Sunday, December 19, 2010

::The First Noël::

"About that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David's town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. He went with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant." ::Luke 2:1-5::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 6 DAYS!

I love the sound of Celtic Woman. Here's their rendition of one of my favorite Christmas carols.


-ej

Saturday, December 18, 2010

::Light-O-Rama::

"His mercy flows in wave after wave on those who are in awe before him. He bared his arm and showed his strength pulled victims out of the mud. The starving poor sat down to a banquet; the callous rich were left out in the cold. He embraced his chosen child, Israel; he remembered and piled on the mercies, piled them high. It's exactly what he promised, beginning with Abraham and right up to now. Mary stayed with Elizabeth for three months and then went back to her own home." ::Luke 1:50-56::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 7 DAYS!

There's a house like this in my hometown that is quite wonderful to watch. If you haven't seen any Christmas lights synchronized to music, watch below. It's even better with snow all around!



-ej

Friday, December 17, 2010

::Two Doors Down::

"And Mary said, I'm bursting with God-news; I'm dancing the song of my Savior God. God took one good look at me, and look what happened— I'm the most fortunate woman on earth! What God has done for me will never be forgotten, the God whose very name is holy, set apart from all others." ::Luke 1:46-49::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 8 DAYS!

Here's a song with a challenge not just for Christmas, but for every day of the year.



"Light Your World" by Newsong

"Two doors down one rocking chair is rocking
She sits there all alone, her husband dead and gone
The best years of her life they spent together
He was always strong, but now she's on her own
And the telephone never rings
No one laughs, no one sings
It's quiet there
Does anyone care?

Light your world
Let the love of God shine through
In the little things you do
Light your world
And though your light may be
Reaching only two or three
Light your world

A knocking at her door breaks the silence
She looks out to see a little boy from down the street
She cracks the door, surprised that he came over
Flowers in his hand like a little gentleman
He said, 'I picked these just for you
I hope you like the color blue
Could I stay a while
I love to see you smile.'

Light your world
Let the love of God shine through
In the little things you do
Light your world
And though your light may be
Reaching only two or three
Light your world

It only takes a little time
To show someone how much you care
It only takes a little time
To answer someone's biggest prayer."

-ej

Thursday, December 16, 2010

::Nine Ladies Dancing::

"The moment the sound of your greeting entered my ears, The babe in my womb skipped like a lamb for sheer joy. Blessed woman, who believed what God said, believed every word would come true!" ::Luke 1:44-45::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 9 DAYS!

My dad loves the a capella group Straight No Chaser, and there is nothing quite like their Christmas music! If you are looking for great Christmas music to put you in a festive mood, look up Straight No Chaser and you won't be disappointed!

This is one of their most famous songs "The 12 Days of Christmas," although that title doesn't quite do this song justice. Listen and just try not to laugh!



I'm leaving off the lyrics to this one, because it's better experienced that way ;).

-ej

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

::Rejoice!::

"Mary didn't waste a minute. She got up and traveled to a town in Judah in the hill country, straight to Zachariah's house, and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby in her womb leaped. She was filled with the Holy Spirit, and sang out exuberantly, 'You're so blessed among women, and the babe in your womb, also blessed! And why am I so blessed that the mother of my Lord visits me?'"
::Luke 1:39-43 (Message)::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 10 DAYS!

If I could sing like anyone, I'd want to have Enya's voice. She has such an ethereal and fantastical quality to her voice that I just love! This is one of her Christmas songs from her album "And Winter Came."



"O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" by Enya

"O come, o come Emmanuel,
To free your captive Israel.
That mourns in lonely exile here,
Until the Son of God appear.

Rejoice! Rejoice!
O Israel, to you shall
come Emmanuel.

Veni, veni, Emanuel!
Captivum solve Israel!
Qui gemit in exilio,
Privatus Dei Filio.

Gaude, gaude, Emanuel
Nascetur pro te, Israel.

Gaude, gaude

Gaude, gaude, Emanuel
Nascetur pro te, Israel."

Beautiful, isn't it?
-ej

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

::The Lord's Maid::

"And Mary said, 'Yes, I see it all now: I'm the Lord's maid, ready to serve. Let it be with me just as you say.' Then the angel left her." ::Luke 1:38 (Message)::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 11 DAYS!

One of my favorite Christmas songs is originally by Amy Grant and called "Breath of Heaven." It's from Mary's perspective and how she probably felt waiting to give birth to the Son of God. It is a beautiful song.

This version of the song is interpreted into sign language.



"Breath of Heaven" by Amy Grant

"I have traveled many moonless night
Cold and weary, with a babe inside
And I wonder what I've done
Holy Father, you have come
And chosen me now
To carry your son

I am waiting in a silent prayer
I am frightened by the load I bear
In a world as cold as stone,
Must I walk this path alone?
Be with me now
Be with me now

Breath of heaven
Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Light up my darkness
Pour over me your holiness
For you are holy

Breath of heaven

Do you wonder as you watch my face
If a wiser one one should have had my place
But I offer all I am
For the mercy of your plan
Help me be strong
Help me be
Help me

Breath of heaven Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Light up my darkness
Pour over me your holiness
For you are holy
Breath of heaven"

May He always be near you to lighten your darkness.
-ej

Monday, December 13, 2010

::Pepperminty Winter::

"And did you know that your cousin Elizabeth conceived a son, old as she is? Everyone called her barren, and here she is six months pregnant! Nothing, you see, is impossible with God."
::Luke 1:36-37 (Message)::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 12 DAYS!

My favorite band is Owl City! I've seen him in concert twice, and his music is optimistic and always brightens my day. Adam Young, the artist behind Owl City, released a winter single recently that makes me almost believe I could look out my window and see a snowy wonderland!



"Peppermint Winter" by Owl City

"There’s the snow
Look out below
And bundle up
Cause here it comes
Run outside
So starry eyed
A snowball fight breaks out
And winter has finally begun

I twirl through the driveway with angelic grace
Till I slip on the sidewalk and fall on my face
This peppermint winter is so sugar sweet
I don’t need to taste to believe
What’s December without Christmas Eve

Hop in the sleigh
And we’ll glide away
Into the night
And we’ll sip on moonlight
Runny nose
My frosty toes
Are getting cold but I feel alive
So I smile wide

The snowflakes start falling and I start to float
Till my mean older brother stuffs snow down my coat
This peppermint winter is so sugar sweet
I don’t need to taste to believe
What’s December without Christmas Eve

All this holiday cheer
Heaven knows where it goes
But it returns every year
And though this winter does nothing but storm
The joy in my heart is ablaze and it’s keeping me warm
It’s keeping me warm
It’s keeping me warm

I rip off the wrapping and tear through the box
Till I end up with 45 new pairs of socks
This peppermint winter is so sugar sweet
I don’t need to taste to believe
What’s December without Christmas Eve"

School is wrapping up now, and I am so excited to go home! Just a few more tests and projects, some packing and lots of cleaning left and then I'm driving to good ole Cali. I hope that you are enjoying your winter and staying warm!

