My Love

In honor of Valentine's Day and our impending nuptials (40 days!), I thought I'd write a little something about my love.

Here are some of the reasons I love Jeremy...

40. Because he's hilarious.
39. Because he's the most genuine person I know.
38. Because he's passionate about everything.
37. Because he's my favorite pastor.
36. Because he's always trying to surprise me.
35. Because he loves the Lord.
34. Because he goes out of his way to make me comfortable.
33. Because he's calm when I'm unreasonable.
32. Because he grew a beard for me, and kept it through the hot summer.
31. Because he's sentimental.
30. Because he's always looking for ways to serve.
29. Because he loves kids almost as much as I do.
28. Because he's handsome.
27. Because he lets me be ridiculous.
26. Because he is way too smart for me.
25. Because he's witty.
24. Because he's opinionated. About everything.
23. Because he's charming.
22. Because he faithfully proclaims the Word.
21. Because he's a closet Calvinist.
20. Because he listens to my constant babble.
19. Because he gives the best hugs.
18. Because he is the opposite of me in almost every way.
17. Because he loves the Church.
16. Because he's passionate about ministry.
15. Because he challenges me.
14. Because he is a great leader.
13. Because he's a man of conviction.
12. Because he is incredibly loyal.
11. Because he pursues me.
10. Because he watches SVU with me.
9. Because he is going to be a great father.
8. Because he is going to be a great husband.
7. Because he has a wealth of trivia knowledge.
6. Because people love and respect him.
5. Because he's a hard worker.
4. Because he's honest about his short-comings.
3. Because I never get tired of being around him.
2. Because he chose me.
1. Because he is everything I could have possibly wanted in a husband and so much more.

Odds and Ends

Okay okay, I know I have been neglecting this blog, but the past few weeks have been a whirlwind! Which basically just means I'm going to do an obligatory "update" post instead of something more interesting. Sue me.


5. Honduras was awesome! So thankful that the Lord allowed me to participate in His work there. Trip highlights include: teaching VBS, serving with Jeremy and getting to watch him do what he does best, getting to talk and play with some of the cutest kiddos ever, phase 10 tourney and watching other team members serve and have their giftedness used for His glory.

4. I'm officially registered for Summer classes! Right now I'm signed up for Topics in Latin American History, Spanish, Biographies of Outstanding Missionaries and Philosophy and Principles of Christian Education.

3. I may or may not have ran over a gallon of white paint with my dark gray car. I was on a dark highway and I didn't see it in time to swerve, so I ended up with a sweet custom paint job. Thankfully, my friend's husband has a wealth of random knowledge and knew to use lighter fluid to clean it off! So, word to the wise, if you ever get paint all over your car, use lighter fluid and then wash with soap. Works like a charm.

2. I visited my BFFAE in Oklahoma a couple weekends ago! I loved getting to spend time with her and meet all her Okla-homies (I couldn't help myself). Even though the weather wasn't ideal, I really enjoyed getting to fellowship and do life with her for a weekend.

1. On Monday, I turned twenty-one! This week has been full of celebration and I can't wait to fly home tomorrow (best birthday present ever, Yerms) to celebrate with my awesome boyfriend and family. I have felt so special and loved these past few days. I am so grateful for the people in my life that have made it a great birthday and I am beyond excited to see what the Lord has in store for this next year.


Alright, that about covers it! Over and out, bloggies.

Salvation Belongs to the Lord

In preparing my heart for Honduras the Lord has been so faithful to renew, encourage and sustain me. This morning I was reminded of something that I think is so vital for Believers to understand: Salvation Belongs to the Lord. Here are just a few of the scriptures that reiterate this truth:

• Salvation belongs to the Lord; your blessing be on your people! Psalm 3:8

• The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord; he is their stronghold in the time of trouble. Psalm 37:39

• On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God. Psalm 62:7

• I, I am the Lord, and besides me there is no savior. Isaiah 43:11

• Declare and present your case; let them take counsel together! Who told this long ago? Who declared it of old? Was it not I, the Lord? And there is no other god besides me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none besides me. Isaiah 45:21

• But I am the Lord your God from the land of Egypt; you know no God but me, and besides me there is no savior. Hosea 13:4

• But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. Salvation belongs to the Lord! Jonah 2:9

• and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” Revelation 7:10

• After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God... Revelation 19:1

I am so thankful for this truth and for the freedom and comfort that comes from it! I can't wait to see what the Lord does in Honduras. I don't know what this trip will look like, but I am rejoicing in the knowledge that God has the power to save, heal, redeem and restore. May He be glorified and known among all people.

