Yesterday's services were both encouraging worship times for me.
I knew going into Sunday morning that I would be leading prayer time for the 9am service and I was grateful for the opportunity to serve in that capacity. And though I'm glad my Associate Pastor was able to be at home resting and recovering from last week's surgery, she was missed by many in the congregation (myself included). Last month I was able to lead in prayer for the 9am service and that was a blessing too. It is something I enjoy doing and was part of a rotation several years back.
What I didn't know until Sunday morning was that I would be helping with communion too. That's not a big deal because I'm ready and willing to help serve as needed. It's also not a big deal because I've helped with communion many times now, doing the liturgy in several settings and serving in many more settings.
But, somehow, Sunday morning, when I got into the Sanctuary and went over the parts I'd be doing, it struck me --- I've never "done" a communion service at my home church. I've not done the liturgy part there in that congregation. And, for whatever reason, I suddenly got nervous. In my moment of nervousness, I sought out a dedicated prayer warrior whom I knew would pray. We exchanged prayer requests and I let it go. I also thought of the time I served communion at an Academy session with my clergy friend Marysol from Puerto Rico. That gave me reason to smile.
It's not always easy to worship when you're participating in the worship service. It is even more difficult when you shuffle the items in the bulletin around and forget to mark them on your copy. ☺ It all worked out and we all worked together to get things done. I was able to worship through the music on both the piano, the organ, and the songs sung by the choir. The choir sang "Blessed Assurance" as a call to worship and "I Remember You" prior to communion. Both drew me closer to the throne so I could worship.
In the communion liturgy we remembered those in our congregation who had passed this past year. All Saint's Day is always a special time to remember the saints in our lives who have gone before.
The sermon was the last in a series of living generously. We watched the final clip, "Seed Time" and I was encouraged by the changes in the character's life (Frank) that had taken place over the past several weeks. With God, giving isn't just giving, it is sowing. Sowing is a wonderful investment that will reap much. My pastor preaches with his heart and soul. When he is touched something, you know it. He was touched yesterday. He said he wanted to change the world and be part of a movement and I took that as a challenge for me too. I want to be a part of that change and movement. With God as our Master Landscaper we can be tools in the re-landscaping of our worlds so that we are changed first. As the Spirit is sown with us, the Spirit will be sown in the lives of others in our path.
The challenge / question(s) that he left us with was: How will I serve the Spirit? / What is God asking me to do through His church? (with my energy, my resources, my time, etc.) / How can I partner with God?
Good questions to contemplate!
Go to rhemedia.com or vimeo (and search for rhemedia.com) for some clips from the "Living Generously" series.
You can go to the rhemedia website by clicking here. They are the ones that make the films.
You can also check out the Generosity Trust website. Here is the direct link to generosity training. This will take you to a preview and information about the "Living Generously" series too.
Though the sermon series came to an end yesterday, "living generously" isn't over, it is just beginning.
It's time to spend some serious contemplating on those challenge questions and then step into living a more generous life!
Blessings on your journey!
Debra
P.S. There was one thought I had during the service that I thought would have been cool... for the pastor to take a handful of seeds, like the gardener Ray in the video clip, and throw them up in the air. It was "seed time" and time for sowing. ☺ However, that probably wouldn't have gone over too well. I guess one could always throw packets of seeds, thus not requiring a massive clean up afterwards. It was just a thought. Something visual. Something tangible. An extra take-a-way. ☺
(2nd service.... great music, energy, and sermon for the 2nd time. This time I enjoyed it fully as a participant and even caught more of the video clip by watching it two times.)
Monday, November 4, 2013
Friday, November 1, 2013
Book review and reflection from Climbing Mayodan Mountain
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Climbing Mayodan Mountain: The People Who Could was written by Dr. Charles D. Killian, also known as Chuck. It was published in 2006 by Empire Publishing, Inc. in Madison, NC. The cover photo was taken by Connie Fox.
ISBN: 978-0944019-48-1
This was one of my required reading texts for my PR 501 Foundations of Proclamation class at Asbury Theological Seminary this Fall semester. Not having seen the book, but knowing that my professor was and is a storyteller, I was actually expecting a book on mountain climbing adventures.
Though the book is not about mountain climbing, it didn't disappoint me.
The author covers three years of his time with the Mayodan congregation and shares stories from his pastoral and congregational life in a down-to-earth manner. As he states himself, these stories are a "collection of ramblings [...] intended to give you just a glimpse of the heart of this pastor and the indomitable spirit and character of this community of believers--a church that "could"." (foreword, page 5)
We learn about this community from Mayodan and what they have endured, how they have moved on, how they have helped others. They truly are a community of folks who have remained strong in their faith.
The author's writing style resonated with me, making me feel that I was sitting down listening to him tell these stories. I connected with that. Maybe because his style is close to my own and therefore I was both encouraged and inspired to keep on writing.
In addition, there were many "nuggets" (insights) peppered into the journal entries and I found myself underlining, starring, and note-taking in the margins as I read the book. Nuggets related to pastoring, writing, relating with and to others, and basic experiences of life.