-ej

Sunday, December 12, 2010

::Noël::

"Mary said to the angel, 'But how? I've never slept with a man.' The angel answered, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, the power of the Highest hover over you; Therefore, the child you bring to birth will be called Holy, Son of God.' "
::Luke 1:34-35 (Message)::

EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 13 DAYS!

I love the song "Carol of the Bells," and BarlowGirl has a version of it mixed with "Sing We Now of Christmas" that is absolutely beautiful! It played on the radio earlier tonight, and I've played it often in the car rides for Christmas spirit. Enjoy and be reminded of the message the bells are ringing out!



"Carol of the Bells/Sing We Now of Christmas" by BarlowGirl

"Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells
All seem to say, throw cares away
Christmas is here, bringing good cheer
To young and old, meek and the bold
Ding, dong, ding, dong

Ding, dong, and, dong, that is their song,
With joyful ring, all caroling
One seems to hear words of good cheer
From everywhere, filling the air
O, how they pound, raising the sound
Oer hill and dale, telling their tale
Gaily they ring while people sing
Songs of good cheer, Christmas is here!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!

On, on they send, on without end
Their joyful tone to every home
Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells
All seem to say, throw cares away
Ding, dong, and, dong, that is their song
With joyful ring, all caroling
One seems to hear words of good cheer
From everywhere, filling the air
O, how they pound, raising the sound
Oer hill and dale, telling their tale
Gaily they ring, while people sing
Songs of good cheer, Christmas is here!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!

Sing we now of Christmas
Noel sing we here (Noel sing we here)
Sing O, great for praises
To the babe so dear
Sing we Noel
The King is born Noel
Sing we now of Christmas
Sing we here Noel

Sing we now of Christmas
Noel sing we here (Noel sing we here)
Sing O, great for praises
To the babe so dear

Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells (Sing Noel)
All seem to say, throw cares away
Christmas is here, bringing good cheer (Sing Noel)
To young and old, meek and the bold

Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells
All seem to say, throw cares away
Christmas is here, bringing good cheer
To young and old, meek and the bold
O, how they pound, raising the sound
Oer hill and dale, telling their tale
Gaily they ring, while people sing
Songs of good cheer, Christmas is here!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas!
Christmas!"

Joyeux Noel!
-ej

Saturday, December 11, 2010

::I Celebrate the Day::

"She was thoroughly shaken, wondering what was behind a greeting like that. But the angel assured her, 'Mary, you have nothing to fear. God has a surprise for you: You will become pregnant and give birth to a son and call his name Jesus.
    He will be great, be called 'Son of the Highest.'
    The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David;
    He will rule Jacob's house forever—
no end, ever, to his kingdom.' " ::Luke 1:29-33 (Message)::


EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 14 DAYS!
 
Here's another video of a song that recognizes the importance of not just Jesus' birth, but why He came. Because of God's masterful plan that included sending His Son, I celebrate the day!



"I Celebrate the Day" by Relient K

"And with this Christmas wish is missed
The point I could convey
If only I could find the words to say to let You know how much You've touched my life
Because here is where You're finding me, in the exact same place as New Year's eve
And from a lack of my persistency
We're less than half as close as I want to be

And the first time
That You opened Your eyes did You realize that You would be my Savior
And the first breath that left Your lips
Did You know that it would change this world forever

And so this Christmas I'll compare the things I felt in prior years
To what this midnight made so clear
That You have come to meet me here

To look back and think that
This baby would one day save me
In the hope that what You did
That you were born so I might [ really ]live
To look back and think that
This baby would one day save me

And I, I celebrate the day
That You were born to die
So I could one day pray for You to save my life."

It takes more than a simple prayer, but that is a good beginning. And I celebrate the day that Jesus was born though most likely not on December 25, but it's as good a day as all the rest to remember our Savior!

-ej

Friday, December 10, 2010

::Christmas and the Cross::

"In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to the Galilean village of Nazareth to a virgin engaged to be married to a man descended from David. His name was Joseph, and the virgin's name, Mary. Upon entering, Gabriel greeted her:
   'Good morning!
   You're beautiful with God's beauty,
   Beautiful inside and out!
   God be with you.' "
::Luke 1:26-28 (Message)::


EJ'S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: 15 DAYS!

To begin my Christmas countdown, I'm sharing a video of a song by Go Fish. The world remembers the birth of Christ once a year, but His birth is only the beginning. Jesus was born so that He could die for us. His birth isn't what saves us; His death and resurrection save us from our sin! So as we remember Christ's birth, remember why He came. It's all about the cross.



"It's About the Cross" by Go Fish

"It’s not just about the manger where the baby lay
It’s not all about the angels who sang for him that day
It’s not just about the shepherds or the bright and shining star
It’s not all about the wise men who traveled from afar

It’s about the cross
It’s about my sin
It’s about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again

It’s about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday
It’s about the cross
It’s about the cross

It’s not just about the presents underneath the tree
It’s not all about the feeling that the season brings to me
It’s not just about coming home to be with those you love
It’s not all about the beauty in the snow I’m dreaming of

The beginning of the story is wonderful and great
But it’s the ending that can save you and that’s why we celebrate

It’s about the cross
It’s about my sin
It’s about how Jesus came to be born once
So that we could be born again

It’s about God’s love
Nailed to a tree
It’s about every drop of blood that flowed from Him when it should have been me

It’s about the stone
That was rolled away
So that you and I could have real life someday
So that you and I could have real life someday
It’s about the cross
It’s about the cross."

Jesus' birth is only the beginning!
-ej

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

::Jonah::

"[Jesus] called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: 'Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven...And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.'" ::Matthew 18:2-3,5::

Today during brownbag we watched a video of a little girl (I believe she's 6) telling the story of Jonah. It is so wonderful to hear such a young child tell the story with enthusiasm and sincerity. I don't think anyone could watch without a smile reaching your face. Jonah is not just a story to her, and it shouldn't be just a story to us either. Please take the time out of your day to watch this roughly 8 minute long video. I promise that it is worth your time :).



My challenge to you is that next time you sit down to read your Bible, see the the stories through the eyes of a child and let them come alive! It's not a boring history book; it's filled with real people and a real God who wants you to get to know Him!

May we never tire of reading God's Word.

