to be a funny one. Okay ladies I am quickly approaching 40 and feeling like I am going downhill quickly where my body is concerned. Now I am not overweight but I am noticing that things are getting a little jiggily and I decided that I needed to tone up. Rachel told me that she had a Pilates dvd that would really help me to tone up. She brought it down last week when she came to visit. I decided Friday that I would start the toning process. I did it for the first time and it felt great I was so proud of myself. Friday night I was feeling the burn. Got up Saturday morning and could barely move. I pushed myself though ladies. I've done it 4 times now and even bought myself one of those exercise mats. I am hoping to see the results by Thanksgiving when I meet up with my family. I am hoping they will notice...although I doubt it.
I have to admit I don't think I am going to like getting older. Things are starting to sag and wiggle that shouldn't. I know some of you are laughing and that's okay. I am surrounded by people I love and I do look forward to growing old with them. I just want to look better than they do...oh yeah, I said it!!! Okay, that sounded very vain and I sort of apologize. I told you I am struggling with getting older. I am praying that the Lord will help me to grow old gracefully and see each wrinkle and gray hair as a sign of wisdom and strength. I will keep you posted on how the Pilates are going, and how the Lord is working with me in the getting old process.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Do you find yourself comparing yourself to other women? I must admit my answer to this would be yes. There always seems to be someone else who can do something better than me. Now, if I were to dwell on this, it could really get me down. I have a wonderful husband who reminds me all the time that I am special and that I need to focus on my gifts and talents and on how I can impact others and not on how someone else can. He is 100% right.
God has blessed all of us with certain gifts and talents. Because of the gifts I have and the personality I have I can reach people that others can't. If I continually focus on someone else's gifts, then I miss out on the opportunities the Lord has laid before me to minister to and encourage people.
You are very special to the Lord and He has designed you and given you special gifts and talents to enable you to reach out and touch someone else's life. Don't waste your time looking around at someone else and thinking that they are better or that the Lord has blessed them more.
Genesis 1:27 tells us that God created man in his own image and vs. 28 tells us that He blessed them. I remember hearing the saying "God don't make no junk" growing up, (terrible English) and funny to hear but it is the truth. Take some time today to thank the Lord for all that He has given you to help you to minister to others and then look for opportunities to impact someone else's life, encourage them, love them, pray for them whatever it is that they may need.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Saturday was the big homecoming dance for my daughter's school. We spent the day getting toes painted, curling hair, picking up flowers and getting make up done. When it was all done my little girl was transformed into a princess. I couldn't believe it. How do they grow up so fast?
I have been thinking so much about parenting. Let me tell you, moving to Southeastern Virginia has been an experience where my children are concerned. Living where we were before they were very sheltered because they attended a private school and my daughter was very involved in a larger youth group and dad was always around at their school so he always knew what was going on. Now, they are in public schools and we don't always know what's going on throughout their days at school and when they come home I cringe because they aren't so sheltered anymore. I have had to do a lot of praying and letting go and trusting my oldest. Oh ladies, this has been so difficult and honestly I don't think I have done that great of a job. I love my children and I guess if I could I would put them in a bubble and let them out when they were 18 years old. I have come to realize that I have to trust them. I know we have raised them well and in the Lord. So now, they have to grow and learn and discover life and we will guide them and direct them along the way. Being a mom is the greatest job in the world, yet sometimes it can be the toughest. And, it can hurt. But I wouldn't give it up for anything!!!
Friday, October 23, 2009
Yesterday was the Women's Bible Study at my church. It started great with some breakfast, coffee and tea and we were laughing have a great time and had opened in prayer when one of our ladies got a phone call that inevitably changed everyone's life in our community. Our small community and surrounding area has a paper mill. It is the center of the community and it was announced today that it will be closing for good. Our Bible study turned into a prayer meeting. So many people's lives are affected by this and I'm not sure that it has even sunk in yet. Everywhere I went yesterday it was the topic of conversation and people felt so stunned. My heart is so heavy for this community that I have become a part of. In our church there are many, many who have retired from this plant, their parents worked there and maybe even their kids work there now. And, for so many young families, both parents work there. I have sent many prayers to heaven for my new community. Please pray with me for these people that the Lord would be with them in what is a very difficult time and that they would have a clear direction for what to do from here.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Today Rachel and I are going to get our pictures taken for when we roll out the new After the Miracle website. Last night we were picking out clothes and jewelry and laughing. I felt like I was a teenager again. It was so fun!!!!! I love having Rachel down here and being able to do all the fun things that friends do. It stinks having your best friend 4 hours away. When we do get together we try to squeeze EVERYHING into however many days we have. I know I've said this many, many times but I love having a best friend who makes me laugh, encourages me, believes in me, prays for me, gives me scripture to remind me of God's goodness and faithfulness. Someone I can be myself with, be crazy with, dream with and who makes me want to be better. Rachel truly is a gift. I hope that you have someone in your life that is a gift to you that makes you smile. The Lord has blessed me with my very best friend which is my husband and then He gave me Rachel. Every woman needs a girlfriend who can understand her because ladies admit it, our husbands don't always understand us and we need someone that does. Have a great day and call up that friend and tell her that you love her and that you are thankful for her.
Monday, October 19, 2009
I was sending an email off to a friend tonight and I was talking about obedience to God. I smiled as I thought of all the times I have been obedient and how faithful God has always been. Sometimes it is so difficult to just trust and know that God really does know what He is doing. I have to be honest with you, out of some of the darkest times of my life has come the greatest gifts.
When you come out of a dark period of your life, you can look back and see how God provided for you. Maybe it was you finally turning to God and developing an amazing relationship with Him because you really couldn’t turn to anyone else. Perhaps it was during those toughest times, He gave you someone to help you through and He blessed you with a precious new friend. When things are going great in our lives, sometimes it is hard to see all the blessings around us and how God provides for us. It is when we face trials that we turn to God and plead for something or someone to help carry us through and sustain us. Now ultimately that should be Jesus Christ. But, I believe that God helps us by placing people in our lives to encourage us and believe in us when we are so weak that we can't be strong. And I also believe he shows us in so many ways, when we are paying attention, how much He loves us. And how, if we are obedient, He will reward us.
