"Left my fear by the side of the road.........All I need is you Lord, is you Lord. All I need is you..."
I can't remember all of the words, but I heard this song the other day while I was riding with a friend. For many reasons it came to my mind as I was just thinking about what to write.
The summer went just as fast as it came. August flew by, and here it is September, and before you know it people will be putting out Christmas lights in November ;)
I celebrated my 23rd birthday last month. I missed my parents probably more that day, than any other time I've been here. I don't remember what all I did that day (probably not much since it was a Monday.) but I remember feeling that even though I was away from my parents, my brothers, and the rest of my family I was still surrounded by people who cared about my.
Learning is something that seems to never cease, which is encouraging. Earlier this month I received a card in the mail from a lady who attended the church where I worked. She included a simple magnetic puzzle. It wasn't big, it wasn't expensive, nothing flashy, but I knew it took her time. One thing I have realized is that you'll know how much someone cares by the amount of time they're willing to sacrifice. It's easy to give money when you have it (No, I'm not saying I don't need financial support. I do now more than ever.) but something as simple as a letter with a puzzle in it meant the world to me that day. This lady might have thought it was just simple and that I wouldn't think much of it and it was just a nice gesture. NOT TRUE!
We don't realize how much small things we do mean to other people. How rare it is that people stop to say "hello" and actually care about how you're doing. How unusual it is for a stranger to make eye contact and smile, even when their world could be falling apart. None of us know what is going through everybody else's minds, but most of us have been there ourselves. Feeling alone, needing someone to listen for just a few minutes, completely calm on the outside like we really have it together yet crying out at the top of our lungs on the inside.
As the song says, "all I need is you Lord..." Things have been trying and difficult lately, but "all I need is you Lord." I have seen more blessings in the last three or four weeks than I have the entire time I have been in Houston. What's different? When you're at the bottom, you have nowhere else to look so you actually notice the blessings instead of taking them for granted.
I know this blog is supposed to be about my activities here in Houston, and what God is doing. This is what God is doing. Breaking me in areas I don't like, growing me in ways I never thought I would see, and opening my eyes to the world that is hurting all around me. All longing for this Jesus who gives life, who IS life.
*Please continue to pray and give faithfully as you have, and pass the info along to anyone else who might be interested.
**Coming soon-monthly newsletter that will either be emailed, or mailed depending on your preference, that will keep you informed and hopefully involved in the ministry here.**
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
SUMMER....thus far
Thanks to everyone who follows my blog. It means so much to me that you keep up with what is going on in the ministry here, and that you pray for me. Summer has been CRAZY! It has been so good!! We have so much help here because of our summer missionaries from all across the U.S. We have a few from Georgia, one from Cali, another from Alabama, 3 from Puerto Rico, and of course there are more but that's just a brief list.
God has been doing some exciting things here through our summer missionaries. We have seen more people come to know Christ, as well as seeing our children grow deeper in their personal relationships with God. It's so exciting when we are able to see children begin to understand that it's about their relationship with Christ, not some religion or tradition. It's a good reminder for us all.
I'm going to mention a few things that have been going on specifically at Joy Center, which is one of three centers that operates as Mission Centers of Houston.
The first full week of actual kids' club we were able to take 40! 4-10 year old children to the Houston Children's Museum. I have to admit, I had never been to a children's museum so the planning process was a bit frightening. We planned for 60 because that's how many we have been averaging, but summer school put a damper on some of that. We all had such a great time though, and the kids loved it! During parts of it, I think the summer missionaries and myself were enjoying it more than the kids. :) We are all just big kids....It's more fun that way!
Also, we had our first volunteer group for the summer last week. We were able to go to a community park about a block away from the center and spend time with the kids. We have been fortunate to see some of those same children begin to come to our programs. It has also been great to connect more with leaders in the community. The park director and his assistant allowed us to come in, and we have all been encouraged by the partnership that is resulting. We are able to add a few extra hands to their summer program, while gaining a better understanding of the needs of our community. It's such a tremendous opportunity!
We have an event coming up called Revived "hymns for the city"! It is going to be a concert fundraiser for Mission Centers of Houston. A few months ago, a few local artists volunteered their time and abilities to produce a CD, along with the generous support of individuals and churches who provided the funds to underwrite each song on the CD. Each part of the whole project has been just as important as the concert itself. Saturday, June 27th at 7:00 pm the concert will be held at Memorial Drive Baptist Church (Houston). Tickets are still available!!! If you live in the area, or if you know anyone who does, please pass the word along. The CD will also be available for sale, as well as shirts, bags, etc. Interested? Buy tickets at www.missioncenters.org
Side note: T-shirts can be purchased online at www.missioncenters.org which benefits Mission Centers of Houston. Even if you aren't interested in an AMAZING MCH T-shirt, you should check out the new website anyway! :)
Thank you for your prayers, and to those of you who gave so generously during my visit to SC. In total, God provided about $1200 through churches and individuals! What a blessing!!
Just a reminder- if you wanted to give but it slipped your mind, or didn't get a chance to, it is NOT too late! I start seminary in August, but I am still raising support as well as support for living expenses. So far I have a little less than half of the $3,500 that I am aiming for in order to pay for my first semester at DTS. A Master's in Cross-Cultural Ministries is the degree I am working towards. Please consider giving if you are able, and continue to pray for God's hand to remain on me here, and that I would be obedient in whatever He asks of me.
Thanks again for remaining faithful in your prayers and through your giving! God always provides!
"Todo lo puedo en Cristo que me fortalece!" (Philippians 4:13) ;)
God has been doing some exciting things here through our summer missionaries. We have seen more people come to know Christ, as well as seeing our children grow deeper in their personal relationships with God. It's so exciting when we are able to see children begin to understand that it's about their relationship with Christ, not some religion or tradition. It's a good reminder for us all.
I'm going to mention a few things that have been going on specifically at Joy Center, which is one of three centers that operates as Mission Centers of Houston.
The first full week of actual kids' club we were able to take 40! 4-10 year old children to the Houston Children's Museum. I have to admit, I had never been to a children's museum so the planning process was a bit frightening. We planned for 60 because that's how many we have been averaging, but summer school put a damper on some of that. We all had such a great time though, and the kids loved it! During parts of it, I think the summer missionaries and myself were enjoying it more than the kids. :) We are all just big kids....It's more fun that way!
Also, we had our first volunteer group for the summer last week. We were able to go to a community park about a block away from the center and spend time with the kids. We have been fortunate to see some of those same children begin to come to our programs. It has also been great to connect more with leaders in the community. The park director and his assistant allowed us to come in, and we have all been encouraged by the partnership that is resulting. We are able to add a few extra hands to their summer program, while gaining a better understanding of the needs of our community. It's such a tremendous opportunity!
We have an event coming up called Revived "hymns for the city"! It is going to be a concert fundraiser for Mission Centers of Houston. A few months ago, a few local artists volunteered their time and abilities to produce a CD, along with the generous support of individuals and churches who provided the funds to underwrite each song on the CD. Each part of the whole project has been just as important as the concert itself. Saturday, June 27th at 7:00 pm the concert will be held at Memorial Drive Baptist Church (Houston). Tickets are still available!!! If you live in the area, or if you know anyone who does, please pass the word along. The CD will also be available for sale, as well as shirts, bags, etc. Interested? Buy tickets at www.missioncenters.org
Side note: T-shirts can be purchased online at www.missioncenters.org which benefits Mission Centers of Houston. Even if you aren't interested in an AMAZING MCH T-shirt, you should check out the new website anyway! :)
Thank you for your prayers, and to those of you who gave so generously during my visit to SC. In total, God provided about $1200 through churches and individuals! What a blessing!!
Just a reminder- if you wanted to give but it slipped your mind, or didn't get a chance to, it is NOT too late! I start seminary in August, but I am still raising support as well as support for living expenses. So far I have a little less than half of the $3,500 that I am aiming for in order to pay for my first semester at DTS. A Master's in Cross-Cultural Ministries is the degree I am working towards. Please consider giving if you are able, and continue to pray for God's hand to remain on me here, and that I would be obedient in whatever He asks of me.
Thanks again for remaining faithful in your prayers and through your giving! God always provides!
"Todo lo puedo en Cristo que me fortalece!" (Philippians 4:13) ;)
Monday, May 11, 2009
FINALLY!
I'm sure that is what many of you are thinking! Many things have happened since my last post, which is mostly why I haven't been updating. We are currently gearing up for our summer programs which are going to be amazing!
In less than two weeks I'll being flying back to SC to visit and raise more support. As many of you know, I do receive a salary, but I am considered a part time employee because that was the position available when I took the job here. I am very appreciative of those who support me, regardless of which manner you choose and are able to do so. To those of you who pray for me, I thank you. I heard a speaker last week who said, "Prayer is the work, and ministry is the reward." This is easier said than done, but such valuable wisdom. To those who give financially, I can not do ministry without you either. Money isn't everything, but it is necessary.
I will just be honest, I am struggling. Of all of the newsletters and contacts I made before moving to Houston, I am currently financially supported by TWO individuals. That's right, two... I do not like to talk about money, because it is always a sensitive issue and my pride gets in the way. I do not like to ask for money, because I like to work and support myself. However, if God has blessed us financially, out of obedience we should bless others. In our last staff meeting, we were told that a envelope came in the mail with a donation for the mission centers. The donation was from a child in elementary school. If a child can be obedient in something so simple, I think we as adults can do the same.
As some of you may know, I have wanted to go to seminary for some time now. Weeks ago I began praying about it, and asking God to give me an opportunity to be trained and equipped to continue the work he has and will lead me to do. I made a commitment that if God provided a way for me to go, then in faith I would go even if financially I didn't feel I would be able to. I went ahead and applied to Dallas Theological Seminary, which has an extension campus in Houston. After a few weeks, I received a letter that I had been accepted!! The degree I will be pursuing is a Masters in Cross-Cultural Ministries. I have registered for classes, and I am confident that God will provide everything I need in order to continue to walk where he is leading me.
