My Desire for 2007

It's almost a new year and that generally means it's a good time to reflect and come up with some goals for the next year.

I had an interesting conversation with my sister-in-law over Christmas. We were discussing some of the friends in my life who are not Christians. She really challenged me to see them as eternal beings and souls that need to be saved.

Too often I let fear determine the destination of my conversations with these friends. For a moment there is an opportunity to share about my Jesus, my faith, my assurance, and I let fear steer my words towards an "easier" subject... or, I'll water down my words like, "I'll pray for you". Not that prayer is a bad thing (clearly!)...but I think sometimes I over use the phrase and skim over the words that should be said.

I just look back on this year and wonder how many times God may have been watching me saying "Okay, Kristen, here's a good opportunity to talk about My love..." and I drop the ball. Even when it is so clear that a friend needs His love so very badly, I selfishly keep my mouth shut.

Maybe my 2007 goal should be as PM says, to not be afraid to look like a fool! If I truly care so deeply about these friends in my life, I should be more concerned about where they are going when this life is over. Hell is real and the suffering is eternal.

I'm looking forward to having you girls continue to challenge me in my walk with Christ and I ask you to help keep me accountable in this area.

Happy New Year!

Fun Praise

I have a fun praise that I want to share with everyone!
I bought a co-worker a copy of In a Pit and gave it to her yesterday. She is someone who I just love and has been in my prayers for awhile now.

She called me up today and asked if we could eat lunch together. As it turns out, she read the first chapter of the book last night and had a TON of questions about NCC. She then asked if she could come to church with me sometime.

WOW! What a fantastic tool to open up lines of communication!

I heart NCC.

:)

Anyone psyched for our next journey?

I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL NEXT SEMESTER STARTS!

I know, I know-- this semester has not even officially ended yet. Clearly, I know this... but STILL! I am sooooooooo excited about "The Journey of Desire" !!!!

"Is desire holy?... the word 'desire' has lost its currency... Our problem is not that we desire too much, but that we desire too little... In the quiet moments of the day we sense a nagging within, a discontent, a hunger for something else. But because we have not solved the riddle of our existence, we assume that something is wrong-- not with life, but with us... Many Christians live with a nagging awareness that if they feel their hunger deeply it will undo them... But to live life fully-- to live life as God meant for us to live-- demands a full recovery of our heart..."

Oh, ladies, I can't wait!

Come on baby light my fire

Does anyone else need a fire lit under their butt?... sometimes I wonder how long a "season" will be.

Friday, December 1 is WORLD AIDS DAY

Join the HIV Hope and Help small group at the World AIDS Day Candlelight Vigil at Freedom Plaza at 5:45pm on Friday, December 1.

Following the vigil, the film “Yesterday” will be showing at 7:30 p.m. at Ebenezers Coffeehouse. The film depicts the physical and emotional struggle of a South African family with HIV—a powerful and unforgettable story of overcoming adversity.

Please feel free to attend either or both events and invite others to join us. Contact Lanre for more details or with questions.

Guide Questions: Romans 15 & 16

Here are the questions for Romans 15-16:


1. Paul praises several people in Romans 16: 1-15 for things they have done. What deeds and qualities does he command? Nine out of the twenty seven people Paul names are women. What does this imply about Paul's relationships with women?

2. In what ways is Romans 15:4 relevant to our lives? In Romans 15:4&13, Paul speaks about hope not love or faith. How is hope necessary for the accepting, self denying behavior Paul urges.

3. What is your greatest ambition? How does it compare to Paul's (Romans 15:20)?

4. How can you do for some missionary what Paul wanted the Roman Christians to do for him? (Romans 15:24, 30-32) Why is this kind of help important?


That's a wrap for our study of Romans! What has impacted you the most from this study? What are you taking away from this semester?

Happy After-Turkey Day! =)

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!

Thanks for everyone who came last week! I had a great time catching up with all of you! (not to mention, enjoyed the delicious tiramisu! Thanks, Daphne! =))

This week we will be discussing Romans 13 and 14. (There are no discussion questions for Romans 14. Feel free to bring your questions!)

Also, here is the agenda for the rest of the semester:

November 28th: Romans 13 & 14
December 5th: Romans 15 & 16
December 12th: Christmas Party

Looking forward to see you tomorrow!

Guide questions: Romans 13

Sorry for the delay with these. Here are some questions to ponder for Chapter 13:

1. Why should Christians submit to governing authorities? Should a Christian take part in revolution against an established regime? What about non-violent civil disobedience?

2. In Romans 13:7, Paul tells us to give everyone what we owe him. To whom do you owe taxes and revenue? Respect? Honor? Other debts? How does Luke 20:20-26 shed light on Romans 13:7?

3. Towards laws and public officials, our standard conduct is "give everyone what you owe him"-- this is justice. However, when we deal with individuals in business and private, we have an ever higher standard; we owe a debt that can never be fully paid (Romans 13:8-14). What sorts of actions communicate love to you? How can you do these things for others?

4. What does it mean that "love is the fulfillment of the law" Romans 13:10; compare Matthew 22:34-40?

5. Because of our approaching salvation, Paul tells us to do several things. Explain each of the phrases in your own words:
"wake up from your slumber" (Romans 13:11, see 1 Thessalonians 5:1-8),
"put aside the deeds of darkness" (Romans 13:12),
"put on the armor of light" (Romans 13:12, see Ephesians 6:10-18),
"clothe yourself in the Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 13:14).

Don't forget Catacombs/baptism this Sunday at Ebz: 6pm!

Blog on!

Angel Tree update

So, we've got our kids!!! A little 2 year old boy and a 14 year old girl. Between the two of them, we are going to be spending about $80 total. That breaks down to about $10 each.... so start budgeting toward that... More details to be given at group.

I also wanted to share this really cool story that was on Zonegathering today, from a fellow NCC leader. Check out Omar's story about Angel Tree!

Thinking forward

Sorry to bombard blogsphere with all these details, but this is important. The deadline to submit material to the small group pass book for next semester is fast approaching. We started talking about this in group on Tuesday, but lots of people were not present so I wanted to open it up.

We are trying to think of topics/areas that we would like to explore in group next semester. Feel free to use this space to make new suggestions or to comment. We'll talk more about this on Tuesday also.

Here are some of the ideas we've hit on so far:

- Study Pastor Mark's book "In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day". We would explore what it means to seize opportunities and see problems as God-ordained situations for our growth and development

- Love Experiments: Working from the principles of the 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman, explore Biblical and practical applications of loving and serving God, ourselves and our communities (there are several editions of the love languages book for singles, married people, kids, etc. but the 5 principles are the same and we would study and work with those)

- Journey of Desire: Reading through this powerful book about understanding our desires, we would find Biblical support and practical ways to live life out of the passion and purpose for which God has called us.

