It's the day of the Living Nativity on the street. We (Parable) help a few other churches and a Christian dance company with a simple 'live' portrayal of Jesus, Mary and Joseph in the stable for Jesus' birth. People carol and we help hand out hot chocolate to by-passers. Last year it was really cold and windy, but we persevered. Today, we have rain/sleet to deal with. As the day progresses, we are praying for clearing weather or just plain snow flurries. It's a fun way to be involved in sharing Jesus in the street at Christmas time. So opposite of the glitz and glitter of Rockefeller Center and Macy's and Saks' windows, but just as beautiful in its simplicity and honest message. May many people be touched and encouraged to seek Jesus this season.
We have 2 teams in this week to do some gift wrapping on the street and to also serve at a few soup kitchens and senior centers in Midtown. These are returning groups and they are such an encouragement to me. I pray we are all blessed as we celebrate Jesus with all we encounter this week. Pray for dry weather!!
Parable Church will be moving out of the Space by the end of December (just a few weeks). It is just so costly to rent this big of a space, especially when those that we cater to have no money to put on their shows. With Broadway shows closing, smaller shows canceling plans, and the economy getting steadily worse through winter, we decided we need to cut our overhead. This will be a very busy few weeks of packing up, liquidating, etc.The411 will be back to take their equipment and supplies. Parable will wrap up here by 12/31.
Even though we are down-sizing and are a little sad about leaving the place that has been an inviting place of ministry, we are very excited about having the time and resources to concentrate solely on the church body and the people who are seeking God (whether they know that or not) and to work on the simple task of building a body of believers and seekers. It is refreshing to be unencumbered by the responsibilities of the space. We will instead meet someplace for worship and fellowship, meet for ministry and service opportunities at various places, and the staff will work from our homes for a while. Although this may not sound 'stable' for some parts of the country, it is very natural for NYC. We are excited about our future.
I know I say this a lot, but I'm so blessed to work with Parable Church. It is so refreshing and energizing and encouraging to spend time with sincere, dedicated believers and to share myself with seekers who just want to have a relationship with someone they feel they can trust to share Jesus. God grows me so much through every encounter and acquaintance. My walk with God has grown, deepened, been filled with more intensity and awareness. It's like seeing a black and white drawing grow into a beautiful colorful masterpiece. The colors and textures become more detailed. Music becomes more rich through different instruments and tones and harmonies. It's wonderful to experience. All this comes about not just from the 'good times' but from those 'difficult and emotionally hard times', too. I'm thankful for them all. This time of serving in NYC will always be a huge mile stone in my life and in my walk with God.
Well, I'd better get back to work. So much to do this week.
I do wish you beautiful moments to share with our Lord this week as we prepare to celebrate His coming and as you look forward to being with family and friends. Share the Light of Jesus with everyone!
Blessings!!!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Monday, December 8, 2008
December 8, 2008
Well, another month has went by so quickly!! It's the Christmas season and even though NYC is decorated as usual, you can really feel a sense of worry about the economy. People are out shopping, but buying little. And a lot of people are waiting till closer to Christmas to see if prices will go down further. It makes the giftwrapping teams a little anxious. But people are even more aware of our Free Giftwrapping services in Herald Square.
Speaking of the giftwrapping project, we have a team here from Branden Florida in this week. And, boy, is it cold!!!!! I hope the weather will hold out from precipitation while we're working. It's fun to be out on the streets among the many people.
I'm feeling much better. It will be a long road to getting my liver happy and healthy, but I'm being pretty disciplined while here. Now, being in Indiana with family over Thanksgiving was another story. While I didn't really eat anything considered 'bad' to normal people, I did eat too much 'normal' food and made myself sick. I'm getting over that and working on the 'Vickie rules' for food. Thank you for everyone praying for me to be disciplined. If you know me well at all, you know I'm not disciplined in much of anything!!! Please keep praying for me.
I spent Thanksgiving with my family for the second time in 18 years. It was restful, but way too quiet! My sis lives in the middle of 15 acres. It was beautiful and restful. I had technology withdrawals sometimes, though. Sporadic dial-up internet, no cable (akkk!), limited service on my cell phone, my blackberry phone went caput on the first day there and Verizon had to express me another one... But on the upside - deer in the yard one morning. (there's usually more, but it was still hunting season, so they were hiding deep in the woods). I also got to cook in a REAL kitchen! woohoo! I loved helping with Thanksgiving dinner (we actually had 2) and other meals. We baked cookies and shipped 10 boxes of goodies to soldiers in Afghanistan. Visited Walmart frequently, went with my sister to church twice, wedding planned/shopped with my niece, saw a movie with my sis, babysat my 2 year old great-nephew, played with his 4 year old brother. Saw some family and took a lot of naps. I couldn't believe how quickly 2 weeks went by.
You know how weird things are always happening to me, and how God uses unusual ways to get my attention. Well, one day I was at a Christian bookstore treating myself to a new compact Bible for my bag. While kneeling down looking through my choices on the bottom shelf, a regular size (softbound-thank you) Bible fell off a higher shelf and hit me right on the head! I still haven't figured out what God was telling me with that, except that maybe to remember that even though I wasn't around a lot of Christian friends and influence at the time, that HE was still around and able to help me 'feel' His presence!