Several times throughout the book, the author laments having put off the discipline of writing and mentions the importance of keeping up with it:
August 12, 2004--"I must get caught up with this discipline or it will escape me." (73)
February 6, 2005--"The discipline of writing is like any other discipline: if you don't stay at it, it will fade and falter." (102)
May 11, 2005--"I don't know why it is so difficult for me to keep disciplined about my writing. I really enjoy doing it, but sometimes the press of duties and other 'stuff' get in the way of this part of my ministry." (114)
I can really relate to what he says about the discipline of writing. It is a discipline. And, as I've mentioned in other posts, it has become one of my spiritual disciplines. Not all of my writing is a spiritual discipline. There are papers to write for classes and there are basic journal entries. However, for the most part, my blogging continues to be a spiritual discipline. It is a time of connecting to God and others, working through aspects of the faith journey and sharing what I'm learning and experiencing.
Like the author, there are times when I'm not able to write because of other commitments. If I go too long without writing, I become antsy and edgy and know I need to get those things swirling around inside of me out. For me, it means finding a way to balance the responsibilities so that I can write and reflect. Some months I seem to be able to get more writing in than others. The most I've posted in a month is 16 posts. Last month I posted 13 posts. But, I digress...
Based on the author's journal entries, I know he is elated that the Red Sox won the World Series this year.
From baseball to Brunswick stew to Smucker's to Cracker Barrel to K-Mart to ordinary and not-so-ordinary people and situations and experiences, Chuck Killian made connections to the faith journey. In his journal entry for July 14, 2003 he wrote: "I keep seeing sermons all around me." (14)
I would agree. It is obvious in his writing. He sees the teaching moment in all of life. That is what is so compelling about this book.
As you enter into this "conversation" and listen to what this storyteller has to say, you will be connected with the insights to the faith journey.
I recommend the book. I believe you will be encouraged.
The only difficulty may be in finding it. We needed to order it from the author/professor.
You can try emailing the publisher at info@empirepublishinginc.com for a copy.
Blessings on your journey,
Debra
Thursday, October 31, 2013
A day of unexpected joys and surprises....
You wouldn't think that going for your yearly doctor appointment would turn into one of the highlights of your day, especially considering it was the ob-gyn appointment.
However, upon my arrival this morning to the office, I noticed the workers were dressed up in costume. I saw a superman, a spider man, an underdog, several tutus. They said, 'just wait until you see the doctors.' Okay, I admit, that was a little scary. ☺
My nurse had bat stuff on her and was creatively using a skirt as a bat cape. She had a tiny pumpkin and a bat on her head. I saw an "incredible" character in his bright red and yellow looking underwear/pajamas.
If you really want to know what I was thinking, it was this: OF ALL DAYS for me to be "courteous" and leave my phone in the car. Oh, the pictures I could have taken!! ☺
When my doctor came around the curtain, I was looking at batman. 6 pack abs, mask, etc. Weird, but cool. He did take off the mask to chat with me, but as I heard him in the hallway, without the mask, he was "Bruce". He said the abs got in his way and he wasn't sure how long he'd be able to work in the outfit.
But it was a fun time. It made an otherwise not so fun doctor visit fun. ☺
From there I went to visit some folks at different hospitals. I was early to one hospital, having misread my email. "on Tuesday" (I finally figured out) meant next week; it wasn't in reference to earlier this week.
At the next hospital, after finally finding parking on the top outside section of the parking deck, I made my way inside and ran into one of the ladies in the Bible Study I lead twice a month. I was able to check in with her and see how she was doing and also see how the lady was doing who had been in the hospital, learning that she had been moved to rehab. This hospital didn't have as many folks in costumes, but there were a few.
I had a good visit with the folks I was there to visit and pray with and then headed out. I enjoy hospital visits. Long before I started seminary, I visited folks in the hospital... to be with them, to chat with them, to pray with them. I still remember visiting Lucy one day. She was someone I attended Grace UMC with. I was visiting her and the hospital chaplain came by. She told the chaplain her chaplain was already with her. If folks want, I read Scripture. Sometimes I'm not the best person for hospital visits. If you've got stitches and I make you laugh, that can be painful. But, visiting folks in the hospital is something I've done for many years and it's something I really enjoy doing. It is a blessing to attempt to bring some love, light, and joy into the situation.... and it's an honor and privilege simply to be in the ministry of presence. It's not just hospitals, but homes and living facilities too.... There have been some good God moments and thin spaces over the years. But, for the most part, it's simply a time to simply be.
After that, I headed to Starbucks for my free... FREE... birthday drink from my rewards card. I wasn't going to make it to taekwondo, so what better way to celebrate the last day of the month?!?! A venti salted caramel mocha! Good thing I walked two miles this morning!
When I walked into Starbucks, I noticed one worker had a necklace of green lights. But, the worker taking my order seemed "normal" until I finally realized her outfit was a BI-LO outfit, with a "Walter" apron and nametag. Funny how it took me a few minutes to realize that she was in costume. Since I was heading to BI-LO next to shop and my husband works with them, it took a few minutes to register in my brain that she was out of place. That made me smile.
