The Envelope on the Tree

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

morning pages

Some of you may be waiting for the end of the story.

I woke up on Christmas Day to the rattling of the newspaper being read by Terry who had come back to bed returning from his early morning (3 am) route. As Terry quickly fell back to sleep I enjoyed a time that I rarely take to read the morning newspaper in bed. I was drawn to an article entitled Small donors, big hearts by Neal St. Anthony. It was about Brownie Troop 1957 who had stepped up to help the family of an African immigrant who was badly burned in a house fire. St. Anthony wrote, "We're just living by the grace of God," Gippleh said the other night at a party thrown for his kids at Hennepin county Medical Center. "My children are so grateful for this. Life is not easy right now, but I have hope." One evening in July, Roosevelt said good night to family members and walked to the attached garage to start his old junker and drive to work. The engine caught fire and Gippleh couldn't douse it. He ran inside to awaken the family, call 911 and evacuate the house, before returning to the garage, he walked into a fiery explosion that engulfed him in flames, severely burning 75 percent of his body. Neighbors pulled him from the garage and rolled him on the ground to smother the flames. Doctors doubted that he would live. After 10 weeks in a coma, Gippleh started to come around. Today, he is a walking survivor of numerous skin-grafts, living at home and doing therapy four hours a day at HCMC. His health insurer, Cigna, has paid the $842,000 tab so far for doctors and hospitalization, HCMC officials said. However, Gippleh was laid off last summer from his job. The family was iving on $220 weekly short-term disability payments that have expired. There home in Brooklyn Center is now in foreclosure due to the fact that they have been unable to make the mortgage payments for several months. Many people have helped, their neighbors, their Liberian friends, their friends from Bridgewood Community Church and yes now us. We have chosen to give the gift of the envelope on the tree to this family. Will this small gift help? Only God knows!

If you want to help ...

Gippleh's pastor has started a fund for the family at

Bridgewood Community Church

11670 Lexington Ave NE

Blaine, MN 55449

Putting the Gippleh Family In His Arms, Beth

Christmas Day 2007

"Playroom"

I am so thankful for family and fun and that is just what we enjoyed last night as we celebrated "Walker Family Christmas" in our small little townhouse. At first we thought that it would be just too small but I noticed as some gathered around the table in the kitchen, some around table in the dining room, the cousins sitting together on the couch, and as little Maggie put it so well "come to the playroom mommy" (which was our bedroom) that all were having a good time. It is wonderful to think that I am blessed with family and can enjoy a meal and fellowship together. I indeed missed some of our families who now live in California and Ohio, one who had to work at a hospital, and even one of our little ones who spent the evening in the emergency room at Children's Hospital with a virus that the doctors say "will have to run its course." Many of these family members I only see at Christmas so this is an important time for me. It is a time when I think about having lost my mom before I was able to celebrate Christmas with her and my children and grandchildren. I believe she would be so proud to see the manager scene that my dad built for her, my 2 sisters and 6 brothers displayed in our home and to know that Christ's birth is celebrated in our home through many family traditions, one of which is the "Walker Family Christmas."

Celebrating His Birth, Beth

Merry Christmas

December 24, 2007
morning pages

I love the fact that a good part of my life is worship and Spiritual Celebration. Today I celebrate with you the birth of our Savior.

Good People all, this Christmas time,
Consider well and bear in mind,
What our good God for us has done,
In sending us His beloved son!

I love you all,
Merry Christmas!

Friday, December 21, 2007
Evening Pages

OK so I am getting some harassment from family and friends for having not written for some time and also that most of my posts have a spiritual bent towards them. Well, the not writing for a while has to do with the fact that I have had a lot of school work to complete and it seems I am using all my extra time completing that type of writing. (yuk!) I also have been using other spare moments holding, loving on and playing with my new grandson who seems to be growing ever so quickly.

As for the spiritual bent ... All I can say is that I do have that tendency but .... I do think of myself as one who reads and writes to teach and teaches to read and write. I want to do this through this blog and in other creative ways.

Tonight, as I write I will teach about traditions through my own experience and in hopes of inspiring you to consider what new tradition you may start this Christmas ....

A family tradition started six years ago as my husband and I were serving with the Joni and Friends Area Ministry. My children asked me what I wanted for Christmas and that year I stated all I wanted was to give to others. This began the "Envelope on the Tree" tradition. Each year I place an envelope on our Christmas tree and the children (now adults) place money in the envelope. No one knows when and who and how much is placed there, but they do know who will receive the gift, sometime after Christmas, because it is written on the envelope. The first year we did this, the money was given to Joni and Friends, MN to be used to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to the disabled community in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Each year since I have been able to select the receiver as my Christmas gift from the kids. Because I love to give, this tradition is a favorite of mine. This year in the busyness of the season I almost forgot to put the envelope on the tree but was reminded by my daughter Carrie (who will not be with us this year for Christmas for the very first time). She asked who the envelope would be going to, because even though she would not be with us this Christmas, she had included money for the envelope in her package sent to us by mail. As of today the envelope is on the tree and does say from the Pederson's but there is no "to" yet. I am still not sure who the envelope will go to but as I pray I am open to how the Lord will lead.

In His Arms and In His will, Beth

Tuesday, December 4, 2007
morning pages

A word so clearly given to me from the Father this morning through the reading of Luke 8:48.

One small verse, yet so much power!

"Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."

"Beth, your many sins have been forgiven for you love much!"

Thank you Father!

Constantly feeling His arms, Beth

Tuesday, November 27, 2007
evening pages

so I am sitting with the Lord tonight and this is what has come to my attention to be praying for myself...

Help me to love what you love Father.
Help me to hate what you hate Father.
Help me to marvel at what you find marvelous Father.

In His Arms tonight, B.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Morning Pages

I am sure some of you have checked my blog and wondered if I had stopped writing. Well, indeed I had temporarily. It is only because of my fall on October 12th that I have not written. You see, when I fell I broke my thumb in 2 places and my whole hand has been in a cast since then. I got the cast removed and the doctor then put on a splint and just yesterday they cut the thumb down a bit on the splint. I can have the splint off for short periods of time but it is still quite painful. I plan on writing more now so keep checking my blog for updates!

