Now that I'm nearly a raw vegan, I love food shopping now. I often spend hours meandering up and down isles, reading labels and finding out what's new in the natural food section. But then it hits me:
3.09.2011
3.07.2011
No, I Didn't Quit...
Alright, Doubty McDoubterson, I didn't quit my (nearly) raw, vegan lifestyle. I wasn't ashamed of my failure and therefore avoided blogging. I simply didn't blog!So, I'm back and I have some announcements!
1.31.2011
Please Don't Kill Me
I am down to the 152lbs hover rate*. I am half way to my goal! I no longer suffer from PPS (Pinchy Pants Syndrome) and I'm relieved to not have to purchase larger clothes. However, I credit this to being sick for 8 days, with little to no appetite during that time. So, I'm halfway there on a technicality!
1.17.2011
Down for the Count
I'm down for the count. Today I woke up with a scary cough and I'm now running a fever. I don't get sick often, so I have been analyzing my entire life for the last two weeks to figure out who or what's responsible. I'm not getting answers.
1.14.2011
The Black Thumb
Dear Reader,
A raw food diet is an excellent reason to start growing your own veggies, fruit and herbs. Not only is it an inexpensive way to eat, but you also know where your food is coming from and what was put on it. My mother-in-law has full blown salads growing in her back yard. She saves hundreds of dollars each year on produce by growing it on her own. Additionally, she reaps the benefits of Vitamin D from the sun and plenty of fresh air and exercise. Back when I was a frizzy haired, glasses-wielding youngster, my mother grew an "organic" garden, taking care of the pests in safe ways (i.e. dousing broccoli heads in warm salt water to extract all the worms). Planting a garden seems like a natural activity for me this year, but I'm terrified of the looming black thumb!
It is no secret that a raw, organic diet can be pricey. But here in Lancaster County, there are roadside stands selling fresh fruit and veggies (I pass three on my way home from work!). Usually the prices are cheaper than the food stores and to be honest, I would much rather buy local, fresh produce than organics* from California.
So, do I cut off my proverbial black thumb and try my own garden this year? Or do I purchase from the ample supply of delicious Lancaster County produce?
~Sara
P.S. I completely failed the last two days. While I had fresh fruit and veggies, I also consumed white flour, refined sugar and dairy products. This diet is hard, especially if you had a rough day at work and don't feel like chopping veggies.
*The Hallelujah Diet recommends organic veggies and fruit, but does not require them. They claim that organic vegetables, along with their products BarleyMax/CarrotjuiceMax, simply help the healing process occur faster. They are not requirements in the diet.
1.11.2011
Standard American Diet
For about six years now, I have scrutinized what I ate. I usually lived by two rules: 1.) the less ingredients the better and 2.) no eating 3 hours before bedtime. But not until I started this raw food diet transition did I notice some bad habits of mine beyond my scrutiny. Almost everything I ate was either cooked or processed (cooked/preserved before packaging). Except for my raw salads, I boiled, stir-fried, or baked everything. I also had a heavy dairy intake and I never ate fresh fruit.
In general, food in its natural state is better for you. We are the only creatures on earth that cook our food. All carnivorous and herbivore animals eat their food raw. According to the Hallelujah Diet and other raw food resources, heating food over 120 degrees "kills" it. By not eating "living" food, we apparently eat less nutritious and harder to digest food.
According to the Hallelujah Diet and other raw food sources, animal products are terrible for humans. Both meat and animal by-products like dairy and eggs are extremely hard to digest.
Foods to Avoid - Hallelujah Acres website recommendations
How many of you know people who are struggling with digestive tract issues? I know at least eight people in my small circle of Lancaster County friends that have major issues varying from IBS to Celiacs Disease. They are all females and in their late twenties and early thirties. Some have had children, some do not. Most have excruciating pain and their lives are turned upside down by doctor's visits and near constant diet changes. Many times, they receive no answers and have to live with these issues. What if our Standard American Diet is the contributing factor to these problems?
I plan on researching this much further before I make any personal conclusions. I welcome input from anyone who struggles with digestive track issues.