I received a copy of the Christmas CD recorded by my home church, FBC Rogers. It is so awesome! Their concert was last night and my heart was there, even if my ears and the rest of my body wasn't. I love my home church and all the people there, especially those that share their talents and gifts for His glory!
We're chugging along here at Parable Church. We're stronger everyday as a body of Believers. It's a privilege to walk this path with people I never would have met if not for God's hand. Please keep Parable in your prayers as we go through the tough times of living in NYC. Shows are closing, people are losing jobs all over the place. Even small shifts in the economy can be major challenges here where everything costs so very much. People are looking for hope and reasons to feel joyful. It's the perfect time to share the one source of true joy with them. Pray we stay faithful and ready to speak and share.
I'll try to write more before Christmas. Until then, I pray you are all having a wonderfully reflective holiday season. Advent is such a wonderful time and I am striving to make it more of a focus for my December.
Blessings!
Speaking of the giftwrapping project, we have a team here from Branden Florida in this week. And, boy, is it cold!!!!! I hope the weather will hold out from precipitation while we're working. It's fun to be out on the streets among the many people.
I'm feeling much better. It will be a long road to getting my liver happy and healthy, but I'm being pretty disciplined while here. Now, being in Indiana with family over Thanksgiving was another story. While I didn't really eat anything considered 'bad' to normal people, I did eat too much 'normal' food and made myself sick. I'm getting over that and working on the 'Vickie rules' for food. Thank you for everyone praying for me to be disciplined. If you know me well at all, you know I'm not disciplined in much of anything!!! Please keep praying for me.
I spent Thanksgiving with my family for the second time in 18 years. It was restful, but way too quiet! My sis lives in the middle of 15 acres. It was beautiful and restful. I had technology withdrawals sometimes, though. Sporadic dial-up internet, no cable (akkk!), limited service on my cell phone, my blackberry phone went caput on the first day there and Verizon had to express me another one... But on the upside - deer in the yard one morning. (there's usually more, but it was still hunting season, so they were hiding deep in the woods). I also got to cook in a REAL kitchen! woohoo! I loved helping with Thanksgiving dinner (we actually had 2) and other meals. We baked cookies and shipped 10 boxes of goodies to soldiers in Afghanistan. Visited Walmart frequently, went with my sister to church twice, wedding planned/shopped with my niece, saw a movie with my sis, babysat my 2 year old great-nephew, played with his 4 year old brother. Saw some family and took a lot of naps. I couldn't believe how quickly 2 weeks went by.
You know how weird things are always happening to me, and how God uses unusual ways to get my attention. Well, one day I was at a Christian bookstore treating myself to a new compact Bible for my bag. While kneeling down looking through my choices on the bottom shelf, a regular size (softbound-thank you) Bible fell off a higher shelf and hit me right on the head! I still haven't figured out what God was telling me with that, except that maybe to remember that even though I wasn't around a lot of Christian friends and influence at the time, that HE was still around and able to help me 'feel' His presence!
I received a copy of the Christmas CD recorded by my home church, FBC Rogers. It is so awesome! Their concert was last night and my heart was there, even if my ears and the rest of my body wasn't. I love my home church and all the people there, especially those that share their talents and gifts for His glory!
We're chugging along here at Parable Church. We're stronger everyday as a body of Believers. It's a privilege to walk this path with people I never would have met if not for God's hand. Please keep Parable in your prayers as we go through the tough times of living in NYC. Shows are closing, people are losing jobs all over the place. Even small shifts in the economy can be major challenges here where everything costs so very much. People are looking for hope and reasons to feel joyful. It's the perfect time to share the one source of true joy with them. Pray we stay faithful and ready to speak and share.
I'll try to write more before Christmas. Until then, I pray you are all having a wonderfully reflective holiday season. Advent is such a wonderful time and I am striving to make it more of a focus for my December.
Blessings!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
November 6, 2008
Weeks seem to chug along and I can't believe how fast time flies by. When I see or experience things that seem interesting, I think I will remember it to add to this blog. Of course, by the time I write, I have forgotten most of the things. This will probably be a rambling post, but choose for yourself whether you want to keep reading...
One day last week I was feeling really sick, but needed to go to the Space for a staff meeting. It's not always easy to get all the staff together at the same time and with so much going on at Parable right now, missing the meeting was not an option. Getting from place to place in the city is sometimes not much fun even when you feel good. I made it in to the office and sat down. The guys decided I didn't look well and suggested I go home. Well, that didn't set well with me, since I had spent so much energy getting my nauseous self there! Mike and I stepped over to our favorite health food diner to grab something healthy and hot for my tummy. Then we had our meeting. We accomplished much in the meeting. However, since I didn't feel well, I ended up being weepy (I'm such a girl sometimes). Of course, the guys don't freak out over female tears. We are in NYC after all where people just get tough. Besides they know that I'm really not fragile. So we completed our meeting and they decided I should take some time off to get better. I agreed to continue taking it easy and concentrating on getting well.