- Another inductive bible study: old or new testament, Nehemiah, perhaps, Isaiah?

- Captivated: Based on Captivating by John and Staci Eldredge, explore themes specifically for women and our lives.

Let's hear your thoughts and comments; are there topics you want to discuss that aren't listed here? People of the bible you want to explore? Questions you want to dive into? Sound off!!

Guide questions Romans 12

Those of you who were in this group last semester will remember that this chapter is what prompted our journey into Romans this semester. It holds a special place for me because of that and I am really looking forward to discussing this again (and anew) with everyone.

Also, this week's reading of Romans chapter 12 marks our entry into the last section of Romans. In the first 11 chapters, Paul has set out what to believe by highlighting our sinfulness, and how to receive forgiveness through faith. In the last 4 chapters, he talks about how to behave by giving guidelines for living as redeemed people in a fallen world.

Here are some questions and applications to think through for next week.

1. Name one aspect of the 'pattern of this world' that is currently tempting you to conform to it. Is there any specific way you can apply Romans 12:1-2 with regard to the temptation you named? Make a list of ways you still conform to the world, and ask the Holy Spirit to transform your mind with regard to these. Find Scriptures to meditate on to help you.

2. What kinds of needs are the gifts Paul named in 12:6-8 designed to meet? How could you participate in meeting one or more of those needs? Write down a function in our church or the larger Body of Christ that you either are fulfilling now or are able to fulfill. If necessary, ask God to show you at least one function for which He has gifted you.

3. Based on Romans 12:9, if our love must be 'sincere', should we not do loving acts unless we feel affectionate towards someone? In what ways is Christian love more than just emotion? (See 1 John 3:17-18) Ask God to show you if your love is insincere in any way. Mediate on Romans 12:9-21 and look for opportunities to act in sincere love this week.

4. How can we be sure that our kindness to our enemies stems from sincere love and not a desire to make them feel guilty? (Romans 12:19-20)

Blog on!

More lions

Okay. We've got two choices, two lions. This one is 12 inches (I am hopeless with dimensions, so help me out if you think it is too small or too big...) and it is $11.95.

The Narnia one, below, is 20 inches and $23.99.

If you all can vote on here, I'll get it ordered so hopefully we can get this taken care of.

Guide Questions for Romans 11

Ladies, here are the questions for Romans 11:

1. How is Romans 11:29 an encouragement to you? How can you respond to this encouragement?

2. How does Paul describe God in Romans 11:33-36? Note as many observations as you can. How can you let these truth about God affect your decisions and concerns?
Look for at least 1 concrete way to act on these facts.

3. Do you ever have the attitude Paul rebukes in 11:18, 20,25? Talk to God about this. Meditate on 11: 18-22. How can you act on 11:22?

Blog on!

Angel Tree

Angel Tree is a ministry that buys Christmas presents for children of whom at least one parent is in prison. We get to deliver the gifts and spend some time talking about the Gospel with the family/kids. We discussed participating in Angel Tree as a group on Tuesday, so here are more details to help us make a decision.

What we talked about last week was to sponsor more than one child. What do you think? (There are approximately 10 of us in group right now...) Feel free to comment on what you think we should do. We have to sign up soon.

The cost of Angel Tree Christmas is minimal, approximately $40 per child
reached. Each child is to receive a minimum of two gifts. When we send you the
children's names we will include a suggestion for one fun gift and an article of
clothing that the prisoner picked out using our gift guide. Each gift must be
new and valued at $15-20. We will provide you with a copy of the Angel Tree
Christmas Gift Guide, so you can get an idea of the types of gifts prisoners
will request (dolls, stuffed animals, sports equipment, etc.).

Guide questions: Romans 9&10

Good discussion on Tuesday night, ladies! Here the questions for the next two chapters. Looking forward to next week.

1. Do you feel about anyone the way that Paul feels about the Jews in Romans 9:1-3, if so, what can you do? What does Paul do? How could you acquire and show an attitude toward others' salvation like the attitude Paul describes in Romans 9:1-3?

2. Why is it important to keep God's will and man's responsibility in balance? This week, ask God to reveal how you can participate in bringing His will to pass.

3. Are you ever tempted to regard God as unfair or arbitrary in His dealings with people? Meditate on his sovereignty and mercy in Romans 9:6-29 and Ephesians 1:1-14. How does this chapter in Romans affect your view of God?

4. How is Christ brought up and down in Romans 10:6-7? What does it mean to do this? Why is it unnecessary?

5. Are envy and anger evangelist techniques? (Romans 10:19)?

Stay well! Blog well! :)

Pastor Mark's book, quoted this, I thought I would share. BTW-- the book is AWESOME!

How shall I pray?
Are tears prayers, Lord?
Are screams prayers?
or groans
or sigh,
or curses?

Can trembling hands be lifted to you,
or clenched fists
or the cold sweat that trickles down my back
or the cramps that knot my stomach?

Will you accept my prayers, Lord,
my real prayers,
rooted in the muck and mud and rock of my life,
and not just the pretty, cut-flower, gracefully arranged
bouquet of words?
Will you accept me, Lord?
as I really am,
messed up mixture of glory and grime?


- Guerillas of Grace by Ted Loder

Guide question: Romans 8

Ladies, thank you for being so real and open on Tuesday (and for letting me be, too)..

Here are the guide questions for next week!

1. In Romans 8:5-8, Paul contrasts the way of life "according to the spirit" with the way of life "according to the flesh". List as many contrasts as you can find.

2. What difference should our hope of ultimate resurrection, both physical and spiritual (Romans 8:11) make to our lives now? Why do you think God saved us "in this hope" rather than giving us our full inheritance of resurrection glory immediately? (Romans 8:24-25) Consider what waiting in hope accomplishes in us.

3. Give a brief definition in your own words of what it means that God foreknew you, predestined you, called you, justified you, has glorified and is glorifying you. (Romans 8:29-30) See John 10:14-15, 1 Cor 8:3, Galatians 4:9, 2 Timothy 2:19 and 1 Peter 1:20. Meditate and pray about what God has predestined you to be. Ask Him to give you a fervent desire for this to happen and a peaceful faith that He can accomplish it. Ask Him to show you how you can cooperate with this purpose.

4. Are you aware of the Spirit doing in you what Romans 8:26-27 describes? How is this promise a comfort to you?

Blog on!

Testing...

The last two weeks, we've talked about testing and spent some time thinking about how and why God seems to test us. We talked about how we are supposed to allow our painful times to bring perseverance in the midst of suffering and discussed how hard those concepts are. Our two character studies were Abraham (call to sacrifice Isaac) and then Adam (temptation to eat from the forbidden tree).

So, I've been thinking about being tested quite a lot lately. I hit on something in John Ortberg's The Life You've Always Wanted which has helped me be convinced of what we discussed in group.

