Friday, March 28, 2008
Nanoo
I posted a personal blog on our family blog today and I think it really speaks my heart, so check it out and I hope it speaks to you. www.hickmanhappenings.blogspot.com
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
An Adopted Family
Almost 19 years ago, my family, while living in Venezuela, was approached by a pastor who knew of a 15 year old girl that was due to have a baby "any day." Knowing that we had expressed an interest in adopting a child, he contacted us. Already having two girls in our family - myself and my sister, Missy - we were kind of thinking of adding a boy to the mix. The baby due to be born, however, was thought to be a girl, but we didn't care. We wanted to proceed on.From the time we were approached, to the time this baby girl was born, we had about a week and a half to prepare for her arrival. My parents were 40 at the time, and in the event they are reading this...they are STILL 40...not a day over it! :) You can imagine that we didn't have the first thing for a baby in our home. I was 15 1/2 and Missy was 13. Our baby stroller, crib, and diaper days were over! We called on our missionary family to help us out and everyone rallied together to provide what they could so that we could welcome a new bundle of joy into our home.
The day came to welcome this new little girl, named Esther, because that was her biological mother's and grandmother's name...and also the name these two women studied about in the Bible when they prayed to receive Christ and desired to see this baby put in a Christian home. Baby Esther was born right at 5 lbs., and quite literally was the smallest baby I had ever seen. Being a family of giants, you can imagine how small she looked in our arms. I remember my parents bringing her home and I was overtaken by love that I didn't think I possessed for one that was not blood related to me, yet penetrated the very core of my heart with a love that only sisters can know. I was, without a doubt, smitten with this baby! I thought I would be afraid to have her come into my life, but all of that was swept away when she was placed in my arms and I gazed on her jet black hair, dark eyes, and olive skin. She was MY baby sister and I, at that moment, would have done anything in the world for her. We named her Kathryn Elizabeth Ann Cashion. She became "one of us." She did not, for one second, ever NOT belong to our family. God made her just for us to love and cherish all the days of her life.
Remembering this time gives me great joy because God, too, made us His own. He created us in our "mother's wombs" and "knew all the days ordained for us before one of them ever came to be." He becomes our ABBA, Father...our Daddy...when we allow Him to take up residence in our home. Just like Katie became a resident of our home, God has done the same for us. He sent His Son, Jesus, to take up residence in our hearts (our home)...to become love to us in a way like none other could give it. You know, we had not even seen, heard or held Katie and yet we loved her. In the physical sense, we have not seen, heard or held Jesus, yet we, too, can love Him. With faith and trust in the One who gives us life, we have One that wants to know us and love us unconditionally. Are you feeling without a home today? Do you feel like your dwelling place is not a dwelling place at all? Are you characterizing your day, or your life by lonliness? Grab hold of the One who loves you most. Call, cry out, bawl like a baby for your Lord today. He is there to fill you up, to make you whole.
Katie continues to be a blessing to our family today. The love just keeps growing and growing for her. God does the same. He never stops being the ultimate love giver. Take some time today to let Him wrap His arms around you and just be His child. He wants to be your Daddy.
Friday, March 21, 2008
He's Alive
Just wanted to take some time to encourage you to relect on what this weekend really means to you. I tell ya, being a part of The Witness last weekend was just what I needed to help me focus on what my Jesus did for me. I have found myself dwelling on it ever since. At the same time, why did it take that experience for me to dwell on it all? Oh, that I would remember the sacrifice that Jesus made for me each and everyday. It truly overwhelms me. I don't know of another time that makes such a mark on my life as Easter. I love Christmas and remembering the gift of God's son for all mankind, but it is Easter that brings me to my knees in such great humility for my Savior. He died for me! And I know that even if it was just me that was put on this earth, He still would've died for me! You know, it's hard to wrap your mind around that sometimes. If you are reading this today and you have never truly grasped just what Jesus did for you, take some time to ponder these things today. Not only did God send His one and only Son to die for us, but Praise the Lord, he rose again, too! We weren't left to be alone, but He gave us His Holy Spirit, "a counselor, to be with us forever...the Spirit of Truth." Ladies, we have been given it ALL. We have been offered love's perfect gift. It is always there for the taking. Choose it today. Maybe you are reading this and you needed to know today that someone was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for you and you want to know more. Well, it's your day because I want to tell you more! Inviting Jesus into your life to reign and rule is simple. The Bible says it just takes a "childlike faith." Don't go another day thinking you have to live this life on your own. He is waiting and ready for you today. It was 27 years ago this coming summer that I exerted that "childlike faith" and accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior. What does a seven year old really know other than what is simple enough for them to understand? All I knew was that I felt alone and that something in my life was missing. Yes, my Daddy was (and is) a pastor. I was raised in a loving Christian home. I grew up in Church. All those things, of course, contributed to me wanting to know more about this Savior who had come to save me. It was, however, the steadfastness of a Sunday School teacher, who willingly, lovingly, and simply shared that "Jesus Loves Me" that ultimately made me realize that this was the gift. This was what was missing.
