This spoke to me so I thought I would share.....
What are the marks of a good friendship?
> It shapes your character and reputation—for the good.
> Proverbs 27:17-19
>
> "As iron sharpens iron" (27:17), a good friend will challenge what you think
and even who you are. As you test yourself against each other, you rub away
those qualities that are loose and weak. What's left is even stronger than when
you began. You sharpen each other in thought and in character.
>
> A second image this proverb supplies about friendship is the mirror. When you
look in your mirror, you expect to see your own face. As you look close into
your own eyes, you can almost read your thoughts. But how startling it'd be to
look in your mirror some sleepy morning and see instead the thoughts of your
friend. That's how influential friendship is! For good or for bad, we rub off on each
other.
>
> The best friendships are those where both persons are strong in their faith
and they encourage each other to grow stronger in it. This takes work, but when
you nurture friendships, you benefit from having someone to share with and
receive helpful correction from. The key to good friendships is mutuality—mutual
respect, mutual independence, mutual caring, and mutual submission.
>
> Choose friends who sharpen you in good ways, instead of cutting you to pieces.
And provide the same service for your friends. (See also Ruth 1-4; Proverbs
17:17; 18:24; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; James 5:13-20.)
>
> Good Words to Remember:
> As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend …. As
in water face reflects face, so a man's heart reveals the man. Proverbs 27:17,
19
>
> Today's Challenge:
> How do your friends "sharpen" you?
>
>
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Energy Leak?
How many energy leaks do we have in our own lives?
Leaks are such things as angry words, distractions or tampering with someone elses business while neglecting our own.
People must be aware that their energy is subject to depletion and they must make guarding that energy reserve a priority.
What daily energy leaks keep you from being focused?
How do you replenish your energy reserve? How often?
"Above all else, keep watch over your heart, for herein lies the wellspring of life." Proverbs 4:23
Leaks are such things as angry words, distractions or tampering with someone elses business while neglecting our own.
People must be aware that their energy is subject to depletion and they must make guarding that energy reserve a priority.
What daily energy leaks keep you from being focused?
How do you replenish your energy reserve? How often?
"Above all else, keep watch over your heart, for herein lies the wellspring of life." Proverbs 4:23
Sunday, September 21, 2008
ClassNEWS - September 2008
Hey guys! How are you? I loved being in Sunday School this week (at least for part of the time). I must tell you I miss you guys when I don't see you. Let me know how you are.
Thank so many of you for being at the business meeting on Sunday night. WOW! It was the fastest meeting ever! I am really excited that Josh and Jenn and Isabel will be heading to H'ville very soon! Please be praying for Josh as he will be giving his 2 week notice tomorrow at his job. Pray for his family too as they are preparing to move, Jenn is due to have baby #2 on November 30. WOW!
So, I LOVED Kidstuff today! It was all I had hoped for, it was funny, educational and fun! I noticed that the kids were totally into it....they loved it! Our class is playing a big role with this. Gabe is directing and guiding the entire production, plus starring in it, along with Rachel, Larry, Mandy and special guest performances by Ben Brown and Aaron Echols to date. Chris Socha is doing the input of all the technical aspects, which is a TON of stuff! I encourage you guys if you want a place to plug in, our children's area is a great place to do this. We have been amazed at the number of new children are coming to both Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. This is a great thing!
There are essential areas of service available....we could use additional greeters (on a rotating basis), people to help visiting children to their classes upstairs, ushers to help seat people and to pass out bulletins and welcome people. Also Lloyd Hartman is helping us out each week in setting up the Kidstuff set and others that help out. If you would like to help out in this way, email me at wendyswaby@bluegrasschurch.net
I love seeing Jennifer Beachboard, Julianna, Jeremy and Jana singing in worship. I also love seeing so many of you on Wednesday night being a part of the different classes. I love the behind the scene stuff that so many of you do, our class helps out in changing the sign out front, it makes up the communication team, it videos the services, does media, playing music in worship, serves on the vision team, as deacons, serves in extended session, teaches sunday school, does drama, serves in W.E.E., are chairman in training, serve on committees, serves on teams, ushers and so much more! God is doing a mighty work in each one of our lives. You may not see it, but I promise you, God is growing each of us, changing us, challenging us and making us more like his son Jesus! How cool is that?
I want to encourage each of you as you make a difference in eternity! It is not an accident that you are a part of this community for such a time as this. He has plans to give us hope and a future (Jer.29:11) We are changing our families, our lives and our the very path that we walk as we grow and allow God to change us. Be encouraged! If God is for us, who can be against us! All things are possible with God! Encourage one another and build each other up this week! (Thes.5:11)
I encourage you to encourage someone this week! If you did not get a KISS this week, with a love/dare on it during worship, or even if you did, do something that encourages someone in your home, at your work and a random stranger. Share this with us this week! I love you guys! Hope your week is GREAT! love, wendy
Thank so many of you for being at the business meeting on Sunday night. WOW! It was the fastest meeting ever! I am really excited that Josh and Jenn and Isabel will be heading to H'ville very soon! Please be praying for Josh as he will be giving his 2 week notice tomorrow at his job. Pray for his family too as they are preparing to move, Jenn is due to have baby #2 on November 30. WOW!
So, I LOVED Kidstuff today! It was all I had hoped for, it was funny, educational and fun! I noticed that the kids were totally into it....they loved it! Our class is playing a big role with this. Gabe is directing and guiding the entire production, plus starring in it, along with Rachel, Larry, Mandy and special guest performances by Ben Brown and Aaron Echols to date. Chris Socha is doing the input of all the technical aspects, which is a TON of stuff! I encourage you guys if you want a place to plug in, our children's area is a great place to do this. We have been amazed at the number of new children are coming to both Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. This is a great thing!
There are essential areas of service available....we could use additional greeters (on a rotating basis), people to help visiting children to their classes upstairs, ushers to help seat people and to pass out bulletins and welcome people. Also Lloyd Hartman is helping us out each week in setting up the Kidstuff set and others that help out. If you would like to help out in this way, email me at wendyswaby@bluegrasschurch.net
I love seeing Jennifer Beachboard, Julianna, Jeremy and Jana singing in worship. I also love seeing so many of you on Wednesday night being a part of the different classes. I love the behind the scene stuff that so many of you do, our class helps out in changing the sign out front, it makes up the communication team, it videos the services, does media, playing music in worship, serves on the vision team, as deacons, serves in extended session, teaches sunday school, does drama, serves in W.E.E., are chairman in training, serve on committees, serves on teams, ushers and so much more! God is doing a mighty work in each one of our lives. You may not see it, but I promise you, God is growing each of us, changing us, challenging us and making us more like his son Jesus! How cool is that?
I want to encourage each of you as you make a difference in eternity! It is not an accident that you are a part of this community for such a time as this. He has plans to give us hope and a future (Jer.29:11) We are changing our families, our lives and our the very path that we walk as we grow and allow God to change us. Be encouraged! If God is for us, who can be against us! All things are possible with God! Encourage one another and build each other up this week! (Thes.5:11)
I encourage you to encourage someone this week! If you did not get a KISS this week, with a love/dare on it during worship, or even if you did, do something that encourages someone in your home, at your work and a random stranger. Share this with us this week! I love you guys! Hope your week is GREAT! love, wendy
Monday, September 8, 2008
Being Thankful
Every day I am reminded by things, places, people...ect...how thankful I am to have the things I DO have. At the hospital I see the sick....I see people at their worse....and I thank the Lord for my healthy children...husband...I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful church. To be a part of so many things is a blessing too. To build relationships with others that REALLY care about you. That are not just fake or for show but who truly care about you in their heart. Who would do anything for you. The Lord has blessed me with some wonderful, loving, people and they came from OUR CHURCH! I am so excited, stressed, nervous, happy, pretty much MANY different emotions for all the changes right now at church. I was busy this morning like I'm sure many of your were...and I got a "little" stressed and I was letting it affect my mood so instead of being distant and not "there" I left in my free time and got a Starbucks and prayed about it. That really helped to go pray when things weren't going the way I wanted them to. It took that burden off my chest to give it to the Lord. I let people affect me, their actions, words, looks.....but I have to learn that God is the one I should focus on. We are there for him right!!!!! I love the new contemporary worship, I feel so free to praise him, to feel his presense. As Debbie Martin says"I just got the Jesus Bumps". Do you get that feeling when you sing, pray, ect....I love that feeling. When you hear a song that touches your heart or that relates to what you are going through. Like when we sang "Even if I fall" today. I love those lyrics. It's not just about singing along, it's about listening to what you are singing, the words to the Lord. Even if you don't like to sing you can just meditate on it! Even if I fall I'll rise again, cause you are my God, even if fall you lift me up! I mean that is amazing and so true! Here are some bible verses that spoke to me and I hope that they will mean something to you!
