Scott's Journey

A Consistent Reflection Needed on my Part!

2011-02-08T01:16:00.000+08:00

“My observation of Christendom is that most of us tend to base our relationship with God on our performance instead of on His grace. If we’ve performed well—whatever ‘well’ is in our opinion—then we expect God to bless us. If we haven’t done so well, our expectations are reduced accordingly. In this sense, we live by works, rather than by grace. We are saved by grace, but we are living by the

Grace and More Grace

2011-01-19T05:18:00.000+08:00

“You must know that Christ is the end of the law (Romans 10:4). Therefore, diligently strive to know the commands of the law—but not so that you can gain your salvation by your own good works as you try to keep these commands. Rather, know God’s commands so you will become aware of your inability to keep them…Once you are a Christian, you will continue to run to Christ for the strength to keep

Grace Again

2011-01-11T00:48:00.000+08:00

“While I regarded God as a tyrant I thought my sin a trifle; But when I knew Him to be my Father, then I mourned that I could ever have kicked against Him. When I thought God was hard, I found it easy to sin; but when I found God so kind, so good, so overflowing with compassion, I smote upon my breast to think that I could ever have rebelled against One who loved me so, and sought my good.” C.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-31T21:53:00.000+08:00

Wyatt has wanted James for so long Priceless! Oh boy my own Thomas, now I don't have to play with Wyatt's Lindsey is an incredible photographer - my favorite - "Granna, you see this train, it's mine!" "No you can't play with it - it's mine, all mine." "Let me pay with these animals of Wyatt's while he's not looking!" Aww Cinderella, I love Cinderella! He is so cute

Gifts from Aunt Betsy and Aunt Marsha

2010-12-29T22:03:00.000+08:00

"These things are kinda scratchy" He loves putting things in and out of boxes and jars. My very own camo shirt and it's a Princess shirt! Yeah hunting pants!

Wyatt's Birthday

2010-12-20T22:33:00.000+08:00

Beauty that Brings a Smile

2010-12-16T03:25:00.000+08:00

My Sisters sent this incredibly beautiful azalea when Steven's Dad died recently and we are certainly enjoying it! The blooms are light pink tipped in a darker pink. Lindsey comments also everyday how much she likes it! Thanks Betsy and Marsha!!

Thanksgiving Tradition - Gingerbread House but this Year - Gingerbread Train!

2010-12-15T23:05:00.000+08:00

The Little Man Loves Blankets on the Floor and No I Couldn't Wait Till Christmas

2010-12-15T23:02:00.000+08:00

Wyatt and His Quilt, Notice the TrainTrack Stitching

2010-12-15T22:53:00.000+08:00

Raney and Her Princess Quilt

2010-12-14T22:25:00.000+08:00

Singing the Song of Grace

2010-10-20T00:39:00.000+08:00

“In believing prayer, we learn to connect our present troubles to the good and perfect will of God. We refuse to believe that chance rules our lives. We withstand the temptation to imagine that God is capricious or malicious. We know he has a higher purpose and that he is not dealing with us as our sins deserve. As we bring our troubles to Jesus in prayer—asking his will to be done—we approve

1st Week of September, A Week to Remember

2010-09-06T02:29:00.000+08:00

This week was one to remember! We started September out with a bang! The sidewalks here aren't quite like the sidewalks in our country. They are all raised and quite rough. I do watch where I am going BUT on Tuesday I tripped while walking and fell head long into a wall. That wall stopped me cold, result, a concussion and headache for 4 hours. Praise the Lord that it didn't knock me out or cut my

Inadequacy

2010-08-31T00:50:00.001+08:00

“For years I hid the inadequacy I felt as a counselor behind a professional demeanor, technical jargon, and sound psychological methods of treatment. Recently I’ve made a truly liberating discovery. I am inadequate. My sense of inadequacy is not the effect of deficient intellect or poor training, nor is it a symptom of emotional disorder. It is the painful admission of what is true. On my

