His Law is Love and His Gospel is Peace

I love this time of the year!  One of my favorite things is singing Christmas music.  I think it is great that we have special music set aside for this amazing time of remembrance.  During this holiday season, I have been stuck by one song particularly.  It is the hymn "O Holy Night".  It is not a new song to me; it is just that God has really laid a line of it on my heart:  His law is love and His gospel is peace.  How often do we try to fill our lives up with rules and regulations to following Christ.  How often do we try to add to the gospel.  God loved us so much that He gave Himself so that we could know peace.  It's that simple!  I just want to pause and praise HIM for that!  The baby in the manger is love and His gospel is peace.  Let us not try to add to that; let us put away trying to earn our salvation or work towards some sort of "favor".  May you experience God in a new way this season by resting in His truth and learning to simply walk in His grace.     

O  Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
O'er the world a star is sweetly gleaming,
Now come the wisemen from out of the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

Relationships

For a little over 7 years now, the Father has had me on a journey of showing me what healthy relationships should look like.  That is not to say that now all of my relationships are perfect, nor am I saying that I can look at people and like Dr. Phil tell them how to fix their relationships.  Remember, you just read that I am on a JOURNEY.  Relationships are complicated to say the least!  Last year, I walked through a very difficult time in setting boundaries, learning what manipulation looks like, and even learning how in love to end a relationship.  On the other hand, throughout the past 7 years, the Father has been teaching me a lot about what forgiveness and restoration should truly look like, and what it means to walk and see in the Spirit.  Well, just when you think: "Okay, God; thank you for the lessons.  I can take it from here..."  Our family was thrown back into the hands of all of our American relationships and is preparing us to go to another country and start new relationships!  That might sound really negative.  I don't mean it to be.  We have had a wonderful time seeing family, dear friends, supporters, and building new relationships as we travel.  We have been truly blessed in what is really a "short time" in the US to see so many people that are so very precious to us.  But, like in all things, God has something He is trying to show us, and like in all things, I believe that He is looking to see if we have learned and will apply the things He has taught. (the easy and the hard!)  I am not sure how I am doing.  In many ways, it has been a challenge.  I confess I have been (and am) struggling.  Please don't read that I am feeling "wronged" and don't know how to confront or "deal".  In most cases, I am asking myself how I can be a better friend, sister, daughter, cousin, church member, etc.  One of the hard facts of life is that a person can only do so many things well.  I think I have been carrying so much guilt when I see someone again that I haven't spoken to in years. I remember how special a person they are, and my immediate desire is to try to think of how I can be a better person in the relationship.  The hard thing is learning that God has us in different types of relationships in different seasons of our lives.  Not all people will be "bosom friends" as Anne Shirley would say.  We need all "levels" (if you will) of relationships.  I think the difficulty comes when a person changes levels...whether that is in or out of closeness to you.  God keeps giving me the verse in Galatians that says, "so then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..." (6:10a)  Right now, I am asking myself how I can "do good" in each of my relationships for this season right now.  Sometimes, (and I really hate it!)  it means having tough conversations or worse discerning that no good could come from talking and that person really needs to have broad boundaries in my life.  Sometimes, (thankfully!) it means just spending time and sharing how much they means to me.  1 Thessalonians 5:11 reminds me,  "So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing."  So as we count down our time in the America and prepare to embark on new relationship building overseas,  I am thanking the Father for all that He has brought me through and all that He is continuing to teach me.  May I continue to work towards healthy relationships that bring glory to Him. AT

 

Picture:  I had to post a picture of my best friends from high-school.  These two women are so precious to me.  I am truly thankful for them in my life. 

In the World but NOT of the World

I know that the 31st of October is met each year with mixed feelings.  Some love the time to remember the passing of Saints and those that have given their lives for the spread of the gospel...while others find it hard to get over how the world today focuses so much on evil and death.  This year I walked down both paths.  In mid-October, Matt and I were privileged with being sent on a marriage enrichment weekend.  We traveled to Denver for a 4 day weekend.  It was my first time in Colorado and my first time to see the beautiful Rocky Mountains.  We had a wonderful get-a-way, but I confess it was somewhat tainted by what we believe to be a very scary movement among the youth of America.  We happened to be staying right in the heart of downtown at the gathering point of the largest "Zombie Walk" in the U.S.  The event was "to collect food for the homeless".  To their credit it did look as if a great many can-goods and non-perishables were donated.  However, the "festivities" were really nothing more than an excuse to embrace evil and dwell on death.  Thousands gathered to act-out a "dooms-day" type scenario where zombies were trying to take over the world and space-age police were attempting to kill them in order to save mankind.  Sadly, the zombies won because so many desired to come dressed as the dead rather than as the heroes.  Not knowing how large the event was to be, Matt and I attempted to go out for lunch.  We quickly found ourselves surrounded by the crowds decked-out in all manner of costume depicting grotesque forms of death and suffering.  Were I a stronger person, I suppose it would have been a great opportunity to street witness and try to offer hope; however, in that moment I only wanted to escape.  I was so overwhelmed by the presence of evil.  Matt and I retreated to our hotel room and watched in sickening disbelief as the crowds grew and grew and the people reviled in the victory of the dead.    Ephesians 5:7-12 says, "Don't participate in the things these people do. For though your hearts were once full of darkness, now you are full of light from the Lord, and your behavior should show it! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.  Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, rebuke and expose them. It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret."  These verses kept ringing in my ears as I tried to pray for the people of Denver.  I know that the Bible also says, "become all things to all men so that by all possible means we might save some?" 1 Corinthians 9:22 However, in this case, I do not believe that participation would have brought people to a saving knowledge of Christ.  Deuteronomy 18:10-12 clearly says,  "For example, never sacrifice your son or daughter as a burnt offering. And do not let your people practice fortune-telling or sorcery, or allow them to interpret omens, or engage in witchcraft, or cast spells, or function as mediums or psychics, or call forth the spirits of the dead. Anyone who does these things is an object of horror and disgust to the Lord."  I believe that we must be very careful in how we are attempting to be salt and light in our communities.  On the flip side, our family traveled to a small town in Mississippi for a week at the end of October.  The town hosted a "fall festival" of sorts.  The kids walked the streets to "trick-or-treat"; visit with neighbors and make the community aware of events and socials.  They gave out candy to the children's hospital and at the "orphan" home.  As we traveled around, we shook the hands of the Baptist pastor, the Methodist minister, the Mayor and countless doctors, teachers and local public servants & businessmen.  It was truly a time of bonding and ministering to each other.  To have "retreated" to our "hotel" and not particate would have been the missing of an opportunity to show love and compassion.  I believe this is what the Bible means when is says in Matthew 5:14-16 "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do men light a lamp, and put it under the peck-measure, but on the lampstand; and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."  The question always comes down to, "Who is getting the glory from your actions?"  In all things, may we be glorifing the Father.  "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen."   Romans 11:36      AT