Oh, the odd things in a day that can make one smile. Costumes in unexpected places. Visits to hospitals. Free coffee drinks.
Another unexpected joy and surprise is that my blog for the month of October has gone over 5,000 hits. That's a new record. That is mind boggling and humbling for me.
To cap off my day, here are words of wisdom from Jesus Calling from today:
"Learn to listen to Me even while you are listening to other people. As they open their souls to your scrutiny, you are on holy ground. You need the help of My Spirit to respond appropriately. As him to think through you, live through you, love through you. [...] Be a channel of My Love, Joy, and Peace by listening to Me as you listen to others." (October 31)
Scripture references: Exodus 3:3; 1 Corinthians 6:19; John 7:38-39
That is my prayer for each day.... that I listen to God so that as I listen to others, I will be that channel, that open vessel.
May you be blessed with unexpected joys and surprises along your journey and may you be a blessing to others as you listen to God while listening to others.
It is my prayer that we all grow into better listeners.
Blessings on your journey,
Debra
However, upon my arrival this morning to the office, I noticed the workers were dressed up in costume. I saw a superman, a spider man, an underdog, several tutus. They said, 'just wait until you see the doctors.' Okay, I admit, that was a little scary. ☺
My nurse had bat stuff on her and was creatively using a skirt as a bat cape. She had a tiny pumpkin and a bat on her head. I saw an "incredible" character in his bright red and yellow looking underwear/pajamas.
If you really want to know what I was thinking, it was this: OF ALL DAYS for me to be "courteous" and leave my phone in the car. Oh, the pictures I could have taken!! ☺
When my doctor came around the curtain, I was looking at batman. 6 pack abs, mask, etc. Weird, but cool. He did take off the mask to chat with me, but as I heard him in the hallway, without the mask, he was "Bruce". He said the abs got in his way and he wasn't sure how long he'd be able to work in the outfit.
But it was a fun time. It made an otherwise not so fun doctor visit fun. ☺
From there I went to visit some folks at different hospitals. I was early to one hospital, having misread my email. "on Tuesday" (I finally figured out) meant next week; it wasn't in reference to earlier this week.
At the next hospital, after finally finding parking on the top outside section of the parking deck, I made my way inside and ran into one of the ladies in the Bible Study I lead twice a month. I was able to check in with her and see how she was doing and also see how the lady was doing who had been in the hospital, learning that she had been moved to rehab. This hospital didn't have as many folks in costumes, but there were a few.
I had a good visit with the folks I was there to visit and pray with and then headed out. I enjoy hospital visits. Long before I started seminary, I visited folks in the hospital... to be with them, to chat with them, to pray with them. I still remember visiting Lucy one day. She was someone I attended Grace UMC with. I was visiting her and the hospital chaplain came by. She told the chaplain her chaplain was already with her. If folks want, I read Scripture. Sometimes I'm not the best person for hospital visits. If you've got stitches and I make you laugh, that can be painful. But, visiting folks in the hospital is something I've done for many years and it's something I really enjoy doing. It is a blessing to attempt to bring some love, light, and joy into the situation.... and it's an honor and privilege simply to be in the ministry of presence. It's not just hospitals, but homes and living facilities too.... There have been some good God moments and thin spaces over the years. But, for the most part, it's simply a time to simply be.
After that, I headed to Starbucks for my free... FREE... birthday drink from my rewards card. I wasn't going to make it to taekwondo, so what better way to celebrate the last day of the month?!?! A venti salted caramel mocha! Good thing I walked two miles this morning!
When I walked into Starbucks, I noticed one worker had a necklace of green lights. But, the worker taking my order seemed "normal" until I finally realized her outfit was a BI-LO outfit, with a "Walter" apron and nametag. Funny how it took me a few minutes to realize that she was in costume. Since I was heading to BI-LO next to shop and my husband works with them, it took a few minutes to register in my brain that she was out of place. That made me smile.
Oh, the odd things in a day that can make one smile. Costumes in unexpected places. Visits to hospitals. Free coffee drinks.
Another unexpected joy and surprise is that my blog for the month of October has gone over 5,000 hits. That's a new record. That is mind boggling and humbling for me.
To cap off my day, here are words of wisdom from Jesus Calling from today:
"Learn to listen to Me even while you are listening to other people. As they open their souls to your scrutiny, you are on holy ground. You need the help of My Spirit to respond appropriately. As him to think through you, live through you, love through you. [...] Be a channel of My Love, Joy, and Peace by listening to Me as you listen to others." (October 31)
Scripture references: Exodus 3:3; 1 Corinthians 6:19; John 7:38-39
That is my prayer for each day.... that I listen to God so that as I listen to others, I will be that channel, that open vessel.
May you be blessed with unexpected joys and surprises along your journey and may you be a blessing to others as you listen to God while listening to others.
It is my prayer that we all grow into better listeners.