"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

-ej

Tuesday, December 07, 2010

::Luck of the Pot::

"Names, once they are in common use, quickly become mere sounds, their etymology being buried, like so many of the earth's marvels, beneath the dust of habit."
::Salman Rushdie::

Just for fun, here's another etymology post! This one is about a fairly common word we hear on Sundays.

Potluck:
English, from the 1592, 1600 in the writings of Thomas Nashe

original meaning: "food provided for an unexpected or uninvited guest", or "one's chance or luck of the pot"
18th century influenced by the word "Potlatche": def. "a communal meal" in the Chinook Jargon, a Native American language
19th century sp. "pot-luck": def. "meal provided by the host"
current definition: "a communal meal to which people bring food to share"

-ej

Monday, December 06, 2010

::Надейся на Господа::

"Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."
::Corrie Ten Boom::

This is a cartoon written by some of the AIMers, and I found this one quite funny. :) You'll probably have to click on it to make it big enough to read.
 Property of AIM ALUMNI ASSOCIATION from the AIMER HUB BLOG

We are in the unknown time. Some of the AIMers have an idea of where they are going for the field, others have no idea, but all of us know that there are many unknown variables. Where will my field be? With who will I be going? What will it be like? Will I get along with the coordinators? From where will my support come?

Isn't it wonderful to know that we have a God who already knows the answer to all these questions? He's a BIG God, and yet cares even for little me and you!

Next time you have doubts about the future and the unknown, just know that you can trust God. We don't need to worry when He's in charge!

" 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.' " Jeremiah 29:11-13

-ej

Saturday, December 04, 2010

::Nov 2010::

"Always winter but never Christmas."
::C.S. Lewis in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe::

The link to download my November newsletter: November Newsletter.

If you'd like to receive the newsletter by email, please leave your email and let me know at http://kontactr.com/user/ejtotheworld.

I think I've fixed my blog so that you can comment with being a google member. I have also moved up the Follow button on the right side of my blog so that it's easier to find. You are more than welcome to follow me, and please do comment! :)

Thanks! Love you all.
-ej

Monday, November 15, 2010

::Psalm 27::

"The LORD is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid?...One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple."
::David in Psalm 27:1,4::

During last term, I wrote 3 teaching outlines for my Old Testament class. I posted the first outline I wrote which was on Josiah previously in a blog post. I really enjoyed doing this, and since I have previously taught a ladies' small group during my senior year at Harding, it came fairly easy to me. The last one had to be on a psalm, so I automatically picked my absolutely favorite psalm, favorite passage of Scripture actually, Psalm 27. One of the verses is at the top of this blog. It is the chapter I go to most during good and difficult times. It challenges me and uplifts me. My favorite verse changes often because life is constantly changing, but I love the entire psalm.

I got 100 on this outline, and decided to use it for a small group lesson I gave this past week. We have a ladies' small group on Tuesday nights, and it was finally my turn to give the lesson. I thought about many different topics, but I knew that all of us are feeling some fear of forming teams and looking ahead to field times and the unknown. Psalm 27 has many applications, and one of them is definitely to address fear.

Ultimately, my lesson was about the best way to get rid of fear is to seek after God wholeheartedly. When we are looking into the face of God, there is nothing to fear.

We had a lot of really good discussion, so I jumped off of that and didn't follow this outline strictly but more as a reference. I thought it went well, and I know the lesson was what I needed to hear right now. Here is my teaching outline:

“WHOM SHALL I FEAR?” 
Text: Psalm 27

Purpose of Lesson: To understand that seeking after God and trusting in Him takes away fear. There is nothing and no one to fear when we strive to be in the presence of God for He will never leave us.

Principles of the Text: When the Lord is the light and salvation of your life, as well as the defense, there is no reason to fear even an army at war against you (27:1-3). If God is the most important thing in your life, He will protect you; as He exalts you, your reply ought to be of praise and sacrifice (27:4-6). With so much to fear in life, God is the constant. He is near to those who seek Him (27:7-10). Despite what people say about you, follow God’s path and seek His understanding. His way is not our way, but it is good (27:11-14).

Opening Question: What do you fear? What would you consider the worst thing that could happen to you? Why do you fear this?

Discussion Questions: 
1. How does fear gain power over our lives?

2. Why is fear such a bad thing? Why do we need to trust in God instead?

3. What does it mean that God is “my light”?

4. How has God protected you already in your life?

5. Why is it so difficult to trust God in your own life when bad things happen?

6. Why is waiting, especially for God, so difficult for us?

7. What is your “one thing” that you seek after? What makes it your number one priority?

8. What should be our reaction to our salvation? How should it change our priorities?

9. How do we seek the face of God?

Application: Think about your “one thing” that you seek after in your own life and evaluate it. Is your life filled with fear? Are you afraid of what could happen? You need to look at what your heart desires. Throughout this week, try to be aware of your motives and the desires that drive your actions and try to focus your life on God; the only One who can take away fear. Simplify your life and seek after your "one thing." If God is at the center of your life, there is nothing to fear. Trust Him and wait on His timing. He won’t abandon you. “Be strong and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14).

***Again, if you'd like to use this outline or some of the ideas, please ask and give credit! Thanks.

-ej

Saturday, November 13, 2010

::I'm a Survivor::

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."
::Paul in 1 Timothy 4:12::

We have had a somewhat stressful time these last few weeks as we have sorting teams and choosing fields. As of two nights ago, we have a "potential" Ukraine team of 2 guys/2 girls! I'm really really excited about the 4 of us working together, but we shall have to wait to see if anything changes. The official announcement of teams will be in the beginning of December, but it is possible for changes to be made after that. However, I really hope it stays the 4 of us :).

Ukraine is my first choice field, and my top choice for girl is also wanting to go to Ukraine! After getting to know the missionary a little and hearing about the work and possibilities in Kharkov, I have felt a calling to go there. Nothing is set in stone yet, but I feel God may already be preparing me for Ukraine.

Last night was the Sunset youth girls' retreat! It was the second all-night girls' retreat I've had in nearly a week at the same place. There was cookie-decorating, karaoke, necklace crafts, games, food, a lesson, and even some sleep. The theme was 1 Timothy 4:12, which is always a good verse for young people to hear.

During karaoke, one of the songs sung was "I'm a Survivor" by Destiny's Child and I noticed a line I had never heard before:
"I'm not gonna compromise my Christianity (I'm better than that)"

I've heard that song many many times before, but next time I might sing it with a new attitude. I'm a survivor. And no matter what happens, bad or good, I'm not gonna compromise my Christianity.

-ej

Friday, November 05, 2010

::Oct 2010::

"October's poplars are flaming torches lighting the way to winter." ::Nova Bair::

Here is a link to download my October newsletter: October Newsletter.

If you'd like to receive the newsletter by email, please leave your email and let me know at http://kontactr.com/user/ejtotheworld.

