...til Pappy and Mimi are here!!!!!!
Matt's parents will be here in one week to visit with us. This will be their first time to visit us here in Guanacaste, but they both have been to Costa Rica before. THis time, we'll be taking our visa renewal trip to Nicaragua and they will be going with us! It shall be quite the adventure!
We are excited for them to meet our dogs, see our home and neighborhood, meet our neighbors and friends, and just experience our life here. It is so different from the city and we think they will really enjoy it.
We'll be heading to San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua which is just past the border and is a touristy little beach town. It will be fun to be tourists with them :)
We are looking forward to spending time with them while they are here.
And...Mimi- Izzy has a book waiting for you! :)
Just a glimpse into our lives following JESUS as He leads us to serve Him in the nations. Thanks for stopping by!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Please read the recent email update from our good friends, Tim and Sue Wolfe, about their granddaughter, Emma Wolfe.
Please continue to pray with us for baby Emma and, as Sue mentioned, our good friend Mike Druley who is battling cancer and is currently in the hospital.
Both Tim and Sue and Mike and his wife Sharon have been great sources of encouragement and support for us over many years, really since the beginning of our journey with the Lord. But our friendships have grown tremendously since Matt and I have come on the mission field.
Thank you for praying.
Please continue to pray with us for baby Emma and, as Sue mentioned, our good friend Mike Druley who is battling cancer and is currently in the hospital.
Both Tim and Sue and Mike and his wife Sharon have been great sources of encouragement and support for us over many years, really since the beginning of our journey with the Lord. But our friendships have grown tremendously since Matt and I have come on the mission field.
Thank you for praying.
Daisy
The kids have seveal CD's of KidSongs type songs on them. One of these CD's has a song called 'Give that dog a bone' (or something like that anyway). Yesterday, they were listening to that particular CD. I hadn't paid much attention to the song in the past, but my ears perked up yesterday as I listened to one particular part. It went like this:
"I have a dog
her name is Daisy
There's no one
who can call her lazy
'cause she jumps around
like she's crazy..."
Those lyrics perfectly describe this dog. She jumps more and higher than any dog I've ever seen. She dances around to do her business like a sacred ritual of some sort. She jumps high in the air trying to look over things and get up onto things. And when she is playing she will take leaps and bounds as she comes near to you or scampers away from you. I've never seen anything like it and it makes us all laugh and smile.
Here are a few recent pictures of her. She is growing quickly, doing pretty well with learning to use the potty pads and doing great with her crate at night and when we are gone.
She has developed an intense desire to make friends with the cat. The cat seems mildly interested in playing with Daisy and is doing quite well with the puppy following her around as well as chasing her, biting her tail and jumping on her head every now and then!
Daisy chasing Gatita off the bed. The cat had had enough!
Daisy getting brave; the cat tolerating her play.
Daisy and Gatita right before Daisy jumped on Gatita's head
Daisy biting the cat's tail
The face-off
Audrey gave Daisy this pink puppy to sleep with and play with and Daisy loves it, as you can see. She is sleeping in her crate in her little box. We haven't gotten her her own little bed yet because they are pretty pricey here, but we will eventually. She had an accident in her crate and now the little box is ruined, so she is sleeping on an old sheet. She seems to like it just fine for now. She loves to chew on part of the blanket and also snuggle down deep into the covers when she sleeps.
She reminds me of my mom's chihuahua, Princess, alot, sometimes.
"I have a dog
her name is Daisy
There's no one
who can call her lazy
'cause she jumps around
like she's crazy..."
Those lyrics perfectly describe this dog. She jumps more and higher than any dog I've ever seen. She dances around to do her business like a sacred ritual of some sort. She jumps high in the air trying to look over things and get up onto things. And when she is playing she will take leaps and bounds as she comes near to you or scampers away from you. I've never seen anything like it and it makes us all laugh and smile.
Here are a few recent pictures of her. She is growing quickly, doing pretty well with learning to use the potty pads and doing great with her crate at night and when we are gone.
She has developed an intense desire to make friends with the cat. The cat seems mildly interested in playing with Daisy and is doing quite well with the puppy following her around as well as chasing her, biting her tail and jumping on her head every now and then!
Daisy chasing Gatita off the bed. The cat had had enough!
Daisy getting brave; the cat tolerating her play.
Daisy and Gatita right before Daisy jumped on Gatita's head
Daisy biting the cat's tail
The face-off
Audrey gave Daisy this pink puppy to sleep with and play with and Daisy loves it, as you can see. She is sleeping in her crate in her little box. We haven't gotten her her own little bed yet because they are pretty pricey here, but we will eventually. She had an accident in her crate and now the little box is ruined, so she is sleeping on an old sheet. She seems to like it just fine for now. She loves to chew on part of the blanket and also snuggle down deep into the covers when she sleeps.
