I don't know about you, but I am thankful for the rain. My car is clean, the yellow is gone from the deck, and my grass is growing. My allergies have been such a nuisance lately and it has really left me feeling drained each day. But man, those storms come in and whoooosh, all that nasty pollen is swept away, clear head, open nose, and good rest. So let it rain, let it rain, let it rain! It takes a good storm with strong winds, and hard and heavy rains to effectively clean out the staleness that has accumulated. The winds carry the dust and pollen away, and the rains nourish the soil, trees, plants, and flowers and wash away the bedraggled surfaces.
What a picture of what Christ does for us! We are like the grass and flowers. We are growing, but we sometimes get dry spells. Sin is like that nasty pollen that seems to be on every surface. No matter what we do, it still seems to be wherever we look. Then comes the storm; affliction, hardship, disaster, sorrow, trial. Whatever we call it, it's a storm. The winds kick up, and the rain is so hard it hurts. We take cover. But after we've weathered out the storm, the sky clears, the sun comes out, and there is peace. This is when the new growth begins.
These storms or trials in our lives are ordained by God. They are to clear out that which is sinful or that which is obstructing our spiritual growth. For me, these are the times I come face-to-face with my pride. It's a time of confession and repentance. It is a time to have joy. "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. James 1:2-3 We can take cover from the storm, but we can't hide, but God will comfort us. "who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." II Corinthians 1:4 These hardships are meant for our good, and His glory. They are to make us stronger. "More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us." Romans 5:3-5
So, while it's raining outside, I will read His word and enjoy the "calm" I have inside. Because the next sunny day could bring a storm, and I want to be ready:)
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
What does the Bible say about being green?
Have you ever wondered if being environmentally conscious is biblical? I have. I struggle sometimes as a homeschool mom with the whole, "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle." I am not a tree hugger, but I'm not deliberately wasteful either. (I turn off the water while I'm brushing my teeth. Thank you very much.) I just know that mankind is not going to "save the Earth." II Peter 3:10 states, "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed." God is sovereign. Praise the Lord! So, with all the talk on the news and TV about the myriad of environmental issues; ozone layer, global warming, recycling, toxic levels of fuels from vehicles/factories, etc.. it is necessary for Christians to know exactly what the Bible states about these concerns, how we are to respond to them, and our responsibilities.
In Genesis 2:15, God established man as the care-taker of the earth. "The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it." So what does that mean to us now? The obvious, we mow our lawns, weed (or is it de-weed) our gardens. The not so obvious, we keep our vehicles in good repair so they don't leak fluids or gases. The list goes on.
Moving to Psalm 8:6-8, God states we are to have dominion, or to be stewards of His created world. "You (God) have given him (man) dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the heavens, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas." WE are the managers, or stewards. WE, mankind, are the decision makers, not animals, plants, or vapors in the air. This is a huge responsibility. And when deciding how best to steward God’s resources, we must remember, Colossians 3:23-24, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.” We don’t want man’s praise to influence our decision making, we want God’s glory to define it!
Finally, according to Jesus, in Matthew 20:28, we are servants. “Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve…” and then again in John 13:15, after He had washed the disciples feet…. “For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” We must be willing to serve others with the resources God has entrusted us. Clean up litter off the highway, plant a tree in a park, recycle your Coke cans, or volunteer your time at a local food bank.
Whether you recycle your cans, make your own compost, or carry reusable grocery bags, just remember we are just the caretakers, stewards and servants of God’s creation, not the owners. It all belongs to Him. The best way we can thank Him for the gifts He has allowed us to use it to glorify Him with them.
In Genesis 2:15, God established man as the care-taker of the earth. "The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it." So what does that mean to us now? The obvious, we mow our lawns, weed (or is it de-weed) our gardens. The not so obvious, we keep our vehicles in good repair so they don't leak fluids or gases. The list goes on.
Moving to Psalm 8:6-8, God states we are to have dominion, or to be stewards of His created world. "You (God) have given him (man) dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the heavens, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas." WE are the managers, or stewards. WE, mankind, are the decision makers, not animals, plants, or vapors in the air. This is a huge responsibility. And when deciding how best to steward God’s resources, we must remember, Colossians 3:23-24, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.” We don’t want man’s praise to influence our decision making, we want God’s glory to define it!
Finally, according to Jesus, in Matthew 20:28, we are servants. “Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve…” and then again in John 13:15, after He had washed the disciples feet…. “For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” We must be willing to serve others with the resources God has entrusted us. Clean up litter off the highway, plant a tree in a park, recycle your Coke cans, or volunteer your time at a local food bank.
Whether you recycle your cans, make your own compost, or carry reusable grocery bags, just remember we are just the caretakers, stewards and servants of God’s creation, not the owners. It all belongs to Him. The best way we can thank Him for the gifts He has allowed us to use it to glorify Him with them.