Ortberg writes:

"A test is a difficult experience through which a person's true values, commitments, and beliefs are revealed. Test became a very important word in the Old Testament, and the way it is used there reveals something about how endurance develops.
1. It is used only in reference to people of God, never to heathen nations
2. It is applied only to people of faith, never to the ungodly.

Testing is reserved for those in a convenant relationship with God. Even though it is painful, testing in an act of love. Suffering serves to test our faith...

He continues...

"Surely we will experience suffering of one sort or another. Yet the question remains: How will we run the race? Will we finish well? Will we keep the faith? We do not accomplish this from sheer strength of will. The reason we can trust God is that he understands what it is to walk in darkness. One message of the Cross is that God chooses not to stand apart from our suffering. He is not unmoved by the pain of the creatures he loves. He embraces that pain and suffers with us."

I don't know about you, but this encourages me! I guess I don't know who this is going out to besides myself right now, but stay strong! God is near!

Thoughts

I was really encouraged and challenged by our discussion on Tuesday night. It's so interesting to hear the different perspectives each person has on Paul's writing. I found my brain hurting throughout the discussion! There's just so much to take in! Romans alone touches on so many different topics and areas of our lives as Christians. There's this never ending ability to learn more... we will never know all the answers and most of us agreed we don't want to.

I'm so thankful that we serve a God who is the alpha & omega, all powerful, all knowing, all loving, and yes, thankfully, all patient.

Even if we (I) never figure out Romans completely, I think God is smiling on our efforts and enjoying our discussions this semester. =)

Guide Questions for Romans 6:15 - 7:27

1. What evidence can you offer to support or refute Paul's claim in Romans 6:21 that sin has no benefits which outweigh its costs? (see Ecclesiastes 5:10, 15-17; 11:9-12:8)

2. Have you experienced Romans 7:7-11 since becoming a Christian? The Message translation:

... 'The law code had a perfectly legitimate function. Without its clear guidelines for right and wrong, moral behavior would be mostly guesswork. Apart from the succinct, surgical command, "You shall not covet," I could have dressed covetousness up to look like a virtue and ruined my life with it. Don't you remember how it was? I do, perfectly well. The law code started out as an excellent piece of work. What happened, though, was that sin found a way to pervert the command into a temptation, making a piece of "forbidden fruit" out of it. The law code, instead of being used to guide me, was used to seduce me'..

How do we guard against this?

3. What hope does Paul have of deliverance from his struggle against sins in this life? (Romans 7: 24-25) Thank God for providing the way of escape in your struggle against sin.

Looking forward to hearing from you all on the blog and in group. Stay blessed!

Encouraging words from Dad

Hey everybody!

Dad just sent me an email with wonderful encouragement about Romans. I wanted to pass it on to all of you.

"Your work in Romans will shape your perceptions of 'what being grounded in the Word' means to you, every day. Every pavement day."

Here's to hard work seeking after Him! May it filter into our lives - every mundane and every spectacular day.

Guide Questions: Romans 5 - 6:1-14

Really good discussion on Tuesday! We missed a bunch of you that were not there! Hope to see everyone next week! Here are the discussion questions for next Tuesday:

1. Does suffering always produce endurance? Why or why not? How does faith enable a person to let her suffering produce endurance and hope rather than bitterness and despair? How is this fact relevant to you?

2. What hinders you from letting hope fill you with joy in midst of your circumstances? or what keeps you from taking full advantage of your access to God? Pray about this

3 How does Romans 5:1-11 show the Trinity working in harmony? What does each Person do?

4. How can you actively reject the reign of sin in your life this week? How can you offer the parts of your body to righteousness?

5. What two things did Adam introduce into the world and pass on to his descendants? (Romans 5:12) Contrast Adam's trespass and God's gift (Jesus) (Romans 5: 15-19)

Questions about Question #3

Here is what A Commentary on Romans by Charles Hodge says about Romans, Chapter 4:

"The third argument (that Paul makes in this chapter) is designed to show that circumcision is not a necessary condition of justification, from the fact that Abraham was justified before he was circumsied, and therefore is the head and father of all believers, whether circumcised or not (vs. 9-12)."

I know that circumcision was an outward symbol, but wasn't that symbol deemed unnecissary because God's grace was there for everyone? Isn't that what the argument is saying?

If that's so, why do we need outward seals of a Christian's righteousness by faith? Why do we need an outward ratification and guarantee?

I understand that "having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit" (Ephesians 1:13), but that seems as though it is something that comes upon you when you believe, rather than an act that is done as a ratification and guarantee.

Am I misunderstanding? Anyone have any thoughts? What do you think?

Discussion questions for Romans 4

Here are the questions for next Tuesday. Feel free to post any response or questions to these questions.

No one may boast of his favor with God, for both Jews and Gentiles are declared righteous not because of obedience to God's law but because of faith in Jesus' death. (Romans 3:27). This was a hard idea for Jews to grasp. What about Abraham, the father of the nation, whom the Jews considered the most obedient man there ever was? Surely he had reason to boast of God's approval! Paul knew if he could prove that Abraham had no reason to boast, then the matter was settled for any Jew.


1. How was Abraham able to resist temptation to doubt God's promise? (4:20) What lesson does it offer us?

2. Does Roman 4:17 motivate you to trust God to do anything specific in your life? If so, what are you trusting Him to do?

3. Circumcision was a sign (pointer) and seal (outward ratification and guarantee) of the righteousness Abraham had by faith (Romans 4:11) What are the signs and seals of Christians' righteousness by faith? (See John 13:35, Acts 2:41, 8:12, 10:47, Ephesians 1: 13-14, 4:30, I Peter 3: 21)

4. How do you plan to apply Abraham's example in your life?

so sorry

hi ladies-

i'm really sorry i won't make it to group this week. I'm still at work at 7:06- casting for movies is taking up my life- BUT i will be there next week-promise. I hope all things go well and I will see you soon.

xxoo!
-kat

As Much Help as I Can Get

Romans is making my brain hurt.

Which is not a bad thing. :)

I wanted to blog to sing the praises of www.biblegateway.com.
What an amazing resource! I've had a difficult time with this lesson and doing a search of Romans 3 in different translations has been a blessing.

Not that I still get it at all.
But, I feel I have more to work with seeing these texts side by side.

It's fascinating how technology has even influenced the study (and discussion) of the Bible! Can you imagine what great theologians could have done with this stuff hundreds of years ago? Or even 50 years ago?

Do you think C.S.Lewis would have been a blogger?! :)

Guide Questions for Romans 3

Here are the study questions for next week! Feel free to blog responses to these questions.

1. How does our unrighteousness bring out God's righteousness more clearly?
(Romans 3:5) Do you feel more lovable and closer to God when you've been doing good things than when you've done wrong? Ask God to help you to put your trust more actively in Jesus' death than in your own performance.