Psalm 105
1O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples. 2Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wonderful works. 3Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. 4Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually. 5Remember the wonderful works he has done, his miracles, and the judgements he has uttered,
I hope everyone has a wonderful week!!!!!!!!!!!
Psalm 105
1O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples. 2Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wonderful works. 3Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. 4Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually. 5Remember the wonderful works he has done, his miracles, and the judgements he has uttered,
I hope everyone has a wonderful week!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Pics from 80's Party
I know these are making the rounds, but I couldn't resist posting them here. I had a great time- I think we had 11 or 12 couples, good times, excellent attire. :) Thanks again Larry and Natalie for hosting! Looking forward to our next social event on September 12 @ the Brown's house- cookout/game night!
Monday, August 18, 2008
80's party
Hi guys! Hope everybody had a great weekend! Looking ahead to our 80's party this Friday night, I wanted to share some details with you:
Party is at Larry and Natalie Dohanos' house, 114 Saranac Trail Friday 8/22 6:30pm.
For childcare, email me by Wednesday afternoon and let me know how many kids you are bringing. You can drop them off at the church at 6:15 and they will need to be picked up by 9:00 pm. Cost is $5 per child.
What to bring: finger foods- just surprise us!, drinks will be provided. Also, each couple needs to bring an 80's white elephant gift to exchange! We have such a good time with it at Christmas, we thought it would be fun to do this for the 80's. It could be an 80's cd, movie, or some treasured memorabilia sitting in your mom's attic. Wrap it up and bring it on!
What to wear: You MUST wear 80's attire of some sort. No fun if you don't! Hit up Goodwill if you don't have anything to wear. The crazier, the better.
Please remember to email me for childcare.... Otherwise, I will see everyone there!
Loren (for Natalie)
Party is at Larry and Natalie Dohanos' house, 114 Saranac Trail Friday 8/22 6:30pm.
For childcare, email me by Wednesday afternoon and let me know how many kids you are bringing. You can drop them off at the church at 6:15 and they will need to be picked up by 9:00 pm. Cost is $5 per child.
What to bring: finger foods- just surprise us!, drinks will be provided. Also, each couple needs to bring an 80's white elephant gift to exchange! We have such a good time with it at Christmas, we thought it would be fun to do this for the 80's. It could be an 80's cd, movie, or some treasured memorabilia sitting in your mom's attic. Wrap it up and bring it on!
What to wear: You MUST wear 80's attire of some sort. No fun if you don't! Hit up Goodwill if you don't have anything to wear. The crazier, the better.
Please remember to email me for childcare.... Otherwise, I will see everyone there!
Loren (for Natalie)
Friday, August 15, 2008
Ouch!!
Has anyone else ever felt like God is taking them through a season of growth? I am there right now. All of a sudden, he is using people and circumstances to open my eyes to myself- and I don't like what I see. I want to be better for him because he has called me to step it up to the next level and really get my hands dirty and my heart clean. I know that sounds great, but man, it HURTS. It is like the "next level" is a HUGE step and it stretches every muscle I have to get there. And I don't like exercise!!
Here is what I am talking about: Three times in the past month or so I have been confronted about things that I said to people, off-hand and unwitting comments that hurt or bothered or affected them negatively. My former reaction would be to blow that off, labeling them "too sensitive" or "no sense of humor". For some reason, God is laying this message on thick: He can take away my sarcasm, my bitterness, my unforgiveness and anger. I have got to pray every day that he will heal me of these things, because they hurt me, hurt others, hurt my witness. Wow!
Here's an example: The other night a woman who I really think highly of told me that I had hurt her by making a comment about a movie character that I didn't like that she saw parts of herself in. Of course I was thinking of another person when I made the comment, someone who I have been harboring anger, bitterness, unforgiveness towards. When she told me it had upset her, it clicked for me- FINALLY- forgiveness really is not for the person you are mad at. My unforgiveness had hurt a relationship I care about, and it did not hurt the person that I am mad at one iota. It sucked to hear that a friend was upset with me, but how cool is God to use that to show me that big truth? I have been praying that God would take away my anger towards this person, but I didn't know he would do it in a painful way. I guess I thought I would pray and then poof! It would be gone one day and I would turn into Mary Sunshine. That ain't never gonna happen! But I can be a better me.
So, I am writing all of this because A. You guys are people that I love, trust, care about deeply. and B. I think God is doing the same thing with our Church that he is doing in me. He is stretching, growing, changing it into what he wants it to be. I am praying- and I hope you will- that he will reveal the yucky stuff and take it away- even if it causes pain. And it probably will.
Love, Loren
Here is what I am talking about: Three times in the past month or so I have been confronted about things that I said to people, off-hand and unwitting comments that hurt or bothered or affected them negatively. My former reaction would be to blow that off, labeling them "too sensitive" or "no sense of humor". For some reason, God is laying this message on thick: He can take away my sarcasm, my bitterness, my unforgiveness and anger. I have got to pray every day that he will heal me of these things, because they hurt me, hurt others, hurt my witness. Wow!
Here's an example: The other night a woman who I really think highly of told me that I had hurt her by making a comment about a movie character that I didn't like that she saw parts of herself in. Of course I was thinking of another person when I made the comment, someone who I have been harboring anger, bitterness, unforgiveness towards. When she told me it had upset her, it clicked for me- FINALLY- forgiveness really is not for the person you are mad at. My unforgiveness had hurt a relationship I care about, and it did not hurt the person that I am mad at one iota. It sucked to hear that a friend was upset with me, but how cool is God to use that to show me that big truth? I have been praying that God would take away my anger towards this person, but I didn't know he would do it in a painful way. I guess I thought I would pray and then poof! It would be gone one day and I would turn into Mary Sunshine. That ain't never gonna happen! But I can be a better me.
So, I am writing all of this because A. You guys are people that I love, trust, care about deeply. and B. I think God is doing the same thing with our Church that he is doing in me. He is stretching, growing, changing it into what he wants it to be. I am praying- and I hope you will- that he will reveal the yucky stuff and take it away- even if it causes pain. And it probably will.
Love, Loren
Thursday, August 14, 2008
If You are Happy and You know It...
Leslie, your email makes me smile.
There is something about the Spirit coming over us. Sometime we cry - not because we are sad yet quite the opposite. Maybe it's overwhelming joy, sensing God's deep love for us, or maybe it's just realizing how much God cares for us. Whatever the reason I want more of it.
Do you know that God is crazy about you? He wants the best for you. He create you to have a relationship. Have you taken your disappointments to God lately? It seems we take our troubles to friends, spouse, and relatives. But have we taken them to God? The bible says "Anyone who is having trouble should pray". Maybe we don't want to trouble God with our issues or hurts. Oh no, I forgot God has a few billion people to think about and what about those wars and everything else He has to worry about- He won't care about my little struggles- you think? What if we let God to decide that one. That makes me think about a wedding where He cared enough to provide more wine. And what about Peter tax payment where he provided him a coin. Remember the women at the well? Hear this...HE CARES ABOUT YOU- everything about you. May we learn to take our concerns to him (the little ones and the biggons)
I'm grateful and love you deeply. s
There is something about the Spirit coming over us. Sometime we cry - not because we are sad yet quite the opposite. Maybe it's overwhelming joy, sensing God's deep love for us, or maybe it's just realizing how much God cares for us. Whatever the reason I want more of it.
