As the rain falls outside my Holiday Inn Express window, I sit here in my warm room with all the comforts I need, curled up under a warm fuzzy green blanket in a comfy chair. To my left is a refrigerator with my cold coffee drink for later. My bottle of water. I have the option of warm clean water to bathe or shower in. I have already eaten supper. To my right a big soft bed with not just one, but 4 pillows on which to rest my head. I'm under an intact roof.
And I'm thinking about Haiti.
About the children of Compassion International. But not just those children. About the children who desperately wish they were sponsored children of Compassion International. Because they see, they know, what a life saving difference a mere $38 a month makes in their friends lives who have sponsors. What blessed changes come when you're hungry, scared, thirsty, lonely, in need of medical care, emotional care, and to know hope... to get a sponsor means you are fed, clothed, schooled, see a doctor, get glasses, receive counseling and therapy if need be, and needed repairs to a leaky roof your family lives under. It means you are safe, you have hope, and above all this you meet Jesus - the Author of Hope.
I sit here thinking about the 200 children we will try to find sponsors for in the next 2 days at WCQR's onair drive to "Remember Haiti with Compassion". See, I have already looked at their precious faces through this link http://www.wcqr.org/
Those children who may not only be listening to the rain fall tonight, but who may be out in it, still hungry, still lonely, still yearning for what they dont understand but know they need... Hope
But when you are a child of Compassion like Guetchine you have hope, its there waiting when tragedy strikes
Remember Haiti - don't forget the least of these...
Marisa
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Sometimes a Nap is Just Right
I was thinking about Goldie Locks as we headed home from church today. Not the bears, but Goldie Locks.You know, how she looked for just the right bed? The bed that wasn't too hard, that wasn't too soft? See, I was thinking about a nap.
I was thinking that this weekend had been a busy one. I had dinner, laughs, and great conversation on Friday evening with my husband Todd, along with our pastor and his wife (so good in fact we didn't get home until 1am Saturday morning). Then it was early to rise for me on Saturday morning, off to spend a much needed sweet day of needed down time with the women's ministry leadership team (including a brief time of event planning), and a good meal together. Sunday of course was another early morning as Hubs and I headed to worship and hear the second message in a fantastic series our pastor is walking us through, on who we are as a church, what we believe, and where we are going as a united body of believers. This was followed by a long leisurely lunch with 20 friends.
The problem was, how do I justify a nap? Yes, it was a few really long days... but for such great and fun things! And here I was, actually considering where to have it as I looked out the passenger side window at the sun light glistening on the little patches of snow still dotting the sides of the road. In the bed, on the couch, in Todd's recliner - where would be just right for me today? But there were dishes to wash, clothes to wash, the second bedroom needed to still be completely cleaned out, and a lot more tasks that I needed to finish.
In the first chapter of Genesis, as His creation is revealed, it ends with "on the sixth day He rested", right? But that was after all once He created the earth and all it contained - not after He had hung out a couple of late nights with friends.Then I thought back over those 31 verses in Genesis again. Wait,... as God created the world - the WHOLE world mind you - it actually says that 'He saw what He had made and it was very good'... and it says that way more than once. It doesn't say He broke a sweat, then needed rest. He's God after all. But He did rest.Then it struck me. He was joyfully spending His time getting everything ready for fellowship with us! What He rested from were things that gave Him great pleasure, and I think to also say wow, this is good, this is what I desire.
This weekend was full of great fellowship, great pleasure, and time with friends who love Him - and it was good.
And so I napped. And it was just right :)
Marisa
I was thinking that this weekend had been a busy one. I had dinner, laughs, and great conversation on Friday evening with my husband Todd, along with our pastor and his wife (so good in fact we didn't get home until 1am Saturday morning). Then it was early to rise for me on Saturday morning, off to spend a much needed sweet day of needed down time with the women's ministry leadership team (including a brief time of event planning), and a good meal together. Sunday of course was another early morning as Hubs and I headed to worship and hear the second message in a fantastic series our pastor is walking us through, on who we are as a church, what we believe, and where we are going as a united body of believers. This was followed by a long leisurely lunch with 20 friends.
The problem was, how do I justify a nap? Yes, it was a few really long days... but for such great and fun things! And here I was, actually considering where to have it as I looked out the passenger side window at the sun light glistening on the little patches of snow still dotting the sides of the road. In the bed, on the couch, in Todd's recliner - where would be just right for me today? But there were dishes to wash, clothes to wash, the second bedroom needed to still be completely cleaned out, and a lot more tasks that I needed to finish.
In the first chapter of Genesis, as His creation is revealed, it ends with "on the sixth day He rested", right? But that was after all once He created the earth and all it contained - not after He had hung out a couple of late nights with friends.Then I thought back over those 31 verses in Genesis again. Wait,... as God created the world - the WHOLE world mind you - it actually says that 'He saw what He had made and it was very good'... and it says that way more than once. It doesn't say He broke a sweat, then needed rest. He's God after all. But He did rest.Then it struck me. He was joyfully spending His time getting everything ready for fellowship with us! What He rested from were things that gave Him great pleasure, and I think to also say wow, this is good, this is what I desire.