There are no words to describe how I feel today about my Lord. I've been through a dark time and I am looking back and I see God's hand and I am so very thankful for those He has placed in my life and for all the blessings I have seen along the way.
Friday, October 16, 2009
The last few days I have spent a lot of time on the telephone talking to various people, one of them being Rachel. This blog today is for her.
Rachel and I have this saying when we just don't have any words and it is "my heart is so full." She and I have been through a lot in the last 2 years and that phrase has been used numerous times. To try to put into words what my friendship with her means is almost impossible. It has been a rough year for me and things have happened in my life that were difficult and challenging and I have walked through some dark valleys. And, I turned to Rachel during those times and to say that she was there for me is an understatement. You know we say sometimes that we need Jesus with skin on when we are facing difficult circumstances? That is exactly how I felt during those times. When I shared with Rachel all that I was going through, that is who she became to me. She held me up when I was weak. She believed in me and in the direction that the Lord was leading. She prayed for me, cried with me, and listened and listened and listened, she gave me scripture to hold on to, and would encourage me daily. She is the closest and most dearest friend that I have ever had. I know that the Lord has placed her in my life. Our hearts have been knitted together and I am grateful for her and I love her dearly. I hope that you have someone in your life, someone like Rachel. I prayed for many years to have a Rachel in my life and the Lord gave me her exactly when I needed her and I am excited to see what is in store for our friendship and ministry together. Look out!!!!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Yesterday during my quiet time with the Lord, I really prayed that the He would give me the words to minister to people in their need. I find myself so many days getting phone calls and emails from people who are hurting and just need an encouraging word. I began to sing praises to Him and really seek Him and ask for scripture to give to someone who I was to contact. The Lord gave me a precious scripture which I will share tomorrow in the devotion and then He showed me some wonderful things. I called that lady and the Lord worked beautifully through me. I was very humbled and thankful.
The ministry sometimes can be very demanding. There are always people searching for answers and they think since you are a Pastor or Pastor's wife you must have them. I sometimes find myself having such high expectations of how I should respond in certain situations. I beat myself up for not knowing what to say to everyone that calls or emails or speaks to me face to face. I've learned though, that sometimes they just need a listening ear. I have to admit and give praise to the Lord that sometimes things come out of my mouth or are typed from my fingers that are from the Lord because they sure didn't come from me. I love when that happens. My prayer is that I will always be open to what the Lord would have me to say or do for others. I pray today that if your path crosses someone who needs a listening ear or words of advice that the Lord would bless you with the right words to say or that He would tell you when it is you are to just listen.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Did you ever have a day where you felt like God was showing you something and instead of seeing it you fought it? I am going to be a little transparent today. Sometimes being a Pastor's wife you have things happen that really stretch you. God brings people into your life that see you as more than you see yourself and at first you just laugh and shrug it off. Then one day God decides that He is going to show you how He wants to use you and how He wants to be your strength and your courage when it's time to do those things which He has called you to do.
My day was so unusual yesterday and the Lord was showing me things all day and I found myself pacing and praying and feeling very overwhelmed and ill-equipped. While praying and being quiet, I was reminded of things that my friends told me in the last few weeks I was in Maryland before leaving to come to Virginia. Thinking of their words of kindness and love and encouragement, I realized that God has equipped me for the things that He has called me to. I just need to lean on Him and He will give me the rest of what it is I need to do the things that are ahead. My heart is so full of love for the Lord and for the ministry that He has for me. I pray today that I will be worthy of all that He has for me to do.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Yesterday was one of those days that I felt blah. I woke up just not feeling that great. I couldn't really tell you what it was for sure, but I spent the day just wanting to go back to bed. It was my husband's day off and we had made plans for the day and I didn't want to disappoint him so I went with him and did the things planned and honestly had a great time. What I want to share with you though is just the blessing it is to have a husband that kicks in and does what needs done when you are down and out.
Things needed done around the house and my hubby came home from our time together and kicked in and did them. The kids came home from school with lots of homework. Our son missed school Friday so he had extra work to make up along with his homework. I was attempting to make dinner (which turned out nicely in spite of myself) and he helped my son finish all his work. I smiled to myself and said a thank you to the Lord for blessing me with such a wonderful man. Ladies, if you have a husband like mine, don't take him for granted. Tell him today how thankful you are for him. Do something special for him to show your appreciation. You could make a nice dinner or plan a romantic evening. They are our partners in life, our best friends. We do things for others quite often. Why not for them?
Monday, October 12, 2009
Okay, so early on in my blogs I talked about finding the perfect shoes for my daughter. This weekend, we had to find the perfect dress for homecoming. I have to admit, this one was so much easier. I know you moms out there are amazed, but it is true. We went to two stores and found THE dress. I hate to be all sappy, but I watched by daughter come out of the dressing room in a gorgeous dress looking grown up and all I could think of, as she was twirling around and laughing, was her with her hair pulled up in a pony tail with long curls, lacey socks and maryjanes. I couldn't believe that I was looking at my beautiful daughter getting ready for her first homecoming. OH, where does the time go?
My daughter being a teenager and dealing with teenage stuff has really changed my view of things as a mom. I see more and more everyday how important it is for me to be praying for her daily for the things that she will face each day. We've raised her in a Christian home and we've told her the importance of prayer and a relationship with God, but I guess the hardest thing is realizing that I can't force her into those things. It has to be her choice. I love my daughter and I saw this weekend, once again, what a precious gift she is to me. The Lord has entrusted her to me and I intend to take good care of her.
To all of you moms out there, we have an incredible job. Don't take it lightly!! Pray for your children everyday. Satan wants them so that he can show them the work that he has for them. I say pray for them and for the work that the Lord has for them.