She reminds me of my mom's chihuahua, Princess, alot, sometimes.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
A little time away
As we've said many times, this life, as exciting and full of stories as it may seem, is still life as you know it. We go through each day, the same as you. We have a routine, as do you. It is true that our routine is 'ideal' and not guarenteed to happen as we have it planned out, but all the same we have an ideal of how our day should go. Serving in ministry, we have found that we go through periods where we try to walk on our own, go on in our own strength, instead of that of our Father.
Recently, we've been in a period of pretty high stress, not anything really serious, but more of a combination of things that when added up, and when tried to handle in our strength, started to compound and wear us out.
One of the best gifts God has given us is the blessing of living near the ocean. All five of us love the water, the sand, the beach and the way being there brings us back to our smallness and reminds of us how big our God is.
We hold Saturdays as our family day- which means no ministry, no friends, nothing but family activities. Many times, we head to the beach on Saturdays, even if just for an hour or so. For several weeks we have had other things going on and got away from this a little bit. When that happens, things always get a little off kilter.
This week, we were able to get away for several hours in the middle of the week and take the kids to the beach. Then, yesterday, we spontaneously decided to take the dogs to the beach for a little run and the chance to play in the water.
Both days were a great way to rejuvenate and recharge, which are especially important. And we are able to really just focus on our kids, which is the best rejuvenation of all. In my opinion, they are three of the best little gifts in the whole world! :)
We had a great time and it served to give us a few hours of much needed family time in the midst of a period of a little bit of stress that we'd been experiencing.
Here are a few pictures...
This day the tide was out so far we saw parts of the beach we hadn't seen before. Matt and the kdis were able to walk way out to a sandbar.
There was also a huge ledge of sand showing us exactly how far the tide had come in. It created a nice little mountain the kids enjoyed playing on. Ethan really enjoyed it.
The sandbar was beautiful and the waves cresting against it were beautiful.
Matt and the kids always have really great Daddy times when we are able to get to the beach.
You can see the difference in the beach from just a few days. This is the same stretch that was in some of the previous pictures, but much less beach and a much higher tide.
Reina and Lucy playing with each other.
Lucy loving the water and just being able to run...
I love this shot! Can't you just see how much fun they are having?
Izzy-bizzy :)
Playing in the sand mountain that is still there.
Daddy and Tito playing in the sand
Audgey-podgey
planning their next game
Reina
Recently, we've been in a period of pretty high stress, not anything really serious, but more of a combination of things that when added up, and when tried to handle in our strength, started to compound and wear us out.
One of the best gifts God has given us is the blessing of living near the ocean. All five of us love the water, the sand, the beach and the way being there brings us back to our smallness and reminds of us how big our God is.
We hold Saturdays as our family day- which means no ministry, no friends, nothing but family activities. Many times, we head to the beach on Saturdays, even if just for an hour or so. For several weeks we have had other things going on and got away from this a little bit. When that happens, things always get a little off kilter.
This week, we were able to get away for several hours in the middle of the week and take the kids to the beach. Then, yesterday, we spontaneously decided to take the dogs to the beach for a little run and the chance to play in the water.
Both days were a great way to rejuvenate and recharge, which are especially important. And we are able to really just focus on our kids, which is the best rejuvenation of all. In my opinion, they are three of the best little gifts in the whole world! :)
We had a great time and it served to give us a few hours of much needed family time in the midst of a period of a little bit of stress that we'd been experiencing.
Here are a few pictures...
This day the tide was out so far we saw parts of the beach we hadn't seen before. Matt and the kdis were able to walk way out to a sandbar.
There was also a huge ledge of sand showing us exactly how far the tide had come in. It created a nice little mountain the kids enjoyed playing on. Ethan really enjoyed it.
The sandbar was beautiful and the waves cresting against it were beautiful.
Matt and the kids always have really great Daddy times when we are able to get to the beach.
You can see the difference in the beach from just a few days. This is the same stretch that was in some of the previous pictures, but much less beach and a much higher tide.
Reina and Lucy playing with each other.
Lucy loving the water and just being able to run...
I love this shot! Can't you just see how much fun they are having?
Izzy-bizzy :)
Playing in the sand mountain that is still there.
Daddy and Tito playing in the sand
Audgey-podgey
planning their next game
Reina
Ghostbuster Fumigators
A few weeks ago, I posted about the city workers who came through our neighborhood spraying to rid the area of the Dengue-carrying mosquitoes that are highly prevalent this time of year. Matt was able to get a few pictures of the thick cloud that they left behind, but none of the guys doing the spraying.
They came through a few days ago again and he was able to get them to pose for a picture.
Here the man is walking along side our house towards Ronny and Dinora's house, spraying as he is walking. You can see how thick the cloud is.
Here you can see Ronny and Dinora scrambling to get out of their house. It is a very strong odor, as you can imagine.
Here the man is spraying around our neighbor, Judith's, house.