I want to share some other things with you. A few weeks ago I spent the weekend in Mississippi with my family. The focus was on seeing my youngest brother who will leave for Iraq on June 1st but has already begun the lock down period. It went really well, and I was also able to see my Dad. The three of us went fishing together for the first time in over ten years. It was great! Storms messed the fishing up, but nonetheless we were able to spend time together.
Today we hosted our 13th Annual Golf Tournament fundraiser. Originally, we had lost our underwriters and many sponsors because of the financial crisis. Thankfully, many churches and individuals stepped up to the challenge and helped to make the tournament a success. We thought we would only have about 100 golfers; we had 196 men and women hitting the green today. :)
As I said before, we are getting ready for the summer. Anybody that works at the mission centers will tell you that it is absolute madness during the summer. It is great, but extremely hectic. As it has taken me a while to blog during the preparation period, I will also be blogging less frequently during the summer. I will attempt to blog every couple of weeks, but please understand that we will be going wide open for the entire summer. We will also have 16 or 17 summer missionaries who will be split up between each of the three center. We will also have many more activities going on, as well as more individuals who participate in our programs.
Something exciting that is now part of our ministry at Joy involves our children's birthdays. A church has come forward and has committed to providing "Birthday Bags" for all of our children, ages 4-16. Each month I email a list of the children who have birthdays for the following month as well as their ages and what gifts they might like. Then a few weeks later, Sandy and Franke who are the leaders of this whole project bring the bags to the center. As the children's birthday come, we give them a birthday bag which includes a gift, as well as supplies for a small birthday party so the children can celebrate with their families. My director told me this past week that one of the moms came to her and asked if we were going to be able to provide a gift for her son's birthday. We told her not to worry because we would be able to. She was very appreciative because she was not able to buy her son a gift for his birthday. It's a unique way to show the kids that they are loved and valued that goes beyond the walls of the church, all because a Sunday school class that wanted to get involved in meeting needs of the people in our community.
We also did some special projects with the kids for Mother's Day. We planted seeds two weeks ago in small planters so that each would begin to sprout. Also, this past week we had parties where the kids could make cards for their moms. The kids were able to give their moms a flower that they had taken care of and homemade cards with a note to their moms. It was amazing to see how something so small could touch their moms' hearts because the moms knew how much work and thought the kids had put into it.
Again, thanks to all of you who read and keep up with my posts, and for your patience. Please continue to pray for all of us here that we will continue to glorify God alone in our ministries, and that God would continue using us to reach our broken communities.
8 “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.
9 For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
10 “The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry.
11 It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.
Isaiah 55:8-11
In less than two weeks I'll being flying back to SC to visit and raise more support. As many of you know, I do receive a salary, but I am considered a part time employee because that was the position available when I took the job here. I am very appreciative of those who support me, regardless of which manner you choose and are able to do so. To those of you who pray for me, I thank you. I heard a speaker last week who said, "Prayer is the work, and ministry is the reward." This is easier said than done, but such valuable wisdom. To those who give financially, I can not do ministry without you either. Money isn't everything, but it is necessary.
I will just be honest, I am struggling. Of all of the newsletters and contacts I made before moving to Houston, I am currently financially supported by TWO individuals. That's right, two... I do not like to talk about money, because it is always a sensitive issue and my pride gets in the way. I do not like to ask for money, because I like to work and support myself. However, if God has blessed us financially, out of obedience we should bless others. In our last staff meeting, we were told that a envelope came in the mail with a donation for the mission centers. The donation was from a child in elementary school. If a child can be obedient in something so simple, I think we as adults can do the same.
As some of you may know, I have wanted to go to seminary for some time now. Weeks ago I began praying about it, and asking God to give me an opportunity to be trained and equipped to continue the work he has and will lead me to do. I made a commitment that if God provided a way for me to go, then in faith I would go even if financially I didn't feel I would be able to. I went ahead and applied to Dallas Theological Seminary, which has an extension campus in Houston. After a few weeks, I received a letter that I had been accepted!! The degree I will be pursuing is a Masters in Cross-Cultural Ministries. I have registered for classes, and I am confident that God will provide everything I need in order to continue to walk where he is leading me.
I want to share some other things with you. A few weeks ago I spent the weekend in Mississippi with my family. The focus was on seeing my youngest brother who will leave for Iraq on June 1st but has already begun the lock down period. It went really well, and I was also able to see my Dad. The three of us went fishing together for the first time in over ten years. It was great! Storms messed the fishing up, but nonetheless we were able to spend time together.
Today we hosted our 13th Annual Golf Tournament fundraiser. Originally, we had lost our underwriters and many sponsors because of the financial crisis. Thankfully, many churches and individuals stepped up to the challenge and helped to make the tournament a success. We thought we would only have about 100 golfers; we had 196 men and women hitting the green today. :)
As I said before, we are getting ready for the summer. Anybody that works at the mission centers will tell you that it is absolute madness during the summer. It is great, but extremely hectic. As it has taken me a while to blog during the preparation period, I will also be blogging less frequently during the summer. I will attempt to blog every couple of weeks, but please understand that we will be going wide open for the entire summer. We will also have 16 or 17 summer missionaries who will be split up between each of the three center. We will also have many more activities going on, as well as more individuals who participate in our programs.
Something exciting that is now part of our ministry at Joy involves our children's birthdays. A church has come forward and has committed to providing "Birthday Bags" for all of our children, ages 4-16. Each month I email a list of the children who have birthdays for the following month as well as their ages and what gifts they might like. Then a few weeks later, Sandy and Franke who are the leaders of this whole project bring the bags to the center. As the children's birthday come, we give them a birthday bag which includes a gift, as well as supplies for a small birthday party so the children can celebrate with their families. My director told me this past week that one of the moms came to her and asked if we were going to be able to provide a gift for her son's birthday. We told her not to worry because we would be able to. She was very appreciative because she was not able to buy her son a gift for his birthday. It's a unique way to show the kids that they are loved and valued that goes beyond the walls of the church, all because a Sunday school class that wanted to get involved in meeting needs of the people in our community.
We also did some special projects with the kids for Mother's Day. We planted seeds two weeks ago in small planters so that each would begin to sprout. Also, this past week we had parties where the kids could make cards for their moms. The kids were able to give their moms a flower that they had taken care of and homemade cards with a note to their moms. It was amazing to see how something so small could touch their moms' hearts because the moms knew how much work and thought the kids had put into it.
Again, thanks to all of you who read and keep up with my posts, and for your patience. Please continue to pray for all of us here that we will continue to glorify God alone in our ministries, and that God would continue using us to reach our broken communities.
8 “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.
9 For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
10 “The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry.
11 It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.
Isaiah 55:8-11
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Only at the Mission Centers of Houston
So this blog will seem extremely random but after a couple of unexpected events I felt I should blog and let everyone know what has been going on.
First of all, last week was great as usual. We have been able to provide more food for our community because we had a large donation. It could not have come at a better time.
Secondly, we have been celebrating Christ's resurrection this week. The kids always love holidays because we have pizza. It's a BIG deal!
Now moving along to the main portion of my blog.
Event #1
One of the other missionaries that live here takes college courses on Saturday. She went to get in her car to leave on Saturday, and the main exit was blocked completely. There were 7 cop cars because they had chased a man down and pinned him the ditch. She went to go get into one of the center's vehicle so that she could go out the other exit.....well, then an ambulance showed up and blocked it too. Eventually she had to go off-road a bit through a rather large mud hole (the ditch) and she was on her way.
Event #2
I had decided I would blog either today or tomorrow as of yesterday because not much had been going on so I didn't have much to say. So apparently that changed. Today during kids' club my director got a phone call from one of our volunteers who had driven by and saw that the window on the van I drive to work was down. So I grabbed my keys to go check. Not exactly good timing because we had 39 children in the gym, and we were starting to sit them down so we could pull out the tables (so we could serve the pizza). I was thinking to myself, "I never roll the window down, and my hair is down so I know I wouldn't have." :) I walked up to the car and sure enough the window was down. I checked to make sure it hadn't been busted in, and there was no glass. At this point I'm thinking, well maybe for some reason I did leave it down....I cranked the car and went to roll the window up and nothing happen. Tried again, up and down.....again nothing. After the kids left I had more time to look at it and after investigation we have come to the conclusion that someone "jacked" (stole) the window right out of the van. Sounds crazy but the window didn't fall down into the door.....I called my executive director and she laughed. Not much else you can do in this situation. :)
Event #3
This happened about 20 minutes ago. Four of us were sitting in the lounge watching a basketball game. All of a sudden we hear 5 loud pops. Not wanting to jump to conclusions we said, "ah, it sounded like fireworks." Then the other missionary who could get out of the exit on Saturday came in and said, "Did you guys hear the 5 shots?" Turns out, there was a drive by.... Then, a friend and I remembered seeing a guy run into the house across the street. You don't really walk around here at night, so it wasn't really out of the ordinary. Well, that's the house the shots were fired at because the truck the shooter was in drove back by after firing the shots.
All this to say, only at the Mission Centers of Houston.
What can we possibly do in an area like this? Share Christ and watch him transform people's lives!
* As for the question about the roof. A roofer volunteered his time and resources this past week and repaired our roof. We'll see if it worked the next time it rains.
Thanks again to all of you who follow the blog.
First of all, last week was great as usual. We have been able to provide more food for our community because we had a large donation. It could not have come at a better time.
Secondly, we have been celebrating Christ's resurrection this week. The kids always love holidays because we have pizza. It's a BIG deal!
Now moving along to the main portion of my blog.