This weekend was full of great fellowship, great pleasure, and time with friends who love Him - and it was good.
And so I napped. And it was just right :)
Marisa
Monday, January 10, 2011
Remembering Haiti
As I prepare next week to travel to the Tri-Cities at WCQR Christian Radio to help my good buddy Dave Kirby host a two day 'Remembering Haiti' Child Sponsorship Drive with Compassion International, I am incapable of stopping the images from flooding back into my mind we all saw a year ago. Every local or national newscast, every online news source, every newspaper and magazine all reflected the horrors of the devastation that 7.0 magnitude earthquake left behind in Haiti in January of 2010.
Can it really be only a 12 months ago in Port-au-Prince that more than 220,000 people died, some 300,000 people were injured, and more than 1 million were left homeless?
Can it really be only a 12 months ago in Port-au-Prince that more than 220,000 people died, some 300,000 people were injured, and more than 1 million were left homeless?
And oh how our hearts broke at the images of the youngest of those left behind - so very many children. Some with only remnants of the families they once knew, some orphaned and completely alone.They are still there you know, still living in make shift tents of ripped tarps and rocks. Still needing clean water, food, medical care, emotional help. And still needing the most basics things in life we all take for granted.
These children who had a hard enough time daring to dream bigger than what they saw within blocks of their homes before the disaster, now can't dream past tonight and the dire circumstances and extreme poverty in which they know they will still awaken to tomorrow morning.
But ever at the ready, with your help, is Compassion International and they ARE bringing hope! I have three Compassion children myself (one each in Guatemala, Columbia, and Ghana). I have seen first hand that in needy communities, operating through the local church, Compassion International projects all over the world are there ready to provide food, education, safety, health care, spiritual guidance, love, and hope - all wrapped up in Jesus!
Would you say a prayer for me, the staff of WCQR and those who will be tuning in? I'm so excited to be able to go help, and share the Children of Haiti and of Compassion with ther community. Pray for many to catch the vision, God's vision, of simply welcoming a child in His name. That with a monthly financial gift and exchange of letters they don't just provide the daily things that every child in this world deserves, but that they become the source God will use to begin to sew His Hope and help that child dare to dream bigger than they ever did before!
Yes the need is still so incredibly great in Haiti, but our God is greater, and through Compassion International hope is rising - and for those who will dare to help, they will be His hands and feet!
Every good thing is not for every one to do, but if you think you may be called to help a child to dream again, simply click the Compassion link you will find on my blog at http://love89djmarisa.blogspot.com/ (if you are already reading this and are already on my blog just look to your right toward the top of the page) Then pray for God to reveal the child He has already picked out just for you and release that child from poverty in Jesus Name!
Friday, January 7, 2011
About Town
I'm sitting here with Hubs tonight and was thinking that you know, its January, things aren't quite as happening as they were around the holidays. Not that we all don't need the rest, to veg every now and then, but if you are looking for something to do and don't mind bundling up for a couple of them, there ARE some neat things around to partake in...
Its colder, but a fact is many animals at the Zoo love this time of year and are actually more active - now thru Feb 28th 2011 the Knoxville Zoo is holding "Penguin Discount Days"... That means admission to Knoxville Zoo is half-off! Bundle up and also don't forget the Wee Play Zoo - an indoor activity are perfect for a break and time to warm up. If it gets below 40 degrees some animals are taken inside but the big guys like the elephants, gorillas, bears and more are out, and also the reptiles and indoor areas are open! http://www.knoxville-zoo.org/
Its also time for the Zoo's annual phone book recycling program too now thru Jan 31st so you can bring an outdated phone book to the zoo and receive special admission. For each outdated phone book, guests will receive one-free admission ticket with the purchase of another. Since its also the Penguin Discount Days that means if you bring a phone book to recycle you can buy one admission is at half-price and get one free.
"Free Saturday Stories and Songs" programs are being held at participating Knoxville Library branches - get full schedules and locations at http://knoxrooms.sirsi.net/rooms/portal/page/Sirsi_HOME
There are other libraries with special events too like:
Blount County http://www.blountlibrary.org/GeneralCalendar.pdf
Cheer on 100+ people participating Jan 31st & Feb 1st in the "Special Olympics Winter Games in TN" at Ober Gatlinburg - details are at http://www.obergatlinburg.com/event/11/
Join others to support these athletes with intellectual disabilities as they compete in Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding!