2. How do we find the perfect balance between the law and faith?

3. What excuses do you/the world use to justify sin? Do you agree with Paul's reaction? (Romans 3:7-8)

4. What does "fall short of the glory of God" mean to you? (Romans 3:23)

5. What implication does Romans 3 have for your life?

See you on Tuesday!

Thanks guys!

Hey everyone! It was great to meet everyone last night. I'm just posting this to see if I can technologically savvy enough to make this work. In any case, I look forward to seeing you all again next Tuesday!

Rome or DC, NYC, LA?

While reading about Paul describing the citizens of Rome, I couldn't help but see parallels in the culture I experience on a daily basis here in DC and hear about in cities across the world. It is always amazing to me how relevant these letters are even to us today. I read the first two chapters imagining Paul was writing to us here in DC and the words seemed to jump off the page into my life! Some of it isn't pretty to read through but so necessary. Looking forward to Tuesday's discussion!

Uhhh...Anyone else confused already also?!

So, I've dabbled in Romans before, apparently. I have many things underlined from past readings of various sections, so you would THINK I have some idea of what is going on. Uhmmmm...I was SO just kidding. Just got finished reading the first two chapters and my head is spinning. Wowzah!

All I can say is that I am SO happy that we are all reading this together. Here's to a season of new challenges! (And lots of questions.) :)

Guide questions Romans 1:18-2:29

Here are some suggested questions to help guide you as you read through Romans 1 and 2. Feel free to explore other topics and ideas as the Holy Spirit leads.

1. What does failing to honor and thank God lead to and why? (Rom. 21) Have you ever experienced this in your own life?

2. Can you think of how futile thinking can lead to unwise decisions/actions? Pray that God would reveal any futile thoughts in your life. Journal anything He speaks to you. See Rom. 12:2

3. What does it mean that God gave them over to depravity? (Rom. 1:24)

4. Name some ways in which the created world reveals God's eternal power and divinity. (Rom. 1:18-20) Spend some time journalling outdoors.

5. Have you judged anyone for sin in the past week? If so, why? How can we develop a non judgemental attitude? (Rom. 2)

6. In what ways do you seek praise from men and in what ways from God (Rom. 2:29). How would seeking praise from God alone affect your actions?

Feel free to post questions or comments here or email us if you need further clarification!

Special bulletin!

It was wonderful to meet you all last night. We are sooo excited about the new semester!

Important details:

- We are switching meeting nights to TUESDAYS! We'll still meet at Daphne's, 7pm. Give Lisa or Lanre a call if you need directions

- Bible study resources:
1. Bible gateway: Tons of bible translations, concordance, commentaries and dictionaries
2. Bible dictionaries: Three different bible dictionaries and concordances
3. Crosswalk: Bible translations, commentaries, concordance and dictionaries

- Join hospitality at Ebenezers! The team needs more people as we move to 2 services on Saturday. Its a great way to serve at the church, meet and welcome new people. Come hand out bulletins and help with setup or break-down at the 5:05pm or 7:07pm services! Lanre and Lisa will be there! :) Email us for details.

- Start praying for your target! This is the person you will be interceeding for this semester. We'll have opportunities to share updates throughout the semester.

- Feel free to blog! This is your space too. We want to read what you're thinking, feeling, etc.

Semester begins !!!!

The semester officially starts this week!!! Welcome/welcome back everyone! See you tomorrow at 7pm!

Hang on! Here we go again!

Ladies, are you ready?!

Oh my goodness! I can hardly sit still in my seat today! I am sooo psyched for group to start up again! As many of you have said, the month of August has just felt off-kilter for me too, not meeting for so long has got me shook! :)

We've got some new faces coming in and some old people leaving us, but I believe that God has something new and exciting for us this semester! I seriously can't wait!

Anyone out there feel me?!

Living, Breathing, Aching for the Mission

Carmel shared this about her recent trip with the Baton Rouge mission team:

"There are really no words to decribe the mixed emotions I had on this trip. I tell you what though, the people I met down there are so strong and resilient. I am truly blessed and, unfortunately, it is times of crisis and disaster that have to remind us just how blessed we are. The NCC team (5 of us) helped another team to gut a woman's home, which consisted of tearing down walls, ceillings and taking out anything that was destroyed during the storm/flood. The house had not been touched since last August, so just imagine how much there was to do. We were there for two days and we still did not complete the job, but the other part of the team returned the next day. We also did volunteer projects with a church called The Healing Place in Baton Rouge. All in all, I learned a lot about what it takes to build an entire city and how people feel called to help others. I am so glad that God answered my prayers and took me down there to see the destruction and create hope for a home owner that wanted her life back...The trip changed my life forever and I didn't even have to buy a $1,000 air ticket or get a stamp in my passport for it. The affect of this on me and the rest of that region has yet to be realized."

I have been thinking a lot about God's renown. Basically, that is what living on mission is about right? Making God's love and sacrifice and salvation 'an indelible memory' giving him 'fame that never fades'. (Louie Giglio).

Christy Nockels of Watermark put it this way:

...We can't just wash our hands of this and walk away
And blame the ones before us cus its easier to say
Than to listen to his heart beating for the coming age...

...We are a doorway and window to the truth
We have one passage of time
What will we say then?
How will we live?
This burning passion is a gift...

Pardon our dust!

We are slowly starting the transition from "Summer reflections" to "The Vine Inspirations" for the Fall. This is still an available space for all past, current, and future small group members. Feel free to continue posting insights, reflections, revelations... stay tuned for some fun changes to our blog space!

End of semester party!

We're sorry if you missed last night's party; we had a lot of fun. Fruit punch in fun glasses with umbrellas; luau/tiki decorations; fabulous food; and of course, the shirts! Ladies, if you were not there last night, get in touch with Lisa or Lanre to purchase a shirt-- here's a sneak peek, they are pretty hot! (Thanks to Lisa and Kaarin for spearheading that project)














Its been a great summer and I've learned so much. I can't wait until September. Begin reading Romans in the meantime and keep your eye out for emails in August about our social gatherings! Bring on Fall semester!

Your mission, should you choose to accept...

Task: This month, while we do the Missions Series at NCC, a special missions prayer blog has been set up. The blog has scripture and a challenge for the day; reactions to what God is doing in NCCers through the missions series and trips; and opportunities to pray for missions. The aim is to have all of us log onto the website: nccmissions.net at least once every day for the 28 days of this series.

Personal relevance: Our own Sarah H. just returned from a trip to the Dominican Republic-- the website has testimonials and stories from the DR team. Carmel is off to New Orleans this Sunday with a mission team and the website has a list of their prayer requests. In a few days, Michelle, from our group last year, will be joining the rest of the Galapagos team on their mission trip. You and I, without even leaving our neighborhoods or workplaces, are in the very center of a mission field.

I look forward to reading your comments!