And just for me, please follow my blog or leave a comment saying hi! ;)

Thanks! Love you all.
-ej

::Hiding Place::

"Seek goodness everywhere, and when it is found, bring it out of its hiding place and let it be free and unashamed." 
::William Saroyan::

I apologize for taking a week off of blogging. I have been fighting off sickness as well as having some preoccupations for my time. My sister has been ill and had her gallbladder removed this past Tuesday in Arkansas. She is still recovering from the surgery, but is doing much better! Also on Tuesday, I had the honor of speaking in Ladies' chapel at Sunset. I really enjoyed the opportunity, and it was so encouraging to hear responses from everyone.

Our last field presentation was on Monday. Wednesday night after church, we actually filled out our lists for top fields and our "dream team"! It's really exciting to be working on teams now. For the next week, we can move our names around into different fields on a board in a AIM room. We will start forming our own teams that way, until we reach a stand-still and the director's will have the final say on teams. Please be in prayer for this whole process and for all of the AIMers to give any worry to God.

We had a AIM girls' lock-in last night, which was a lot of fun! We discussed the different stages of relationship with Jesus. Tomorrow we have a cook-out in Hart, and I'm not even sure of my own plans for the evening!

For the rest of this post, I thought I would share some pictures from our Paducah/Harding trip!

  on the Paducah church bus

flowers at my host home in Missouri
"To behold the beauty of the Lord" Psalm 27:4

Pinocchio statue in St. Louis' City Garden

the St. Louis arch

morning devo in Paducah

climbing in the garden of the gods in Illinois:
"In the secret place of His tent He will hide me... 

...He will lift me up on a rock" Psalm 27:5b


-ej

Thursday, October 21, 2010

::The Road::

"The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began,
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many path and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say."
::J.R.R. Tolkien::

We have returned from our “break”! After 10 days and many hours spent on a bus, we are grateful to be back in our own apartments in Lubbock. While last week was our week off from school, none of us are very rested, but I know I’m still enjoying our new term this week! It was a fun trip, and the highlight for me was getting to see my sister and three of my closest friends in Arkansas! I’ll try to be as succinct as possible, in an overview of our travels.

At 4am on Thursday, October 7, we began our drive to Ozark, Missouri for the first night. We ate at Lambert’s Cafe, home of the throwed rolls (my first visit), which is definitely worth a stop! Unlimited fresh rolls, fried okra (yum!), potatoes and just lots of good southern food. The church in Ozark graciously hosted us for a night, and I stayed at a beautiful home nestled among rolling hills and watched the sunset over the Ozark mountains. After a few more hours driving the next day, we had 3 hours to spend in St. Louis. I love that city and was glad for another visit! A handful of us walked for an hour to eat at the Hard Rock Cafe. It was in an old, majestic train station that has been turned into a huge mall with a little river running through it and the “Grandest Hall Possible” for its time. The long walk was worth it just to see the Arch from many different angles and a City Garden with many unique sculptures and water fountains.

That night we arrived in Paducah, Kentucky! Our bus driver, Jamie, is the youth minister from Paducah and drove out for two days to Lubbock just to pick us up and make the return trip. The Lone Oak congregation is so incredibly supportive of AIM and ensure that each year’s class can make the trip out there! Saturday, we helped them to run a fish fry for the community. Around 1000 people came. I was a part of the frying of hush puppies for nearly 5 hours, but I really enjoyed getting to know members of the congregation and working behind the scenes.

Sunday through Wednesday morning, we encouraged the congregation, hung out with the youth, worked service projects and held devos daily. The family I stayed with has one daughter on the field now as an AIMer, and I enjoyed hearing stories from their oldest daughter who came off the field this past summer. We also went to the garden of the gods, full of beautiful bluffs and rocks to climb, and made a quick stop to Metropolis, Illinois, the home of Superman. I made sure to get pictures of me and Superman!

After a day of driving, we made it to Bentonville, Arkansas to worship with the youth group there and tell them about AIM. It was so great to be back in Arkansas, and I stayed with a family who has two daughters at Harding right now! We played games, made homemade pizza, and watched Sleepless in Seattle (such a great movie). I was sad we only had one night to stay there!

Finally on Thursday, we made it to Camp Tahkodah for the World Mission Workshop Harding hosted for the 50th year, and saw my sister!!! Another good friend also came up for the weekend which was so much fun! We three stayed in a tent together in "Tent City". There's a lot I could say about the workshop, as it was very training oriented for missions instead of just classes. We were there Thursday evening until early Saturday morning. Two other wonderful friends I made at Harding came up Friday night and stayed for quite a few hours! We took pictures on a swinging bridge and had the best time laughing and sharing our lives! I miss them all so much, it did my heart good to see them again. When I graduated in May, I honestly did not know when I would be able to visit Arkansas. God is good, as always! Now I'm heading back to Arkansas for Thanksgiving and I'll get to spend more time with them!

Dallas was our temporary home on Saturday night, and I enjoyed getting to visit one of the larger congregations there on Sunday. It was very different from what I am used to, but good. Kris, the AIM director, had asked me if I could share about AIM before class on Sunday morning in one of the adult classrooms. I had 5 minutes and told my reasons for coming to AIM, explained what we had been busy doing and where we were heading next in our time. It was a really encouraging experience just to see their faces, interested and supportive. They prayed for all of the AIMers, and especially the three of us who went to that class.

Sunday night we were home! Classes started Monday, but I think this post is long enough for now so I'll save that for later. This weekend, all of us Sunset AIMers are going to the Junior High Retreat. I'll be the 6th grade girls' counselor, and I'm really excited! I'm hoping to get some rest tonight so that I won't be completely exhausted all weekend long.

Thank you so much for your prayers during our trip! We were able to impact a lot of lives as they touched our own. Our God is faithful!

A bond-servant of Christ,
-ej

Wednesday, October 06, 2010

::Road Trip::

"The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." ::Augustine::

In less than 3 hours, we will be hitting the road for nearly two weeks. I am really excited for this trip! Best of all, I get to see my sister!! :) I will try to post during our travels maybe even by email, but no promises as I don't know internet situation anywhere we'll be.

Tomorrow is our longest day of travel and will be spent nearly entirely in a bus (or van). Please pray for safe travels and that we may be a blessing to each and every person we encounter along the way.

-ej

Monday, October 04, 2010

::Josiah::

"I am a writer of books in retrospect. I talk in order to understand; I teach in order to learn." ::Robert Frost::

I apologize for the lack of updates recently; this week is finals week. It has been a good first term, and I'm really looking forward to the break we have: a trip to St. Louis, Kentucky, Harding and Dallas! I am most excited, of course, about Harding. I'll get to see my sister and one of my closest friends! We won't be on campus, maybe not at all, but we will be at the World Mission Workshop at Takhoda. I need to get back to writing a paper and studying for my two finals tomorrow, but I thought I'd post a teaching outline I wrote a few weeks back.