The Titanic's first ever "Pigeon Forge Professional Ice Carving Competition"
Watch the world’s-most celebrated ice sculptors chisel 250-pound blocks of ice into fantastic designs that are beyond belief. This free one-day family event will take place in Titanic’s outdoor entertainment center Saturday, Jan. 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Professionals and amateurs will compete for prize monies. It'll probably be pretty popular so I'd go early for the best views! http://www.titanicpigeonforge.com/
Don't forget too that a leisurely drive through Cades Cove can do wonders, even this time of year... great views can cleanse the mind and spirit and remind you of Gods handiwork in a whole new way than just the typical warmer seasonal visits. So consider packing lunches and heading out on that famed loop or one of these trailways below where the vistas should be nice and clear this time of year on those unclouded days!
http://www.smokies.ws/lookrock/
http://www.blueridgeparkway.org/
http://www.cherohala.org/
There are more events than this of course and I'll try to post some from time to time for you. I truly think that East TN is the best place to be any time of year!
Marisa
Its colder, but a fact is many animals at the Zoo love this time of year and are actually more active - now thru Feb 28th 2011 the Knoxville Zoo is holding "Penguin Discount Days"... That means admission to Knoxville Zoo is half-off! Bundle up and also don't forget the Wee Play Zoo - an indoor activity are perfect for a break and time to warm up. If it gets below 40 degrees some animals are taken inside but the big guys like the elephants, gorillas, bears and more are out, and also the reptiles and indoor areas are open! http://www.knoxville-zoo.org/
Its also time for the Zoo's annual phone book recycling program too now thru Jan 31st so you can bring an outdated phone book to the zoo and receive special admission. For each outdated phone book, guests will receive one-free admission ticket with the purchase of another. Since its also the Penguin Discount Days that means if you bring a phone book to recycle you can buy one admission is at half-price and get one free.
"Free Saturday Stories and Songs" programs are being held at participating Knoxville Library branches - get full schedules and locations at http://knoxrooms.sirsi.net/rooms/portal/page/Sirsi_HOME
There are other libraries with special events too like:
Blount County http://www.blountlibrary.org/GeneralCalendar.pdf
Cheer on 100+ people participating Jan 31st & Feb 1st in the "Special Olympics Winter Games in TN" at Ober Gatlinburg - details are at http://www.obergatlinburg.com/event/11/
Join others to support these athletes with intellectual disabilities as they compete in Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding!
The Titanic's first ever "Pigeon Forge Professional Ice Carving Competition"
Watch the world’s-most celebrated ice sculptors chisel 250-pound blocks of ice into fantastic designs that are beyond belief. This free one-day family event will take place in Titanic’s outdoor entertainment center Saturday, Jan. 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Professionals and amateurs will compete for prize monies. It'll probably be pretty popular so I'd go early for the best views! http://www.titanicpigeonforge.com/
Don't forget too that a leisurely drive through Cades Cove can do wonders, even this time of year... great views can cleanse the mind and spirit and remind you of Gods handiwork in a whole new way than just the typical warmer seasonal visits. So consider packing lunches and heading out on that famed loop or one of these trailways below where the vistas should be nice and clear this time of year on those unclouded days!
http://www.smokies.ws/lookrock/
http://www.blueridgeparkway.org/
http://www.cherohala.org/
There are more events than this of course and I'll try to post some from time to time for you. I truly think that East TN is the best place to be any time of year!
Marisa
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Chick-Chat: "Distractions - The Prequel"
Chick-Chat: "Distractions, the Prequel"
I posted earlier about how sometimes God provides good distractions. Those meant to take my mind off me and my own struggles, to focus on how He is working around me and how that can be just the best blessing and picture of Him and who He is. The more I've thought about this, the more I kept going back in my mind to a much simpler time in my life...
(ok, this is where you should now hear that typical dream sequence music from every t.v. show and movie you've ever seen)
See that young girl over there? The one who's bending over that dandelion so intently examining each little tiny petal in her flip flops and shorts? She sees how each delicate petal tucks so tightly under the next ring of them, and marvels at how they look like hundreds of flowers in one!
See the other little girl, the one with the magnifying glass? Looking at the caterpillar she caught earlier? She's watching it undulate and wrinkle in on its self like many tiny waves meeting and moving apart as it crawls around slowly on the leaf she's holding in the other hand.
What about the girl who's lying in her back with her best friend? They're both wearing pink shirts (they like to wear the same colors on the same day because they've been best friends since they were in kindergarten, and its Pink Thursday after all). They lay there, head to head, looking at the clouds drifting by in ever changing shapes, deciding what each sees in them - a flower, a bunny, a mans head, a football, a bird...
We all handle it differently and we've dealt with it for longer than we think.
Picture yourself as one of the girls above. Those girls also have something they were waiting to do. One may have been waiting on mom to call her home for dinner. One may be waiting until the time her friend who lives down the street said to come over and play, once she was done helping her sister do chores. Or maybe waiting on her dad to finish whatever he was doing in the garage to come take her for a bike ride. Maybe the two picking shapes in the clouds were simply just waiting to grow up so their life could begin :)
We wait on that much needed job, on the kids to behave, on friends to stop making bad decisions and just listen to us already, for that future spouse to show up, or pop the question, maybe just for a chance to live out the dream you have been chasing for years, for that new way God will finally begin to use you again for His glory...