Do you know that God is crazy about you? He wants the best for you. He create you to have a relationship. Have you taken your disappointments to God lately? It seems we take our troubles to friends, spouse, and relatives. But have we taken them to God? The bible says "Anyone who is having trouble should pray". Maybe we don't want to trouble God with our issues or hurts. Oh no, I forgot God has a few billion people to think about and what about those wars and everything else He has to worry about- He won't care about my little struggles- you think? What if we let God to decide that one. That makes me think about a wedding where He cared enough to provide more wine. And what about Peter tax payment where he provided him a coin. Remember the women at the well? Hear this...HE CARES ABOUT YOU- everything about you. May we learn to take our concerns to him (the little ones and the biggons)
I'm grateful and love you deeply. s
Monday, August 11, 2008
AMAZING Grace
I just wanted to share with everyone how much yesterday's worship spoke to my heart. When we started singing Amazing Grace I got chills all over my body and the tears began to fall. At some points in the song I was so overwhelmed with emotion that I couldn't get the words out of my mouth! All I have to say is there was only one thing missing from the service: KLEENEX! My face was wet with tears. WOW!
Love,
Leslie
Love,
Leslie
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Sunday
Hope everyone is having a great week! Just wanted to share my excitement for Worship this Sunday, August 3rd. Ron Foster will be leading the music this Sunday. I encourage all of you to be there. I cannot wait! If you enjoy singing, please consider joining the choir or praise team. Please pray for our service. It is going to be different from the music we are used to at Bluegrass. Pray for Ron and his team of musicians. Pray for the congregation to have open hearts. Please pray for the Spirit to fill the Sanctuary!
If you'd like to be a part of the choir on Sunday morning, meet in the choir room at 10:10. You do not need music. ...we are singing a newer, up tempo version of "To God be the Glory". I know you will be blessed by the experience.
Hope to see each of you on Sunday!
Love,
Jana
If you'd like to be a part of the choir on Sunday morning, meet in the choir room at 10:10. You do not need music. ...we are singing a newer, up tempo version of "To God be the Glory". I know you will be blessed by the experience.
Hope to see each of you on Sunday!
Love,
Jana
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Changes at Bluegrass
As we begin a new thing at Bluegrass it is going to take each of us to make it happen. Some of you may be saying, I cannot do anything else, I am already over committed. I encourage this person to pray, seeking God's plan for you. I find so often I commit to things and then upon feeling overwhelmed realize I never asked God what He wanted. Also, I encourage this person to reduce their commitment level. So often we think, if we don't do it who will. Step out on faith, release that thing that drives you crazy, someone will pick it up. If you have been around me long you will have heard me say BUSY is "being under satans yoke". Doesn't he use this to make us crazy. Don't give in to this tactic.
Maybe you have a tough time commiting to things. Maybe once you get into it, either you feel overwhelmed or not needed. I encourage you to try out a lot of different things. Sometimes people need a lot of change and other times God desires to teach us perserverance through sticking with something that we would just as soon quit. Don't give up seeking that thing that you were created to do. God has a plan for each of us inside and outside the church.
You may be one that has never stepped up. You are not sure how to even get started. You don't know what you could do or would even like to do. I encourage you to try out different things. Try something for a couple months. There are so many opportunities in a church depending on the giftings you have. Maybe your schedule only allows you to volunteer for the special events. Maybe you could volunteer each week or every other week or one time a month. I encourage you to just start.
You know yourself and God knows you better. He created each of us with a plan and a purpose in mind. He desires for us to seek Him, asking Him where He wants us.....that is a challenge in todays culture. What if I don't like what He shows me? What if it is not my plan? Chances are with God it won't be what you had thought. But I do know one thing there is nothing more fulfilling then serving in the purpose that God designed you for. It is the BEST!
With this transition it is going to take each of us to lift. If we all lift a bit, then none of us will get weary. I think of the movie, "A Bug's Life"..... all those ants did all that work, but alone they could accomplish nothing. We must make up our minds that if this is God's plan that we are going to choose to participate, to begin lifting in some area.
I am excited at what the Lord is doing at Bluegrass. I can also tell you that I have heard a bit of grumbling and negativity from our class and from others in our church. And you know what? It encourages me, because I know it is the enemy trying to distract us. The number one commandment for us is to Love! Love God and to love each other. The enemy wants nothing more then to distract us from this mission. Don't give in to it. Others will come to know Jesus by the love we have for one another. Fight Mighty Warrior against the spirtual realm, not against flesh and blood (although it is tempting). God has a mission for Bluegrass and I am thrilled that you are part of this journey...we can do it TOGETHER! I love you, wendy
Maybe you have a tough time commiting to things. Maybe once you get into it, either you feel overwhelmed or not needed. I encourage you to try out a lot of different things. Sometimes people need a lot of change and other times God desires to teach us perserverance through sticking with something that we would just as soon quit. Don't give up seeking that thing that you were created to do. God has a plan for each of us inside and outside the church.
You may be one that has never stepped up. You are not sure how to even get started. You don't know what you could do or would even like to do. I encourage you to try out different things. Try something for a couple months. There are so many opportunities in a church depending on the giftings you have. Maybe your schedule only allows you to volunteer for the special events. Maybe you could volunteer each week or every other week or one time a month. I encourage you to just start.
You know yourself and God knows you better. He created each of us with a plan and a purpose in mind. He desires for us to seek Him, asking Him where He wants us.....that is a challenge in todays culture. What if I don't like what He shows me? What if it is not my plan? Chances are with God it won't be what you had thought. But I do know one thing there is nothing more fulfilling then serving in the purpose that God designed you for. It is the BEST!
With this transition it is going to take each of us to lift. If we all lift a bit, then none of us will get weary. I think of the movie, "A Bug's Life"..... all those ants did all that work, but alone they could accomplish nothing. We must make up our minds that if this is God's plan that we are going to choose to participate, to begin lifting in some area.
I am excited at what the Lord is doing at Bluegrass. I can also tell you that I have heard a bit of grumbling and negativity from our class and from others in our church. And you know what? It encourages me, because I know it is the enemy trying to distract us. The number one commandment for us is to Love! Love God and to love each other. The enemy wants nothing more then to distract us from this mission. Don't give in to it. Others will come to know Jesus by the love we have for one another. Fight Mighty Warrior against the spirtual realm, not against flesh and blood (although it is tempting). God has a mission for Bluegrass and I am thrilled that you are part of this journey...we can do it TOGETHER! I love you, wendy
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Mere Christianity . C.S. Lewis
okay...i just finished this book. WOW! What a great book....it is not a fast read because it makes you think. Anyone want to read it and share your thoughts with me. I know that Rick Harris has read it. Has anyone else? I bet there is a copy in the church library. I am ready to hear what you think.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
ClassNEWS - July 08
I cannot believe that it is July! I am excited that this Thursday is July 3rd. We will be at Drakes Creek Park this year (again) and everyone is invited. We are planning to get there at 6:00ish. We will be at the same shelter. (turn into the park by Demo's and it is the first shelter on the right...between all the baseball fields) Bring food or drinks if you want, chairs, blankets and maybe some bug spray. I am thinking there will be another kick ball game for those that are not scared (wear your tennis shoes....or not). I hope to see all of you guys there. Invite other people to come with you. My parents will be there with some of their friends too.