Friday, March 27, 2009
6 Ways to Teach Your Child Responsibility
1. Keep them busy -
You don't want a child to be idle for long. Everyone needs down time, and time to play or rest; but too much idle time leads to laziness. Children like the sense of accomplishment and praise they receive when a chore is completed. Give them regular chores and duties. Praise regularly, and always correct in love. An attitude of willingness with many mistakes is worth much more than perfection with resentment.
2. Teach them to work "smarter" not "harder"
This is where supplying the right tools will benefit greatly. Let them use a canister vacuum to "sweep" the kitchen floor, instead of frustrating them by teaching the proper way to use a broom. Besides, it's fun to watch the dirt get sucked up:) Use glass wipes instead of the spray and paper towels. These little short cuts will go a long way when a child is learning to help and be a responsible member of the family. Don't worry, they will learn how to sweep before they move out of the house.
3. Make checklists
By making a list they can check off as tasks are completed, children can have a visual picture of what is to be done, and what has already been accomplished. This is a great way to develop time management skills for them as well. I make lists all the time, and there are many that remain up (like; all the steps to taking a shower, or how to clean a bathroom properly, etc).
4. Give them a reason
Now, I don't mean we must explain why we expect them to clean their room or any other task we expect of them. I do, however, think we should make sure we point them to Christ every chance we get. Our children should know they were created for the same purpose we were; to glorify God. "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." I Corinthians 10:31. There should be no mistake as to why they do anything and what attitude they should have while doing it. "Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may become blameless and innocent children of God." Philippians 2:14-15a
5. Hold them accountable
Short and brief.....what you expect, you must inspect. Don't tell them to complete a task and never follow up. You will be setting them up for failure. It's like on-the-job training, they must be constantly evaluated until there is mastery.
6. Model it
The best way to teach you children responsibility, is to show them what it looks like every chance you get. When they consistently see you being diligent in your life, they will understand better what is expected of them.
You don't want a child to be idle for long. Everyone needs down time, and time to play or rest; but too much idle time leads to laziness. Children like the sense of accomplishment and praise they receive when a chore is completed. Give them regular chores and duties. Praise regularly, and always correct in love. An attitude of willingness with many mistakes is worth much more than perfection with resentment.
2. Teach them to work "smarter" not "harder"
This is where supplying the right tools will benefit greatly. Let them use a canister vacuum to "sweep" the kitchen floor, instead of frustrating them by teaching the proper way to use a broom. Besides, it's fun to watch the dirt get sucked up:) Use glass wipes instead of the spray and paper towels. These little short cuts will go a long way when a child is learning to help and be a responsible member of the family. Don't worry, they will learn how to sweep before they move out of the house.
3. Make checklists
By making a list they can check off as tasks are completed, children can have a visual picture of what is to be done, and what has already been accomplished. This is a great way to develop time management skills for them as well. I make lists all the time, and there are many that remain up (like; all the steps to taking a shower, or how to clean a bathroom properly, etc).
4. Give them a reason
Now, I don't mean we must explain why we expect them to clean their room or any other task we expect of them. I do, however, think we should make sure we point them to Christ every chance we get. Our children should know they were created for the same purpose we were; to glorify God. "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." I Corinthians 10:31. There should be no mistake as to why they do anything and what attitude they should have while doing it. "Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may become blameless and innocent children of God." Philippians 2:14-15a
5. Hold them accountable
Short and brief.....what you expect, you must inspect. Don't tell them to complete a task and never follow up. You will be setting them up for failure. It's like on-the-job training, they must be constantly evaluated until there is mastery.
6. Model it
The best way to teach you children responsibility, is to show them what it looks like every chance you get. When they consistently see you being diligent in your life, they will understand better what is expected of them.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Movie Night
We watched the movie Bolt with our kids tonight. I love Disney movies; lots of action, good plot, humor for both children and adults, and always a happy ending. One thing I have noticed, however, most of the time, these movies are lacking one thing, a father. There is a mom, but very rarely a dad. And if there is a dad, he's lazy, clueless, or helpless and needs the kids to rescue him. Not exactly the picture God paints in the Bible.
You see, the world wants little girls to know they can do or become anything they want. What a shame it doesn't teach them they are not supposed to be just anything they want. It doesn't tell them the hard truth that they are easily deceived, fragile, and in need of protection. We are not helpless, but fragile. I think of a woman like a fine china cup, and a man like a strong coffee mug. Both are effective and used for the same purpose. But one can take a whole lot more banging around than the other. God designed men and women differently; Equally, but very differently. It is not God's design for a woman to lead a man in a relationship. But instead, it is His design for the wife to submit to the husband. "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church..." Ephesians 5:22-23a Too often, Hollywood portrays the wife as the "smart" and "strong" one in a relationship. She has to figure out or fix all the problems and dilemmas. This is considered normal, and just comes with the territory of being a woman. Plaeeeeeezzzze. Spare me. I am so thankful I don't have to figure it all out. I can mess some stuff up, let me tell you.