An Adventure in Mexico

2010-08-06T03:58:00.001+08:00

Today was so much fun! We traveled about 1 1/2 hours south from our home to a small town surrounded by mountains to visit a new mercy ministry. Chuey is Mexican and has a heart for at risk children and is living his dream. He has returned to his home town of 600-700 people where he and his wife are opening/building a foster home for street children. His parents still live in this same town. It's

Christian School & Dental Ministry in Guadalajara

2010-08-04T01:02:00.002+08:00

The church where about 70 people worship This morning was delightful!! We visited am MTW ministry about 30 minutes from our home. While it's a small place in a small town, God is at work!! They have a dental ministry, a Christian school with 67 children from age 3 to 5th grade and a church. The parents pay only $1.50 per week for their child to attend this school. A team was visiting from New

Acapulco

2010-08-04T00:42:00.000+08:00

While Acapulco was DEFINITELY different than we expected it is a beautiful place. There is a small land mass with tons of people (in need of the gospel). We returned home some what confused and are resting in the truth that God will in His time show us where we are to live and minister for His glory!

More Saturday Morning Sights

2010-05-23T06:24:00.000+08:00

Just more interesting Saturday sights. I love walking and exploring the city!! The hospital (note the red cross sign) is where Steven had his surgery. Hope you had a great Saturday morning too!!

Sights on Saturday Morning Walk

2010-05-23T06:11:00.000+08:00

This is one of my favorite sights in Mexico thus far. This trellis/archway is really old, remember the city is 400 years old and it is absolutely beautiful! It's not too far from our house and we pass it, actually go under it every day on the way to and from school. Notice Steven in one of the pictures which tells you how high it is.

A Bit of Encouragment

2010-05-18T00:00:00.000+08:00

Even the pious person cannot by his own strength desire the glory of heaven as ardently as he would. Therefore the Spirit intercedes for us with ineffable groanings of which we are ourselves incapable….It is not an evil sign, but indeed the very best, if upon our petitions the very opposite happens to us. Conversely, it is not a good sign if everything is granted to us for which we pray….He so

2 Things that Made/Make Me SMILE!

2010-05-07T01:22:00.005+08:00

Those of you who know me know I AM NOT A collector of "stuff". However, I am still smiling today with our "finds" from yesterday! Aren't these glasses precious? Of course the fuchsia one is my favorite but they are truly making me smile! AND we were using the bedspread for our bed that was here when we arrived. Yesterday we found this YUMMY chocolate down looking comforter. I came home Praising

Oh That God Would Grant Us the Grace to Stop Laboring!

2010-04-20T00:27:00.000+08:00

“This mystery [Gospel sanctification] is so great, that, notwithstanding all the light of the Gospel, we commonly think that we must get a holy frame by producing it anew in ourselves, and by forming and working it out of our own hearts. Therefore many that are seriously devout, take a great deal of pains to mortify their corrupt nature, and beget a holy frame of heart in themselves, by striving

More Wordless Saturday

2010-04-11T01:48:00.000+08:00

Wordless Saturday

2010-04-11T01:31:00.000+08:00

I love Hexagon Flowers!!

2010-04-08T09:14:00.000+08:00

This is a bit of a miscellaneous post but I'm dying to share a few things!! Steven's surgery went really well. We continue to Praise the Lord for His provisions for all of our needs. The surgeon said he was in much danger from the hernia rupturing, more cause for praise! We went yesterday for the Doctor to look at it and all is well. We go on Monday to have the stitches taken out, thank you so

An Awesome Testimony

2010-03-31T08:16:00.002+08:00

As many of you know, Steven worked for 9 1/2 years at Belhaven College in the Admissions Office. He was simply incredible in this position. God really used him much in the lives of many students. Yesterday he received the nicest note from one of the students and while he will probably kill me I wanted to share it with you. I left off the student's name because well, it's kinda personal. "I dont

School Field Trip to Teuchitlan & Hacienda "El Carmen"

2010-03-29T06:02:00.000+08:00

On Thursday we took a field trip to view Teuchitlan & Hacienda "El Carmen". It was about 1 1/2 hour bus ride from the University. The Hacienda was over 400 years old and was captured during the revolution by the Spanish and is now a hotel run by the Mexicans. It is very quite, with a Spa and a small putting green. The architecture was incredible as were the grounds. Teuchitlan contains restored