Well, enough about me .... and more about Him. I am studying my way through 90 days With Jesus the One and Only a devotional by Beth Moore and loving it. Today's reading was in Mark 1 and I particularly liked verse 4, "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed."

I find early in the morning with the Lord an especially sweet time because no one else is awake at my house and I am able to find time alone with Jesus. I am working on spending more time with Jesus and less time shopping, eating, and watching TV thus my reason for starting a new day after Thanksgiving tradition .... this year I will spend half of my day on a personal prayer retreat. I'll keep you posted.

In His Arms and loving it, Beth

Tuesday, October 23, 2007
morning pages

Thank you Father that you make no mistakes with what you allow or permit to happen in my life. I trust you no matter what! Oh Father, bring me to a deeper knowledge of You and Your will for my life. In Your Arms today as always, Beth

Love Sunday

Love waking up in a nice warm bed and thanking God for this.

Love having warm water for a bath and thanking God for this.

Love praying with my friends at New Hope Church and thanking God for them.

Love Disability Ministry Sunday, my favorite Sunday of the year and thanking God for this.

Love my leaders and children in HopeWatchers and thanking God for them.

Love my lunch (leftover taco pie, made by Terry) and thanking God for this.

Love getting school work done this afternoon and thanking God for this.

Love that I could help a friend out and give her a ride to church for her evening class and thanking God for her.

Love being prayed over by Terry, Pastor Dave and Steve for the healing of my hand and thanking God for this.

Love a late Culvers dinner with my husband and thanking God for this.

Love getting into my p.j.'s and cozy bathrobe and thanking God for this.

Love saying goodnight and thanking God for that warm bed once again.

In His Arms, B.

ps forgot to say that I did not go to Honduras and His way is perfect even though it is hard at times.

Maria's Prayer Journal

I'd love to have you take the time to check out the godsightings story!

You can see and hear the story by clicking on the family and friends site entiled Evangelical Free Church of America at the right or follow the link below ...

http://www.efca.org/godsightings/2007/marias-prayer-journal-1.php

Monday, October 15, 2007

My handwritten journal from Friday, October 12th was as follows:
Oh God You are Holy and Pure. Make me holy and pure through the reading of your word.
"And the words of the Lord are flawless like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times. O Lord, You will keep me safe..." Psalm 12:6-7a
Today Father I am sore physically and overwhelmed emotionally as I think about my upcoming WFTW trip ... heal me physically ... help me to put one foot in front of the other and walk in Your Power, Spirit, and Light ...

My handwritten journal from Saturday, October 13th was as follows:
You answered much differently than I expected Lord as I tripped and fell against a cement wall at church. I was taken by ambulance to the hospital ER and later discharged with a contusion to the head and a fracture in my left thumb.
Is it not interesting how God hears and answers prayer? :-)
This is my prayer ...
"I honor You, God for making a covenant with me to reveal the fact that Your name and Your nature are to make us well. Surely Your steadfast love endures forever" (Ex.15:26, 34:10)
and "Thank you, Lord that one of the first revelations of Your nature is to heal. Your name is Jehovah Rophi, which means that the essence of who you are is to heal and make whole."
(Ex. 15:36-37)

Well, my readers I am leaving the decision up to the Lord and my doctor (who most importantly is a believer) regarding going to Honduras. I have an appointment on Wednesday, October 17th at 3:45. So ... keep praying and I will keep you posted.

In His Arms again and again, B.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007
evening pages

God has always taught me to expect the unexpected ... so several years ago while waiting for Terry to close the store at Snyder Drugs in Hopkins I sat and read a Life Magazine article about Wheels For The World.

Years later I attended a workshop led by Kathy White. The workshop was a life-planning workshop and we took time to think and pray about where we wanted to be in 1 month, 5 months, 5 years, 10 years, and before we died. During this time of reflection we covered spiritual, physical, emotional, and relational goals, hopes, and dreams. I recorded in the "Spiritual" section that before I died I wanted to serve on a Wheels For The World (WFTW) team with Joni and Friends and deliver wheelchairs to people with disabilities in developing countries.

This month, this dream will become a reality and for this I praise God! This is when I first began to think about WFTW and then just 2 years ago while walking to work and being in prayer God began to change my focus from a
Joni and Friends Ministry Associate in the area of prayer to a Joni and Friends short-term missionary with WFTW.

The word the Lord gave me was ...

Beth,

"The Spirit of the sovereign Lord is on you, because the Lord has anointed you to preach good news to the poor. He has sent you to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners." Isaiah 61:1

continuing to love these conversations while being In His Arms, B.

Love Sunday

OK so today I love Sunday because one of my kids in HopeWatchers encouraged me to put the following on my blog after sharing it with the group as an example of a letter to God so here goes ... from my handwritten journal dated, you guessed it, Sunday, October 7, 2007 ...

Oh Father, How I miss these times of just "hanging out" with you in the morning. I love having conversations (hence the name of my blog) with you where we can talk and listen to one another. You are such a blessing to me. You are always there ready to hang out but I am now often in a rush (with two new jobs and an upcoming missions trip). Help me Father, to slow down ... I lift up Terry, each one of my kids, (this includes Jacob and Joshua) and my new grandson to your throne today. Please guide, watch over and pour out Your favor on them. Keep each of them walking closely with you ... I love you Father! Your daughter, Beth

Love Sunday

Love enjoying devotions at my kitchen table before leaving for church
Love times of intimacy with my Savior
Love prayer; the act of conversation both talking and listening to God
Love music; The act of worshipping God though singing (or as my kids would say, "making a joyful noise")
Love to see the children (Hopewatchers) move into quiet corners to seek to know Christ better
Love when my grandson visits me at church
Love my new phone that now has a picture of me holding Sidney thanks to Kelley (since I don't know how to use my camera phone yet)
Love having my friend Liz bless me with an afternoon and evening off (I actually took a short nap)
Love seeing Ken and Joni this evening
Love the challenge ... "To become like Christ in His death is to get rid of self." ~Joni~
Love 2 Corinthians 1:9b

In His Arms, B.

September 29, 2007
evening pages

I could not let another day go by without blogging. I miss this time of writing so much but the last two weeks have been crazy. I have started a new job at an elementary school in the special-education department working with mostly 3rd graders and I simply love it!