Blessings on your journey,
Debra
Warning..... Dangerous Waters
Yesterday my husband and I were walking the Riverwalk path.
In Chattanooga we are blessed to have a walking path that goes along the river. It hasn't always been here. It has grown in sections, much like the awesome Cumberland Hiking trail is growing these days.
Walkers, runners, and cyclists share the path along the river and through the scenery.
In addition to the scenery yesterday, the sign near the dam (at the top of the blog post) caught my attention anew.
I've seen it before.
But yesterday, I knew I wanted to get a picture.
It clicked something in my brain as I looked at it.
It occurred to me that this is the sign we might start using when we baptize folks. If we don't have it over the baptismal area (whether that is a fountain, a tub, a river, a lake, a pool, etc.), we should at least start being honest with folks and talking about it.
The waters of baptism are dangerous.
What?!?! How?!?!
You see, baptism is an act of grace, bestowed (given) to us by God. That act of grace unleashes freedom in our lives. We are free to grow in our faith relationship with God and others. And, it's dangerous.
Once baptized, the "waters" of life don't automatically become smooth nor does everything work out according to our plans. However, we are brought into a relationship that will truly work in us and through us the rest of our lives, if we are willing to learn and grow.
This isn't fleshed out in entirety.
This isn't based on a review of all the readings I've done on baptism, grace, or the Scriptures.
This is simply something that struck me yesterday.
I may flesh it out more one day. It might even become a sermon one day. Or, when I become ordained, you might see the picture next to whatever becomes the baptismal fount wherever I serve.
Anyway, I thought I'd share these few thoughts now.
I don't know what your thoughts or experiences are (or have been) with your faith journey, but for me, it continues to be an adventurous one. And, yes, at times, it is (can be) dangerous.
Danger can come from the outside world (situations beyond my control) or danger can come from my not paying attention to the relationships with God and others that are within my control.
Dangerous times allow for vigilance, growth, learning and change. They are reminders that I'm not in control. Above all, I am reminded that God's grace is the sustaining factor in my life, regardless of the circumstances.
May the grace of God carry you through the dangerous waters.
Blessings on your journey,
Debra
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Academy withdrawals...
October is almost over. That means quite a few things on many different levels. But one of the things that it means for me is that I'm feeling the effects of not being in the 2 year Academy life rhythm.
You might think since July would have been a time for Academy that I would have felt the effects then. But, I was in a very buffered and safe zone at the time. I had a board meeting with Fellowship of United Methodist Spiritual Directors and Retreat Leaders (Hearts on Fire) and I attended SoulFeast at Lake Junaluska, NC (sponsored by The Upper Room). So I didn't really feel the effects of missing my quarterly trek to Florida.
I meet with my spiritual director monthly. That is something I started prior to the Academy. That has been a tremendous blessing in my spiritual journey. I go later this week.
When I'm able to do so, I join with a group of folks for centering prayer. After the time of prayer, we either read slowly through a book or watch a video clip and discuss what we've read or heard. I've only made it to one of the sessions recently because of my schedule and responsibilities. The video we're currently watching is Richard Rohr talking on "Breathing Under Water". The time I went, his words spoke to me exactly where I was. I hope to get back to that group this week.
I have my time walking in the woods, in creation.
There are times of reading, silence, and solitude at home.
I've even started reading my 3rd Robert Mulholland book, Shaped by the Word: The Power of Scriptural Formation, to assist my formational growth. Though I've been working on growing formationally for several years, this book is helpful and timely for me now.
Yet, there still seems to be something missing.
And, I think it might have something to do with the bilingual atmosphere. From the participants and speakers from Puerto Rico to our incredible worship time.
It may also have to do with the worship atmosphere-- the themed altars and worship space with Jesus always there, dressed and ready for the occasion.
I'm sure it has something to do with the table fellowship and the covenant group time.
And, I know it has something to do with what became sacred space for me, the Life Enrichment Center. From my personal space that became "home", the labyrinth, the chapel, the Path of Silence, to the docks, to the nature trail, to seeing alligators, etc.
I still "owe" my Academy evaluation to Donna.... it's coming. I think you'll see that the Academy had a profound effect on me, from the moment I learned there was a bilingual 2 year Academy even being offered at the 5 day I attended to the first session through each and every session.
I know my life has changed. I have slowed down in many ways. I have given up control.... or rather, I am learning and attempting to give up control and allow God to guide my steps. ☺ There is more peace... most days.
Yet, even now as I write, there is the rumbling of restlessness once again. Is it because I am experiencing withdrawals? Or is there some message deep inside attempting to work its way out? It hasn't just been today.... it's been coming on for several days now. Speaking Spanish with the Ecuador Manta group in Branson, MO helped some.... especially while listening to them play spiritual songs on their instruments. That touched a deep place.
Writing one of my covenant group peeps to let them know I was experiencing Academy withdrawals helped. ☺ Unfortunately, I'm unable to go to the 5 day in Puerto Rico next Spring or the 5 day in Florida.
Being in community with fellow believers here helps too. Sunday was a great day for that! In two different worship communities!