Our Address

2010-03-13T08:05:00.000+08:00

Several have asked for our mailing address for cards, letters and mail in envelopes. It takes about 3 weeks but if you are interested here you go: Deborah and Steven Scott Calle Nelson 308 No. 5 Fraccionamiento Terranova Guadalajara, Jalisco Mexico 44690

Downtown Guadalajara

2010-03-07T10:35:00.000+08:00

Check out the rainbow that Steven caught in this fountain. This afternoon we went downtown with some of our classmates. This city is over 400 years old so it has lots of neat history! Below are some of our classmates. Xavier is on the left and he is from France. Carlos is next in the maroon jacket and he is from Korea. Then there's Winnie and she is from China. Xavier's finance went with us and

Food for Thought

2010-03-03T04:22:00.000+08:00

“Men who are not secure in Christ cast about for spiritual life preservers with which to support their confidence, and in their frantic search they not only cling to the shreds of ability and righteousness they find in themselves, but they fix upon their race, their membership in a part, their familiar social and ecclesiastical patterns and the culture as a means of self-recommendation. The

Flowers Make Me Smile

2010-03-01T01:02:00.000+08:00

My sweet husband bought me a hot pink geranium yesterday. The pictures don't do it justice. It makes me smile alot!! And notice the cute brown pot!!

Class Cultural Trip to Tequila, Mexico

2010-02-28T23:59:00.000+08:00

Tequila is the main export of Mexico. They use a different kind of pineapple (pina) to make it. Raw it tastes like a potato and has the same consistency. They cook it and then it is sweet but not chewable, you just use your teeth to pull out the sweet juice. Or they grind the cooked pina to extract the sweet juice for tequila. It was very interesting to see how they make it.A beautiful Catholic

Steven's Birthday Celebration

2010-02-28T23:43:00.000+08:00

We stayed with Pedro and Carmina 4 days upon our arrival and made friends. They were exceptional hosts! They have one married daughter, (Priscilla in salmon colored sweater) and 2 Granddaughters and one Grandson who was watching television.And they loved playing Mexican dominos! We Praise the Lord for bringing this family into our lives. They have been and incredible wealth of information as they

Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara

2010-02-28T23:23:00.000+08:00

Enthusiastic student! Our classroom is in this building

Strolling in Mexico

2010-02-07T04:14:00.001+08:00

Just dropping by to recount our latest adventures. Our hearts are Praising the Lord for the sunshine and also our gifts of adventure! Most of this week has been somewhat rainy and cold. Apparently both are very unusual especially since it's not rainy season. It's gotten down to 31 degrees at night but we can control the temperature well with our sunny windows since we have no heater.

Mexican Treasures

2010-02-04T00:56:00.000+08:00

Thought I would share with you my treasures that I bought at Telaqepaque on Saturday. I didn't bring many things for decorating with me so when I saw these I knew they would brighten up our home and I liked the Mexican feel. Isn't the tortilla basket quite cute? I haven't used it yet but supposedly you just warm up the tortillas and put them in the basket and they stay warm. The inside of it

2 in One Day!!

2010-02-02T08:52:00.000+08:00

Finally today we had a down day where we didn't have to run all over the city tying to find measuring cups etc. (which by the way I still haven't found). Steven got the cable hooked up by a guy in the church which was a blessing. And they even helped to move some of the furniture around in the bedrooms. The one without the bed will be our office and my quilting room. I must confess that I

Home in Guadalajara, Mexico

2010-02-02T05:37:00.001+08:00

Guadalajara Mexico

2010-02-02T05:17:00.001+08:00

Our hearts are praising the Lord that we have been able to feel His presence with us, to see His provisions for us and to see His answers to many prayers! We left Jackson, MS early Friday morning, January 22nd with 10 pieces of luggage. Even though we had weighed them to make sure they were within the weight limit, the check in person did not even pause to weigh our luggage. When we arrived in

Graced Again

2010-01-19T02:34:00.003+08:00

“I guess we should call this gospel brokenness, because only the gospel of God’s grace can enable us to be completely honest about our stuff without falling into toxic shame or self-contempt. And only the gospel can humble us, soften us, and give us the power to repent—or, at least, not run away or rant. When followers of Jesus walk openly in this kind of brokenness—gospel brokenness—angels in

Christmas 2009

2009-12-31T06:57:00.000+08:00

What a gift from God to be home this Christmas with our children!! We had a grand time!!