In my Old Testament class we had to create three teaching outlines as if we were going to teach the Bible class lessons. They were on an event, a person, and a Psalm. I did my second outline on King Josiah, and I enjoyed learning about him myself. My teacher also thought it was good (97%), so I thought I'd share it with you. You can also see the kind of work that we do in AIM classes. I hope Josiah's life challenges you as it challenged me.

"KING JOSIAH MAKES IT RIGHT"

Text: 2 Chronicles 33:2,22; 34-35

Purpose of Lesson: To look at King Josiah’s life as an example of being willing to go against the status quo and stand for what is right. We, like Josiah, must look at our lives and examine our motives and actions against God’s standard. When we find evil, it must be purged from our lives and replaced with His goodness. In humility we must be willing to admit wrong and repent before God to change what needs to be changed in our lives to seek after Him.

Principles of the Text: King Josiah broke from his family legacy and chose to seek after God instead (2 Chron. 33:2, 22; 34:2). He was willing to examine his life and his kingdom to purge evil from them (2 Chron. 34:3-7). Josiah then repairs the temple of God after tearing down the false altars and destroying their idols (2 Chron. 34:10). When the lost Book of Law was found, he immediately humbled himself before God (2 Chron. 34:27), then repented and made right his own heart and actions as well as those of the people according to God’s law (2 Chron. 34:31-33).

Opening Question: What is your family known for and how has that legacy impacted you? Tell me about something you do now simply because that’s what your family has always done or you’ve always done it that way.

Discussion Questions:
1. Josiah was 8 years old when he became king. How has your parents’ influence on you changed from when you were young until now? What is different?

2. Josiah’s father and grandfather both did evil in the eyes of the Lord. What would have been expected of Josiah as the next king? Describe the status quo of the time.

3. When Josiah was 16, he chose to seek God. When did you decide on your own to seek after God and what lead to that decision? What are your reasons now for seeking God?

4. For the past two generations since King Hezekiah, the people in Judah have been allowed to worship false gods freely. Their idols and altars had pervaded the nation of Judah. Why are the people of God so eager and willing to turn to false gods?

5. Why is it so important to follow God’s law if we are truly seeking after Him?

6. Even though Josiah had been seeking after God, he and all of Judah were ignorant of the Book of Law until it was rediscovered. When he heard the Law, his first reaction was to tear his clothes and weep before God. What should our first reaction be when we learn we are in sin? What usually is your reaction when you discover sin in your life?

7. Josiah set the example to seek after God, making it right by ensuring the people heard the Book of Law read to them. Those who had previously worshipped false gods turned back to following God because of Josiah. Why are examples so influential?

8. 2 Chronicles 22:2 says that “Josiah did right in the sight of the Lord and walked in the ways of his father David and did not turn aside to the right or to the left.” What does it mean to do “right in the sight of the Lord”?

9. When we seek God, He shows us what we need to change in our lives. Josiah realized that to make it right he needed to put a stop to worshipping of false gods? What has God been showing you that you need to change in your own life?

10. Josiah made a covenant before God to walk after the Lord and follow the Book of Law. What covenant do you need to make before God right now?

Application: Take a few moments to examine your own life and your walk with God. What sin are you struggling with right now? Is there something you know you should be doing but are not? What is God showing you that you need to make right? Pick one thing you need to change and pray about it in humility. Make a covenant with God for this next week to try to change. Then focus on making that one change this week and “do right in the sight of the Lord.”

***Just in case anyone would like to use this teaching outline or any ideas from it, or wants to see the other two I have written, please ask first! Thanks!

-ej

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

::Judgment Day::

"The safest road to hell is the gradual one - the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts." ::CS Lewis::

When we were at Blue Haven for the Sunset youth group senior high retreat, our main role was to do skits before the worship time. The five of us AIMers practiced most of the day for the skit, performed it and started on a new skit. The last night, we had a skit picked out for us, but it wasn't very relevant for teens. We thought about modifying it, but decided to just do a completely different skit we came up with in about an hour. We only practiced it twice because, well, it was really emotional for all of us. This is our skit.



I saw a shirt in Ruidoso, NM that summed up this skit in a not-so-humorous way: Friends don't let friends burn in hell.

Keep fighting; this is war and it's not over yet.
-ej

Sunday, September 26, 2010

::Adieu & Adios::

"The universal principle of etymology in all languages: words are carried over from bodies and from the properties of bodies to express the things of the mind and spirit. The order of ideas must follow the order of things."
::Giambattista Vico::

This post is different than any other I've written so far; it is about etymology, or the study of the origin of words. It is an interest of mine so these posts might become more frequent. This first post involves two words commonly understood by Americans, but originating in other languages, and their English equivalent. I use both foreign words frequently in everyday language, thanks to my French and Spanish classes.

Adios:
Spanish, definition: "goodbye" or "farewell"
literal meaning: "a Dios" :: "to God"
origin: "a Dios vos acomiendo" :: "I commend you to God"

Adieu:
French, definition: also "goodbye" or "farewell"
literal meaning: "a Dieu" :: "to God"
origin: late 14c. Old French, "a Dieu (vous) commant" :: "I commend (you) to God"

Goodbye:
English, definition: "farewell"
meaning: a contraction "Godbwye" with influence "good day" and "good night"
origin: 1590s, "God be with ye"

Would you have ever realized that the root of these words was about God? When I use these words now, they have more meaning for me than just "farewell." They mean the equivalent of "God be with you." These words have more power than we give them credit; let's strive to use the original definition when we say these words.

Adieu.
-ej

Friday, September 24, 2010

::Sept 2010::

"He who chooses the beginning of a road chooses the place it leads to. It is the means that determine the end." ::Harry Emerson Fosdick::

As part of AIM, I am sending out newsletters to my supporters to keep them updated. If you would like to download a pdf version of my newsletter to read, here it is: September Newsletter.

Also, if you'd like to receive the newsletter by email, please leave your email and let me know at http://kontactr.com/user/ejtotheworld.

I was also wondering who reads this, so please FOLLOW me and/or leave me a comment sometime! ;)

Thanks! Love you all.
-ej

Thursday, September 23, 2010

::The Grand Canyon State::

"The phoenix hope, can wing her way through the desert skies, and still defying fortune's spite; revive from ashes and rise." ::Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra::

We had a mission field presentation on Tuesday for Phoenix, Arizona. This is one of our 3 domestic fields. I co-led a spring break mission trip in 2009 to Chandler (a suburb of Phoenix) from Harding University. It was one of THE best weeks of my life, with wonderful friends, and great memories. We hosted a VBS and door-knocked around a poorer suburb of Chandler. It was wonderful to see it all come together and all of the desire the kids had to learn about Jesus.