This is the fence on the side of our house and the man is in the middle of that cloud.
This was taken as they were spraying across the street from our house, down in a ravine where there are several houses.
Mr. Ghostbuster
The fumigators
They came through a few days ago again and he was able to get them to pose for a picture.
Here the man is walking along side our house towards Ronny and Dinora's house, spraying as he is walking. You can see how thick the cloud is.
Here you can see Ronny and Dinora scrambling to get out of their house. It is a very strong odor, as you can imagine.
Here the man is spraying around our neighbor, Judith's, house.
This is the fence on the side of our house and the man is in the middle of that cloud.
This was taken as they were spraying across the street from our house, down in a ravine where there are several houses.
Mr. Ghostbuster
The fumigators
Yiber's Qunicinera (15th birthday)
Last week, we were invited to be part of one of the most special events in a girl in Latin America's life. The 15th birthday of a young girl is the most celebrated event in her life, sometimes it is even a bigger celebration than her wedding day.
Eight months ago, Pastor Nelson invited Matt to go with him to begin a new ministry in a town called Filadelfia. The work there had begun years ago with previous pastors and members of the First Baptist church. Pastor Nelson has had a heart for this area since he moved to Villareal almost three years ago. Nelson asked Matt to go with him to share the gospel and begin discipleship there. The first afternoon they were there, several people surrendered their lives to Christ and many expressed interest in being part of discipleship. The following week, when Pastor Nelson and Matt returned there were over 15 people that started discipleship!
As happens most times, some eventually dropped off, but the majority have continued in discipleship and are still faithful, one of those being a 15 year old girl named, Yiber ('Jee-bir').
A few weeks ago, she celebrated her 15th birthday and the big party was last weekend. Her mother is Teresa, and for those of you who came from FEPC, you'll remember eating the piled high plates of yuca,salad and chicharon at her house.
When we left for furlough in the states, the discipleship groups were taken over by Pastor Nelosn and a local member of First Baptist Church. Since we've been back, they have continued to lead these groups. We are excited to see the Lord working and raising up members of the local churches becoming disciples and then going out to make disciples. that was the vision Matt first shared with Pastor Nelson when he first agreed to go to Filadelfia. We recently went to Filadelfia as a family to visit with some of Matt's former disciples. When we stopped to see Teresa and Yiber and their whole family, Yiber excitedly invited us to her party.
It was an added bonus to see many of Matt's former disciples together enjoying the day. When they first began discipleship, there was virtually no contact between the members of the different groups. Now, however, they have begun to develop real community now that Pastor Nelson is pastoring a new church plant there on Sunday afternoons. It is a wonderful blessing that they are able to worship corporately as well as study and grow as disciples.
Here are a few pictures of the afternoon. There was lots of good food, games, ice cream, cake, and even a lesson in singing the Happy Birthday song in English! :)
Pastor Nelson's wife, Guiselle, playing a unique game. The rules were to remove clothespins from a line using only one hand, storing them in the same hand. The winner was the person who was able to remove the most and keep them in their hand with out dropping any. Guiselle won!
Ethan and the kids playing musical chairs. Some party games have universal appeal :)
Matt and his special treat! This WHOLE chicken was brought out to him to eat with this huge plate of yuca and cabbage salad...AFTER the main dish of arroz con pollo was served! He did his best, but we brought home most of that chicken! Pastor Nelson was gifted with a whole chicken to take home, as well.
Pastor Nelson reading scripture and giving a devotional to commemorate the special day.
Yiber and her cake. Isn't it gorgeous? The flowers were real and they smelled wonderful!
Master Nelson, Guiselle and their youngest daughter, Amsy.
Yiber and most of our family :) Ethan was off playing with the boys.
Yummy helado!
Amsy refused to let Guiselle help her eat her ice cream. She looks like she's enjoying herself, huh?
ADORABLE!! :)
The birthday girl!
Guiselle and a few of the ladies from Matt's discipleship groups. FEPC- you may remember Dona Rita, the owner of Diego :)
Yiber and her parents, Teresa and Mario
It was an afternoon of good fellowship. Often, it is tempting in ministry to 'do much.' On this day, we were reminded that sometimes it is important to just 'be' with the people and share in their lives. Good fellowship with other believers is an important part of our journey as followers of Christ. It is especially important in this culture. We were blessed to be part of this day and thank God that He allowed us the opportunity to witness this day in the life of this young lady.
Eight months ago, Pastor Nelson invited Matt to go with him to begin a new ministry in a town called Filadelfia. The work there had begun years ago with previous pastors and members of the First Baptist church. Pastor Nelson has had a heart for this area since he moved to Villareal almost three years ago. Nelson asked Matt to go with him to share the gospel and begin discipleship there. The first afternoon they were there, several people surrendered their lives to Christ and many expressed interest in being part of discipleship. The following week, when Pastor Nelson and Matt returned there were over 15 people that started discipleship!