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father

2009-12-30T06:38:00.001+08:00

As this year draws to a close, I was just reminded how much I need a wise Counselor, a strong arm fighting for me and a Father's love forever. I praise Him that His love isn't based on anything I do or don't do. And I stand amazed that He loves me, one whose heart is indeed desperately wicked. Take a few minutes and listen to this incredibly encouraging message - http://www.sevenrivers.org/

Graced Again

2009-12-29T02:34:00.004+08:00

“The crucial significance of the cradle at Bethlehem lies in its place in the sequence of steps down that led the Son of God to the cross of Calvary, and we do not understand it till we see it in this context. The key text in the New Testament for interpreting the incarnation is not therefore, the bare statement…‘the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us’, but rather the more comprehensive

More Thanksgiving Pictures

2009-12-08T04:38:00.000+08:00

For more incredible Thanksgiving pictures visit the "professionals" blog site. Lindsey captured the day beautifully! http://linzphotography7.blogspot.com/

Thanksgiving Gingerbread Houses

2009-12-05T10:00:00.003+08:00

We had a glorious time with the family on Thanksgiving. Last year we made 1 gingerbread house and we used a kit. The kids had such a good time that this time Steven and I made the gingerbread so more people could make houses. And all the kids enjoyed it this year!! The above picture is Chad and Kelly's retirement cottage. Kelly helped build the structure and Chad decorated it.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T10:38:00.000+08:00

I am so excited about Thanksgiving! First it's incredible to be here to enjoy it with my family. Second, as every year rolls around we realize more and more how much we have to be thankful for. And third, we're making gingerbread houses again this year and I just can't wait! The last time I bought a kit but this time Steven and I are going to make the gingerbread ourselves so that everyone can

Check This Out

2009-11-21T23:46:00.000+08:00

Hey check out Lindsey's pictures of our new Grandson Holden and also some pictures of Chad and his family. Lindsey has an incredible gift of photography. Thanks Linz for capturing some priceless memories!! http://linzphotography7.blogspot.com/

Immanuel

2009-11-20T23:15:00.006+08:00

Times flying and I am beginning to feel a bit pressured. I have begun to sort through things, clothes will I need in Mexico since it's not just hot there all the time.What should we take with us? We are busy studying spanish with Rosetta Stone. And God has been preparing my heart to leave and follow His calling. I Praise Him that He doesn't just call but He is the One that makes it possible for

Unfailing Love

2009-11-11T22:26:00.001+08:00

I wish I would live with You in view; Eyes to Your glory Ears for Your wisdom Heart for Your grace. But I live with me in view. Eyes to my kingdom Ears for my opinion Heart captured by my will. I know I was made for You, I know that Hope Meaning Purpose Identity My agenda for every day, Is to be found in You. But I want my own kingdom I love my own glory I define my own meaning I delight in my

More Baby Holden Pictures

2009-10-30T00:49:00.000+08:00

New Grandbaby

2009-10-27T21:25:00.001+08:00

We are PRAISING the Lord for allowing us to be in country for the birth of Holden! Granna and Papa were even able to hold him shortly after his birth! He weighed 8 lbs and 9 ounces and was 21 1/2 inches long. Wyatt is showing him some of his toys.