Having been to Phoenix, I had an idea of the mission work needed there. The AIM team will live and work downtown. They will do a lot of inner-city work, as well as work with the college students going to school in downtown Phoenix. It may not be a "foreign" field, but working with the poorest neighborhood in the 5th largest city in the US is a challenge of its own.

So many times we overlook the mission field here in our back yard. Phoenix needs the Gospel just as much as South Africa; California, my home, needs the Gospel as does Lubbock, Texas. Just as Kris and Pat, the AIM Directors remind us, we already on the mission field. The mission is for every Christian; everywhere we go there are people who need God. So let's -you and me- go tell them!

-ej

::Heaven Stands::

"No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear." ::CS Lewis::

There's a song that recently stood out to me on the radio. It's called "Your Hands," by JJ Heller. Right now, my world is not shaking, nor is my heart breaking; but I have been there. This song speaks to where I have been, and I think it can speak to everyone. I hope it also encourages you today, whatever is going on in your life right now and wherever you have been.



-ej

Saturday, September 18, 2010

::Ciao!::

"Europeans, like some Americans, drive on the right side of the road, except in England, where they drive on both sides of the road; Italy, where they drive on the sidewalk; and France, where if necessary they will follow you right into the hotel lobby." ::Dave Barry::

Prato, Italy
We had our first mission field presentation last Thursday! It was for Prato, Italy. A field presentation is given by the missionaries in that place and details the work and life there. We will have a presentation from each location where AIM teams can be sent next spring. Missionaries typically come to present or send someone in their stead; if that is not possibly, we use skype (video phone calls)! They begin now and run through the end of October. November will be when we will form teams, and they will be finalized in December.

For Prato, Italy, we watched a youtube video the AIMers in Prato right now put together and then skyped the missionaries (and AIMers). Prato is a really neat place, and I definitely could picture myself there. However, I think I could say that about everywhere in the world! Prato is the second most culturally diverse city in Europe and close to the size of Lubbock. Italy is a difficult place to do mission work, because the people are not as receptive to Christianity. It is evangelism based on relationships. The church is very united throughout Italy, although small. The missionaries are wonderful, and very welcoming.

It is really exciting to begin hearing about places I could be in less than a year! I do have a number of fields at the top of my list, but I've kept my mind fairly open to most of the fields. There are a couple reasons for this: I don't want to be disappointed if I don't get my "first choice", I want to decide based on the mission work and missionaries there, and the team choice comes before field. If I wind up in a country I love but with people I don't work well with, I won't be able to be as effective in the mission work. It involves lots of prayer :). God already knows where I'll be in a year, and that's enough for me.

If you would also continue to pray for me and all of the AIMers as we continue to grow in faith through God's grace and in friendship with one another.

-ej

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

::Fork in the Road::

"For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." ::Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)::

One of the things I LOVE about AIM is our teachers really make us think about things. We aren't just learning knowledge of the Bible; we are challenged to change to be more like Jesus. I once heard someone say that Christians should be forks in the road; when people encounter us, they should be forced to choose between being pulled closer to Jesus or turn away from Him. The point is that we need to impact people so that they cannot remain the same. It's something I desire and strive to be, and fail at often.

When people met Jesus, they had to make a choice: believe He is the Son of God- the Messiah, or deny Him and go your own way alone. Jesus was the ultimate fork in the road. The teachers at AIM are striving to be like Jesus, and therefore they too are forks in the road. When they teach, we are encounter Jesus and are forced to make a choice. We either choose to become more like Jesus, or push Him farther away. But we cannot remain the same.

I wish I could share with you all of what I have learned. I do hope to share pieces of the treasures I am learning as time goes on. Here is a short skit we watched in my Life of Christ class that caused me to shed a few tears, even. This video is a fork in the road. Once you watch it, you will be faced with a choice. I know what I choose, and I pray you choose the same.



I am God's original masterpiece. So are you. I pray that God will continue to chisel both you and I until all people see is Jesus in us.

-ej

Monday, September 13, 2010

::A Thousand Words::

"Of all of our inventions for mass communication, pictures still speak the most universally understood language." ::Walt Disney::

Just a quick post to say I uploaded photos to Facebook and Picasa which are now available for viewing right here on my blog! Simply direct your attention to the right sidebar, and click on the little photos at bottom or the "play" button next to the "link" to view a slideshow. These pictures are from our trips to Canadian, TX; Amherst, TX; Clovis, NM; and Denver City, TX, all during the first month of AIM. More will come later this week, but for now, enjoy! :)

If you'd rather, here's a direct link to the facebook album:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2141734&id=71005774&l=33c66558c6

-ej

Sunday, September 12, 2010

::Rescue::

"What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God--through Jesus Christ our Lord!" ::Romans 7:24-25::

One of our teachers used to have a managerial role in the group Acappella and played two different songs in videos for us. Acappella sang both of the songs during the concert in Denver City, but one of them brought me to tears. It is a powerful song, and I want to share it with you. It's called "Rescue."



I'm not posting the lyrics here, because I think there's more impact in just listening to the words. If you want to read them, here's a link:
Rescue lyrics by Acappella.

-ej

Saturday, September 11, 2010

::Peregrination::

"The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one's own country as a foreign land." ::G.K. Chesterton::

There are two things that are the foundation of many of the goals in my life: 1) I love to travel and 2) I love change. By change, I mean I dislike routines, schedules and consistency. As often as possible, I rearrange my room; I break routine; I create change in my life. Both of these are linked. I travel to experience something different and new. I don't want to stay in the same place very long.

My dream job would consist of something that I could go to a new place all the time. I honestly do not see myself building my "dream house" in my "ideal town" and living there forever. I don't want "roots" except to give me a place where I can briefly return. I have no problem with "home" being wherever I am. I finally realized my junior year of college that after switching majors so many time and never making up my mind that there is not one job I want to have forever. I have so many interests, and they all make up who I am.

I am at peace with the idea of changing jobs frequently; more than that, I love the idea. It makes me excited knowing I can pursue different interests in my life. If you understand that about me, it will not surprise you that I would not mind living out of a suitcase and traveling non-stop. I fully appreciate the fact that marrying and having a family will change that, but I'm single and happy to be so for now.