I used to be those girls, but I got older. And I had trouble waiting without getting anxious, fretting, getting impatient and trying to rush God's hand.
Psalm 52:8-9
8 But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever.
9 For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.
So we should actually flourish, grow, and praise Him in the waiting – find hope in the waiting!
I remember being those girls, lazily distracted by the good things God provided because I was much more eager to see them then, to look for them. I still had enough child like wonder in me to seek them out even.
I have decided that’s how I should wait now. Like a child!
Because I think when I look at how much care He takes placing things around me for my pleasure, for my glimpses of Him, and yes my distractions from worry, I see how much He loves me.
Gods incredible creations are meant to perplex, amaze and baffle me!
So next time I'm getting impatient maybe I'll stop at a nursery or greenhouse and start choosing some flowers I may want to try my hand at planting in window boxes this Spring.
If you know me at all you know I won't be looking for creepy crawly things to look at to say wow look at what my God did - BUT I just may take a few hours at the zoo watching the lumbering mammoth elephants and the quick curious twitchy prairie dogs and see what His hand truly has done, and enjoy a nice walk at the same time.
And I just may find a spot in my own front yard the next time I'm feeling anxious, lay on a warm blanket, relax, and see what boats, planes, fish, and ducks I can find in the clouds.
But I'm thinking to really set the stage for connecting with that young girl I should first find a park with swings and see how high I can fly!
Marisa Lykins
I posted earlier about how sometimes God provides good distractions. Those meant to take my mind off me and my own struggles, to focus on how He is working around me and how that can be just the best blessing and picture of Him and who He is. The more I've thought about this, the more I kept going back in my mind to a much simpler time in my life...
(ok, this is where you should now hear that typical dream sequence music from every t.v. show and movie you've ever seen)
See that young girl over there? The one who's bending over that dandelion so intently examining each little tiny petal in her flip flops and shorts? She sees how each delicate petal tucks so tightly under the next ring of them, and marvels at how they look like hundreds of flowers in one!
See the other little girl, the one with the magnifying glass? Looking at the caterpillar she caught earlier? She's watching it undulate and wrinkle in on its self like many tiny waves meeting and moving apart as it crawls around slowly on the leaf she's holding in the other hand.
What about the girl who's lying in her back with her best friend? They're both wearing pink shirts (they like to wear the same colors on the same day because they've been best friends since they were in kindergarten, and its Pink Thursday after all). They lay there, head to head, looking at the clouds drifting by in ever changing shapes, deciding what each sees in them - a flower, a bunny, a mans head, a football, a bird...
We all handle it differently and we've dealt with it for longer than we think.
Picture yourself as one of the girls above. Those girls also have something they were waiting to do. One may have been waiting on mom to call her home for dinner. One may be waiting until the time her friend who lives down the street said to come over and play, once she was done helping her sister do chores. Or maybe waiting on her dad to finish whatever he was doing in the garage to come take her for a bike ride. Maybe the two picking shapes in the clouds were simply just waiting to grow up so their life could begin :)
We wait on that much needed job, on the kids to behave, on friends to stop making bad decisions and just listen to us already, for that future spouse to show up, or pop the question, maybe just for a chance to live out the dream you have been chasing for years, for that new way God will finally begin to use you again for His glory...
I used to be those girls, but I got older. And I had trouble waiting without getting anxious, fretting, getting impatient and trying to rush God's hand.
Psalm 52:8-9
8 But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever.
9 For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.
So we should actually flourish, grow, and praise Him in the waiting – find hope in the waiting!
I remember being those girls, lazily distracted by the good things God provided because I was much more eager to see them then, to look for them. I still had enough child like wonder in me to seek them out even.
I have decided that’s how I should wait now. Like a child!
Because I think when I look at how much care He takes placing things around me for my pleasure, for my glimpses of Him, and yes my distractions from worry, I see how much He loves me.
Gods incredible creations are meant to perplex, amaze and baffle me!
So next time I'm getting impatient maybe I'll stop at a nursery or greenhouse and start choosing some flowers I may want to try my hand at planting in window boxes this Spring.
If you know me at all you know I won't be looking for creepy crawly things to look at to say wow look at what my God did - BUT I just may take a few hours at the zoo watching the lumbering mammoth elephants and the quick curious twitchy prairie dogs and see what His hand truly has done, and enjoy a nice walk at the same time.
And I just may find a spot in my own front yard the next time I'm feeling anxious, lay on a warm blanket, relax, and see what boats, planes, fish, and ducks I can find in the clouds.
But I'm thinking to really set the stage for connecting with that young girl I should first find a park with swings and see how high I can fly!
Marisa Lykins
Sunday, January 2, 2011
About to Go Deep
Friends - this isnt the usual blog/note post... it's a request for back up! :)
Through the changes over this last week at Love89 I have been so encouraged by many of you, so loved on, and so held by my God. But it has been so busy, so draining, so chaotic and overwhelming at times!
