This weekend I made the trek to Mayville, WI with friends Amy and Dan to honor not only a soldier, but a son, a brother, and a friend. A co-worker suggested I blog about the experience of this weekend, and I think that is a really good idea. Words can't possibly encapsulate everything felt and shared this weekend, but I will certainly give it a try.
I didn't quite know what to expect. I've been to plenty of funerals but not for anyone this age...and not for anyone that I really knew like I knew David. David and I were buddies in college. We were on Crosswalk together (which is Evangel's student ministries board). We both worked in the office, and I saw him on pretty much a daily basis. My friend Amy and I spent the majority of our time hacking into his Facebook, hiding his stuff, and just being flat out silly. But, he loved it, and he loved to do it right back. David almost functioned as our big brother, and boy did he get under our skin. However, at the end of the day, you couldn't help but love him.
The community was absolutely incredible. At almost every turn, there was a yellow ribbon honoring David. His name could be seen across many store fronts and signs. Not only was Mayville proud of their son, but the surrounding towns were as well. This community is a family, and they rallied behind the Johnsons in a way that I've never seen before. They carried the burden with them. They reminded me of what the body of Christ should really look like and how it should function. They were extensions of His hands and feet.
This weekend as we reminisced, we definitely felt nothing but love for our friend. We remembered all the times he frustrated us, but more importantly we remembered all the times he made us laugh. Thousands of people walked through that kid's visitation. Thousands. Way to go, David. Way to make an impact.
At his visitation, all the pictures of him just showed his zest and love for life. He looked like such a goober in the majority of his pictures, but that is the David we will remember and love. Also on display were all of the medals he was awarded. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, and a few other medals. I'm so proud of him. What a huge honor. He was only over there a month, but the impact and leadership he left will go with his family for a lifetime.
There were lots of tears shed for a friend who left too soon. David's mom said that she may not understand, but she trusts in Him. While her son's "vessel was broken and smashed, he is now whole with God." It's words like these that remind me of the hope there is in Christ...the hope we have for eternity spent with Him. His family stood strong in the face of adversity and recounted the life of someone they all hold so dear. His sister Emily touched my heart the most as her broken heart was laid out before us. He definitely left a hole.
The services ended with us going to the Mayville Veteran's Memorial Park where David was presented with the 21 gun salute and a Black Hawk fly over. The American flag was also awarded to his mom. Amy and I joked that David always told us (and everyone he knew) that he was a big deal and the coolest person we knew. Lo and behold, he really was a big deal. He was a big deal because of how he lived his life for Christ. God used him to lead so many others back and to the Lord for the first time. David's mom shared testimonies of the light people had seen in his life. David was a big deal because he decided to let God be a big deal in and through him. I couldn't be more proud of my friend.
It's been almost a year since the last time I saw him, but I will carry the many memories into the future. He showed me what it means to live.
I love you, David Johnson. Thanks for showing us what it means to be like Christ. You'll always be a big deal to me.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Peace in the Storm
It has officially been an emotional roller coaster the past four days. I received word on Wednesday that my dear friend David passed away in Afghanistan, and the news hit harder than I could have imagined. I was reminded not only of the frailty of life (David was only 24) but also that every moment spent really is precious.
While there will be a lot of grieving in the weeks and months ahead for those who knew and treasured David, I can also sense a lot of positive reflection on the time spent with him. The kid was ridiculous in more ways than one, but he had a personality that could light up any room. You had a bad day, and you better believe that in one way or another, David would be there to make you smile. While short-lived, he made it count. I will be forever grateful for who he was, because he made the choice to live. David reminds me still of how important it is to really and truly live with everything you have.
In reflecting on his passing, I find how grateful I am for the people God has surrounded me with. It is in these times that God so gently and sweetly reminds you of His goodness and faithfulness when everything around you seems so bleak. It is in moments such as these that He yearns to just wrap us so tightly in His arms and never let go...and it is this peace that I cling to in the time ahead. While I am sad to see David go, I know exactly where he is, and that is so reassuring. There have been many smiles in the past few days while reflecting and reminiscing, and these are the moments I will cherish.
The God of peace is ever present. No matter what the circumstance. Life doesn't always make sense, but I rest knowing that I am in the hand of someone who sees my every need and hears my every cry. It is in these times I feel Him drawing me closer.