Boldly Going!!

In my last post, I left the question, "How boldly am I entering the Throne Room?" unanswered.  Why?  Well, to be honest, mostly because I have been highly convicted in this area.  I so desperately want a powerful prayer life, but like countless other things (healthy eating habits, a consistent exercise plan, writing letters/notes) it takes a lot of WORK and purposeful planning!  Stephen Olford says, "I would venture to aver that prayerlessness is the most evident and endemic sin in our religious life."  I would agree with that statement in my own life.  Yes, I spend time in the Word daily.  I even spend time praying, but Hebrews 7:25 says that Jesus "lives to make intercession."  If I am to strive to be more like Christ, than I need to be developing a more passionate and active prayer life.  If we study, the life of Christ, He was always in prayer.  The greater the task before Him, the more intently He prayed.  Tom Elliff in his book  A Passion for Prayer says, "The command to pray is not in question.  God's Word abounds with commands, examples, promises and encouragements to pray.  What is missing is the obedient, heaven-bending, hell-binding practice of prayer."  Wow - talk about my lack of faith hitting me square between the eyes!  Where is my obedience?  Do I believe that my prayers can bend heaven and bind hell?  If I do, then where is my practice?  If I am not practicing my beliefs, it must mean that I have a faith issue.  So, it brings me back to my question - How boldly am I entering the Throne Room? --- Not boldly enough!!

 

^"14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, ¹⁵ from whom ^[l]every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, ¹⁶ that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, ¹⁷ so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, ¹⁸ may be able to comprehend with all the ^[m]saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, ¹⁹ and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. ²⁰ Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, ²¹ to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations ^[n]forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:14-20

 

^"14This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. ¹⁵And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him." 1 John 5:14-17

May we be emboldened today to step out in faith and powerfully pray!  AT    

Pictures:   The chair at the top was where I was able to spend time with the Lord on our family vacation.  The picture at the bottom was my breathtaking view.  God is AMAZING! 

 

The Writting on the Wall

As we have been praying about our up-coming move, I confess I have been asking the Lord to give us a clear sign that we are indeed going to the place He has hand picked for us.  I would love to wake up one morning or look up from my time in prayer and see our new country name written on the wall or scrolling across my computer.  The Father was so very specific 5 years ago that we were to go to Turkey.  I know He will be specific again; it's the waiting that is hard. 

Last week, I was reading the account in the book of Daniel of when a hand appeared before King Belshazzar and wrote in a special cryptic language a warning on the wall.  The prophet Daniel was called upon to interpret the message.  It occurred to me during my reading what great courage it took for Daniel to go before the king.  Yes, this was not his first time to deliver a message from the Lord; however, in that time of history to go before a ruler was often a matter of life or death.  It took great faith for Daniel to even enter the throne room (banquet hall).  It makes me ask 2 questions: 1) How boldly am I entering THE Throne Room? and 2) Am I able to interpret His message? 

I'll address the second question first.  Learning to speak someone's language is challenging.  I am not talking about a "foreign" language - although that's hard.  I'm talking about knowing someone well enough to understand how they communicate.  After 15 years of marriage, Matt and I are learning what it takes to communicate well.  We all have our crazy quirks when it comes to life's messages.  If I ask, "Does this look good on me?"  Matt knows that to give a positive reply without a good look will most certainly aggravate me.  He also knows that to hesitate and stare too long at me will be interpreted as, "no the outfit is not for you!"  (First immediate impressions are important with clothes!)    On the flip side, I know that when Matt calls to ask if he needs to do anything on the way home, he wants the answer to that question and nothing else.  He is not being rude.  He will say he missed me and ask me about my day later.  He just needs to know if he has tasks that need to be accomplished.  How do we figure these things out in relationships?  TIME!  and a lot of asking for FORGIVENESS!   I know that my God speaks to me.  The question really is, do I know HIM well enough that I speak His language!  I think sometimes the writing really is already on the wall.  We simple don't know how to read it.

How can we be confident that we know when the Lord is speaking?  Experience.  As we learn to listen and respond to Him, it becomes easier and easier to interpret His messages.  I think this was the case with Daniel.  He did not know what was written on the wall.  He simply went to the banquet hall to read the message.  He knew that if the message was from the Lord, he could read it.  Why did he know this.  He had a relationship and a life time of walking daily with the King of Kings.  If I want to know when the Lord is speaking to me, I am going to have to choose to spend time with Him often...not just when I need an answer! 