Friday, October 9, 2009
The new women's Bible study went well yesterday. I am so excited to see what God is going to do with the women of this church. I left there feeling so encouraged and uplifted knowing that the women were going to really get involved and study God's word. I believe with all my heart that the Lord can do something amazing with a group of women who desire to have a deeper relationship with Him.
I got a phone call from a friend yesterday with some very exciting news. During our conversation, it became so apparent to me that the Lord was answering so many of my friend's prayers. When I hung up with her, I thought about all that she had told me and I can put it no other way than to say that God is amazing. You pray for things, hoping that God will answer in a certain way, but honestly, we don’t think He will. And then He does and we stand there in awe. Why is that??
God wants us to have good things, things that make us happy and things that will honor Him. I am so happy for my friend today and I pray that the Lord will continue to answer her prayers and give her great wisdom in what lies ahead. I know she will read this today. So, to her I say...Girl, I BELIEVE in you and in all that God is going to do in and through you. He has given you so many gifts and talents and I BELIEVE that He has called you to do some pretty awesome things for Him. Don't ever doubt that and don’t let what other people may say or think discourage you.
Now, to those of you out there who feel called to do something, but are hesitant because you don't think you can or you're afraid that you might fail. Oh, let me tell you something, don't play the "what if" scenarios. Just go for it. You will miss out on some of the biggest blessings in life if you let Satan or others discourage you. So ladies, go out today and do great things for God!!!!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Today starts the Ladies Bible Study that I am going to facilitate at our church. I am so excited to do this study with the ladies. I've been working on the study some already and it has been an encouragement to me. I've been praying and really asking the Lord to give me wisdom, knowledge and understanding when it comes to conducting this study. I am really hoping that we build friendships and connections through this study. I think I mentioned before how I really look forward to the older ladies sharing what they have learned in their walks with the Lord so they can help those of us who are younger.
We all struggle in our walk with the Lord. We have days when it is a breeze to do our devotions and spend time with the Lord. Then there are days and maybe even weeks where we are so busy and consumed with life that finding time to be with the Lord is almost impossible. I am hoping that through this study we will see how to find the time to spend with the Lord regardless of what is going on in our lives that day or that week. I am thinking that when we have those crazy weeks that is when we need the strength of the Lord to get through them. This study deals with finding peace in the midst of daily life. The Bible tells us that the Lord can give us the peace that passes all understanding. That is my desire for these ladies and for myself, that we will be able to live our lives full of that peace. I am sure I will be updating you all how the study is going and definitely what I am learning from it. Have a great day ladies and take time today to
spend with the Lord and allow Him to give you that peace. God Bless!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Yesterday, my husband and I went to North Carolina with a couple from our church for lunch and a musical. We had such a great time talking and laughing. I am getting more comfortable with the people in the church and learning about them and their families and also the church's history. People at our church are so generous and really make you feel like you are part of their family. It's funny, when we first moved, it was hard for me to transition from one church to the other. I am just being honest. But yesterday, when we were with this couple talking and enjoying each other's company, I stopped for a minute and for the first time I felt like we had always been here.
The difficult thing about being in the ministry is moving from one church to another. When you are in churches for quite awhile you build connections with people and you love them and a lot of times you have counseled them and maybe dedicated their children or baptized their children or them. Leaving a church is so hard. You know that when you start out at a church you may not be there for long but God moves in your life and others and relationships are built. When we left our previous church, it was difficult. We were there for quite some time and had very precious friends. There were extenuating circumstances in our leaving, so we found it difficult to really stay in touch with some in the last few months.
We've been at our new church for a little while and I would say that our transitioning is complete and we feel like we have always been here. I love when God works and places us exactly where we NEED to be. Maybe you are going through something right now that you are questioning why. Oh friends, I am learning that God knows best. Eight months ago, I would have told you that you were crazy to think that I would ever move to the country in Southeastern Virginia. I am so happy to tell you ladies that I would rather be no other place.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Yesterday was a very normal day in my life. I got up, packed lunches, made breakfast and kissed my kids goodbye, and did some chores around the house. My husband and I went to the grocery store and then came home.
When we got home from the store, we heard a knock on the door and had a surprise visit from a lady in our church who everyone calls "Nana." With a beautiful smile on her face, she told us that she had made us some homemade vegetable soup and had picked some pears for us. She is such a blessing to everyone who meets her. She told us that for years she has gone around the community giving others goodies and dinners, especially those who are sick and shut in. I smiled as she walked away. What an example of a servant, I thought to myself. You see, Nana is in her mid 80's, owns a farm, has a huge family that she insists gets together regularly, and I think she does all the cooking. She is involved in the church and in the community. I don't think that I could keep up with her and I am in my 30's. I love that God brings people into our lives to brighten up our days! Yesterday started as an ordinary day, but when Nana stopped by, it just became a little sweeter. Hope someone comes into your life today and makes it a little sweeter!!!!!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Yesterday I witnessed the love of the body of Christ. We have a man in our church who is suffering with cancer. He hasn't been coming to church because of his treatments. Many of our congregation have been visiting them and spending time praying for him. As a church we have been lifting him up in prayer as well.
Today, he and his wife decided to come to church. During service he was not feeling well and was getting up to go out and get some fresh air, thinking it would help. On his way out of the church he passed out. The church gasped and immediately you could see the love that poured out of these people for this man. He was taken to the hospital and my husband and I went over as soon as we could. When we arrived at the hospital there were already about 6-8 people there helping support his wife while she was waiting to hear the diagnosis.
Being new to the church, we are just beginning to form relationships with people. I stepped away to get a cup of coffee at one point and I watched these people love on his wife and just be there for her during a very uncertain time. My heart was so full with love and admiration watching this. I've been in many churches through the years, some as a Pastor's wife and some as part of the congregation, and sadly enough, I haven't seen this type of love displayed very often. It reminded me of Philippians 2 where it states that we should love others more than we love ourselves. I saw that today, displayed so beautifully by the members of our church. When we left, my husband and I discussed how moved we were with the love that we saw and felt from our church friends for this man and his wife. I have seen this love played out so many times in the 3 1/2 months that we have been here. This church has really shown me what Christian love is.