Event #1
One of the other missionaries that live here takes college courses on Saturday. She went to get in her car to leave on Saturday, and the main exit was blocked completely. There were 7 cop cars because they had chased a man down and pinned him the ditch. She went to go get into one of the center's vehicle so that she could go out the other exit.....well, then an ambulance showed up and blocked it too. Eventually she had to go off-road a bit through a rather large mud hole (the ditch) and she was on her way.
Event #2
I had decided I would blog either today or tomorrow as of yesterday because not much had been going on so I didn't have much to say. So apparently that changed. Today during kids' club my director got a phone call from one of our volunteers who had driven by and saw that the window on the van I drive to work was down. So I grabbed my keys to go check. Not exactly good timing because we had 39 children in the gym, and we were starting to sit them down so we could pull out the tables (so we could serve the pizza). I was thinking to myself, "I never roll the window down, and my hair is down so I know I wouldn't have." :) I walked up to the car and sure enough the window was down. I checked to make sure it hadn't been busted in, and there was no glass. At this point I'm thinking, well maybe for some reason I did leave it down....I cranked the car and went to roll the window up and nothing happen. Tried again, up and down.....again nothing. After the kids left I had more time to look at it and after investigation we have come to the conclusion that someone "jacked" (stole) the window right out of the van. Sounds crazy but the window didn't fall down into the door.....I called my executive director and she laughed. Not much else you can do in this situation. :)
Event #3
This happened about 20 minutes ago. Four of us were sitting in the lounge watching a basketball game. All of a sudden we hear 5 loud pops. Not wanting to jump to conclusions we said, "ah, it sounded like fireworks." Then the other missionary who could get out of the exit on Saturday came in and said, "Did you guys hear the 5 shots?" Turns out, there was a drive by.... Then, a friend and I remembered seeing a guy run into the house across the street. You don't really walk around here at night, so it wasn't really out of the ordinary. Well, that's the house the shots were fired at because the truck the shooter was in drove back by after firing the shots.
All this to say, only at the Mission Centers of Houston.
What can we possibly do in an area like this? Share Christ and watch him transform people's lives!
* As for the question about the roof. A roofer volunteered his time and resources this past week and repaired our roof. We'll see if it worked the next time it rains.
Thanks again to all of you who follow the blog.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
WATER!
I saw a lot of this liquid substance this week! The weather here is always so unpredictable, much like my life.
Thursday we were expecting rain, which generally means taking extra care on the drive to and from work, as well as Monday morning clean up in our gym. We have a leak in our roof that can get pretty nasty if the rain is coming down hard enough. At about 3:15 I started hearing water come down in the gym from my office. I thought "no big deal, we'll just have to clean it up once the rain quits." So I step out of my office, and head down the hall, and around the corner to the gym. At this point I realized that it was raining much harder outside than I originally thought. We all quickly started grabbing trash cans, even if they were full so we can empty them and use all we all to catch the water.
This is when the extent of the water was clear. I walked passed our kitchen which is between the offices, and the gym. Water was pouring in so quickly one would have thought the fire department had hooked up a hose and let loose from the ceiling!
Long story short, we did our best to drain the water as best we could until we came to the conclusion that we could do no more. Roy, which is my director's husband, handed me a tool that did a fantastic job of pushing water out the front door. Then I figured out that it was one of those industrial size squeegees that are used to clean massive office building windows. :) HA! Who knew it would come in so handy?!
Aside from our flood situation the week was a great one! When I say great, its easy to think it was fun and all. Not to say, I didn't have fun but God definitely taught me a thing or to this week. I won't go into too much detail, but God has been humbling me through some personal things. Also, God has been teaching me about faith, and trusting Him. I heard a sermon about how we have to trust in God's presence even though what we may see doesn't add up. I tend to use money as an example because it's something we all use, or could use some of. :) The more and more I step out in faith, though it scares me, God has shown himself faithful time and time again. I was trying to make a budget for myself this week, and after putting in the expected income and expected expenses all I could do was laugh. Laugh because the number expected to come in never really compensates for what must go out. I'm thankful that God is present even when what I see tries to make me doubt his provision!
In the Bible, Jesus talks to the woman at the well about living water. As I watched the water gush in on Thursday faster than we could manage to dump our buckets, God reminded me about the woman at the well. I gave my life to Christ long ago for Him to do with it what pleases Him. Just like the water, I want his living water to gush into my life so that it spills over to others. So that others may know Him. How amazing He is, this God the one and only whom I serve. How could I not give my life for Him, after He displayed the ultimate act of love and giving His life for me?
"For you are all children of God through faith in Jesus Christ."
Galatians 3:26
Thursday we were expecting rain, which generally means taking extra care on the drive to and from work, as well as Monday morning clean up in our gym. We have a leak in our roof that can get pretty nasty if the rain is coming down hard enough. At about 3:15 I started hearing water come down in the gym from my office. I thought "no big deal, we'll just have to clean it up once the rain quits." So I step out of my office, and head down the hall, and around the corner to the gym. At this point I realized that it was raining much harder outside than I originally thought. We all quickly started grabbing trash cans, even if they were full so we can empty them and use all we all to catch the water.
This is when the extent of the water was clear. I walked passed our kitchen which is between the offices, and the gym. Water was pouring in so quickly one would have thought the fire department had hooked up a hose and let loose from the ceiling!
Long story short, we did our best to drain the water as best we could until we came to the conclusion that we could do no more. Roy, which is my director's husband, handed me a tool that did a fantastic job of pushing water out the front door. Then I figured out that it was one of those industrial size squeegees that are used to clean massive office building windows. :) HA! Who knew it would come in so handy?!
Aside from our flood situation the week was a great one! When I say great, its easy to think it was fun and all. Not to say, I didn't have fun but God definitely taught me a thing or to this week. I won't go into too much detail, but God has been humbling me through some personal things. Also, God has been teaching me about faith, and trusting Him. I heard a sermon about how we have to trust in God's presence even though what we may see doesn't add up. I tend to use money as an example because it's something we all use, or could use some of. :) The more and more I step out in faith, though it scares me, God has shown himself faithful time and time again. I was trying to make a budget for myself this week, and after putting in the expected income and expected expenses all I could do was laugh. Laugh because the number expected to come in never really compensates for what must go out. I'm thankful that God is present even when what I see tries to make me doubt his provision!
In the Bible, Jesus talks to the woman at the well about living water. As I watched the water gush in on Thursday faster than we could manage to dump our buckets, God reminded me about the woman at the well. I gave my life to Christ long ago for Him to do with it what pleases Him. Just like the water, I want his living water to gush into my life so that it spills over to others. So that others may know Him. How amazing He is, this God the one and only whom I serve. How could I not give my life for Him, after He displayed the ultimate act of love and giving His life for me?
"For you are all children of God through faith in Jesus Christ."
Galatians 3:26
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Spring Break Teams!
For many of you who will read this, Spring Break has now come and gone unfortunately. Sorry about that, but at least now summer is not so far away!
The last two weeks were great! Two different teams came in to work with and serve our community. One group was a high school group from McKinney, TX. The other group was a college group from Kentucky. Both teams helped out tremendously with work that normally would take weeks to finish. Also, two friends from FMU came to visit this past week. Nancy and Kathrina also served at two of the centers and got the opportunity to practice their Spanish. ;) (If you don't know, these two girls are from Germany, so it was interesting to see different cultures mesh.)
Both of the groups that came worked at the two other centers we have in Houston, but I can not express how great it was to interact with new people especially when they are full of such zeal! It's contagious! :) If you didn't already know this, I LOVE MEETING NEW PEOPLE! The longer I am here, my desire to meet new faces only increases. It's interesting...I am with people almost all day, everyday yet still I can't seem to get enough. Don't get me wrong, there are those days when I need alone time but most often I just miss people.
On a different yet similar note, Nancy and Kathrina really encouraged me this week. Aside from Krissy who visited a few weeks ago (which was amazing by the way!) they are the first ones to visit from home. I have to admit, I have been getting a bit homesick. This is not normal for me because I generally like the fast paced environment going from one place to the next, without ever REALLY missing home. Well, I've hit that point. I guess after spending time with Krissy a few weeks ago, and then the girls this week, it's constant reminders of friends, family, and good times. Hopefully, I'll get to visit SC towards the end of May before the summer gets on a roll.
One thing that I would ask from all of you who read and follow my blog, please comment and let me know what you would like to hear about. I know what things tend to stand out to me, but I do this day in and day out so my viewpoint is very different from all of you. I will be posting some pictures soon, if I can figure it out.
Lastly, there is a girl who I've had the privilege of spending time with after work lately. She lives across the street so she is usually playing out in front of the building when I come home each day. The first day I talked to her I was just asking very general things about school, and her favorite subject, etc. She is in second grade, and just a precious little girl. We have starting reading books together after work. From a teacher's perspective, I want her to become a stronger reader. It's interesting how quickly you can see progress if you're looking for it. Not that her progress has been drastic but just seeing her become more confident as a reader is so exciting! If you come across any good children's books that you think she might enjoy, please pass that info along.
Thank you to those of you who pray and give to support me. If you all were not faithful in your support, I would not be able to do what God is allowing me to do in Houston. :)
The last two weeks were great! Two different teams came in to work with and serve our community. One group was a high school group from McKinney, TX. The other group was a college group from Kentucky. Both teams helped out tremendously with work that normally would take weeks to finish. Also, two friends from FMU came to visit this past week. Nancy and Kathrina also served at two of the centers and got the opportunity to practice their Spanish. ;) (If you don't know, these two girls are from Germany, so it was interesting to see different cultures mesh.)
Both of the groups that came worked at the two other centers we have in Houston, but I can not express how great it was to interact with new people especially when they are full of such zeal! It's contagious! :) If you didn't already know this, I LOVE MEETING NEW PEOPLE! The longer I am here, my desire to meet new faces only increases. It's interesting...I am with people almost all day, everyday yet still I can't seem to get enough. Don't get me wrong, there are those days when I need alone time but most often I just miss people.