This week, as I was preparing for my department interview at Crown College to get into the education program, the Lord really gave me good times with Him to think and to process some of my qualities and gifts. I did this because they were questions I was asked to prepare for my interview (which by the way went amazingly well).

I was so thankful to reflect in the following way ...
Father, thank you for being my giver of every good and perfect gift.
Thank you that you have given me the gift of faith; that any student I work with will succeed.
Thank you for the gift of giving; the giving of my time and resources and to teach the act of giving to my students.
Thank you for the gift of mercy; being able to feel with the student who struggles, the student who everyone else has given up on.
Thank you for the gift of encouragement; the act of giving praise and teaching intrinsic rewards while at times using extrinsic rewards.

Thank you for the gift of teaching. I write and read to teach and I teach to read and write. Thank you Father for the plan and purposes you have for my life.

In His Arms, Beth

Love Sunday

Love waking up to the sun

Love taking some time to read and write

Love the quiet of the morning

Love getting to church early

Love praying with friends

Love Sunday donuts (I did not get mine today)

Love Gospel Sunday worship team as lead worshippers

Love our very special "Prayer Room" at New Hope Church

Love HopeWatchers and listening to their prayers

Love meeting new people and helping them find their way around

Love getting a call from Ashley today and being able to talk for more than 3 minutes

Love having my new grandson visit me at church so I can hold him for awhile

Love getting home a bit early and taking a two hour nap

Love having pizza with Terry for dinner

Love going to bed early and being ready for the second week at my new job (this is my only explanation for not blogging last week)

Love Sunday

love catching a few extra minutes of sleep under my flannel sheets

love feeling clean after a hot water shower

love peanut butter on my whole wheat raisin toast for breakfast

love having some quiet time before going off to church

love praying with friends in the prayer room

love seeing friends, Joe and Catherine, Cheryl and Bev this morning

love the songs that Pastor Jeff put together, especially today, for our worship time

love reading and listening to the Word

love hearing the children pray

love getting one of four papers done this afternoon

love being available to serve in any way I can

Friday, September 14, 2007
evening pages

love this quote ...
His ways are best – they will bring blessings to you
His ways are right – they will bring wisdom to you
His ways are good – they will bring joy to you
His ways are faithful – they will bring rest to you.--Roy Lessin

I am in awe of Your blessing, wisdom, joy and rest.
I am in awe of Your glory, greatness, and holiness.
As I reflect on all that I have learned in the last few days studying your word, and in my Issues in Theology class at Crown College, I am so thankful that I have been made in the likeness of God. I love the analogy of the mirror as stated by my Professor last night. As I think about being made In Your Image.
I pray as I look in the mirror that I will see the "dirt" (sin) on my face and confess it.
I pray I will be in the Word so I may reflect Your Image.
I pray I will learn to reflect Your glory and Your holiness in my life.
Thank you Father that you have made me special and valuable.

What a fun day today! Just hanging out with Kelley and Sid ... Then having Adam join us and bring us lunch. It was great to just have the time together to enjoy one another's company, yet missing Lisa, Carrie, Jacob and Ashley in the mix. Then to take a nap with my new grandson sleeping on me .... heavenly!
In His Arms, Beth

Uncle Adam and Aunt Lisa
with Sidney

Grandma and Sidney

Papa Pederson

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

evening pages

Father, You are amazing, awesome and wonderful. Thank you for blessing our family with this new little one who is made in Your image .... We put Sidney In Your Arms tonight ....

Sidney Robert Larson

On Monday I received a call from Kelley stating she thought she was in labor. It was two weeks before her due date could this be the real thing! She called Josh but could not get ahold of him so she sent him a text message. After he got the message he came home and they headed to take a walk at the

Rosedale Shopping Mall.

About 5 pm she called the midwife who thought she should come in and get checked. Off they went to the hospital and at 6 pm she called me to say the midwife had asked if she wanted the good news or the good news. Indeed, she was in labor and was dilated to "6". At 7 pm the midwife broke her water and at 9:58 pm Sidney Robert Larson, weighing in at 8 pounds, 2 ounces was born.

We are praising God with the proud parents for His wonderful gift of life.

As I waited at the hospital for his arrival I was drawn to these verses in the book of Jeremiah to pray over Sidney ...

Sidney,

Before I formed you in the womb

I knew you,

Before you were born

I set you apart

I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.

Love Sunday

love waking up and having breakfast and reading my devotional book today

love the Fall crisp air this morning

love getting to church to prepare for Hopewatchers (the kids prayer team at NHC)

love praying with new and old friends in the prayer room

loved seeing Steve and Kelli Moen and Anita and their kids today

love having fun with the kids and leaders of the prayer team

love resting and reading at the desk today

love having Josh and Kelley stop by to visit with me at work

love talking with Ashley on the phone today

love Wendy's not so healthy frosty and small french fries

love getting into my flannel pajamas tonight

Saturday, September 8, 2007
evening pages

It was a good day today ... I enjoyed time spent in fellowship, training and prayer, with the leaders of "Hopewatchers" (the new name for NHC Kids Prayer Team). I wrote a list out last night before going to bed ... yes I am back to my lists but I must say occasionally rather than every day and I am pleased to say, all but one thing on my list was accomplished. Went out to dinner with Terry and we topped it off with Cold Stone coffee-lovers- like-it ice cream. So much for a sugar-free day. Well, there's always tomorrow. In His Arms as I anticipate a good nights rest in preparation for the Sabbath ... B.

Rosella

Friday September 7, 2007
yesterday, morning and afternoon pages

Yesterday was a very hard day yet God is so faithful and continues to give me grace.I had completed my temp position at Plymouth Middle School this past week and God moved me on to another service opportunity as I took care of a good friend's mother in her home. The following is my journal entry from yesterday.
morning pages
I have been and will continue to study the Deity and Humanity of Christ ...
afternoon pages
Above in my "morning pages" entry is what I planned on reading and writing some about but God had different plans ...
Unable to read,
but able to pray,
as I cared for Rosella today.