"For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him."
1 Thessalonians 5:9-10

Mission Statement

In one of my classes we were told to create a personal mission statement by which we would live our lives. So, after thinking about it for a while (and completing the 15 page booklet that was meant to help guide us...), this is what I came up with:

My mission is to live a life marked by a heart that longs to serve and worship the Lord. Regardless of circumstances, trials, or the cost; I will seek to daily live a life worthy of the Gospel. My efforts will be driven by grace and my motives driven by love, and I will view myself and others in light of the Cross. In all things, I will remember the reason I have been created, to delight in and worship God alone. In my dealings with people my words will be seasoned with grace and joy, and in every realm of life I will continually pursue God’s will with zeal, faithfulness and humility.

Now I'm just praying my life will resemble my mission. Soli Deo gloria.

Snow Day Essentials

In honor of our FIFTH snow day, I've decided to compile a list of my 10 snow day essentials... you know, since I'm pretty much an expert at this point ;)

10. Warm, water-proof clothes. If nothing else, Snowpocalypse 2011 has made me realize that I wouldn't make it a week in the north with my current wardrobe! I usually end up just throwing on layer after layer to stay warm and create that oh-so-chic, hobo look.

9. Homemade hot cocoa. One of my roommates makes THE best hot chocolate this side of North Dakota. Throw a little sea salt on the top and BAM, best cold weather drink ever.

8. Playing cards. During snow day 2, my roommates introduced me to a little game called Nertz, and even though there were some frustrating first rounds, I think I finally got the hang of it! I even "nertzed" for the first time during snow day 4! Haha.

7. Friends DVDs seasons 1-10. Okay okay, we don't have all 10 seasons, but we have managed to watch at least 4 of the seasons in record time!

6. Podcasts. So far I haven't had to miss church, but it's nice knowing I can still access sermons online. And the extra time has meant I've gotten to listen to some I probably wouldn't have had time for before!

5. Plenty of soup and Ritz crackers. There is just something so right about a big bowl of hot soup when it's 20 degrees outside. These past two weeks I've been eating taco soup like it's my job.

4. Fleece blankets. If it was socially acceptable I would carry a huge, fleece blanket with me at all times. So cozy.

3. Ice. I know this may sound a little strange, but my townhome has had to nurse more bangs and bruises since the ice came than ever before. I know I don't normally exude grace and balance, but I fell at least 5 times one day!

2. Friends. My friends have been my lifeline these past few days... being stuck on campus would have been a LOT worse without them.

1. Boyce Avenue (or whatever music strikes your fancy). This version of this song is my current obsession.

Spring 2011

Hey, blogsters! It's hard to believe it has been so long since my last post... I guess I didn't realize how busy this winter break was going to be, and with the Spring semester already in full force I doubt it's going to get any easier at this point! It's okay though, I'm excited for all that this next semester/year has in store :)


Here's how my classes* are shaping up thus far:

- Applied Hermeneutics: This will definitely be my hardest class this semester, but I'm hoping to learn a lot. It's one of my grad classes, so I'm really hoping to start out on a high note!

- Spanish: Last year this was my best grade of the semester (ironic considering I'm terrible at conversational Spanish), but I'm still hoping for a repeat! Oh, and my professor is beyond precious. Love her.

- Biblical Servant Leadership: I haven't actually done anything in this class yet (we meet for the first time tomorrow), but I'm super excited about it! It's my other grad class, so it'll probably have a heavier course load, but it should still be good.

- Psychology of Abnormal Behaviors: Okay, I know it might be weird but I'm super excited about this class. It was originally supposed to fill the coveted blow-off spot in my schedule, but I'm starting to think it's actually going to require some effort on my part... which is okay considering in a couple months I will finally be able to diagnose all the weirdos in my life ;)

*Honorable Mention = Local Church on Mission: I took this as a two week mini in January (I really do LOVE me some mini-mesters!) and it ended up being one of my best decisions ever. This was definitely one of my favorite classes of all time and I learned SO MUCH during our two weeks together. Not to mention getting to learn so much about the missional church movement made me so proud of my church! I am beyond blessed to sit under the leadership of the Village staff and elders and I'm so grateful I get to serve and worship with the men and women there.


Well that about does it for Spring 2011... see ya in May! Just kidding. Hopefully I'll be able to post more once I settle in to a routine this semester. Hasta luego, amigos.