So, I dropped the guard of fear I possessed as a little seven year old girl and I went forward to tell anyone that would listen that I was accepting that gift. I wanted Jesus in my life. The road since has been full of bumps and it was a curvy road, but ultimately, ladies...I didn't do it alone. My Father, God, has always been there to guide me, to fill me up, to show me the way! I could've stopped right then when I invited Jesus into my life, but let me say...NO WAY, NO HOW! I don't want to stop. I want to live for Him, just like He lives for me! I want to KNOW Him. I want to SERVE Him. I want to TELL everyone about Him. Hey, He saved me! He wants everyone to know it! So, let Jesus be Lord of your life today. If you need someone that can help you, write me. It would be my honor today to introduce you to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! Email me at jeffamy111@netzero.net
So, I dropped the guard of fear I possessed as a little seven year old girl and I went forward to tell anyone that would listen that I was accepting that gift. I wanted Jesus in my life. The road since has been full of bumps and it was a curvy road, but ultimately, ladies...I didn't do it alone. My Father, God, has always been there to guide me, to fill me up, to show me the way! I could've stopped right then when I invited Jesus into my life, but let me say...NO WAY, NO HOW! I don't want to stop. I want to live for Him, just like He lives for me! I want to KNOW Him. I want to SERVE Him. I want to TELL everyone about Him. Hey, He saved me! He wants everyone to know it! So, let Jesus be Lord of your life today. If you need someone that can help you, write me. It would be my honor today to introduce you to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! Email me at jeffamy111@netzero.net
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Allison
Today, I conclude introducing you to the Aroma Team by having you get to know Allison Taylor.
Allison is someone I have known for around 2 years or so, but someone I really feel I have gotten to know more over the past year. Allison's husband, Junior, has been someone especially dear to my husband, Jeff. Without a doubt, it has been Junior whom God has used to encourage Jeff when he needed it the most. Most times that encouragement came because God told him to do it, and that is what made it all the more special - just knowing that God inspired it.
When we met Allison, it was because Junior told us that he had found someone special and had begun dating. Being the private guy he is, when he actually wanted us to meet this special someone, we figured it had to be a big deal. We went on a double date with Junior and Allison to PF Changs, which I can now thank them for putting that restaurant up at the top of my favorites list. We had a wonderful time getting to know Allison more and seeing firsthand why Junior thought so much of her. Jeff and I had the honor of later attending their wedding ceremony and sharing in that special day with them. It has been a joy to watch these two families come together and put God first, then each other, and then the children. They truly love one another, and out of that pours a love for those God puts in their lives.
Over this past year, I have watched Allison pour herself into others. You may not always know exactly what Allison is up to, but many times it's because of Allison that special things may randomly come into your life. Oftentimes, it is Allison that initiates a special surprise for someone, just because she has seen that person needs a special touch in their life. Anytime you need to bless someone with a meal, Allison is always more than willing to help. And more times than not, it is Allison who brings that one in need that we might not notice, to our attention. She has an unbelievable gift of mercy.
It's been a joy to have Allison on the Aroma Team. She is our newest member, and she has come in full steam ahead. Her hands were all over Ladies' Retreat, but my guess is that many of you never knew just what exactly is was she organized, because she is just one of those people that is behind the scenes, handing out the special touches, making things shine. Right now, Allison is in prayer about an exciting new ministry, and I can't wait for the day that we can share that with you. For now, though, look for Allison to be a busy bee. She will be the one that goes that extra mile to serve you.
Allison is the wife of Junior, mother of Adam and Jackson and special Allison to Jared, Nathan, and Summer. She is a good friend, faithful servant and lover of her Lord!
Allison is someone I have known for around 2 years or so, but someone I really feel I have gotten to know more over the past year. Allison's husband, Junior, has been someone especially dear to my husband, Jeff. Without a doubt, it has been Junior whom God has used to encourage Jeff when he needed it the most. Most times that encouragement came because God told him to do it, and that is what made it all the more special - just knowing that God inspired it.
When we met Allison, it was because Junior told us that he had found someone special and had begun dating. Being the private guy he is, when he actually wanted us to meet this special someone, we figured it had to be a big deal. We went on a double date with Junior and Allison to PF Changs, which I can now thank them for putting that restaurant up at the top of my favorites list. We had a wonderful time getting to know Allison more and seeing firsthand why Junior thought so much of her. Jeff and I had the honor of later attending their wedding ceremony and sharing in that special day with them. It has been a joy to watch these two families come together and put God first, then each other, and then the children. They truly love one another, and out of that pours a love for those God puts in their lives.
Over this past year, I have watched Allison pour herself into others. You may not always know exactly what Allison is up to, but many times it's because of Allison that special things may randomly come into your life. Oftentimes, it is Allison that initiates a special surprise for someone, just because she has seen that person needs a special touch in their life. Anytime you need to bless someone with a meal, Allison is always more than willing to help. And more times than not, it is Allison who brings that one in need that we might not notice, to our attention. She has an unbelievable gift of mercy.
It's been a joy to have Allison on the Aroma Team. She is our newest member, and she has come in full steam ahead. Her hands were all over Ladies' Retreat, but my guess is that many of you never knew just what exactly is was she organized, because she is just one of those people that is behind the scenes, handing out the special touches, making things shine. Right now, Allison is in prayer about an exciting new ministry, and I can't wait for the day that we can share that with you. For now, though, look for Allison to be a busy bee. She will be the one that goes that extra mile to serve you.