Now, before I go on, I know there are single mothers out there, as well as single dads. I believe God equips these special people with what they need to fulfill His purposes. It has to be difficult to play both parenting roles, as well as providing for the family. I think of relatives in my family in this situation, and I stand amazed at how strong they are.
Even being a single mom or dad, you still have the opportunity to teach your children how to submit to authority, or lead a family. Even though both verbs denote action, they are also an attitude of the heart. Submission and authority are responses to an obedient heart, and obedience is a choice.
So, while Hollywood and Pixar continue to keep us entertained, don't miss the chance to use the stories and lives they present to teach the truth to those precious children in your life. The movie may only last an hour and a half, but Lord willing, the lessons will remain a lifetime. "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6
You see, the world wants little girls to know they can do or become anything they want. What a shame it doesn't teach them they are not supposed to be just anything they want. It doesn't tell them the hard truth that they are easily deceived, fragile, and in need of protection. We are not helpless, but fragile. I think of a woman like a fine china cup, and a man like a strong coffee mug. Both are effective and used for the same purpose. But one can take a whole lot more banging around than the other. God designed men and women differently; Equally, but very differently. It is not God's design for a woman to lead a man in a relationship. But instead, it is His design for the wife to submit to the husband. "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church..." Ephesians 5:22-23a Too often, Hollywood portrays the wife as the "smart" and "strong" one in a relationship. She has to figure out or fix all the problems and dilemmas. This is considered normal, and just comes with the territory of being a woman. Plaeeeeeezzzze. Spare me. I am so thankful I don't have to figure it all out. I can mess some stuff up, let me tell you.
Now, before I go on, I know there are single mothers out there, as well as single dads. I believe God equips these special people with what they need to fulfill His purposes. It has to be difficult to play both parenting roles, as well as providing for the family. I think of relatives in my family in this situation, and I stand amazed at how strong they are.
Even being a single mom or dad, you still have the opportunity to teach your children how to submit to authority, or lead a family. Even though both verbs denote action, they are also an attitude of the heart. Submission and authority are responses to an obedient heart, and obedience is a choice.
So, while Hollywood and Pixar continue to keep us entertained, don't miss the chance to use the stories and lives they present to teach the truth to those precious children in your life. The movie may only last an hour and a half, but Lord willing, the lessons will remain a lifetime. "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Learning by paradox
Feeling quite rested from my little vacation, I thought it would be a great idea to change the clothes out. (Switching winter clothes with summer) What was I thinking?! I believe I am ready to go back camping now. With my living room, bedroom, closets, etc looking like Goodwill threw up, I decided, in lieu of a regular post, I would post a devotional/prayer from one of my all-time favorite books; The Valley of Vision. I have added a link on the side that takes you to a daily devotion from this book. If this book is not already part of your library, I would highly recommend picking it up. (The best price I've found is at Westminster Bookstore)
Thanks for reading:) Look for new recipe on tomorrow's blog.
Thanks for reading:) Look for new recipe on tomorrow's blog.
The Valley of Vision
LORD, HIGH AND HOLY, MEEK AND LOWLY,
Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision,
where I live in the depths but see thee in the heights;
hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory.
Let me learn by paradox
that the way down is the way up,
that to be low is to be high,
that the broken heart is the healed heart,
that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,
that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,
that to have nothing is to possess all,
that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,
that to give is to receive,
that the valley is the place of vision.
Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells,
and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine;
Let me find thy light in my darkness,
thy life in my death,
thy joy in my sorrow,
thy grace in my sin,
thy riches in my poverty,
thy glory in my valley.
Amen
Friday, March 20, 2009
A Little R & R
Okay, Blogger is NOT cooperating tonight, and it's late. So, pics come first.
Look who caught the 1st fish!
Abby and Jeff in school. Jackie is doing laundry:)
Look, Daddy! I'm fishin'
Just look what smiles a few worms, chicken livers and barefeet can bring:)
The R & R began immediately upon arrival. The kids began fishing with Grandpa, and Grandma and I began preparing lunch. The meal was simple, just some sandwiches, chips, pickles, and fresh fruit. We ate every morsel:) Even after our hearty lunch and despite all the snacking throughout the day, we were all famished at supper time.
Now, when I cook at home, I always plan to over fix so that Chuck can have leftovers for lunch. However, when you're camping, it's a little different. Even though my parents' RV has a refrigerator in it, space is still limited. In fact, most of the time when you go camping, the only storage for your food is in the coolers you bring. You have to keep checking to make sure the food stays cool and does not spoil. For this reason, you try to fix only what you can eat at each meal with few or no leftovers. The kids seemed to anticipate each meal, as if they hadn't eaten for a week. Everyone ate outside together in the fresh air, and savored every bite.
