“Contemplative practices are basic grammar to our discipleship to Jesus”. As in, you have to have them in order to develop a beautifully written story of faith with your life. Our good friend, Dave Nixon has some amazing thoughts about the contemplative life. (Just play around over on the sustainable faith site. Read away, it will do you good.)

Over the past 9 years, Mike and I have been becoming fluent in contemplative traditions and how they relate to our discipleship to Jesus. It is still stunning to me how few people really want to dig into this. We don’t understand how such a deceivingly simple practice can bring a deeper level of healing within. Few people want to sit still and be quiet. I was sitting quietly before the Lord the other night with a friend and she asked me, “Do you do this a lot?”. I thought, well yes, I do, and you know what, I could stand to do it a bit more for longer periods, like days to be precise but I digress.

Being rooted in the Vineyard tradition, gave us great experience in kingdom theology, power ministry, flowing in the Holy Spirit, worship and ministry to the poor in spirit. Upon being sent from our dear sweet church in Gainesville, we began to realize that we only had half of what would be important in helping people recover their whole life in discipleship to Jesus. We needed to understand about contemplative exercises and how they help the inward journey, not just for those who God would call to travel with us, but for our own life in Him. I guess you can think of the last 7 years as gathering tools to put in our bag. Valuable tools, that will keep us moving forward in ministry for a lifetime. There is no duality in our lives. We are who we are everywhere, ministering as Jesus leads, hopefully stewarding well everything He has given us from the environment to our monetary resources. Our whole life is ministry, is holy, redeemed and valuable.

So now, 7 years out, I have a dream of taking all the amazing and wonderful practical knowledge we have from the Vineyard, season it with a good does of Celtic contemplative practices, set in a deep narrative of social justice all wrapped up in a bow of people who are hungry to worship the true and living God. I don’t think that is too much to ask…do you? As a matter of fact, that is my prayer for the next 7 years.

Let it be so Lord.

1. What one thing could you do this year to increase your enjoyment of God?

Worship. For me this is where the rubber meets the road. In years past, I have led all types of worship all over the world, but since having little guys, I haven’t worshiped as much until recently. Up until now, I would worship by taking a “holy nap”. You think I am joking, but I am not. How can you praise the living God, when you are barely living yourself. Now, I feel God gently calling me back to the heart of worship. A way of being in the presence of the Lord that is like no other. Worship is singing to God and not about him - so that kind of guides what I do sing. Read the words of some of your church songs, and see if you pick up on a difference.

2. What is the single most important thing to increase your family time this year?

As we all grow together, I find we need to be more places more frequently and I can’t remember it all. So a family calender will help us all stay together. This last year I double booked myself, and stood people up more times than I care to remember. Say no to more, and organize what I do have better. Mike keeps recommending an online calender, so I will nag ask him to do it again.

3. What one thing could you do to increase your prayer life this year?

Schedule 2 silent retreats within the next 12 months, where I do nothing but sit, and be still before the Lord. No body else, no agenda, just letting go of all my little plans, and letting God do some rearranging as needed. This is a must in the basic essentials of being a disciple of Jesus. Hate to be so blunt, but if you aren’t getting this in, you are missing something huge.

4. What one biblical doctrine do you want to understand better this year, and what are you going to do about it?

I think the historical narrative is what is calling me right now in understanding the deeper hermeneutical circle. I know that is a big term, but it is the only one I know to describe what I mean. Just click the link and it will give you the diggs. As in, when was each book written in relationship to the history of the world. I am going back to my history major roots and putting some ducks in order in my mind so to speak. I am using Winn Griffins, God’s Epic Adventure as I study and it is mind blowing. I encourage you to get it and read it!

5. What does your devotion time look like?

It is fluid and dynamic. Changing as needed. I think the biggest mistake Christians fall into, is doing the same thing the same way all the time. Think about it, if you were training for a marathon, you would definitely do your running, but stretching, strength training, rest, diet and nutrition are all important components of running a healthy race. It is the same with our time with the Lord. I practice silence, solitude, worship, Lectio Divina, read many of the late mystics, read the Psalms over and over and right now I am on a Paul kick. That Dude - Rocked IT! I read Practicing the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence in my college years and it radically transformed my idea of quiet time. I do have a time first thing in the am, where I dial down and ask for grace to be obedient in my work for the day, and that Jesus would reveal more of himself to me each day, and then my day starts, and I just keep talking and the Lord keeps responding, and we roll like that all day, until I lay down at night and I lay it all down again. Sorry it isn’t very black and white.

So whether you blog or not, I encourage you to play along. This was very helpful for me.

So if you are reading this~ officially, Tag - You are it! Leave me a comment so I can stop on by and learn from you, and give One Thoughtful Momma some love while you are at it:-)

Peace to all!

If you don’t know yet from reading this blog, I am fairly passionate and honest about what I think and believe. The last year has been a huge learning process for me. I started this blog, all by myself, in order to force myself to do a few things. One was to become a bit more technologically proficient without needing my husbands help every time I turn on the computer. Well, I am not where I want to be but I am light years form where I was. Another was for me to think through and articulate my thoughts about life, love, homeschooling, parenting, our family, our faith community, and following Jesus in my own words, without letting my brilliant husband do all the deep thinking and talking for me. Not that he tries to, but I tend to let him. I think it is natural for most women to hide behind their husband, so this blog has been my attempt to grow and learn and be stimulated by him and not intimidated by how well he thinks and writes etc.