As happens most times, some eventually dropped off, but the majority have continued in discipleship and are still faithful, one of those being a 15 year old girl named, Yiber ('Jee-bir').
A few weeks ago, she celebrated her 15th birthday and the big party was last weekend. Her mother is Teresa, and for those of you who came from FEPC, you'll remember eating the piled high plates of yuca,salad and chicharon at her house.
When we left for furlough in the states, the discipleship groups were taken over by Pastor Nelosn and a local member of First Baptist Church. Since we've been back, they have continued to lead these groups. We are excited to see the Lord working and raising up members of the local churches becoming disciples and then going out to make disciples. that was the vision Matt first shared with Pastor Nelson when he first agreed to go to Filadelfia. We recently went to Filadelfia as a family to visit with some of Matt's former disciples. When we stopped to see Teresa and Yiber and their whole family, Yiber excitedly invited us to her party.
It was an added bonus to see many of Matt's former disciples together enjoying the day. When they first began discipleship, there was virtually no contact between the members of the different groups. Now, however, they have begun to develop real community now that Pastor Nelson is pastoring a new church plant there on Sunday afternoons. It is a wonderful blessing that they are able to worship corporately as well as study and grow as disciples.
Here are a few pictures of the afternoon. There was lots of good food, games, ice cream, cake, and even a lesson in singing the Happy Birthday song in English! :)
Pastor Nelson's wife, Guiselle, playing a unique game. The rules were to remove clothespins from a line using only one hand, storing them in the same hand. The winner was the person who was able to remove the most and keep them in their hand with out dropping any. Guiselle won!
Ethan and the kids playing musical chairs. Some party games have universal appeal :)
Matt and his special treat! This WHOLE chicken was brought out to him to eat with this huge plate of yuca and cabbage salad...AFTER the main dish of arroz con pollo was served! He did his best, but we brought home most of that chicken! Pastor Nelson was gifted with a whole chicken to take home, as well.
Pastor Nelson reading scripture and giving a devotional to commemorate the special day.
Yiber and her cake. Isn't it gorgeous? The flowers were real and they smelled wonderful!
Master Nelson, Guiselle and their youngest daughter, Amsy.
Yiber and most of our family :) Ethan was off playing with the boys.
Yummy helado!
Amsy refused to let Guiselle help her eat her ice cream. She looks like she's enjoying herself, huh?
ADORABLE!! :)
The birthday girl!
Guiselle and a few of the ladies from Matt's discipleship groups. FEPC- you may remember Dona Rita, the owner of Diego :)
Yiber and her parents, Teresa and Mario
It was an afternoon of good fellowship. Often, it is tempting in ministry to 'do much.' On this day, we were reminded that sometimes it is important to just 'be' with the people and share in their lives. Good fellowship with other believers is an important part of our journey as followers of Christ. It is especially important in this culture. We were blessed to be part of this day and thank God that He allowed us the opportunity to witness this day in the life of this young lady.
Hasta Luego!
In this life, we meet many people. Some we know only for a short time, some we stay connected with for many years.
Shortly after we moved to Villareal, I met a girl named Lindsay, who is originally from the Atlanta area, but had been living in Costa Rica for several years now.
She was living just two doors down from us and we quickly became friends. She has a little boy named Oliver who is one of the cutest little boys you'll ever meet.
Lindsay and I spent many Friday nights together when Matt was going to Filadelfia and Lindsay and Oliver also started coming to Calvary Chapel with us. We were able to get away to the beach with them a few times, as well, and we were even able to take care of Oliver some, which was really fun!
We shared some special times and made good memories together.
About three months ago, Lindsay had decided it was time to move back to the states for many reasons. She had her tickets purchased and was selling her things here when tragedy struck. Oliver's dad was in a terrible motorcycle accident and was not doing well. He had traumatic head injuries and was in a coma in the hospital. Lindsay made the decision to change her plane ticket and stay here another month until she knew more about his situation and also decided to move closer to the hospital, which is an hour away.
We stayed in touch as best as we could by phone during the month and shortly before she was to leave for the states, we made plans to get together. Matt and I and the kids drove up to where she was staying. It was fun to get out and see a new area and just get out for the day, something we are never able to do in the day-to-day of our life. We had made plans to head to the beach near her apratment. We arrived shortly after lunch and packed up and headed out. We decided to drive to a beach a little farther down the stretch and on our way, we saw that a nearby hotel was having one of those days where they invite the public in and allow them to enjoy all the hotel has to offer for listening to their spiel about their hotel...We decided to try it because they had two pools and were offering a free supper as well as other things.
We spent a great few hours in the pool and the kids loved it. When it came time for the hotel's presentation to us, "no one was available' to show us around. We were thrilled because we were able to hang out at this great hotel and swim in the pool and relax. It was a great way to spend the afternoon.
We took advantage of the great view the hotel offered to snap some pictures.