Your Heavenly Father hurts with you and for you. How comforting to know that we do not walk this journey alone. How comforting to know that God surrounds us with tangible extensions of His hands and feet. I have seen the love of Christ poured out so graciously in so many of those I have spoken with in the past few days. What a blessing.
There is hope. Hope for the future. Evangel's campus pastor noted that David knew he was a citizen of heaven and a resident here on earth. I cannot wait until that day when we all stand together in the presence of our King.
What a mighty God we serve. No matter the circumstance, let Him lavish His love upon you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
While there will be a lot of grieving in the weeks and months ahead for those who knew and treasured David, I can also sense a lot of positive reflection on the time spent with him. The kid was ridiculous in more ways than one, but he had a personality that could light up any room. You had a bad day, and you better believe that in one way or another, David would be there to make you smile. While short-lived, he made it count. I will be forever grateful for who he was, because he made the choice to live. David reminds me still of how important it is to really and truly live with everything you have.
In reflecting on his passing, I find how grateful I am for the people God has surrounded me with. It is in these times that God so gently and sweetly reminds you of His goodness and faithfulness when everything around you seems so bleak. It is in moments such as these that He yearns to just wrap us so tightly in His arms and never let go...and it is this peace that I cling to in the time ahead. While I am sad to see David go, I know exactly where he is, and that is so reassuring. There have been many smiles in the past few days while reflecting and reminiscing, and these are the moments I will cherish.
The God of peace is ever present. No matter what the circumstance. Life doesn't always make sense, but I rest knowing that I am in the hand of someone who sees my every need and hears my every cry. It is in these times I feel Him drawing me closer.
Your Heavenly Father hurts with you and for you. How comforting to know that we do not walk this journey alone. How comforting to know that God surrounds us with tangible extensions of His hands and feet. I have seen the love of Christ poured out so graciously in so many of those I have spoken with in the past few days. What a blessing.
There is hope. Hope for the future. Evangel's campus pastor noted that David knew he was a citizen of heaven and a resident here on earth. I cannot wait until that day when we all stand together in the presence of our King.
What a mighty God we serve. No matter the circumstance, let Him lavish His love upon you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Waiting
Anxiousness. Anticipation. Monotony. These are all words that have encompassed my vocabulary for the past couple of months. My to-do list for work is a mile high, but before I'm going to be able to be 100% productive (as I most definitely need to be), there's a ramble that's been building up in me for quite some time.
I feel like I am in one of the most awkward transition stages of my life. I get up, go to work, come home, do random things, and go to bed. I wake up the next day and do it all over again. Granted, my weekends are usually never spent at home, but I have felt such a sense of routine that it's making me a little stir-crazy. (Warning: transparent blog post ahead that will probably have no rhyme or reason.)
I am spontaneous and an adventurer at heart. I have always loved being outdoors, traveling, and meeting new people. I appreciate structure but love the freedom to go wherever my heart desires and at any given time (something that being single helps with).
I want more.
Being back in Wichita has been great for many reasons. I have loved being able to spend some good time with my family, re-connecting with old friends and making new, and being able to save up some money as I'm trying to pay off school.
However, I can't help but dream about the future. God has made me the way I am for a reason and being a dreamer has always been a part of that equation. For those of you who don't know, my heart's dream for awhile has been to travel and do conferences (specifically geared towards women) and continue being involved with inner-city in some shape or form. Lately, it's all I've thought about. I cannot wait to see how God grows and develops this (and completely changes it from anything I've ever imagined). At work we have been reading a book called "The Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson, and it speaks of circling your dreams and God's will for your life in prayer. (There's a lot more to it, but that's a post for another day). In this, I have been reminded of not only the power but the absolute necessity in a continuous and intentional prayer life. I have been reminded that God is not afraid of my dreams...He's given me bold ones for a reason.
While being in Wichita, God has challenged me more and more to consistently and fervently seek after Him with all that I have and all that I am. Every time I really seek Him, it's amazing how life just seems to fall into place in ways that I never even imagined. It's funny, God generally shows me what I needed in that moment before I ever knew what I needed. So here I am...waiting on the Lord as I continue to dream about the future. The next few months will be exciting in that I get to be even more involved in our youth group as we transition out of having our current youth pastor. As our current pastors move on to God's next chapter for them, I am excited to be a part of investing and helping to develop these teenagers lives.