Yet, somehow, I just can't shake the feeling that there is some shaping going on inside of me. Shaping and changing that hasn't been made clear to me just yet. Preparations for who knows what?!?!
All I know to do at this time for me to stay focused is to live into this: "Be still, and know that I am God." ~Psalm 46:10
Blessings on your journey!
Debra
You might think since July would have been a time for Academy that I would have felt the effects then. But, I was in a very buffered and safe zone at the time. I had a board meeting with Fellowship of United Methodist Spiritual Directors and Retreat Leaders (Hearts on Fire) and I attended SoulFeast at Lake Junaluska, NC (sponsored by The Upper Room). So I didn't really feel the effects of missing my quarterly trek to Florida.
I meet with my spiritual director monthly. That is something I started prior to the Academy. That has been a tremendous blessing in my spiritual journey. I go later this week.
When I'm able to do so, I join with a group of folks for centering prayer. After the time of prayer, we either read slowly through a book or watch a video clip and discuss what we've read or heard. I've only made it to one of the sessions recently because of my schedule and responsibilities. The video we're currently watching is Richard Rohr talking on "Breathing Under Water". The time I went, his words spoke to me exactly where I was. I hope to get back to that group this week.
I have my time walking in the woods, in creation.
There are times of reading, silence, and solitude at home.
I've even started reading my 3rd Robert Mulholland book, Shaped by the Word: The Power of Scriptural Formation, to assist my formational growth. Though I've been working on growing formationally for several years, this book is helpful and timely for me now.
Yet, there still seems to be something missing.
And, I think it might have something to do with the bilingual atmosphere. From the participants and speakers from Puerto Rico to our incredible worship time.
It may also have to do with the worship atmosphere-- the themed altars and worship space with Jesus always there, dressed and ready for the occasion.
I'm sure it has something to do with the table fellowship and the covenant group time.
And, I know it has something to do with what became sacred space for me, the Life Enrichment Center. From my personal space that became "home", the labyrinth, the chapel, the Path of Silence, to the docks, to the nature trail, to seeing alligators, etc.
I still "owe" my Academy evaluation to Donna.... it's coming. I think you'll see that the Academy had a profound effect on me, from the moment I learned there was a bilingual 2 year Academy even being offered at the 5 day I attended to the first session through each and every session.
I know my life has changed. I have slowed down in many ways. I have given up control.... or rather, I am learning and attempting to give up control and allow God to guide my steps. ☺ There is more peace... most days.
Yet, even now as I write, there is the rumbling of restlessness once again. Is it because I am experiencing withdrawals? Or is there some message deep inside attempting to work its way out? It hasn't just been today.... it's been coming on for several days now. Speaking Spanish with the Ecuador Manta group in Branson, MO helped some.... especially while listening to them play spiritual songs on their instruments. That touched a deep place.
Writing one of my covenant group peeps to let them know I was experiencing Academy withdrawals helped. ☺ Unfortunately, I'm unable to go to the 5 day in Puerto Rico next Spring or the 5 day in Florida.
Being in community with fellow believers here helps too. Sunday was a great day for that! In two different worship communities!
Yet, somehow, I just can't shake the feeling that there is some shaping going on inside of me. Shaping and changing that hasn't been made clear to me just yet. Preparations for who knows what?!?!
All I know to do at this time for me to stay focused is to live into this: "Be still, and know that I am God." ~Psalm 46:10
Blessings on your journey!
Debra
Monday, October 28, 2013
Circle of friends... a candle holder, a song, a life-long experience
This morning didn't turn out to be such a "normal" Monday morning. On my way to meet my walking partner, my husband called and asked about his calendar he had left in the car with important work-related numbers in it. The time was such that I couldn't turn around and go home. He said he'd come get the calendar.
When I got to the designated walking area, my friend texted that she was running a little late. Oops, I did have time to go back. Oh, well.
My friend arrived and we walked along the path. There were faint hints of leaves changing color, mostly reds. The yellows were mild, if at all. We're having a very late change in colors here in our area this year.
We walked a mile and a quarter this morning and got back to the cars. I was heading to facilitate a Bible Study class downtown. Oops. My friend's keys were in the car. We called her son from my phone and left a message.
I had time to take her home before heading downtown. Her son would bring her back to get the car. Whew! What a day already!
My husband had not come to get the calendar. It turns out he had remembered the numbers he needed.
I arrived to the church in time to set up the chairs in our traditional circle. I knew there might be one or two ladies out today, but I figured there would be at least 3 or four of us.
In the end, I guess there were "three or four of us": me, Jesus, Holy Spirit, God.
I was able to spend time in prayer for the ladies that normally come to the Bible Study and spend some extra time in 1 John 5, today's focus.
As I looked at the table with the lit candle, the Bible, and the chairs awaiting people to come, I wondered who would come join this circle of friends. It wasn't until later when the others weren't able to make it that I realized that the time and space were for my contemplation and reflection today.
It was okay. It was good for me to be there. I needed some quiet time to focus on them in prayer and to focus in and on the Word.