We as a body of believers need to serve one another. We need to be there to encourage and uplift. We should put self aside and think of the needs of others and how we can meet them. Isn't this what Jesus did? He didn't have to die on that cross for us. He chose to...thank God he did. He is our example over and over again as we see in scripture Jesus doing for others. My prayer today is that I will put self aside and serve others and be like Jesus more and more every day. What can you do today to encourage someone or help them?
Friday, October 2, 2009
Yesterday was a great day!! I had lots to get done around the house and got very little done. But, I went to lunch with my husband and had a great time talking and laughing. I spoke with my best friend and realized once again just how blessed I am to have her in my life. I had the opportunity to send out an email to someone who I hope I was able to encourage through scripture and life experiences.
At the end of the day, I sat with my family and watched a movie and heard my kids tell me the plot of the movie the whole time we watched it since they had already seen it. I loved it just the same. The older I get, it is the little things in life that bring me such joy. Yesterday, it was spending time and having lunch with my hubby and watching a movie with my kids. Today will be another day of getting things done, but I sure hope that in the midst of it, I will slow down enough to enjoy the little things that God places there for me to enjoy.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
I am getting ready to start a women's bible study in our new church. I have been thinking and praying about this bible study for months. I am really looking forward to leading these women in this study and watching how the Lord helps us to grow in our relationship with Him and with each other.
We as women all crave to be connected. Those connections can be at church, at work, or at our children's school. We want to feel connected to someone. My prayer has been that the Lord would really use this study to create a bond among the women in our church. I desire for us to reach out to one another and pray for each other. We as women wear so many hats everyday and if we can take the time to be with others and be encouraged, understood and prayed for I believe it will make a big difference in our lives.
I love the women of my church. I see the love that they have for our church and for our community. I am so happy and proud to be part of my small church in Southeastern Virginia.
I have something to share today that has me quite depressed. I was just told this morning, by my 5 year old, that I am not "cool" anymore. Her exact words were, "Mom, you aren't going to wear that to drop me off at school, are you? You know, you might have been cool at one point, but I don't think you are anymore." Ouch. But, based on how I was dressed, she might be right!! Let me explain.
My kids usually ride the bus, but this morning they were running a little behind and they missed the bus. Now, I don't usually get ready until after they get on the bus. So, I was still in my comfy pajamas and hadn't brushed my hair yet. But, knowing that I had to drive them to school, I figured that I'd brush my hair, put on a sweater and keep on my pajama pants which have a draw string, so they are sort of like pants (inside joke to those who know it!). I threw on a pair of flip flops, grabbed my purse and keys, and headed towards the door with baby in arms. And, I was stopped in my tracks by a Hannah Montana t-shirt wearing 5 year old who looked very embarrassed that I was her mother. And, that's when she shattered my morning by telling me that my days of cool have obviously passed.
Oh how I laughed after I dropped them off! And, I realized that perhaps my days of "cool" have passed. But, as I watched my brutally honest 5-year old walk away from the car and into the school, I couldn't help but smile at the fact that I would rather be a mid-30s uncool mom than a hip 20 year old girl.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
I have had an interesting day. And, to be honest, I've had an interesting 18 months. I have learned a lot today and in the last 18 months about myself and about what it means to be a strong woman. In fact, what I'm going to share with you now is part of a book I am writing called After the Miracle. This book is about things I have learned about myself, about God, and about strength since Isabella's birth. The themes of the book actually were the springboard for this webpage ministry. And, as you'll see, a lot of the book is about what I think women can learn about being strong.
We talk about strength a lot. And, I think most of us would like people to think we are strong. I know that's my story. And, in the last 18 months, I have begun to realize that I actually have this overwhelming need to be strong, autonomous, and in control. I think as women, many of us struggle with this. Today, I want to share some of what I've learned.
For the past 18 months, all I have heard whenever the topic of Isabella comes up is how strong I was when I dealt with that pregnancy. And, while I am quick to tell people that the Lord gave me that strength and that it didn't even feel like me when I look back on the experience, people just seemed to be so impressed with how "strong I was." And, to be honest, that feels good. I like being strong and I really like being known for being strong.
But, that desire and recognition for being strong has become my detriment.
Over the last 18 months, I can remember being in conversations with friends about worries or difficulties I would be going through. And, I would hear things like, "You just need to trust God like you did when you were going through Isabella's pregnancy." Or "You must not be trusting God now, because you seem more shaken than when you went through Isabella." I started feeling guilty for showing weakness. And, I didn't want to tell people that I was weak because I thought that somehow that compromised my testimony.
I even found myself reluctant to tell my best friend about things I was struggling with. She also saw me as strong and was awed by how I persevered through our pregnancy with Isabella. And, as much as I loved her and trusted her with my deepest secrets and disappointments and pains, I did not want her to see me as weak. I would share something and then I found myself taking it back. I would say, "Don't worry about it. I'll work through it."
I remember texting her once about some thing I was dealing with at the time. And, she texted back to me with "so sorry." And, for whatever reason, I texted back to her, "Don't worry about it...I'm sorry to bother you with it...I'll get thru." It was the next text that she sent me that really hit me. With love and a stern hand, she texted, "don't do that...u r not bothering me."
I sat there and looked at that phrase and thought, "don’t do that." She knew me well enough to see what I was doing and I saw that too. I was pushing her away so that I could handle it myself. Be strong.
Her words rang through my head and I kept saying to myself, "don't do that." Don't pretend you are so strong that you don't need other people. Don't shut others out. Don't feel like you need to be autonomous, independent, and strong. Don't be afraid to show weakness. Don't do that!
