Learning to be a Blessing

Ich bin...
[Tana]. Child of God. Teacher. Youth leader. Music-minded. Blessed.
Ich liebe...
[Jesus]. My Family. My Church. P & W. Mission Trips. Music. Prayer. Traveling. Writing. Drama. Sunshine. Languages. Photography. Badminton. Nature. Snail Mail. Fruit. Green. Simplicity. Listening.

29 November 2006
my mind has been such a blur today, ever since receiving news about one of my dearest, closest friends. how fast our lives and its contents can be taken from us, altered dramatically, and become entirely out of our control.

because He lives, i can face tomorrow
because He lives, all fear is gone
because i know He holds the future
...

thanks, Jesus, for bringing my sister through the ordeal. pray that You'll hold her tighter than ever as she faces what's ahead, be it more tough times or the light at the end of this shocking tunnel.

posted by simplejoys @ 23:51
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27 November 2006
Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.

The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
(Habakkuk 3:17-19)

this is one of my favorite passages. it really speaks to the challenge we are each issued ~ will we wallow in pity and complain to those left and right about our hardships or can we still praise our Maker simply because of who He is, regardless of how brutal and unpromising our life seems at any given moment?

this month, our fellowship has been exploring the theme of perseverance. and never is this more needed than in those situations where we are tempted to ask, "Where is God when it hurts?"

a couple who are very close to my heart, both as friends and ministry partners, recently have been through much pain as they are forced to deal with the loss of both their fathers. it hurts beyond belief to watch those you love slip away right before your eyes, yet can you remain strong in His promises and allow His embrace to be what sustains you through these moments, knowing that He will carry you through, as He always has? i'm inspired by my sister and brother. and though you may not know the people or the circumstance, please pray also. may His joy truly be their strength when they need it the most, and may He bring healing to these hurting souls.


...

other randoms from the weekend
  • new + old friends + hot pot + house visits
  • preps for the kids' Christmas performance
  • thorns are painful but essential to progress

  • posted by simplejoys @ 10:31
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    20 November 2006
    posted by simplejoys @ 14:28
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    10 November 2006


    HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A PRECIOUS ANGEL!!

    you bring sweetness, joy and inspiration to all those around you, even in your own valleys and struggles. thanks for giving so much of your time, patience, grace and heart to endlessly hear and help me out. simple, deep friendships are one of God's greatest gifts in the body of Christ, and i will cherish ours forever. thank you, sister! <3 <3



    posted by simplejoys @ 08:17
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    02 November 2006
    Angels are all around
    God truly knows what we need even before we ask. These days I find myself faced with a dilemma that's eerily similar to the one at the end of the summer. But God is faithful, and sends His angels to provide perspective, prayers and padded shoulders even before I thought to seek them out beyond a few words in passing conversation. Love you beyond words and thank you, Angels J & F!



    When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;
    When troubles come and my heart burdened be;
    Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
    Until you come and sit awhile with me.

    You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
    You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
    I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
    You raise me up... To more than I can be.


    posted by simplejoys @ 15:03
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