I know He has a perfect plan for our family.  I know that He still works miracles and still writes on the wall.  AT         

Ex-Pat does not Equal Extrovert!

One of the things that I have found especially challenging about living overseas is the fact that I am by God's design an introvert.  I think most people assume that because I have surrendered to following God's calling overseas it means that I am an extrovert.  Well, I am NOT!!  In fact, the last three years have stretched me more than I can even express.  It is totally out of my comfort zone to: make new relationships; make a fool of myself speaking in a foreign language; have people stare at me constantly; have people ask me questions about everything in my life; and the list goes on and on!!  Recently, a friend of mine posted The 12 rules for Introverts list on Facebook.  I can totally relate to all of them, and at the same time, I can give you countless examples of times when I have been forced to live outside of my natural personality and embrace the life of an extrovert.  Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."    I know that the Father is working the extrovert experiences I have had for my good.  He is growing me for His glory.  However, I confess, it has really stressed me at times.  Also, this life calling doesn't stop when we return to the U.S.  I freely admit I am VERY nervous about the coming months.  We are going to be traveling and sharing non-stop.  Although I am very passionate about all that the Father is doing overseas, I am still apprehensive about being so open with so many.  Please remember me (and William) in the coming months.  May we be emboldened for Him.  May we learn to rely on His strength and trust Him that He has plans for Introverts living in an Extrovert world!  AT   

All I Want To Do

It has now been 8 weeks since we left Turkey.  Yes, it has been wonderful to be with family and friends, but I confess, I am already longing to be back overseas.  I am daily seeking His direction, but my heart is hurting to be back with the people and culture I have grown to love.  I know in so many ways this is yet another example in my life of trying to be in control and not being content with where the Father has me.  Why do I keep taking my life back into my own hands? I read a quote recently that said "It's only when you are tested that you truly discover who you are.  And it's only when you're tested that you discover who you can be." (author unknown)  1 Peter 5:10 says, "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you."  James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."  I know my battle is between what I know in my head and what I often feel in my heart.  For the most part, I am a rational person that is not swayed in my life's walk just because of my emotions, but well, I ammmmmm still a girl.  Sometimes I let my emotions get the better of me.  I know that God has a perfect plan for me/my family.  I know that He desires to use this time to stretch and grow me.  I know that I can rest in His promises and the sovereignty of His scripture.  I am asking today that my emotions/feelings get in alignment with His truth.  My heart song to the Father today is "All I want to do is give this life to you." (Ginny Owens "All I Want To Do")  Whatever He has for me next, may I be completely surrendered.  AT

Picking Up A Pole!

Matt is spending a great deal of his time right now frantically reading and writing papers.  He had hoped to finish all of his work before coming State side, but, as you know by now, that choice was taken out of our hands.  SO, I would like to take the first part of this post to publicly thank him for all of his hard work for our family.  I am so proud of his dedication and ability to juggle so many responsibilities with integrity and love.  One of the books that Matt has been reading is, Tentmaking.  In this book, George Verwer is quoted as saying, "Most churches are keepers of the aquarium, not fishers of men."  Wow, that is quite a convicting statement.  We have now been in Texas over a month.  How many times have I shared the gospel?  What are my intentions over the next 5 months for sharing the gospel?  Yes, my "job" during my State Side Assignment is to encourage the church and share what the Father is doing around the world.  However, when should I ever put personal evangelism aside?  Yes, I want to encourage Believers to get involved around the world, but this statement is a good reminder that we all need to be actively engaging the "un-reached" right in our neighborhoods.  May we not be caught simply cleaning our own aquariums....may we be always working to add to the tank!!  AT 

Pursuing HIM

It has been a joy re-connecting with family, friends and U.S. culture (and food!) over the last few weeks.  I feel blessed to have so many people in my life that love me unconditionally.  My heart has been encouraged.  Now that the initial "welcome home" meetings are over, many are beginning to ask - "What's next?"  This is a great question, and I truly, TRULY wish I had the answer.  I know that God will reveal His will in His perfect timing, so for now we are simply spending each day pursuing Him.  Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart" Psalm 9:10 says, "Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you."  Deuteronomy 4:29 says, "But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul."  These are the verses that we are hiding in our hearts and claiming as promises today.  We know that in proclaiming His goodness and trusting in His plan, we will always be in His perfect will for our lives. Matt often quotes his childhood pastor by claiming,  "We cannot possess what we do not pursue!".  Meaning in this situation: We desire to possess the knowledge of which country God has for us; therefore, if we actively pursue this knowledge, we can trust that He will reveal it to us.  Several years ago, I watched for the first time the Will Smith movie, The Pursuit of HAPPYness.  Although, some would claim that the emphasis of this film is on materialism and finding a "place in society".  At this time in my life, I am choosing to be encouraged through this movie to "not give up" despite life's circumstances.  I pray that if you are facing a time in your life when you are either not seeing God move or questioning His plans for you, that you will be encouraged today to continue seeking Him.  Keep Pursing!  AT  