As I contemplate the concept of "circle of friends", I know that I am blessed by a much larger circle than the candle in these pictures represent. Honestly, it feels more like one of those older "coke (coca cola)" commercials where folks join hands around the world to sing.
[So, I searched for the coke commercial and didn't find folks joining hands, but I did find this from 1971. I may have another commercial in my head, but this fits too, with my world travels and mission trips and friends around the world. Yes, I'm shamelessly plugging "coke". My favorite cola brand. ☺]
I have been blessed and continue to be blessed by so many friends in this life. Thank you. Thank you for touching my life, for being a part of my life, for joining in whatever stage of the journey... Your life has blessed mine.
I found this song by Point of Grace about "Circle of Friends". Check out the lyrics and watch and listen to the song.
LYRICS:
Words & music by Douglas Mckelvey & Steve Siler
We were made to love and be loved
But the price this world demands will cost you far too much
I spent so many years just trying to fit in
Now I've found a place in this circle of friends
In a circle of friends we have one father
In a circle of friends we share this prayer
That every orphaned soul will know
And all will enter in
To the shelter of this circle of friends
If you weep, I will weep with you
If you sing for joy the rest of us will lift our voices too
But no matter what you feel inside there's no need to pretend
That's the way it is in this circle of friends
In a circle of friends
We have one father
In a circle of friends we share this prayer
That we'll gather together no matter how the highway bends
I will not lose this circle of friends
Among the nations, tribes and tongues we have sisters and brothers
And when we meet in heaven we will recognize each other
With joy so deep and love so sweet
Oh we'll celebrate these friends
And a life that never ends
In a prayer
That will not be long before
All will enter in
To the shelter of this circle of friends
That it will not be long before
All will enter in
To the shelter of this circle of friends
I hope and pray that you too are blessed by a wonderful circle of friends! It is good to have the time to stop and be reminded of how blessed we are by those friends, even through unexpected circumstances.
Blessings as you continue the journey!
Debra
When I got to the designated walking area, my friend texted that she was running a little late. Oops, I did have time to go back. Oh, well.
My friend arrived and we walked along the path. There were faint hints of leaves changing color, mostly reds. The yellows were mild, if at all. We're having a very late change in colors here in our area this year.
We walked a mile and a quarter this morning and got back to the cars. I was heading to facilitate a Bible Study class downtown. Oops. My friend's keys were in the car. We called her son from my phone and left a message.
I had time to take her home before heading downtown. Her son would bring her back to get the car. Whew! What a day already!
My husband had not come to get the calendar. It turns out he had remembered the numbers he needed.
I arrived to the church in time to set up the chairs in our traditional circle. I knew there might be one or two ladies out today, but I figured there would be at least 3 or four of us.
In the end, I guess there were "three or four of us": me, Jesus, Holy Spirit, God.
I was able to spend time in prayer for the ladies that normally come to the Bible Study and spend some extra time in 1 John 5, today's focus.
As I looked at the table with the lit candle, the Bible, and the chairs awaiting people to come, I wondered who would come join this circle of friends. It wasn't until later when the others weren't able to make it that I realized that the time and space were for my contemplation and reflection today.
It was okay. It was good for me to be there. I needed some quiet time to focus on them in prayer and to focus in and on the Word.
As I contemplate the concept of "circle of friends", I know that I am blessed by a much larger circle than the candle in these pictures represent. Honestly, it feels more like one of those older "coke (coca cola)" commercials where folks join hands around the world to sing.
[So, I searched for the coke commercial and didn't find folks joining hands, but I did find this from 1971. I may have another commercial in my head, but this fits too, with my world travels and mission trips and friends around the world. Yes, I'm shamelessly plugging "coke". My favorite cola brand. ☺]
I have been blessed and continue to be blessed by so many friends in this life. Thank you. Thank you for touching my life, for being a part of my life, for joining in whatever stage of the journey... Your life has blessed mine.
I found this song by Point of Grace about "Circle of Friends". Check out the lyrics and watch and listen to the song.
LYRICS:
Words & music by Douglas Mckelvey & Steve Siler
We were made to love and be loved
But the price this world demands will cost you far too much
I spent so many years just trying to fit in
Now I've found a place in this circle of friends
In a circle of friends we have one father
In a circle of friends we share this prayer
That every orphaned soul will know
And all will enter in
To the shelter of this circle of friends
If you weep, I will weep with you
If you sing for joy the rest of us will lift our voices too
But no matter what you feel inside there's no need to pretend
That's the way it is in this circle of friends
In a circle of friends
We have one father
In a circle of friends we share this prayer
That we'll gather together no matter how the highway bends
I will not lose this circle of friends
Among the nations, tribes and tongues we have sisters and brothers
And when we meet in heaven we will recognize each other
With joy so deep and love so sweet
Oh we'll celebrate these friends
And a life that never ends
In a prayer
That will not be long before
All will enter in
To the shelter of this circle of friends
That it will not be long before
All will enter in
To the shelter of this circle of friends
I hope and pray that you too are blessed by a wonderful circle of friends! It is good to have the time to stop and be reminded of how blessed we are by those friends, even through unexpected circumstances.