Allison is the wife of Junior, mother of Adam and Jackson and special Allison to Jared, Nathan, and Summer. She is a good friend, faithful servant and lover of her Lord!
Monday, March 17, 2008
Jennifer
Today, we continue getting to know the rest of the Aroma Team. Join me today and meet Jennifer Greene. I met Jennifer about 2 years ago, I think it was. My husband, Jeff, had visited her husband, Jeff, and became fast friends with him. They began attending the church where my husband was pastoring. It really wasn't until we began LifeSong, however, that I got to know Jennifer more. All of us in the core group of LifeSong were a part of watching Jennifer's tummy expand with who we now know as Brady! Each week we bombarded her with questions of "how much longer until he comes?" "Will your shoes fit you much longer?" "What are you craving this week?" And so on and so forth. We surprised her with a diaper shower and one of her favorite meals one night at housechurch, all of us very excited to watch Jen become a first time Mommy!
It has been a journey we've taken with Jen, and one that has led her personally to see a calling God has put on her life to invest in the lives of other moms. In her own personal journey to discovering it is that God wants her to be as a Mom, she takes other moms along for the ride and spices things up for us a little. Thanks to Jen, we have 24:7 Moms, where we can get together for a little Mom time, go to the park, enjoy parties together with our kids, or share ideas we implement for raising Godly kids. Jen is not afraid to extend herself outside the walls of the church and invite unchurched moms to come and hang out with us, and she is always willing to make sure that when a mom in our church has a need, that the need is filled. When we have a new addition arrive within our church family, you can be sure that you will receive a call from Jen scheduling meals to be delivered to your home so you can enjoy time with your newborn. She heads up that ministry for us and does an exceptional job.
Jen has been a good friend to me. My favorite thing to talk about with Jen is COUPONS! She and I share a love for saving a penny. Right now, I have her beat because I saved so much one day at the grocery store that I crashed their system and Jen all but gave me a trophy! Her day is coming, though, when she'll probably pay $5 for a whole cart of groceries. Hey, it's like a sport to us! For me, it's nice to have another woman, mom, friend that takes pleasure in the simple things, like clipping a really great coupon.
I hope you take time to get to know Jen. She really does care about you and wants to see you Moms take a little time for YOU, so join her for the next 24:7 Moms event she plans. You are sure to walk away with a little more peace than you started the day with.
Jen is wife to Jeff, mom to Brady, and one of the best cupcake bakers ever. She desires to follow Jesus and without a doubt, she will beat herself up if she doesn't do her very best at anything she puts her hands to. Thanks, Jen, for giving everything your all!
It has been a journey we've taken with Jen, and one that has led her personally to see a calling God has put on her life to invest in the lives of other moms. In her own personal journey to discovering it is that God wants her to be as a Mom, she takes other moms along for the ride and spices things up for us a little. Thanks to Jen, we have 24:7 Moms, where we can get together for a little Mom time, go to the park, enjoy parties together with our kids, or share ideas we implement for raising Godly kids. Jen is not afraid to extend herself outside the walls of the church and invite unchurched moms to come and hang out with us, and she is always willing to make sure that when a mom in our church has a need, that the need is filled. When we have a new addition arrive within our church family, you can be sure that you will receive a call from Jen scheduling meals to be delivered to your home so you can enjoy time with your newborn. She heads up that ministry for us and does an exceptional job.
Jen has been a good friend to me. My favorite thing to talk about with Jen is COUPONS! She and I share a love for saving a penny. Right now, I have her beat because I saved so much one day at the grocery store that I crashed their system and Jen all but gave me a trophy! Her day is coming, though, when she'll probably pay $5 for a whole cart of groceries. Hey, it's like a sport to us! For me, it's nice to have another woman, mom, friend that takes pleasure in the simple things, like clipping a really great coupon.
I hope you take time to get to know Jen. She really does care about you and wants to see you Moms take a little time for YOU, so join her for the next 24:7 Moms event she plans. You are sure to walk away with a little more peace than you started the day with.
Jen is wife to Jeff, mom to Brady, and one of the best cupcake bakers ever. She desires to follow Jesus and without a doubt, she will beat herself up if she doesn't do her very best at anything she puts her hands to. Thanks, Jen, for giving everything your all!
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Barbie
I promised that over these next few days I would introduce you to the Aroma team members, so if you are reading this as your first post, scroll down a little and get caught up on our testimony of God putting together this team of five ladies.
Today is a very special day for me because I have the honor of writing about my best friend. God has afforded me the blessing of having best friends at every important juncture in my life, and knowing Barbie George is no exception. I always look at Barbie and think, "that is me back when my mom was talking for me and I didn't speak a word." Barbie need not say a word to be heard, because it is the heart she has as a listener that speaks the loudest. She lets me talk and talk without saying a word, lets me get done and then just encourages me. I think that God put Barbie in my life to remind me to slow down and let it all sink in. She is one of these friends to me that can read my mind. Seriously, we can be in the same room, look at each other and know what the other is thinking. I like that about a person.