I was getting phone calls from my sister that day letting me know that my Mom was in the hospital for what turned out to be just an overnight stay. She was calling, my phone kept dropping the calls, it was rainy and cold, I felt like crap... As I was going to meet my bus, I pulled out my little umbrella that I carry in my bag. The wind here gets strong and makes umbrellas useless some times. This was the case at that moment. I'm fighting the wind and my umbrella, which turns inside out and 2 of the spines break. So I fix it best I can and keep walking to the bus. Half of me is fairly dry from part of the umbrella that still looks like an umbrella. The other side of me is getting wet as that half of the umbrella is not only broken, but is slapping me up side the head as I'm walking. Needless to say, the umbrella got tossed into the next trashcan. But at that moment I really felt the enemy trying to do everything possible to make me miserable. It was one of those times when you just want to laugh because it is so ridiculous. No matter how wet, sick or irritated I was at that time, I decided to praise God for letting me being His no matter what was thrown my way. I think I will remember that silly umbrella beating my head when ever I have a frustrating moment and I hope it makes me laugh as it did much later. Just felt like sharing that story...
I'm now feeling well enough to begin walking to the Space again and to get out more. I really missed walking the streets of this city. I walk past hundreds of people every day that I do not know and will probably never meet. It starts feeling like people are just like the buildings - many around and you just walk past them. It makes me more appreciative of the people that I do meet and start seeing on a continuing basis. Kenneth (my guard friend at Lincoln Center) asked where I've been. He missed seeing me in the mornings. We've been teasing about going to the beach now that the weather is colder. He's from Jamaica and likes warm weather. If I walk by his post and he's not near the sidewalk, he'll yell 'hello' and I look around till I find him. The other day I walked by and another guard was at his post. I heard a 'hello' as I passed a parked car and it was Kenneth inside taking a break and eating a snack. He made sure I heard him so that he could greet me. That made me smile.
I know most of the maintenance and support staff in our building at the Space. I really appreciate the jobs they do. It's nice to learn their names and greet each other and find out where they are from and different things about them. I love hearing everyone's stories. And I'm thankful for the opportunity to share my story with them. The story of how God brought me to NYC.
I'm feeling a little better and starting down the long road of getting healthy once and for all. No more taking health and strength for granted. No more abusing this body, which is a gift to me from God to use while on this earth. I'm going after physical, spiritual and emotional health. The whole package. And I know I can't do it without God. I'm not strong enough to be that disciplined. But this is another way that I can trust Him and honor Him and give Him the glory for what He accomplishes in my life. So please, keep me in your prayers!
Concentrating on eating healthy, organic, unprocessed foods makes me think about how much I want my relationships to be healthy, honest, trusting and uncomplicated by worldly perspectives. I want all parts of my life to be healthy and just the way that God intends it to be.
I promise to try harder to share more stories about my walk with Christ in NYC.
One day last week I was feeling really sick, but needed to go to the Space for a staff meeting. It's not always easy to get all the staff together at the same time and with so much going on at Parable right now, missing the meeting was not an option. Getting from place to place in the city is sometimes not much fun even when you feel good. I made it in to the office and sat down. The guys decided I didn't look well and suggested I go home. Well, that didn't set well with me, since I had spent so much energy getting my nauseous self there! Mike and I stepped over to our favorite health food diner to grab something healthy and hot for my tummy. Then we had our meeting. We accomplished much in the meeting. However, since I didn't feel well, I ended up being weepy (I'm such a girl sometimes). Of course, the guys don't freak out over female tears. We are in NYC after all where people just get tough. Besides they know that I'm really not fragile. So we completed our meeting and they decided I should take some time off to get better. I agreed to continue taking it easy and concentrating on getting well.
I was getting phone calls from my sister that day letting me know that my Mom was in the hospital for what turned out to be just an overnight stay. She was calling, my phone kept dropping the calls, it was rainy and cold, I felt like crap... As I was going to meet my bus, I pulled out my little umbrella that I carry in my bag. The wind here gets strong and makes umbrellas useless some times. This was the case at that moment. I'm fighting the wind and my umbrella, which turns inside out and 2 of the spines break. So I fix it best I can and keep walking to the bus. Half of me is fairly dry from part of the umbrella that still looks like an umbrella. The other side of me is getting wet as that half of the umbrella is not only broken, but is slapping me up side the head as I'm walking. Needless to say, the umbrella got tossed into the next trashcan. But at that moment I really felt the enemy trying to do everything possible to make me miserable. It was one of those times when you just want to laugh because it is so ridiculous. No matter how wet, sick or irritated I was at that time, I decided to praise God for letting me being His no matter what was thrown my way. I think I will remember that silly umbrella beating my head when ever I have a frustrating moment and I hope it makes me laugh as it did much later. Just felt like sharing that story...
I'm now feeling well enough to begin walking to the Space again and to get out more. I really missed walking the streets of this city. I walk past hundreds of people every day that I do not know and will probably never meet. It starts feeling like people are just like the buildings - many around and you just walk past them. It makes me more appreciative of the people that I do meet and start seeing on a continuing basis. Kenneth (my guard friend at Lincoln Center) asked where I've been. He missed seeing me in the mornings. We've been teasing about going to the beach now that the weather is colder. He's from Jamaica and likes warm weather. If I walk by his post and he's not near the sidewalk, he'll yell 'hello' and I look around till I find him. The other day I walked by and another guard was at his post. I heard a 'hello' as I passed a parked car and it was Kenneth inside taking a break and eating a snack. He made sure I heard him so that he could greet me. That made me smile.
I know most of the maintenance and support staff in our building at the Space. I really appreciate the jobs they do. It's nice to learn their names and greet each other and find out where they are from and different things about them. I love hearing everyone's stories. And I'm thankful for the opportunity to share my story with them. The story of how God brought me to NYC.