God has done a mighty work in Lindsay's life as well as in Yader's ("Ja-dare"), Oliver's dad's life. Would you pray with us for these two young people and for little Oliver and for God's continued presence in their lives?
I look forward to continuing our friendship through the internet and occasional phone calls.
We miss you, Lindsay and Oliver!!!
Shortly after we moved to Villareal, I met a girl named Lindsay, who is originally from the Atlanta area, but had been living in Costa Rica for several years now.
She was living just two doors down from us and we quickly became friends. She has a little boy named Oliver who is one of the cutest little boys you'll ever meet.
Lindsay and I spent many Friday nights together when Matt was going to Filadelfia and Lindsay and Oliver also started coming to Calvary Chapel with us. We were able to get away to the beach with them a few times, as well, and we were even able to take care of Oliver some, which was really fun!
We shared some special times and made good memories together.
About three months ago, Lindsay had decided it was time to move back to the states for many reasons. She had her tickets purchased and was selling her things here when tragedy struck. Oliver's dad was in a terrible motorcycle accident and was not doing well. He had traumatic head injuries and was in a coma in the hospital. Lindsay made the decision to change her plane ticket and stay here another month until she knew more about his situation and also decided to move closer to the hospital, which is an hour away.
We stayed in touch as best as we could by phone during the month and shortly before she was to leave for the states, we made plans to get together. Matt and I and the kids drove up to where she was staying. It was fun to get out and see a new area and just get out for the day, something we are never able to do in the day-to-day of our life. We had made plans to head to the beach near her apratment. We arrived shortly after lunch and packed up and headed out. We decided to drive to a beach a little farther down the stretch and on our way, we saw that a nearby hotel was having one of those days where they invite the public in and allow them to enjoy all the hotel has to offer for listening to their spiel about their hotel...We decided to try it because they had two pools and were offering a free supper as well as other things.
We spent a great few hours in the pool and the kids loved it. When it came time for the hotel's presentation to us, "no one was available' to show us around. We were thrilled because we were able to hang out at this great hotel and swim in the pool and relax. It was a great way to spend the afternoon.
We took advantage of the great view the hotel offered to snap some pictures.
God has done a mighty work in Lindsay's life as well as in Yader's ("Ja-dare"), Oliver's dad's life. Would you pray with us for these two young people and for little Oliver and for God's continued presence in their lives?
I look forward to continuing our friendship through the internet and occasional phone calls.
We miss you, Lindsay and Oliver!!!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Emma Update
Emma made it through surgery great and everything looks good. Praise God for His hand being upon the surgery. Please continue to pray for her recovery and as she grows and develops. Pray for her parents as well and all that they deal with on a daily basis.
Thank you for praying!
Thank you for praying!
Emma Wolfe
Please pray for baby Emma Wolfe. I have asked for prayer for her and her family many times before. Her life is in danger as she has moved into heart failure. She is having syrgery this morning, which was unplanned, but needed to save her little life. Please pray for this little girl, the surgeons, nurses and doctors caring for her as well as her family.
You can read about her story at CaringBridge under 'wolfekids'
Thank you for praying.
You can read about her story at CaringBridge under 'wolfekids'
Thank you for praying.
Friday, August 27, 2010
More on Timothy...
I was retelling a story about Ethan to a friend via email about some things we have been working through with him and some of his relationships. We knew when we moved here that we would encounter new aspects to life as we live where we serve. We had several conversations with close friends about this and how it would change our lives. We have to purposefully determine to daily die to our self in order to live next to our disciples and the community in which we serve. It is so easy to judge and point a finger, but then the realization comes that their are four other fingers pointing right back at me as well as that big, cumbersome plank in my own eye (sound familiar?).
We have a specific call to live here and it is in that we encounter things we may not have encountered before in our time on the field. It makes our life a little different. We've really been struck by Paul and Timothy and their relationship, their specific call, and their specific sacrifice and hardship. It is painstaking the suffering, sacrifice and persecution Paul endured and considered a blessing.
UGH! That really hits me square in the face. That he considered his suffering a blessing while I complain over little things.
While our life and call may be different than others, it doesn't mean that it is better than anything or anyone's else's. We are blessed to have missionary friends all over Costa Rica as well as throughout different parts of the world. They all live different lifestyle's. We have many friends here who have or have had different style houses than ours. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that lifestyle, and we are thankful for the blessing God has given them. We are thankful, too, that they blessed us in different ways through sharing their blessings (like the pool one set of friends had in their house just down from us). There are some beautiful homes here and awesome surroundings where you can find peace amidst the daily happenings of life. When we first moved here, I was invited to be a part of an English speaking Bible study in the home of the woman leading it. She had lived her for many many years and has built her life here. She has an amazing condo that she built and designed. It is beautiful. It was wonderful to spend time in her home and I cherish how God changed me through the study we went through those first few months of life here. I remember the mornings spent at one friend's home in a more secluded spot in our neighborhood. We met by the pool each week and it was an absolute blessing to be amidst nature and the quiet and calm of that area studying God's Word and in prayer. And then, the mornings spent with another friend in her condo with the amazing view of Villareal. We would sit and pray for the city and ministry needs and for each other as we studied the Word.