However I am also reminded (even more so after reading my friend Sarah's blog) that I am not waiting for my life to start even though I feel like I am in a rut of epic proportions. To be honest, being single hasn't even been something that I've dwelt on in this waiting phase. Oh sure it comes up from time to time, but I am joyful that God is growing and developing me as a young, single woman. I am loving it. The waiting I speak of this time is in what lies ahead...the dreams God has so heavily placed in my heart. But I am reminded that God has me where I am for a reason. People keep telling me to not let myself get too comfortable, and believe you me, I feel anything but comfortable. I just feel flat out anxious. But God keeps gently (so glad He's patient) reminding me that He is teaching me, equipping me, and chipping away at so much that I'd never really let Him take care of before. The dreams I have are God-sized, and only He can can make them what they are meant to be. As this time in my life is a hard one, I know that it will be a time I look back on and see so much growth. I know that God's hand is ever present, and I want nothing less than to seek Him and His desires for my life both present and future. His joy and peace are what I yearn for. He is all I want and need.
In a previous posting (though I can't remember which one for the life of me), I mentioned feeling as though God was preparing me for spiritual boot camp. Well, glad God likes to give a heads up because it has been an intense few months. However, I hold on to the promises not only for the future but for today. I don't know how God will take my life, but I know He wants to teach me something today...He wants to use me now and not just in five to ten years.
As I continue to wait upon the Lord, I pray for a renewed sense of peace as I trust that He is orchestrating something far greater than I could have ever imagined.
That is a long enough ramble for now. Thanks for letting me spew random thoughts in any given direction.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
I feel like I am in one of the most awkward transition stages of my life. I get up, go to work, come home, do random things, and go to bed. I wake up the next day and do it all over again. Granted, my weekends are usually never spent at home, but I have felt such a sense of routine that it's making me a little stir-crazy. (Warning: transparent blog post ahead that will probably have no rhyme or reason.)
I am spontaneous and an adventurer at heart. I have always loved being outdoors, traveling, and meeting new people. I appreciate structure but love the freedom to go wherever my heart desires and at any given time (something that being single helps with).
I want more.
Being back in Wichita has been great for many reasons. I have loved being able to spend some good time with my family, re-connecting with old friends and making new, and being able to save up some money as I'm trying to pay off school.
However, I can't help but dream about the future. God has made me the way I am for a reason and being a dreamer has always been a part of that equation. For those of you who don't know, my heart's dream for awhile has been to travel and do conferences (specifically geared towards women) and continue being involved with inner-city in some shape or form. Lately, it's all I've thought about. I cannot wait to see how God grows and develops this (and completely changes it from anything I've ever imagined). At work we have been reading a book called "The Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson, and it speaks of circling your dreams and God's will for your life in prayer. (There's a lot more to it, but that's a post for another day). In this, I have been reminded of not only the power but the absolute necessity in a continuous and intentional prayer life. I have been reminded that God is not afraid of my dreams...He's given me bold ones for a reason.
While being in Wichita, God has challenged me more and more to consistently and fervently seek after Him with all that I have and all that I am. Every time I really seek Him, it's amazing how life just seems to fall into place in ways that I never even imagined. It's funny, God generally shows me what I needed in that moment before I ever knew what I needed. So here I am...waiting on the Lord as I continue to dream about the future. The next few months will be exciting in that I get to be even more involved in our youth group as we transition out of having our current youth pastor. As our current pastors move on to God's next chapter for them, I am excited to be a part of investing and helping to develop these teenagers lives.
However I am also reminded (even more so after reading my friend Sarah's blog) that I am not waiting for my life to start even though I feel like I am in a rut of epic proportions. To be honest, being single hasn't even been something that I've dwelt on in this waiting phase. Oh sure it comes up from time to time, but I am joyful that God is growing and developing me as a young, single woman. I am loving it. The waiting I speak of this time is in what lies ahead...the dreams God has so heavily placed in my heart. But I am reminded that God has me where I am for a reason. People keep telling me to not let myself get too comfortable, and believe you me, I feel anything but comfortable. I just feel flat out anxious. But God keeps gently (so glad He's patient) reminding me that He is teaching me, equipping me, and chipping away at so much that I'd never really let Him take care of before. The dreams I have are God-sized, and only He can can make them what they are meant to be. As this time in my life is a hard one, I know that it will be a time I look back on and see so much growth. I know that God's hand is ever present, and I want nothing less than to seek Him and His desires for my life both present and future. His joy and peace are what I yearn for. He is all I want and need.