Thank Him

I just wanted to share this because it ministered to me this morning. My good friend who I mentioned prayer for on Monday emailed this to me. He is feeling very lost right now and confused about life. He is not a Christian but believes in God and comes from a Catholic background. He told me he reads this every night before he goes to bed and wanted to share it with me. I think it's so cool that just as I hope to minister to him, he in return has ministered to me.

Dear GOD:
I want to thank You for what you have already done. I am not going to wait until I see results or receive rewards; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until I feel better or things look better; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until people say they are sorry or until they stop talking about me; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until the pain in my body disappears ; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until my financial situation improves; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until the children areasleep and the house is quiet; I thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until I get promoted at work or until I get the job; I thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until I understand every experience in my life that has caused me pain or grief; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until the journey gets easier or the challenges are removed; I am thanking you right now.
I am thanking you because I am alive. I am thanking you because I made it through the day's difficulties. I am thanking you because I have walked around the obstacles. I am thanking you because I have the ability and the opportunity to do more and do better.

I'm thanking you because FATHER, YOU haven't given up on me.

It's a tag-team sport!

com·mis·sion n. The act of granting certain powers or the authority to carry out a particular task or duty. To put into active service.

All authority in heaven and in earth has been given to Jesus and yet our Father, in his infinite wisdom, chooses to touch us, ignite us and send us.

It was a great way to wrap up our semester last night. We talked about how we often underestimate the power of our lives. We are invaluable pieces of a network and web of lives that we have the power to influence, challenge and change. We spent some time discussing Dick Foth's message this past weekend about how we can use the power of the Holy Spirit and forgiveness to open people up to the message of Christ.

I was really touched by our discussion about how we can make our mark on the world simply by the way that we invest in the people around us. I was really encouraged by our conversation yesterday! I can't wait for our party on Monday! Come ready for a full-blown summer bash!

Feel free to continue to post any revelations and thoughts here.

The Power of the Mind

Through the past series of sermons and our summer discussions in group, the idea of renewing my mind in Christ Jesus and the implications it has on my ability to be a woman of faith has taken on a greater understanding for me. Not that it was a foreign concept previously, but it's a concept that I am choosing to no longer ignore. The devotional my running group is going through is titled "The Battlefield of the Mind". This is exactly where my battle begins. Everything I do and have accomplished in my life has been a mental decision or frame of mind that I have placed myself in in order to succeed. It should be the same with my faith. In past years my Christian faith was stagnant. I wasn't thinking about what I was doing nor was I practicing spiritual disciplines.

In this week's sermon, Dick Foth referenced that we are in a race! It just hit home with me. Back in my "glory days" (yes I'm so old!) of swimming I was as mentally tough as they came. I was known as a "racer" on my team. Put me in the pressure spot and I would perform. Even though I loved to race I hated practicing! It was so boring to me but without the hours put in and the physical and mental preparation, I would have never been successful. With my faith I feel like it's the same thing. Without the mental preparation of spending time with God, reading His word, praying and knowing His heart, learning from other Christians, I'm not ready for this race!

I want my faith to be in shape and ready to perform when an opportunity arises. I want my mind to be constantly renewed so that I'm moving forward. After all, I've never heard of winning a race by standing still.

Seize the opportunities

This week, our focus is on sharing our faith. Read over Matthew 28: 16-20-- the Great Commission and journal/blog about how we can be a part of that calling to reach the ends of the earth with God's message of hope and love. How do we become missionaries in our daily lives? How do we share our faith with those around us? How do we seize the opportunities that come our way daily, to win others to Christ?

This Saturday begins the missions series at NCC, so I am excited to hear your thoughts/ideas on Monday! Monday will be our last discussion session-- we will spend the following week in fellowship, prayer and worship as we close out the summer semester!

Blog on!

We believe

A powerful night of proclamations and prayer. Here are some of our truths:

We believe:
- God reveals himself to us in new ways all the time;
- God is strategically placing us in the right place at the right time;
- God is able to do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us;
- God asks us to step out in faith and will pursue us until we do;
- God is in the business of healing-- pray in expectation and He will answer;
- God's Word is a living document;
- God will make a way;
- God is faithful;
- In Christ alone, will peace find us;
- God has the right to demand every part of our lives;
- True freedom is the freedom to do what God wants us to do!

I challenge us all to claim and proclaim these truths and promises over our lives and our circumstances. Where we are desiring for God to show Himself true in our lives but our faith is lacking, pray that He might also help our unbelief!

Carmel's Birthday

Queen of the Night


Happy Birthday "Caramel"!!

Bringing Him Glory

How awesome was yesterday!? To be a witness of the baptisms yesterday and see the joy and excitement that everyone expressed was simply amazing. It was such a blessing for me even to just be a supporter and encourager. I was looking heavenward during the event yesterday and just thinking how much joy this must bring Him. I imagined Him smiling down saying "These are my Christian soldiers who are renewing their minds and spirits to carry out my works." We are in the business of glorifying God and I can only imagine what joy that brought Him. Congratulations Carmel and Kristen in taking this step. I love you both and I was so glad to share in your joy!!
I believe that there is no greater joy than bringing glory to one who created and breathed life into us!

Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ

Romans 6:4-5
"We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection."

Today I am getting baptized. I can't express how excited I am. I have butterflies in my stomach. It's those good butterflies that signal the expectation of something good to come. I'm just in awe of where God has brought me in life so far. His guiding hand is so apparent in the path that has brought me to this moment. I just wanted to share my joy with all of you. And the best part is that it's all for Him. I feel it's this awesome opportunity to not only identify myself with something Jesus did but to show Him how much I love Him and that the desire of my heart is to no longer be a closet Christian.

Romans 6:6
"For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin- because anyone who has died has been freed from sin." (Whoo hoo!)

I believe that God asks us to step out in faith for His glory...sometimes we may free fall for a bit, but like a sky diver knows the ground will be there, so too we can rest assured that our God will be there. It just takes that first step...

Summer reflections

Summer reflections

Learning to Believe

"The Lord will guide you always...and will strengthen your frame." - Isaiah 58:11

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagels; they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:29-31

I am learning to believe these verses and claim them as God's promises for my life.

This weekend!!

Here we go! Another busy weekend!

Check out our activities this weekend:

1. Friday Concert-
The Violet Burning will be in concert with special guest Steph Modder.
Suggested donation $10

2. Saturday Dinner at Mimi's
Join us in celebrating Carmel's birthday.
When: Saturday July 15 @ 7:00 p.m.
Where: Mimi's American Bistro
Between 21st & 22nd on P Street left hand side
P is street on dupont circle where the CVS is. Follow down two blocks
It's guaranteed to be a great time! RSVP to Kristen

3. Baptism by the bay on Sunday
Come and celebrate as Kristen and Carmel will be baptized this weekend.
NCC annual picnic and baptism at Sandy Point State Park located off of MD Route 50 (exit 32).
Admission is $6. Games and sports at 3pm, picnic at 5pm, and the baptism around 6pm.
Please bring a side dish or dessert to share. Home-made goodies preferred!