Not only that, but she makes me laugh. There's just some people who's humor you get. That's Barbie. Sometimes we just get in a "you got to bend over and laugh" kind of laugh. We always have a good time, and I think anyone that is around her will agree with me.
These last few months have been awesome to watch God work in Barbie's life. We've had many a conversation where we talk about where it is God wants to use us. Back in the day that I wrote about a couple of days ago where God profoundly showed me what my role as pastor's wife was while in Dillon, God showed me some very specific things and since then, He's just grown those in my life. Watching Barbie these last few months I have been reminded of that time when God takes a heart that is willing and He gives them life-changing things to do. No longer does Barbie have to wonder "where do I fit in?" She isn't waiting around for some lightning bolt moment, but she is digging in and loving on people in a way only Barbie can. And you know what I love the most about her? Never will you hear, "look what I did for so and so" or "that's not my job description" or "I'm too scared to try". Nope, never. Barbie serves out of the overflow of her heart. Hey, I am one life that God sent her to restore. Barbie, you will never know what your friendship means to me - to have taken this heart of mine and just loved on me when I needed it the most - well, that takes us deep, girl. I love you like my sister.
Barbie has a heart for all people. I really think she would serve just about anywhere and do a job "well done." In Aroma, Barbie has a job that is pretty much behind the scenes because she does a lot of publicity related stuff for us, but Barbie also has a ministry in Ladies' Coffee Connection. After seeing that women just need to get together and talk sometimes and let the kids run around, Barbie has organized this time just for you! She wants you to come and feel like you can kick up your feet and talk about whatever. And you know what? After spending an hour or so with other ladies, you begin to see how to pray, who has a need, and who just might need a break. Barbie does an exceptional job and organizing this. I hope that next time she does one that you will come and be a part of that time You are bound to form a relationship that you might not have expected.
Yesterday, I asked Jeff if he'd been reading these blog entries and he said he had. When I asked him what he thought about how I was introducing my team, he answered, "well, you are writing about your relationship and experiences with them...from your perspective." Thinking he must have thought that was a bad thing, I got a little defensive. He said, "no you are writing like you know them." Well, I hope this is helping you ladies reading this know them, and that something you read may take you deeper in a relationship with them. Sometimes it's just hard to trust that someone wants to serve you until you know them firsthand. We desire for you to know the Father firsthand, and I assure you that knowing one of these ladies, you will also feel as though you know the Father, too. They model Him to me each and every day.
So, get to know Barbie George. Her birthday is March 14 - that's tomorrow for all you busy people that don't know what day it is. Wish her a big 'ole Happy Birthday and give her a hug!
Barbie is married to Brian, Pastor of Missons/Administration at LifeSong. She is the awesome mom to Addie, Aiden and Austin, with whom she loves on at home each at everyday. She is my dear, dear friend - a true kindred spirit!
Today is a very special day for me because I have the honor of writing about my best friend. God has afforded me the blessing of having best friends at every important juncture in my life, and knowing Barbie George is no exception. I always look at Barbie and think, "that is me back when my mom was talking for me and I didn't speak a word." Barbie need not say a word to be heard, because it is the heart she has as a listener that speaks the loudest. She lets me talk and talk without saying a word, lets me get done and then just encourages me. I think that God put Barbie in my life to remind me to slow down and let it all sink in. She is one of these friends to me that can read my mind. Seriously, we can be in the same room, look at each other and know what the other is thinking. I like that about a person.
Not only that, but she makes me laugh. There's just some people who's humor you get. That's Barbie. Sometimes we just get in a "you got to bend over and laugh" kind of laugh. We always have a good time, and I think anyone that is around her will agree with me.
These last few months have been awesome to watch God work in Barbie's life. We've had many a conversation where we talk about where it is God wants to use us. Back in the day that I wrote about a couple of days ago where God profoundly showed me what my role as pastor's wife was while in Dillon, God showed me some very specific things and since then, He's just grown those in my life. Watching Barbie these last few months I have been reminded of that time when God takes a heart that is willing and He gives them life-changing things to do. No longer does Barbie have to wonder "where do I fit in?" She isn't waiting around for some lightning bolt moment, but she is digging in and loving on people in a way only Barbie can. And you know what I love the most about her? Never will you hear, "look what I did for so and so" or "that's not my job description" or "I'm too scared to try". Nope, never. Barbie serves out of the overflow of her heart. Hey, I am one life that God sent her to restore. Barbie, you will never know what your friendship means to me - to have taken this heart of mine and just loved on me when I needed it the most - well, that takes us deep, girl. I love you like my sister.
Barbie has a heart for all people. I really think she would serve just about anywhere and do a job "well done." In Aroma, Barbie has a job that is pretty much behind the scenes because she does a lot of publicity related stuff for us, but Barbie also has a ministry in Ladies' Coffee Connection. After seeing that women just need to get together and talk sometimes and let the kids run around, Barbie has organized this time just for you! She wants you to come and feel like you can kick up your feet and talk about whatever. And you know what? After spending an hour or so with other ladies, you begin to see how to pray, who has a need, and who just might need a break. Barbie does an exceptional job and organizing this. I hope that next time she does one that you will come and be a part of that time You are bound to form a relationship that you might not have expected.