Can I tell you how amazed I am to see God working so right now at Bluegrass? And just like Loren's email, the enemy is working overtime. What is cool though, is that we are able to see this and recognize the enemies schemes. Do you see it in your own life? Do you see how you begin to draw closer to God either by attempting to be transparent in a new friendship, or begin a quiet time or attempt to conquer some fear in your life or become debt free.....and what happens? You get hurt by your transparency, your life gets busier then ever and cannot find the time for the quiet time, you get hurt through facing your fears or you are tempted to purchase things when you don't have the money to spend. This is all the enemy. He does not want you to be free. He spends all his days figuring out what will keep you in bondage. So what do you do? Well you tell God about it, you tell Him that you see these schemes of the enemy and you ask Him for strength....you ask Him for courage to do the right thing. Remember the bible says, that you shall know the truth and the truth with set you free! Bring it into the light, there is freedom there, don't hide, don't withdraw, don't deny...that is playing right into the enemies hand. Expose it, allow God to heal it....it may be hard, it may be painful....you may think it will kill you! It won't. I promise. (I continue to find myself there all the time)
I am so excited to see what God is doing in your lives. yes, all of you. He is moving each of you along. Challenging you, healing you, changing you! What could be better? This is that Holy Adventure that Matt talks about. You are in it. Don't give up! Remember He has a plan and a purpose for your life....and it is not the status quo. It is not to be safe and to never change. It is to be a mighty warrior, unstoppable for God. What is He doing in your life?
I love you guys and pray for you often. remember nothing worth having is easy....it is a counterfeit. See you soon! love, wendy
Can I tell you how amazed I am to see God working so right now at Bluegrass? And just like Loren's email, the enemy is working overtime. What is cool though, is that we are able to see this and recognize the enemies schemes. Do you see it in your own life? Do you see how you begin to draw closer to God either by attempting to be transparent in a new friendship, or begin a quiet time or attempt to conquer some fear in your life or become debt free.....and what happens? You get hurt by your transparency, your life gets busier then ever and cannot find the time for the quiet time, you get hurt through facing your fears or you are tempted to purchase things when you don't have the money to spend. This is all the enemy. He does not want you to be free. He spends all his days figuring out what will keep you in bondage. So what do you do? Well you tell God about it, you tell Him that you see these schemes of the enemy and you ask Him for strength....you ask Him for courage to do the right thing. Remember the bible says, that you shall know the truth and the truth with set you free! Bring it into the light, there is freedom there, don't hide, don't withdraw, don't deny...that is playing right into the enemies hand. Expose it, allow God to heal it....it may be hard, it may be painful....you may think it will kill you! It won't. I promise. (I continue to find myself there all the time)
I am so excited to see what God is doing in your lives. yes, all of you. He is moving each of you along. Challenging you, healing you, changing you! What could be better? This is that Holy Adventure that Matt talks about. You are in it. Don't give up! Remember He has a plan and a purpose for your life....and it is not the status quo. It is not to be safe and to never change. It is to be a mighty warrior, unstoppable for God. What is He doing in your life?
I love you guys and pray for you often. remember nothing worth having is easy....it is a counterfeit. See you soon! love, wendy
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Sticking Together
Hey guys.... this has been laid on my heart the last few days....
We are about to go through a time of change at Bluegrass. I am really excited about it, but not everyone will be. There will be spiritual warfare to contend with. I hope that we can recognize it, that we will call it out for what it is, and that we will stick together. I love all of you guys....seriously. I remember the year that Aaron and I spent in Hendersonville before joining Bluegrass. It was lonely, and something was missing! We feel so fortunate to have this group of people to share life with. I also remember the Fall of 2006 and what an incredibly difficult time that was for us, and how you guys helped us pull through and come out stronger. What an incredible blessing.
All that to say, let's stick together during this time, be honest and loving towards each other, avoid gossip and harshness, apologize and forgive! I have already had to do all that this week!
Love you guys-
Loren
We are about to go through a time of change at Bluegrass. I am really excited about it, but not everyone will be. There will be spiritual warfare to contend with. I hope that we can recognize it, that we will call it out for what it is, and that we will stick together. I love all of you guys....seriously. I remember the year that Aaron and I spent in Hendersonville before joining Bluegrass. It was lonely, and something was missing! We feel so fortunate to have this group of people to share life with. I also remember the Fall of 2006 and what an incredibly difficult time that was for us, and how you guys helped us pull through and come out stronger. What an incredible blessing.
All that to say, let's stick together during this time, be honest and loving towards each other, avoid gossip and harshness, apologize and forgive! I have already had to do all that this week!
Love you guys-
Loren
Friday, June 27, 2008
News
I wanted to make everyone aware that Craig Duncan, our interim minister of music for the past 7 years, has resigned. We are so thankful to Craig for what he means to Bluegrass. He has said that he will withcontinue leading the music until we find someone to take his place. He is also going on a trip to Ireland for 3 weeks in August. Please pray for he and Peggy as they prepare for this trip and as they travel. Please let Craig know how much you appreciate his years of service at Bluegrass.
Also I wanted to remind you that you are all invited to the Focus Team meeting this Sunday from 2-4p in the worship center. This is a presentation of what Bluegrass will look like this fall. I encourage each of you to come and those that have already heard the new plan, please be praying for those that have not heard it. This is a very important time in the life of our church. God is moving in a mighty way and we want to follow Him with all our hearts. I am so excited to be on this journey with you. love, wendy
Also I wanted to remind you that you are all invited to the Focus Team meeting this Sunday from 2-4p in the worship center. This is a presentation of what Bluegrass will look like this fall. I encourage each of you to come and those that have already heard the new plan, please be praying for those that have not heard it. This is a very important time in the life of our church. God is moving in a mighty way and we want to follow Him with all our hearts. I am so excited to be on this journey with you. love, wendy
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Night of Worship
I would love to hear all of your comments on the Night of Worship. I have heard from a few of you, but would love to hear what you guys think about the direction that Bluegrass is taking. Any suggestions, concerns, comments and encouragement are welcome! love, wendy
Sunday, June 15, 2008
wed night/cross training
The next two weeks are full of exciting events!! First, Wednesday night's worship service at 6:30pm...then CrossTraining starts next Sunday! It is so important for us to support/pray for both of these events.
Everyone have a super week!
Love,
Jana:)
Happy Father's Day to all of our Fabulous Dads!!!
Everyone have a super week!
Love,
Jana:)
Happy Father's Day to all of our Fabulous Dads!!!
Saturday, June 14, 2008
A Night of Worship
I am really, really excited about Wednesday night! I can't wait to see what worship in the "Community Service" is going to look like. I hope to see lots of people there! This is a milestone in the life of our church and I am really pumped to be a part of it!
(Just thought I would throw that out there so I could post a blog. . .for the first time ever!)
(Just thought I would throw that out there so I could post a blog. . .for the first time ever!)
ClassNEWS - June 08
I loved last night and "Marriage Matters" with Gidget at Bluegrass. We had about 27 couples that came to do something for their marriages. It was great! We talked about communication and respect. Gidget gave us all homework. It includes taking 5 minutes each day to discuss what was unsatisfying about your relationship and what was satisfying (in that order). Then on the weekends spend about 15 minutes doing the same thing. This is not a time to pick on the other person, but to discuss how you feel. If you did not make it this weekend, jump on board by doing the homework. I want you guys to comment on how the homework is going. I expect each of you to be really honest! Next one ...
Marriage Matters . June 27 . Friday . 6:30p . 9:30p....
(be early, we'll start at 6:30p)
We just finished up at Fresh Start Resources with our Extreme Love Project. Thank you Beth Doucet for organizing this. Everything looked amazing when we left. The landscaped beds looked great, we fixed some wood that had rotten on the eaves, painted the windows and sills and weeded the roses and fence line. Thanks to Kim White and Stephen, Beth, Stacy and the girls, your the best! I encourage each of you to find ways in the community to give back, whether it be in the school system, parks league, library, etc. I believe it honors God when we do random acts of kindness that we get nothing in return for. Try it....it rocks!
Thank you Miranda Hatcher for an amazing Summer Blast OFF! Thank you also for all of you that volunteered on this date to make it so successful. I loved seeing so many of your smiling faces. We have another opportunity this year which is coming up in a week called Crosstraining. this is our sports camp that runs Sunday . June 22 - June 26 from 6p . 8:30p. I encourage each of you to be a part of this great week. If you can contact Suzette at children@bluegrasschurch.net. I know Stacy is doing football . Jeff Hatcher: basketball . Rick Harris: maritial arts, Jennifer Brown: administration and registration, and many more of you are in other areas. It is a great time to hang out and serve together. I hope to see each of you there!