In a previous posting (though I can't remember which one for the life of me), I mentioned feeling as though God was preparing me for spiritual boot camp. Well, glad God likes to give a heads up because it has been an intense few months. However, I hold on to the promises not only for the future but for today. I don't know how God will take my life, but I know He wants to teach me something today...He wants to use me now and not just in five to ten years.
As I continue to wait upon the Lord, I pray for a renewed sense of peace as I trust that He is orchestrating something far greater than I could have ever imagined.
That is a long enough ramble for now. Thanks for letting me spew random thoughts in any given direction.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Remembering the Reason
I love this time of year. Absolutely love it. Christmas spirit makes me jolly beyond compare (yes, I am jolly), and I blast the same Christmas songs over and over again. My heart is filled with song as I see houses lit with beautiful lights, and I about go into over-excited fits when these houses are set to music. (I'm not kidding.) My favorite activity this time of year is to grab a good 'ol cup of Starbucks joe and hit the road to see what Wichita (or Springfield as was the case for four years) has to offer my eyes.
However, in the midst of all this, I have found myself unbelievably cranky. I find my attitude resembling that of my arch nemesis the Grinch, and I wonder what has caused me to slip into such a grumbly way of being. I have a lot to be thankful for: fantastic friends, a loving family, and a job in the midst of economic turmoil. So why am I so crabby? And then it hits me. In the midst of the commercialism (and don't get me wrong, I love lights, music, and the atmosphere just as much as anyone), I have forgotten why Christmas is even worth celebrating in the first place.
Christ has given me reason to have joy beyond the norm. I realize the incredible gift in one baby coming to this earth and remember the saving grace that was sent as the greatest gift to mankind. In this grace comes the beauty of redemption, and I am finding that redemption new everyday.
Ever since I walked across the stage at James River in May, God has been chiseling away at everything I was too busy to deal with. This has been one of the most incredible times of growth, and it is really and truly growth that is only just beginning. God has already shown himself to me in more ways than I could have ever imagined, and I cannot wait to see what else He has in store. This Christmas season, I really choose to believe in the gift of complete and total healing. God is preparing me for what I feel will resemble spiritual boot camp, but I am ready to face it head on. I am ready for Him to break every single chain.
Christ is the true light of the world, and His brilliance should (and does) excite me far more than any one light. I am humbled to think that He loved me enough to die in my place so that I could spend an eternity with Him. Christmas reminds me of that one true light and how its radiance is shining into the darkest and coldest places of my sometimes very Grinch-like heart. As we quickly leave the year 2011, I choose to let the light of Christ lead me on a very exciting journey ahead. I will remember the reason for the season and hold tightly to the promise that I have found in the love of my Savior.
As I gaze upon the decorations and eat to my heart's content (come on, it's holiday time. Who doesn't enjoy Christmas cookies??), I will remember that in one little baby, I have been completely set free. Instead of being caught up in the hustle and bustle and inevitable stress that comes with the holiday season, I will strive to see the redemption that came with the most perfect gift. Let God prepare your heart. He has something great in store for you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
However, in the midst of all this, I have found myself unbelievably cranky. I find my attitude resembling that of my arch nemesis the Grinch, and I wonder what has caused me to slip into such a grumbly way of being. I have a lot to be thankful for: fantastic friends, a loving family, and a job in the midst of economic turmoil. So why am I so crabby? And then it hits me. In the midst of the commercialism (and don't get me wrong, I love lights, music, and the atmosphere just as much as anyone), I have forgotten why Christmas is even worth celebrating in the first place.
Christ has given me reason to have joy beyond the norm. I realize the incredible gift in one baby coming to this earth and remember the saving grace that was sent as the greatest gift to mankind. In this grace comes the beauty of redemption, and I am finding that redemption new everyday.
Ever since I walked across the stage at James River in May, God has been chiseling away at everything I was too busy to deal with. This has been one of the most incredible times of growth, and it is really and truly growth that is only just beginning. God has already shown himself to me in more ways than I could have ever imagined, and I cannot wait to see what else He has in store. This Christmas season, I really choose to believe in the gift of complete and total healing. God is preparing me for what I feel will resemble spiritual boot camp, but I am ready to face it head on. I am ready for Him to break every single chain.