Who knows NCC has these amazing talents..

NCC Men in tights











Who knows Elvis and Blue Man know each other? =)

I believe God has a plan for me, and His plan is perfect.

Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord,” plans to prosper you and not to harm you and plans to give you hope and a future.

Isaiah 55:8-9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts
Neither are your ways my ways” declares the Lord
As the heavens are higher than the earth
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And my thoughts than your thoughts


Several months ago, God asked me to surrender and lay down my dream. He asked me to trust and obey Him. Now, the cool part, through a series of situations, God resurrects part of my dream in an amazing way. Beyond my imagination. He showed me that His ways are higher than my ways, His plans and His timing are perfect!!

Seeking obedience...

Last night's small group was amazing. I am really struggling with trying to figure out what being a living sacrifice is all about. Not conforming to the pattern of the world while still trying to be in the world is so overwhelming at times. I am so convicted when I read and meditate on Romans 12 because I see it as our personal responsibility as Christians to renew our minds in order to think more like Him and thus figure out His will for our lives.
This seems sooo big and daunting to take on in a way. But, one thing that I am certain of and that I BELIEVE is that if we seek His will for lives with an honest and open heart than He will not be disappointed in us. If, in the end we are simply seeking to be obedient to Him, He will love us no matter what. I really need to remind myself of that, especially as I am feeling a bit paralyzed in a decision that I have to make. God is good and His love is "bigger than any decision that we think we might screw up!" (quoted from a wise friend)

I stand by what I believe

This week, our assignment is to come up with some "I believe..." statements. As we think about how to share our faith, how to communicate what we hold dear to us-- what is it really that we believe? What is truth? What holds value? What is the constant in our lives?

Our challenge this week is to find bible verses that speak about belief, faith, power of words or that reflect the particular beliefs that we hold.

I believe our discussion on Monday is going to be powerful! Feel free to follow Kristen's lead and let us all know what you believe.

Mercy Me

Romans 12:1 "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship."

During our discussion last night of Romans 12 I was able to learn a lot from the way in which the verses spoke to each of us uniquely. I went home especially struck by our discussion of God's mercy in our lives. To offer all I am to God as a living sacrifice seems a daunting task on the surface, but when I put it in the perspective of what Jesus has done for me it becomes the only sensible option. God knows my heart and desires for me to strive to make pleasing and holy decisions in all I do, but He also knows I am in need of his mercy time and time again. God gives me the opportunity to stand in front of him as myself, a picture of imperfect beauty, and hand him a perfect sacrifice through His Son with my name on it.

I believe in Jesus's sacrifice.

A New Definition of Success?

"There is a vitality, alife-force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action. And because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique.

And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and be lost.

It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expression.

It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open...Whether you choose to take an art class, keep a journal, record your dreams, dance your story, or live each day from your own creative source, above all else, keep the channel open!" - Martha Graham

I have been thinking about the differences between worldy and spiritual success.

Here is the dictionary's definition of success:

suc·cess ( P ) Pronunciation Key (sk-ss)n.

1. The achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted

2. The gaining of fame or prosperity. The extent of such gain.

Here is, quite possibly, the Biblical definition of success:

suc·cess ( P ) Pronunciation Key (sk-ss)

Romans 12:6-8 (NIV) - We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

Is spiritual success putting in practice our Godly given talents? Is it just doing what He calls us to do?

One reason I love the above Martha Graham quote above is the part that states that "it is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions." I see this same sentiment in Romans 12, for it is not about reaching a measure of worthiness. It isn't about comparing your gifts to see if they are paramount. It is just about action.

Graham also talks about "keeping the channel open." Personally, I see this channel as my relationship with God. It is about keeping the lines of communication open, learning about Him, and cultivating a passion, a thirst to know Him better. It is through this connection that we will learn what we are called to do, as well as have continued strength and courage to keep on the course.

All for His glory.

And using our personal talents to glorify Him sounds pretty successful to me.

What happens in variety show stays at variety show

Don't forget that variety show is this Sunday at 6 pm at Club Nation.
1015 Half Street, S.E. (one block from Navy Yard Metro Station (green line))


Hint: I heard Elvis will be performing =)

Additional resources on Visions

We pulled additional resources from Chazown.com for further reflection on our core values, spiritual gifts, and our past experiences. Here is the link:

Chazown Journal and Study Guide

Life Development Plan

In addition, we also discussed the parable of the ten talents in Matthew 25:13-28. Here we are reminded that God desires us to be good stewards of our talents. We talked about reasons why we are hesitant to use/develop God given talents, such as inconvenience, fear of looking foolish, concern for people’s opinion, and not willing to be uncomfortable. We reminded ourselves that we should not be conformed to our world and our culture. Finally, we talked about Psalm 24, where we need to be intentional when we use our God-given talents. We need to use our skills with the right motivation, for the glory of God. How interesting that Pastor Mark recently blog about similar topic, "But I honestly think that humility is what sets the stage for everything God wants to do in our lives. Our job is managing our motives. If our motives are wrong then nothing we do is right. If our motives are right then everything else takes care of itself” AMEN!!

Happy 4th of July!

Thanks again to Kristen and Kaarin for having us over!

Romans 12

So for this next week we are going to focus on Romans chapter 12. We were struck by Pastor Mark's last message about not being conformed to the world... so we are going to do some thinking on that...

check out Romans 12 and journal/blog on!

See you on Monday!

More on vision...

Pastor Mark often talks about the importance of examining our passion and gifts as the key to discover God's vision for our lives. God’s vision usually lies where our passion and our talent intersect. In another word, if people close their ears and run for their lives when I sing, then becoming a singer is probably not God’s vision for me. =) In Chazown, Craig Groeschel wrote about another approach called the three circles to help us seek and find God's visions for our lives. Here’s what he said in the book:

1. Examine your core values.
Craig defines core values as the values that God hardwired into our heart. These are the values that would become the driving forces of our lives, the ones that explain our personalities. Craig also wrote about the anger-bliss factor (similar to Kaarin'’s pound the table test): What stirs righteous anger inside of us? In case of Jesus, what made him angry was the fact His temple was turned from a place of worship into a marketplace. Jesus' core value is the sanctity of worship. Other examples of core values are integrity, authenticity, thrive for excellence, and kindness. Similarly the bliss factor is the things that bring happiness and fulfillment. If I love helping people, then serving may be my core value. What do you know is so important that you will let go everything else in order to grasp it?