So why is the food so much better when you're away from home? Could it be the fresh air, or maybe the change in scenery? Possibly the fact there are no outside distractions, like TVs, telephones, video games, or errands to run. I think it's a combination of all of them. When your camping, there are so many new adventures, "chores," and activities that you are experiencing; your body gets hungry, seriously hungry. When you're that hungry, food tastes good!
Just as sandwiches and fruit are satisfying to our stomachs; God's Word is satisfying to our souls. With the daily distractions of "life" at home, it's easy to put off the responsibility we have to feed our souls with truth. "Danger, Danger Will Robinson." Be careful. We must be diligent to saturate our souls and thoughts with Christ like attitudes. "Finally, Brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things." Philippians 4:8
While camping, I am feeding my body great, healthy food (ok, and a few snacks). Out here, food is not an after thought, it's an event to be carefully planned. So should our souls' meals be planned. We need to carve out time to satisfy them; daily Bible reading, prayer, meditation of the Scriptures, and audio sermons are just a few ways. Though grabbing snacks during the day are great to keep us level (like quick articles and 5 minute devotions), we can't expect them to keep us healthy and satisfied. We must feast on the the meat God has prepared for us. "Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God." Matthew 4:4
So, next time you go camping, don't forget to pack your toys, games, and snacks. But more importantly, pack the one thing that will keep you satisfied, The Living Word of God.
Stay tuned for pictures:)
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
What God Would Have For You.....
Contentment=Happiness . . . . . . Happiness=Contentment
Not exactly what is preached by society. The world sounds more like this.." Well, this isn't exactly what I planned on, but since I can't have what makes me happy, I guess I'll be content with what I have." Sound familiar? Contentment is not settling for what your left with, it's understanding that what you have is what God would have for you. Our unhappiness and discontented attitudes are not from what we lack, but from our desire for what we lack. Too often we confuse America's dream talk to God's will for our lives. God has given us exactly what we need, at exactly the right time, and the right amount. We must seek to learn what He would have us learn.
We live in a small house, about 1200 sq ft. I have to admit, there have been times, ok, many times when I have longed for a larger house. Thankfully, God's sovereign plan has kept my family in this home. I have come to understand that He has not finished teaching us what He wants us to learn. For instance, I never would have learned to simplify our household goods, like I have been forced to, by living in a larger space. God is gently teaching me to become an efficient manager of our home by doing "more" with "less." I guess you could say that I am earning my Master's in More Stuff Equals More Work. I'll let you know if I ever get the degree on that one:)
I have also learned being content means being thankful. When I am thankful for all God has given me, I am more content with my life and circumstances. This should be a no-brainer, but it's not. It's very easy, in our selfish ways, to focus on the negatives and forget, or conveniently overlook the positives. Let me explain. See if any apply.....I am ashamed to say many do for me.
What do your pour your energies into.....
*being frustrated because your husband "never listens to you"
*being grateful your husband comes home to you every night
*tired of seeing the laundry pile up
*happy your child finally understood the difference in lay and lie
*wishing you could buy some steaks, but grocery prices are ridiculous
*grateful you found some one-dish meals the kids actually like
*complaining about all the housework to do
*thanking God for the opportunities you have to serve your family
*thanking your husband for providing for your family
*admonishing your husband for neglected house projects
Contentment comes from where we look and what we believe in, not from what we have. We must also be careful not to fall into the trap of comparing our lives with others for prideful reasons. "I should be content with what I have because others have less" or "Look how much they have, and they aren't even thankful." We can always find someone who is worse off than we are. Likewise, we can find others who are better off. We cannot allow this world to skew our perspective. Contentment is Christ. "In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:12-13 Paul learned the truth, that he deserved nothing; he had no rights or claims to anything. We too must learn that, and when we do it will not matter what we don't have, because everything we have will be seen as a gift.
So tonight, in my "small" home, I am thanking God for the big changes He continues to make in my heart. Rest tonight knowing what you have is what God would have for you. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." Matthew 5:6
Not exactly what is preached by society. The world sounds more like this.." Well, this isn't exactly what I planned on, but since I can't have what makes me happy, I guess I'll be content with what I have." Sound familiar? Contentment is not settling for what your left with, it's understanding that what you have is what God would have for you. Our unhappiness and discontented attitudes are not from what we lack, but from our desire for what we lack. Too often we confuse America's dream talk to God's will for our lives. God has given us exactly what we need, at exactly the right time, and the right amount. We must seek to learn what He would have us learn.
We live in a small house, about 1200 sq ft. I have to admit, there have been times, ok, many times when I have longed for a larger house. Thankfully, God's sovereign plan has kept my family in this home. I have come to understand that He has not finished teaching us what He wants us to learn. For instance, I never would have learned to simplify our household goods, like I have been forced to, by living in a larger space. God is gently teaching me to become an efficient manager of our home by doing "more" with "less." I guess you could say that I am earning my Master's in More Stuff Equals More Work. I'll let you know if I ever get the degree on that one:)
I have also learned being content means being thankful. When I am thankful for all God has given me, I am more content with my life and circumstances. This should be a no-brainer, but it's not. It's very easy, in our selfish ways, to focus on the negatives and forget, or conveniently overlook the positives. Let me explain. See if any apply.....I am ashamed to say many do for me.