Yesterday, I asked Jeff if he'd been reading these blog entries and he said he had. When I asked him what he thought about how I was introducing my team, he answered, "well, you are writing about your relationship and experiences with them...from your perspective." Thinking he must have thought that was a bad thing, I got a little defensive. He said, "no you are writing like you know them." Well, I hope this is helping you ladies reading this know them, and that something you read may take you deeper in a relationship with them. Sometimes it's just hard to trust that someone wants to serve you until you know them firsthand. We desire for you to know the Father firsthand, and I assure you that knowing one of these ladies, you will also feel as though you know the Father, too. They model Him to me each and every day.
So, get to know Barbie George. Her birthday is March 14 - that's tomorrow for all you busy people that don't know what day it is. Wish her a big 'ole Happy Birthday and give her a hug!
Barbie is married to Brian, Pastor of Missons/Administration at LifeSong. She is the awesome mom to Addie, Aiden and Austin, with whom she loves on at home each at everyday. She is my dear, dear friend - a true kindred spirit!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Bonnie "Guesstures" Moody
(Read the post below before reading this)
There is a reason for calling Bonnie "Guesstures." Just recently, on retreat, Bonnie surprised us all for her keen "Guesstures" playing skills. Her skill at the game truly points to how I feel about Bonnie. She always keeps me guessing! She is full of surprises in the way that her talents are endless, and her giftedness always apt to grow stronger and be added to. She is a woman's woman. Women just want to be like her!
Bonnie holds a very dear place in my heart. I can almost remember the day that I met her. I actually met her at our former church, but I didn't really "know" her then. When God began to do a work in our hearts to begin LifeSong, we met in our home with about 26 other people, two of which were Bonnie and her husband, Eric. I always admired Bonnie, but first I have to admit it was all vanity. I just love the way that Bonnie dresses! She has got some style going on! I just couldn't wait to see what she came to Housechurch wearing next! My other impression of Bonnie is that she was a fellow coffee queen. I love me some people that appreciate a good cup of Joe. Bonnie shared with me several months ago that our coffee at Housechurch always kept her coming back. I shared my Venezuelan stash with everyone, and apparently that was God's will because it kept Bonnie coming back.
My heart has always been bent toward Bonnie. Immediately, when we wanted someone to lead ladies in a fellowship ministry, Bonnie popped in my mind. She loves to serve others, hang out with people, and has a tremendous gift for hospitality! Thus, we began our Sweet Monday ministry, which is now known as Monday Mingle. Every first Monday of the month, we meet at Bonnie's home for pure fellowship. No one has ever walked away unhappy. She always does a super job.
However much of a fan of Bonnie I am, no one recently has impacted my life as much as she! She is a pure example of how our God takes a person and puts them right where He wants them to be, right at the right time! God used Bonnie's heart for Sweet Monday to get her listening to His voice. When it came time to meet for a new Bible study about this time last year, Bonnie ended up in my small group discussion. No sooner had we sat down did she look at me and say, "I need to be led to the Lord!" What? I never imagined such a sweeter moment in all my life. God had brought Bonnie to LifeSong, put her in an actual place of service, only to lead her to her Maker.
Never in all my life have I been so blessed to pray someone to the feet of Jesus, that He would walk straight into her heart. As Sarah Davenport and I began to pray and talk with Bonnie, it was abundantly clear that she did not feel she had truly accepted Christ years and years ago, and that that very day we were in Bible study would be her day of salvation...the difference maker in her life! So, in that very moment, she bowed her head, and in her very own words begged for Jesus to come inhabit her heart. Since then, Bonnie has been even more "full steam ahead." She loves to do whatever it takes to see women, and all people, changed for His glory. She never whines, complains, wishes she were somewhere different. She always goes the extra mile, without ever being asked. Aside from leading Monday Mingle, she always has a hand in organizing any details to make things beautiful for our gatherings, she manages our money and whatever else is asked of her.
Bonnie is married to Eric. They live in Reidville and have two very spunky dogs. She crochets, gardens, quilts, shops like a superstar, and is a true friend. I am honored to have Bonnie on the Aroma Team, but especially my dear friend.
There is a reason for calling Bonnie "Guesstures." Just recently, on retreat, Bonnie surprised us all for her keen "Guesstures" playing skills. Her skill at the game truly points to how I feel about Bonnie. She always keeps me guessing! She is full of surprises in the way that her talents are endless, and her giftedness always apt to grow stronger and be added to. She is a woman's woman. Women just want to be like her!
Bonnie holds a very dear place in my heart. I can almost remember the day that I met her. I actually met her at our former church, but I didn't really "know" her then. When God began to do a work in our hearts to begin LifeSong, we met in our home with about 26 other people, two of which were Bonnie and her husband, Eric. I always admired Bonnie, but first I have to admit it was all vanity. I just love the way that Bonnie dresses! She has got some style going on! I just couldn't wait to see what she came to Housechurch wearing next! My other impression of Bonnie is that she was a fellow coffee queen. I love me some people that appreciate a good cup of Joe. Bonnie shared with me several months ago that our coffee at Housechurch always kept her coming back. I shared my Venezuelan stash with everyone, and apparently that was God's will because it kept Bonnie coming back.