I share all of this today because I still struggle with wanting to be strong and learning how to show weakness. And, if you are consumed with being strong, independent, and autonomous, please realize that the Lord has given us other people to help us through life. We were designed for relationships and the Bible is full of stories and verses of people needing other people. So, don't be afraid to show weakness or ask for help when you need it. And, I share with you today what was so lovingly shared with me..."Don’t do that!"
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
It's raining today. And recently, it seems like it has been raining a lot. I don't mind rain occasionally, but it really starts to get me down when it rains a lot. For some of you, its not only raining literally today, but it is raining figuratively in your life too.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow has said, "The best thing to do when its raining is to let it rain."
It is an interesting quote. It is certainly true about literal rain. There is not a lot you can do to stop it, so it is not a good use of our time to try to make it stop raining or to complain about it. And, we need rain. So it probably is best to just let it rain when it is literally raining.
What about figurative rain in our lives? Perhaps it is best to let figurative rain fall too when it is raining. Just let it rain. Let yourself be sad. Mourn. Cry out to the Lord and tell Him that you're upset. Let it rain and let yourself experience that rain. Don't try to deny it or hide it or minimize it. Fully experience it and talk to God about it.
If you think about literal rain, it is very necessary to our lives. And yet, we complain about it, are saddened by it, and try to ignore it. But, we shouldn't. We should just let it rain and realize that the rain is bringing life.
The same is true about figurative rain in our lives. When God sends someone to me to encourage or love or uplift, I don't draw on the sunny days of my life to help them. I draw on the rainy days. Because, it is those days where I have learned something valuable and have been given life through a new perspective or a new development in myself. And, that only comes when I let it rain and fully experience that rain.
Isaiah 55:10-11 says:
"For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it."
So, the next time it rains in your life. Let it rain. And, see what God has for you in the rain and how it can accomplish things for Him in your own life and in other's lives.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Have you ever hurt for someone else? I mean really hurt for them because they were hurting. I have. And, let me tell you, I have had situations (even recently) where I would rather be hurting myself than watch someone I love hurt.
It makes me think of research on empathy. Empathy takes many forms in psychological research. We have what is called cognitive empathy which is like perspective taking. When you can see a situation from someone else's perspective, you are talking about cognitive empathy. Then, there is emotional empathy and that is when you feel what someone else is feeling. This is the sort of empathy we are talking about when I ask if you've ever hurt because someone you love was hurting.
Empathy is a very important concept in relationships. And, I believe that feeling sad when your loved ones are sad or feeling happy when your loved ones are happy is a good sign of a good relationship. True love for someone else is feeling their pain or their joy. In fact, Romans 12:15 tells us:
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. (NIV)
It also makes me think of Jesus sharing our emotions and burdens. There are several instances in the Bible where Jesus cried with his friends. In fact, Hebrews 5:7 tells us that Jesus offered prayers for others with loud cries and tears. In Luke 19, Jesus cried when he thought of the city of Jerusalem missing out on the peace that God had for them.
I am very grateful that I have a Savior who loves me enough to cry for me. I also think we should strive to love others the way Jesus loves us. To rejoice for those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. If you have someone in your life who feels your hurts, then thank God for them today. And, thank Him for sending Jesus to feel our pain and to hurt when we hurt.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Yesterday was a great day! I didn't blog yesterday because I had traveled to southeastern Virginia to see Wendy and we were busy much of the day. Well, I guess we weren't really busy. Unless sitting in our pajamas till almost noon, eating banana bread, drinking coffee, and catching up on all sorts of stuff counts as busy.
I absolutely love coming to visit her. When I arrived at her house late Monday night, I stood outside for a second before going in. I stood in her driveway gazing at the blanket of stars that covered the sky. It was breathtaking. And, on Tuesday when we drove around, I was so taken by how beautiful the white fields of blooming cotton were. It is just beautiful here.
What a different life it is where she lives in southeastern Virginia than where I live in Baltimore. My soul is always so refreshed when I come to see her. And, the beauty of the world around is so evident where life is slow and people have time to truly see it. I love coming here. I love talking with my best friend all morning in my pajamas. I love gazing at the stars above. I love breathing deeply and slowly. I love having time to fully appreciate the splendor of the world that God has created.
I am thanking God today for all of these things...for my best friend, for the stars above, and for the beautiful world that He has created for us to enjoy.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Are you a Sea of Galilee or a Dead Sea? Strange question? Let me explain...
I heard a pastor recently who posed that question to his congregation in his sermon on generosity. He went on to explain the geography of the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River and the Dead Sea. He described how the Sea of Galilee is fed from a couple of water sources and that its major outlet is the Jordan River that flows southward to the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea gets most of its water from the Jordan River and has no outlet. When you look at pictures of the Sea of Galilee, it is just breathtaking. The Sea is beautiful and there is lush vegetation and looks very resort-like. This is in stark contrast to the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea is not beautiful and does not have the plush beauty of the Sea of Galilee.
So, what does this have to do with Generosity? This pastor described how the Sea of Galilee has input from several sources and then sends the water out to the Jordan River. There is a constant flow of input and output. In contrast, the Dead Sea has no outlet and receives from the Jordan River, without giving. Thus, it becomes very stagnant.
I think it is a beautiful symbol of how we must give to others and how it is truly better for us to give than to just receive with no outlet. I have been very taken by this analogy since I heard it and want so badly to live generously. I know that I feel very blessed in my life and have received so many things (financial blessings, emotional blessings, the blessing of my daughter Isabella's miracle) and I think that if I were to just keep it all for myself, I would not be doing what God intended. He intended for us to receive blessings and then to give them to others to be blessed. And, I strive everyday to live generously and pour out the blessings that I have received to others. Imagine how great a world we could live in, if we all felt compelled to pour out to others what we have received and not just hoard it all to ourselves. I want to be a Sea of Galilee, not a Dead Sea.