I thank God for those moments and blessings and quiet times of respite. I thank God for others who offer to share in their blessings as well. God is good all the time. He places different calls on our lives, we just need to be obedient to the call He has placed on our own life.
God's call on our life is rich with blessings, just in a different form than that.
When I read Paul's words to Timothy to 'live differently,' it resonates in me down to the bone. A great friend who serves in another part of Latin America recently shared with me that God was working in her family in the same way.
I pray that when I share parts of my heart, you, too will be blessed. I love to write and share our lives, my thoughts, and my struggles, and my sin here as a way of demonstrating God's great love, mercy and ultimately His GRACE in my life. He takes my sin, breaks me, and then builds me back up. Many times, He carries me through because my heart condition has made me so weak I can't walk on my own. I pray, as always that everything I write here will be a reflection of His grace and that when you read what I write you would pray for me in that way. I pray that if you read something here that doesn't jive with the life of Christ or God's Word- you'd take the time to be 'iron sharpening iron' and write me, share with me, teach me what God has taught you.
I am a sinner saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Not perfect, but being perfected by the Master Potter. I am forgiven by Christ's death on the cross. I have surrendered to Him. I am clay in His hands. He shapes me and molds me, and sometimes, as when clay is on the potter's wheel, I fall and lose the beautiful shape He has started. And then, He begins to form and mold and shape me again. It is a continual process and He will never be complete with me until we see each other face to face. I long for that day.
Will you pray for me to remain on His wheel, obedient to His call to 'be different?'
We have a specific call to live here and it is in that we encounter things we may not have encountered before in our time on the field. It makes our life a little different. We've really been struck by Paul and Timothy and their relationship, their specific call, and their specific sacrifice and hardship. It is painstaking the suffering, sacrifice and persecution Paul endured and considered a blessing.
UGH! That really hits me square in the face. That he considered his suffering a blessing while I complain over little things.
While our life and call may be different than others, it doesn't mean that it is better than anything or anyone's else's. We are blessed to have missionary friends all over Costa Rica as well as throughout different parts of the world. They all live different lifestyle's. We have many friends here who have or have had different style houses than ours. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that lifestyle, and we are thankful for the blessing God has given them. We are thankful, too, that they blessed us in different ways through sharing their blessings (like the pool one set of friends had in their house just down from us). There are some beautiful homes here and awesome surroundings where you can find peace amidst the daily happenings of life. When we first moved here, I was invited to be a part of an English speaking Bible study in the home of the woman leading it. She had lived her for many many years and has built her life here. She has an amazing condo that she built and designed. It is beautiful. It was wonderful to spend time in her home and I cherish how God changed me through the study we went through those first few months of life here. I remember the mornings spent at one friend's home in a more secluded spot in our neighborhood. We met by the pool each week and it was an absolute blessing to be amidst nature and the quiet and calm of that area studying God's Word and in prayer. And then, the mornings spent with another friend in her condo with the amazing view of Villareal. We would sit and pray for the city and ministry needs and for each other as we studied the Word.
I thank God for those moments and blessings and quiet times of respite. I thank God for others who offer to share in their blessings as well. God is good all the time. He places different calls on our lives, we just need to be obedient to the call He has placed on our own life.
God's call on our life is rich with blessings, just in a different form than that.
When I read Paul's words to Timothy to 'live differently,' it resonates in me down to the bone. A great friend who serves in another part of Latin America recently shared with me that God was working in her family in the same way.
I pray that when I share parts of my heart, you, too will be blessed. I love to write and share our lives, my thoughts, and my struggles, and my sin here as a way of demonstrating God's great love, mercy and ultimately His GRACE in my life. He takes my sin, breaks me, and then builds me back up. Many times, He carries me through because my heart condition has made me so weak I can't walk on my own. I pray, as always that everything I write here will be a reflection of His grace and that when you read what I write you would pray for me in that way. I pray that if you read something here that doesn't jive with the life of Christ or God's Word- you'd take the time to be 'iron sharpening iron' and write me, share with me, teach me what God has taught you.
I am a sinner saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Not perfect, but being perfected by the Master Potter. I am forgiven by Christ's death on the cross. I have surrendered to Him. I am clay in His hands. He shapes me and molds me, and sometimes, as when clay is on the potter's wheel, I fall and lose the beautiful shape He has started. And then, He begins to form and mold and shape me again. It is a continual process and He will never be complete with me until we see each other face to face. I long for that day.
Will you pray for me to remain on His wheel, obedient to His call to 'be different?'