Freedom in HIM

This year the 4th of July was celebrated, quite unexpectedly, with our feet on American soil.  Yes, we were planning to return to the U.S. this fall for a 4 month Stateside assignment; however, on June 29th at 5:30 pm we received word that we needed to be out of country no later than the Wednesday of the coming week. (Independence Day!)  This left us 4 days to pack our entire house; get our affairs in order (not knowing if we would ever be able to return); prepare to be in the U.S. at least 6 months; prepare to possibly go to a temporary country after that; and begin thinking about the possibility of needing to move on to another country of service.   No, we were not totally taken off guard.  There have been some surrounding circumstances, but the weight of it all was/is still hard to stand up under at times.  We cried a lot, stared blankly into bare rooms as things were packed, laughed at our crazy packing methods; and of course, did a lot of praying that the Father would give us wisdom and strength.  I am sure we will spend the next couple of months over eating; re-connecting with friends; loving on family; and prayerfully processing much of what we have been through.  Yes, our "rights" have been taken in Turkey, but we are trusting the Father to lead us over the next 6 months in the U.S. and remind us of the wonderful freedom we have in HIM.  We really desire to connect with all of you.  Please feel free to contact us.  We are happy to plan times to meet with you personally as well as share with your small groups and/or churches.  AT

Godly Hoping OR Standing on Faith

Last Saturday, we drove an hour north up to the Black Sea to spend a day at the beach.  Besides a little over exposure to the sun, (I am SOOO white...well, now red!) it was a wonderful day.  On the drive up, we passed several rode-side-stands selling towels, mats and various beach items.  We decided to stop and buy the kids some blow-up tubes.  I am so glad we did - it was the hit of the day!!  The kids thoroughly enjoyed floating along without a care in the world.  Oh, to be a kid again...carefree!  I, on the other hand, spent a good deal of the day walking along the beach making sure that the current was simply taking them down the shoreline and not out to the deep, a shark was not stalking them, their tubes didn't pop, etc., etc.  You see I had "cares"!  However, as I watched the kids laughing, giggling, splashing and playing, I was struck with how important faith is.  How I need to surrender my "cares" into His most capable hands.  William and Grace had complete faith in their situation.  Did they fully understand the dangers of the undertow or other such things - no!  Did they need to - no!  It is enough that their father said, "Go and do this thing."  I so desire to float along in faith just like that.  Sadly, I often spend way too much time checking the tide and asking multiple times if my Father really does want me to "go and do this thing".  I feel myself acting like the  Disney elephant character, Tantor, from the 1999 Tarzan movie =  "Are you sure this water's sanitary? It looks questionable to me!"   I so wish I would instead stand boldly like David when hearing of the giant Goliath taunting the army of God. =  “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” (1 Sam. 17:37)  I know that I can only stand on faith when I have hidden the Word of God in my heart and have faith in my relationship with Him.  That means fully surrendering control to HIM.  It will be at that time that I can boldly say, "for the battle is the Lord’s"! (1 Sam. 17:47)  David was still just a shepard boy, but how had he spent his time in the fields?  He spent it worshiping and drawing near to the Father.  It was because of this relationship that he had faith that God's will for his life was enough.  Live or Die - let God decide.  It always gets my blood pumping when I read, "David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine." (1 Sam. 17:48)  David didn't wait and check the sky for the right conditions; check the grass for obstacles; ask God for a set course of action, etc. David took what he had and knew how to use and charged forward!  I love how the Living Bible records the next two verses:  Deuteronomy 31:6, "Be strong!  Be courageous!  Do not be afraid of them!  For the Lord your God will be with you.  He will neither fail you nor forsake you."  John 14:27, "I am leaving you with a gift -  peace of mind and heart!  And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives.  So don't be troubled or afraid."  We CAN "float along carefree"!!  Why? Because:  He will keep His promises; He is in control; and HE loves us more than we can ever imagine! Floating Away Today - AT

Whatever it takes to see people come to HIM!

The above cartoon was posted on Facebook by a national friend of mine.  She is a follower of Christ, but continues to wear a head cover in most situations. Isn't it amazing how different we all view issues such as modesty, respect and oppression?  If I had to guess, most of us reviewing this "comic" would put ourselves somewhere in the middle.  I know it might be easy for us to "camp out" on the "male-dominated culture" part of the statement, and I do have my opinions on a woman's place in the world and home, but I'll save that for another post.  The question that keeps playing in my mind right now is:  "What should my dress look like in order to be a witness in the culture in which I live?"  Obviously, I do not want to compromise my own beliefs and convictions (whether that be to dress extremely modest or to walk in "freedom"), but let's look at what 1 Corinthians 9:22 says, "To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some."  So, how do I reconcile how I prefer to dress while ministering in a culture that requires a different style.  Life is ministry remember - we are all bond-servants! Women working with youth might dress very differently than women working in a women's ministry.  I believe this concept looks very different around the globe.  I have several friends living in the Middle East & all over Central Asia, and they fully cover like the woman on the right.  It is very difficult for American women living abroad to not be viewed in a negative light.  The lack of morals and ungodly behavior that people see in "American TV and films" is what locals believe is acceptable to all Americans.  This makes ministry very difficult.  An American woman is viewed as guilty of immorality until she proves herself to be pure.  I realize that in America today "covering" is most associated with Islamic beliefs, but the reality is that it has only been in the last 50-70 years that American women did not cover when going outside their home.  Yes, it looked a little different in history over the years, but "propriety and modesty" were the driving factors in being covered.  On the other side, I also have several friends working in the jungles of Africa and South America.  If they were to dress like the woman on the right, they would likely scare the natives away!!  They might think a "spirit" had come to live among them!!  Funny, but still true given native beliefs and cultures.  My friends in these cultures have to dress comfortable and more "informal".  Later in Corinthians, Paul writes "Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God; [in other words, adapt as much as you can in non-sinful ways] just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of the many, that they may be saved. [That's the same as 9:22.] Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ."  I think the key words here for us to take away are "all to the glory of God".  May everything we do, even down to how we dress, be for HIS glory and use, and may we seek to understand why a woman chooses to dress in a certain manner before we judge.  AT              