So, I charge you today to be a Sea of Galilee. Be a constant flow of giving to others what has been given to you. Live generously!
Friday, October 16, 2009
We usually write our blogs for the day either the night before or early in the morning of the day they are to be posted. And, Wendy sends me her blogs or devotions by email and I go ahead and post them on the site. So, I get a "sneak peak" before they go public!! And, this morning, when she sent me her blog, I was simply overwhelmed. I had another blog planned for today, but I think I’m going to hold on to that one and post what I am feeling right now.
First, let me say that when I read Wendy's blog, I just cried. And, they were tears of utter gratitude to God for this woman. Wendy mentioned in her blog that it is nearly impossible to put into words what our friendship means to her. And, I couldn't agree more. Saying we have a relationship like David & Jonathan gets close to explaining it, but even their relationship isn't explained with that many words. They had a deep, spiritual brotherhood with deep and sincere love for each other. They were loyal to each other and to God and had God at the very center of their relationship. And friends, that is what made David & Jonathan's relationship so special. God was at the center of it. In I Samuel, where the relationship is described, there are so many clues to what makes their relationship special. And, I have written about some of them in the Relationship series. But, I think that studying these components can really help us in our own friendships. And friends, Wendy & I have these components. And, let me tell you, when you have a friendship that has these components, it is the most amazing friendship that you will ever have. Ever have. In your entire life.
For me, I think the thing that stands out most in the story of David & Jonathan and in my own friendship story, is that "the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David" (I Samuel 18:1). David really needed a friend, and the Lord gave Jonathan to him. Do you know what the name Jonathan means? It means, "God has given" or "given by God." When David needed a friend, God gave him Jonathan. And, when Wendy needed a friend, God gave me to her and he knit our souls together. I firmly believe that. We didn't earn our friendship or work at it. God created it.
There are so many other qualities that you can see in the David & Jonathan friendship that can be keys to us as we are developing friendships with others. I plan on writing more about this special friendship in the relationship series (as well as other friendships in the Bible) so that we may all have good Biblical role models for what it means to be a good friend.
But today, let me leave you with the fact that God gave Wendy to me. We hung out weekly for 2 years and while I would have considered her a friend, it was nothing compared to our current friendship. We didn't have our special friendship until the months before she left. It was during the struggles that Wendy talks about that God knit us together. God has a plan for your life and for your relationships. And, He has people for your life. Pray that the Lord knits your heart and soul together with someone else. Someone who can be your Jonathan or your David. Because, trust me friends, when it happens, it is the most amazing gift from God that you can receive. And, your heart will be so full and you will have absolutely no words to describe the love that you have for this person.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
I'm pretty excited today because I am planning to take a quick trip to visit Wendy next week. I am working out the details of when will be the best time to go. But, for now, I am so excited to visit her.
My excitement to see her actually made me think of how Paul starts many of his letters. Whether it be to the Romans or the Philippians or the Thessalonians or his dear friend Timothy, Paul starts many of his correspondences expressing his deep love for his brothers and sisters in Christ. And, he writes often of longing to see them. Look at how Paul starts many of his correspondences:
In Philippians 1, Paul writes, "God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus" (v. 8).
In Romans 1, he writes, "I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong—that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith" (v. 11-12).
In 1 Thessalonians 2, he writes: "But, brothers, when we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you" (v. 17).
And, in 2 Timothy, Paul writes, "...I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy" (v .4).
I spent much of yesterday afternoon studying how Paul starts his letters and this theme of longing to see these individuals. And, what I find particularly interesting in these passages is that Paul uses the same word, longing, over and over. Paul longs to see these individuals.
I looked up the word "long" in the dictionary and this is the definition: "to have an earnest or strong desire or craving; yearn." I love this picture of Paul yearning to see his dear friends and brothers & sisters in Christ. His relationship with Timothy is so special that he refers to him as his son and he yearns to see him so that he can encourage him and be encouraged by him. There is something about actually seeing someone. Not just writing letters or emails or talking on the phone. But, seeing them. And, it is particularly true of our spiritual brothers and sisters. And, Paul speaks of his longing to see others many times as he is corresponding with his spiritual partners.
I hope you have relationships in your life that fill you with a longing to see those people. And, as Paul writes, relationships that fill you with joy or those in which you can be mutually encouraged by each other's faith. They are the most special relationships that you can have and they are the ones that leave you longing to see each other.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Yesterday was a very meaningful day for me. If you look at the events of the day, you would have thought that nothing notable really happened. But, if you look at the people in my life yesterday, you would understand what I am talking about.
Yesterday was a normal day of doctor's appointments and laundry and working from home. But, my day was sprinkled with conversations with different people that just blessed my life. And, at one point in my day, I was simply overcome with emotion as I realized how great it is that the Lord sends people into our lives that can help us through life. Maybe its people who send you notes out of the blue to encourage you. Maybe it's people who have specialty knowledge in an area who take time to help you. Or, maybe it's the people who are in your life daily as your partners through life. But, all of these people, are important in your life and God has placed them in your life to help you through it. And yesterday, I felt so blessed that we have other people. So, in the middle of my day yesterday, I thanked God for the people in my life. Today, take a moment and thank God for all of the people in your life.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Yesterday was a more eventful day than I was expecting going into it. You see, we ended up spending about 4 hours in the hospital last night. My 9 year old son had an infection in his index finger that wasn't responding to antibiotics, so we went to his pediatrician yesterday afternoon. They were quite concerned about it, so they sent us to the emergency room around 5pm. So, we went over and spent the evening there. He received the treatment he needed and will likely be fine once he heels, but for now, his hand is all wrapped and he can't play football.