Well, not to toot his horn for him, but he has some brilliant posts here, here and here. Read them for yourself. I was honored a few weeks back when he asked me to consider moving my blog over with him on our what is church site. I was shocked really. When we first moved to South Florida, the what is church site was our little flag in the vast, barren land down here. It was a small, feeble, unseen, seemingly unsuccessful attempt to see if anyone out there was thinking about some of the same things. Well, that little website found a few dear souls(both locally and globally) , who were and are thinking the exact same things that we now journey with today. They are our faith community, our allies, our friends. In the beginning the what is church website was designed to tell our story and along the way a church was born. It is an amazing thing to see 7 years later, a sustainable faith community has developed, that is not dependent on any one set of peoples effort to make it work. It just works. I can’t explain it. God did it and is doing it, not any one of us who call it home. It doesn’t need us our our story to float it along. It has its own story, its own life. We are as much a part of it as any other person who calls our little church home. We are all learning, loving, growing together and passionately putting discipleship to Jesus above anything else. Mike is still reworking and writing some pieces for the what is church site, and tweaking some technical things as well as finishing the book he is writing. It is a huge work in progress. We are raising a family with three small children, working bivocationaly and sharing our life with our church family, so there are not many hours left in the day to do essentially a full times job worth of work. So be patient it will come. (I am really speaking to myself here) So,I say all of this to say, I will be renaming and moving this blog in the next few weeks. Mike and I feel like it is now time to dig into more deeply all it is that God called us here to be and do. Not that we havn’t been doing it up until now, but that there is a special season opening up that we are willing to step into. So that is what is kicking around here. I will keep you all posted on the upcoming change. Thanks for letting me share my heart.

Peace to all~

I have been thinking about this a bit as I roll into my 34th birthday and reminisce about all the people over the years who have made me who I am today. As you see on my tag line, building relationships is very important for Mike and I. There are a few ways we go about this delicate task of offering a bit of our lives to people and accepting the portion of their lives they offer to us. Never taking more than they give, always offering ourselves in return. Throwing parties, having people over for dinner, inviting people in. Even blogging is a way for us to let people into our story.

For Mike and I, this is how we connect with others. We ask them about their lives and they ask us about ours. From there, you can ether go really deep or stay surface and it really depends on those conversations where relationships go. Some go deep in a short amount of time, and others, take years and years, non the less, all of them are valuable.

Even those relationships that in the beginning seem draining to you….If you just wait long enough, and continue to be available and willing to walk with people, into their story to understand why they are the way they are, you end up with a magnificent gift. It is like a secret garden of flowers that all are beautiful in their own time. They all have different roles to play, you just have to wait around long enough for them to bloom.

We’ve learned over the years that less is more in regards to “calling people” out on “issues” in their lives. We believe the Holy Spirit is big enough and alive enough to guide and direct his people, and that at the right time, He will initiate a way to talk about whatever thing there is in a way that is helpful, meaningful and transformational. Let’s just say when I was younger, I did too much “calling out” in very well meaning ways but always ended in a relational train wreck and little helpfulness to show for it. I burnt my fingers on that stove one too many times.

So, for my fast approaching 34th year, I am committing to radically accepting people where they are at, loving them in the midst of sometimes painful process, not giving them answers to questions that should only be given by God and not one persons idea of what is right, and being open to “opening my mouth” only when prompted to by the Holy Spirit and quietly praying the rest of the time. I do this with no strings attached. I offer my friendship and loyalty with the full assumption that people will hurt me, (it is unfortunate that we do that to each other) and that in the process Jesus will teach me more about myself and who I was made to be.

So people, you have full permission to hold me to it this year!

I’ve been thinking through some foundational traditions we are instilling as a family.  I am also reading Winn Griffins,  God’ EPIC Adventure and putting some ideas together in my brain.

When our kids are 5, Mike takes them out on a “date” and shares with them the detailed story of our faith and God’s people.  In our faith community, at 13 the kids (boys at this point because non of the girls have reached thirteen yet) have a coming out thingy.  Our version of a bar mitzvah. 

I was thinking about baptism and how the catholic church does, confirmation.  In some cases it is dead or programmatic for people, but for many catholic Christians a very deep and meaningful experience, as it should be.  I have been wondering about that in our context.  Could we do something equally formational, as  a pillar in a young ones life that they will look back on for all time?

Yes, I think we can and we should.  So Mike and I have been toying with the idea, (clearly ripped off from Alpha) about taking Jackson on his 7th birthday on a “Holy Spirit” weekend.  With some of the older people in our community for a special time just for Jackson, and then the rest of our kids when they the appropriate age and ready to handle it.

Here is the time-line I have been thinking about.

• 0-5 - marinating in the family rhythm of faith.  Beginning to learn the story of our faith and our people.  Special lessons on their level  where they can grasp the mystery appropriately.  Specific emphasis on Jesus as the Good Shepherd as opposed to heaven/hell.
• around 5 as the Spirit leads - special date with Daddy where they really get to put together the pieces of the “good news”.  This is where Mike invites them to make Jesus their King.  It was very interesting when he did this with Jackson.  At the very moment Mike thought he would say yes just because he was Dad,  he didn’t.  He actually thought about it and said, “I want to wait until my birthday.”  Which was a few months away.  Then one day he road up to me on his bike after he had been out riding and he said, “Mom I decided to ask Jesus to be my king.” and road off.  I said something very unspiritual like, “Wow honey that is great, Jesus is so happy to be your king.”
• 5-7 Growing in understanding of that. A deeper requirement of them sitting and at least listening to discussions in our faith community, even if it is just coloring what they hear.
• around 7 -Special “Holy Spirit” weekend and baptism.
• 7-13 Training in the ways of the kingdom. Various activities determined by parents that are formational for disciples of Jesus.
• 13 - coming out party into man/womanhood. Presented with a purity gift and clear discussions about dating etc.
• 13 - 18 really helping and allowing our kids to determine their calling and what they are made for.  This is a “together” process.  International missions travel encouraged at this time.