I'm feeling a little better and starting down the long road of getting healthy once and for all. No more taking health and strength for granted. No more abusing this body, which is a gift to me from God to use while on this earth. I'm going after physical, spiritual and emotional health. The whole package. And I know I can't do it without God. I'm not strong enough to be that disciplined. But this is another way that I can trust Him and honor Him and give Him the glory for what He accomplishes in my life. So please, keep me in your prayers!
Concentrating on eating healthy, organic, unprocessed foods makes me think about how much I want my relationships to be healthy, honest, trusting and uncomplicated by worldly perspectives. I want all parts of my life to be healthy and just the way that God intends it to be.
I promise to try harder to share more stories about my walk with Christ in NYC.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
October 25, 2008
It's October 25th. Can you believe it? Just a month till Thanksgiving and just 2 months till Christmas!!! Time marches on.
We have a new addition to our Parable Church family. Colton John Mihelich arrived on Monday. Everyone is doing well. I can't wait to hold that wonderful bundle of blessing.
Erin is still battling her migraine headache. It's been going on way too long. Much prayer is needed for her comfort and for the medical team to figure this all out.
I'm still on my journey of stomach problems. It's been very interesting. There was a mix up with my test results it had my Doctor thinking that I had tumors on body parts that I don't have any longer. It was a wild 24 hours until it all got sorted out, but I knew God was in control of it all and I was ready to follow the journey wherever God took me. After studying the reports, it was clear that the cancer belonged to another woman and that my results were not as scary. The main thing to remember is that God is in control and the only real truth about anything, health included, is what He says.
So far we know that my colon is good and other organs seem happy. With the exception of my liver. It's not in very good shape at the moment. I am getting quite the education on how the liver works and what is and is not good for it. It amazes me how complex God has made our bodies and how He knows every cell in them. I definitely need to make some dietary changes to heal my liver. Basically, I will be cutting out most of the foods that I love. Thankfully, I like the foods that I get to keep eating, so it won't be too bad. Goodbye to red meat, pork, dairy and eggs. I will eat more fresh chicken and fish, fresh veggies and fruit, whole grains and nuts. All organic, of course. I love milk and meat, so giving them up will be really hard. I tried soy milk today for the first time. I'm not a fan. But I will just use it on cereal and to cook with. I don't think I'll be chugging glasses of it like I did 'real' milk. I'll just stick to water and juices. There are more adjustments to make, but I'll take it as it comes and try to learn to live healthy in baby steps. Hopefully, by Christmas I will see a real difference in my liver. Getting through Thanksgiving will be interesting, though. I'll be trying lots of new recipes and experimenting with foods. This will be interesting in my teeny kitchen. But, hey, people survive all over the world with less!
I want to share something I wrote in an email not long ago. It helps me to remember God's lessons for me...
This week I'm celebrating the uniqueness of how God has created every person. The fact that He has plans for every life and that every person is just as important to Him as the next intrigues me. We impose so much assessment and judgment upon others based on our path and forget that their path is unique to them, and most importantly, ordained by the Father. A lot of our frustration and unhappiness is a result of people not meeting our expectations. That's what needs assessment and examination - our expectations. Are they aligned with HIS perceptions? I have to ask myself this question all the time. I feel like the unsettling, frustrating, disgruntled, etc feelings are His guides to keep me on the right path. Kind of like guardrails along the highway. If you waiver and bump into them it's not usually pleasant (and if you are going too fast, it can be painful). But they keep me from going off of the road to where He is sending me (and from speeding ahead of Him). Other people are on these paths and I shouldn't expect them to drive the way I want them to, they have to deal with the guardrails in their own journey with Him. I want to travel with them and not cause road rage!
Okay, I don't know where that analogy about driving came from. I haven't even owned a car in the last 18 months! The traffic and commuting in NYC is another story! Subways are mostly about getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible( and hoping you find a line and station that is nearby to where you are going). Buses are slower and the routes are not as direct sometimes, but you get to look out the window and actually See the journey as you are on it. And my favorite is walking, which allows for Participating in the journey. (I know, I'm spending way too much time alone and in reflection these days!)
I'm really missing my friends back at my home church in Rogers AR. I like keeping up with some of them on Facebook. If you have facebook, please add me as your friend. I want to keep in touch with as many people as possible. And don't forget to email me at vickiejocline@yahoo.com.
Time for a snack of nuts and berries! Until next time... Blessings!
We have a new addition to our Parable Church family. Colton John Mihelich arrived on Monday. Everyone is doing well. I can't wait to hold that wonderful bundle of blessing.
Erin is still battling her migraine headache. It's been going on way too long. Much prayer is needed for her comfort and for the medical team to figure this all out.
I'm still on my journey of stomach problems. It's been very interesting. There was a mix up with my test results it had my Doctor thinking that I had tumors on body parts that I don't have any longer. It was a wild 24 hours until it all got sorted out, but I knew God was in control of it all and I was ready to follow the journey wherever God took me. After studying the reports, it was clear that the cancer belonged to another woman and that my results were not as scary. The main thing to remember is that God is in control and the only real truth about anything, health included, is what He says.