Blessings as you continue the journey!
Debra
Sunday, October 27, 2013
What a week! A family reunion, a trip to Arkansas and back!
Last Sunday we went up to Franklin, NC for the 66th Blaine family reunion.
My husband's grandmother was a Blaine (Bertha Matilda Blaine). She married a Moffitt (John McGee). They had Grace Earl, who married a Dickerson, Dewey Lee. Riley was the 7th child of Dewey and Grace.
This was the 2nd Blaine family reunion I've been to (I went in 2009), though Riley has been able to make several more (2009, 2010, 2011). Since we've been going, the reunion has been held at Louisa Chapel UMC, so we go up early enough to worship prior to the family reunion.
The messages (regular and children's [cotton candy clouds]) were good and I got to sing "The Summons", a song I've not heard since my Academy time.
It was great to catch up with family at the reunion, some we had seen earlier in August (Jan and Jay), and some we hadn't seen in quite a while (Aunt Ruth, Sylvia, Donna, Betty, all the Blaine folks).
Lots of great food and fellowship. Riley's son Sean was able to make the day trip with us, so that was good for him to visit with family and for us to visit with him.
Monday we took off for Arkansas to visit Riley's brother Bob and wife, Vickie. We stopped over in Memphis, TN for the night to see some sights and enjoyed walking all around Memphis (checking out Beale Street, the Elvis plaza, the Riverfront, the arena that was hosting WWF wrestling, etc.) that afternoon.
Tuesday we arrived in Arkansas. My brother-in-law and sister-in-law have built their home on a beautiful piece of property. They are using solar panels for electricity and rain water collected in water tanks for water. We stayed in their RV camper while their, bringing back memories from our fall break in Harlowton, Montana several years ago.
Wednesday we went into Branson, Missouri and toured the old town, heard some Ecuadorian musicians (and I enjoyed speaking Spanish), then headed back to Arkansas after eating in a Mexican restaurant converted from a Wendy's.
On Thursday we did the Blue Streak Zip at the Branson Zipline and the 100 foot freefall drop at the end. Very cool! I will admit that I didn't follow the guide's directions 100% here at the freefall. We were supposed to hold onto to our strap on the front of us with both hands. However, when I got to the edge of the platform, my instinct was to touch the railing with my left hand. That was a "no-no". Honestly, stepping off that platform was more difficult than running off the mountain tandem with the hang gliding flight instructor. I compare it to rappelling. But, it was a great adventure, nonetheless, and I'm glad I did it!
We left to head back on Friday, spending another night in Memphis. We rode the trolley into town this time and walked around some. The Peabody Hotel reminded me of the Palmer hotel in Chicago somewhat, where we once stayed. We were there too late in the evening to see the ducks, but we did hear some great piano music and catch a taste of the atmosphere as we walked through quickly.
Saturday morning we toured the Sun Studio after eating at the Blue Plate café. We got home Saturday evening.
To top off the week, we headed to church for worship and enjoyed the early morning service at our home church, Burks UMC. "A strong tower" was the focus for the worship service. Proverbs 18:10-11 were the verses. It was a powerful message and a reminder of where to keep one's focus. I kept thinking of the Kim Hill song from the 90s "Blessed be the name of the Lord".... and sure enough, I learned that they sang that song in the 2nd service. But, Riley and I had taken off right after 1st service to head to another church across town. A friend was preaching today and I wanted to be there to hear her. So, we went to St. Marks Northshore instead of Sunday School and 2nd service at our church. When we got there, I learned some friends of ours would be joining Burks UMC at the 2nd service. Hmm... this was going to be interesting.
We experienced awesome worship and powerful preaching. Love overcomes evil.
We left during the last song to try to make it back for our friends joining. We weren't sure if we could or would. But, we did. Just as we were walking in the Narthex, the Associate Pastor was introducing them and asking them to come forward. She saw us coming in the back, running. ☺ It was good to make it. The neat thing is, we got to see our neighbors down the street join at St. Marks and then our friends join at Burks.
It has been a very full week.
A very blessed week of visiting with family and friends, seeing new sights, revisiting old ones, worshiping our Lord and being encouraged by the fellowship of believers. Whew!
On another note. With all this traveling, I've been watching the leaves.
The leaves were changing in Arkansas and Missouri, but not here yet in Tennessee. We did get to see some color changes last Sunday on our way to the Blaine family reunion in the North Carolina mountains. I hope we'll see some color here in TN too. One can hope.... and wait.
I don't know what kind of week you've had. I hope your week has had some quiet time, some family time, some time with friends, some time to gaze upon the changing colors of leaves. Wherever you've been, whatever you've experienced, I hope you recognize that you're not alone on this journey. You are surrounded by people making the journey alongside you. Need a friend on the journey? Be a friend to someone else on the journey.
Blessings as you continue your journey, as you live into whatever awaits you this week.
For me, I'm looking forward to getting back into the routine and rhythm of "normal" life... whatever that means.