Christ is the true light of the world, and His brilliance should (and does) excite me far more than any one light. I am humbled to think that He loved me enough to die in my place so that I could spend an eternity with Him. Christmas reminds me of that one true light and how its radiance is shining into the darkest and coldest places of my sometimes very Grinch-like heart. As we quickly leave the year 2011, I choose to let the light of Christ lead me on a very exciting journey ahead. I will remember the reason for the season and hold tightly to the promise that I have found in the love of my Savior.
As I gaze upon the decorations and eat to my heart's content (come on, it's holiday time. Who doesn't enjoy Christmas cookies??), I will remember that in one little baby, I have been completely set free. Instead of being caught up in the hustle and bustle and inevitable stress that comes with the holiday season, I will strive to see the redemption that came with the most perfect gift. Let God prepare your heart. He has something great in store for you.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Surrendering the Pen
I know I said that the next post I posted would be about the book I just finished, "When God Writes Your Love Story," but that will have to come at another time. My heart has something else it wants to share.
God never ceases to amaze me. This weekend came with an amazing opportunity and some wonderful time spent with some incredible people.
This weekend I was privileged to listen to my wonderful friend Olivia play for her senior recital. This girl can play the violin like no one's business, let me tell ya. However, my favorite part of the entire recital was watching her and her dad play the song he had composed for her. Not only was it beautiful because he wrote an incredible piece, it was beautiful because they played it together.
This thought has challenged my heart. God has written a beautiful piece for each and every one of our lives. He has pounded out the notes, the phrasing, the crescendos, all of it. And He has written it specifically for us. As humans, it is very easy to want to add in our own "notes" and "rhythms" as we see fit. But, in doing this, we take away from the essence of the masterpiece He wants to enjoy with us. His song is so much better than any one person can compose on their own.
At the end of the piece, Olivia and her dad received a standing ovation. Not only was everyone moved by the beauty of the piece but by the fact that they were able to share in the piece that was created just for them. It was incredible.
God, in this weekend, reminded me of the own song He has written for my life, and this one is not just metaphorically speaking. Many of you remember the dream that God gave me during Christmas break last year. (If not, I dedicated a post to it so feel free to check it out!) A good friend reminded me of something I had said about the song given to me in my dream: "If I record any song in my life, this will be it." This weekend was that moment.
During the chapel I got to speak at in April, I played this very song for the Evangel University student body. Sitting in the room that day was a music major named Joel who happens to be roommates with Travis who happens to be the fiance of the aforementioned Olivia - look how connected life is! Joel told Travis who told Olivia who passed along to me that he wanted to record that song. I communicated with him, got a time set up, and bam! We recorded it this weekend.
The experience was surreal. Never in a million years would I have imagined that I would get the opportunity to record. However, God so pleasantly reminded me that this is NOT my song; it's His. He wrote the notes, gave it the phrasing and rhythms, and put it in my dream. He composed a beautiful piece not only for me but one to be shared.
I was so nervous to record this song. I wanted to do it but didn't at all feel good enough. Let me give you a recap of the conversation between God and I:
- "Um, God, I do not think I am nearly good enough to record this song. I am scared to death."
- "My child, it is not your song. It is Mine that I have let you jot down for me. Don't be selfish. Sing My song. It is meant to bless the world. I will enable you and give you the confidence you need. Don't be afraid."
Well, when God puts things like that, how can you tell Him no.
I ran through it before with my dear friend Deanna (who is great at calming nerves), and then I recorded it. I was so blessed to have dear friends there to hear the recording process as well. Joel was so gracious to do it for me. He is going to mix in a full band, and I really cannot wait to hear the finished product. God definitely enabled me. I have no idea how He is going to use this song or even to what capacity. I have no idea who will hear it or if it will even travel beyond the ears of those who have already heard its words. However, it's Gods to do with what He pleases. In the bridge the lyrics talk about going into the world and singing this song of love. If that's what God wants, by George I will do it! (I know, who says by George anymore?)
As Olivia and her dad played the piece he had so beautifully composed for her, I was reminded that I don't ever want to be afraid or feel like I cannot play the piece God is writing for me. My life's song has barely started, but I cannot wait to see how He pens it all out.
Don't be afraid to surrender your own pen. He's got something beautiful waiting for you.
Thanks for letting me ramble.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
God never ceases to amaze me. This weekend came with an amazing opportunity and some wonderful time spent with some incredible people.