On a different yet similar note, Nancy and Kathrina really encouraged me this week. Aside from Krissy who visited a few weeks ago (which was amazing by the way!) they are the first ones to visit from home. I have to admit, I have been getting a bit homesick. This is not normal for me because I generally like the fast paced environment going from one place to the next, without ever REALLY missing home. Well, I've hit that point. I guess after spending time with Krissy a few weeks ago, and then the girls this week, it's constant reminders of friends, family, and good times. Hopefully, I'll get to visit SC towards the end of May before the summer gets on a roll.
One thing that I would ask from all of you who read and follow my blog, please comment and let me know what you would like to hear about. I know what things tend to stand out to me, but I do this day in and day out so my viewpoint is very different from all of you. I will be posting some pictures soon, if I can figure it out.
Lastly, there is a girl who I've had the privilege of spending time with after work lately. She lives across the street so she is usually playing out in front of the building when I come home each day. The first day I talked to her I was just asking very general things about school, and her favorite subject, etc. She is in second grade, and just a precious little girl. We have starting reading books together after work. From a teacher's perspective, I want her to become a stronger reader. It's interesting how quickly you can see progress if you're looking for it. Not that her progress has been drastic but just seeing her become more confident as a reader is so exciting! If you come across any good children's books that you think she might enjoy, please pass that info along.
Thank you to those of you who pray and give to support me. If you all were not faithful in your support, I would not be able to do what God is allowing me to do in Houston. :)
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Thoughts
Normally, when I post, I think of specific things that happened or particular events that represent the work I do. This week has been a great week but there aren't any events that have marked this week for me. Instead, I have been running through some different things in my mind about life, and my existence.
I can't speak for everyone, but I know I was designed for greatness. Not to say that everyone was not designed for greatness; I think most people just don't know that God made them that way. Before I moved to Texas, I was finishing up with my degree. Though everyday I learned something, I would always tell other people "this isn't it for me" or "so much more can be done."
I accepted Christ my junior year of high school. I never really had any dreams other than to play sports. I cared very little about academics, people, or the "American Dream", though I'm still not sure what that is all about. I never had a desire to work a routine job or anything like that, I just went with the flow of things. I made my own decisions, but come as it may.
Since then, I've matured quite a bit, and have a better perspective than I did as a junior in high school. I view the world much differently, but the more I learn and see and do, the more I am less content with what is being done. It's easy to sit an watch what is happening around me. There are times when I watch TV and all I can do is shake my head; then I change the channel. But what good is shaking my head, if all I'll ever do is change the channel?
I wrote down a statement on a post-it one day last semester that read "Mediocrity is never an option when you have the Creator of the universe living inside of you." I stuck the note inside my closest so I would see it every now and then. It's still fresh in my mind. I have absolutely no desire to live a "normal" life. And don't get me wrong, some people are completely content with their jobs and lives and I'm not saying their is anything wrong with that. It's great, as long as it's what you should be doing.
I always wonder, and I'm being completely honest, if I'll find the job that fits me perfectly. I can't imagine what it would even look like. In reality, I may never find a job that fits me to a "T", but if my job energizes me to continue, and to "be the change [I] wish to see in the world" as Gandhi put it, then I'll put up with any amount of displeasure I may experience.
Several people have asked me over the past few years, and I'm going to assume this question is written in a book somewhere because it's used often, "If you could not fail, what would you attempt?" Often I do not have a response, because there is this overwhelming desire that I have to be great. A passion to see the world, and the many faces that make up this globe of diversity. Not to change a person's circumstance, but to somehow give them hope no matter their circumstance. Let me say, I am nothing without Christ, but with Him there's nothing I cannot do. So, what do I do? Day in and day out. In the mundane, in the busyness, in the routine, in the chaos.... What moves me? And as I travel on this journey, what does He move me to do?
Most of you have heard the statistic that most people only use about 10% of their brains. (No, I don't know where it came from.) And this could very well be just another useless statistic that means nothing......but how many of us really feel challenged each and every day? Even just some days? There are days when I feel I am extremely busy, with a mountain of things to accomplish but does it challenge me to the core of who I am? Does it challenge me to be great (through Christ's strength)?
I myself am fearful of the unknown. I avoid the possibility of failure if at all possible. I tend to shy away from tasks that seem impossible though I'm burning inside to see what it would be like to even attempt such feats. Failure is inevitable, so why should it matter if we could fall flat on our faces? What holds us back? And why do we allow it? I remember as a kid I would climb the tallest trees I could find, if I could get to the first branch. Ironically, I am now afraid of heights. I get to the first branch, maybe the second on a good day and that's enough for me. Life hurts after a fall, but if we could only maintain our adventurous side that doesn't mind taking risks, even if it is just being naive.
I'm not challenging anyone to climb a Redwood(unless your heart so desires), but let's get going! :)
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light,not our darkness that most frightens us.We ask ourselves.Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine; we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear,our presence automatically liberates others.”
- Marianne Williamson
I can't speak for everyone, but I know I was designed for greatness. Not to say that everyone was not designed for greatness; I think most people just don't know that God made them that way. Before I moved to Texas, I was finishing up with my degree. Though everyday I learned something, I would always tell other people "this isn't it for me" or "so much more can be done."
I accepted Christ my junior year of high school. I never really had any dreams other than to play sports. I cared very little about academics, people, or the "American Dream", though I'm still not sure what that is all about. I never had a desire to work a routine job or anything like that, I just went with the flow of things. I made my own decisions, but come as it may.
Since then, I've matured quite a bit, and have a better perspective than I did as a junior in high school. I view the world much differently, but the more I learn and see and do, the more I am less content with what is being done. It's easy to sit an watch what is happening around me. There are times when I watch TV and all I can do is shake my head; then I change the channel. But what good is shaking my head, if all I'll ever do is change the channel?
I wrote down a statement on a post-it one day last semester that read "Mediocrity is never an option when you have the Creator of the universe living inside of you." I stuck the note inside my closest so I would see it every now and then. It's still fresh in my mind. I have absolutely no desire to live a "normal" life. And don't get me wrong, some people are completely content with their jobs and lives and I'm not saying their is anything wrong with that. It's great, as long as it's what you should be doing.
I always wonder, and I'm being completely honest, if I'll find the job that fits me perfectly. I can't imagine what it would even look like. In reality, I may never find a job that fits me to a "T", but if my job energizes me to continue, and to "be the change [I] wish to see in the world" as Gandhi put it, then I'll put up with any amount of displeasure I may experience.
Several people have asked me over the past few years, and I'm going to assume this question is written in a book somewhere because it's used often, "If you could not fail, what would you attempt?" Often I do not have a response, because there is this overwhelming desire that I have to be great. A passion to see the world, and the many faces that make up this globe of diversity. Not to change a person's circumstance, but to somehow give them hope no matter their circumstance. Let me say, I am nothing without Christ, but with Him there's nothing I cannot do. So, what do I do? Day in and day out. In the mundane, in the busyness, in the routine, in the chaos.... What moves me? And as I travel on this journey, what does He move me to do?
Most of you have heard the statistic that most people only use about 10% of their brains. (No, I don't know where it came from.) And this could very well be just another useless statistic that means nothing......but how many of us really feel challenged each and every day? Even just some days? There are days when I feel I am extremely busy, with a mountain of things to accomplish but does it challenge me to the core of who I am? Does it challenge me to be great (through Christ's strength)?
I myself am fearful of the unknown. I avoid the possibility of failure if at all possible. I tend to shy away from tasks that seem impossible though I'm burning inside to see what it would be like to even attempt such feats. Failure is inevitable, so why should it matter if we could fall flat on our faces? What holds us back? And why do we allow it? I remember as a kid I would climb the tallest trees I could find, if I could get to the first branch. Ironically, I am now afraid of heights. I get to the first branch, maybe the second on a good day and that's enough for me. Life hurts after a fall, but if we could only maintain our adventurous side that doesn't mind taking risks, even if it is just being naive.
I'm not challenging anyone to climb a Redwood(unless your heart so desires), but let's get going! :)
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light,not our darkness that most frightens us.We ask ourselves.Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine; we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear,our presence automatically liberates others.”
- Marianne Williamson
Sunday, March 1, 2009
What has been happening and What is to come....
Thank you all so much for your patience! I tend to get off track with my posts. I received a couple of phone calls and cards over the past two weeks that were really encouraging. Thanks again for making it a point to encourage, pray, and support me.
What's been happening at Mission Centers of Houston? What is to come?
Last weekend we had our annual Winter Experience Banquet fundraiser. Our goal was $50,000. Due to the increased number of people we are serving, and the declining economy we were praying that God would provide this amount. In the worst economy as we've been told by news anchors and analysts everywhere, God provided $50,000!!! Since last Friday night other checks have come in as a result of the banquet. God can clearly do more than we could ask or imagine.
We have another fundraiser coming up soon. It's an annual golf tournament. Unfortunately, we were told in our staff meeting on Friday that our two underwriters for the tournament are financially unable to underwrite the event this year. Pray that God will work in the hearts of those He seeks to use to provide for every need here at MCH.
Spring Break is only days away for many people who will be coming to serve at the three mission centers. We are so excited!! Teams coming from different parts of the U.S. will be serving with us to meet the needs of our community. Many have done inner city ministry before, but for the ones who have not it will definitely be an eye-opening experience. Pray that these students will see how God is using this ministry in Houston, and take it back to their own communities to be the hands and feet of Jesus or even decide to come back and serve during the summer. :)
SUMMER MISSIONARIES!!
Obviously I'm excited about the summer. This past week we were given contact information for 7 new missionaries that will be joining us this summer! Please pray that God will prepare these students and that he will send more workers! We need girls and GUYS! I stress this because there's almost always enough girls, but unfortunately always a shortage of guys. We want strong male role models for our boys and young men who are growing up without these godly men to look up to. We know that God is faithful and He WILL provide!