My heart has always been bent toward Bonnie. Immediately, when we wanted someone to lead ladies in a fellowship ministry, Bonnie popped in my mind. She loves to serve others, hang out with people, and has a tremendous gift for hospitality! Thus, we began our Sweet Monday ministry, which is now known as Monday Mingle. Every first Monday of the month, we meet at Bonnie's home for pure fellowship. No one has ever walked away unhappy. She always does a super job.
However much of a fan of Bonnie I am, no one recently has impacted my life as much as she! She is a pure example of how our God takes a person and puts them right where He wants them to be, right at the right time! God used Bonnie's heart for Sweet Monday to get her listening to His voice. When it came time to meet for a new Bible study about this time last year, Bonnie ended up in my small group discussion. No sooner had we sat down did she look at me and say, "I need to be led to the Lord!" What? I never imagined such a sweeter moment in all my life. God had brought Bonnie to LifeSong, put her in an actual place of service, only to lead her to her Maker.
Never in all my life have I been so blessed to pray someone to the feet of Jesus, that He would walk straight into her heart. As Sarah Davenport and I began to pray and talk with Bonnie, it was abundantly clear that she did not feel she had truly accepted Christ years and years ago, and that that very day we were in Bible study would be her day of salvation...the difference maker in her life! So, in that very moment, she bowed her head, and in her very own words begged for Jesus to come inhabit her heart. Since then, Bonnie has been even more "full steam ahead." She loves to do whatever it takes to see women, and all people, changed for His glory. She never whines, complains, wishes she were somewhere different. She always goes the extra mile, without ever being asked. Aside from leading Monday Mingle, she always has a hand in organizing any details to make things beautiful for our gatherings, she manages our money and whatever else is asked of her.
Bonnie is married to Eric. They live in Reidville and have two very spunky dogs. She crochets, gardens, quilts, shops like a superstar, and is a true friend. I am honored to have Bonnie on the Aroma Team, but especially my dear friend.
Shout out!
I am a big believer in encouragement. I truly love to praise others and share that enthusiasm with everyone else. I am madly in love with the Aroma Team! They are like sisters to me. Over the next couple of days, I would like to introduce you to them and share with you just why they mean so much to me. Years ago (10 years, to be exact!), when Jeff became a Pastor, I didn't know quite where to put myself in the realm of his ministry, much less believing that I could have one of my own. God allowed me to fall flat on my face, so I would finally stop being stubborn and finally turn to Him for guidance. What He revealed to me was shocking and scared me out of my mind. He very clearly, in the living room of my home in Dillon, told me to begin teaching Bible studies! Ugh!! I must've been hearing things, because at the time, I never opened my mouth to speak to anyone because I was so scared. Ok, now... pick yourself up off the floor from shock. Yes, it's true. There actually used to be a time in my life that I did not talk. Up until I went away to college, my Mama pretty much spoke for me always. I was an extreme introvert! Ok, again! Pick yourselves up...that's just not nice...you are hurting my feelings! I know that I talk ALOT now, but look at it this way. God alone has done this in me. I just can't shut up when it comes to teaching women about Jesus and when it comes to building them up!
I take it so very seriously! Can't you tell? I don't like it one iota when I perceive someone doesn't want to be a part of allowing God to make them the woman He wants them to be, so they hide from any situations that might bring that about. I want women hanging out together, building one another up, and growing closer to Jesus together. God has shared so many female relationships in His word that show us our need for sisterhood. It makes us better women, wives, moms and friends. Women just identify with each other, don't they? So, you must understand my heart for seeing women grow in their walk with God and how long ago God gave me the honor and awesome responsibility to put my heart in seeing this come to be. Up until now, I have pretty much gone at it alone, all the while praying that God would bring other ladies to my attention that had a similar mindset as me. Well, folks, it's been a long road, but I believe with all my heart that He has answered the desires of my heart in forming this Aroma Team. Our team is not intended to be a clique, nor exclusive. It is to be a knitting together of many gifts and throwing them in the pot and getting the job done! Git 'er done, I said! Each lady carries a different heart for different ministries, and how I've loved watching them come into their own. I am so excited to have you know this team more. Some of you got to know them through the retreat and you saw firsthand the love they desire to pour into you. Allow me the honor of introducing to the rest of you...The AROMA TEAM!
I take it so very seriously! Can't you tell? I don't like it one iota when I perceive someone doesn't want to be a part of allowing God to make them the woman He wants them to be, so they hide from any situations that might bring that about. I want women hanging out together, building one another up, and growing closer to Jesus together. God has shared so many female relationships in His word that show us our need for sisterhood. It makes us better women, wives, moms and friends. Women just identify with each other, don't they? So, you must understand my heart for seeing women grow in their walk with God and how long ago God gave me the honor and awesome responsibility to put my heart in seeing this come to be. Up until now, I have pretty much gone at it alone, all the while praying that God would bring other ladies to my attention that had a similar mindset as me. Well, folks, it's been a long road, but I believe with all my heart that He has answered the desires of my heart in forming this Aroma Team. Our team is not intended to be a clique, nor exclusive. It is to be a knitting together of many gifts and throwing them in the pot and getting the job done! Git 'er done, I said! Each lady carries a different heart for different ministries, and how I've loved watching them come into their own. I am so excited to have you know this team more. Some of you got to know them through the retreat and you saw firsthand the love they desire to pour into you. Allow me the honor of introducing to the rest of you...The AROMA TEAM!