I am learning that each stage and phase of a child’s development needs to be met with intentionality on the parents part.  It looks different at every stage, but there is an underlying process that is happening.  There isn’t any really clear defined road map for parenting, or training your kids up in the ways of the kingdom, so each family may choose to do this differently.  These are just a few of the things Mike and I have been kicking around!

Peace to all parents today!

I was praying the other day about our time in Peru.  I got a picture of an iceberg in my “minds eye”.  Then I felt like God was saying to me “Icebergs look like they are slow and unmoving on the surface, however underneath, in the unseen parts, is where the action is. Large shifts are happening.  Things are breaking loose, being set free, being destroyed etc. etc. ”

I would say that that image perfectly describes our Peruvian experience. Now after being home a little over a week, Mike and I continue to pray through our time in Peru.  Our re-entry has been fairly painless. God is refining and redefining many things for us.  We both feel like we will point back to that time for years to come as a “water shed” moment on many levels.

The kids yesterday asked, why we didn’t have any Tiko’s here.  They still pretend to play with their Spanish friends they met in Peru in their free play at home, and the speak gibberish as if they speak Spanish. I think that exposing yourself and your family to an international, missions experience is formative on so many levels.  Even just a week, causes you to see things differently.  You walk a little more quietly, you think a little more holistically.  Really priceless stuff. If you ever have the opportunity, I highly recommend it.

More to come!

I was in a grocery store.  I was standing at a produce counter with a man dressed in “travel” gear who was Australian I think, although we both spoke Spanish.  We had our conversation in both English and Spanish.  (A little side note - I routinely have dreams in which I am speaking fluent Spanish addressing a crowd of people.  Every time I dream this, I think wow I am speaking Spanish, and I usually have a  vague feel for what I am saying. Forsome reason I am wearing a business suit in past dreams.)

There were 2 young women standing in front of me who were Indian in traditional Indian dress with bendis/saris etc. The “travel” man was handing me fruit (that I had in Peru).  It wasn’t right out for everyone to get at, but tucked deep down in the center of the fruit stand. He was using a large machete to begin to cut open the fruit and then handed it to me half cut.  I then took a smaller knife, prepared the fruit the rest of the way and handed it to each of the women.  I taught them about the fruit and they ate and enjoyed the new flavor and texture. As far as I could tell, the 2 women didn’t really clue in to the Australian traveler, they were dealing directly with me.

The Australian “travel” man and I would converse in Spanish about these two women.  We both had some understanding of what the two women needed and he was guiding me on how to speak to them.  They both were very thankful and appreciative of the gift of fruit, hugged me and then left.

Then I woke up!  

Every night before I go to bed, I ask God to speak to me in my dreams, and give me deeper insight into his kingdom and what He is up to. I also pray this over our children. He routinely does. I believe this was a dream from God.  I have a bit of understanding of what it is about, but would love to hear any “interpretations” from those who feel that God is giving them a deeper understanding!

Our family was sitting at the dinner table with another couple sharing about our lives etc.  I had asked the couple to tell us about what they were doing in ministry.  The sweet older man started with “I got saved at 9 and…” and Jackson stopped him and said, “Saved from what?”  The man said “Hell”  and Jackson looked at us a little perplexed.   Jackson said “Saved from Hell?” and looked at him strangely.  He smiled and said “I will let your Mom and Dad deal with that one.” Jackson then looked at us questioningly.  We translated for him and said, “When he was 9 he decided to make Jesus his king and let him be the leader of his life.”  Jackson looked at him and said “Oh, I decided to do that at 5.” The man gently smiled at him and said “Good for you!” and then we went on with the discussion.  We had to adjust the language for him to understand what we were talking about.

This same type of thing happened for us last summer.  We were visiting a friends house, and she starting singing the song with the verse, “Don’t let Satan (blow) it out, I’m going to let it shine.”  Jackson stopped the whole song with, “Who is Satan?”.  Talk about feeling like the slacker Mom who doesn’t teach her kids.

It was at that awkward point, I realized, we don’t really focus on all of that with our kids being so young.  We focus on Jesus and his Lordship and his kingdom and that their are those in the kingdom and those outside of the kingdom waiting to be invited into the kingdom of God through Jesus and that we, as God’s peole get to do that. I think, for young children, if we focus on the person of Jesus and his great love for us, his shepherding and protection of his people and the opportunity to allow him to lead us, a very natural allegiance to him as King will develop without the unhealthy “fire insurance” that inoculates people to discipleship to Jesus.  I’ve prayed a prayer and now I am good and I don’t have to really follow Him with my real life.

So know that Jackson has deeper understanding, these topics (Satan and hell) are naturally coming up and we discuss them together.  It has been really good studying about people from ancient Rome.  We then talked about the armor of God and what we are fighting as God’s people.  He is always bringing that up now, as a 6.5 year old boy as he wants to fight battles.

My prayer is that Mike and I gently lead our children into the kingdom of God, always placing importance on discipleship to Jesus and his kingship. I wanted to leave it here in case it may be helpful to someone else.

Grace and Peace to all!

So I have been thinking a bit about our homeschool philosophy.  It was so fruitful for Mike and I to take some time to sit down and envision what kind of people we wanted our children to grow into.  What type of education we wanted our children to experience etc. etc.  It is linked above if you are interested in reading it but I was thinking about how helpful that whole task was.

Anyway, I believe I am going to do the same thing for what I want my life to look like in 20 years or so (let’s be honest 5 or 10 years would be good:-)) and then work backward from there.  What disciplines should I begin to undertake now, what experiences would be beneficial, what are important concepts to tackle as a family etc.