Reload Conference:
Yesterday, we attended an urban youth workers' conference called Reload. It was geared towards church youth groups and the leaders. Though we are a non-profit, we were encouraged and challenged none the less. The main speaker made a statement that is not new information and is found in the Bible. For some reason it finally clicked in my mind... This is paraphrased, Many of you are exhausted and ready to quit working with the youth in your churches and communities because you are doing all the work! He then followed by reading this verse:
"Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to EQUIP God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-12
We equip our students so that they can build up the church. We teach students so that they will be equipped to reach other students. We have youth ministries, not just youth groups that are based on a "teacher" popping in a video and then asking a few questions afterwards. No wonder the youth stop coming when there's no money to buy pizza each week. Jesus reached the world through a few disciples. I think we can all benefit from looking at His example. God, help us to get it right!
Events at Joy Mission Center:
Thursday we had about 20 beginning nursing students from HBU (Houston Baptist University) who came in and hosted our Health Fair for the community. We had almost 90 people from the community who attended. We had just about as many kids as we had adults! :) People were broken into small groups and each group rotated to the next booth when the time was up. The demonstrations ranged from managing blood pressure and blood sugar to more kid friendly demonstrations of how to wash your hands properly and how to brush and floss properly. As I walked around to make sure we had enough people to translate for the community, many of the kids who come to our afternoon programs would run up and tell me about how dirty their hands were after they thought they had washed them properly. (They told me as they grabbed my hand) :) There were also booths set up that addressed ways to prevent diabetes as well as information on a healthy diet for kids and adults. It was great to see so many parents with their kids!
Preteens & Teens
We had one of our preteens move up to the teen group this week. Roberto is such a bright young man and has a desire to serve. Normally, the teens don't like to pray aloud in front of the rest of the teens but I was so encouraged this week because Roberto who normally prays in preteens volunteered to open and close our Bible study in prayer. This may not seem like much but he is the youngest in the group! He knows that he could get picked on but he doesn't care. He made the statement a few weeks ago that he is not ashamed to talk to God in front of people and other people who say they are Christians shouldn't be either. I'm thankful for Roberto and his family. He is the son of one of our faithful volunteers at joy and he and his family have grown up at Joy. God is doing great things through this family and many others in our community!
Speaking of our Community!
As I have told you before, the number of people we serve each day is increasing as each new day comes. Last week, we set another record since the beginning of the year. The most we had served in one day thus far was 70; last week we served 77 in a single day. Please pray that each person who comes into the center experiences the love of God as we seek to serve God and reach our community through meeting their needs.
Why do we do it?
Many have asked me why I would come to Houston. "You could go teach somewhere else." "Why don't you go to China and teach English, or anywhere else? You can make more money!" Many of my other co-workers are asked the same questions on a normal basis. While I could teach somewhere else, and "use" my teaching degree (in a more common setting than how it is used everyday here in Houston) I choose to remain where God has placed me.
Paul said it best in 2 Corinthians 6:10
"Our hears ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing but we have EVERYTHING! :)
What we do now, will impact generations! I'll be here until God moves me! :)
What's been happening at Mission Centers of Houston? What is to come?
Last weekend we had our annual Winter Experience Banquet fundraiser. Our goal was $50,000. Due to the increased number of people we are serving, and the declining economy we were praying that God would provide this amount. In the worst economy as we've been told by news anchors and analysts everywhere, God provided $50,000!!! Since last Friday night other checks have come in as a result of the banquet. God can clearly do more than we could ask or imagine.
We have another fundraiser coming up soon. It's an annual golf tournament. Unfortunately, we were told in our staff meeting on Friday that our two underwriters for the tournament are financially unable to underwrite the event this year. Pray that God will work in the hearts of those He seeks to use to provide for every need here at MCH.
Spring Break is only days away for many people who will be coming to serve at the three mission centers. We are so excited!! Teams coming from different parts of the U.S. will be serving with us to meet the needs of our community. Many have done inner city ministry before, but for the ones who have not it will definitely be an eye-opening experience. Pray that these students will see how God is using this ministry in Houston, and take it back to their own communities to be the hands and feet of Jesus or even decide to come back and serve during the summer. :)
SUMMER MISSIONARIES!!
Obviously I'm excited about the summer. This past week we were given contact information for 7 new missionaries that will be joining us this summer! Please pray that God will prepare these students and that he will send more workers! We need girls and GUYS! I stress this because there's almost always enough girls, but unfortunately always a shortage of guys. We want strong male role models for our boys and young men who are growing up without these godly men to look up to. We know that God is faithful and He WILL provide!
Reload Conference:
Yesterday, we attended an urban youth workers' conference called Reload. It was geared towards church youth groups and the leaders. Though we are a non-profit, we were encouraged and challenged none the less. The main speaker made a statement that is not new information and is found in the Bible. For some reason it finally clicked in my mind... This is paraphrased, Many of you are exhausted and ready to quit working with the youth in your churches and communities because you are doing all the work! He then followed by reading this verse:
"Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to EQUIP God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-12
We equip our students so that they can build up the church. We teach students so that they will be equipped to reach other students. We have youth ministries, not just youth groups that are based on a "teacher" popping in a video and then asking a few questions afterwards. No wonder the youth stop coming when there's no money to buy pizza each week. Jesus reached the world through a few disciples. I think we can all benefit from looking at His example. God, help us to get it right!
Events at Joy Mission Center:
Thursday we had about 20 beginning nursing students from HBU (Houston Baptist University) who came in and hosted our Health Fair for the community. We had almost 90 people from the community who attended. We had just about as many kids as we had adults! :) People were broken into small groups and each group rotated to the next booth when the time was up. The demonstrations ranged from managing blood pressure and blood sugar to more kid friendly demonstrations of how to wash your hands properly and how to brush and floss properly. As I walked around to make sure we had enough people to translate for the community, many of the kids who come to our afternoon programs would run up and tell me about how dirty their hands were after they thought they had washed them properly. (They told me as they grabbed my hand) :) There were also booths set up that addressed ways to prevent diabetes as well as information on a healthy diet for kids and adults. It was great to see so many parents with their kids!
Preteens & Teens
We had one of our preteens move up to the teen group this week. Roberto is such a bright young man and has a desire to serve. Normally, the teens don't like to pray aloud in front of the rest of the teens but I was so encouraged this week because Roberto who normally prays in preteens volunteered to open and close our Bible study in prayer. This may not seem like much but he is the youngest in the group! He knows that he could get picked on but he doesn't care. He made the statement a few weeks ago that he is not ashamed to talk to God in front of people and other people who say they are Christians shouldn't be either. I'm thankful for Roberto and his family. He is the son of one of our faithful volunteers at joy and he and his family have grown up at Joy. God is doing great things through this family and many others in our community!
Speaking of our Community!
As I have told you before, the number of people we serve each day is increasing as each new day comes. Last week, we set another record since the beginning of the year. The most we had served in one day thus far was 70; last week we served 77 in a single day. Please pray that each person who comes into the center experiences the love of God as we seek to serve God and reach our community through meeting their needs.
Why do we do it?
Many have asked me why I would come to Houston. "You could go teach somewhere else." "Why don't you go to China and teach English, or anywhere else? You can make more money!" Many of my other co-workers are asked the same questions on a normal basis. While I could teach somewhere else, and "use" my teaching degree (in a more common setting than how it is used everyday here in Houston) I choose to remain where God has placed me.
Paul said it best in 2 Corinthians 6:10
"Our hears ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing but we have EVERYTHING! :)
What we do now, will impact generations! I'll be here until God moves me! :)
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Catching my Breath....
First of all, let me apologize to those of you who follow this blog faithfully. It has been two weeks since my last update. I won't keep you waiting any longer! :)
Last Week: (Feb. 2nd-8th)
Tommie, my director went into knee replacement surgery on Wednesday. Needless to say, Wednesday was a bit stressful. Put best, it was my "freak-out" day. I quickly realized what I was not fully prepared for. Moving along....by Thursday I had accepted the challenge and was ready to move forward. It was a wonderful day! Last week consisted of the normal ministry activities, as well as returning messages for Tommie because of the many people who were calling to check on her. She was very encouraged by this and I was comforted because of people who came by and let me know that if I needed any help at all to let them know. :) Last week seems like a blur so I will recap on this past week.
This Past Week: (Feb. 9th-Feb. 15th)
MUCHO GENTES! This means a lot of people! This was what I said Tuesday morning when I walked into the gym at 9:05am. Berta, who is a faithful volunteer, begins signing people in at 9:00am for food and clothing distribution. At 9:05am there were 36 people already waiting to be interviewed. Since I have been here, I have not seen this many people. To give you a better idea, normally in one day we serve between 35-50 people, 51 being the most we served in a day for the month of January. At the end of Tuesday, we had served a total of 70 people. Last month, we had a total of 61 new people who came food and clothing. In two days alone, we have served almost 40 new people.
We are all aware of the economy. For me, this definitely put more faces to the situation. We hear on the news constantly about foreclosures and unemployment. More and more people are in need, and I am certain that this trend will continue until the economic mess is straightened out. Please continue to pray for the leaders of our country. They are faced with a great challenge, but we serve a great God.
Some of you may be wondering if we did anything special for Valentine's week. We did. :) Each day, we have a different group of kids because they are broken into different age groups. We had a pizza party for every group. Also, we had two different groups of women who put much effort into making valentine treat bags for the kids, preteens, and teens. I talked with them about what it means to show love everyday, not just on Valentine's Day. Also, reflecting on this week. I was thinking about what love means to me, and what it means to show it. I am reminded of a passage in scripture. I'll share it with you below. I believe this puts action behind the verse, "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Acts 4: 32-37
32 All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. 33 The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s great blessing was upon them all. 34 There were no needy people among them, because those who owned land or houses would sell them 35 and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need.
36 For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus. 37 He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles.