So far we know that my colon is good and other organs seem happy. With the exception of my liver. It's not in very good shape at the moment. I am getting quite the education on how the liver works and what is and is not good for it. It amazes me how complex God has made our bodies and how He knows every cell in them. I definitely need to make some dietary changes to heal my liver. Basically, I will be cutting out most of the foods that I love. Thankfully, I like the foods that I get to keep eating, so it won't be too bad. Goodbye to red meat, pork, dairy and eggs. I will eat more fresh chicken and fish, fresh veggies and fruit, whole grains and nuts. All organic, of course. I love milk and meat, so giving them up will be really hard. I tried soy milk today for the first time. I'm not a fan. But I will just use it on cereal and to cook with. I don't think I'll be chugging glasses of it like I did 'real' milk. I'll just stick to water and juices. There are more adjustments to make, but I'll take it as it comes and try to learn to live healthy in baby steps. Hopefully, by Christmas I will see a real difference in my liver. Getting through Thanksgiving will be interesting, though. I'll be trying lots of new recipes and experimenting with foods. This will be interesting in my teeny kitchen. But, hey, people survive all over the world with less!
I want to share something I wrote in an email not long ago. It helps me to remember God's lessons for me...
This week I'm celebrating the uniqueness of how God has created every person. The fact that He has plans for every life and that every person is just as important to Him as the next intrigues me. We impose so much assessment and judgment upon others based on our path and forget that their path is unique to them, and most importantly, ordained by the Father. A lot of our frustration and unhappiness is a result of people not meeting our expectations. That's what needs assessment and examination - our expectations. Are they aligned with HIS perceptions? I have to ask myself this question all the time. I feel like the unsettling, frustrating, disgruntled, etc feelings are His guides to keep me on the right path. Kind of like guardrails along the highway. If you waiver and bump into them it's not usually pleasant (and if you are going too fast, it can be painful). But they keep me from going off of the road to where He is sending me (and from speeding ahead of Him). Other people are on these paths and I shouldn't expect them to drive the way I want them to, they have to deal with the guardrails in their own journey with Him. I want to travel with them and not cause road rage!
Okay, I don't know where that analogy about driving came from. I haven't even owned a car in the last 18 months! The traffic and commuting in NYC is another story! Subways are mostly about getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible( and hoping you find a line and station that is nearby to where you are going). Buses are slower and the routes are not as direct sometimes, but you get to look out the window and actually See the journey as you are on it. And my favorite is walking, which allows for Participating in the journey. (I know, I'm spending way too much time alone and in reflection these days!)
I'm really missing my friends back at my home church in Rogers AR. I like keeping up with some of them on Facebook. If you have facebook, please add me as your friend. I want to keep in touch with as many people as possible. And don't forget to email me at vickiejocline@yahoo.com.
Time for a snack of nuts and berries! Until next time... Blessings!
Friday, October 10, 2008
October 10, 2008
Wow, I didn't realize how long it has been since I've posted here. The whole month of September has gone by. And as usual, there are many praises and prayer requests and opportunities to share Jesus.
The Space is really hopping these days with shows, rehearsals, classes, and people in and out all the time. John and Frank have been very busy keeping up with everything. Lots of new contacts and networking going on...
I've been working from home more (where it's relatively more quiet) and have more time to connect with people one-on-one. Being able to be productive from home has really been helpful since I have not felt well for the last 4 weeks or so. God will always make a way for His work to be accomplished.
I enjoyed a nice visit with a 'partnership' Pastor that I respect very much. It was good to share about the new, simpler, more God-focused mission for Parable. It is very encouraging to me to have these conversations with people who want to help Parable share the true love of God with the people of NYC. Thanks Bill.
There aren't many days at Parable that I would call 'normal' (what is normal, anyway?) But these last weeks have been full of challenges. Pastor Mike has been through a whirlwind with the sudden illness of his mother, who was admitted into the hospital with migraine headaches and ended up with brain surgery to remove a tumor. Within weeks, she was welcomed into God's loving arms. Mike spent most everyday at her side at the hospital in PA, with just a few days to whip back to NYC (1 1/2 hour drive) to get clothes and such. While sitting with his mother in one hospital, across town, his sister-in-law (wife of the brother who went to Heaven this past spring) gave birth to Mike's first niece. He posted pictures of Uncle Mike holding this precious gift. We all missed Mike at Parable services during this time, but he was very much with us via email, text, phone calls and God's grace.
Erin, who is one of the strongest young ladies I know, has been stricken with debilitating migraines. She suffers with these occasionally, but currently is on her third week of a doozie. The meds have their own issues of side effects to deal with. Things like this reminds us of just how complex and miraculous our bodies are made and how we should not take for granted being able to live in good health. Please keep Erin in your prayers.
Frank and Allie are expecting their baby any day now. We are all so excited! We haven't had a baby in the congregation for a while. (we have grown to 4 married couples now though!) The sex of the baby is going to be a surprise to everyone, including Mom and Dad. That just seems to add to the wonder of the power of God to create life and surprise us with it. I can't wait to hold that baby!!