2. Spiritual gifts.
We all know that we are gifted by God. In what area are we good at? Moses’ gift was leadership. Nehemiah’s gift was administration. Every gifts and talents have come directly from God for a purpose and He wants to use them to benefit the body of Christ. What are the gifts that God has given you? What are you passionate for? What do you do that seems to have significant impact on others? If you are interested in discovering your spiritual gifts, NCC has an excellent tool for that.

Gift and Passion Assessment

3. Past experiences.
These are events or seasons in our live that God has given to prepare us to fulfill His future vision. Pastor Mark talked about how Moses’ past experiences (he spent 40 years in the Egyptian palace, and another 40 years in the dessert) uniquely qualifies him as the person to lead the Israelite out of Egypt. David's experience as the shepherd prepares him for his battle with Goliath. Think about both positive and negative experiences that have shaped how you think, feel and act. What do your good and bad experiences have in common? What do you think your experiences have done to prepare for the future?

So, finally the last step would be bringing all these three circles together and find the place where they converge. That's where we'd find our chazown. Now, it's time for me to apply these and find my chazown! =)

Lord, I am thankful!

Dear GOD:

I want to thank you for what you have already done. I am not going to wait until I see results or receive rewards; I am thanking you right now.

I am not going to wait until I feel better or things look better; I am thanking you right now.

I am not going to wait until people say they are sorry or until they stop talking about me; I am thanking you right now.

I am not going to wait until the pain in my body disappears; I am thanking you right now.

I am not going to wait until my financial situation improves; I am going to thank you right now.

I am not going to wait until I get promoted at work or until I get the job; I am going to thank you right now.

I am not going to wait until I understand every experience in my life that has caused me pain or grief; I am thanking you right now.

I am not going to wait until the journey gets easier or the challenges are removed;
I am thanking you right now.

I am thanking you because I am alive.
I am thanking you because I made it through the day's difficulties.
I am thanking you because I have walked around the obstacles.
I am thanking you because I have the ability and the opportunity to do more and do better.

I'm thanking you because FATHER, YOU haven't given up on me.

Still stuck on vision!

We decided to stick to the theme of vision and using our God-given abilities to bring his plans for our lives to pass. This week, we are going to base our journaling on Matthew 25:14-30-- but more than that, we are going to take Pastor Mark's advice and put that Scripture into practice. Our assignment is to start working on one of our goals-- use/invest our talents. We are also going to look at Psalm 24 to provide some fuel for us to remember that our visions and our goals are all for the glory of the King.

What an ambitious mission for this week! I can't wait for next Monday!

Nehemiah recap

It was good to see so many of you ladies (old and new) last night! Happy Birthday again Sarah H.!

We discussed Nehemiah chapters 1 and 2 last night and talked about our vision and goals for the next 6 months. Specifically, we pointed out the example of Nehemiah's prayer in chapter 1 and the strength of his personal relationship with God to carry him through the completion of his vision. We talked about using Nehemiah has an example of how to deal with opposition to our visions. Generally, we are all pretty struck by how charismatic and infectious Nehemiah was with his vision and the passion with which he stirred other on to help him accomplish his goal.

Anything else about Nehemiah I forgot or that you just want to share?

There were also some really cool goals for the next 6 months that we shared. We talked about how we sometimes need to be content not to plan in one area as we work towards goals in other areas of our lives. The group had a variety of goals-- God-size plans that are going to stretch and challenge us. A really cool idea for intellectual goals came from Carmel-- she chose 6 different topics of interest that she is going to research and report back to the group on!

Dream on, plan on!

The Pound The Table Test

Dennis Rainey, National Director of Family Ministry, Campus Crusade for Christ said:

"Do you believe that God can give you a vision for your world that will capture you for the rest of your life? What are you uniquely burdened for? What injustice causes you to pound the table and weep?

I am a believer in the pound the table test - if something gets under your skin, makes you want to scream with either joy or frustration, makes you stay up at night because it is sweating out of your pours, I think it may be a clue to the beginning of a God given vision.

In Marlene Bagnull's book Write His Answer: A Bible Study for Christian Writers she talks about having a vision, but warns that you must question if you are being driven or led. The big question is - who is driving the train in your life and with your goals - you or Christ?

A driven person is someone who wants self satisfaction and recognition. The person who is led by Christ will do everything he or she can to serve Him and make sure that He is the one being glorified.

The thing that I love about Nehemiah is that he was just an ordinary guy that had a God-given vision planted in his soul. And because "the gracious hand of God" was with him (Neh 2:8) it gave him a fire in his belly. When the king asked him "what is it you want?" Nehemiah didn't back down, he didn't apologize for the thing that was weighing on his heart - he just told the king exactly what he wanted (after he prayed!). THEN he asked that the king give him things in order to accomplish his task. My friends, Nehemiah was a Biblical Bad A$$.

If God plants a vision within us and we do not pursue it, is it a form of disobedience? Do we become a watered-down version of the person we could become if we just put aside our insecurities and trusted Him? Nehemiah admits that he was "very much afraid" (Neh 2:2), but the thing that makes him different from others is that he did it anyway.

I pray to have courage like Nehemiah, and to continually ask "am I being driven or led?" with my vision.

Be present in the present!

We have a new challenge for this week! We are going to focus on Nehemiah chapters 1 and 2 and think about pursuing goals and God-given visions. Our task for the week is to come up with some short-term goals/visions for the next 6 months of our lives. We have chosen to focus on the present, on tangible goals and visions and have committed to be accountability partners for each other. We will focus on 7 categories of goals to set for ourselves:

1. relational-- to nurtue, initiate, reconnect or sever a relationship
2. physical-- to cut something out or to increase something
3. intellectual-- to expand our minds
4. spiritual-- to learn a discipline, study something from the Word
5. financial-- to invest, save, give, stewardship
6. vocational-- both our paid and non-paid interests/jobs
7. personal-- anything else that you just want to do

Here are some thoughts to help spark the vision-thinking from Heather Z:

1. God's Vision is Bigger Than My Vision
God wants us to dream dreams that are big enough for him to work in. Once your God-given vision gets to the point where it is overwhelming, ask God to stretch you a little more. God can accomplish more in us and in others than we can possibly imagine.

2. Visions Take Time
Every vision has a waiting room where God prepares us for the work he wants to do. Waiting on a vision is typically a time of preparation. Don't try to speed through it. Anchor down and ask God to help you become the person he wants you to be.

3. Visions Die Before They Live
Visions die. Why? I think it's because God wants to test our hearts. He wants to make sure our focus is directed towards him first and foremost. What do we love most-- God or our vision? What takes priority- time with God or time on the vision? What will be sacrifice-- God's presence or the vision? Don't get discouraged if and when your vision dies. Hold onto God. He is in the business of reversing the irreversible.

4. Visions Need Image Stabilization
Canon’s website says, “Shaking occurs naturally when you hold binoculars for an extended period of time. Wind, muscle fatigue, and even excitement can contribute to 'binocular shake.' The more powerful the binoculars, the more pronounced the shake appears. It’s tiring on your eyes, it’s distracting, and it makes getting a good, sharp focus simply impossible.