Last Week: (Feb. 2nd-8th)
Tommie, my director went into knee replacement surgery on Wednesday. Needless to say, Wednesday was a bit stressful. Put best, it was my "freak-out" day. I quickly realized what I was not fully prepared for. Moving along....by Thursday I had accepted the challenge and was ready to move forward. It was a wonderful day! Last week consisted of the normal ministry activities, as well as returning messages for Tommie because of the many people who were calling to check on her. She was very encouraged by this and I was comforted because of people who came by and let me know that if I needed any help at all to let them know. :) Last week seems like a blur so I will recap on this past week.
This Past Week: (Feb. 9th-Feb. 15th)
MUCHO GENTES! This means a lot of people! This was what I said Tuesday morning when I walked into the gym at 9:05am. Berta, who is a faithful volunteer, begins signing people in at 9:00am for food and clothing distribution. At 9:05am there were 36 people already waiting to be interviewed. Since I have been here, I have not seen this many people. To give you a better idea, normally in one day we serve between 35-50 people, 51 being the most we served in a day for the month of January. At the end of Tuesday, we had served a total of 70 people. Last month, we had a total of 61 new people who came food and clothing. In two days alone, we have served almost 40 new people.
We are all aware of the economy. For me, this definitely put more faces to the situation. We hear on the news constantly about foreclosures and unemployment. More and more people are in need, and I am certain that this trend will continue until the economic mess is straightened out. Please continue to pray for the leaders of our country. They are faced with a great challenge, but we serve a great God.
Some of you may be wondering if we did anything special for Valentine's week. We did. :) Each day, we have a different group of kids because they are broken into different age groups. We had a pizza party for every group. Also, we had two different groups of women who put much effort into making valentine treat bags for the kids, preteens, and teens. I talked with them about what it means to show love everyday, not just on Valentine's Day. Also, reflecting on this week. I was thinking about what love means to me, and what it means to show it. I am reminded of a passage in scripture. I'll share it with you below. I believe this puts action behind the verse, "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Acts 4: 32-37
32 All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. 33 The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s great blessing was upon them all. 34 There were no needy people among them, because those who owned land or houses would sell them 35 and bring the money to the apostles to give to those in need.
36 For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus. 37 He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
The Weeks are Flying by!
Hola! Como estas? :) I hope everyone has had a great week! Also, I watched the Superbowl tonight and I don't know what it is but I normally like rooting for the underdog...too bad it didn't pay off.
Anyway, this week went by very quickly it seemed like. We had about the same amount of kids, preteens, and teens though this was not the case for our clothing and food distribution. My director informed my that we actually had over 60 new people come for food and clothing. I have no doubt that much of this is due to our economic situation. No matter the reason, we accept them and hope that each will come to a deeper knowledge of Christ through our ministry.
This week I focused on Peace with my teens and preteens. I used the story of when Jesus fed the 5,000. Most people would think, "what does that have to do with peace?" Have you ever been to a birthday party where the kids had a chance to break the pinata? Sure, they may want to pound on the thing, but their main motivation is to get the candy. As soon as it breaks, there is absolute CHAOS! :) Children screaming, grabbing, kicking.....OK, there are also adults involved in things of this nature as well. Go to a sporting event, and watch a home run ball fly into the stands and see what happens, or go shopping the day after Thanksgiving....I think you get the point.
God is not the author of confusion! God provided for over 5,000 people through meeting a basic need. Had he not, it could have been absolute chaos. The example I used with each of the groups was based on this idea. I told the teens/preteens that I had a few candy bars but not enough for everybody. I threw them on the table, and they did exactly what I expected them to; they did whatever they had to do to get a candy bar. While I was making the point of peace, I asked them if there was anything peaceful about what happened when I put the candy bars on the table. The obvious answer was no and that began a very good discussion.
One fruit or characteristic that the Holy Spirit produces in the life of a Christian is peace. When we are around other people, can they see peace through our lives or do we create chaos through gossip, back-biting, or whatever else it is that we seem to be very well known for? Do we bring peace to already chaotic situations or does the chaos overtake us?Unfortunately, peace is not something that people often see in the lives of Christians.
When I think about chaos I have seen created by Christians, I think of protesters outside of building or in the streets, who claim to be Christians, but are screaming at the very people that we are commanded to love, people who may never know the love of Christ because the Christians who claim to be passionate followers allowed their passions to turn into hatred when they took Christ out of the picture. That may seem confusing but think about issues such as homosexuality, eating disorders, cutting, abortions, and addictions just to name a few. (Yes, I realize I may catch flack from this but so did Christ as He spoke truth even though it was not popular.)
I have seen so many pictures, video clips, read articles, blogs, heard people and so forth that communicate everything but love towards these types of issues. I will be very clear and say that yes, these are sins, but so is lying, cheating on your spouse, stealing, using the Lord's name in vain, over-eating, etc..... The list goes on and will because we are not perfect.
Looking at the idea of peace, we should definitely be the ones who are peacefully speaking truth without using Truth (the Bible) to mask rage or hatred for the sin in another person's life. We are very quick to point out the flaws of others without looking at ourselves and realizing that we could just as easily be in the same situation. It's only by God's grace that we are who we are. So why not allow the Holy Spirit to produce peace in our lives so that others will come to know the love of our Father?
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS, and SELF-Control. There is NO law against these things!" -Galatians 5:22-23
"....What is important is faith expressing itself in love." -Galatians 5:6
Anyway, this week went by very quickly it seemed like. We had about the same amount of kids, preteens, and teens though this was not the case for our clothing and food distribution. My director informed my that we actually had over 60 new people come for food and clothing. I have no doubt that much of this is due to our economic situation. No matter the reason, we accept them and hope that each will come to a deeper knowledge of Christ through our ministry.
This week I focused on Peace with my teens and preteens. I used the story of when Jesus fed the 5,000. Most people would think, "what does that have to do with peace?" Have you ever been to a birthday party where the kids had a chance to break the pinata? Sure, they may want to pound on the thing, but their main motivation is to get the candy. As soon as it breaks, there is absolute CHAOS! :) Children screaming, grabbing, kicking.....OK, there are also adults involved in things of this nature as well. Go to a sporting event, and watch a home run ball fly into the stands and see what happens, or go shopping the day after Thanksgiving....I think you get the point.
God is not the author of confusion! God provided for over 5,000 people through meeting a basic need. Had he not, it could have been absolute chaos. The example I used with each of the groups was based on this idea. I told the teens/preteens that I had a few candy bars but not enough for everybody. I threw them on the table, and they did exactly what I expected them to; they did whatever they had to do to get a candy bar. While I was making the point of peace, I asked them if there was anything peaceful about what happened when I put the candy bars on the table. The obvious answer was no and that began a very good discussion.
One fruit or characteristic that the Holy Spirit produces in the life of a Christian is peace. When we are around other people, can they see peace through our lives or do we create chaos through gossip, back-biting, or whatever else it is that we seem to be very well known for? Do we bring peace to already chaotic situations or does the chaos overtake us?Unfortunately, peace is not something that people often see in the lives of Christians.
When I think about chaos I have seen created by Christians, I think of protesters outside of building or in the streets, who claim to be Christians, but are screaming at the very people that we are commanded to love, people who may never know the love of Christ because the Christians who claim to be passionate followers allowed their passions to turn into hatred when they took Christ out of the picture. That may seem confusing but think about issues such as homosexuality, eating disorders, cutting, abortions, and addictions just to name a few. (Yes, I realize I may catch flack from this but so did Christ as He spoke truth even though it was not popular.)
I have seen so many pictures, video clips, read articles, blogs, heard people and so forth that communicate everything but love towards these types of issues. I will be very clear and say that yes, these are sins, but so is lying, cheating on your spouse, stealing, using the Lord's name in vain, over-eating, etc..... The list goes on and will because we are not perfect.
Looking at the idea of peace, we should definitely be the ones who are peacefully speaking truth without using Truth (the Bible) to mask rage or hatred for the sin in another person's life. We are very quick to point out the flaws of others without looking at ourselves and realizing that we could just as easily be in the same situation. It's only by God's grace that we are who we are. So why not allow the Holy Spirit to produce peace in our lives so that others will come to know the love of our Father?
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS, and SELF-Control. There is NO law against these things!" -Galatians 5:22-23
"....What is important is faith expressing itself in love." -Galatians 5:6
Friday, January 23, 2009
End of Week 3
Thank goodness for 1/2 day Friday's! I love my job, but I love being off after 12pm on Friday's.
This week was fantastic! Granted, I need to catch up on some sleep but this week was great.
We had about the same number of kids, preteens, and teens so that is good. Also, we were able to provide our homebounds with heaters. We have 13 homebounds (people who are not able to get out of their houses) and the temperature has been fluctuating with some colder temperatures that I hear are not too common for Houston.
The kids always remind me of what is important. They just want to love on you and be loved. The 4-6 year old group always tends to turn the jump rope into tug-o-war or a snake :) while the 7-10 year old girls always end up showing up the boys with their ability to never stop the rope when they jump rope.
We had 10 pre-teens again this week and they all said they would try to invite their friends. This doesn't seem like a big deal, but the number for pre-teens had fallen to 4 before Christmas break. :) We played an extremely intense game of Uno Attack, and then ended up playing a variation of freeze tag called Toilet Freeze Tag. Don't worry, it's not as bad as it may sound! If a person gets tagged, they have to act as though they are a toilet with their "handle" up so that those who have not been tagged can "flush" them/unfreeze them. :)
Moving onto the teens- it was one of the highlights of the week. The teens actually talked during Bible study. This is always a tough age group because many assume there's nothing else they could possibly learn ;) and their reputation is everything. This normally makes it difficult to get feedback because they are worried about what the other teens will think about them. It's also an interesting dynamic because we have 8 boys and 1 girl. Talk about pressure! They were great, and definitely participated more than I had expected. The bible study for the teens and preteens was about faithfulness because we are going to cover the 9 fruits of the spirit from Galatians over the next several weeks. I used the story of the master who went away on a long trip and entrusted the 3 different amounts of silver to his servants. If you want to read up on it, you can find it beginning with Matthew 25:14. I used the example of gangs and how they operate. They understand this well because of what they experience each day. I focused on the loyalty that is required from a gang member. One of the teens in particular identified with this example and began a discussion which the other teens joined in on.