I firmly believe that God lead us to the Charlotte Mason method and Ambleside Online specifically.  With this being my first year homeschooling, I need the safety of a plan to keep me focused.  Once I am more established and understand our children’s learning styles better, I may branch out but for now, it is exactly what I need. That really came about from doing the work of writing out our home-school philosophy and then letting that “guide” us towards a method and curriculum for teaching. 

This whole trip to Peru really re-ignited in me a complete trust in the provision and sovereignty of God.  Somehow that got buried in the dust of life over the past 2-3 years. The ability to relax in His processes yet being fully engaged at the same time.  Kind of a both/and thing.  It seems a bit backwards to be relaxed and not in control but completely engaged and working towards something.  Submitted, yet willing to work but only work on what God is doing at any given time. Isn’t it lovely the working of the Holy Spirit? Again, I am thinking out loud as it always helps me own my process and dig into what God is working on.  Any helpful thoughts out there?

Well, My amazing husband is playing freeze dance  with the children upstairs to “Walking on Sunshine”, while I battle  what seems like aliens in my body. Good Times people. It seems a large portion of the conference  got a nasty virus,  not to mention I am suffering from altitude sickness at the same time.  Hey, it is one way to lose some weight!

I have been thinking about my last post about sustainable living and some recent thoughts by NT Wright on Christians misconception of heaven.  Give it  a read and let me know what you think.

“Training for Reigning”  peeps!  Our every day life and our little small choices day in and day out, do matter  for eternity. Pretty mind blowing  when  you really stop and  think  about it.

I have the pleasure of serving the children this week with Jeff and Carol Morgan.  Let me just say that these jokers do not mess around.  You want to find out about how to create sustainable living for your own family, spend 1 hour with Jeff and Carol and you will be dreaming.  I have been wanting to have an in-home kitchen composter for years now.  I have done online research and havn’t really found what I thought would work for our family.

In about 5 minutes Jeff shared with me a cheap, simple and effective way of composting all kitchen waste.  I can’t wait to start when we get home.  I have been thinking through now for some time, how to begin developing sustainable living.  How does a typical suburban family pull this off, practically?  I don’t even own any land, except about 2 feet around 2 sides of our town home in a planned development.  Can I do this with no land?  Well, yes, and people all over the world with very little space are doing it and doing it well. 

As Christians, it is something that we need to seriously look at.  Recycling, using less consumable paper products like paper plates etc. are important issues that I don’t think most people think about.  I guess it depends on your theology and your exposure to the rest of the world. Are we not as Christians to be renewing this world, as we wait for The Father to bring about total renewal? I tell you what, no one in Peru uses paper plates or paper towels.  You even have to bring your own TP when you are out and about, and it isn’t necessarily a conservation thing it is a cost thing.

Anyway, my mind is churning with thoughts about this, but here is another helpful resource that may help you just start thinking. Jeff told me about ECHOa ministry in SW Florida that is fascinating.  I plan to take the kids over for a homeschool field trip.  I see earth boxes (homemade) or maybe square foot gardening in our homeschooling future.  I may not live on a farm, but darn it I am going to have  a garden. 

Well this morning Mike came downstairs and there was a bird in our kitchen.  It was trapped and trying to get out, so Mike let it free.  There is tons of new wildlife here for us to observe.  The kids are really enjoying the news birds and flowers they see and the experience of climbing “mountains” (really, high hills) with the panoramic picture of the Andean mountain chain in the background.  We are picking new flowers most days and have them in our home.  That is the fun and beautiful part of living here. 

It is a hard life though.  It takes tons of work, just to gather food to eat here.  Cleaning is literally a full time job. You have to think well in advance of everything you do, definitely no drive-threws (sp?) here if you are hungry.  I have so much respect for the Styrons and the Williams who have sacrificed everything to live here among these beautiful people proclaiming the goodness of the kingdom of God and the life of following Jesus.  It is slow, unseen, hard work in any culture, but I think especially challenging when you add in the language barrier.  God is good and He is moving, so when you think of it please pray for our dear family in Peru who work hard and long with little thanks or acknowledgment. (That is the way of Jesus though isn’t it?)

Not to mention, the other day, as 24 of us sat down to eat lunch together in a small, quiet seemingly friendly spot, Grace got her purse stolen right in front of all of us.  I was trying to process what was happening, while she and a few others were up and running after the little, daring, punk.  Grace is 10 and speaks fluent Spanish and English and living in Peru is almost all she knows.  All her favorite birthday things, and special ten year old girl things were in there, including her birthday ipod from her grandparents.  So sad.  I just hugged her, and then a worship circle member gave her his ipod and she was blessed by God’s provision. 

At every table here, they have leather cords with little snap hooks on the end, so you can chain your purse to the table, so it wont’ be stolen, hopefully. Our friend Lucy had her pocket cut open when a man with a knife tried to steal her cell phone.  She fought him off.  Our friends, The Morgans (seriously cool people who I will introduce you to later) were jumped by 7 people trying to steal some of their legal documents and other items.  They fought them off too.  Although they say it was the Angels who did it for them. The week before we arrived, 3 different missionaries where kidnapped in Tekos, and accosted to get there money. 

So we are careful here.  We always travel together as a family and only take “approved” tekos and I don’t carry a purse.  If I would of thought about it enough, I wouldn’t of worn my wedding ring, but I just never take it off so I forgot about it.  It is very modest, but here it seems like royalty.  So keep praying for us.  The conference is underway and very fruitful so far.  New, deep, life-long, kingdom relationships are being formed that will be nurtured for eternity.  Despite the hardness of this trip, it is a beautiful thing

All of the other “gringos” including worship circle arrive from Lima today.  The kids are happy to see Mr. Mitch again.  They connected with him at Lee and Dori’s wedding and feel like they have a friend.  We are all excited to met and make new friends.