I have had my own health issues lately. For weeks I have had some stomach issues. The most bothersome is nausea and a pain in my side. Being on a really bland diet has helped the pain diminish to a dull ache. I have had multiple tests, (blood tests, 2 ultra sounds, cat scan, endoscopy, colonoscopy) and other poking around. The good news is that I had a good report from the colonoscopy (only 1 small pollop that was easily removed) and the spot on my liver was confirmed as an hemangioma (kind of a birthmark on the liver - no problem at all). I still have nausea and a dull ache, but hopefully I'll find out some good news when I see the doctor next Wednesday to talk about the results of all the tests. The consensus is that it may still be my gall bladder acting up. Unfortunately, the gall bladder can be sneaky. (I think the 'pain in Paul's side' was actually his gall bladder...) The praises from all of this are: I now have 2 new doctors here in NYC that I really like (I was putting off looking for a Dr here because I figured it would be such a huge, unsatisfying ordeal), I had a great report from the colonoscopy (good to know since my Mom has major colon and abdominal problems), my innards seem to be chugging along fine (thanks to the ultrasounds and cat scan), I got to meet some interesting people in all the waiting rooms and also the medical staff, I have gotten a lot of rest (although I also have gotten room fever aka cabin fever), I've saved money on groceries (which will be made up by paying medical bills), and I'm loosing weight (which I need to do badly anyway).
I've really enjoyed reading some books that have spoken to me deeply about my walk with God. If you get the chance to read, check out these: "The Shack" by Young, "Margin" by Swenson, "One Month to Live" by Shook, "Cross Culture Conflict" and Cross Cultural Servanthood" by Duane Elmer. There are other books on my list to get to, but these have been interesting to me lately. More and more God is making it clear that our focus is to be on having a relationship with Him. That is an on-going relationship where we talk to Him everyday and seek His guidance and listen to Him. And to share that relationship with other people. To talk to them about our lives as we interact with God. To love people on the most basic level. It all sounds so simple, but we miss the mark when we start adding modern bells and whistles to this simple witness technique of just opening up to another person. I love it that God asks us to just be simple, just love, just care, just share...
I was blessed by my conversation with the landlord of my building. I asked God to give me discernment in determining if I am to stay and how much longer. A lot of it is dependent on the amount of the rate hike and if they would allow me to sign a 6 month lease. Well, God made it so obvious, that I almost heard Him say 'duh - is this clear enough for you?'. There was no problem with the 6 month lease and the rent hike was only $39 (it was $100 last year). So I'm here in NYC for at least the next 6 months. That will put me here 2 years in May. It's up to God to determine where and for how long I serve. I am totally comfortable leaving that decision up to Him. With the economy being as crazy as it is now, God will show His grace in blessing my supporters so that they can continue to be a part of this ministry by financially supporting me here. I am sooo thankful for those supporters.
Well, I can't think of anything else to share for this moment, so I'll sign off for now. I just want to thank everyone for their support of prayers, money, care packages and love. I am so privileged to by serving here at this time. I wish I could find the words to let everyone know how much they mean to me. I leave that up to God to fill your heart to show you and bless you.
Watch for the blessings that come (sometimes subtly) from being a child of the King.
Blessings!
The Space is really hopping these days with shows, rehearsals, classes, and people in and out all the time. John and Frank have been very busy keeping up with everything. Lots of new contacts and networking going on...
I've been working from home more (where it's relatively more quiet) and have more time to connect with people one-on-one. Being able to be productive from home has really been helpful since I have not felt well for the last 4 weeks or so. God will always make a way for His work to be accomplished.
I enjoyed a nice visit with a 'partnership' Pastor that I respect very much. It was good to share about the new, simpler, more God-focused mission for Parable. It is very encouraging to me to have these conversations with people who want to help Parable share the true love of God with the people of NYC. Thanks Bill.
There aren't many days at Parable that I would call 'normal' (what is normal, anyway?) But these last weeks have been full of challenges. Pastor Mike has been through a whirlwind with the sudden illness of his mother, who was admitted into the hospital with migraine headaches and ended up with brain surgery to remove a tumor. Within weeks, she was welcomed into God's loving arms. Mike spent most everyday at her side at the hospital in PA, with just a few days to whip back to NYC (1 1/2 hour drive) to get clothes and such. While sitting with his mother in one hospital, across town, his sister-in-law (wife of the brother who went to Heaven this past spring) gave birth to Mike's first niece. He posted pictures of Uncle Mike holding this precious gift. We all missed Mike at Parable services during this time, but he was very much with us via email, text, phone calls and God's grace.
Erin, who is one of the strongest young ladies I know, has been stricken with debilitating migraines. She suffers with these occasionally, but currently is on her third week of a doozie. The meds have their own issues of side effects to deal with. Things like this reminds us of just how complex and miraculous our bodies are made and how we should not take for granted being able to live in good health. Please keep Erin in your prayers.
Frank and Allie are expecting their baby any day now. We are all so excited! We haven't had a baby in the congregation for a while. (we have grown to 4 married couples now though!) The sex of the baby is going to be a surprise to everyone, including Mom and Dad. That just seems to add to the wonder of the power of God to create life and surprise us with it. I can't wait to hold that baby!!