It was awesome to see them discuss some of the issues they face. I can't wait for next week! :)
My Spanish is slowly getting better! Praise God! In the mornings, I have been in charge of clothing distribution which gives me many opportunities to talk to the individuals who come in need of clothing.
On another note, this morning during staff meeting we came up with our theme for the year for the Mission Centers of Houston. It was a long process but everybody amazingly came to an agreement, and we are all very excited about it. I will update you later on what the theme is because I'm not sure if we can give out that information yet. :)
Thanks again to everyone who reads this blog, and thanks to everyone who is continuing to support me through prayer, encouragement, and giving. I do not like bringing up the subject of money, but it is a necessary part of ministry. A few of you have been able to give financially and others have been staying in contact and being faithful in praying for me. It is a huge encouragement!! I can't say it enough! Please continue supporting and consider giving. I know things are tough right now and everyone is feeling the crunch because of the economy but please remain faithful if God has blessed you with the means to give. I look forward to hearing from you all in the upcoming weeks and eager to share stories of how God is impacting the inner-city of Houston!
“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!"
Matthew 25:23
This week was fantastic! Granted, I need to catch up on some sleep but this week was great.
We had about the same number of kids, preteens, and teens so that is good. Also, we were able to provide our homebounds with heaters. We have 13 homebounds (people who are not able to get out of their houses) and the temperature has been fluctuating with some colder temperatures that I hear are not too common for Houston.
The kids always remind me of what is important. They just want to love on you and be loved. The 4-6 year old group always tends to turn the jump rope into tug-o-war or a snake :) while the 7-10 year old girls always end up showing up the boys with their ability to never stop the rope when they jump rope.
We had 10 pre-teens again this week and they all said they would try to invite their friends. This doesn't seem like a big deal, but the number for pre-teens had fallen to 4 before Christmas break. :) We played an extremely intense game of Uno Attack, and then ended up playing a variation of freeze tag called Toilet Freeze Tag. Don't worry, it's not as bad as it may sound! If a person gets tagged, they have to act as though they are a toilet with their "handle" up so that those who have not been tagged can "flush" them/unfreeze them. :)
Moving onto the teens- it was one of the highlights of the week. The teens actually talked during Bible study. This is always a tough age group because many assume there's nothing else they could possibly learn ;) and their reputation is everything. This normally makes it difficult to get feedback because they are worried about what the other teens will think about them. It's also an interesting dynamic because we have 8 boys and 1 girl. Talk about pressure! They were great, and definitely participated more than I had expected. The bible study for the teens and preteens was about faithfulness because we are going to cover the 9 fruits of the spirit from Galatians over the next several weeks. I used the story of the master who went away on a long trip and entrusted the 3 different amounts of silver to his servants. If you want to read up on it, you can find it beginning with Matthew 25:14. I used the example of gangs and how they operate. They understand this well because of what they experience each day. I focused on the loyalty that is required from a gang member. One of the teens in particular identified with this example and began a discussion which the other teens joined in on.
It was awesome to see them discuss some of the issues they face. I can't wait for next week! :)
My Spanish is slowly getting better! Praise God! In the mornings, I have been in charge of clothing distribution which gives me many opportunities to talk to the individuals who come in need of clothing.
On another note, this morning during staff meeting we came up with our theme for the year for the Mission Centers of Houston. It was a long process but everybody amazingly came to an agreement, and we are all very excited about it. I will update you later on what the theme is because I'm not sure if we can give out that information yet. :)
Thanks again to everyone who reads this blog, and thanks to everyone who is continuing to support me through prayer, encouragement, and giving. I do not like bringing up the subject of money, but it is a necessary part of ministry. A few of you have been able to give financially and others have been staying in contact and being faithful in praying for me. It is a huge encouragement!! I can't say it enough! Please continue supporting and consider giving. I know things are tough right now and everyone is feeling the crunch because of the economy but please remain faithful if God has blessed you with the means to give. I look forward to hearing from you all in the upcoming weeks and eager to share stories of how God is impacting the inner-city of Houston!
“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!"
Matthew 25:23
Monday, January 19, 2009
Wow, what an ending! (Week 2)
Thank you for your patience!!! I was going to update on Saturday, but things didn't quite work out the way I had planned. Long story short, I ended up in the ER Saturday afternoon. I'm doing much better now! Thank God! Turns out the extreme pain I was having came from an ulcer I apparently have. They gave me 2 prescriptions and I am supposed to stick to a specific diet, and all should be well in 8-12 weeks.
As I processed this whole situation, I realized that this was a serious wake up call. Most of you who know me know that I don't have a terrible diet, and I try to stick to healthier foods. At the same time, I developed this ulcer. I think there is definitely something to be learned from all of this. On the health side of things, there is a quote that I heard a few years ago in a class at FMU (thanks J.M.), "Ignore your health, and it will go away." This is very true!!
On the other hand, in life what implications does this same concept have. I have thought about it a pretty good bit, and in regards to our talents, abilities, strengths, etc. If we ignore the things we are gifted in, or the things we know we are capable of learning, or even those people we always mean to call but always seem to forget, we will lose them.
I was reading an article the other day about natural talent vs practiced skills and natural talent came in last if there was no practice. There are many things that I would like to be good at, then there are things that I am naturally drawn to.....but why do I often want to be known for those things which I only dream of being good at and ignore those things which I have been gifted in?
"We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised for the fifteen which we do possess."- Mark Twain's Autobiography; More Maxims of Mark, Johnson, 1927
I know that was a bit off topic from my other blogs but it was on my mind.
On this same note, I hope to definitely start working on some of this and start putting to practice the things I was given, in order to accomplish the things I was made to do. When other opportunities come along I will welcome them, but I hope to move away from always seeking after things which draw me away from my God-given talents and abilities, and embracing my untapped potential.
Ponder this quote:
"Disturb us, O Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves; when our dreams come true only because we have dreamed too little; when we arrive safely only because we have sailed too close to the shore; when with the abundance of things we are losing our thirst for more of You; or when we lose our thirst for more of You because of the hopelessness we face."
- Sir Francis Drake
I will update again in a few days. :)
As I processed this whole situation, I realized that this was a serious wake up call. Most of you who know me know that I don't have a terrible diet, and I try to stick to healthier foods. At the same time, I developed this ulcer. I think there is definitely something to be learned from all of this. On the health side of things, there is a quote that I heard a few years ago in a class at FMU (thanks J.M.), "Ignore your health, and it will go away." This is very true!!
On the other hand, in life what implications does this same concept have. I have thought about it a pretty good bit, and in regards to our talents, abilities, strengths, etc. If we ignore the things we are gifted in, or the things we know we are capable of learning, or even those people we always mean to call but always seem to forget, we will lose them.
I was reading an article the other day about natural talent vs practiced skills and natural talent came in last if there was no practice. There are many things that I would like to be good at, then there are things that I am naturally drawn to.....but why do I often want to be known for those things which I only dream of being good at and ignore those things which I have been gifted in?
"We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised for the fifteen which we do possess."- Mark Twain's Autobiography; More Maxims of Mark, Johnson, 1927
I know that was a bit off topic from my other blogs but it was on my mind.
On this same note, I hope to definitely start working on some of this and start putting to practice the things I was given, in order to accomplish the things I was made to do. When other opportunities come along I will welcome them, but I hope to move away from always seeking after things which draw me away from my God-given talents and abilities, and embracing my untapped potential.
Ponder this quote:
"Disturb us, O Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves; when our dreams come true only because we have dreamed too little; when we arrive safely only because we have sailed too close to the shore; when with the abundance of things we are losing our thirst for more of You; or when we lose our thirst for more of You because of the hopelessness we face."
- Sir Francis Drake
I will update again in a few days. :)
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Beginning of Week 2 (first week of teaching! :))
This is just a quick overview of the past two days.
Yesterday,which was Monday we had about 30 4-6 year olds. We played games, ran around, tried to play jump rope which soon turned into tug-o-war :) Also the kids decided it would be a good idea to grab my ankles and hold on so I could pull them around....since that's what adults are for lol So I did, and at one point I thought, "Man, these kids are getting heavier and heavier" so I turned around and the two kids that had grabbed my ankles at one kid on each of their ankles which is why they were so heavy. It was hilarious. I don't know that I've ever seen anything like it before :)
Also, we had some cupcakes that a bakery sent to us (because they were about to get old) but in this area things like that are a big treat (and they tasted very good!) so that's what the kids got for snack.
Today, we had food pantry and clothing ministry. We had 42 people come through today, while about 9 were actually new. This could be viewed as a bad thing by some because they are in need of help, but it is also a great opportunity to meet the needs of people and be Christ to them in some of the roughest times.
Also, teen club was this afternoon. We had 7 teens. This number seems low, but some have the programs had been suffering a bit, which is why we are working to revamp them. Our hope is that we will have even more next time. One teen in particular, is a teen that I had the opportunity to get to know and have Bible study with, 3 years ago. He is a bit rough around the edges but has so much potential if he could just get past his pride sometimes. So I am so excited that he is coming again. He was one of the youngest teens then, and now he is one of the oldest. He has matured a great deal and I am really looking forward to encouraging him, and hopefully helping him to see that God has a bigger plan for him than what he can see right now.
Tomorrow, we are having food pantry and clothing distribution again tomorrow, and kids club 7-10 years old. This will be the first time I have taught this age group since I've been here but I have been working on some things so I can't wait!