Monday, March 10, 2008
Lacking Sleep, Yet Full of Love
My heart is full to overflowing as I thank my God for what He did in the lives of the women that went on retreat this past weekend. One person said to me this weekend, "Planning retreat has to be like planning a wedding. You plan so long, only to have your wedding over in 30 minutes!" Those are my exact sentiments in regards to retreat. All the planning that went into it, and it was over in what seemed like no time! And, just like a wedding, there was such a joy and happiness in the end even though I was so sad to see the occasion over. I know that God dealt with my heart on some things, as I hope He did in your heart. As you well know by now, or at least you should know, we were challenged to focus on these four areas of loving others. We are to love those that are JOY, TESTY, FOE and FAR. After getting past the fact that I might be the TESTY one that others have to love, I was able to focus on who God is challenging me to love more. Most of you know that my family has experienced a lot of hurt at the hand of church people. There has been a lot of hurt incurred at the hand of those that proclaim to love the Lord. You would think that therein lie my challenge, but that was not the case. I am here to tell you that God is my Defender and the protector of my heart and He has delivered me from my ill feelings and hurt. That doesn't mean that I still don't hurt when I see those that hurt me, or that I don't still deal with wanting to dislike them, but God, in His great mercy, has taught me to love and pray for them, even in spite of not liking what they have done. God could only do that because if you know me well enough, I can hold a grudge all day. I usually won't be the first to break, but God has taken all that on Him for me. So, all of that to say, it was NOT the Foe that I felt as challenged to love this weekend, and I really thought that this would have been the case for me. Praise God for giving me this time to see just how far He - and only HE - has brought me.
The challenge for me this weekend is what it's always been from the moment I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. It is taking up His commandment to go and love the FAR. Remember? The one that we may just happen on while we are out shopping, at the park, across the country.
It's the stranger that God has commanded us to love. The heart of a missionary I have is truly born out of what has been ingrained in me all my life growing up as an MK. In some ways, that life makes all of this the esssence of who I am as a person. However, it is truly the essence of just being a Child of the King that will always be the prompt to GO and just BE love to those around me. I will never probably know the impact my life has had and will have on all, but that shouldn't keep me from taking every opportunity to go and love the FAR! I am so thankful that God gave me this weekend to love on you, who by the way are JOY if you didn't already know. Yeah, we may all borderline on TESTY...especially when you get 30 women together in one room, but know this! God has given me no greater honor than to love you ladies! I can truly say I have returned home and I didn't gain a FOE at all. Let's go, though and love those who are FARs, ok? We have a community all around us that needs us to show them love. Maybe it's opening the door for a stranger. You wouldn't believe how many will respond to even that. Just the other day I was in the grocery store and as I was leaving I saw a man in the entryway at
Bi-Lo trying to back up a motorized wheelchair and he couldn't do it because someone piled a bunch of buggies around him. I asked him if I could help him and he said he would be grateful, so I moved the buggies and allowed him to pass through. His words to me were, "Young lady, may the blessings of Jesus go with you. You have blessed me today. Today you have all my love. I love, love, love you!" Well, that was certainly more thanks than I expected or even desired, but God put a man in my path, much like Beth told us about this weekend in regards to the man's whose hair she brushed, and he just needed someone to love him. God is good like that. To this stay-at-home mom who often gets frustrated because she doesn't have a lot of "contacts" to reach out to, God ALWAYS provides a way for me to love on others.
My challenge to you today is obviously go and LOVE WELL. Remember to do as Beth said this weekend..."Continue to reach down into the LOVING WELL in order to love well always."
Thanks to all who helped this weekend. I love the Aroma team. God has knit us together and we do work well together. I want to thank Beva Bailey and Debbie Smith for offering to come and help us prepare food. They did a wonderful job. They give my favorite cooks, Rachael Ray and Paula Deen a run for their money. Yes, even you Debbie! One day you may be a great chef as a result of all of this! Thanks to all of you ladies for coming, being flexible, being fun, being friends and most of all...being teachable. May God use you greatly today!
The challenge for me this weekend is what it's always been from the moment I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. It is taking up His commandment to go and love the FAR. Remember? The one that we may just happen on while we are out shopping, at the park, across the country.