What do your pour your energies into.....
*being frustrated because your husband "never listens to you"
*being grateful your husband comes home to you every night
*tired of seeing the laundry pile up
*happy your child finally understood the difference in lay and lie
*wishing you could buy some steaks, but grocery prices are ridiculous
*grateful you found some one-dish meals the kids actually like
*complaining about all the housework to do
*thanking God for the opportunities you have to serve your family
*thanking your husband for providing for your family
*admonishing your husband for neglected house projects
Contentment comes from where we look and what we believe in, not from what we have. We must also be careful not to fall into the trap of comparing our lives with others for prideful reasons. "I should be content with what I have because others have less" or "Look how much they have, and they aren't even thankful." We can always find someone who is worse off than we are. Likewise, we can find others who are better off. We cannot allow this world to skew our perspective. Contentment is Christ. "In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:12-13 Paul learned the truth, that he deserved nothing; he had no rights or claims to anything. We too must learn that, and when we do it will not matter what we don't have, because everything we have will be seen as a gift.
So tonight, in my "small" home, I am thanking God for the big changes He continues to make in my heart. Rest tonight knowing what you have is what God would have for you. "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." Matthew 5:6
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Sick Day
Well, the inevitable happened.........I got sick :( I ended up with the crud all the kids have; bronchitis and an ear infection. Hmph. I think the worst part is not having a voice. So, I finally broke down and went to the doctor. After the rocket-sized shot I received, I will hopefully start feeling better tonight or tomorrow.
Since I don't feel like writing much, I thought I would take this opportunity to post some pictures from our recent trip to Dauset Trails. We had a blast. My parents, and my niece and nephew were able to go with us. So much fun!! Enjoy.
I loved watching these two otters
Here Kitty, Kitty
Hanging with just one of many pieces of chainsaw art
All the kids at Dauset Trails
This is a picture of Abby dressed up for an American Girl party.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
One more reason.....
"Celia, I've been in an accident......I'm ok." The first part stuns you, the second relieves you. Not a call you want to receive at 8am, or any time of day. One more reason I always answer the phone. Such was my morning. Chuck was involved in an accident on the way to work his part time job in the ER this morning. A lady ran a stop sign and blew right into his path. He didn't have time to think, brake, or brace for the impact. Thank the Lord the only things hurt were the two vehicles.
On the way to pick him up at the scene and give him a ride to work, I realized this was the closest we (me and my children) have ever been to losing Chuck. I used this opportunity to first, Thank the Lord for his gift of mercy on us, and second to teach them how precious life really is. We are not promised tomorrow. Lord make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am." Psalm 39:4 We must love one another and honor God every moment we have. We get so caught up in the daily junk, that we lose perspective. We have an opportunity every minute we have breath to glorify God. How many minutes are wasted on "stuff?" In this fragile moment, God allowed my children to be soft and receptive to all I had to say. Reason #152 I was glad to have them home, with me. If they had been off at school, I would've lost such a tender moment. (Selfishlessly, they help me keep it together, too)
As Chuck and I stood at the scene watching the tow truck leave, I walked over to the lady that caused the accident. I hugged her and told her I was thankful she wasn't hurt. She looked at me, stunned. As tears welled in her eyes, she said, "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to hurt nobody." I assured her Chuck was fine, and again told her I was glad she was safe, and I would pray for her. Would I have done the same if he was hurt? I don't know, but I pray the Lord would grow me that I could show love, no matter the circumstances. I have nothing to offer without Christ. But in Him, and through Him, I can bring glory to the King of Kings. "All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away." I Peter 1:24
Treasure everyday with one another. "Stuff" can be replaced. Thank you Lord for allowing me more time with the precious man you gave to me. Help me be a good steward with that time. :)
On the way to pick him up at the scene and give him a ride to work, I realized this was the closest we (me and my children) have ever been to losing Chuck. I used this opportunity to first, Thank the Lord for his gift of mercy on us, and second to teach them how precious life really is. We are not promised tomorrow. Lord make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am." Psalm 39:4 We must love one another and honor God every moment we have. We get so caught up in the daily junk, that we lose perspective. We have an opportunity every minute we have breath to glorify God. How many minutes are wasted on "stuff?" In this fragile moment, God allowed my children to be soft and receptive to all I had to say. Reason #152 I was glad to have them home, with me. If they had been off at school, I would've lost such a tender moment. (Selfishlessly, they help me keep it together, too)
As Chuck and I stood at the scene watching the tow truck leave, I walked over to the lady that caused the accident. I hugged her and told her I was thankful she wasn't hurt. She looked at me, stunned. As tears welled in her eyes, she said, "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to hurt nobody." I assured her Chuck was fine, and again told her I was glad she was safe, and I would pray for her. Would I have done the same if he was hurt? I don't know, but I pray the Lord would grow me that I could show love, no matter the circumstances. I have nothing to offer without Christ. But in Him, and through Him, I can bring glory to the King of Kings. "All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away." I Peter 1:24
Treasure everyday with one another. "Stuff" can be replaced. Thank you Lord for allowing me more time with the precious man you gave to me. Help me be a good steward with that time. :)
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Comforting, huh
I can remember when I was sick as a child. Sometimes the TLC from my parents helped me more than my medicine did. The comfort of my Daddy's big lap surrounding me as I sat on him, the sweetness of my Mama's voice singing as I lay on her chest, and the security of their "big" bed to snuggle in when I was scared to be alone in my bedroom were all provided freely without so much as a second thought. Even though my parents aren't physicians, there is much to be said for the healing power of love.