I have had my own health issues lately. For weeks I have had some stomach issues. The most bothersome is nausea and a pain in my side. Being on a really bland diet has helped the pain diminish to a dull ache. I have had multiple tests, (blood tests, 2 ultra sounds, cat scan, endoscopy, colonoscopy) and other poking around. The good news is that I had a good report from the colonoscopy (only 1 small pollop that was easily removed) and the spot on my liver was confirmed as an hemangioma (kind of a birthmark on the liver - no problem at all). I still have nausea and a dull ache, but hopefully I'll find out some good news when I see the doctor next Wednesday to talk about the results of all the tests. The consensus is that it may still be my gall bladder acting up. Unfortunately, the gall bladder can be sneaky. (I think the 'pain in Paul's side' was actually his gall bladder...) The praises from all of this are: I now have 2 new doctors here in NYC that I really like (I was putting off looking for a Dr here because I figured it would be such a huge, unsatisfying ordeal), I had a great report from the colonoscopy (good to know since my Mom has major colon and abdominal problems), my innards seem to be chugging along fine (thanks to the ultrasounds and cat scan), I got to meet some interesting people in all the waiting rooms and also the medical staff, I have gotten a lot of rest (although I also have gotten room fever aka cabin fever), I've saved money on groceries (which will be made up by paying medical bills), and I'm loosing weight (which I need to do badly anyway).
I've really enjoyed reading some books that have spoken to me deeply about my walk with God. If you get the chance to read, check out these: "The Shack" by Young, "Margin" by Swenson, "One Month to Live" by Shook, "Cross Culture Conflict" and Cross Cultural Servanthood" by Duane Elmer. There are other books on my list to get to, but these have been interesting to me lately. More and more God is making it clear that our focus is to be on having a relationship with Him. That is an on-going relationship where we talk to Him everyday and seek His guidance and listen to Him. And to share that relationship with other people. To talk to them about our lives as we interact with God. To love people on the most basic level. It all sounds so simple, but we miss the mark when we start adding modern bells and whistles to this simple witness technique of just opening up to another person. I love it that God asks us to just be simple, just love, just care, just share...
I was blessed by my conversation with the landlord of my building. I asked God to give me discernment in determining if I am to stay and how much longer. A lot of it is dependent on the amount of the rate hike and if they would allow me to sign a 6 month lease. Well, God made it so obvious, that I almost heard Him say 'duh - is this clear enough for you?'. There was no problem with the 6 month lease and the rent hike was only $39 (it was $100 last year). So I'm here in NYC for at least the next 6 months. That will put me here 2 years in May. It's up to God to determine where and for how long I serve. I am totally comfortable leaving that decision up to Him. With the economy being as crazy as it is now, God will show His grace in blessing my supporters so that they can continue to be a part of this ministry by financially supporting me here. I am sooo thankful for those supporters.
Well, I can't think of anything else to share for this moment, so I'll sign off for now. I just want to thank everyone for their support of prayers, money, care packages and love. I am so privileged to by serving here at this time. I wish I could find the words to let everyone know how much they mean to me. I leave that up to God to fill your heart to show you and bless you.
Watch for the blessings that come (sometimes subtly) from being a child of the King.
Blessings!
Friday, August 29, 2008
August 29, 2008
It's Friday of Labor Day weekend. Ahhhh.....
This turned out to be one of my days off this week since I had to be home to welcome the cable guy (they actually came during the 'appointment window' they promised - even in NYC!!!) My cable converter box was possessed this week. It kept turning itself off and trying to reboot every few minutes. I pushed the power button to turn it off and that didn't work, it was still turning itself on and off and trying to reboot. I finally had to unplug it from the wall!
As frustrating as that was, it reminded me of how pesky the enemy can be in distracting me with seemingly small glitches. Like that cable box, sometimes we have to 'un-attach' ourselves from the power source of evil. Anything that is not of God in our lives is a way for the enemy to sneak into our minds and hearts. Even distant relationships with people not walking in God's light need to be evaluated. It may seem harmless, but it's an open door. Sometimes it only takes a crack for evil to sneak in. I'm glad the cable guy could fix my problem with the dysfunctional converter box. I'm even more glad that God is always standing by to change out my wants and thoughts and anything else that is not of Him, and to give me a clear connection to His input!
I finished reading a book last week titled "One Month to Live" and it was really enlightening to me. It is one of the few books I have ever really highlighted in as I was reading (at least one that wasn't part of a study or something). Anyway, I was expecting it to just be a reminder to get my life in order by doing things like putting God first, loving people more, de-cluttering my life, etc. The book is a very easy read and is basic in the way it presents ideas. It really gave me so much more than I expected. I recommend this book highly to Everyone. I found its insights on relationships, how I handle problems, how to stay connected to God better, how to serve people more effectively and how to live a bolder life in His name. I'll probably re-read it many times. I pray for everyone to give their life to God so that they can live as boldly as they are created to be for His purpose.
Isn't technology wonderful? (I say that half sarcastically) I have drug my feet in many ways when it comes to getting too involved with technology. I guess I'm afraid it will take the place of one-on-one human contact or something. But I have to say that being able to share with so many people at once through blogs, email and even facebook, has made it easier on me than I imagined.
This week I was blessed to receive a new phone. One of my dear church partners offered to supply this for me. My old cell was having to be charged twice a day. That is aggravating enough in itself, but here where you are in 'transit' more than you are near a computer, or even available electrical outlets, it can be debilitating at times! My new blessing is a Blackberry Curve phone (now on sale for only $99) on which I can not only handle phone calls (with a longer life battery than my old phone), but I can receive emails right to my phone. I always thought that the email thing was a little over the top for a cell phone, but I cannot believe how much it has helped me in staying connected while commuting around the city. I'm very thankful for the gift and for how much of a help it is for my work here in NYC.