This weekend I was privileged to listen to my wonderful friend Olivia play for her senior recital. This girl can play the violin like no one's business, let me tell ya. However, my favorite part of the entire recital was watching her and her dad play the song he had composed for her. Not only was it beautiful because he wrote an incredible piece, it was beautiful because they played it together.
This thought has challenged my heart. God has written a beautiful piece for each and every one of our lives. He has pounded out the notes, the phrasing, the crescendos, all of it. And He has written it specifically for us. As humans, it is very easy to want to add in our own "notes" and "rhythms" as we see fit. But, in doing this, we take away from the essence of the masterpiece He wants to enjoy with us. His song is so much better than any one person can compose on their own.
At the end of the piece, Olivia and her dad received a standing ovation. Not only was everyone moved by the beauty of the piece but by the fact that they were able to share in the piece that was created just for them. It was incredible.
God, in this weekend, reminded me of the own song He has written for my life, and this one is not just metaphorically speaking. Many of you remember the dream that God gave me during Christmas break last year. (If not, I dedicated a post to it so feel free to check it out!) A good friend reminded me of something I had said about the song given to me in my dream: "If I record any song in my life, this will be it." This weekend was that moment.
During the chapel I got to speak at in April, I played this very song for the Evangel University student body. Sitting in the room that day was a music major named Joel who happens to be roommates with Travis who happens to be the fiance of the aforementioned Olivia - look how connected life is! Joel told Travis who told Olivia who passed along to me that he wanted to record that song. I communicated with him, got a time set up, and bam! We recorded it this weekend.
The experience was surreal. Never in a million years would I have imagined that I would get the opportunity to record. However, God so pleasantly reminded me that this is NOT my song; it's His. He wrote the notes, gave it the phrasing and rhythms, and put it in my dream. He composed a beautiful piece not only for me but one to be shared.
I was so nervous to record this song. I wanted to do it but didn't at all feel good enough. Let me give you a recap of the conversation between God and I:
- "Um, God, I do not think I am nearly good enough to record this song. I am scared to death."
- "My child, it is not your song. It is Mine that I have let you jot down for me. Don't be selfish. Sing My song. It is meant to bless the world. I will enable you and give you the confidence you need. Don't be afraid."
Well, when God puts things like that, how can you tell Him no.
I ran through it before with my dear friend Deanna (who is great at calming nerves), and then I recorded it. I was so blessed to have dear friends there to hear the recording process as well. Joel was so gracious to do it for me. He is going to mix in a full band, and I really cannot wait to hear the finished product. God definitely enabled me. I have no idea how He is going to use this song or even to what capacity. I have no idea who will hear it or if it will even travel beyond the ears of those who have already heard its words. However, it's Gods to do with what He pleases. In the bridge the lyrics talk about going into the world and singing this song of love. If that's what God wants, by George I will do it! (I know, who says by George anymore?)
As Olivia and her dad played the piece he had so beautifully composed for her, I was reminded that I don't ever want to be afraid or feel like I cannot play the piece God is writing for me. My life's song has barely started, but I cannot wait to see how He pens it all out.
Don't be afraid to surrender your own pen. He's got something beautiful waiting for you.
Thanks for letting me ramble.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Power in the Written Word
When I was a kid, reading was all I did. I remember being part of programs in which you would get points for reading books, and with those points came rewards. Tell any child they will get a prize (whether it be the latest Power Ranger, stuffed animal, or a pizza party), and you can generally get them to do just about anything.
So, I always, always read. I prided myself on being able to read at a ninth grade level in the fourth grade. It was the little things in life that I had to look forward to.
However, as I got older, I found less and less time to read. In fact, reading became anything but fun due to the fact that it became a necessity to pass my classes. Reading 100 + pages on the molecular make-up of the human body never really tickled my fancy. However, once college ended, I discovered all the time in the world to dive into the untapped pages I once so frequently visited.
My friend Paige is an avid reader (as is most of her family). She began to throw book after book at me (not really, but I like the dramatic emphasis), and I discovered why I love reading so much. However, she told me about one book in particular that I HAD to read. It's called "When God Writes Your Love Story." The title alone frightened me.
It seems as though most of the world around me is either getting married or in a serious relationship. It became really hard for me to not get frustrated that I hadn't found my special someone. When Paige gave me this book, I thought to myself "wonderful, another self-help book to help me get over my impatience in not having found anyone yet...I cannot wait to see how this goes..." I know, my attitude rocked. No worries, after reading just the first few pages, my mind became opened to a whole new world.