Thursday, August 26, 2010
update
Things are much better now after a full day of work inside and outside of the house. We were able to save all but a few minor things mostly school supplies and a few books. We were able to get all the remaining water out, all of the floors cleaned as well as the furniture (that was one of the most disgusting things I've done- the smell was horrible!) and our neighbors got a retaining wall up (to stop the water from the back field from entering our yard) in record time. We are praising God for good neighbors as landlords, who truly have become our friends. I am thankful for a family who knows not only how to play together but knows how to work hard together as well.
Thank you for praying today!
We haven't been out in the neighborhood yet, but heard there was some major flooding in other areas near us. We are praying for the families that we know who continually struggle with flooding. Last nights rains were worse than they've had in years our neighbors were telling us. They've never known our house to flood like it did. We told them we hope to never see it happen again! And now hopefully with this wall it will redirect the water so that it will not happen again. We have three months of rainy season left- the months with the strongest, most damaging rains. We are thankful Alvaro (our landlord) understood our concern and went ahead and took action to prevent this from happening again.
In other less pertinent news- I am fully aware of how old my body is after working through the night and into the early morning, pushing water out of the house with a broom (about 2 hours) anad then on my hands and knees sopping up the remaining water and applying disenfectant as I went (about an hour and a half).
Today we moved everything around in each room, soaked up all the water hiding in the corners and under things, mopped and disinfected, washed soaked stuffed animals, curtains, rugs and all the towels we own. then I spent a good two hours cleaning the furniture - the smell was horrible from the dirty water that had soaked them. It was back breaking work and I am sure I'll sleep good tonight. Matt ha to re-dig a drainage trench (for the second time) and he cleaned and mopped and swept and washed out whatever needed done. The girls took care of Daisy and took turns helping. Ethan jumped in and helped cut down the weeds and grass from the fence to prepare the fence for the concrete and boards to be made into the retaining wall. He is walking around holding his back- I am sure he is sore. He used his machete to cut things down- he was a big help and I am proud of him for helping.
I admit my fear and doubt last night in the wee hours of the morning as I looked around wondering how we were ever going to get all that water out. I'd be lying if I said I didn't think (more than once) about how much easier it be if we lived the typical gringo life of condo living. I thought of the possibility of packing it all up and moving into our friends old place high up on the hill. It would be great- it was great for them and great to visit with them :)
"But, for you, Timothy (Brooke), be different." Paul says this to timothy numerous times in his letter to his young disciple. And it ultimately is what God has said to Matt and I.
"But, for you, I have called you to something different. What may be right for them or them or them, is not what is right for you..."
Me: "Are you sure, Lord, because I'm really feeling that posh set-up, that nice cozy place just around the bend that just opened up...Are you sure, Lord?"
Those were my thoughts last night. But this morning after the light of a few hours sleep (and I mean a few), God reminded me of his Great Love for me. And in that, He know s what is best. He knows the purpose and reason for calling us to this little house in this little barrio next to this neighbors we've grown to love. Some reasons we may never know. today, I am reminded that I really don't need to know. My obedience is not on a need-to-know basis. He asks and I obey and that is enough.
Our problems were minor and miniscule in spite of the major floodings and natural disasters around the world. I am thankful for the minor affliction today that brings me back to the Cross, back to the One who created the world, who died for me, who has conquered death and who will one day return again.
Thank you for praying today!
We haven't been out in the neighborhood yet, but heard there was some major flooding in other areas near us. We are praying for the families that we know who continually struggle with flooding. Last nights rains were worse than they've had in years our neighbors were telling us. They've never known our house to flood like it did. We told them we hope to never see it happen again! And now hopefully with this wall it will redirect the water so that it will not happen again. We have three months of rainy season left- the months with the strongest, most damaging rains. We are thankful Alvaro (our landlord) understood our concern and went ahead and took action to prevent this from happening again.
In other less pertinent news- I am fully aware of how old my body is after working through the night and into the early morning, pushing water out of the house with a broom (about 2 hours) anad then on my hands and knees sopping up the remaining water and applying disenfectant as I went (about an hour and a half).
Today we moved everything around in each room, soaked up all the water hiding in the corners and under things, mopped and disinfected, washed soaked stuffed animals, curtains, rugs and all the towels we own. then I spent a good two hours cleaning the furniture - the smell was horrible from the dirty water that had soaked them. It was back breaking work and I am sure I'll sleep good tonight. Matt ha to re-dig a drainage trench (for the second time) and he cleaned and mopped and swept and washed out whatever needed done. The girls took care of Daisy and took turns helping. Ethan jumped in and helped cut down the weeds and grass from the fence to prepare the fence for the concrete and boards to be made into the retaining wall. He is walking around holding his back- I am sure he is sore. He used his machete to cut things down- he was a big help and I am proud of him for helping.