Debra
P.S. Though I couldn't find a version of Kim Hill singing "Blessed Be the Name of the Lord/Strong Tower", here is one version. There are others.
My husband's grandmother was a Blaine (Bertha Matilda Blaine). She married a Moffitt (John McGee). They had Grace Earl, who married a Dickerson, Dewey Lee. Riley was the 7th child of Dewey and Grace.
This was the 2nd Blaine family reunion I've been to (I went in 2009), though Riley has been able to make several more (2009, 2010, 2011). Since we've been going, the reunion has been held at Louisa Chapel UMC, so we go up early enough to worship prior to the family reunion.
The messages (regular and children's [cotton candy clouds]) were good and I got to sing "The Summons", a song I've not heard since my Academy time.
It was great to catch up with family at the reunion, some we had seen earlier in August (Jan and Jay), and some we hadn't seen in quite a while (Aunt Ruth, Sylvia, Donna, Betty, all the Blaine folks).
Lots of great food and fellowship. Riley's son Sean was able to make the day trip with us, so that was good for him to visit with family and for us to visit with him.
Monday we took off for Arkansas to visit Riley's brother Bob and wife, Vickie. We stopped over in Memphis, TN for the night to see some sights and enjoyed walking all around Memphis (checking out Beale Street, the Elvis plaza, the Riverfront, the arena that was hosting WWF wrestling, etc.) that afternoon.
Tuesday we arrived in Arkansas. My brother-in-law and sister-in-law have built their home on a beautiful piece of property. They are using solar panels for electricity and rain water collected in water tanks for water. We stayed in their RV camper while their, bringing back memories from our fall break in Harlowton, Montana several years ago.
Wednesday we went into Branson, Missouri and toured the old town, heard some Ecuadorian musicians (and I enjoyed speaking Spanish), then headed back to Arkansas after eating in a Mexican restaurant converted from a Wendy's.
On Thursday we did the Blue Streak Zip at the Branson Zipline and the 100 foot freefall drop at the end. Very cool! I will admit that I didn't follow the guide's directions 100% here at the freefall. We were supposed to hold onto to our strap on the front of us with both hands. However, when I got to the edge of the platform, my instinct was to touch the railing with my left hand. That was a "no-no". Honestly, stepping off that platform was more difficult than running off the mountain tandem with the hang gliding flight instructor. I compare it to rappelling. But, it was a great adventure, nonetheless, and I'm glad I did it!
We left to head back on Friday, spending another night in Memphis. We rode the trolley into town this time and walked around some. The Peabody Hotel reminded me of the Palmer hotel in Chicago somewhat, where we once stayed. We were there too late in the evening to see the ducks, but we did hear some great piano music and catch a taste of the atmosphere as we walked through quickly.
Saturday morning we toured the Sun Studio after eating at the Blue Plate café. We got home Saturday evening.
To top off the week, we headed to church for worship and enjoyed the early morning service at our home church, Burks UMC. "A strong tower" was the focus for the worship service. Proverbs 18:10-11 were the verses. It was a powerful message and a reminder of where to keep one's focus. I kept thinking of the Kim Hill song from the 90s "Blessed be the name of the Lord".... and sure enough, I learned that they sang that song in the 2nd service. But, Riley and I had taken off right after 1st service to head to another church across town. A friend was preaching today and I wanted to be there to hear her. So, we went to St. Marks Northshore instead of Sunday School and 2nd service at our church. When we got there, I learned some friends of ours would be joining Burks UMC at the 2nd service. Hmm... this was going to be interesting.
We experienced awesome worship and powerful preaching. Love overcomes evil.
We left during the last song to try to make it back for our friends joining. We weren't sure if we could or would. But, we did. Just as we were walking in the Narthex, the Associate Pastor was introducing them and asking them to come forward. She saw us coming in the back, running. ☺ It was good to make it. The neat thing is, we got to see our neighbors down the street join at St. Marks and then our friends join at Burks.
It has been a very full week.
A very blessed week of visiting with family and friends, seeing new sights, revisiting old ones, worshiping our Lord and being encouraged by the fellowship of believers. Whew!
On another note. With all this traveling, I've been watching the leaves.
The leaves were changing in Arkansas and Missouri, but not here yet in Tennessee. We did get to see some color changes last Sunday on our way to the Blaine family reunion in the North Carolina mountains. I hope we'll see some color here in TN too. One can hope.... and wait.
I don't know what kind of week you've had. I hope your week has had some quiet time, some family time, some time with friends, some time to gaze upon the changing colors of leaves. Wherever you've been, whatever you've experienced, I hope you recognize that you're not alone on this journey. You are surrounded by people making the journey alongside you. Need a friend on the journey? Be a friend to someone else on the journey.
Blessings as you continue your journey, as you live into whatever awaits you this week.
For me, I'm looking forward to getting back into the routine and rhythm of "normal" life... whatever that means.
Debra
P.S. Though I couldn't find a version of Kim Hill singing "Blessed Be the Name of the Lord/Strong Tower", here is one version. There are others.
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