I have been led by God to spend the next two days (once my husband leaves for work each day) between the hours of 8am and 3pm being quiet with Him, praying and reading His Word, talking with Him, but more importantly listening for His voice.
I am asking you to back me up over the next two days.
I am seeking peace, a refreshing and renewing, and if its His perfect time also some specific direction, or to even know if I am just to continue being still in Him.
Some things are being spoken into my life already, and I just want so badly not to miss His voice, His best, His timing, and want to make sure its not just my desire.
So, with that being said I am simply asking this - if He brings me to your mind Jan 3rd and 4th, will you take at least a few moments and pray for me regarding these things?
What a blessing to be able to not just pray and talk with my creator, but to ask you to join me in seeking His plan for my life!
Thank you, and be joyful in ALL Things
Marisa
Prov 2:1-4
1 My child, listen to what I say,
and treasure my commands.
2 Tune your ears to wisdom,
and concentrate on understanding.
3 Cry out for insight,
and ask for understanding.
4 Search for them as you would for silver;
seek them like hidden treasures.
Through the changes over this last week at Love89 I have been so encouraged by many of you, so loved on, and so held by my God. But it has been so busy, so draining, so chaotic and overwhelming at times!
I have been led by God to spend the next two days (once my husband leaves for work each day) between the hours of 8am and 3pm being quiet with Him, praying and reading His Word, talking with Him, but more importantly listening for His voice.
I am asking you to back me up over the next two days.
I am seeking peace, a refreshing and renewing, and if its His perfect time also some specific direction, or to even know if I am just to continue being still in Him.
Some things are being spoken into my life already, and I just want so badly not to miss His voice, His best, His timing, and want to make sure its not just my desire.
So, with that being said I am simply asking this - if He brings me to your mind Jan 3rd and 4th, will you take at least a few moments and pray for me regarding these things?
What a blessing to be able to not just pray and talk with my creator, but to ask you to join me in seeking His plan for my life!
Thank you, and be joyful in ALL Things
Marisa
Prov 2:1-4
1 My child, listen to what I say,
and treasure my commands.
2 Tune your ears to wisdom,
and concentrate on understanding.
3 Cry out for insight,
and ask for understanding.
4 Search for them as you would for silver;
seek them like hidden treasures.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Distractions can be good things
Here are three definitions of "distraction" according to the Farlex online dictionary:
1. a mental state characterized by a lack of clear and orderly thought and behavior
2. mental turmoil or madness
3. an obstacle to attention
I often think of distraction as a bad thing, and rightly so - I dont want to be distracted from the goal, the path, the vision, the plan, the truth.
And let's not even talk about number two :)
But sometimes I have learned there are God planted and designed distractions that are meant for the other definition I found...
4. an entertainment that provokes pleased interest and distracts you from worries and vexations
I am so glad that God will always make a way to keep me from becoming focused on my own issue, struggle, or concern (of course its my choice to see it and take it and sometimes I can be stubborn... you?)
As I move through a time of distinct and sudden change in my life, where its easy to even focus on concern for others to the point of feeling overwhelmed, my God is gracious to provide me a chance to be distracted by His goodness.
I got to go with my husband Todd tonight as Lonnie Hunley, President of IBEW Local 760 for 25 years, was honored for that service - for his dedication and loyalty, for working to better life for the members and their families, for helping to give back to more than 10 local charities just this year alone.
It was a precious time for him and for the Local 760 members who attended the special resolution passed at the City Council meeting tonight.
And it was a sweet way to have God give me a break too and say - "let go for a few minutes child, look, see what good things I am doing overhere!"
See I know the right verses about not worrying, laying things at His feet, etc etc... but sometimes I'm stubborn, and I need Him to lovingly distract me... you?
1. a mental state characterized by a lack of clear and orderly thought and behavior
2. mental turmoil or madness
3. an obstacle to attention
I often think of distraction as a bad thing, and rightly so - I dont want to be distracted from the goal, the path, the vision, the plan, the truth.
And let's not even talk about number two :)
But sometimes I have learned there are God planted and designed distractions that are meant for the other definition I found...
4. an entertainment that provokes pleased interest and distracts you from worries and vexations
I am so glad that God will always make a way to keep me from becoming focused on my own issue, struggle, or concern (of course its my choice to see it and take it and sometimes I can be stubborn... you?)
As I move through a time of distinct and sudden change in my life, where its easy to even focus on concern for others to the point of feeling overwhelmed, my God is gracious to provide me a chance to be distracted by His goodness.
I got to go with my husband Todd tonight as Lonnie Hunley, President of IBEW Local 760 for 25 years, was honored for that service - for his dedication and loyalty, for working to better life for the members and their families, for helping to give back to more than 10 local charities just this year alone.
It was a precious time for him and for the Local 760 members who attended the special resolution passed at the City Council meeting tonight.