Last night a few of us gathered together to pray and seek the Lord for this conference.  It is very interesting how God put all of this together.  So many different connections and people coming together all for one purpose, to proclaim that the kingdom has come in Peru and that all are welcome to enter in. Freedom for all!

As I was going to bed last night, the Lord was showing me several things to pray for in particular.  There is a ton of oppression here that is very, very old.  You don’t need to look very far into the history of this country to understand there are very strong spiritual strongholds that are centuries old. Pray with us that God will set the captives free over the next few days.  I was reminded last night, as I was praying, about the unbelievable spiritual revival that is occurring in South America.  I am praying for nothing less than the miraculous these next few days.

I had a strong sense last night that we should usher in this conference with worship. So pray with us.  This morning we have Sara Groves kicking.  As we clean (it seems that is all I do here) we are worshipping and dancing our way into this conference. Hudson loves to dance to loud worship music, so plug in your ipod (or whatever you use to listen to music with) and rock out with us!

Grace and Peace to all! 

Jackson has been putting some pieces together theologically speaking.  I love to watch God call our children.  Anyone who doesn’t believe God speaks today hasn’t spent time with a thoughtful child.  There are days you could knock me over with a feather with things that my children say to me concerning God and his overarching rule and reign. 

About a year ago, he realized that not everyone decides to follow Jesus with their whole life.  A few days ago he asked me, what happens to people who don’t follow Jesus when they die.  Let me tell you,  it was a fascinating discussion.  By the end he was completely perplexed at why anyone would ever choose to not follow Jesus. 

After our discussion he said “Mom, Satan walks around this earth taking on different forms, in order to trick people to follow him instead of God, like when he took the form of a snake in the garden.”  I said yes, he said that is why we wear our armour to fight him. I again said “yes”.  Then there was a long period of silence.  I wonder what he is thinking about and what God is showing him.  It keeps the mystery of our faith alive and exciting to me almost every day!

Throughout the centuries and all over the world artists of tried to depict the nativity.  Here is just a small sampling. Wherever you may be in the world, Grace and Peace to you!

“And this is what will prove it to you:
you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.”
(Luke 2:12)

mid-1500’s

Mexico  

Korea

India

Japan

Human maturity is delayed gratification. ~ Scott Peck

Christian maturity is a willingness to see an argument through to the end and not have quick fix spirituality or missiology clutter your thinking. ~NT Wright

A new poster, Raffi recommended some audios that NT Wright has done.  I wanted to link to them here, in case one of you out there would be interested in giving them a listen.  All I have to say is, if western Christians, (or Christians in general) could get a hold of these concepts, I think the face of Christianity would look radically different. 

Enjoy them! I certainly have.

I have loved to read since the 2nd grade,  I stayed awake at night under my covers reading for hours after my parents said it was time for bed.  I was a history major in college because I loved a good story.   I would love to see more people read, and read deeply. It is so helpful in shaping ones thinking.   Here is a  sample of what I am reading.  It changes every month, although a few of these I have been working on for some time. 

Little Men 

My friend described this as a great story but really a great book on parenting.  She is right! It is fun to read it with a parents perspective.

Soul Talk 

Any friend of Dallas Willard is a friend of mine, so Larry Crabb is “in like flynn”. This book  was just recommended to me and so far it is great.  I love the idea of spiritual direction and how it is practiced.  I think I could see myself moving in that direction once the children are grown.

Pinocchio -

It is important to learn to obey what ever the cost.  Really, honestly….., whatever the cost and teach your kids the same thing too.

A Long Obedience in the Same Direction 

The title says it all.   I love Eugene Peterson like he is my grandfather.  I don’t know why.  Maybe it is because I listened to a course he did from Regent called “Soul Craft” right in the beginning of my deconstruction of “what is means to be the church.” It was a gentle voice in the midst of the chaos.

Crafted Prayer 

Graham Cooke hits it home when he talks about the reality of most Christians prayer life and the opportunity for us to grow into what prayer is really meant to be.  Kind of like, you can use prayer like an aspirin for a headache or enjoy prayer like being in tune with “mission control” during an exciting adventure unfolding minute by minute

NT wright - audio series - and as a result the synoptic gospels specifically.  

This is like eating a man size t-bone steak.  Definitely, slow steady bites keep you moving through it.  I love the audios because I can play them over and over when I am working in the kitchen.  You know kind of “kickin’ it” Brother Lawrence style.

Charlotte Mason Companion 

 This women was so passionate about educational reform.  I love big picture ideas to move me forward with my homeschooling journey.  She paints a vivid picture that I pray to attain with our home school. I am the type of person, who has to know “why”  a certain thing is prescribed before I wholeheartedly embrace it. I don’t mean the “why” because it is a good idea or cute or the right thing to do, but what certain things are doing holistically.  Once I understand the “why” I am off and running passionately.  She paints a solid picture for the “why” that is for sure.  That is why I was drawn to Maria Montessori and Sophia Cavaletti and ultimately Charlotte Mason.

The Secret Garden-

“Gentle words give life.” and conversely the opposite holds true as well.  It is so  important to speak life into people and teach your kids to do the same.

So these are the words rambling around in my grey matter, along with grocery lists, chores to be done and when is the next time I can take a nap without being interrupted.

Peace to all!

I have  a great idea for you for last minute Christmas shopping for your kids.

Sponsor a child with them, about their age through Compassion International. Our children start to sponsor a child on their 5th birthday.  Jackson was able to choose the child he wanted to sponsor and has written letters and sent pictures to him regularly the past year.  I showed the children the video clip on the Compassion website and it has really stuck with them.  They talk about it amongst each other frequently.