I have not finished the book, but I will be giving it a full report once I have. It is written from a very human perspective, which I love and appreciate more than anything. The authors are Eric and Leslie Ludy, and they walk the reader through what pretty much everyone deals with in this realm. However, they so carefully reminded me that my love story is not intended to be written by me; it's intended to be written by God.
I'm almost half-way through the book, and these are some of the wonderful insights I have gleaned:
- Give God the pen to my love story and completely surrender every aspect of my
life.
- Be completely satisfied with only Him.
- Live as though my future spouse can see me.
- Ask God to guard EVERY aspect of my life and heart.
The thing that blows my mind the most is that He is genuinely interested in writing me the best love story ever. So why in the world have I been so impatient and tried to write my own pages? The book talks about viewing other Christian guys as pilgrims and not potentials. Ding ding ding, what a revelation.
Already my eyes have been opened to something I really did not ever think about; Jesus is truly interested in my love story. Why? Because He's the best author for the job.
This week I have REALLY began to relinquish control in my life and especially in that area. As I have done this, I have found myself even more satisfied with just being with my King. As I sit and dwell on all He has done for me, I feel foolish for not trusting Him with this oh so fragile part of my life. Who better to entrust my heart to than Christ?
When I finish the book, I will dedicate an entire post to it. I encourage you, read it. It's awesome. Seriously.
In a day and age where we are so consumed by technology, sometimes it's better to sit down and let ourselves be enlightened by the revelations God shares with His children.
Wow. I'm dumb-founded.
Until I finish the book, I leave with these thoughts.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
So, I always, always read. I prided myself on being able to read at a ninth grade level in the fourth grade. It was the little things in life that I had to look forward to.
However, as I got older, I found less and less time to read. In fact, reading became anything but fun due to the fact that it became a necessity to pass my classes. Reading 100 + pages on the molecular make-up of the human body never really tickled my fancy. However, once college ended, I discovered all the time in the world to dive into the untapped pages I once so frequently visited.
My friend Paige is an avid reader (as is most of her family). She began to throw book after book at me (not really, but I like the dramatic emphasis), and I discovered why I love reading so much. However, she told me about one book in particular that I HAD to read. It's called "When God Writes Your Love Story." The title alone frightened me.
It seems as though most of the world around me is either getting married or in a serious relationship. It became really hard for me to not get frustrated that I hadn't found my special someone. When Paige gave me this book, I thought to myself "wonderful, another self-help book to help me get over my impatience in not having found anyone yet...I cannot wait to see how this goes..." I know, my attitude rocked. No worries, after reading just the first few pages, my mind became opened to a whole new world.
I have not finished the book, but I will be giving it a full report once I have. It is written from a very human perspective, which I love and appreciate more than anything. The authors are Eric and Leslie Ludy, and they walk the reader through what pretty much everyone deals with in this realm. However, they so carefully reminded me that my love story is not intended to be written by me; it's intended to be written by God.
I'm almost half-way through the book, and these are some of the wonderful insights I have gleaned:
- Give God the pen to my love story and completely surrender every aspect of my
life.
- Be completely satisfied with only Him.
- Live as though my future spouse can see me.
- Ask God to guard EVERY aspect of my life and heart.
The thing that blows my mind the most is that He is genuinely interested in writing me the best love story ever. So why in the world have I been so impatient and tried to write my own pages? The book talks about viewing other Christian guys as pilgrims and not potentials. Ding ding ding, what a revelation.
Already my eyes have been opened to something I really did not ever think about; Jesus is truly interested in my love story. Why? Because He's the best author for the job.
This week I have REALLY began to relinquish control in my life and especially in that area. As I have done this, I have found myself even more satisfied with just being with my King. As I sit and dwell on all He has done for me, I feel foolish for not trusting Him with this oh so fragile part of my life. Who better to entrust my heart to than Christ?
When I finish the book, I will dedicate an entire post to it. I encourage you, read it. It's awesome. Seriously.
In a day and age where we are so consumed by technology, sometimes it's better to sit down and let ourselves be enlightened by the revelations God shares with His children.
Wow. I'm dumb-founded.
Until I finish the book, I leave with these thoughts.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Endless Opportunities
These past couple of weeks have been extremely joyful.