Don't forget that you can always reach me via cell phone, and my two email addresses. You can check up on me and the Parable ministry at this blog, Parablechurch.com and parablemission.blogspot.com. And don't ever hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns about the ministry God has brought me to here in NYC.
Someone sent me a little story/poem kind of thing that asks the question what if we treated our Bibles as we do our cell phones. I have seen this before, but it is really a good reminder to seek being connected to God and His Word as much as we try to be connected to each other and the world. As handy as a cell phone is, God is always on the line, quicker to answer, and there's never a busy signal! (I know, that's cheesy!)
I pray you all have a wonderful holiday weekend. Summer is almost over. I love fall, but am anxious about the bleakness that sometimes comes with winter. Last winter was especially challenging for me and I didn't even realize how 'gray' I felt until spring was here and it was like a huge blanket coming off. I know this winter will be much better because a lot of the oppressive things from last year are gone, but I do need your prayers to keep me lifted up through the 'gray' days.
The seasons go by so fast, as do the seasons in our lives. I'm striving to make my life simpler so that I can enjoy the walk with my God and experience all He has planned for my days. Thinking about fall weather coming in about a month, I'm picturing myself walking through Central Park with thousands of leaves bursting in color and just strolling along talking with God. I promise to send you pictures of the leaves. (You'll have to look at God for yourselves)
Thank you for your faithful love and prayers and support as I live and serve here with Parable in NYC. Blessings!!!
This turned out to be one of my days off this week since I had to be home to welcome the cable guy (they actually came during the 'appointment window' they promised - even in NYC!!!) My cable converter box was possessed this week. It kept turning itself off and trying to reboot every few minutes. I pushed the power button to turn it off and that didn't work, it was still turning itself on and off and trying to reboot. I finally had to unplug it from the wall!
As frustrating as that was, it reminded me of how pesky the enemy can be in distracting me with seemingly small glitches. Like that cable box, sometimes we have to 'un-attach' ourselves from the power source of evil. Anything that is not of God in our lives is a way for the enemy to sneak into our minds and hearts. Even distant relationships with people not walking in God's light need to be evaluated. It may seem harmless, but it's an open door. Sometimes it only takes a crack for evil to sneak in. I'm glad the cable guy could fix my problem with the dysfunctional converter box. I'm even more glad that God is always standing by to change out my wants and thoughts and anything else that is not of Him, and to give me a clear connection to His input!
I finished reading a book last week titled "One Month to Live" and it was really enlightening to me. It is one of the few books I have ever really highlighted in as I was reading (at least one that wasn't part of a study or something). Anyway, I was expecting it to just be a reminder to get my life in order by doing things like putting God first, loving people more, de-cluttering my life, etc. The book is a very easy read and is basic in the way it presents ideas. It really gave me so much more than I expected. I recommend this book highly to Everyone. I found its insights on relationships, how I handle problems, how to stay connected to God better, how to serve people more effectively and how to live a bolder life in His name. I'll probably re-read it many times. I pray for everyone to give their life to God so that they can live as boldly as they are created to be for His purpose.
Isn't technology wonderful? (I say that half sarcastically) I have drug my feet in many ways when it comes to getting too involved with technology. I guess I'm afraid it will take the place of one-on-one human contact or something. But I have to say that being able to share with so many people at once through blogs, email and even facebook, has made it easier on me than I imagined.
This week I was blessed to receive a new phone. One of my dear church partners offered to supply this for me. My old cell was having to be charged twice a day. That is aggravating enough in itself, but here where you are in 'transit' more than you are near a computer, or even available electrical outlets, it can be debilitating at times! My new blessing is a Blackberry Curve phone (now on sale for only $99) on which I can not only handle phone calls (with a longer life battery than my old phone), but I can receive emails right to my phone. I always thought that the email thing was a little over the top for a cell phone, but I cannot believe how much it has helped me in staying connected while commuting around the city. I'm very thankful for the gift and for how much of a help it is for my work here in NYC.
Don't forget that you can always reach me via cell phone, and my two email addresses. You can check up on me and the Parable ministry at this blog, Parablechurch.com and parablemission.blogspot.com. And don't ever hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns about the ministry God has brought me to here in NYC.
Someone sent me a little story/poem kind of thing that asks the question what if we treated our Bibles as we do our cell phones. I have seen this before, but it is really a good reminder to seek being connected to God and His Word as much as we try to be connected to each other and the world. As handy as a cell phone is, God is always on the line, quicker to answer, and there's never a busy signal! (I know, that's cheesy!)
I pray you all have a wonderful holiday weekend. Summer is almost over. I love fall, but am anxious about the bleakness that sometimes comes with winter. Last winter was especially challenging for me and I didn't even realize how 'gray' I felt until spring was here and it was like a huge blanket coming off. I know this winter will be much better because a lot of the oppressive things from last year are gone, but I do need your prayers to keep me lifted up through the 'gray' days.
The seasons go by so fast, as do the seasons in our lives. I'm striving to make my life simpler so that I can enjoy the walk with my God and experience all He has planned for my days. Thinking about fall weather coming in about a month, I'm picturing myself walking through Central Park with thousands of leaves bursting in color and just strolling along talking with God. I promise to send you pictures of the leaves. (You'll have to look at God for yourselves)
Thank you for your faithful love and prayers and support as I live and serve here with Parable in NYC. Blessings!!!
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