It is one of his most favorite days when a letter comes in from Josias from Peru.    We will be visiting Josias in Feb. on our trip to Peru.  I am excited and interested to see how this will shape and form Jackson as he grows in understanding of the kingdom of God and being a disciple of Jesus. 

It is only about 30 dollars a month to sponsor a child.  You can pay for an entire year at one time and it is tax deductible at the end of the year. Come on, it is only $360 for and entire year to change a child’s life.  Just stop going out to eat one time a month and you have the money right there. 

OK - I am getting off of my soap box now.  Merry Christmas to all~

Theologians like, Wright, Peterson,Willard and my brilliant husband have helped me understand New testament eschatology and the kingdom of God. I think I will spend this lifetime chipping away at my understanding of it.  Or maybe I should say, living it.   I frequently find my husband’s nose in one of these books. So obviously, I have read some of N.T. Wrights books as well. 

I love to read and to learn new things.   For the past few years I have been captured by the concept of the kingdom of God and reading and studying about this reality has been very life giving to me.   Presently reigning and ruling, healing and transforming is the primary work of Jesus and the advancement of his kingdom is breaking forth continually.  I think Willard says that “The kingdom of God is present anywhere that Jesus gets his way.”  

I have been listening (over and over again) to NT Wright’s talk on Whatever did St Paul do with the Kingdom of God.  It has been deepening my understanding of the Kingdom of God and the rule and reign of Jesus. Take a listen for yourself and tell me what you think. (You will find the link in the middle of the page.)

Our family has done a really good job this year of not getting tripped up in all the Christmas madness.  We have intentionally not been busy.  We are still making time for friends and neighbors and we have been very modest in our spending for Christmas.  Because we rarely watch network television (our children watch none) we haven’t seen all the crazy Christmas ads and I am blissfully unaware at home during the day of outside happenings.

That coupled with my desire to help our children grab hold of the joy of giving I have been thinking through some things we can do together.   I am considering having us make some special pictures to deliver to a local assisted living facility with maybe carnations.  The children have so much fun delivering special treats to neighbors near by, I thought I would make it a big deal and prepare a whole day of giving for us.  I don’t want it to take a ton of money to pull off or be stressful in anyway to prepare.

Have any of you done something like this or have any ideas?

Welcome to the Advent season dear friends.  What a calm special time of year to reflect on the mystery of the Christian faith.  I first was taught about Advent, its meaning, and how it may be helpful to a persons discipleship to Jesus, in my COGS training 4 years ago. 

We use a few symbols around our home, like an advent wreath, a creche and the liturgical colors.  This year we put a purple  bow on our wreath outside on the door. 

So this Advent, I am taking extra special care to be slow and disarm my cynicism.  I am thinking of Isaiah who proclaimed to a dry and weary people that “they would see a great light”.   I wonder if I were alive and heard him with my own ears if I would of believed him?  Maybe I would of been cynical and said something like “Yeah right…when?”  Maybe that is how a lot of God’s people felt?  Thankfully for us, He came anyway.

So Hold on to child like wonder with me friends.   This whole amazing journey of being a called out and sent people of God, is budding and blooming and pressing forward in this season, and I for one want to experience the joy of it this year again.

I am a bit giddy with excitement.

“Come Lord Jesus

Come Lord Jesus

Come Lord Jesus

Come and be born in our hearts.”

Anyone read anything from Wendell Berry?  Good stuff.  Makes you slow down and meander awhile.  I started reading Berry when I heard Peterson recommend his work. If Eugene  recommended  it I thought it would be enriching.  Peterson says whenever Berry mentions “farmer” think pastor and when he mentions “farm” think church.  Yowzah! That will give you some food to think about.

His work makes me think about time, and how to use it.  How to be rooted in one place, connected to the land, honoring the Creator for what he has given me.  Time to unwind, relax  and learn to be in one place for a long time, with the people around you for a long time, with your daily life laying down tracks in a given place.  I think we tend to keep thinking of the next thing, or the next place or when………well you know the grass always seems to be greener.  Guess what. It’s not.

So I am working on not looking around at everyone and everything else.  I am looking down, enjoying the space and the day that has been given to me, working “the land” I have been given and thoroughly enjoying every square inch.  So today, enjoy the space of time and land you have been given.  Even if it is hard, if you slow down a bit and ask “God what do you have for me here?” you will find a treasure trove that is just for you!

Peace to all~

Have I mentioned before that Richard Foster is one of my spiritual heroes?   Classical SD are to be used by ordinary people, not by spiritual giants.  When I first got my head around the fact that everyday people, with everyday jobs and concerns where supposed to use these disciplines as a way to experiencing the “fullest life” in Christ, I had an “a-ha” moment.   I was blown away when I realized that there was more to Christian Spiritual Disciplines than reading your bible and praying. Go get the book and see for yourself.  It will be like a cool drink of water for you.

Every week, I  do less and less in the way of busyness.  I quietly move through my house work and schooling.  I have no game plan, just living in the moment, enjoying the space, enjoying the fact I don’t have it all together.  I am not taking myself too seriously, and trying to learn from our children how to “not have a care in the world”. Funny, I thought I was supposed to be “schooling” them.

Each moment I am given, I have the opportunity to keep choosing Jesus as my King, keep choosing His Kingdom and not my own.   So on this quiet day of rest, I wanted to leave you all with a teaser from the beginning of the book. 