Blessed Assurance

Assurance - What is it, and what does it look like?  On my online dictionary, the first definition of assurance is "a statement or indication that inspires confidence; a guarantee or pledge".  How many times has a statement inspired, but later didn't really hold up.  "This product is so amazing everyone can find a use for it.  It will sell itself".  If that had been a sure thing, there wouldn't be 50  of them still in the back of the closet.  I guarantee you that if you will take this new diet product you will loose weight.  Eat what you want + No exercise = additional pounds GAINED and $100s gone.  I pledge to you until "death do us part".  The divorce rate among Christians is the same as non-Christians.  Okay, so the first definition doesn't really hold up.  Let's look at the second definition. "freedom from doubt; self-confidence."  What can I be totally confident in my self for?  I'm wise with money, but I make mistakes.  I was a good driver...never been given a ticket, but I haven't driven in over 3 years!  I love me kids, but maybe they don't receive all I do as love.  Am I a good wife, friend, sister, daughter?  Maybe, but am I good enough?  I doubt it; there will always be something I could do to be better.  Therefore, this definition leaves something lacking as well!  SO, what can I have assurance in?  Most of the time I can rest assured that if I put my clothes in the washer they will come out clean...that is if I have water and if the electricity stays on.  If I take the 11üs bus, I will arrive at Matt's office...that is if one will come by my bus stop. If I want to call my mom, I know I can simply use MajicJack....that is if the Internet is working.  Yes, I think you know where I am going with this now.  The examples can go on and on.  I cannot think of any earthly thing on which to place my assurance.  I am so thankful that the Bible says, "When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul." Psalm 94:19  God is always there; He keeps His promises even when we don't; If we have a relationship with His son, we can be saved!  These are things that we can have assurance in.  Last month, I went over to my Turkish mom's house for Mother's Day.  She had her sister visiting.  "D" is over 80 and very ill.  She has had 3 strokes; she has diabetes; she has had a stint put in her heart....and the list goes on.  "D" is staying with my "mom" so that she can get therapy in-order to regain the use of her right side.  She is making great progress, but realizes that "it could just happen again."  She has no assurance in having good health again.  She told me that she was happy to have the strength to do "namaz".  (Islamic prayers - you have to kneel a special way.)  She admittedly has no assurance; however, that what she does with her life will be "enough" to guarantee eternity in paradise.  As best I could, with respect and love, I shared about my assurance and how happy I was that life in paradise did not depend on me.  She was so glad for me.  She even said that I was such a "good lady, wife and mom that she knew what I said was right.  She wished it could be so for her."  Again, I tried to tell her that Christ desires a relationship with all peoples.  Sadly, she just smiled and said, "İnşallah" (If God wills it to be so.)  That evening, watching her sleep on the couch in the living room was almost more than I could bare.  Many times I had to choke back tears before talking to the others in the room.  I wanted to say more....I needed to say more.  I so desperately wanted to give this precious women some assurance, but I could not.  Assurance only comes through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  

Romans 10:9-10, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."
John 3:15-16, "That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Romans 4:5, "But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."
John 10:28, "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."
Ephesians 2:8-10, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
1 John 5:13, "These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. "    And, of course, these are not the only verses in scripture that give us hope and assurance.  God's promises go on and on.  I pray that I am given another opportunity to share with "D".  Even more than me, I know God desperately wants to give her rest and assurance in a relationship with Himself.  Please join me in prayer, that her eyes will be open and her heart receptive to His truth.  Also, if there is anyone reading this blog that has questions or is unsure how to have assurance in Christ, you are welcome to contact me.  His love and assurance is for all.  AT