Hope you all have a wonderful semana! (week) :)
Yesterday,which was Monday we had about 30 4-6 year olds. We played games, ran around, tried to play jump rope which soon turned into tug-o-war :) Also the kids decided it would be a good idea to grab my ankles and hold on so I could pull them around....since that's what adults are for lol So I did, and at one point I thought, "Man, these kids are getting heavier and heavier" so I turned around and the two kids that had grabbed my ankles at one kid on each of their ankles which is why they were so heavy. It was hilarious. I don't know that I've ever seen anything like it before :)
Also, we had some cupcakes that a bakery sent to us (because they were about to get old) but in this area things like that are a big treat (and they tasted very good!) so that's what the kids got for snack.
Today, we had food pantry and clothing ministry. We had 42 people come through today, while about 9 were actually new. This could be viewed as a bad thing by some because they are in need of help, but it is also a great opportunity to meet the needs of people and be Christ to them in some of the roughest times.
Also, teen club was this afternoon. We had 7 teens. This number seems low, but some have the programs had been suffering a bit, which is why we are working to revamp them. Our hope is that we will have even more next time. One teen in particular, is a teen that I had the opportunity to get to know and have Bible study with, 3 years ago. He is a bit rough around the edges but has so much potential if he could just get past his pride sometimes. So I am so excited that he is coming again. He was one of the youngest teens then, and now he is one of the oldest. He has matured a great deal and I am really looking forward to encouraging him, and hopefully helping him to see that God has a bigger plan for him than what he can see right now.
Tomorrow, we are having food pantry and clothing distribution again tomorrow, and kids club 7-10 years old. This will be the first time I have taught this age group since I've been here but I have been working on some things so I can't wait!
Hope you all have a wonderful semana! (week) :)
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Week 1
This is actually the 2nd post I have written for "Week 1". This afternoon, I typed a VERY long blog. When I posted it, it did not save correctly or something and I lost all of it, so this one will be different, but it will still be good. :)
I had a request about my first day, so I'll tell you about my first day, and some general information about what I'll be doing. Lastly, I'll list ways that you can pray for what God is doing here, and also some news about new ministries that are being developed.
Day 1:
So many emotions! I wasn't sure what to expect, because it has been almost three years since I've been here in Houston. It was awesome! I started the morning waiting on my executive director because she wanted to take me to my job site. While I waited, I helped another director, Dora, who is an amazing lady. She had about 15-20 very large boxes of frozen chicken which will be enough for 2 Thursday's when Gano Mission Center cooks dinner for the seniors. (That's a lot of people!)
After things got rolling, I went to the center where I will be working all semester; Joy Mission Center. I spent the day with my director, Tommie Mendez. Tommie is a very strong-willed 5 ft. tall Hispanic lady. Also, she is in her mid-sixties. She is great! After meeting the weekly volunteers, I started doing some paperwork. Ginger, my executive director mentioned that now we will be getting the Internet at Joy because someone will actually use it. Tommie is very much the paper and pencil type, with no idea how to use a computer. Hopefully we will be able to be more efficient when it comes to those types of things.
After lunch, its more of clean-up time and preparation for kids club. On Monday's about 30-40 4-6 years old come running in to play games, jump rope, skate, play basketball, and really have the freedom to be kids. This runs from 3:30-5pm every Monday. At about 4:30 the kids begin to settle down before Bible study time begins (3:45) Each week the kids have a lesson and are given the opportunity to be recognized and get a small prize for learning the last week's Bible verse. It is amazing how kids this young retain information. Many of the kids speak only Spanish, while others can speak both Spanish and English. This will be a challenge for me, but a welcomed one. That completed my first day of ministry at Joy Mission Center.
Each day is different. Below is a schedule of activities each week.
Monday:
Kids' Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 4-6
Tuesday:
Clothing Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Food Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Teen Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 13-17
Wednesday:
Clothing Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Food Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Kids' Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 7-9
Thursday:
Senior Adult Ministry (9:00 am - 11:30 am)
Home-bound Ministry (9:30 am - 12:00 pm)
Preteen Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 10-12
Friday:
Staff Development (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Saturday:
Group Ministry Days (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Ways you can pray:
I had a request about my first day, so I'll tell you about my first day, and some general information about what I'll be doing. Lastly, I'll list ways that you can pray for what God is doing here, and also some news about new ministries that are being developed.
Day 1:
So many emotions! I wasn't sure what to expect, because it has been almost three years since I've been here in Houston. It was awesome! I started the morning waiting on my executive director because she wanted to take me to my job site. While I waited, I helped another director, Dora, who is an amazing lady. She had about 15-20 very large boxes of frozen chicken which will be enough for 2 Thursday's when Gano Mission Center cooks dinner for the seniors. (That's a lot of people!)
After things got rolling, I went to the center where I will be working all semester; Joy Mission Center. I spent the day with my director, Tommie Mendez. Tommie is a very strong-willed 5 ft. tall Hispanic lady. Also, she is in her mid-sixties. She is great! After meeting the weekly volunteers, I started doing some paperwork. Ginger, my executive director mentioned that now we will be getting the Internet at Joy because someone will actually use it. Tommie is very much the paper and pencil type, with no idea how to use a computer. Hopefully we will be able to be more efficient when it comes to those types of things.
After lunch, its more of clean-up time and preparation for kids club. On Monday's about 30-40 4-6 years old come running in to play games, jump rope, skate, play basketball, and really have the freedom to be kids. This runs from 3:30-5pm every Monday. At about 4:30 the kids begin to settle down before Bible study time begins (3:45) Each week the kids have a lesson and are given the opportunity to be recognized and get a small prize for learning the last week's Bible verse. It is amazing how kids this young retain information. Many of the kids speak only Spanish, while others can speak both Spanish and English. This will be a challenge for me, but a welcomed one. That completed my first day of ministry at Joy Mission Center.
Each day is different. Below is a schedule of activities each week.
Monday:
Kids' Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 4-6
Tuesday:
Clothing Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Food Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Teen Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 13-17
Wednesday:
Clothing Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Food Distribution* (9:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm)
Kids' Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 7-9
Thursday:
Senior Adult Ministry (9:00 am - 11:30 am)
Home-bound Ministry (9:30 am - 12:00 pm)
Preteen Club (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm); ages 10-12
Friday:
Staff Development (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Saturday:
Group Ministry Days (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)
Ways you can pray:
- That God would sent more workers. (volunteers and interns)
- That people would continue to support, not only financially, but through volunteering their time, talent, and resources.
- That God would give guidance and wisdom to all of us so that we won't miss out on what He is trying to do through us.
- That God would do something here in Houston that could not be explained without the focus being on Christ.
New Ministries:
Young Adults Ministry: This is something Tommie has been praying about for years. This ministry will focus primarily on young women between the ages of 17 and 25 or so. Some of you may ask why we are not including young men in this. Good question!! We need strong male leaders who will work with them. Right now I will be leading the young adults ministry for young women. Without a strong male leader, the young men have no example to follow, and frankly it is extremely dangerous for females in this type of ministry because of the gang violence or the possibility of violence period. I won't go into detail about that.
I will also be exploring new ways to reach the home-bounds that we serve. These are people who are generally senior citizens, but cannot physically get out of their homes. Currently, we have about 13 who receive food and/or clothing from Joy every other week.
We have a program for seniors every Thursday. These seniors receive food and/or clothing as well. We are currently working on ways to revamp this program. Some are in the works, but we know God is not finished yet.
Thank you all for your support, and for taking the time to read this. I realized the first time I wrote about this week that I should blog more often because it is a great deal of information to remember so I will work towards blogging every few days, rather than once a week. Thanks again, this would not be possible without the encouragement of all of you.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
I'm in H-town!
After many hours of driving, I finally arrived in Houston. I knew beforehand that I was getting closer to Houston because of the many billboards and advertisements which were in Spanish. It is hard to believe that I am back in Houston. Don't get me wrong, God is doing amazing things here and all of the people here are wonderful, but I had no idea even a few months ago, that this is what God was up to. I can't wait to see what God is going to do through each of us who are here. I'm certain that it will be "more than we could ask for or imagine." I am extremely excited!! I start Monday, January 5th.
Please continue praying! It is vital! Please pray specifically for unity between each of us as new staff members come so that God can use us in any way He sees fit. Thanks to everyone who called over the holidays and on the trip here. Also, thank you to those who have already committed to supporting me in the ministry here through letters, emails, phone calls, as well as financially.
My roommate, Delana, will arrive January 7th so please also be in prayer for her safety as she travels as well as for a smooth transition here.
I know this is very brief and scattered; I apologize. As soon as I arrived I started unloading everything and tried arranging some of it, and then I started writing this blog. I am exhausted.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and I hope everyone has a fabulous new year.
Side note: Delana and I decided that our theme verse for the next four months will be John 3:30: "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less."
If God is not the one leading the ministry here, and everything we do from day to day then it will all be in vain. My prayer is that our constant focus would be to allow God to been seen in us in everything we do so that God will receive the glory from it all, and not us as we become less and less.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I will be posting regularly so please check back often.
Please continue praying! It is vital! Please pray specifically for unity between each of us as new staff members come so that God can use us in any way He sees fit. Thanks to everyone who called over the holidays and on the trip here. Also, thank you to those who have already committed to supporting me in the ministry here through letters, emails, phone calls, as well as financially.
My roommate, Delana, will arrive January 7th so please also be in prayer for her safety as she travels as well as for a smooth transition here.
I know this is very brief and scattered; I apologize. As soon as I arrived I started unloading everything and tried arranging some of it, and then I started writing this blog. I am exhausted.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and I hope everyone has a fabulous new year.
Side note: Delana and I decided that our theme verse for the next four months will be John 3:30: "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less."
If God is not the one leading the ministry here, and everything we do from day to day then it will all be in vain. My prayer is that our constant focus would be to allow God to been seen in us in everything we do so that God will receive the glory from it all, and not us as we become less and less.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I will be posting regularly so please check back often.
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