A Photographer in the Family

2009-10-24T20:34:00.004+08:00

Our daughter is an amazing photographer!! It has been so much fun to see God develop her gifts and talents and He has definitely blessed her in this area. The result is that I don't take many pictures of our Grandchildren cause she does it all so beautifully! Recently we took them to the park and had a blast. It was their Mother (Kelly's) birthday and we were trying to give her a bit of a

Righteousness

2009-10-20T02:17:00.000+08:00

“Do we do nothing at all for obtaining this righteousness? I answer, Nothing at all. For this is perfect righteousness, to do nothing, to hear nothing, to know nothing of the law or of works, but to know and believe this only, that Christ is gone to the Father…not as judge, but made unto us…righteousness, holiness, redemption…that He is our high priest entreating for us, and reigning over us and

Full and Overflowing

2009-10-17T04:50:00.011+08:00

This afternoon my heart is full and overflowing with PRAISE to the Lord!! We just returned from a trip to Texas. We visited a new church (Christ Church) for the first time and we were blessed immensely. We met some neat new friends (Stella, Gerry, Lee, Pastor Carroll and renewed acquaintances with Pastor Fred and Deb and their family. We had a marvelous time meeting people and sharing God's

Good Reminder for Myself

2009-09-01T00:27:00.000+08:00

“We comfort the afflicted sinner in this manner; Brother you can never be perfect in this life, but you can be holy. He will say, ‘How can I be holy when I feel my sins?’ I answer, ‘You feel sin? That is a good sign. To realize that one is ill is a step and a very necessary step, toward recovery.’ ‘But how will I get rid of my sin?’ he will ask. I answer: See the heavenly Physician, Christ,

WOW 2 Posts in 1 Day!!

2009-08-26T02:15:00.003+08:00

I am in love with Travis Cottrell!! He has an amazing voice - was studying to be an opera singer when the Lord changed the direction of his life. His music speaks to my soul often and says what I wish I could say. Linz and I were able to worship with him one Friday night and it was an amazing time of worship!!Anyway, one of his songs - You Came reminded me of why my life is not my own. Here's

Who Is In Control of My Life?

2009-08-26T01:51:00.005+08:00

"The desire to be God rather than to serve God lies at the bottom of every sin that anyone has ever committed. Sin is rooted in my unwillingness to find joy in living my life under the authority of, and for the glory of Another. Sin is rooted in my desire to live for me. It's driven by my propensity to indulge my every feeling, satisfy my every desire, and meet my every need." Whiter Than Snow -

Something to Ponder

2009-08-12T09:36:00.002+08:00

Religion is, ‘I obey, therefore I’m accepted’. The Gospel is, ‘I’m accepted through what Jesus Christ has done for me, therefore I obey’. Religion gives you control, that’s why its so popular…If I am saved by what I can do, then there’s a limit to what God can ask of me. I still have some control. But if I am saved by sheer grace, then there’s nothing He cannot ask of me”. Tim Keller

I Jumped Off the Cliff Friday July 17, 2009

2009-07-21T22:47:00.004+08:00

As many of you know I have been reading the Prodigal God by Tim Keller. It is a must read and has really changed my life like no other book. I've always known that I am a Martha but God has shown me through this book more of the why and reason that I live as a Martha. I grew up with a perfectionist Dad who ruled by fear. If you didn't sweep out the carport correctly then you had to do it

Scotts July 2009 Update

2009-07-09T03:04:00.001+08:00

“See, I have called by name Bezalel, and have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability, intelligence and knowledge…..that they may make all that I have commanded you.” Exodus 31:3,6 As we feel that time is drawing closer for us to go to Mexico, we are reminded of our need of God and His grace to fulfill His calling through us for His glory. So, may we share some

Future Deer Hunter - Isn't He Adorable?

2009-07-08T07:07:00.006+08:00

Firehouse Visit

2009-07-03T08:45:00.015+08:00

What fun we had visiting the firehouse to see the fire trucks with our Grandchildren!! The Firemen were so nice and took much time with our special little ones. And it was so interesting!! It's definitely a calling and one which requires much sacrifice! This 4th of July here's a special "thank you" to all the firemen in our country!

Raney's 2nd Birthday

2009-07-03T08:35:00.009+08:00

We are always so thankful for special occasions to be here with our Grandchildren and children. We had a grand time for Raney's #2 birthday!