So far in AIM, every weekend has involved a trip somewhere. It's been wonderful, especially for someone like me who loves traveling all the time! ;) The first weekend we went to Canadian, Texas which was absolutely amazing. They are family, and I am hoping to visit again this fall at some point. Our class had one week under our belt before this trip. The church there is incredibly supportive of AIM, and God led me, walking by faith to Canadian. I was encouraged and challenged in a short weekend, but more than that, it solidified my reasons for coming to AIM. God showed me at Canadian that He had me right where He wants me. The family in Canadian holds a special place in my heart, and I am blessed by seeing their faith in action

The following weekend we went to an ice-cream social in Amherst, Texas and were blessed by the family there. What they lack in size, they make up for in love. We spent the rest of the weekend in Clovis, New Mexico. In Canadian and Clovis, I stayed with wonderful couples who made us feel right at home. I was really hoping Clovis would be my area church simply based on the support they showed to our class.

The third weekend, the last weekend in August, I went to Denver City for the Teenage Christian Conference. There were 4 great lessons, hundreds of faithful teens, and a few of the Sunset youth group there to remind us that we are to be Jesus wherever we go. That night was an Acappella concert, my third, which was amazing. I always forget just how much I love listening to Acappella. Their songs have a way of reaching to the heart of the matter and calling me out on what I need to change in my life.

As time flies, this leads me up to this past weekend when I headed to Las Vegas, New Mexico for the Sunset senior high Blue Haven retreat. The theme was "Illumination," and not only the teens were impacted by the weekend. I have a new outlook on being light in a dark world. Our skits went well, and the last one we did really impacted the teens and adults in the audience. I have a recording of it that I will try to upload in the next few days.

Blue Haven was fun but exhausting. I got to know a lot of the teens and am excited to join them every week for these next few months. Their youth group is how I wish mine had been growing up. I don't know if they even realize the impact they have as a group on everyone around them. It is so encouraging to see a group of committed Christian teens with the desire and ability to change the world. I am blessed just by hanging around them.

After Blue Haven, I needed a retreat from the retreat and that's when we found ourselves in Ruidoso, New Mexico. We were challenged to look at our hearts to examine what needs to be broken and molded by our Saviour. Our class really connected and grew together during the week, and I pray we continue to do so. Ruidoso is a beautiful mountain town, as well as a ski resort area. Just picture this covered in snow. It made me miss the Sierra Nevadas and Yosemite.

(Photo Credit: Brittney Williams)

Each day we had some free time which included ultimate frisbee, naps, taking a trip into town and hiking up to a 1930's fire lookout tower. I am grateful for the time we had to spend together away from the world, but by Friday it was time to come down off the mountain. I was at a camp for 8 days and am now ready to dive back into school and homework, but I can't wait for that next trip somewhere new ;).

-ej

::postscript::
Peregrination [per-i-gruh-ney-shuhn] -noun 
def: a course of travel; journey (dictionary.com)

::Never Forget::

“Now, we have inscribed a new memory alongside those others. It’s a memory of tragedy and shock, of loss and mourning. But not only of loss and mourning. It’s also a memory of bravery and self-sacrifice, and the love that lays down its life for a friend–even a friend whose name it never knew." 
::President George W. Bush, December 11, 2001::

(Photo Credit: Lisa Gurney)
-ej

Friday, September 03, 2010

::Retreat!::

"That perfect tranquillity of life, which is nowhere to be found but in retreat, a faithful friend and a good library." ::Aphra Behn::

I apologize for my lack of posts this week! It is the fourth week and therefore midterm. We have been busy each and every night to the point that I have barely been online this week; highly unusual for me. My tests went well, thanks for asking, but I'm very glad it's Friday!

This weekend, as a part of the Sunset area church, I am going to Blue Haven camp for the high school retreat. I am leaving in an hour for New Mexico and won't return for a full week. We will be putting on skits and doing anything that needs done. Instead of coming back to Lubbock on Monday with the rest of the group, the 5 AIMers going to Sunset congregation and our assistants will hang around the mountains of New Mexico for an extra day.

Our AIM class retreat begins on Tuesday, so we will meet up with the other AIMers at the Mountain View camp elsewhere in New Mexico. Our retreat runs from Tuesday through Friday with no cell phones, internet, movies, tv or outside distractions. I am really looking forward to 8 days away from modern society!

After I return, I promise a nice long blog post about the week and how things are going for our class. Please pray for all of the AIMers to enjoy the rest and really get to bond with each other, as well as for safe travel.

And just for your enjoyment, here's a brand new Owl City song from the movie "Legend of the Guardians." :)


-ej

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

::I Believe::

"I believe in the sun when it isn’t shining. I believe in love even when I don’t feel it. I believe in God even when He is silent."
::Found scratched into the wall of a concentration camp after the Holocaust::

Here is a challenge I received in my Old Testament Message class yesterday morning. AIM classes really get you thinking.

Have you ever thought about what would happen to your faith if you lost everything? Think right now about your greatest fear in life. One of mine is that I will wind up alone. Now, just for a moment, imagine that whatever your greatest fear is, it happens. I never marry. I find myself one day in a nursing home, no husband, no children. Or, tomorrow you get a phone call that your entire family died in a car accident. Your best friend was murdered. You lose your job, your house, everything. You are arrested for a crime you didn't commit. You find out you have terminal cancer with 6 months to live. Your life is in absolute shambles and nothing is left.

Now what do you think about God?

Do you still believe in Him?

It happened to Job.

Because God doesn't promise us a happy ending here on earth. He doesn't say that life will be fair. In fact, He tells us up front that we will go through trials, persecution. God says that LIFE IS NOT FAIR. God is more interested in the development of your faith than your physical pleasure.He loves you enough to put you through every disaster, every heartbreak, every pain, every suffering, every struggle, every disease, every hurt, every loss, every single thing we fear so that your faith will stand strong on the day of judgment.

So what about your faith?

I know the faith of one unnamed Jew, locked away in the darkness of a concentration camp, watching friends and family be murdered before his eyes. He saw Satan. And do you know what he wrote?

"I believe in the sun when it isn’t shining. I believe in love even when I don’t feel it. I believe in God even when He is silent."

Do you?

Will you believe if, for the rest of your life, all of the evidence around you says not to believe in Him?

Will you believe in God if for the rest of your life you don’t get one sign that He is with you?

But here is the amazing thing. God does put signs all around us that He loves us. The fact that you are here, breathing, alive is proof of God's love for you. He created this world for us. He gave His Son for us. Jesus died for us. God made beauty and love and truth as a sign that He loves YOU. This world is full of signs, if only we would open our eyes. Each new day, each sunrise is a sign that He is with you, even if you can't see Him. He will never leave you, even when you can't feel Him. So trust in Him, and believe. No matter what.

"When I'm feeling all alone
With so far to go
The signs are nowhere on this road
Guiding me home
When the night is closing in
Is falling on my skin
Oh God will You come close?