I had such a peace in my Spirit, that I was in the right place at the right time. Yesterday, (Wednesday) Rosella taught me the card game "99". We each won one game. We talked about how she was glad to be home and in her own bed with a view. She stated she really wanted to die in her sleep and without pain. Today (Thursday) we smiled and joked some as we did the 2-step-shuffle dance to move from the bed to the chair and back again. She wasn't quite up to the dance or playing cards today but we did a little standing and hugging. After giving Rosella some apple juice and water, from her bed, she asked to go for a "walk". Around 12 noon God granted her the desire of her heart as she died peacefully in her sleep and went to "walk" with her Savior for eternity. Rosella is now In His Arms .... Beth

http://www.legacy.com/Link.asp?I=LS000094004622X

Writing

September 5, 2007
evening pages

While reading The Forest for the Trees by Betsy Lerner I was struck by this statement ...

"Great writing is meant to crush us, entertain and move us, return us to ourselves with some greater understanding of the world and its workings."

I began to think about this statement and the great writings of the scriptures. Have they crushed me, moved me and taught me a greater understanding of the world and its workings?

More to think on ...

Continually In His Arms, Beth

ps (for Lisa tonight) this quote could be ... great exercise is meant to crush us, entertain and move us, return us to ourselves with some greater understanding of the world and its workings
... miss my workouts

pss (for Cheryl tonight) bummed that it was so hot and we did not get out to walk together ... I interviewed at Edinbrook and they will call Friday morning with their decision

Labor Day 2007
morning pages

in lingering on the character of God this morning and doing some of my course work reading in His word this is what I came up with ...

according to Genesis 1:1
You are creator God
according to Deuteronomy 6:4-19
You are provider God
You are the One
You are a jealous God
according to Psalm 19
You are a bridegroom God
You are a champion God
You are a wise God
You are a joy-giving God
You are a light-giving God
according to Isaiah 40:12-31
You are a counselor God
You are a strength-giving God
You are an everlasting God
according to John 1:1-5
You are the in the beginning God
You are the Word
You are the life-giving God
according to Acts 13:16-41
You are the God who makes us prosper
You are the mighty God
You are the God who judges
You are the King
You are the Savior
You are the all-forgiving God
according to Romans 11:28-36
You are a God full of mercy
according to Hebrews 4:12-13
You are an all-knowing God
according to 1 John 4:7-21
You are Love!
I can think of nothing more important in my life as a follower of Christ than to reflect on the character of God. Father, I want to move beyond mere knowledge of doctrine and encounter you. Help me to seek and find You with all my heart, soul and mind.

In His Arms, Beth

Love Sunday

Over the past few weeks of reading my niece's blog I was intrigued with her posts entitled
Love, Friday ... Since my very favorite day of the week is Sunday I thought I would begin a Love Sunday post ...

Love waking up and hearing Terry and Kelley conversations

Love showering and getting ready for church

Love that I got on the scale and have lost 6 pounds this summer (thanks for the boot camp kick in the butt Lisa)

Love having Pastor Jeff and the lead worshippers lead me into worship

Love having Kelley with me at church today and hearing her "singing" voice

Love prayer times

Love that with a

• proper view of Christ
• proper position in Christ
• proper fellowship in the body of Christ

My joy will be complete (thanks Joe for allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through you)

Love helping people find their way around and answering their questions at NHC

Love walking home from church today ... (I got my exercise Cheryl)

Love Sunday afternoon naps

Love studying God's word and sometimes like doing my homework

Love spinach salad for dinner (really!)

Love it when Terry brings home Cold Stone coffee lover's like it ice cream (hope I don't put those pounds back on)

Love when I don't have to get up in the morning (tomorrow, labor day)

Love all of you .... B.

Friday, August 31, 2007
nighttime pages

I have been reading in preparation for my Issues in Theology course work the last couple of days and wanted to post some of my reading ... many will recognize it but few may take the time to read, study, linger, on it as I have the past few days ... I pray you will linger ...

The Nicene Creed
I believe in one God the Father Almighty; maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten son of God begotten of the Father before all worlds light of light, very God of very God, begotten not made, being of one substance [essence] with the Father; by whom all things were made; who for us men and for our salvation came down from heaven and was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried, and the third day He rose again, according to the scriptures; and ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of the Father; and He shall come again, with glory, to judge both the quick and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and giver of life; who proceedeth from the Father; who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified; who spake by the prophets. And I believe in one Holy Catholic and Apostolic church. I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.

As I was lingering on this I was reminded that as a child I recited this from memory and most likely by rote but now as an adult this has deep meaning as I purpose to glorify God through my life.

It has been an interesting week. I began a list yesterday as I was feeling a bit overwhelmed by things to do and think on. At times I even journal my lists, so, here you have it from yesterday ...

Work Out
Bible Study
Pray
Blog
School Work
WFTW Letters
Write Ashley
Call Judy
Work at Plymouth Middle School
Lunch with sisters (Mary Catherine and Diane)
CM Deliveries
CM Postcard

OK so what did I actually accomplish yesterday, work out was again amazing as I ran my first 5k around Lake Calhoun during sunrise in 38 minutes and 36 seconds

Bible Study turned in to a quick Bible reading for yesterday.

Praying was unceasing which is always great to feel free to pray over all parts of my day; regret the fact that I did not do as much listening in my conversations with the Lord as I did talking.

Blog did not happen yesterday but I did write in my journal.

School work, happened at the library ... it went something like this read, study, sleep in the library chair, read, study, sleep

WFTW letters did not happen

Write Ashley did not happen but definitely will happen this weekend

Call Judy, I called and left a message today

Work at Plymouth, did happen

Lunch with my sisters was the highlight of my day. It is always so fun to get together, catch up on each other's families, eat a lot, laugh even more, share memories :-)and conversations. I won't say exactly which conversations as I promised I would not write anything that would embarrass any of us.

I think everyone should have sisters to hang out with. My sisters, because they are older have always meant so much to me. Mary Catherine, thanks for always being their when mom was gone especially when I had Lisa and really did not know what I was doing but you did. Diane, I think our brains are wired the same and because of this you understand like so many others can not. I love you both ....

CM calls made and I hope to get to the postcards out this weekend.

I almost forgot laundry and nap were not on my list but I did both yesterday and today. I am tired and I graduate boot camp with Lisa tomorrow with a bike/run at 6 am so I need my sleep ... Blessings Family and Friends!

In His Arms, b.