One Way I See God

2009-06-29T06:23:00.009+08:00

During a great seminar which I attended, we were asked to think of ways which we could visibly see and feel God’s presence. It only took me a second to realize for me, it is birds. My favorites are blue jays, cardinals and blue birds. Lindsey has a blue birdhouse and yesterday she spotted some baby blue birds in the house. I have been watching for quite some time the birds building a nest

Mexico Bound

2009-06-17T10:52:00.003+08:00

Thank you for praying for our time in Florida with Andrew Lamb, Ann his wife and their 4 boys. It was an incredible time of fellowship, getting to know Andrew and Ann better and enjoying their boys as well. What a privilege to enter into their family life for 3 days and to enjoy Ann’s definite gift of hospitality. God granted us safe travel and allowed us to get all of our

An Amazing Bath in Grace

2009-06-17T01:21:00.005+08:00

When:I continue to pull myself up by my bootstraps, to add inches to my spiritual statureI huff and puff to impress GodI thrash around trying to fix myselfI am focused on bad choices and failed dreamsI compare myself to others to bolster my righteousnessI am judgmental and critical of othersI don't want to see my imperfect existenceI deny my sins and deceive myself, all the time lying to myselfI

My Heart

2009-06-10T23:33:00.012+08:00

Romans 7"I am a mass of contradictions; I don't want to be but I am.I preach a gospel of peace, but my life isn't always driven by peace.I talk about a Jesus who alone can fully satisfy the soul, but I am often not satisfied.I celebrate a theology of amazing grace, but I often react in ungrace.And if I rest in God's control, why do I seek it for myself?Even in moments when I think I am prepared,

On the Road Again

2009-05-31T00:10:00.006+08:00

Sorry it's been awhile since I have posted anything. This month has been a delightful time of refreshing myself in the Lord. I am so thankful for time to sit and watch the birds, look at the flowers and just enjoy God and His creation. It's been a blessing to have time to read, reflect, process and seek the Lord. By the way, have you read the book PRODIGAL GOD by Tim

Cold,Dill Pickles, Bathtub and Hot Water

2009-04-27T07:13:00.003+08:00

Thanks to all of you who prayed us home safely. We left the Philippines at 9:00 Friday morning and arrived in Mississippi Friday evening, 22 hours later! We are so thankful for God's provision of safety and also His help with our making our connecting flight in Japan!Brrrr this central air conditioning is cold!! While it is warm here in Mississippi, guess it's going to take us a bit to adjust.

Roaches on Steroids

2009-04-17T16:07:00.004+08:00

We certainly have our fair share of roaches in Mississippi but this week I have been thinking of my best friend Bess who HATES roaches. The roaches here are pretty good size, most of then 2 - 3 inches. Steven always says they are on steroids because once a week a man comes by the house and sprays bug killer in all of the drains. Steven's theory is that the roaches here eat that stuff and it

A Precious Grandson Story

2009-04-15T16:43:00.004+08:00

Last week we were talking to our Grandchildren via skype. As you know we have 2 precious Grandchildren, Wyatt (3 years old) and Raney (22 months old) and another one due in November. Anyway, we were talking to them about our coming home. We asked Wyatt if he was going to come to the airport to pick us up. He has an amazing imagination and preceded to come up with a solution. He asked why

Street Outreach to Jolly Cruz

2009-04-14T14:56:00.015+08:00

Pastor Topher went with Steven and I to check on Jolly Cruz. Jolly (for those of you who have not heard about him) was in our home for boys (ABP2) when Lindsey came in 2002. When we all arrived in 2005 Jolly was still in ABP2. He was always one of Lindsey's favorites. Shortly after we arrived Jolly returned to the streets. Unfortunately he is addicted to Rugby (the glue used to glue the

Pastor Larry and His Family

2009-04-10T15:32:00.011+08:00

On the way to Larry's home we passed a parade. Right above the man's head is the saint that they are carrying. There were a whole line of them in the parade.One of my favorite places in Philippines. It's a beautiful deep river. They are working on the bridge so I had to take it from the car window. Pastor Larry has 8 children. His wife's older brother died this morning and so Emily and the