Each of you knows that we are working on a new opportunity in the fall which will include Kidstuff on Sundays and also another worship service which will be a community worship. I would love it if you would join us this
Wednesday night . June 18 at 6:30p - 7:30p for A Night of Worship
This will give you an idea of what we are talking when we discuss "community worship". There will not be a sermon just a night of worship.
WOW! Do you think that we can cram any more things in this summer? I want each of you to remember that these are opportunities, many of you are on vacation or have other commitments, please don't feel obligated to participate (no guilt) just invited. The hope of the staff at Bluegrass is to partner with families to help simplify the chaos in your lives, not add to it.
I have been so encouraged by this BALANCE series of how many of you are reading your bibles daily and working to become a student of God through prayer and reading his word. Remember it is all a balance between knowing, praying and experiencing (through community and relationships). We are all on a journey together and we need each other. I am excited what God is doing at Bluegrass and how He is raising each of you up to be all that He created you to be. We begin next week, after Father's Day, a new series called HOLY ADVENTURE. This will take us through the summer into September. This life really is an Adventure, don't miss it! I love you guys! wendy
Marriage Matters . June 27 . Friday . 6:30p . 9:30p....
(be early, we'll start at 6:30p)
We just finished up at Fresh Start Resources with our Extreme Love Project. Thank you Beth Doucet for organizing this. Everything looked amazing when we left. The landscaped beds looked great, we fixed some wood that had rotten on the eaves, painted the windows and sills and weeded the roses and fence line. Thanks to Kim White and Stephen, Beth, Stacy and the girls, your the best! I encourage each of you to find ways in the community to give back, whether it be in the school system, parks league, library, etc. I believe it honors God when we do random acts of kindness that we get nothing in return for. Try it....it rocks!
Thank you Miranda Hatcher for an amazing Summer Blast OFF! Thank you also for all of you that volunteered on this date to make it so successful. I loved seeing so many of your smiling faces. We have another opportunity this year which is coming up in a week called Crosstraining. this is our sports camp that runs Sunday . June 22 - June 26 from 6p . 8:30p. I encourage each of you to be a part of this great week. If you can contact Suzette at children@bluegrasschurch.net. I know Stacy is doing football . Jeff Hatcher: basketball . Rick Harris: maritial arts, Jennifer Brown: administration and registration, and many more of you are in other areas. It is a great time to hang out and serve together. I hope to see each of you there!
Each of you knows that we are working on a new opportunity in the fall which will include Kidstuff on Sundays and also another worship service which will be a community worship. I would love it if you would join us this
Wednesday night . June 18 at 6:30p - 7:30p for A Night of Worship
This will give you an idea of what we are talking when we discuss "community worship". There will not be a sermon just a night of worship.
WOW! Do you think that we can cram any more things in this summer? I want each of you to remember that these are opportunities, many of you are on vacation or have other commitments, please don't feel obligated to participate (no guilt) just invited. The hope of the staff at Bluegrass is to partner with families to help simplify the chaos in your lives, not add to it.
I have been so encouraged by this BALANCE series of how many of you are reading your bibles daily and working to become a student of God through prayer and reading his word. Remember it is all a balance between knowing, praying and experiencing (through community and relationships). We are all on a journey together and we need each other. I am excited what God is doing at Bluegrass and how He is raising each of you up to be all that He created you to be. We begin next week, after Father's Day, a new series called HOLY ADVENTURE. This will take us through the summer into September. This life really is an Adventure, don't miss it! I love you guys! wendy
Friday, May 16, 2008
Beth Moore
I am so excited that this simulcast will be here in Hendersonville on August 1 and 2. Ladies (and husbands help your wives make this a priority) please make every effort to be a part of this event. I promise there is something that God wants to share with you on this weekend. You will miss it if you don't go. These tickets will only be sold through June 1 (that is coming up soon), so email Lisa and let her know that you want to go. I asked for this for my birthday from my mom. (point: get creative) Tickets are $35.00. We can all get together to share meals before and after the event. It will be a BLAST! I cannot wait ... remember we are all busy and we all have lots of choices....if we don't choose this for ourselves, no one else will.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Beth Moore Simulcast
Good news! The simulcast is now going to take place at First Baptist in Hendersonville. It will be some much closer! I hope that you will all consider going with us!
Friday, May 9, 2008
ClassNEWS .... May 9
Hey guys! Today was an eventful day and one that was a day of trusting God. Sally had orthoscopic surgery on her knee. We are not sure what she did but we know that the plica (sp? a fold of skin at the inside of her knee) was raised. The orthodpedist went in and cut it so that it would not rub anymore. Sally did great! Kids are so resilient. God was good and He not only had her come through the surgery just fine, He also gave Sally and I some one on one time. Thank you all for your prayers, they did amazing things today!
I realize as we have been talking about balance and the Lord allowed this circumstance in our lives today, that there is nothing as important as our immediate family. For some reason there is a drive inside of me that I don't understand that wants to acheive. It seems to battle for my time. Even though all that I desire to acheive is good, it still takes me to a place of detachment. Does anyone get this? It is easy to check things off the list and feel good about me....it is quite another to never have a check off on the list and feel okay about me. Do you think that this is because I equate who I am with what I do? That sounds horrible. But in some sad way, I think it is true. Maybe it is even a little true for all of us. My prayer is that I would know that the Lord is crazy about me, just for being me. I also need to admit when the Lord gives me glimpses of my imbalance that I admit that He is right and ask Him to create balance within me. I cannot tell you how often I argue with God telling Him, that is not true or justifying circumstances in my life. The only thing this does it make the chains of bondage just a little bit tighter. Will you join me on this journey of freedom?
I love you guys! I know that God is good because He has so blessed me with friends and fellow journey people such as you. We are each a mighty warrior, are you living as one? See you on Sunday! Happy Mother's Day! love, wendy
I realize as we have been talking about balance and the Lord allowed this circumstance in our lives today, that there is nothing as important as our immediate family. For some reason there is a drive inside of me that I don't understand that wants to acheive. It seems to battle for my time. Even though all that I desire to acheive is good, it still takes me to a place of detachment. Does anyone get this? It is easy to check things off the list and feel good about me....it is quite another to never have a check off on the list and feel okay about me. Do you think that this is because I equate who I am with what I do? That sounds horrible. But in some sad way, I think it is true. Maybe it is even a little true for all of us. My prayer is that I would know that the Lord is crazy about me, just for being me. I also need to admit when the Lord gives me glimpses of my imbalance that I admit that He is right and ask Him to create balance within me. I cannot tell you how often I argue with God telling Him, that is not true or justifying circumstances in my life. The only thing this does it make the chains of bondage just a little bit tighter. Will you join me on this journey of freedom?
I love you guys! I know that God is good because He has so blessed me with friends and fellow journey people such as you. We are each a mighty warrior, are you living as one? See you on Sunday! Happy Mother's Day! love, wendy
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Living Proof Live Simulcast with Beth Moore
August 1-2, 2008 (It's a Friday night and Saturday morning!)
Hermitage Hills Baptist Church
I wanted to share a quick tidbit with you all! We would love to have a large group go to this event. Several of us have been in the past so you can talk to me, Wendy, Mandy or Miranda if you have question. This is a great opportunity because you don't have to travel, spend money on a hotel and fight the crowds of a true Living Proof Live event.
I can honestly tell you that God has changed my life through the teaching of Beth Moore. She is an amazing woman of God. If you go, you won't be disappointed! She has this amazing gift to always teach things in a new light and give you a new understanding of God. I've been to a few of these events and God is always faithful to show up in a big way!