Wednesday, August 29, 2007
nighttime pages

I want to write tonight yet it is just random thoughts going through my head so hopefully I will not disappoint my readers which goes to show you I write for myself ... some thoughts

bike ride around Cedar lake this morning during sunrise was an amazing display of God's glory
seeing and talking with my friend Catherine is always good
praying for my friend Katie and hoping her new job is going well
talking with Scott, police officer at Plymouth Middle School and telling him how well Ashley is doing at basic training
working at Plymouth Middle School in a temp position is OK
taking a nap, love it
having coffee with Kelley was so fun
going to uptown to a paper store and buying a new journal was great
shopping for healthy foods at Whole Foods was wholesome
meeting Terry for dinner, he ate, I talked, was important time shared together
getting a call from my sister to do lunch tomorrow, I am looking forward to this
talking with Carrie on the phone and laughing hard, I did not pee my pants :-), super fun
taking a bath to ease the pain of all my sore muscles, ouch
f inishing a book and starting a new one, in the bath tub of course
and now closing this entry and going to bed.
I'll be reading Psalm 29 and I suggest you do the same ...
In His Arms tonight ... until tomorrow, B.

Happy Birthday Jacob

You are an amazing

son-in-law!

We love you very much ... T&B

Saturday, August 25, 2007
evening pages

This fall as I find myself in still a different season of life I have been drawn to reading and writing more. Yesterday as I sat in my living room, on my comfy couch, catching a few moments to read I picked up The Contemporary Christian by John Stott. I found in his chapter on Guidance, Vocation and Ministry some things all are called to ...
fellowship with Jesus
freedom
peace
holiness
witness
suffering
and glory
My calling is to be a follower of Christ, a wife, a mother, and soon to be grandmother. Even though Terry and I were not Christians before we entered into marriage I believe this was part of the calling known by God when he called us to spend our life together as husband and wife. We are beginning to redefine our time spent together, as now, all of our adult children are no longer living in our home. Also, most recently after numerous interviews He has called me to Borders Bookstore part-time, back to Plymouth Middle School for some subbing and serving through home care those who are older with health concerns. Thank you faithful readers for your prayers. It has been an interesting journey and I am excited to move forward.
In His Arms, Beth

Thursday, August 23, 2007
morning pages

I had a great conversation with Lisa 2 nights ago .... about what I am passionate about ...
writing and teaching and teaching through writing. I love how she keeps encouraging me to go towards my dream, my passion. Individuals pay top dollar to have a life/fitness coach like Lisa. I am blessed to have her for a daughter, and life/fitness coach. Because of her I am running towards my writing goals today to write to teach and to teach to write. One can learn so much about oneself and others through the power of writing/journaling.

I learned much this week as I am in training preparing for a new part-time job. The role of the trainer/teacher is of utmost importance. When someone is brand new at something weather it is a job, an exercise program, a food plan ... whatever it may be encouragement is essential. Think on this ...Let's say you have gone to the doctor and he/she has put you on an eating plan to lower your blood pressure. He wants you to try this for 1 week and then return to the office. You do great for the first 2 days, and then when no one is watching, you go off the plan ...
I think you're getting the picture ... When I am tempted to "go off the plan", stop exercising, stop writing, or get discouraged because I am not learning the "new job" fast enough (oh and what about fast? do things need to be learned fast? Does one need to run fast? sorry, this topic I'll save for another day) encouragement is essential.

Today,
I encourage you to look inside yourself and find your passion
I encourage you to "work the plan and plan to work"
I encourage you to "go slow"
I encourage you to pray more
I encourage you to linger in His Presence
I encourage you to read His Word and to walk in His Spirit
I encourage you friends, for encouragement is essential!

In His Arms today as always, B.

Tuesday, August 21, 2007
morning pages

My word from the Lord today that I pass on to you my readers is:

"But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge. I will tell of His deeds." Psalm 73:28

May His word bring encouragement to your heart today as you seek Him.

In His Arms, Beth

Monday, August 20, 2007
morning pages

As I attended a Mom's In Touch International gathering on Saturday and a Sunday worship service at New Hope Church yesterday I had opportunity to sing some of the Hymns of the past. I love that many of these hymns come right from the scriptures. This morning during my quiet time I was drawn to my Favorite Hymns of Praise hymn book. As i paged through the pages I stopped at O Worship the King.
This was my prayer of praise this morning ....
O worship the King,
all glorious above,
and gratefully sing,
His wonderful love;
our shield and defender,
the ancient of days,
pavilioned in splendor,
and girded with praise.
Frail children of dust,
and feeble as frail,
in Thee do we trust,
nor find Thee to fail;
Thy mercies how tender!
How firm to the end!
Our Maker, Defender,
Redeemer and Friend.
After singing this hymn of praise to my Lord this morning I turned and prayed through Psalm 104 which you may notice is the basis for this song. I find it so important to start my prayer time with worship-based prayers. It seems even more important on days like today that are cloudy, drizzly, and rainy. As I dug deeper in Psalm 104:3-5 there is a purpose for the clouds and it is not to feel crabby or down but rather "He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind. He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants. He set the earth on its foundations; it can never moved."
I know without a shadow of doubt that whatever we may be going through personally God desires us to be agents of praise (even on the Minnesota Cloudy days).

In His Everlasting Arms, Beth

Friday, August 17, 2007
afternoon pages

Today as I was studying the historical context of Psalm 46 in 2 Kings 18-19, reading the letter sent to Hezekiah, I was moved to read on and discover Hezekiah's response of "spreading it out before the Lord" 2 Kings 19:14-15. I love the way he came before the Lord "O Lord, God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth ... " WOW! What a picture of the Lord this gives me ... this same Lord, who in Psalm 46 becomes, rather is, our refuge and strength. This is for me, such a comforting picture, of the mighty God's sustaining presence, over our nation, our state, our city, our home and my life, as it now presents itself. As I have continued to "be still and know that You are God" Psalm 46:10 You have impressed upon me the importance of trusting You over and over again.

As for the job hunt faithwalk, 3 weeks, 9 interviews later; I have continued to trust God because of your prayers ... with 3 very different job offers then I expected, and waiting on 1 more interview and 1 more second interview next week, I continue to covet your prayers as I "spread it out before the Lord". Would you pray for wisdom and for His plan and purpose for my life. Most of the time, enjoying the wait In His Arms, Beth.