Even though we were in the hospital and we were dealing with a serious infection, I really enjoyed our time last night. It was just the two of us at the hospital as my husband was at home with my daughters (we didn't want to take our 16 month old to the hospital during flu season). They admitted us to a small private room in the ER where we had a television and could wait for treatment. And, it was kind of fun. He and I were starving by about 7pm since neither one of us had eaten dinner, so I went out and found a vending machine. Luke was excited to have a dinner of Root Beer, white cheddar popcorn, and snickers bars! And, I have to admit, I was excited too (didn't have to cook it or clean it up)! And, we sat there eating our vending machine dinner, watching America's Funniest Home Videos, and relaxing together. It was really fun!
In the end, he received the treatment he needed after about 4 hours of waiting. But, I didn't mind the waiting because we were having fun together watching television and eating junk food. We made the best of a bad situation and really enjoyed it!
It made me think of the quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson, "How much of human life is lost in waiting." And, I couldn't help but disagree with this quote. I didn't find any human life lost in the waiting yesterday. Instead, I really felt like I found human life yesterday waiting as I just enjoyed spending time with my son. So, the next time you are waiting, look for the fun in it and it will make it so much better!!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Are you open?
Yesterday, in church, the pastor asked that question in his sermon. Are you open? Reminded me of a question that was asked at the Women of Faith conference I attended earlier this year when they asked, "Are you willing to live in the center of God's will for your life?"
Let me tell you from personal experience that it is really scary to be open and willing to live in the center of God's will for your life because it may take you someplace that you didn't expect or ask you to give up something that you don't want to give up. But, just as so many have written, when you do open yourself up to other possibilities, the Lord will bless your life in amazing ways. I have seen it in my friends' lives and I am seeing it in my own. I have some things that I want to share with you over the next couple of weeks that are happening in our lives. It's a very exciting time for us and I look forward to sharing it with you.
Right now, I want to leave you with the idea of being open. Its hard being open, but it is very rewarding. Are you open?
Friday, October 9, 2009
Today, I want to share something that I was studying last night. Recently, I have been very interested in friendship stories in the Bible. And, I have been studying various pairs like Mary & Elizabeth and Ruth & Naomi and David & Jonathan. Last night, I read most of I Samuel and the first part of II Samuel. In these chapters, you are introduced to Jonathan, the son of Saul. And, you read about how his relationship with David emerged and how he helped David escape from his father Saul's desire to kill him. And, at the end of I Samuel, you learn that Jonathan died in battle. And, David's discovery of the death of his dear friend is described in the first chapters of II Samuel where you read again of David's deep love for Jonathan and his weeping over the death of his dear friend.
What I really studied last night was Jonathan. You see, I really like Jonathan and I think that maybe he doesn't get the attention that he deserves in this dynamic pairing of David & Jonathan. I have written about him before in my Relationship column and have described how he was deeply loyal to David and loved him immensely. And, all of that is very true. But, there is another dimension of Jonathan that I like and it is described in I Samuel 14. I urge you to read it so you can fully appreciate what I am writing about today.
In chapter 14, you see how Jonathan goes off on his own to fight some Philistines. He left his father and 600 men to fight alone with his armor bearer. And, in these first 14 verses of I Samuel 14, you read of how Jonathan and his armor bearer killed 20 Philistines on their own (and in the space of about 1/2 acre).
The part that I particularly like is verse 6. It reads:
"Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, "Come, let's go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised fellows. Perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few."
After this, he goes on to say that the Lord will give them a sign for how to proceed in this battle and if they get that sign, then they will know that the Lord is in it.
What I love about verse 6 is the phrase "Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf." Jonathan has an idea, seems pretty fearless, and is open to God being in it or not being in it. But, he's going to go for it and see. He's going to forge ahead and see if God will deliver him. And so, he does and God does.
I spent a lot of time last night studying Jonathan's courage and loyalty and initiative. I really like Jonathan and I think he sometimes gets lost in the story of David. I think it is very important to point out that Jonathan killed 20 men by himself, with only his armor bearer. And, it is very clear to him and should be clear to us, that the Lord did it. Just like David killed Goliath 3 chapters later with the Lord's help, Jonathan kills 20 Philistines with God's help here. And, both men were successful because they were willing to "go for it" and let God do amazing things in their lives.
So, I write about it today because I wanted to highlight Jonathan and to be reminded that when the Lord is in our plans, it turns out amazing. But, the first step is being willing to forge ahead and find out.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
I am really excited to share a verse with you today. It was in my devotion yesterday and it really spoke to me, so I though I would share it with you today. It is 2 Corinthians 3: 1-6:
1Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? 2You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. 3You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
4Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. 5Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. 6He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant-not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
I really love these verses. I love how Paul describes our lives as letters of recommendation. I write a lot of letters of recommendations for my students who are applying to medical school or graduate school or jobs. And, I like the analogy of our lives being letters of recommendation that describe how Christ has worked in our lives and how competent He is through us. Our competence truly does come from God. And, I think we need to remember that anytime we are feeling like we are not competent to do something. We are and we need to channel it and work for Him!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Yesterday was another good day. Nothing really notable happened, but I had a really productive day at home. I did laundry, cleaned the floors, and just some general picking up around the house. I also had time to sit and read and just feel like I had enough hours in the day. I don't know about you, but I don't have a lot of days where I feel like I actually have enough hours. So, I really enjoyed it yesterday.
One thing that I am really becoming aware of recently is how I spend my time. And, yesterday, I left my laptop turned off, didn't look at my Blackberry much, and tried to just enjoy the day and not focus on work. You see, I live in a very hectic area of the country. And, I work full-time for Johns Hopkins University as a researcher on a major NIH funded clinical trial and as a professor. However, because I want to be home with my kids, I try to work from home as much as I can, which usually turns out to be 2-3 days per week. While that is nice for the children, it tends to make me very stressed. I find myself on conference calls while Isabella naps or on my Blackberry checking email while at the grocery store. It makes for a very stressful lifestyle.