Guys- If you need a Mother's Day gift, this would be a great gift to give to your wife! Give her the gift of some time to go and worship and learn and she will come back refreshed! Give her the gift of not having to worry about finding a babysitter by telling her that you will handle the kids and she'll remember what a great dad you are! Call or email me if you want to buy a ticket! Lisa
Hermitage Hills Baptist Church
I wanted to share a quick tidbit with you all! We would love to have a large group go to this event. Several of us have been in the past so you can talk to me, Wendy, Mandy or Miranda if you have question. This is a great opportunity because you don't have to travel, spend money on a hotel and fight the crowds of a true Living Proof Live event.
I can honestly tell you that God has changed my life through the teaching of Beth Moore. She is an amazing woman of God. If you go, you won't be disappointed! She has this amazing gift to always teach things in a new light and give you a new understanding of God. I've been to a few of these events and God is always faithful to show up in a big way!
Guys- If you need a Mother's Day gift, this would be a great gift to give to your wife! Give her the gift of some time to go and worship and learn and she will come back refreshed! Give her the gift of not having to worry about finding a babysitter by telling her that you will handle the kids and she'll remember what a great dad you are! Call or email me if you want to buy a ticket! Lisa
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Happy Birthday to Beth
Hey Everyone it is Beth Doucet's Birthday! She is "27"... this was the roughest one I had. Everyone wish Beth Happy 27th!
We are doing a birthday get together for Beth tonight at Casa Viejo at 8:30p. If you can join us Please DO!
We are doing a birthday get together for Beth tonight at Casa Viejo at 8:30p. If you can join us Please DO!
BLOGGERS!!!! & Survey
Okay.... I have added a number of names since I have heard that many of you wanted to respond to the ClassNEWS but could not. (sorry) If you would like to be an author on the site, let me know and i will add you.
Also, please take the survey .... only 6 days!
Also, please take the survey .... only 6 days!
Sunday, May 4, 2008
ClassNEWS .... May
Hey guys! How are you? I NEED BALANCE! Does anyone relate to this? I hope to find out how to have this over the next few weeks during our sermon series BALANCE! I also want to really focus on my "Give 3". How am I going to give to God 3 hours of my time whether inside or outside the church. I know God has a plan for me (and you) if I would just ask Him, I am sure that my life would be much more balanced. Committing to things before I ask Him, saying "yes" whichout consulting Him, watching 3 hours of television at night...like this is going to help me relax, going to a girls night and standing in the parking lot until 12:30a (right Miranda and Jenn). What is balance? I encourage each of you to begin asking God this question for you. What is balance for me, may not be balance for you. (let me know what you find out... blog what the Lord shows you)
I LOVED the impromtu get together that we had on Saturday at the lake. I think we had around 20 people there. If you took pics please forward them to me and I will put them on the website. If you know how to do it, go ahead. I love hanging out with you guys! I love discussing struggles and challenges. I love talking about how we all wrestle with God. I love admitting and not being fearful to admit, I DON"T KNOW THE ANSWERS! Thank you guys for this. Jenn Brown you are the best social coordinator....and your side kick Ben isn't too bad either.
We have so many opportunities to give back, I am going to list a few. Again, don't get overwhelmed, just commit to one (if it works) I have to remember for me....what I believe the Lord desires is Him #1, my family #2, my church #3. Stacy and I read a book one time that talked about sometimes you need to be an "A" familiy and a "B" employee. This was to indicate that you are more responsible to your family, then you are to you job. Interesting huh? Please don't look at our lives as examples of this, we definately don't have it together here.
Our next outing is May 30, Friday night at the Drive IN....watch for more details. The Lock in for the Middle Schoolers is May 16 beginnning at 10p until 6a. We have different shifts that we need drivers and chaperones. The shifts include a movie, bowling and dinner and games at the church. If any of this interests you, let me know. Also the youth will be having an end of year party on Wednesday night, May 21. Aaron & Loren Echols are going to be the point people on this. They are doing a video scavenger hunt, and since most of us have had such great experiences with scavenger hunts, right? I thought some of you might want to volunteer to drive and chaperone. Oh did I mention that the winning team for the "Amazing Race" were Jana Miller (yes, not Mark), Jenn Brown, Bryan Doucet, Jeff Hatcher and me. Thank you again, Natalie & Larry for all that you did to make this an amazing night.
Okay...I have to end this...the opportunities that are coming.....
Wednesday pm - St. Judes bake sale - donate items either Tuesday or Wednesday in the church parlor's kitchen or just bring them Wednesday evening. Come purchase items too at 5p.Wed.
Saturday am - give your canned goods to the postal person for the Samaritan Center. Want to volunteer 3 hours to help sort cans at the post office or the samaritian center, call me for details.
Saturday pm - Golf scramble ... be at the course by 12:30p. Need directions, call church office.
Sunday . all day . MOTHER's DAY!
Hope your week is great! I am so thankful for each of you and I am praying for you! love, wendy
Love you guys,
I LOVED the impromtu get together that we had on Saturday at the lake. I think we had around 20 people there. If you took pics please forward them to me and I will put them on the website. If you know how to do it, go ahead. I love hanging out with you guys! I love discussing struggles and challenges. I love talking about how we all wrestle with God. I love admitting and not being fearful to admit, I DON"T KNOW THE ANSWERS! Thank you guys for this. Jenn Brown you are the best social coordinator....and your side kick Ben isn't too bad either.
We have so many opportunities to give back, I am going to list a few. Again, don't get overwhelmed, just commit to one (if it works) I have to remember for me....what I believe the Lord desires is Him #1, my family #2, my church #3. Stacy and I read a book one time that talked about sometimes you need to be an "A" familiy and a "B" employee. This was to indicate that you are more responsible to your family, then you are to you job. Interesting huh? Please don't look at our lives as examples of this, we definately don't have it together here.
Our next outing is May 30, Friday night at the Drive IN....watch for more details. The Lock in for the Middle Schoolers is May 16 beginnning at 10p until 6a. We have different shifts that we need drivers and chaperones. The shifts include a movie, bowling and dinner and games at the church. If any of this interests you, let me know. Also the youth will be having an end of year party on Wednesday night, May 21. Aaron & Loren Echols are going to be the point people on this. They are doing a video scavenger hunt, and since most of us have had such great experiences with scavenger hunts, right? I thought some of you might want to volunteer to drive and chaperone. Oh did I mention that the winning team for the "Amazing Race" were Jana Miller (yes, not Mark), Jenn Brown, Bryan Doucet, Jeff Hatcher and me. Thank you again, Natalie & Larry for all that you did to make this an amazing night.
Okay...I have to end this...the opportunities that are coming.....
Wednesday pm - St. Judes bake sale - donate items either Tuesday or Wednesday in the church parlor's kitchen or just bring them Wednesday evening. Come purchase items too at 5p.Wed.
Saturday am - give your canned goods to the postal person for the Samaritan Center. Want to volunteer 3 hours to help sort cans at the post office or the samaritian center, call me for details.
Saturday pm - Golf scramble ... be at the course by 12:30p. Need directions, call church office.
Sunday . all day . MOTHER's DAY!
Hope your week is great! I am so thankful for each of you and I am praying for you! love, wendy
Love you guys,
Friday, April 4, 2008
ClassNEWS
Hey guys! I am still having issues with this class news thing. I cannot seem to remember the password to get in. anyway...I have it now. Yeah!
What a few weeks we have had. We have gone out of the country to the British Virgin Islands on a sailboat for 8 days, which has always been a dream vacation for Stacy (and I too am sold now). This trip was an amazing opportunity for our family. It was neat before we left how God impressed upon me, "this is my blessing for you". WOW! The God of the universe is really interested in every part of my life. So much so that He blessed my family with this amazing trip. It is amazing what happens when you look at things through this lens. It made me look for Him the entire trip. In the sunrises and sunsets, in the beautiful weather and the rain. It was like it was all for me and He was doing this to bless me. And it did bless me. What if I looked at each day like this? What if I looked at each day as a blessing from God? Because it is, when I think about it. Although, I don't normally stop long enough to think about it.