Soon

Yesterday morning marked another Celebration Sunday for my church, where we gather as a body for a time of testimonies, baptisms and worship. Now even though I love every Sunday at my church, I really love Celebration Sundays. There is just something so special about hearing how the Gospel is transforming the hearts of people and listening, firsthand, as people share how God rescued them from their unfulfilling, sinful lives. I imagine Heaven is like one big Celebration Sunday, where God's children freely rejoice in the glory and love of the Father that saw past our inequities and made us heirs to His throne. I can't even wrap my mind around it, all I know is that today I'm grateful, humbled and I'm celebrating life in Him. Continuing in that spirit of thankfulness, I wanted to share one of the songs we sang yesterday, it's called Soon by Hillsong United:

Soon and very soon
My King is coming
Robed in righteousness
And crowned with love
When I see Him, I shall be made like Him
Soon and very soon

Soon and very soon
I'll be going to the place He has prepared for me
Then my sin erased, my shame forgotten
Soon and very soon

I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon

Soon and very soon
See the procession
The angels and the elders round the throne
At His feet I'll lay
My crowns, my worship
Soon and very soon

I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon

Though I have not seen Him
My heart knows Him well
Jesus Christ the Lamb, the Lord of heaven

I will be with the One I love
With unveiled face I'll see Him
There my soul with be satisfied
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon
Soon and very soon

Friday Facts

10. Food always tastes better when it's free. Especially when it's free Chick-fil-A for breakfast. YUM.

9. Cooking a big meal can be therapeutic. It can also be nostalgic... hence the copious amounts of taco soup in my fridge/freezer right now.

8. I woke up this morning craving Garth Brooks like pregnant women crave pickles.

7. Cold weather is proving to be an inhibitor for all things school related. Let me explain, cold weather = warm blankets = zero productivity.

6. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.

5. I'm super excited about seeing the midnight showing of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows! But what I'm even more excited about is catching up with one of my favorite people in the world. I can't wait, Danica!

4. I've been camped out in Romans 8 the past few days and it has been SO good. "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified." Romans 8:29-10

3. I am beyond excited about Thanksgiving and Christmas break. It's time for some much needed quality time with my favorite people. And sweet potato casserole. But mostly the quality time.

2. The other day I bought a shirt that reminds me of Christmas. Every time I look at it I get warm-fuzzies. Also, I started listening to Christmas music last week. This is getting out of hand...

1. This is definitely worth a listen... but you have to listen to the whole thing to see why. Enjoy!

This Just In...

This afternoon, I officially got accepted into the Gary Cook School of Leadership at DBU! Can I get an AMEN?! This winter I'll start integrating grad courses with my remaining undergrad until I graduate with both degrees (Lord willin') in August of 2012. When I graduate I'll have an BA in Christian Studies with a minor in Sociology and a MA in Global Leadership*. Oh, and for the record, I am so excited to be starting this new chapter in my life (side note: I feel like everything is moving so fast that this might as well be a subheading. Or maybe a paragraph in my "college chapter". You know, something short and sweet).





* Yes, I realize that sounds made up. I promise it's a real degree. It focuses on equipping ministers to reach (and minister to) people on a global scale, beyond cultural/religious/racial barriers, etc.

The Gospel and Discipline

This week in KV we talked about the promise that God will discipline His children. Originally, I thought this would be a pretty straight forward lesson... right? Wrong. I didn't realize just how difficult it would be for the girls to grasp the concept of loving discipline. But as I asked them about the discipline they received from their earthly fathers it became clear why their vision was so skewed. So many of the girls that I teach are just flat out not disciplined. In fact, when I asked what they thought discipline means, I (literally) got the response "my Daddy never disciplines me because I'm his little princess!". Straight up. An 11 year old girl. She even did a little head-cocked-smile. Of course she's going to have a difficult time understanding why God's promise to discipline His children is a good thing! But Hebrews 12:7-11 says...

“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,
nor be weary when reproved by him.
For the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and chastises every son whom he receives.”

It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Though it's hard to communicate this to kids that have grown up in a world where their parents made excuses and looked the other way, it is so important for them to understand this because (once again) it points to the beauty of the Gospel! The reason we receive discipline and not wrath is because Christ absorbed that wrath on the Cross. The reason we can be counted as sons and daughters of the King is because He grants us grace to believe through the blood of His Son. And even in His discipline He is gracious, omniscient and holy.

This week, my prayer for my girls is that as they grow in their understanding of the Lord and His promises, they will know more fully the beauty of grace and the gift of discipline. I pray that they would see discipline as a necessary step in God's promise to make us look more like Jesus. And most importantly, I pray that their hearts would understand the beauty and the magnitude of the Gospel.