There is something about fall that makes me really excited inside. I don't know if it's the change in colors, the wonderful air, or the fact that I don't have to write papers anymore so I can actually enjoy it! This season has become one of my favorites. I love hot cider, bonfires, and the beauty that comes with this time of year.
This fall has also brought on some new experiences for me, and they are experiences I am thoroughly enjoying. I am now a youth sponsor at my church and am loving the connection time I am getting. It's funny, for an age group I said I would never work with, they are really starting to grow on me. It's definitely a different perspective to be on this end of things. I remember sitting in the youth group and admiring those that were older than me. I remember hoping and wishing that they would come talk to me and want to make an investment in my life. Now here I am, at that very age, and so blessed to be able to get that chance.
I already know several of the girls in the youth group. A couple of them I have known for pretty much forever. However, I don't want to miss out on an opportunity to invest in that girl who feels like she has no one. I don't want to miss out on that girl who wishes someone would just come talk to her. Being the age I am, I have a rare window of time to show the love of Christ to these girls in a different way. Granted, we have some stinking awesome youth sponsors, and I love them all dearly. I just feel really excited about being able to show God to these young ladies in a different light.
I've been looking back a lot on the first person to really invest in my walk with Christ, and the impact she has had will last forever. I hope that I can show even just a fraction of what she showed me about God. God has already began to open the door of connection with some of these teenagers, and I can't wait to see how He opens it even more. I believe in a generation who does not find their worth in the eyes of a guy, of a tabloid image, or in what the world says they should be. I believe in a generation who finds their worth and value in the eyes of the King who loves and adores them more than they could ever know. My heart is for these girls and for these women who don't believe in themselves. I will never forget who first believed in me. I want these girls to know that I believe in them.
Being a youth sponsor has also given me the opportunity to be surrounded by some amazing women. I love the openness I feel in talking to them. I love being able to hear their hearts. I love how crazy and goofy they are. In essence, I just love them.
All in all, I am humbled yet again. God has given me an AMAZING opportunity in being with this youth group, and I am not going to take it for granted. I pray that in every conversation I have, every hug I give, and every amount of time I spend, these youth see that God loves and believes in them.
What an exciting time in life. :)
I'll keep you posted.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
There is something about fall that makes me really excited inside. I don't know if it's the change in colors, the wonderful air, or the fact that I don't have to write papers anymore so I can actually enjoy it! This season has become one of my favorites. I love hot cider, bonfires, and the beauty that comes with this time of year.
This fall has also brought on some new experiences for me, and they are experiences I am thoroughly enjoying. I am now a youth sponsor at my church and am loving the connection time I am getting. It's funny, for an age group I said I would never work with, they are really starting to grow on me. It's definitely a different perspective to be on this end of things. I remember sitting in the youth group and admiring those that were older than me. I remember hoping and wishing that they would come talk to me and want to make an investment in my life. Now here I am, at that very age, and so blessed to be able to get that chance.
I already know several of the girls in the youth group. A couple of them I have known for pretty much forever. However, I don't want to miss out on an opportunity to invest in that girl who feels like she has no one. I don't want to miss out on that girl who wishes someone would just come talk to her. Being the age I am, I have a rare window of time to show the love of Christ to these girls in a different way. Granted, we have some stinking awesome youth sponsors, and I love them all dearly. I just feel really excited about being able to show God to these young ladies in a different light.
I've been looking back a lot on the first person to really invest in my walk with Christ, and the impact she has had will last forever. I hope that I can show even just a fraction of what she showed me about God. God has already began to open the door of connection with some of these teenagers, and I can't wait to see how He opens it even more. I believe in a generation who does not find their worth in the eyes of a guy, of a tabloid image, or in what the world says they should be. I believe in a generation who finds their worth and value in the eyes of the King who loves and adores them more than they could ever know. My heart is for these girls and for these women who don't believe in themselves. I will never forget who first believed in me. I want these girls to know that I believe in them.
Being a youth sponsor has also given me the opportunity to be surrounded by some amazing women. I love the openness I feel in talking to them. I love being able to hear their hearts. I love how crazy and goofy they are. In essence, I just love them.
All in all, I am humbled yet again. God has given me an AMAZING opportunity in being with this youth group, and I am not going to take it for granted. I pray that in every conversation I have, every hug I give, and every amount of time I spend, these youth see that God loves and believes in them.
What an exciting time in life. :)
I'll keep you posted.
Love you guys.
In Him,
Em
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