“I go through this life as a transient on his way to eternity, made in the image of God but with that image debased, needing to be taught how to meditate, to worship, to think. ~ Donald Coggan”

Superficiality is the curse of our age.  The doctrine of instant satisfaction is a primary spiritual problem.  The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people. Celebration of Discipline ~ Richard Foster. pg 1

Peace to you~

One of the spiritual disciplines I have started teaching our kids about is one of “acting in the opposite spirit”. This is how I started our discussion. What is the opposite of black and they responded white.  I continued with hot and they said cold, fast and they said slow.  Then I said, one of the little secrets about how Jesus calls us to live in the kingdom of God is acting opposite of how you feel.  It is a secret tool to keep our hearts soft like clay so God can keep working on us, otherwise we get hard and then we don’t hear God very well. I was relating this all back to the story of “The King of the Golden River”.  I wont tell you how because I don’t want to ruin the story for you, but the kids understood exactly what I meant.

So I continued, If you are mad at your siblings how could someone who follows Jesus respond?  They thought about it and said, be nice and hug them and help them.  We talked about a few other things too.  Like what could we do if we REALLY wanted money or things and that was all you thought about. (again relating it back to “The King of the Golden River”) They said, give money and stuff away.  Now I have a reference point to refer back to as we move forward together as a family.

We talked about how throughout the story of God’s People, we have been learning how to act opposite and do what Jesus would do and not what the world would do or what maybe feels the best. So this morning the children were playing Lego’s upstairs and Jackson came down and explained an interaction he had with his sister.  Then he said “Mommy aren’t you proud of me I acted opposite”.

If you are interested in learning more about spiritual disciplines I HIGHLY recommend the book Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster.  This book is on my all time top ten list. 

 Jackson and I are reading the beginning of Genesis.  A few years ago I did series of 7 oil paintings representing all 7 days.  I gave them as a wedding gift and have wanted to recreate them for some time.  This week the kids and I will do it together and they will hang in the boys room.  I will post them here for all to enjoy.

Some may not be familiar with this term. I was not until a few years ago myself. I am so glad that I have been blessed with a deeper understanding of what spiritual direction is and how Christians can benefit immensely from it. It comes out of the Catholic tradition, and although I am not Catholic, there are many tools from that stream that I wholeheartedly embrace.

For some time now, I have been working on the disciplines of silence and solitude. I do not schedule as much as I need to, but I must say what I do do is revolutionary. I would say more so than most any other discipline I have ever practiced within my Christian faith. I found this quote and it really highlights the value of these.

There is something both appealing and transforming about silence and solitude. Other than Jesus Christ, perhaps the greatest men under each Covenant—Moses and Paul—were both transformed through years in virtual isolation in a remote wilderness. And there are moments in our pressure-cooker days when years of escape to some hidden place sounds wistfully compelling to the Christian spirit.

Before we had our third child, I was visiting a spiritual director at a catholic retreat center in the local area. She is a widow with 4 grown children and joined the Cenacle Sisters in order to dive into her faith more deeply. I’ve been wanting to give her a ring and set some time up with her again. Now that I am spending 90% of time with the dear kids, I need a little “spiritual direction” if you know what I mean. Just wanted to share a little of what I am processing through as it may be helpful to others.

1. Weekly scheduled times of silence and solitude.  Lately I have found that if I don’t get this, I get all out of whack and take it  out on my family.  Serious bad deal all the way around.  Willard and other theologians have said this is one of the most important spiritual disciplines for western Christians because  of the frantic pace of our lifestyle.  In my humble opinion I tend to agree.

2. Daily scheduled time to work on me.  Whether it is working out, reading or painting, if I don’t get this I start getting resentful.  This is not a good deal ether. Charlotte Mason called this “Mother Culture”.  How can a mom stay balanced and offer her best to her family when she is strung out and never gets ant time just for her?  

3. Discipline to think of what the other person is saying and not what I want to say. The first two disciplines help me to relax and “center down” as the Quakers used to say. This allows me to actually get “outside” myself when I am with other people.  Have you ever thought about how many times you interrupt someone when they are talking before they are through. (Think of the little people in your home too!)

Make a choice today, to be right where you are and not three steps ahead.  Let people finish their own sentences and don’t think of how you will answer them before they are through speaking. Go “pencil in” some time just for you to work on you and then practice being still and silent.   You will be amazed at what you might hear!

This piece is inspired by Mommy Zabs group writing project.

For the linky love here are the other entries for your reading pleasure:-)

I want to instill in our children the love of story.  It is one of my main homeschooling goals. It is probably one of the main reasons I love the Ambleside Online website so much and the homeschooling curriculum found there.  It is packed full of wonderful literature and a well thought out and laid out plan for introducing our children to the love of not only learning but of really good stories.  I think that skill is pivotal in their holistic formation as disciples of Jesus too.  His story is so powerful and we are part of it living it out in this world.   If we can immerse them into His powerful narrative, not just facts, and memorized verses, but the whole redemptive plan laid out by God, they will  be guided well through this life. Their faith wont be something that their parents adhere to, but they will be captured by it and hold it as their own.

 I have just  read Charlotte’s Web out loud to the children.  As an adult I find it a profound narrative that blesses me deeply as I read it out loud to our children.  As I think about this book and others that we will read with our children, I am inspired by the power of good story telling.  It is something I aspire to improve at. 

Imagine, an ugly runt that wallows in manure all day, destined to death, is saved by the smallest most insignificant creature who writes amazing messages that inspire the masses.  These messages are actually counter cultural to all that people thought a pig could be. This small creature shames the wisest in the barnyard and preaches messages of hope that actually teach Wilbur his worth.  In her death, Wilbur’s life is saved and he is able to continue to spread the original message of hope.  Sounds like a radical concept that might just change the world. 

It makes me start to dream.  Dream of how I will be able to relate things of the kingdom of God to our children, using this beautiful story as a reference point for them.  In this story, hidden meaning of the kingdom of God is revealed and that is the power of good narrative! Thanks E.B. White.  You told  a darn good story!