Easter in a Different Culture

2009-04-09T16:12:00.003+08:00

Many of you have heard us speak of the many superstitions in the Philippines, some left from the Spaniards many years ago. Today is Maundy Thursday. As Steven and I were walking today, many vans and cars loaded for travel passed us. When I went to the store for a few things this morning, the traffic was already light and there were very few people in the store. And I was shocked to notice that

My Prized Rights

2009-04-06T16:06:00.006+08:00

For it has been granted to me that for the sake of Christ I should not only believe in Him but also suffer for His sake. Philippians 1:29 Christ offers me the inestimable privilege of sharing with Him in some little measure; in the edge of the fellowship of His sufferings. AND it's not a waste but God wants to transform my life from an ugly useless branch to an arrow, a tool useable in His

Scotts March 2009 Update

2009-04-03T13:22:00.002+08:00

Dear Supporters:Life has been busy here and I (Deborah) have had back problems so sitting at the computer has been challenging. Please pray that God would heal my back.Steven has been working to close out the bookkeeping. The current bookkeeping system will end April 30 and the Ministry Directors will begin using a different method of bookkeeping (much simpler) May 1. The office has been moved

The Love of God

2009-03-25T19:22:00.002+08:00

I have been reading "Lies that Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Summer, a precious friend of mine told me it was a must read for all women and I would agree with her. It has been very helpful in pointing out lies that I have grown to believe over time and the truth that should rule in my life. I wanted to share a quick quote from this book that I am still

There is a Season for Every Activity under Heaven

2009-03-18T12:05:00.002+08:00

"We don't control the seasons; they happen to us. Winter, spring, summer and fall come to us whether we like it or not. Their rhythms teach us about our spiritual lives and the ways f God. Consider the following description on the paradox of death and rebirth in nature and in our lives.'Autumn is a season of great beauty, but it is also a season of decline: the days grow shorter, the light is

Precious Boys from ABP3

2009-03-14T12:38:00.020+08:00

Marlon on the left and JayJay on the rightPaolo and Buknoy Ronald in front of the wall painting that Lindsey painted.. Albert - he's quite a scholar.Marlon and JayJay (another scholar) and Buknoy

Living Life Out of the CENTER

2009-03-06T12:32:00.003+08:00

Yesterday I was very unsettled. I read my Bible a bit and felt the Lord calling me to read some more but I didn't want to, so I got busy and did everything I could think of doing. Then, again I felt the Lord telling me to sit down and read a bit. Finally, I gave up and sat down in my reading chair and glanced at my books. Which one do I need to read today?? Lindsey has always laughed at me

Gazing Only at the Face of God

2009-03-05T11:09:00.004+08:00

Yesterday I read a devotion in The Daily Office which I was still pondering when I woke up this morning. For those of you who know me, I am a ponderer. But I wanted to share it with you and would love, as always, to hear your thoughts."Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance

Where's our Old House???

2009-03-03T15:13:00.004+08:00

During our first term we lived in a small 3 bedroom flat that had a courtyard build around a mango tree. Well, for those of you who visited, when we came back, that precious little house was torn down along with that huge mango tree and this is what they build in place.

More Beauty of the Philippines

2009-03-03T14:59:00.009+08:00

We always call this an upside down Christmas tree. Very unusual tree.These are my favorites!This is a fire tree and man are they pretty!This one is for Lindsey - her favorite orange bougainvillea

Beauty of the Philippines

2009-03-03T14:41:00.013+08:00

Check out these orchids that grown upside down and this is called a pink pineapple but it doesn't grow any fruit.More orchids and yellow calla lillies on the bottom This house has always been Lindsey and my favorite. The bougainvilleas are breath taking when it is in full bloom.