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

afternoon pages

I love to pray God's word back to Him ... today John 15

I'm pressing in Father and I'm staying connected to you the Vine. Please cut off every branch in me that bears no fruit. prune every branch that bears fruit so that it may be even more fruitful. Continue to help me remain in you and have Your words continue to remain in me. May whatever is given to me be to Your glory, may I obey Your commands, and may Your joy be in me. Thank you Father, for calling me Friend. Thank You Father, for choosing me. May I bear fruit that lasts.

Father would you be with our US soldiers especially Ashley. May the God of all hope fill Ashley, along with all our troops and every military family with all joy and peace as they trust in You. May they abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13)

In His Arms, B.

Tuesday, August 14,2007
evening pages

I have been reading, studying and mediating on a number of scriptures today like Exodus 15:1-3 where the LORD is a warrior and I was reminded that as I am tempted to be discouraged about not receiving a job offer after several interviews that You are the one who wins the battle of the mind. Friends, if you are struggling these are great verses.

Then I turned the pages to Psalm 40: 1-3 where I can say after reading these verses and lingering long on them ... "Thank You, Thank you .I will continue to wait patiently and I will put my trust in You and finally in Psalm 96:1-6 I will meditate on all Your mighty acts and I will proclaim your glory to all the nations.

When things seem so unsettled God and His promises are so solid and settling.

I had an opportunity to have a good young friend, Emily pray for me and my job situation today. Thank you Emily! Well, I asked you all to pray and I would keep you posted so I have had 6 interviews and 5 calls back that I interviewed well and it was a hard choice but another person was selected.

What's great is that He knows the plans He has for me ... I trust him tonight and I will sleep in peace. In His Arms for the night, Beth

Monday, August 13, 2007
morning pages

Just want to jot a quick entry while it's on my mind. I had another amazing work-out today with Morgan. I can't say enough about boot-camp .... it has changed my life physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I am promoting it and you can find out more as you check out Balance Fitness Studio on my friends list at your right. Years ago I desired balance in my life and I thought I had it. Now I know I am closer to my goal of having physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. Thanks Morgan and Lisa! You go girls!

more later ....

In His Arms and at the mercy of Morgan and Lisa's workouts (just kidding)

Saturday, August 11, 2007
morning pages

Computers ... sometimes they can be a good thing. Other times they can be troublesome and just to keep the record straight the troubleshooting button doesn't always work like the computer geeks say ... suffice that be the reason for no entries online the last couple of days for my readers (Lisa)

Well, yesterday Terry and I celebrated 34 years of marriage. I truly believe this to be a testimony of God's mercy and grace over us as a couple. These years have not always been easy but God has carried us through with His strength, power and might. When we first got married Terry and I both had religion but neither of us had a relationship with Christ. After our first daughter was born I experienced a deep depression. It was a difficult time and yet it was at this point I was brought to my knees in my friend, Jan's living room and invited Christ to be my Lord and Savior. I found myself face to face for the first time with Jesus. At this time Terry returned to the faith of his youth and recommitted his life to Jesus. Shortly after Terry and I were baptized together.

I love what Jesus says in his word about husbands and wives. That I, as Terry's wife am to submit ... that I would submit to Terry as an act of submission to the Lord. And that Terry would devote himself to my good and he would love me just as Christ loved the church. (Terry does this in so many ways)
"For this reason a man will leave His father and mother and be united to his wife and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery ~ but I am talking about Christ and the church. however, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." Ephesians 5:31-33

As anniversaries go
sometimes it's gifts ...flowers, chocolate, jewelry.
sometimes it's time spent away together at a Bed and Breakfast and
sometimes it's time spent just enjoying being present together
like last night ...

a beautiful evening
at Sunsets in Wayzata
having dinner overlooking
lake Minnetonka
lingering in the company
and quiet of one another
and walking to
Ben and Jerry's ice cream shop
for cone's with favorite flavors (heath bar for me and butter pecan for Terry)
only to land quietly sitting on a wooden bench
watching the boats travel the water in the evening sky

I Love you Terry and I love being in your presence. Thanks for being who God created you to be. B.

August 8, 2007
morning pages


One might wonder how you can see God in everything but it is true when I find myself on a personal search for God I end up having a personal conversation with Him that sometimes goes like this ...

God, I am thanking you for the work of Your hands in the sunrise today. It was beautiful and the different red hues You used were breathtaking. Oh God, and Bootcamp warm-up at Lake Calhoun as I looked upon the calm water it reminded me of the calmness that You have given me in my spirit. When running I always think about how I can run hard after You. But today, You gave me a poignant picture of Family during my recovery walk. On the path in front of me were two birds. Mind you, I don't really know my birds, but they seemed to be doves. They were walking the path together, side by side as I do with my husband Terry (somewhat leisurely). Then suddenly another bird flew in, and the three walked together picking up their pace. I believed this to be a picture, You gave me of Lisa joining Terry and I, and training us, to have a desire to have healthy bodies, through exercise. Finally, several birds (the rest of our children) joined the three of us. Thank you Father, for this picture of faith and family you gave me through your many wonders. You are a personal God and I love that about You ... More Later. In Your arms today as always ....B

p.s. the words in bold are bootcamp drills

August 7, 2007
morning pages

Today I started out in a different portion of the scriptures. I went to my Bible study and studied from the chapter When I am Losing the Battle, from Pilgrimage of the Heart from Quiet Time Ministries. Before and after studying this passage though I was drawn back to meditating further on Psalm 40:5. In fact, it started at the top of the hill while I was at bootcamp and I looked to the wonders of God's Creation. The wonders, you God, have done, the trees and sky and grass. After doing bootcamp early 6 am (this includes a 5 am wake up call to arrive at Kenwood park by 6 am) I returned home to a nice warm shower. I thought again of the "wonder" of warm water and I began to pray for my South African friends who have no clean fresh water. I then sat down and prayed some prayers for my kids from The Power of the Praying Parent by Stormie Omartian (another favorite book) while eating my breakfast; granola and milk. Even the grains in the granola tasted good and wonder-ful today. This has not always been the case in fact ... As I meditated on this verse it brought me understanding - showing me my shortcomings of not appreciating all God has given me and even complaining about the food God has provided. How sorry I am for complaining and taking many of these things for granted ... In His Arms, Beth

August 6, 2007
evening pages

It was a busy day today and when I have days where I know ahead of time there will be busyness I try to get an early start with the Lord. Just to let you know that I am human and this does not always seem to work out. Today I began my day with bootcamp, an exercise program that I will be doing for the next 2 weeks, 6 days a week. After finishing up at bootcamp I needed to get a car to my son Adam so we decided to meet up for coffee at Caribou.