Light, light, light up the sky
You light up the sky to show me You are with me
I, I, I can't deny
No, I can't deny that You are right here with me
You've opened my eyes
So I can see You all around me
Light, light, light up the sky
You light up the sky to show me
That You are with me

When stars are hiding in the clouds
I don't feel them shining
When I can't see You beyond my doubt
The silver lining
When I've almost reached the end
Like a flood You're rushing in
Your love is rushing in

So I run straight into Your arms
You're the bright and morning sun
To show Your love there's nothing You won't do

Light, light, light up the sky
You light up the sky to show me You are with me
I, I, I can't deny
No, I can't deny that You are right here with me
You've opened my eyes
So I can see You all around me
Light, light, light up the sky
You light up the sky to show me
That You are with me

You are with me."


::"Light Up the Sky" by The Afters::


-ej

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

::After AIM::

"Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good for a man not to marry...I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I am." ::1 Corinthians 7:1, 7-8::

[Disclaimer: This post is about AIM and dating relationships. It's a long post, so I'm not offended if you aren't interested and don't read it. Many only know that AIM discourages dating, so I thought I would explain AIM's standpoint as well as my own opinion on the rules.]

Tonight we had a purity class. It was rather repetitive as I have heard the same message many times before, but a good reminder for all of us nonetheless. AIM, like Harding, is a place where many find their future spouses. We are united in common purpose, ideals, and time. Everything we do is with the same group of people. We live together, eat together, go to the same classes, same trips, and just hang out together. On the mission field with a smaller group, we'll do many of the same things as well as go through culture shock and grow in faith together. It's easy to see why AIMers wind up falling in love by the end of two years.

Our directors have no problem with AIMers marrying AIMers, they even encourage it-- with one major condition: that it's AFTER AIM. This is emphasized constantly. When it was announced that two of our AIM assistants got engaged two weekends ago, there was celebration as well as a reminder that they started dating AFTER AIM.

Dating is highly discouraged during AIM. It is not because there is anything wrong with dating, holding hands, or kissing. It's simply because dating is a distraction. It can be a very good distraction, but we are here for one purpose: to become a missionary apprentice. Our directors want that to be our major focus. As I came to AIM, I knew all of this. It really isn't too much to ask. I am here for that one reason: to learn how to serve God best as a missionary, not to find a mate. It's not that it's impossible to be a missionary married or even with a family; the point is that in this program, AIM, they want to limit distractions.

AIM is an intensive program for only two years. I am content knowing that I won't be getting married within two years; since there isn't even a guy right now, that's not a big deal to me. However, while AIM discourages dating, it is allowed with strict guidelines. I know quite a few AIMers who are dating, but all are in long distance relationships. The conditions are to limit physical contact completely. No holding hands, kissing, or long hugs. This may seem extreme, but there's no denying the fact that physical touch escalates a romantic relationship. That is why they don't allow it. Dating relationships also create...drama. It's hard to forget the average age of AIMers is 19. Many are just out of high school and don't know what to do without drama.

If a relationship appears to be becoming a distraction, the AIM directors will give them the option to break up and remain, or leave to pursue a more serious relationship. It's not the same as getting "kicked out," but rather I see it as a test as to where your main focus lies. A relationship does not need to get serious during these 2 years; there's plenty of time after AIM, especially if you become good friends first. Imagine a relationship built on two years of strong friendship! It's a foundation I would like for my marriage.

It may seem crazy to date without holding hands even, but really, I'm not here to date. Who knows if I will find a guy I'm interested in, but even if I do, that is not my purpose for being here. I have committed to AIM, to myself, and to God to be completely focused on learning how to serve God best as a missionary. I am not opposed to dating, but I do not want a relationship to consume my concentration for these 2 years. It's only 2 years. Why not pursue strong friendships based upon our commonalities and see where God takes us after our time on the field?

There is one other view I feel it is important to mention: the apostle Paul's. In 1 Corinthians 7 (quoted at the very beginning of this post), Paul makes an argument that it is better to stay single. Now, I personally want to get married. I want a family, and I do not want to be alone for the rest of my life. But there is truth in that some can better serve God by remaining single. Paul admits that not all have the gift to remain single; it is not a sin to marry or to remain single. Paul, however, was able to travel freely as a missionary because he was single. The same could be said for us AIMers. For now, these specific two years, we can learn and serve better as missionary apprentices while remaining single.

I realize that AIM's position is very strict. I don't know that I completely agree with it. I do know that I came to AIM knowing their rules and guidelines and agreed to follow them for the two years I am an AIMer. I knew what I was getting into; I am grateful for the intensive and focused nature of AIM. I do not believe that it is for everyone. There are other ways to serve God and become a missionary, but I felt called to this specific path. Who knows, maybe I will marry an AIMer, but I do know that any weddings will be AFTER AIM.

-ej

Sunday, August 22, 2010

::Sisterhood::

"The best thing about having a sister was that I always had a friend."
::Cali Rae Turner::

My sister came to visit me this weekend! She was driving to Arkansas from California over 3 days for college and came to stay the second night, Friday night, with me. I love my sister; she is my best friend. Even though it's only been two weeks since I saw her last, I have missed her. I got used to seeing her every day all of last year at Harding, but this year will be different. Next year will be even harder, considering I will be in another country. We plan on talking on Skype...a LOT.

If I were to plan my wedding right now (hypothetically!), my sister would, without a doubt, be my maid of honor. We are only 2 1/2 years apart, and I am grateful for the closeness of our relationship. She is the most beautiful person I know, inside and out. Even though she's younger, I look up to her as an example and an inspiration. She pushes me to be my best and to continue growing in my faith. I would not be who I am today without her; she knows me better than anyone else. It just felt right for her to be here with me in Lubbock.

I wish she could've stayed longer, but we had a wonderful afternoon looking around Lubbock Christian and touring the AIM classroom. We ate at Cracker Barrel (a favorite for both of us), and my wonderful sister even paid for my dinner! We stayed up watching Pushing Daisies and laughing, what we do best :). I know that wherever our paths take us, whether we are near or far apart, my sister will always be my best friend.

-ej

Friday, August 20, 2010

::Violin Heart Strings::

"A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy?" ::Albert Einstein::

There's something about violins and cellos that touches me more than any other instrument or sound. Violin/Cello music creates in me elation, tranquility, longing, and utter joy. When I get married one day (at least 2 years away AFTER AIM), I want violins to be played, maybe even the prelude to Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 in G; a masterpiece which has brought me to tears.

Sometime this summer, I discovered the following song played on a cello and piano which combines Taylor Swift's "Love Story" (one of my favorite songs) and Coldplay's "Viva la Vida" (with its great violin melody). It is an incredible piece of music and worth sharing. Enjoy :).



-ej