Today is a sad day, we had to put Molly (our golden retriever) to sleep today. Stacy and I took her to the vet this a.m. This was our third trip in 3 weeks. She had not responded to her medicine and was continuing to get worse and not eat. I knew this was the best decision for her, you know our bodies are not meant to last forever. It was weird, as we stayed in the room while they gave her the injection knowing this was the best option, I began to cry. In fact, I am crying as I type this. This is really strange to me, we know it is the best but yet for some reason it is very sad. Crying has always been something I don't really understand. I do know that it is okay to cry which has not always been the case for me. I guess I need to just embrace it and be thankful that I do cry.
I look forward to seeing you guys on Sunday. We will begin our new classes May 4th. We will have 2 classes to choose from for the summer. The reason we are only doing 2 is because in the summer people are usually traveling. We will do this cycle for 3 months as well. The two options will be "in-depth bible study" led by Todd Brachey. Then the open forum that we have been doing. We may choose to do a study in the midst of the open forum, not sure yet. I really would like for us to do the curriculum "A Walk across the Room" by Bill Hybels. Begin praying about which group you will be in.
This 3:16 series on Love will go until April 27th. We are offering the bible study at night from 6-7pm in the worship area. We had about 60 people there last week. If you did not join us and would like to do, you can pick up. Also, Life Journey is coming up next Sunday, April 13th from 4-7pm. If you can make it I encourage you to do so....it really is good with a dinner included. You won't want to miss April 20th, this is the Sunday of the ministry fair. This is the day that each of our ministries that are in our church advertise what they offer and you can choose to sign up to participate in any of them. some are one day commitments and some are year commitments. I encourage you to find some area to begin serving in, even if you are not sure you will be good at it. You will never know what you like and don't like until you try. Also, for those of you that feel maybe you don't know enough to teach (which probably includes all of us) I encourage you to volunteer to help teach in the children or youth area. This is where I served for 8 years and I learned more teaching then I did sitting in a class. Just a thought.
Oh, last but certainly not least....our APRIL social! Saturday, April 19th we are having a fish fry at the Dohanos's new home. Charles will be cooking for us. We will meet and eat and then Natalie is planning a great time of competition as we compete in the "AMAZING RACE....BBC style". Where your tennis shoes and comfortable clothes. There will be prizes for the winners. Don't miss it! Invite a friend to come with you, this is a great opportunity to include others in what community looks like. I love you guys! Thank you for loving me. Hope to see you this weekend. wendy
What a few weeks we have had. We have gone out of the country to the British Virgin Islands on a sailboat for 8 days, which has always been a dream vacation for Stacy (and I too am sold now). This trip was an amazing opportunity for our family. It was neat before we left how God impressed upon me, "this is my blessing for you". WOW! The God of the universe is really interested in every part of my life. So much so that He blessed my family with this amazing trip. It is amazing what happens when you look at things through this lens. It made me look for Him the entire trip. In the sunrises and sunsets, in the beautiful weather and the rain. It was like it was all for me and He was doing this to bless me. And it did bless me. What if I looked at each day like this? What if I looked at each day as a blessing from God? Because it is, when I think about it. Although, I don't normally stop long enough to think about it.
Today is a sad day, we had to put Molly (our golden retriever) to sleep today. Stacy and I took her to the vet this a.m. This was our third trip in 3 weeks. She had not responded to her medicine and was continuing to get worse and not eat. I knew this was the best decision for her, you know our bodies are not meant to last forever. It was weird, as we stayed in the room while they gave her the injection knowing this was the best option, I began to cry. In fact, I am crying as I type this. This is really strange to me, we know it is the best but yet for some reason it is very sad. Crying has always been something I don't really understand. I do know that it is okay to cry which has not always been the case for me. I guess I need to just embrace it and be thankful that I do cry.
I look forward to seeing you guys on Sunday. We will begin our new classes May 4th. We will have 2 classes to choose from for the summer. The reason we are only doing 2 is because in the summer people are usually traveling. We will do this cycle for 3 months as well. The two options will be "in-depth bible study" led by Todd Brachey. Then the open forum that we have been doing. We may choose to do a study in the midst of the open forum, not sure yet. I really would like for us to do the curriculum "A Walk across the Room" by Bill Hybels. Begin praying about which group you will be in.
This 3:16 series on Love will go until April 27th. We are offering the bible study at night from 6-7pm in the worship area. We had about 60 people there last week. If you did not join us and would like to do, you can pick up. Also, Life Journey is coming up next Sunday, April 13th from 4-7pm. If you can make it I encourage you to do so....it really is good with a dinner included. You won't want to miss April 20th, this is the Sunday of the ministry fair. This is the day that each of our ministries that are in our church advertise what they offer and you can choose to sign up to participate in any of them. some are one day commitments and some are year commitments. I encourage you to find some area to begin serving in, even if you are not sure you will be good at it. You will never know what you like and don't like until you try. Also, for those of you that feel maybe you don't know enough to teach (which probably includes all of us) I encourage you to volunteer to help teach in the children or youth area. This is where I served for 8 years and I learned more teaching then I did sitting in a class. Just a thought.
Oh, last but certainly not least....our APRIL social! Saturday, April 19th we are having a fish fry at the Dohanos's new home. Charles will be cooking for us. We will meet and eat and then Natalie is planning a great time of competition as we compete in the "AMAZING RACE....BBC style". Where your tennis shoes and comfortable clothes. There will be prizes for the winners. Don't miss it! Invite a friend to come with you, this is a great opportunity to include others in what community looks like. I love you guys! Thank you for loving me. Hope to see you this weekend. wendy
Monday, March 31, 2008
Prayer Request
Hey Guys,
For those of you who were not in the open topic SS class this week...I have to make a tough decision very soon, and I need all the prayer I can get. I apologize in advance...this is not a happey blog, or a short one, but writing out my feelings always make me feel better, and helps to put things in perspective. ;0)
To give you a bit of background...my dad passed away five years ago. My mother remarried one year later, and shortly afterward informed my sisters and I that she no longer wanted to be buried next to my dad. She and her husband are going to buy burial plots next to my grandparents instead.
Here is where my tough decision comes in. My uncle, who has stage four lung cancer, is in the hospital...indefinitely. He was given six months to live...nine months ago. He is not doing well, and is struggling financially. My sister called this weekend to tell me that my mom wanted to give her burial plot to my uncle.
The only comfort I have found in my mom not being buried next to my dad is that the headstone has both my parents names, birthdates, their wedding date, and my dad's favorite bible verse, written out. Even though my mom would not be there, I could still go there to remember the both of them...as a couple, and my parents. My mom feels like leaving the headstone the way it is leads people to believe she will still be buried there. I don't know why that matters, but she doesn't want people to think that for some reason. Now, we will be removing that headstone to replace it with a small one for my dad, so a small one could be put immediately next to it for my uncle.
My dad loved his brother...but he was also very much in love with my mom. I know in my heart he would not want this...and would probably be hurt by it. His greatest fear of dying was being forgotten. Every step my mom has taken after his death has been a step away from him, and his memory. She immediatley sold their home, then gave away all of his things, gave away all of the pictures with him in them, then told us she was going to be buried with her new husband, rather than our dad, her husband of thirty years, and now, she is going to completely remove his head stone, and any evidence of his marriage to her, and give away her burial plot.
I know that this is only his burial site...I know he is no longer here, but in a much happier place. I know that God does not want me to cause issues in our family over this...but just the same, I am struggling with this. Deeply struggling.
Please just be in prayer for me and my family. I have dealt with so much pain relating to my dad's death, and all I want is to let go and move on. Every time I believe I have done this, something happens, or is said, that rips open was I thought was a healed wound. I probably won't bring this up in calss...because I am very emotional right now...in case you couldn't tell...but if all of you could just pray for peace. At this point, all I want is peace.
Thanks!
Love you all!
Beth
For those of you who were not in the open topic SS class this week...I have to make a tough decision very soon, and I need all the prayer I can get. I apologize in advance...this is not a happey blog, or a short one, but writing out my feelings always make me feel better, and helps to put things in perspective. ;0)
To give you a bit of background...my dad passed away five years ago. My mother remarried one year later, and shortly afterward informed my sisters and I that she no longer wanted to be buried next to my dad. She and her husband are going to buy burial plots next to my grandparents instead.