One might think that this business of having coffee is a busyness but it was some down time for Adam and I to reconnect and even spend time sharing about the Lord and what he is doing in our lives. This is that intentional being devoted instead of just having devotions.

Although when I arrived back home I did sit with the scriptures. I got stuck a bit on Psalm 40:5 "Many, O LORD my God are the wonders which You have done, and Your thoughts toward us (me); there is none to compare with You if I would declare and speak of them, they would be too numerous to count." I began to think on this verse trying to picture what it would be like to be truly declaring and speaking of Your wonders. What would happen if every time a negative thought came to my mind I began to think on Your wonders? What if every time I began to think about food or what I would eat next I began to think on Your wonders? What if every time I sat down to watch the news, Oprah, a movie, Grey's Anatomy I began to think on Your wonders? Are you beginning to get the idea.

Today Father in all that I am, I do, I speak, I think, I watch, I read may I testify to Your greatness.

On a lighter note I had 2 good interviews today. As you keep praying I will keep you posted.
~God is good all the time, all the time God is good~ In His Arms, Beth

August 5, 2007
evening pages

What a wonderful time spent together this past weekend with my daughter Lisa. We traveled together to a Bed and Breakfast in St. Cloud. When we arrived we were shown to our cozy room by the innkeeper, Louie. After showing us our room he led us out to the upper porch, where we spent our first hour and a half, Lisa working on her program planning while I studied for my PRAXIS exam. Later we got ready to go out for dinner. We drove to a quaint little restaurant overlooking a small river. We found a spot for two and enjoyed a delicious dinner with lots of time to talk and enjoy one another's company. When we were done with dinner we returned to the B&B.

What a fun weekend of laughing, listening, eating, sleeping, just loving one another and being in each other's presence.

Thank you Lord for blessing me with my daughter and this time we were able to spend together. We were truly in Your arms, B.

Saturday, August 4, 2007
evening pages

God help me linger with you ..........
Your daughter, Beth

Friday, August 3, 2007
afternoon pages

For you Lord, are a great God; and a great King above all gods. I rejoice, I thank and I worship you Lord for all Your many blessings.

I have my PRAXIS reading test in the morning and for those who have been following my blog I have a job interview on Monday at 12 noon and another one on Tuesday at 1 pm.

Increase faith within me, O LORD. For my faith to grow I must be put into situations where I need resources beyond myself.

I seek you and I trust you ... thanks for hearing my prayers ...

In His Arms, Beth

Thursday August 2, 2007
evening pages

I received this message from my daughter in California who called last night to see if we were all OK. This is so good...Carrie I can't be there tonight to tuck you in but Jesus is with you always .... I love you more .... mom

Putting My Daughter to Bed Two Hours After the Bridge Collapsed
What Do Tragedies Like This Mean for Us?
Download:
By John Piper August 1, 2007

At about 6 PM tonight the bridge of Interstate 35W over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis collapsed. I am writing this about three hours after the bridge fell. The bridge is located within sight of Bethlehem Baptist Church. Most of us who minister at the church cross this bridge several times a week. At this point I don’t know if any staff was on the bridge. Desiring God offices are about a mile from the bridge.
There are no firm facts at this point about the total number of injuries and fatalities. When we crossed the bridge Tuesday on our way out of town, there was extensive repair work happening on the surface of the bridge with single lane traffic. One speculates about the unusual stresses on the bridge with jackhammers and other surface replacement equipment. This was the fortieth anniversary of the bridge.
Tonight for our family devotions our appointed reading was Luke 13:1-9. It was not my choice. This is surely no coincidence. O that all of the Twin Cities, in shock at this major calamity, would hear what Jesus has to say about it from Luke 13:1-5. People came to Jesus with heart-wrenching news about the slaughter of worshipers by Pilate. Here is what he said.
There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answered them, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish."
Jesus implies that those who brought him this news thought he would say that those who died, deserved to die, and that those who didn’t die did not deserve to die. That is not what he said. He said, everyone deserves to die. And if you and I don’t repent, we too will perish. This is a stunning response. It only makes sense from a view of reality that is radically oriented on God.
All of us have sinned against God, not just against man. This is an outrage ten thousand times worse than the collapse of the 35W bridge. That any human is breathing at this minute on this planet is sheer mercy from God. God makes the sun rise and the rain fall on those who do not treasure him above all else. He causes the heart to beat and the lungs to work for millions of people who deserve his wrath. This is a view of reality that desperately needs to be taught in our churches, so that we are prepared for the calamities of the world.
The meaning of the collapse of this bridge is that John Piper is a sinner and should repent or forfeit his life forever. That means I should turn from the silly preoccupations of my life and focus my mind’s attention and my heart’s affection on God and embrace Jesus Christ as my only hope for the forgiveness of my sins and for the hope of eternal life. That is God’s message in the collapse of this bridge. That is his most merciful message: there is still time to turn from sin and unbelief and destruction for those of us who live. If we could see the eternal calamity from which he is offering escape we would hear this as the most precious message in the world.
We prayed during our family devotions. Talitha (11 years old) and Noel and I prayed earnestly for the families affected by the calamity and for the others in our city. Talitha prayed “Please don’t let anyone blame God for this but give thanks that they were saved.” When I sat on her bed and tucked her in and blessed her and sang over her a few minutes ago, I said, “You know, Talitha, that was a good prayer, because when people ‘blame’ God for something, they are angry with him, and they are saying that he has done something wrong. That’s what “blame” means: accuse somebody of wrongdoing. But you and I know that God did not do anything wrong. God always does what is wise. And you and I know that God could have held up that bridge with one hand.” Talitha said, “With his pinky.” “Yes,” I said, “with his pinky. Which means that God had a purpose for not holding up that bridge, knowing all that would happen, and he is infinitely wise in all that he wills.”
Talitha said, “Maybe he let it fall because he wanted all the people of Minneapolis to fear him.” “Yes, Talitha,” I said, “I am sure that is one of the reasons God let the bridge fall.”
I sang to her the song I always sing,
Come rest your head and nestle gentlyAnd do not fear the dark of night.Almighty God keeps watch intently,And guards your life with all his might.Doubt not his love, nor power to keep,He never fails, nor does he sleep.
I said, “You know, Talitha, that is true whether you die in a bridge collapse, or in a car accident, or from cancer, or terrorism, or old age. God always keeps you, even when you die. So you don’t need to be afraid, do you.” “No,” she shook her head. I leaned down and kissed her. “Good night. I love you.”
Tonight across the Twin Cities families are wondering if they will ever kiss a loved one good night again. Some will not. I am praying that they will find Jesus Christ to be their Rock and Refuge in these agonizing hours of uncertainty and even loss.
The word “bridge” does not occur in the Bible. There may be two reasons. One is that God doesn’t build bridges, he divides seas. The other is that usually his people must pass through the deadly currents of suffering and death, not simply ride over them. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you” (Isaiah 43:2). They may drown you. But I will be with you in life and death.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life . . . will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35-38)
Killed all day long. But not separated from Christ. We go through the river. Not over it. He went before us, crucified. He came out on the other side. He knows the way through. With him we will make it. That is the message we have for the precious sinners in the Twin Cities. He died for your sins. He rose again. He saves all who trust him. We die, but because of him, we do not die.
Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” (John 11:25)
Talitha is sleeping now. But one day she will die. I teach her this. I will not always be there to bless her. But Jesus is alive and is the same yesterday today and forever. He will be with her because she trusts him. And she will make it through the river.
Weeping with those who weep, and those who should,
Pastor John
Psalm 71:20 You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again.