"Wildness" of God

2009-02-28T13:40:00.007+08:00

"Now believe it or not, we are threatened by such a free God because it takes away all of our ability to control or engineer the process. It leaves us powerless, and changes the language from any language of performance or achievement to that of surrender, trust and vulnerability... that is the so-called "wildness" of God. We cannot control God by any means whatsoever, not even by our good

Patient Trust

2009-02-23T12:34:00.003+08:00

We had a day with Peter Scazzero during cross cultural training in New York City. God prompted us to purchase his book, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality and also his small book called the Daily Office which are bite size pieces from the bigger book. If you haven't read his books, they are great and I highly recommend them. But anyway, this morning's Daily Office really spoke to my heart and I

Girls Home - Ang Bahay Parola 4 (The Lighthouse)

2009-02-09T14:06:00.014+08:00

This is ABP4, our newest home which houses little girls from the ages of 6 years old to 12 years old. The top story is the girls home and the bottom level is an MTW church plant. As many of you know there are 1.2 million children on the Streets in Manila and this is one attempt to minister to these kids and also to reach these girls with the gospel. They are given a roof over their heads, food

Pictures of the Philippines

2009-02-08T15:16:00.023+08:00

Typical squatter's homes. The poor Filipino's find a piece of land and "squat" upon it. It's actually a law here that after so many years of living on this piece of land that it becomes their land.The market on the street where the majority of Filpinos shop. Notice the cart in 2 on the pictures. They just load their vegies (one has watermelons) into a cart and sell them right

Humbled by Worship and Surrender

2009-02-01T15:48:00.005+08:00

This morning we visited a church plant out in the providence (Filipino word for country) of Tanauan (see pictures below). For those of you who have visited the Philippines, it's on the way to Batangas, south of Manila. It took us 1 hour 15 minutes by car one way.When we arrived my heart was overwhelmed. There stood in front of me a tiny, tiny building, 15 feet by 16 feet, crammed (literally)

Mountains on the Way Back from Tanauan Church

2009-02-01T14:56:00.003+08:00

Man these kids capture my Heart!

2009-02-01T14:54:00.000+08:00

Steven speaking at the CE Worship, Tanauan Church - Pastor Marlon, His Wife and Congregation

2009-02-01T14:47:00.008+08:00

Some things are Universal - boys and dirt

2009-02-01T14:43:00.002+08:00

Ate Shelia the Social Worker from ABp3 (home for little boys) and 3 of the boys

2009-02-01T14:38:00.004+08:00

More Siquijor Pictures

2009-01-31T13:26:00.014+08:00

Siquijor Pictures

2009-01-31T13:15:00.007+08:00

A Filipino boat and this starfish was right n the edge of the water and I called it a "chocolate chip starfish". These women where digging in the coral for 1/2 inch shells that contained a very small bit of seafood of some sort in them.

Siquijor Retreat

2009-01-31T13:05:00.004+08:00

Well, I must confess as we were planning for this retreat, I felt rather guilty "retreating" so soon after our arrival. However, I was amazed that God knew exactly what we needed and how much my soul needed refreshing. Thank you Plains Presbyterian Church!!!This the most beautiful place I have ever visited in the Philippines. It is owned by an Australian and was absolutely breathtaking,

Home is Where My Heart is and My Handsome Husband

2009-01-27T11:25:00.014+08:00

I love the tropical plants in the Philippines, taken in front of our house. Then it's the dirty kitchen where the kitties are visiting and our bathroom. Below is our table - notice the puzzle and the Filipino pictures on the wall.Our kitchen and den, notice the Filipino Sala set and our bedroom.

Contentment

2009-01-27T10:29:00.002+08:00

Recently I have been reading The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment by Jeremiah Burroughs, one of the Puritan paperbacks. A dear friend of ours sent us the whole set to bring with us to the field! What a treasure! Anyway this quote has really pierced my heart. Even though I am not yet finished pondering it, I wanted to share it with you."Christian contentment is that sweet, inward, quiet,

Philippine's Kitties and More

2009-01-25T16:07:00.003+08:00

Well, I haven't been very successful in blogging this week! I keep forgetting my camera if you can believe that when I go out. Today we went to Pastor Eli's church and man how I wished for my camera. It was an incredible sermon and a great time of fellowship as well.Finally Thursday of this week, I decided to pray about my need for internet and God answered it rather quickly! We are "