As the baton is passed on, I find myself caring for three sick children that want to be held, sung to and snuggled in the big bed. Though I can not make it "all better," I thank the Lord for the ability He has provided me to love my children, unconditionally. I cannot perform this perfectly, but nonetheless, I can perform it. Without Christ, this is an impossible feat. In Christ, our love can now, bear all things, hope all things, and endure all things. (I Corinthians 13:7)
As I think about that comfort provided by earthly fathers, I can't help but marvel at the constant comfort our Heavenly Father provides. "Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant." Psalm 119:76 Again in Psalm 119:50, "This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life." God's Word, that's our comfort. As sinners, our hearts are blackened from sin. We have a sin nature, and though, we as Christians sin less, we are not sinless. We must seek God's comfort daily, many times a day to keep from becoming "ill." We are exposed to many "diseases" and "plagues" in the world. Our only hope to combat these "illnesses" is to inoculate, if you will, ourselves with the healing and protective Word of The Living God.
So even as I administer meds and hugs to my sick little children tonight, my prayer is their real source of comfort will come from the Word we read to them and the prayers we lift up to the Lord on their behalf. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." II Corinthians 1:3-5
As the baton is passed on, I find myself caring for three sick children that want to be held, sung to and snuggled in the big bed. Though I can not make it "all better," I thank the Lord for the ability He has provided me to love my children, unconditionally. I cannot perform this perfectly, but nonetheless, I can perform it. Without Christ, this is an impossible feat. In Christ, our love can now, bear all things, hope all things, and endure all things. (I Corinthians 13:7)
As I think about that comfort provided by earthly fathers, I can't help but marvel at the constant comfort our Heavenly Father provides. "Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant." Psalm 119:76 Again in Psalm 119:50, "This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life." God's Word, that's our comfort. As sinners, our hearts are blackened from sin. We have a sin nature, and though, we as Christians sin less, we are not sinless. We must seek God's comfort daily, many times a day to keep from becoming "ill." We are exposed to many "diseases" and "plagues" in the world. Our only hope to combat these "illnesses" is to inoculate, if you will, ourselves with the healing and protective Word of The Living God.
So even as I administer meds and hugs to my sick little children tonight, my prayer is their real source of comfort will come from the Word we read to them and the prayers we lift up to the Lord on their behalf. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." II Corinthians 1:3-5
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Humility 101
It's very humbling when God uses your children to teach you a lesson. It seems I have been learning many of those lately. I spend my days trying to get across to the kids that "it's not all about you." "Be a servant." "Stop being so inconvenienced with everyone. Make sure you are not being easily provoked. Be long suffering. Have patience with each other. You mustn't demand your way, in your time." These are pretty common phrases spoken, by me, in our home. These need to be spoken, but more importantly, they need and must be modeled. How many times a day do I get "inconvenienced" or demand my way? Let's see.......when the traffic is not moving as I think it should - when someone pulls out in front of me and then drives slowly - when the dog needs to go out, and I'm the only one that notices - when I'm ready to sit and relax but have a sink full of dishes to do. Who am I to get irritated? I spend my day teaching my children to live their lives for Christ and respond with love no matter the circumstances, but then fail to show them what it looks like. You see, my children may never hear my words, but I know they will see my actions. That's why a child's mannerisms are so much like their parents; they mimic. The mimicking becomes habit, and the habit becomes ingrained as part of their character. I keep learning, time and time again; the most effective teacher is one that teaches by example. Jesus lived this example, perfectly, for us to see. "Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." Philippians 2:3-8
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Picking Oranges, Pulling Weeds, and Paying Mortgage.....Oh My
We received a Wii on Christmas from my husband's parents, and it has been a blast for the whole family. My husband and I have struggled in the past with the amount of time and exposure we allow our children to have with video games. We currently own a Nintendo 64, an XBox 360, three DS Lites, and now a Wii (personally my favorite).