One of my readers asked me to expound on what a prayer station is.  Our faith community has used them off and on over the years and they have always been a very special experience for me.  Think of a prayer station as an interactive, piece of art that allows you to connect with the Father on a deeper level than just sitting down with your eyes closed.  There is nothing wrong with that, this is a just more sensory experience.

Here is a link to some ideas on prayer stations from the UK.  Use this as a jumping off point.  The way I have done it before is by having a group of friends prepare something to bring that everyone can participate in.  We set them up all over a home, and quietly moved through every station.  The same could work in a church building or third space.  Let it be your particular groups expression of what they are learning from the Father.  What a great way to learn more about your group in a deeper way. 

Some of my favorites have been , making your own flat bread for communion and then meditating on the “last supper”.  Using an inspiring song with some visual components.  Really the sky is the limit.  It is a fun event that allows people to enter into prayer in a active way.  Engaging all of the senses for a special worship experience.  It is inspiring me to want to set up another one.  We used to do one on Halloween night every year.  It was our way of being counter cultural by worshipping the Father.

If you chose to set one up, please take pics and email them to me.  I will gladly post them here.

 ”A wise woman builds up her house.” Proverbs 14:1

I remember when I was in my early 20’s and I was hanging out with a friend in her early 30″s she said something that I now can say is true. She said “Your 30’s are so much better than your 20’s.  You finally fit into your skin.”  I would have to second that! I gather that is more true the older you become. 

It it funny, I know less now than I thought I new then.  I am less idealistic, more introspective and have  more questions than I have answers. I was talking to my “homeschooling diva” friend (who actually home schooled back in the day when it was illegal) and she said “Isn’t God good, using the hardness of things to get at your heart.”  I am seconding that one too!

Lot’s of thoughts running around today in my head about my calling, child training and how it trains us, the freedom that comes from discipline and the absolute necessity for finding Sabbath rest in the midst of it all. 

 I am off to build my house~ Peace to all!

Eugene Peterson has said that being a well read person is as important to your spiritual formation as is, silence, solitude, prayer or any other spiritual discipline.  It is a way of letting words shape you, allowing yourself to here the rhythm and cadence of language so that the poetry of scripture can slide smoothly into your soul. 

 So I have been out and about and found a few good books that I will be reading over the next few months.  I want to thank Randi at Let’s just say… for a great beginning. I am pushing past the bounds of just homeschooling “fair” and letting words shape me. I will keep adding to this list as I progress. Let me know some of your faves.  I wonder were it will take me? Look around and see if you find something that interests you.   This is part of my “soul craft” so come learn with me.

 I am adding and building the content of this site on an ongoing basis.  One of the things I will be providing for my readers is a “book of the week recommendation”  I love to read.  I have always loved to read and in fact sat in elementary school bored to tears every day reading books inside my desk as the teacher droned on and on.  I would stay up late at night after my parents had tucked me in with a flashlight under the covers.

Reading is one of my favorite past times and so I thought I would post here what I am currently tackling.  Check back often as I will always be updating and growing my knowledge base. 

Currently Reading:

• Charlotte Mason Companion by Karen Andreola
• Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Burns -I snagged this off ot Truevyns site.  If she is reading it it must be good:-)
• Confessions of an Organized Homemaker: The Secrets of Uncluttering Your Home and Taking Control of Your Life by Deniece Schofield

Just Finished:

• Death by Suburb by David Goetz
• Hints on Child Training by H. Clay Trumbull

for our extended church family in Peru.  I am posting an email we recieved early this am.  Mike and I heard of reports of the earthquake in Lima and have been praying for the church as well as those who have so little and are now left with nothing.  This world is so fragile.  It is only the hope of Jesus that sustains us in any country that we live in.  You can visit their blogs found in my blog roll under “Peruvian Posse” for any possible updates.  Here is an article that will help fill in some more detail for you.

Good Morning~
As many of you may know by the news this morning, a massive earthquake struck Peru last night. As more information comes in this morning, it seems that the damage is very severe and many people, already very poor, have been left homeless. 
Arequipa faired well, though we felt the quake quite strongly here as well.  We are fine and none of us had any damage to our homes.  We are considering how we might help our friends in Chincha and surrounding areas and hoping to hear from friends in Lima this morning.  We’ll keep you posted as we know more.
Below is an email Lee sent out this morning- 
Please pray with us for the people of this country…
 

Good morning friends,

I assume that most of you have heard about the massive earthquake that hit Peru on Wednesday evening.  First, just wanted to write and let all know that we are all o.k. here in Arequipa, though we did feel the quake.  A little before 7 PM Michael, Dori and I, were in my home when we noticed the back door rattling and the walls swaying back and forth.  This wave-like motion is different from the usual earthquakes down here that tend to be short and jolting.  The quake lasted close to a minute.

After finally getting through on the phone to the Styron’s (they have a television and saw pictures of Lima and people in the streets), we began hearing reports that the quake was a very large one, and that the epicenter was only forty miles from Chincha Alta - the town were I first served the Church here in Peru.  I then began trying to reach a number of our friends there, but the phone lines were full.  I also tried contacting missionary friends in Lima without any success. 

Mike Styron and I were already planning to arrive in Chincha Alta on Thursday, August 30 to begin a three-day ministry conference at the invitation of a couple pastors and local congregations there.  I have many, many friends (those who know the Lord and others that don’t) in Chincha, and would ask that, as you are able, you would seperate some time during your day to intercede to the Lord on behalf of His people here in Peru, that they might receive consolation from Jesus, and be a source of consolation for others, and for this nation that has suffered so much and needs to know the healing touch of Our God.

More to come…

–Lee