We need image stabilization for good vision. Over time, we get tired. Or we are blown about by the environment we are in. Or sometimes we just get so excited about the vision that we forget about God! God gives us SAP image stabilization technology for our vision- Scripture, Accountability and Prayer. Root yourself in the Word of God, immerse yourself in a group of people who love you but love God more, and pray like it depends on God.

5. Visions Come to Those Who Follow Well
Jesus said, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." As leaders, our first job is to follow. Christ first. Spiritual leaders second. If you are faithful to follow well the vision of another, God will assemble your own team for the vision he has given to you when the time is right.

6. Visions Make Us Lonely People
It doesn't matter how many people buy into your vision or how many people are on your team. You will always go through periods of loneliness in your vision. Why? Because a God-given vision will orient you against the mainstream. You will have to run against the status quo.

No one is ever going to be as excited about the vision as you are. That makes sense and it's okay. Just know that going into it. Leadership in general can be lonely. Pursuing a God-given vision is sometimes the loneliest task in the world.

7. Doors of Opportunity Lead to Vision
I have found that pursuing vision has more to do with stepping through doors of opportunity than it does with setting goals. Ask God to open your eyes to the doors that are around you and to give you wisdom as you make life decisions.

8. The Sustaining Force of Vision: Christ Alone
I have found that there is only one motivation that will sustain us: an intense love for Christ and a desire to see God praised by all people. But honestly, there are days when those things just don't cut it and will never sustain me for the long haul. On those days, I have to say, "God, I am doing this out of love for you. And that's it."

Pursue your vision. But above all else, pursue God.

Psalm 139 recap

I won't even pretend to do justice to the discussion we had tonight, but here is some of what I remember... Feel free to post any additional thoughts on our week of focusing on our bodies and tapping into our God-images.

Tonight, we discussed verse 5b, where it says that God has put his hand on us and how that makes us feel so protected. We looked at some verses that describe God's right hand as both powerful (Exodus 15:6), with might to scatter the enemy, and as a source of pleasures and joy (Psalm 16:11). We talked about how there is so much freedom in knowing that though God knows all of our ways and sees all of our thoughts, he loves us unconditionally. We also discussed how we usually think of the works of the Creator in terms of nature and often forget to think about ourselves among the wonderful and beautiful things that He has made. Verse 14b, "Your works are wonderful, I know that full well" also made us admit that if we think about it, we do know that we are wonderful and that the King delights in our beauty (Psalm 45:11), we just have to keep repeating it to ourselves...

Summer reflections

I know this has nothing to do with our topic this week, but alas, I digress anyhow...

So last night I realized I missed journaling on gratitude day (Wednesday). I really didn't have a particular good day Thursday and in fact I felt like I had a mini breakdown of sorts. But I decided I would start writing about what I was grateful for that day anyways and within minutes I had a long list of things to be thankful for....the beautiful weather which allowed me to wear flip flops and sunglasses on my walk to work, living so close to work that when I do stupid things like forget my sneakers when I have an appnt. with my trainer I can still run home change and run back!, the ability to push my body hard in a work out, learning more about the people I work with and feeling really comfortable there now, getting an email from a hot boy that made me smile (okay so sometimes on the break down days it's the very little things that help!), catching up with an old high school friend on the phone... some of them may seem silly but after I was reading over my list of about 15 things... I thought to myself "Well, maybe I did have a good day after all."

Sometimes I think God must be banging his head against a wall when so much of life I miss because of my perspective. What a patient God we have. Thank God for His patience in teaching me lessons over and over again on how to see life as He does. The earthly perspective verse the heavenly perspective continues to be a struggle for me. But when I am faithful and God shows me a glimpse of what He sees, it's pretty awesome.

"I am so beautiful, sometimes people weep when they see me..."

I have this friend who thinks she is beautiful.
And the thing is, she is. She's gorgeous.
But, she says it out loud. She acknowledges her shiny hair, how well she fits into her new jeans, how her body is amazing.

At first I thought, "Who is this SNOB?"
But, I came to realize that the reason her comments sounded grating is that I had never heard a woman talk that way about her own body.

We are so accustomed to verbally abusing our bodies that any type of comfort in our own radiance is perceived as conceit.

What would happen if we started looking at our own forms the same way God perceived them?

Psalm 139:13 states:
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb...
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body. "

God as Creator. God as Artist.
If He took all of that time to create me and piece me together - how wonderful my body must be in His eyes! How deliberate His choices!

I wonder if God aches when we mess with His handiwork? When we speak words against His creation?

Margaret Cho once said "I am so beautiful, sometimes people weep when they see me. And it has nothing to do with what I look like really, it is just that I gave myself the power to say that I am beautiful. And if I could do that, maybe there is hope for them too."

My prayer for myself and other women is a gentleness and sense of awe about our bodies. May we begin to have an appreciation of our own internal and external power. May we understand that loving who we are is an incredibly subversive act.

Your body's a wonderland...

Our new theme this week, inspired by Kaarin and Pastor Mark, is: our amazing bodies. We are going to research and journal on thinking about our bodies more like Christ sees us and renewing our mind to think of our self-image in more Biblical (and healthy) terms.

The point passage for this week is Psalm 139.

I really liked what we talked about last night, on how we get so caught up in talking about and actually seeing ourselves in terms of what is not right or what we don't like instead of believing and claiming the way that we are "fearfully and wonderfully made", handicraft of an amazing Creator and a loving Father.

So, journal away! Feel free to post any major (or minor) insights/thought/or comments here. Bring anything you find that strikes a cord with you when you come next week! I can't wait!!

Indiscriminate thanksgiving!

I am so happy that today was our gratitude journaling day. My mind was spinning with so much that needed to be done for classes etc., I was grateful for the reminder that I could focus on finding things to be thankful about! I did a little reading on gratitude and thanksgiving and thought I would share:

"There are three reasons why indiscriminate thanksgiving powerfully works joy in us. First, it is an act of recovery. According to the Bible, the core and origin of the human predicament is ingratitude. To practice the discipline of gratitude is to shine light into the heart of our darkness... Second, the discipline of giving thanks in all situations is an act of hope. When we give thanks no matter what, we act on the premise that He who holds the last hour has assured us that everything will be glorious in the end... Third, this kind of hopeful gratitude is an act of joyful defiance. The troubles of this world may be more than we can handle in our own power but to give thanks is to triumph nevertheless! " - He Has Made Me Glad by Ben Patterson

I like that last part about defiance; I needed to feel like there is victory in praise today!

Am I on?

So am I writing on our blog now? I'm a genius!! Don't worry I won't abuse with silly anecdotes from my day. Just checking to see if it worked.

Is this thing on?

Testing, Testing!