I admit my fear and doubt last night in the wee hours of the morning as I looked around wondering how we were ever going to get all that water out. I'd be lying if I said I didn't think (more than once) about how much easier it be if we lived the typical gringo life of condo living. I thought of the possibility of packing it all up and moving into our friends old place high up on the hill. It would be great- it was great for them and great to visit with them :)
"But, for you, Timothy (Brooke), be different." Paul says this to timothy numerous times in his letter to his young disciple. And it ultimately is what God has said to Matt and I.
"But, for you, I have called you to something different. What may be right for them or them or them, is not what is right for you..."
Me: "Are you sure, Lord, because I'm really feeling that posh set-up, that nice cozy place just around the bend that just opened up...Are you sure, Lord?"
Those were my thoughts last night. But this morning after the light of a few hours sleep (and I mean a few), God reminded me of his Great Love for me. And in that, He know s what is best. He knows the purpose and reason for calling us to this little house in this little barrio next to this neighbors we've grown to love. Some reasons we may never know. today, I am reminded that I really don't need to know. My obedience is not on a need-to-know basis. He asks and I obey and that is enough.
Our problems were minor and miniscule in spite of the major floodings and natural disasters around the world. I am thankful for the minor affliction today that brings me back to the Cross, back to the One who created the world, who died for me, who has conquered death and who will one day return again.
Please pray
Please pray today: Last night our home completely flooded with water. We spent the good part of the night trying to get the water out and dry what we could and get the major dirt out - it was one of the most disgusting things I have ever seen...
Now begins the cleaning, assessing, sorting and throwing out. Please pray today as we are running on little sleep, stress, and facing an entire day of work.
Please pray that we can come to an agreement with our landlords and a solution formed today. This cannot happen again and they know the problem exists. Pray we will love our neighbor today and speak truthfully as well. We must find a solution or we face having to move.
Pray as we work today that God's Spirit would fill us and we would not be short tempered despite the lack of sleep.
Also, please pray for the many others whose homes surely flooded last night with the amount of rain we received. We know that our burdens are minor compared to what some might have to deal with.
Now begins the cleaning, assessing, sorting and throwing out. Please pray today as we are running on little sleep, stress, and facing an entire day of work.
Please pray that we can come to an agreement with our landlords and a solution formed today. This cannot happen again and they know the problem exists. Pray we will love our neighbor today and speak truthfully as well. We must find a solution or we face having to move.
Pray as we work today that God's Spirit would fill us and we would not be short tempered despite the lack of sleep.
Also, please pray for the many others whose homes surely flooded last night with the amount of rain we received. We know that our burdens are minor compared to what some might have to deal with.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
BOYS...
Ethan currently has a race going with himself...to see how fast of a shower he can take. Each day he tries for a quicker time.
Tonight, he came out with a All-Time record: 31 seconds!!!
Can anyone REALLY clean their body in thirty seconds?
Is this NORMAL for boys?
Tonight, he came out with a All-Time record: 31 seconds!!!
Can anyone REALLY clean their body in thirty seconds?
Is this NORMAL for boys?
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Diary of Daisy
I can fall asleep in almost any position, anywhere, anytime. The other day I was so tired from playing I curled up with my best friend and fell asleep. I was so comfortable!
She makes a wonderful pillow!
At night, I do not like to be alone. I still miss being with my brothers. So, I've been sleeping with Tito. He takes care of me at night and is good company for me when I get scared at night.
This girl is so sweet to me. She has had her own dog for about a year, so she kinda knows already what I like. She is a sweet human.
So, yeah...this could be really embarrassing for me...getting put in a doll stroller...but I look at it as a cool ride. I know you're jealous!
Hey- at least I made the humans happy for a few minutes! :)
I love it when my owner, Audrey, reads to me :)
Look how big I am! This is the one called "Mommy"'s flip flop.
This is me sleeping by my blue bone. I really like to cuddle up next to feet. And sometimes even on the feet of the humans in this house. It is so comfy. Plus if I wake up, I've got a nice toy right there to bite on :) {I'm talking about the feet, ya know)
This was one of the first few days in my new house. I was so tired I just fell asleep right next to my Audrey. She even let her put my head on her lap.
I had to stretch a little to get my head on her lap...but it was worth it because it was such nice nap!
I hope you enjoy a little glimpse into my daily life. I'm loving life in my new house. the humans are pretty cool. They clap and cheer every time I go to the bathroom on the paper, so I just keep doing it. The food is AWESOME! They've made me a nice space all to my own to stay in when they leave and have given me some fun toys. I can't wait until I get to go outside and explore. I have to stay inside for now, until i get bigger and get my shots, at least that is what I heard the big ones talking about. They have these trick doors here that make you think there is nothing there and when you get up to them there is this stuff keeping you from getting out. (screen doors). I love standing there and looking out. I've 'met' these two other dogs through these doors and they see nice enough. I hope to get to meet them and play with them soon. They don't come in the house though.
Well, I've gotta go play now...Bye!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)