Just to provide a little background history; we began "using" video games with our oldest child, Jeff, when he was around 6 (now 12). Jeff has vision in his right eye ONLY, due to a cataract that killed the nerves in his left eye. He had surgery when he was 31 months old, and steps were taken to restore his sight, but all attempts failed. Jeff is quite a survivor, though, and has adapted beautifully. That said, we began to notice that his hand-eye coordination left a little to be desired. My husband and I decided to try Jeff on a handheld game system, I believe it was a Leapster of sorts. We noticed right away that he definitely had a knack. To this day Jeff can pick up just about any game on any system and master it within a fraction of the time it would take you or me.
When we bought our original XBox, my husband and I actually purchased it for the two of us to have "date night." We don't have a regular babysitter, nor the funds to eat out, so we figured we could play a game when the kids went down and have some fun. However, we soon discovered that he was not the gamer I was. Bess him heart. He was good, don't get me wrong, he just didn't enjoy it. The games tended to frustrate him instead of relax him. So the XBox became family property and ultimately the kids' box.
Bear with me, I am going somewhere with this..........
With each added game system added, the time spent on video games increased, and essential things, like reading and chores, decreased. I don't blame my husband, nor my children for this. My husband was at work, and the kids only do what I tell them. ...... HA HA HA HA HA! Sorry, let me wipe the tears from my eyes, I just cracked myself up. Okay, anyway, it was MY fault. I was allowing it. It seemed easier than hearing, "Mama, will you...." or "STOP!!! I had it first!" or my favorite, "There's nothing to do...." The fact is, the more time they spent on the games, the more trouble I had, and the more I had to intervene.
Alright, let's fast forward to present day..... We have a few games for the Wii that are only enjoyed by the children, but for the most part, we have a lot of family games. Our (mine and the kids) favorite game is Animal Crossing: City Folk (we'll call it AC). AC is only a one player game, but you can have up to 4 "files" on which to play. Your character lives in a fictional town, which you get to name, with about 10 animal neighbors. The town has a general store, tailor, coffee shop, museum, and town hall. Each character gets to furnish their own house. You are not employed, per se, but you are able to earn money by a variety of means: picking fruit and selling fruit, catching and selling fish, just to name a few. You must pay off your mortgage in order to increase the size of you house, donate money to make major improvements to your town, or plant flowers and greenery to make it lovely:) In addition to this, your neighbors talk to you and respond to the ways you talk to them. (Be rude and they may move, or nice and they may stay.) So......I have a house, and each of the three kids have a house. What we do, could affect the other players.
While watching one of the children play recently, I realized what a great teaching tool this game could be. For instance: Jackson, my 10 year old, likes to leave clothes, fishing rods, and furniture on the ground around the town. Jackson doesn't like to pick weeds either. Periodically, weeds will appear. You do not get any gain or reward for picking them, however, not picking them will cause negative results. I was explaining to him that we could not get a good "rating", for our town, if we had trash and weeds all over the ground, and that what he did affected the rest of the townspeople. Then it hit me......our fictitious AC town is like our REAL house; if you trash your room, it affects your brother (roommate) and your mother (Landlord).
Hmmmmm, let's see how else we could use this game. Let's try Jeff. Jeff likes to hit the animal neighbors on the head with a net which infuriates them. This action causes the little guys to move away from our town. That can be an issue if someone else in the family was friends with that animal. Worse yet, it leaves the door wide open for another animal resident to move in (maybe someone mean). Ugggghhh, say it isn't so! When I asked Jeff to stop, he said, "Awww, Mama, it's just a game." Is it, or does it actually shed light into their true character? Well, it is just a game, but I am finding they play a lot like they live. You see, this game is an opportunity for them to build friendships in a very safe environment. Though the relationships are not real, and the children know that, the animals respond according to their efforts.
Now, what about Abby, the 7 year old? Abby loves to play and is generally very kind to everyone. What I see with Abby is that she is lazy. Abby doesn't want to work to help out the effort, she just wants the reward. She's not concerned with her mortgage, even though it is her debt. I have used this to teach the obvious lesson of accountability.
You see, whether you are teaching your children from textbooks, worksheets, DVD lessons, field trips, or a video game, the message is the same; Don't waste any opportunity to hold your children accountable and teach them the Truth of God's Word. What a blessing to have my children home all day with me! There are so many "teachable moments." I just pray God will continue to allow me to see them, and not miss them out of my selfish need for a few moments of silence.
Thank you Animal Crossing for allowing me to remind my children that; "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God!" I Corinthians 10:31
Just to provide a little background history; we began "using" video games with our oldest child, Jeff, when he was around 6 (now 12). Jeff has vision in his right eye ONLY, due to a cataract that killed the nerves in his left eye. He had surgery when he was 31 months old, and steps were taken to restore his sight, but all attempts failed. Jeff is quite a survivor, though, and has adapted beautifully. That said, we began to notice that his hand-eye coordination left a little to be desired. My husband and I decided to try Jeff on a handheld game system, I believe it was a Leapster of sorts. We noticed right away that he definitely had a knack. To this day Jeff can pick up just about any game on any system and master it within a fraction of the time it would take you or me.