And, for a long time, I was willing to do that because I wanted to have a career, but I also wanted to be at home for my children. And, for 9 years, I have managed to do it. But, I'm starting to wonder if the rat race is really worth it and if it is truly good for me (and them) in the long run. I really enjoyed my day today, just focusing on home stuff and not being distracted by the beltway, Blackberry, and BMWs around me. Stay tuned as I continue to explore this issue that I am sure so many working mothers face.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Yesterday was a great day. I had a productive day at work, enjoyed watching my son play football, talked with my best friend, and had a good, restful evening at home with my husband where we spent time talking, dreaming, and just enjoying being together.
One thing we talked about was something that had come up in church on Sunday. Our pastor was talking about creation and how God created the world out of nothing. And, he introduced us to the phrase ex nihilo, which is Latin for "out of nothing." God created the world out of nothing. He just said it and it was. Think about that. It is really powerful.
Another reason that it was so powerful to me is because I also have had the opportunity to see God create something ex nihilo, out of nothing. When the pastor was describing the concept of God creating something out of nothing, I instantly thought of Isabella. Let me tell you why I say that...
When I was pregnant, we got devastating news at our 20-week ultrasound. In addition to a host of problems that the doctors saw in Isabella, the physicians told us that Isabella did not have kidneys. The reason they thought this was first because they could not visualize either kidney in ultrasound. But, beyond that, I also had no amniotic fluid (which is produced by the baby's kidneys and bladder). Additionally, when they couldn't see the kidneys through ultrasound, they used the Doppler to check for blood flow to the region. Their reasoning was that if they saw blood flow to the kidney region, then they would presume that something was getting blood supply. However, when they used the Doppler, they saw no blood flow to the region where the kidneys should have been. The final piece of evidence that suggested to them that she had no kidneys was that they also noticed that the adrenal glands were in the "laying down position." The adrenal glands are normally positioned on top of each kidney, so when they are "laying down" that means that they are lower than normal and there is nothing underneath them supporting them. So, there was ample evidence that Isabella did not have kidneys.
And, that is why I say that God created her kidneys ex nihilo. Out of absolutely nothing, God created her kidneys. I believe with all my heart, mind, and soul, that Isabella did not have kidneys at our 20 week ultrasounds. There were four pieces of evidence that support this: no amniotic fluid, inability to visualize the kidneys, no blood flow to the region, and the adrenal glands were "laying down." So, she did not have kidneys at 20 weeks gestation. But, she did have them around 28 weeks. God created them ex nihilo. Powerful, isn't it?
I think it is absolutely amazing that God can create things out of nothing. I have seen it first hand in Isabella. And, we all see it everyday in the beautiful world that we live in. Because, in the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth ex nihilo.
Monday, October 5, 2009
I have a new favorite song. It is Today is the Day by Lincoln Brewster. It is absolutely awesome. One of those heart pumping, get on your feet, and sing loud types of songs! Here is the video for it:
How can you listen to this song and NOT feel better? The Lord does have good things planned for us. They key is, we have to live in the center of His will for us. Not in the center of our will! And, today is the day that the Lord has made, and we should live for His plans for us. And, if we do, we will have nothing to worry about, nothing to be fearful of, and nothing to be anxious about.
Listen to this song today - I guarantee you'll be singing it all day long!!
Friday, October 2, 2009
Yesterday was a fantastic day. It was my son's 9th birthday! And, I really cannot believe that he is 9 years old. Time truly does fly by. It seems like just yesterday that my husband and I were watching an LSU - Tennessee football game that went into triple overtime. Being avid Tennessee fans, my husband and I were watching the game with our friends. We were up late, on the edge of our seats through multiple overtimes, and cheering very loudly. And, I was 38 weeks pregnant.
Due to the tension of the game (and the fact that Tennessee lost), it is no surprise that I went into labor during the night following that game. And, on Sunday afternoon, Luke Alexander was born. There is a lot about that day that I'll always remember. The football game. Our excitement as first time parents. Our friends who came straight to the hospital to help when we called them. It was a glorious day.
As most of you can relate to, we were so clueless as first time parents. I remember all the security in the hospital and all the nurses watching over us for 2 days. Then, they just let us go home. And, I remember leaving the hospital thinking that I couldn't believe they were letting us leave with him. We were so young and we had no idea what we were doing!
When we arrived home, I will never forget putting Luke, still in his carrier, on the kitchen table. He was sleeping sweetly (he was always a good sleeper) and all bundled in his new blankets and hat. And, my husband and I looked at each other and looked at Luke and said, "Now what?"
Well, we obviously figured out what to do and now, he is an active boy who loves football, playing the Wii, and making his baby sister laugh. He's kind and smart and a great big brother to his two sisters. I love Luke very much and am so grateful that he came into our life after a tense football game, 9 years ago.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
My best friend is a Pastor's wife. And, I want to take today's blog to talk about her. Many of you know your Pastor's wife as a great singer, a Bible Study leader, a compassionate listener, an energetic supporter, a loving mother, or a wonderful wife. And, while all of those things are true of my best friend, I also know her as a regular woman who loves shopping for bargains, singing 80's music, and taking road trips to the beach in the convertible. She is fun, kind, and loves the Lord with all of her heart, mind, and soul.
I have been immensely blessed by her friendship and by seeing what an amazing responsibility she has as the wife of a Pastor. And, I don't think most of us realize how significant a position she occupies in the ministry of her husband or how many sacrifices are sometimes made by this loving woman. As a Pastor's wife, she lovingly supports her husband, adjusts her life to meet the needs of the church, and sometimes abandons her own career aspirations to follow a higher call. Plans sometimes get changed, telephone calls for help sometimes come late, and dreams sometimes get shattered. But, there is no other place she would rather be than by her husband's side serving the Lord together.
I have learned a lot as I have taken this journey with my best friend. And, the thing I have learned the most is that being a Pastor's wife is a high calling, just as being a Pastor is. When the Lord called her husband to ministry, He also chose her to be his partner. It is not an easy position. But, this high calling is one that my best friend has taken on with grace, poise, and so much love for Christ and the people around her.
I admire her. I applaud her. And, I love her very dearly.