Not Counting Just Trusting

Why would God put the"Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil" in the Garden of Eden if He didn't want man to eat from it?   I am sure many people have asked that question right along with me. From the beginning, God allowed man to have the will to choose.  I believe the tree was there for many reasons - one of them being to teach man to trust.  I believe this is a lesson that from the onset of our relationship with the Father, He desires to work in our hearts.  He wants to stretch and grow us in our ability and will to put our whole faith in Him.  In 2003, I was undertaking a seven year Bible program.  That year, we were studying Israel and the Minor Prophets.  At that same time, Grace was an infant, and I was diligently trying to keep up a milk supply for nursing.  I had extreme hormone issues, and this was proving to be a very difficult task.  I used a pump to provide extra stimulation for milk production 3 to 5 times a day.  Grace was thriving, but I was becoming very discouraged.  I would often go to our deep freeze and count how many bags of milk were there. (great bi-product of pumping!)  I would then add up how many days I could give Grace breast milk before having to switch her to something else.  In the midst of this ritualistic exhaustion, one week in class, we studied about the time that David was instructed to NOT take a census in Israel.  He was to simply trust that the Father would provide the manpower he needed to be a successful ruler.  Despite God's instructions, 1 Chronicles 21:1 records  "Then Satan stood up against Israel and moved David to number Israel."  Why did David fall to temptation in this?  Why was he not obedient to the Lord's will?  I believe it was a trust issue.  David was in charge - or so he thought - he felt he needed to be prepared for what was ahead.  The Father began to work in my heart, and in a dream revealed to me that I was acting just as David had.  I believed I was the "ruler" or in control of my milk production.  I was allowing Satan to destroy my special time as a mom; make me weary from doubt; and allow me to believe that I was Grace's provider.  God stictly forbade me from counting milk from that day forward.  I was to put the bags in the freezer and forget them.  I had no idea what a challenge that was going to be.  At that time, Grace was 4 months old.  Two months later I found out I was expecting again.  My hormones were raging and I wanted to count how much milk I had so I could stop nursing Grace and rest.  Again in a dream, I was told to keep pushing forward and to trust.  Two months later I lost that child.  I was so hurt.  I know that sounds crazy, but if you knew Matt and my whole story you would understand how desperately we wanted children.  Even with two in our arms the loss of yet another child was devastating.  I was also hormonally all over the page.  However, God gave me two instructions: continue and trust.   Two months later when Grace was 10 months old, I totally dried-up on one side.  Again, the temptation to count what was in the freezer was so overwhelming....BUT I had come so far!  The one year marker that the Father had promised me was in sight.  For the next two months, we continued with only one side producing milk.  The day of Grace's first birthday I was emotionally all over the place - again, it could just have been hormones!  ; )  I was sad to think that this time was ending.  I knew (although not yet fully) that Grace was to be my last biological child.  I was grateful, amazed and overwhelmed to see all that the Father had brought us through.  I was also extremely curious as to how much milk was in that freezer!  I guess just like Adam and Eve I wondered what could really happen from just one count.  Just like David, I thought that I had won so many battles.  Was I not in control yet?  Without asking God, I counted and I added up how many weeks/months Grace was going to continue to be able to have good breast milk.  (Pride goes before a fall!!!!)  I weaned Grace over the next few weeks and began to give her breast milk in a cup.  She totally rejected it!  Then I began to notice that after I made her drink it, her diapers were foul and she had terrible indigestion.  OH GREAT!  What was I to do with a freezer full of milk?  I knew it was from my own foolishness.  I asked for forgiveness, which of course was given, but there are always consequences to sin.  The milk was not "mine" any more.  What was I to do with it?  I began praying.  A few days later, I was talking with a friend of mine on the phone.  She was having extremely painful back issues and needed to take special medication.  By taking this medicine she was unable to nurse her infant.  She was pumping in order to keep a supply, but was having to pour her milk down the sink. (HOW AWFUL!)  Immediately, I knew what I was to do - Give her the milk.  I was so grateful that the Father allowed me to do this.  (I could have just had to put it in the trash!)  HE knows our sins and our weaknesses and yet He chooses to use and bless us anyway!  SO, you might be asking: Why is Amy writing about something from so many years ago?  Well, I have been caught counting again!  Not breast milk this time...but days.  With our current visa situation still up in the air and July being our 3 year anniversary overseas, I have been playing the "what if" game and counting days and months.  IF this happens, we can do THIS.  IF that happens, we could do THAT.  What I have really been doing is NOT trusting!  God still has a perfect plan!!  He knows how many days we have left in Turkey.  What Satan wants is to steal my joy, take away my ability to minister and rob me from the privilege of serving.  I know God desires that I have faith that HIS ways are perfect.  All things will work together in HIS time and for HIS glory.  I am not to count!  Please pray for me as I walk this journey again.  May it be one this time that pleases HIM.  AT                 

Life is wonderfully knitted together

Shortly after moving to Turkey, a local family adopted us.  I have written about them many times over the years.  We love them dearly.  One of the things that my local "grandma" was determined to teach me was handiwork. She wanted to begin with crochet.  I am not sure how many hours we sat side-by-side with her giving instructions and me helplessly fouling it up, but eventually she got "fed-up".  She took the hook from my hand, threw it on the table and said that I would not learn.  I am sure that my eyes were as big as saucers.  I know they were ready to spill over with tears.  I was already struggling with language, culture, food and relationships...was I to fail at this, too!!  She must have seen my shock and forthcoming tears because she quickly smiled and grabbed up the knitting needles.  Believe me I took them with trembling hands and lots of prayer!  "Please God, HELP!!  I need to learn this.  I need to succeed at something!!"  After several more hours of instruction...and I believe many huffs and eye rolling...I was slowly knitting.  (and I mean sllllloooooowwwwwlllly)  When I left her house that evening, I was determined to go home and continue working.  Over the next few days, I made something that could resemble a pot holder.  It had many holes from missed stitches, but I did it!!  Success!!!  After that, I moved on to scarves, hats, socks, ponchos and I am working on my first sweater.  I have never been "crafty"; that's my mom's department; but this is fun...even therapeutic.  It has been nice to be able to have something in my hands while I listen to children read and while I am helping with lessons or watching TV.  I have always had a hard time with these particular activities because I hate being still.  However, I think the thing that I love the best about this craft is the time I am able to spend in prayer.  I have several family members and friends in the States that I decided to pray for as I do certain tasks.  As I do normal tasks throughout the day, I have set certain activities as prompts to pray for particular individuals.  I decided to do that with knitting as well.  I have a friend that I pray for every time I knit.  I also pray for the person for whom I am knitting.  In previous posts, I have been writing about how the Father is teaching me to worship and praise Him.  I am amazed at how He so desires to work in our lives through everything that we are doing.  Recently in my knitting, I have been having beautiful (yet sometimes difficult...but clear) visions and sweet words from the Father.  He truly has a perfect plan for our lives.  He has knitted each piece of our lives into perfect order.  Will we be simple pot holders or complicated sweaters?  Will the colors change once, twice, over and over or perhaps never?  Will we see missed stitches when really it was the beginning of a beautiful flower pattern?  We may not know what the end will create, but it will be wonderfully made and precious in His sight.  We simply need to walk with hands and hearts that are stretchable, changeable and moldable for His glory.  AT    

Another School Year Down....