And it was a sweet way to have God give me a break too and say - "let go for a few minutes child, look, see what good things I am doing overhere!"
See I know the right verses about not worrying, laying things at His feet, etc etc... but sometimes I'm stubborn, and I need Him to lovingly distract me... you?
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Winter Snow
Sitting here on Christmas morning I am a mixed bag of emotions. I am quiet in the moment, realizing how softly (to the world at least), how quietly announced the Christ child's arrival was. Only to a few who watched with eyes and ears and hearts and minds tuned to the cosmos and scriptures understood. The soft coos from the King of Kings lips I am sure soothed the animals back to sleep after His cries as he entered this world shattered the stillness of that night and set them on edge.
But I also feel a churning in my heart with the knowledge of how Heaven and the places in between it and this earth shook with the war of angels and demons to keep Him and His mother safe - and to usher in the deliverance of our Savior! Think of just how closely the evil one must have been watching the events unfold and how frantic he was to stop it!
As I think of the One called Faithful and True, how He will arrive for me one day in His full Glory and Majesty, that He gave up that Glory to become an infant that was inexpressibly Son of God and Son of man in need of food and warmth, as I am... it is beyond my understanding.
But that is, now that I think of it, how I spend most of the days on my journey here - on an exciting swinging pendulum with my God.
I am a back and forth in my thoughts on Him. There are moments of soft murmurs of praise and awe, whispers of love, silent petitions of peace for myself or someone else. Then seemingly within minutes He can reveal Himself in miracles, undeniable grandness, or something rocks me to the core and in the next breathe come my desperate pleas and cries for mercy, movement of mountains, and the question He is big enough to hear and take on Himself - why God????
Moments of quiet sweetness considering the threads He weaves between my life and those around me (and oh my sweet Lord how many go unseen because I am not aware)... slammed up against times of such loud revelations of what He is doing that they demand out loud Hallelujahs from me as He shouts into my life!
I am watching this Christmas snow fall, feeling and hearing the quiet and reverent duet He and I sing to one another. Yet we are also jumping and leaping and dancing with abandonment and joy together, within my heart where He resides this morning!
Merry Christmas Jesus - thank you... its not enough, but Thank You
Marisa
Dec 25th, 2010
But I also feel a churning in my heart with the knowledge of how Heaven and the places in between it and this earth shook with the war of angels and demons to keep Him and His mother safe - and to usher in the deliverance of our Savior! Think of just how closely the evil one must have been watching the events unfold and how frantic he was to stop it!
As I think of the One called Faithful and True, how He will arrive for me one day in His full Glory and Majesty, that He gave up that Glory to become an infant that was inexpressibly Son of God and Son of man in need of food and warmth, as I am... it is beyond my understanding.
But that is, now that I think of it, how I spend most of the days on my journey here - on an exciting swinging pendulum with my God.
I am a back and forth in my thoughts on Him. There are moments of soft murmurs of praise and awe, whispers of love, silent petitions of peace for myself or someone else. Then seemingly within minutes He can reveal Himself in miracles, undeniable grandness, or something rocks me to the core and in the next breathe come my desperate pleas and cries for mercy, movement of mountains, and the question He is big enough to hear and take on Himself - why God????
Moments of quiet sweetness considering the threads He weaves between my life and those around me (and oh my sweet Lord how many go unseen because I am not aware)... slammed up against times of such loud revelations of what He is doing that they demand out loud Hallelujahs from me as He shouts into my life!
I am watching this Christmas snow fall, feeling and hearing the quiet and reverent duet He and I sing to one another. Yet we are also jumping and leaping and dancing with abandonment and joy together, within my heart where He resides this morning!
Merry Christmas Jesus - thank you... its not enough, but Thank You
Marisa
Dec 25th, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Been a weird day friends...
Ever have a day that feels at moments like its a combination of deja'vu stirred up with what it must be like to be sleep walking - yet you know you are not? Don't know if that accurately describes what this day has been like for me but I don't know what really would anyway... lets just call it 'very weird' why don't we.
I have actually had moments of great clarity today - moments mind you - but they seem to cloud over almost as quickly as they came. And when it happens its almost as if there is a haze that almost has depth and color too just out of my peripheral vision. I think if I could really see it, it might be a blueish green, swirling in and around and settling almost like a light blanket around me... not necessarily touching me or on me but around me very closely.
I'm sitting here now with the tv on, Mr Pickles lounging on the couch, my hubs Todd in his chair eating a bowl of chili, and I somehow don't feel like I'm really even in the room.
I've tried to think on and consider several things of great importance today. In those moments of clarity I managed to settle a few immediate things and address them.
But the other hazy, cloudy, dreamlike moments far outweigh those, and have been so plentiful I almost question now that the clear moments actually existed :)
It's amazing how God has wired us, with protective measures built in, so that if we stay tuned into ourselves closely enough we can recognize the flags that raise themselves up to warn us. Yep, I think He's telling me to get some sleep, sleep that hasn't been plentiful or come easily lately.