Thursday, August 2, 2007
morning prayer

Oh Father God,
How thankful I am for the way you have created me. I do praise You because You are to be feared. I know in my heart that everything You do is wonderful. You carefully put me together in my mother's womb and gifted me in many ways. You even knew that this would be a time of searching for a job for me. Thank you for being my All-knowing, All-loving, Almighty, Father. I Love you so much! Your daughter, Beth

August 2, 2007
morning pages

After writing last night I turned on our TV due to the urging of my daughter and saw this unbelievable scene of the collapse of a bridge. All of a sudden my lack of a job or knowing what His plans are for me were no longer important. I received the following e-mail from another one of my friends and I pass this on to you today so you too may bring these requests before the Lord. More later friends ....Oh Father as I sign off now In His Arms may you hold all of these people mentioned below in Your arms today...
PTM Prayer Alert

35W Bridge Collapses over Mississippi River

Prayer Transformation Ministries
Our Mission Prayer Transformation Ministries provides Christ-centered awareness, training, and equipping for personal and societal transformation.
Contact us: Prayer Transformation Ministries701 Fourth Ave. S. Suite 750 Minneapolis. MN 55415612-288-2206

Shortly after 6:00 pm today the 35W freeway bridge over the Mississippi River (near downtown Minneapolis during rush hour) has collapsed completely into the river.
Although details are yet to come in, we are asking you to pray earnestly for this immediate need in our city.
Pray for fire and rescue to be able to reach those in need. Pray for the injured as they await rescue.
Pray for protection for those involved in trying to rescue people in difficult circumstances, including debris and heat.
Pray for the families of those who have been caught in this collapse.
Pray for the Lord's peace for those involved, especially the injured people needing medical attention.
This is an appeal for you to pass this prayer alert to all you know that would pray for this immediate situation.Let's serve our community as intercessors before the Throne of God on their behalf. Thank you for praying.
Your servant in Christ, Steve Loopstra
Prayer Transformation Ministries
email: ptm@prayertransformation.com
phone: 612-288-2206
web: http://www.prayertransformation.com

August 1, 2007
evening pages

One verse of study has become my focus today "How long will you hide your face from me?" Psalm 13:1. I noticed as I studied this verse that there was a subtitle in The Jerusalem Bible entitled a confident appeal. This subtitle says a lot, maybe even appeals to me to know, as a pilgrim that there is great value in me knowing, being confident that when He seems to be hiding His face, He's not. But rather He's wanting me to pursue a state of maturity rather than going back to the basics of Christianity.

Digging a bit deeper I read Hebrews 5:7-10 and have found the application for me today is that obedience (I am doing this while waiting to hear back about jobs) sometimes comes through suffering which currently for me is the waiting and the unknown. "Call unto me, and i will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not." Jeremiah 33:3

On a lighter note I because of my free time I enjoyed ...

a walk with Cheryl
breakfast with my best friend, and husband Terry, out back by our garden
a movie with Kelley #4 child and her friend Sarah
shopping at Target for Ashley's #5 child's birthday
a letter from Ashley (she is at boot camp, Army National Guard and I miss her a lot)
and early dinner at home
coffee with my friend Katie (it's always good to check in and keep one another accountable)
study time with the Lord at the Library

Tomorrow ... In His Arms, Beth

Tuesday, July 31, 2007
morning pages


Today my scripture reading was Psalm 95 and I have continued to think on worship. Father God, I do indeed sing a new song to you today. Psalm 95 is my song of worship today ... Oh Father, You are worthy to be adored and worshiped. Come let me bow down in worship. Let me kneel before you, my LORD, and maker.

I am reminded this morning after reading and thinking that there can be obstacles to worship. One obstacle can be sin in my life. Lord Jesus, give me a deeper repentance and remorse for the sin in my life. Continue to keep me mindful that I must ask often for forgiveness because being in a right relationship with You is of utmost importance to my walk with You.

As I went to fill-in at the front desk today at New Hope Church (another favorite link above) I thought about how I could make my work a form of worship. I believe I am worshiping God when I am serving others. So today, I was mindful of ways I could serve others.

I am still continuing to wait on God in the area of a job and in the meantime I am continuing with my education at Crown College. In fact, I will be taking the first of 3 PRAXIS tests this Saturday. I am studying hard and desire to do my best. I am trusting God to be with me during this time and I am praying ..."if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God who will give it liberally."

I'll keep you posted....In His Arms, Beth