Really, where does the time go?  It is hard to believe that yet another year has passed.  Despite an emotional fall; a middle of the year move; seeing their father put in jail and subsequently deported; and living under the pressure of yet another possible move (this time to a totally different country), the kids did amazingly well in completing 4th and 3rd grades.  I am amazed at how resilient they are!  I have wanted to fall apart for them on many occasions!!  Of course, we still have subjects that are shaky and need firming up this summer/beginning of next year; but, overall, I am amazed.  God is good!!  I am so thankful to be allowed the privilege of being on this journey.  One day at a time, one step at a time, HE gives us exactly what we need.  I confess, at times I "feel sorry" for the kids when I think of all the things that they are "missing"... and the fact that they are stuck with just one teacher who cannot even begin to give them everything they need!!  However, in those moments I am sweetly reminded of the ONE who supplies all of our needs.  The ONE that makes a way.  The ONE that never calls us to a place that HE does not equip us for the life HE has chosen.  Yes, there are areas that my kids if measured would fall short of the mark, but I am walking with confidence in the things that we are all learning along this road that will run far in compensating for anything "missing".    AT

We would truly appreciate your prayers and words of wisdom in this area. Each year is a new challenge, and we really do try to simple sit at the feet of the Father.  However, we know that many of you have training and are gifted in the areas of teaching, education and home schooling.  Please, as you think of us, pass along ideas, tips and helps.  It will be openly received!

Pilgrim's Progress

The Pilgrim's Progress from This World to That Which Is to Come is a Christian allegory written by John Bunyan and published in February, 1678. It is regarded as one of the most significant works of religious English literature. It has been translated into more than 200 languages, and has never been out of print. (Wikipedia)  For the last 2 years we have been using A Beka homeschool materials for Language Arts.  We have truly enjoyed the traditional style and great literature.  The last reader in the 3rd grade program is a version of Pilgrim's Progress.  Having attended public schools, this classic was not something that I read.  I have heard it referred to in sermons and other discussions, but I had not taken the time to read it for myself.  Truthfully, I often get lost in some of the writings of the classics.  John Branyan is a Christian comedian.  He gives a sketch that is hilarious describing our current lack of understanding as well as proper use of the English language.  The Three Little Pigs. After over 8 years of trying to teach language, I can say that it is possible that I am even more confused today! LOL!!  I am; however, grateful that I am experiencing some of the classics on a simple level along side my kids.  Perhaps in the future, I will try to get my hands on the original version, but for now I would like to recommend to anyone who has not read this classic to perhaps try the "readers version".  One of the great things about this book is the questions at the end of the chapters.  They allowed for great discussions of faith and theology for our family.  I was a little worried each year when I started with my 3rd grader.  I wondered if they would not be able to understand the allegory; however, much to my surprise each child put themselves right in the book.  The gospel came alive before their eyes.  Our kids have been highly exposed to the sharing the gospel, but this was a wonderful picture of watching a person travel down the road of salvation.  This would be a great summer read for kids; however, I would suggest perhaps reading as a family or one-on-one so as to allow for questions and discussions.  We can give our kids a lot of things, but pointing them to the gospel and the road of salvation is a must.  Let's do it over, and over and over again in every form possible!!  AT    

Easter 2012

This was a very different Easter for our family.  You can read in past blogs and see how much our family loves crafts, art and sensory lessons for this most important holiday.  It is the highlight of our year.  Most people will not debate the fact the Jesus was born; however choosing to accept HIM as their atonement for sin and way of salvation is another story.  As many of you know, leading up to Easter Matt was detained and deported.  The kids and I were left waiting each day and wondering if we should begin packing to move or would we too be given a suitcase and asked to leave immediately ourselves.  The day that Matt was jailed was to be the start of our "12 days to Easter" focus.  With him gone it just didn't seem right to color eggs, start resurrection projects and "celebrate".  I was torn (having been given the advice by crisis mangers to make things "normal") to just move forward with our activities or simply wait and celebrate later.  In the first few hours of shock, looking for something to unlock my fuzzy brain, I opened my email to find a prayer sent from a dear friend who had experienced a similar situation.  She advised me to just worship.  Prayer would be hard; reading would be even more difficult; just worship.  I immediately closed the computer and sat on the floor.  How could I just worship?  I couldn't breathe; I couldn't process; I couldn't think!  Surprisingly, tears would not come.  I thought I needed a good cry, but I was so encircled by HIS arms that all I could do was begin to praise Him.  The Spirt that lives within me swelled and engulfed my being.  Strength and clarity of mind came in that moment.  The next day I received an email from my sister-in-law with a song by Aaron Keys, Song of Moses.  It became the "theme" song of the next 10 days.  The kids and I put aside "activities" and decided to just worship.  Christ gave up everything for us.  What would we give up?  Would we give up candy and treats?  Would we give up parties and activities?  Would we give up where we live?  Would we give up all of what we own aside from a suitcase?  Would we give up our daddy/husband?  What would we give up to see people have a relationship with the Almighty?  Christ gave up everything!  It is one thing to say it with your lips, but it is entirely different to stare it in the face and commit to turning it over to HIS hands. Wow, what a lesson for the kids - what a lesson for me!!  Yes, our Easter lacked the color, crafts and candy of years past, but praise Him, praise HIM, PRAISE HIM our hearts have been given a precious touch of his longsuffering, love and life!!  AT

PS: Matt was "returned" to us late in the eveing of Good Friday.  The weekend was spent with much rejoicing!!