So yes, I see the flag.
I think I will eat a bowl of chili next to Mr Pickles, talk with Hubs for a bit to reconnect from spending this day apart, read Jeremiah 32:40-41, then settle down for a long winters nap.
I have actually had moments of great clarity today - moments mind you - but they seem to cloud over almost as quickly as they came. And when it happens its almost as if there is a haze that almost has depth and color too just out of my peripheral vision. I think if I could really see it, it might be a blueish green, swirling in and around and settling almost like a light blanket around me... not necessarily touching me or on me but around me very closely.
I'm sitting here now with the tv on, Mr Pickles lounging on the couch, my hubs Todd in his chair eating a bowl of chili, and I somehow don't feel like I'm really even in the room.
I've tried to think on and consider several things of great importance today. In those moments of clarity I managed to settle a few immediate things and address them.
But the other hazy, cloudy, dreamlike moments far outweigh those, and have been so plentiful I almost question now that the clear moments actually existed :)
It's amazing how God has wired us, with protective measures built in, so that if we stay tuned into ourselves closely enough we can recognize the flags that raise themselves up to warn us. Yep, I think He's telling me to get some sleep, sleep that hasn't been plentiful or come easily lately.
So yes, I see the flag.
I think I will eat a bowl of chili next to Mr Pickles, talk with Hubs for a bit to reconnect from spending this day apart, read Jeremiah 32:40-41, then settle down for a long winters nap.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Worshipping While I Wait
Well, its been a long time since I last posted... and I think I now know why. I kept wondering with as much as I enjoy writing, sharing, and pondering on paper so to speak why is it that God has literally stilled my hands?
To listen more. To learn more. To read, to hear from His Word, from His people, from His music, from His creation... at first I wondered if I did such a great job? I thought if I had that I wouldn't be so taken aback by some things in my life right now, right? Surely He plants signs along the way, right? Or does He let things take us by surprise because if we knew what was coming we would be so anxious and panicked by what was coming down the road toward us we would be frozen in place? Yes, its a mixture in life of both - but either way He knows best. He works things together for our good. He is sovereign. He is orchestrating everything from before today, in this moment, and in days to come to accomplish His Will within the choices I make - be them good or bad.
And I do believe with all my heart all these things and more about my God.
And He certainly has been speaking - through all the ways listed above and more. I am amazed each day when I am available and aware just how sweetly He does this.
And are you like me? Sometimes when He speaks do you wonder, even though you are asking for Him to, 'was I really ready for that'?
9 days ago as I literally found myself face first on the floor crying out to Him with all that is within me for some understanding on what was happening in my life, as my husband quietly played guitar leading a small group in intimate worship, as friends around me sang and prayed, and as my friend Lisa held me in her arms, weeping with me with an equally broken heart for me and my pain, and as we both questioned "Why God?!" I clearly heard Him say "Daughter, loved one, worship me while you wait"...
At first I couldn't believe what I had heard, and I cried all the harder - how could this be??? God how can you say this??? I must be hearing this wrong - my heart and head both could not comprehend it - but then there is was again... His still and calm voice in my head and in my heart again saying "Daughter, loved one, worship me while you wait"... oh my God, what you are asking - its so hard, but then He reminded me of the hard things He has done for me that were asked of Him.
And so I do - I worship while I wait on Him to show me what's next, what the questions mean, what I should do... what choice do I have but be obedient? To do anything else will not bring peace, will not bring comfort, and will not allow me true joyful deep fellowship with Him or His people.
And He is Faithful - He gave me just a clearly on a day when I was faltering badly Jeremiah 32:40-41, and then when I faltered once again He clearly gave me Psalm 27:14... and when I shared them each time the response was immediate.
(I so always love that in each of our lives He is constantly weaving threads of truth that bind us to one another)
It is confirmation that the waiting is purposeful, that it will bring promises kept so sweetly, that I can stand on the firm foundation that He is I AM...
Psalm 27:14
"Wait patiently for the Lord.
Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the Lord."
Jeremiah 32:40-41
"And I will make an everlasting covenant with them (that's us!) - I will never stop doing good for them.
I will put a desire in their hearts to worship me, and they will never leave me.
I will find joy doing good for them and will faithfully and wholeheartedly replant them in this land"
Oh Lord I want to be planted with deep roots!
I went in search again in His word on this sleepless night for some peace again, because my flesh is weak... and my need for Him to reassure me was strong - I needed to crawl up in His lap and ask Him again, Lord, when will I know the answers I seek? How will I know when I need to turn to the right or to the left? That it's you who directs me? Lord where are my answers hidden?
It was then He led me to Proverbs 2:1-11 and sinking into a warm bath I soaked in this:
1 My child, listen to what I say,
and treasure my commands.
2 Tune your ears to wisdom,
and concentrate on understanding.
3 Cry out for insight,
and ask for understanding.
4 Search for them as you would for silver;
seek them like hidden treasures.