Here is where my tough decision comes in. My uncle, who has stage four lung cancer, is in the hospital...indefinitely. He was given six months to live...nine months ago. He is not doing well, and is struggling financially. My sister called this weekend to tell me that my mom wanted to give her burial plot to my uncle.
The only comfort I have found in my mom not being buried next to my dad is that the headstone has both my parents names, birthdates, their wedding date, and my dad's favorite bible verse, written out. Even though my mom would not be there, I could still go there to remember the both of them...as a couple, and my parents. My mom feels like leaving the headstone the way it is leads people to believe she will still be buried there. I don't know why that matters, but she doesn't want people to think that for some reason. Now, we will be removing that headstone to replace it with a small one for my dad, so a small one could be put immediately next to it for my uncle.
My dad loved his brother...but he was also very much in love with my mom. I know in my heart he would not want this...and would probably be hurt by it. His greatest fear of dying was being forgotten. Every step my mom has taken after his death has been a step away from him, and his memory. She immediatley sold their home, then gave away all of his things, gave away all of the pictures with him in them, then told us she was going to be buried with her new husband, rather than our dad, her husband of thirty years, and now, she is going to completely remove his head stone, and any evidence of his marriage to her, and give away her burial plot.
I know that this is only his burial site...I know he is no longer here, but in a much happier place. I know that God does not want me to cause issues in our family over this...but just the same, I am struggling with this. Deeply struggling.
Please just be in prayer for me and my family. I have dealt with so much pain relating to my dad's death, and all I want is to let go and move on. Every time I believe I have done this, something happens, or is said, that rips open was I thought was a healed wound. I probably won't bring this up in calss...because I am very emotional right now...in case you couldn't tell...but if all of you could just pray for peace. At this point, all I want is peace.
Thanks!
Love you all!
Beth
Friday, March 14, 2008
Home Builders What?
OK I admit it- the home builders name got me a little. I thought maybe its people looking for an home improvement project but nooooooo we are building families- a little slow -duh.
I'm a little slow and still wonder how this blog thing will work out for me. It seems a blogger could be a booger without the L. So listen up booger bloggers wannabe home builders we need this connected to the BBC website without all this login stuff. It took me ten minutes just to get here and I don't even know if this post will publish.
Your Booger Blogger Friend...
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Class NEWS
How are you guys? I am so excited to see how this works. Have you guys had a great week? My week has been a roller coaster, but I must tell you I find myself in a good place today. Not sure why. Maybe it is the great weather, maybe it is doing my quiet time faithfully each day or maybe it is because I have people praying for me. Anyway, it is a good day.
Have you guys checked out the leavingegypt.com site yet? No excuses, there is a link at the bottom of the page. Check out the "share something" part and share something. I promise it is completely anonymous. How many of you have found yourself in a place that you feel that you will never overcome? It could be an addiction to something, it could be gossip, it could be not able to commit to a quiet time... whatever makes you feel powerless...Then this leads to discouragement. This is the enemies greatest weapon "discouragement". I have started to realize that there are people that just discourage me. Do you find this? I think that I am to minimize these people in my life. I know that there are these people all around and I cannot avoid them all....but I can make sure I add those people that encourage me and build me up each day too. It is important that I consciously balance this in my life. It is something I have realized just this week. Try it, let me know how it goes.
We have Easter coming up. I want to encourage you about this Good Friday service at 7p, entitled "Seven", you will not want to miss it. Mandy has helped to organize the visual and dramatic aspect of it. Mark and Ben are participating as well. Matt has written it. It will be an unforgettable night. There will be childcare for preschoolers. Drop off your preschooler at the preschool hall and then drive to the worship center entrance and enter this way, no questions, just do it. Ha! Invite someone to come, again, no pressure if they don't, let the Holy Spirit work that one out.
Also, those of you that have not gone through LifeJourney...the next step, try to make this a point in April. It is the second Sunday from 4-7p. As Beth and Brian have both said, "It is really great". Also men, if you want to play softball....sign ups are in the gym, $50.00, deadline April 1. I think typically the games are on Monday nights. Another opportunity to think about, which you may or may not know about. We have a prayer room ministry, called In Prayer. There is a room in the church that has prayer request cards filed alphabetically. We have people that sign up to come and pray in 30 minute time frames each week. Jeff has been a participant in the prayer ministry for a long time. If you have never done this, I encourage you to try it. It is 30 minutes and it will bless you. If you have a prayer request call the prayer room and leave a message at 824-0001 x.27 or fill out a prayer card located in all the literature racks and either put it in the offering plate on Sunday, put it in the prayer ministry mailbox in the mailroom, give it to a deacon, church leader or staff member and they can get it to the prayer room. You will be prayed for continually and also sometimes receive a note of encouragement from those that are praying for you. Watch for it at the ministry fair, which is Sunday, April 20, to sign up for a test run.
This is long enough. Hopefully these will be more frequent since it is easier. Any comments or suggestions, let me know. Don't forget to answer the poll questions, it too is anonymous. Love that! Hope you guys have a great rest of the week and weekend. See you on Sunday at 9am.
love, wendy
Have you guys checked out the leavingegypt.com site yet? No excuses, there is a link at the bottom of the page. Check out the "share something" part and share something. I promise it is completely anonymous. How many of you have found yourself in a place that you feel that you will never overcome? It could be an addiction to something, it could be gossip, it could be not able to commit to a quiet time... whatever makes you feel powerless...Then this leads to discouragement. This is the enemies greatest weapon "discouragement". I have started to realize that there are people that just discourage me. Do you find this? I think that I am to minimize these people in my life. I know that there are these people all around and I cannot avoid them all....but I can make sure I add those people that encourage me and build me up each day too. It is important that I consciously balance this in my life. It is something I have realized just this week. Try it, let me know how it goes.
We have Easter coming up. I want to encourage you about this Good Friday service at 7p, entitled "Seven", you will not want to miss it. Mandy has helped to organize the visual and dramatic aspect of it. Mark and Ben are participating as well. Matt has written it. It will be an unforgettable night. There will be childcare for preschoolers. Drop off your preschooler at the preschool hall and then drive to the worship center entrance and enter this way, no questions, just do it. Ha! Invite someone to come, again, no pressure if they don't, let the Holy Spirit work that one out.
Also, those of you that have not gone through LifeJourney...the next step, try to make this a point in April. It is the second Sunday from 4-7p. As Beth and Brian have both said, "It is really great". Also men, if you want to play softball....sign ups are in the gym, $50.00, deadline April 1. I think typically the games are on Monday nights. Another opportunity to think about, which you may or may not know about. We have a prayer room ministry, called In Prayer. There is a room in the church that has prayer request cards filed alphabetically. We have people that sign up to come and pray in 30 minute time frames each week. Jeff has been a participant in the prayer ministry for a long time. If you have never done this, I encourage you to try it. It is 30 minutes and it will bless you. If you have a prayer request call the prayer room and leave a message at 824-0001 x.27 or fill out a prayer card located in all the literature racks and either put it in the offering plate on Sunday, put it in the prayer ministry mailbox in the mailroom, give it to a deacon, church leader or staff member and they can get it to the prayer room. You will be prayed for continually and also sometimes receive a note of encouragement from those that are praying for you. Watch for it at the ministry fair, which is Sunday, April 20, to sign up for a test run.
This is long enough. Hopefully these will be more frequent since it is easier. Any comments or suggestions, let me know. Don't forget to answer the poll questions, it too is anonymous. Love that! Hope you guys have a great rest of the week and weekend. See you on Sunday at 9am.
love, wendy
WOW!
Hey guys! Can you believe it? It has happened! We a have a blog page! Hopefully this will be helpful as we move ahead to keep everyone informed. Thanks to Leslie Hartman our "bed rest queen" who set us up with this great site. Anyone interested in participating in this site, email me your email address and I will add you. I am really excited about this!
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