St. Patrick's Day

I am not sure why I have always really liked this day.  Maybe it is the little bit of Irish blood I have, or perhaps just that I love to celebrate even on "small" holidays.  Our family had a wonderful day remembering the life of St. Patrick and those that have given their lives for the furtherance of the gospel.  Of course, the day had to be all green.  The kids decided to sleep in green pajamas so as to avoid getting pinched first thing in the morning!  Smart - because I would for sure do it, and they know it!!  LOL!  For breakfast we had cinnamon roll pancakes with green icing; lunch I tried to make healthy to redeem all the sugar eaten earlier, so I made a spinach salad served with homemade chips; dinner was a traditional "Shamrock Stew" with "Irish Soda Bread"; snacks in-between included chocolate cupcakes with pistachios, green popcorn and the traditional green jello with fruit salad!  We had a lot of fun with games throughout the day.  We had a treasure hunt, a puzzle to solve and a guess who holds the "true treasure" mystery game.  We also spent time in song, prayer and thanksgiving.  I love taking the small moments and using them to celebrate the One who is worthy of all PRAISE!  AT 

Live it WELL

Matt and I have been looking for new music.  It has almost been 3 years since we left our beautiful home state of Texas.  We truly miss our wonderful worship leaders.  They were always so great to keep worship fresh, moving and alive.  Recently, God has really been laying on my heart the concept of how to live the life that He has called me to well.  Not just live the life, but live it WELL.  What does that look like, and how can I make my time spent in personal worship more fruitful spurring me on to life that is lived "well"?  John 10:10b says, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."  He does not just want to give us life.  When we are born into His Spirit we are given the opportunity to have a life of abundance....a life of well living.  Please don't hear me saying that I am jumping on the "health and wealth" wagon; no my eyes have been open to too many other things over the past few years.  I believe God does heal; He does provide and He does desire to give to us in abundance, but the number one thing He wants to do is receive glory.  How will He receive glory from my life? 1 Chronicles 16:29 says, "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; Bring an offering, and come before Him; Worship the LORD in holy array."  I am discovering that if I am actively seeking to give Him glory, my life will be  well.  You may remember the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul" by Horatio G. Spafford.  If you have time click on the link for the song and history of this beautiful hymn.  I am always moved by people like Mr. Spafford that despite walking through tragedy after tragedy they still remain totally sold -out to serving the Lord and giving Him glory.  Their life is "well" despite deep loss.  They are alive in Christ.  For those of you that are not "hymn" people.  In our looking for new music; we have recently come across some songs of a new and up-in-coming artist.  His name is Hunter Thompson.  I believe this one is written by Matt Stinton and Bethel Music, but Hunter Thompson is performing it here: This is what you do.  Though not as poetic as a hymn,  I am challenged by the simple phrase - "This is what You do; you make me come alive!"  I do desire to be ALIVE in Him and live this life WELL for His glory!!  AT
PS: The boat picture is just one of the cool things we get to see crossing the Bosporus each week.  I put it in this post because of the hymn reference.   

            

New Beginnings

On February 10th, my precious daughter became my sister in Christ. She has questioned and struggled for over 2 years now. It has been difficult to watch. She has at times said, "I am a believer." Then at other times said, "I just don't know God." Being in a believing home that is actively involved in sharing the good news, she of course "knew" all the answers. As she has grown in her understanding, I think it has caused her to question the commitment and confessions of her past. I also believe that out of the 4 of us in our family she struggled the most emotionally living in the east. At times it was a very crushing road for her. One of my favorite parts of my day is reading individually with the kids before their bed time. Grace and I have been reading a book of parables by James Dobson. When we came to the parable of the Wedding Feast, I read the parable and then talked about how God had invited everyone to join Him but that some people chose not to accept the invitation. At this point, Grace began to cry and say that she had not accepted the invitation and did not know God. I asked what she meant and she stated that she had known for a while that there was an emptiness in her but was afraid to tell us because we might be mad that she had been saying for so long that she believed but in fact had not. My heart broke as we discussed that I was not angry and wanted more than anything else in my life for her to know for sure that she had trusted Christ with her eternity. We knelt beside her bed, and she gave her life to Christ. What a weight came off of both my precious girl and her daddy to know for certain that she had entrusted herself to the everlasting arms of the one and only Savior of the universe. The next day, she approached Amy and wanted her to cut bangs from her all one length hair. She wanted a new look on the outside to show some of her new inside. When I came home from work, it was a wonderful surprise. It has been a pleasure to watch her over the last few days. We can all tell quite a difference in her continence. We realize that as she gets older she will go though times of doubt; however, we are confident the Father will work in these times to grow her faith and make her stronger. MT

Let it snow; let it snow; let it snow...

Over the last 8 days the Travis family has seen more snow than ever before in our lifetimes. (well, besides vacation spots) The heavens have simply opened up and dropped inches and inches of beautiful white, dry, fluffy powder. It has been a treat to play in it and allow the Father to endear our hearts to our new home. It is interesting how something so "simple" as weather can remind us of how amazing our God is! In Central Asian culture, it is believed that if you get cold you will become ill. Interestingly enough, from my widows this week I have watched so many people leaving their houses layered-up and bundled for Arctic weather stop and look around them to see if anyone is looking and then take a quick handful of the cold delight and throw it at something. Playing in the snow allows even the most "proper" and "dignified" of people to remember the gaiety of their childhood and feel the purity of creation. I am reminded of the hymn, "In His Time". I love the words to this song: IN HIS TIME, IN HIS TIME; HE MAKES ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL IN HIS TIME; LORD, PLEASE SHOW ME EVERYDAY; AS YOU'RE TEACHING ME YOUR WAY; AND I'LL DO JUST WHAT YOU SAY; IN YOUR TIME. (Verse 2) IN YOUR TIME, IN YOUR TIME; YOU MAKE ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL; IN YOUR TIME; LORD, MY LIFE TO YOU I BRING; MAY EACH SONG I HAVE TO SING; BE TO YOU A LOVELY THING; IN YOUR TIME. Lord, I am asking you today just like the white snow has made everything beautiful that you will bring us to love this new city. Change our hearts to be as pure as the snow in our service and witness to those around us. May the life that we bring to you be a lovely thing in your time. AT