When we bought our original XBox, my husband and I actually purchased it for the two of us to have "date night." We don't have a regular babysitter, nor the funds to eat out, so we figured we could play a game when the kids went down and have some fun. However, we soon discovered that he was not the gamer I was. Bess him heart. He was good, don't get me wrong, he just didn't enjoy it. The games tended to frustrate him instead of relax him. So the XBox became family property and ultimately the kids' box.
Bear with me, I am going somewhere with this..........
With each added game system added, the time spent on video games increased, and essential things, like reading and chores, decreased. I don't blame my husband, nor my children for this. My husband was at work, and the kids only do what I tell them. ...... HA HA HA HA HA! Sorry, let me wipe the tears from my eyes, I just cracked myself up. Okay, anyway, it was MY fault. I was allowing it. It seemed easier than hearing, "Mama, will you...." or "STOP!!! I had it first!" or my favorite, "There's nothing to do...." The fact is, the more time they spent on the games, the more trouble I had, and the more I had to intervene.
Alright, let's fast forward to present day..... We have a few games for the Wii that are only enjoyed by the children, but for the most part, we have a lot of family games. Our (mine and the kids) favorite game is Animal Crossing: City Folk (we'll call it AC). AC is only a one player game, but you can have up to 4 "files" on which to play. Your character lives in a fictional town, which you get to name, with about 10 animal neighbors. The town has a general store, tailor, coffee shop, museum, and town hall. Each character gets to furnish their own house. You are not employed, per se, but you are able to earn money by a variety of means: picking fruit and selling fruit, catching and selling fish, just to name a few. You must pay off your mortgage in order to increase the size of you house, donate money to make major improvements to your town, or plant flowers and greenery to make it lovely:) In addition to this, your neighbors talk to you and respond to the ways you talk to them. (Be rude and they may move, or nice and they may stay.) So......I have a house, and each of the three kids have a house. What we do, could affect the other players.
While watching one of the children play recently, I realized what a great teaching tool this game could be. For instance: Jackson, my 10 year old, likes to leave clothes, fishing rods, and furniture on the ground around the town. Jackson doesn't like to pick weeds either. Periodically, weeds will appear. You do not get any gain or reward for picking them, however, not picking them will cause negative results. I was explaining to him that we could not get a good "rating", for our town, if we had trash and weeds all over the ground, and that what he did affected the rest of the townspeople. Then it hit me......our fictitious AC town is like our REAL house; if you trash your room, it affects your brother (roommate) and your mother (Landlord).
Hmmmmm, let's see how else we could use this game. Let's try Jeff. Jeff likes to hit the animal neighbors on the head with a net which infuriates them. This action causes the little guys to move away from our town. That can be an issue if someone else in the family was friends with that animal. Worse yet, it leaves the door wide open for another animal resident to move in (maybe someone mean). Ugggghhh, say it isn't so! When I asked Jeff to stop, he said, "Awww, Mama, it's just a game." Is it, or does it actually shed light into their true character? Well, it is just a game, but I am finding they play a lot like they live. You see, this game is an opportunity for them to build friendships in a very safe environment. Though the relationships are not real, and the children know that, the animals respond according to their efforts.
Now, what about Abby, the 7 year old? Abby loves to play and is generally very kind to everyone. What I see with Abby is that she is lazy. Abby doesn't want to work to help out the effort, she just wants the reward. She's not concerned with her mortgage, even though it is her debt. I have used this to teach the obvious lesson of accountability.
You see, whether you are teaching your children from textbooks, worksheets, DVD lessons, field trips, or a video game, the message is the same; Don't waste any opportunity to hold your children accountable and teach them the Truth of God's Word. What a blessing to have my children home all day with me! There are so many "teachable moments." I just pray God will continue to allow me to see them, and not miss them out of my selfish need for a few moments of silence.
Thank you Animal Crossing for allowing me to remind my children that; "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God!" I Corinthians 10:31
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Where Does the Time Go?
Well, after 1-1/2 hours of sleep, co-op lesson planning, and the passing of two lovely kidney stones (may they rest in peace), another day in the Griffith household has almost come to a close. As I sit and ponder how I am going to use this blog, my prayer is it will be a journal for me, and an encouragement to others who feel like they are alone on this unique journey called......homeschooling. Sometimes it's just nice to know you are not the exception, but the rule. We ALL fall behind at some point in time, we ALL find ourselves juggling the school schedule, once again, because of unexpected appts, a "quick" call to the insurance company to question a claim, and let's not forget the contractors that completely disrupt the school day when they come to do repair work, and we ALL wonder if our kids are learning anything. But in the midst of this chaotic storm called life, God provides His quiet, ever faithful, peaceful calm to keep you sane enough to endure another day:) "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28
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