5 Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord,
and you will gain knowledge of God.
6 For the Lord grants wisdom!
From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest.
He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.
8 He guards the paths of the just
and protects those who are faithful to him.
9 Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair,
and you will find the right way to go.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will fill you with joy.
11 Wise choices will watch over you.
Understanding will keep you safe.
Oh Jesus - how I love how you love me!
So I will ask Him again and again for wisdom and knowledge, seek the counsel of those who walk deeply with Him, cry out to Him daily, search His word for hidden treasures, I will do in the mean time what is right and do it with integrity, and I will treasure His guidance.
What ever is on the other side of my waiting, it will arrive with purpose, I will be replanted in His fertile good soil, in His time, and for His greater Glory. And even while I wait and continue to worship Him, I am still a part of His great story :)
Waiting with Joy,
Marisa
To listen more. To learn more. To read, to hear from His Word, from His people, from His music, from His creation... at first I wondered if I did such a great job? I thought if I had that I wouldn't be so taken aback by some things in my life right now, right? Surely He plants signs along the way, right? Or does He let things take us by surprise because if we knew what was coming we would be so anxious and panicked by what was coming down the road toward us we would be frozen in place? Yes, its a mixture in life of both - but either way He knows best. He works things together for our good. He is sovereign. He is orchestrating everything from before today, in this moment, and in days to come to accomplish His Will within the choices I make - be them good or bad.
And I do believe with all my heart all these things and more about my God.
And He certainly has been speaking - through all the ways listed above and more. I am amazed each day when I am available and aware just how sweetly He does this.
And are you like me? Sometimes when He speaks do you wonder, even though you are asking for Him to, 'was I really ready for that'?
9 days ago as I literally found myself face first on the floor crying out to Him with all that is within me for some understanding on what was happening in my life, as my husband quietly played guitar leading a small group in intimate worship, as friends around me sang and prayed, and as my friend Lisa held me in her arms, weeping with me with an equally broken heart for me and my pain, and as we both questioned "Why God?!" I clearly heard Him say "Daughter, loved one, worship me while you wait"...
At first I couldn't believe what I had heard, and I cried all the harder - how could this be??? God how can you say this??? I must be hearing this wrong - my heart and head both could not comprehend it - but then there is was again... His still and calm voice in my head and in my heart again saying "Daughter, loved one, worship me while you wait"... oh my God, what you are asking - its so hard, but then He reminded me of the hard things He has done for me that were asked of Him.
And so I do - I worship while I wait on Him to show me what's next, what the questions mean, what I should do... what choice do I have but be obedient? To do anything else will not bring peace, will not bring comfort, and will not allow me true joyful deep fellowship with Him or His people.
And He is Faithful - He gave me just a clearly on a day when I was faltering badly Jeremiah 32:40-41, and then when I faltered once again He clearly gave me Psalm 27:14... and when I shared them each time the response was immediate.
(I so always love that in each of our lives He is constantly weaving threads of truth that bind us to one another)
It is confirmation that the waiting is purposeful, that it will bring promises kept so sweetly, that I can stand on the firm foundation that He is I AM...
Psalm 27:14
"Wait patiently for the Lord.
Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the Lord."
Jeremiah 32:40-41
"And I will make an everlasting covenant with them (that's us!) - I will never stop doing good for them.
I will put a desire in their hearts to worship me, and they will never leave me.
I will find joy doing good for them and will faithfully and wholeheartedly replant them in this land"
Oh Lord I want to be planted with deep roots!
I went in search again in His word on this sleepless night for some peace again, because my flesh is weak... and my need for Him to reassure me was strong - I needed to crawl up in His lap and ask Him again, Lord, when will I know the answers I seek? How will I know when I need to turn to the right or to the left? That it's you who directs me? Lord where are my answers hidden?
It was then He led me to Proverbs 2:1-11 and sinking into a warm bath I soaked in this:
1 My child, listen to what I say,
and treasure my commands.
2 Tune your ears to wisdom,
and concentrate on understanding.
3 Cry out for insight,
and ask for understanding.
4 Search for them as you would for silver;
seek them like hidden treasures.
5 Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord,
and you will gain knowledge of God.
6 For the Lord grants wisdom!
From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest.
He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.
8 He guards the paths of the just
and protects those who are faithful to him.
9 Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair,
and you will find the right way to go.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will fill you with joy.
11 Wise choices will watch over you.
Understanding will keep you safe.
Oh Jesus - how I love how you love me!
So I will ask Him again and again for wisdom and knowledge, seek the counsel of those who walk deeply with Him, cry out to Him daily, search His word for hidden treasures, I will do in the mean time what is right and do it with integrity, and I will treasure His guidance.
What ever is on the other side of my waiting, it will arrive with purpose, I will be replanted in His fertile good soil, in His time, and for His greater Glory. And even while I wait and continue to worship Him, I am still a part of His great story :)
Waiting with Joy,
Marisa
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