It's the stranger that God has commanded us to love. The heart of a missionary I have is truly born out of what has been ingrained in me all my life growing up as an MK. In some ways, that life makes all of this the esssence of who I am as a person. However, it is truly the essence of just being a Child of the King that will always be the prompt to GO and just BE love to those around me. I will never probably know the impact my life has had and will have on all, but that shouldn't keep me from taking every opportunity to go and love the FAR! I am so thankful that God gave me this weekend to love on you, who by the way are JOY if you didn't already know. Yeah, we may all borderline on TESTY...especially when you get 30 women together in one room, but know this! God has given me no greater honor than to love you ladies! I can truly say I have returned home and I didn't gain a FOE at all. Let's go, though and love those who are FARs, ok? We have a community all around us that needs us to show them love. Maybe it's opening the door for a stranger. You wouldn't believe how many will respond to even that. Just the other day I was in the grocery store and as I was leaving I saw a man in the entryway at
Bi-Lo trying to back up a motorized wheelchair and he couldn't do it because someone piled a bunch of buggies around him. I asked him if I could help him and he said he would be grateful, so I moved the buggies and allowed him to pass through. His words to me were, "Young lady, may the blessings of Jesus go with you. You have blessed me today. Today you have all my love. I love, love, love you!" Well, that was certainly more thanks than I expected or even desired, but God put a man in my path, much like Beth told us about this weekend in regards to the man's whose hair she brushed, and he just needed someone to love him. God is good like that. To this stay-at-home mom who often gets frustrated because she doesn't have a lot of "contacts" to reach out to, God ALWAYS provides a way for me to love on others.
My challenge to you today is obviously go and LOVE WELL. Remember to do as Beth said this weekend..."Continue to reach down into the LOVING WELL in order to love well always."
Thanks to all who helped this weekend. I love the Aroma team. God has knit us together and we do work well together. I want to thank Beva Bailey and Debbie Smith for offering to come and help us prepare food. They did a wonderful job. They give my favorite cooks, Rachael Ray and Paula Deen a run for their money. Yes, even you Debbie! One day you may be a great chef as a result of all of this! Thanks to all of you ladies for coming, being flexible, being fun, being friends and most of all...being teachable. May God use you greatly today!
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
A Time to Love Well
The time has finally come for 30 of us, and irregardless of whether you are one of the 30 or not, the time has come for you, too. This weekend 30 ladies from LifeSong and other areas are trekking up the mountain to Pigeon Forge for a weekend retreat entitled "Loving Well". Just reading the title challenges me. Who doesn't want to love well? I think most of us do, as do I believe most of us think it's simple to just say, "I love you" and that should mean we are loving well. Oh, how I wish it were that simple! Loving well is a complicated thing to do, and I think we oftentimes complicate it by simplifying it! Whew! That might have just confused me! In essence, what I am saying is that it's never just enough to say, "I love you". There are actions involved and choices to be made. There are some unlovely people out there and yet God has commanded us to love even them!
This weekend, we will be challenged. If you are going on this trip thinking it will be smooth sailing, then go back, do a re-check and make sure that you brought your thickest pair of shoes. Our toes are going to be stepped on. Just thinking about it makes my heart race. I feel as though, for me, I am personally in great need of a good toe stomping. I want to meet face to face with my Lord this weekend and have His Holy Spirit fill me up and challenge me. I encourage you to prepare your hearts. Satan wants to get all over us this weekend, but let's not give him the upperhand. Spend time now with Jesus, so that when we gather to worship Him this weekend, our worship will be an overflow of some time well spent with Him. It doesn't matter how much preparation has been done to choose the right location, the right topic, the right songs to sing, the right food to eat, or clothes to bring. None of that matters if we come loaded up with unconfessed sin. Clean up now, so that your worship this weekend will be like no other time in your life!
For those reading this not going with us, please pray for us. Pray for safety in traveling, for health of those attending, and for every aspect of the weekend to go smoothly. We need you interceding on our behalf. Most importantly, pray for those that going on this weekend could be the difference maker in their lives...whether it be the difference in spending eternity in heaven or hell, the difference in their marriages, their friendships or just even continuing on this journey for another day. Each person coming brings something different and needs the Lord to meet them there in a different way. We truly covet your prayers.
We desire to glorify our Lord Jesus this weekend. Father, may it be all about YOU and nothing to do with ME!
This weekend, we will be challenged. If you are going on this trip thinking it will be smooth sailing, then go back, do a re-check and make sure that you brought your thickest pair of shoes. Our toes are going to be stepped on. Just thinking about it makes my heart race. I feel as though, for me, I am personally in great need of a good toe stomping. I want to meet face to face with my Lord this weekend and have His Holy Spirit fill me up and challenge me. I encourage you to prepare your hearts. Satan wants to get all over us this weekend, but let's not give him the upperhand. Spend time now with Jesus, so that when we gather to worship Him this weekend, our worship will be an overflow of some time well spent with Him. It doesn't matter how much preparation has been done to choose the right location, the right topic, the right songs to sing, the right food to eat, or clothes to bring. None of that matters if we come loaded up with unconfessed sin. Clean up now, so that your worship this weekend will be like no other time in your life!
For those reading this not going with us, please pray for us. Pray for safety in traveling, for health of those attending, and for every aspect of the weekend to go smoothly. We need you interceding on our behalf. Most importantly, pray for those that going on this weekend could be the difference maker in their lives...whether it be the difference in spending eternity in heaven or hell, the difference in their marriages, their friendships or just even continuing on this journey for another day. Each person coming brings something different and needs the Lord to meet them there in a different way. We truly covet your prayers.
We desire to glorify our Lord Jesus this weekend. Father, may it be all about YOU and nothing to do with ME!
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