On another note: Dinner tonight = Indian food!! Basmati rice, split peas and lentils in curry, vegetarian sausage and a big spinach salad with nuts, other fresh veggies and homemade vinaigrette dressing. Dessert? Maybe a few Fuji apple slices :)
1.10.2011
New Year's Resolution
Dear Reader,
Since I was married in August 2008, I gained 10 lbs. Petty, I know, but hear me out. At a hover rate* of 147 lbs I was content. But at a hover rate of 157 lbs, I noticed significant differences. At 27 years old, I was starting to see some health issues that worried me (beyond my slight hypochondriac tendencies):
- Right and left knee aches and pains
- Worsening eye sight (my left eye prescription is -13.0!) and retinal pinholes
- Constant low circulation (icy hands and feet)
- Occasional binge eating
- Sluggish and lazy behavior
For the last six years, I have been a full vegetarian (no meat, but I eat eggs and dairy). I rarely take medication, I consume very little caffeine and use the hormone-free Fertility Awareness Method. To many, I seem healthy. So, while thinking about losing weight, I wanted to continue the healthy trend. One fateful day at work, my friend Gail suggested I look at the website for Hallelujah Acres. The Hallelujah Diet is a diet that has helped cure cancer, facilitated dramatic weight loss, prevented amputation and reversed eye sight problems. It's a raw food diet.
Wait, a raw food diet?! I thought. Isn't that for crusty hippies who live in California, beat on their bongo drums and use patchouli oil? Or those huge muscle-builders who juice their entire kitchen every day? Needless to say, I was intrigued.
I spent significant time on the website and, for lack of a better term, it started to haunt me. Twelve days later, I can't stop thinking about it! I started to make all these connections in my head that have lead me here. This has to be my resolution! I want to lose weight and change my lifestyle this year.
So, in this digital age, I decided to blog about my experiences during the next year. I have set concrete goals (50%-50%** or higher by the end of the year) and have identified friends who are also interested in a raw food diet. I'm anticipating a difficult transition (i.e. negative reaction from family and friends, breaking bad eating habits, creating new forms of self-discipline) but an exciting result.
Thanks for reading and I encourage any questions that you may have.
~Sara
*Hover rate is my term for the average I weigh throughout the week. Sometimes I would be 1-3lbs over or under any given day depending on what time I weighed myself, what day in my cycle it was and what I ate the day before.
**The Hallelujah Diet recommends eating a diet that is 85% raw and 15% cooked. I'm starting with a 50% raw and 50% cooked diet.
6.08.2010
Certain Uncertainty
Dear Reader,
Uncertainty. Life is filled with it. People ask - what will the future look like? Will my children succeed in life? Will I leave behind a legacy when God calls me home? Life is full of mysteries, questions about the future and the unknown. God is "working to a plan" and we don't always comprehend.
Solomon in the book of Ecclesiastes picks up on the this theme. In Chapter 3 starting with verse 10, Solomon writes, "I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men, yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end." According to these verses, God has set the concern of eternity in our hearts, an indication that we are all made with a desire for more than we know in this life.
The point of the book of Ecclesiastes in simple: "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man (12:13)." God's work endures forever, and we as humans cannot add to or take away from it. But He has also given man glimpses into His mighty plan for us through the Bible. This is what I feel Solomon meant by God setting eternity in the hearts of man. We all have a desire to understand "the unknown." Through the Bible, God shows us the true meaning of life. This should direct our reverence back toward our Creator. Many people around the world, however, have yet to know their Creator and their Savior. This should drive us to our knees!
Friends, when you start feeling anxious and uncertain about what the future will hold, remember to turn to God's Word. Just as the Holy Spirit inspired the Biblical writers, He inspires and guides us in all life's circumstances. God continues to call us - and all mankind - to walk in His ways. Let's be part of God's grand divine plan for this world. At the same time, it is wonderful to realize that He is interested in all the smallest details of our lives. He knows the plans He has for us, plans to propser us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
~Sara
Uncertainty. Life is filled with it. People ask - what will the future look like? Will my children succeed in life? Will I leave behind a legacy when God calls me home? Life is full of mysteries, questions about the future and the unknown. God is "working to a plan" and we don't always comprehend.
Solomon in the book of Ecclesiastes picks up on the this theme. In Chapter 3 starting with verse 10, Solomon writes, "I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men, yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end." According to these verses, God has set the concern of eternity in our hearts, an indication that we are all made with a desire for more than we know in this life.
The point of the book of Ecclesiastes in simple: "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man (12:13)." God's work endures forever, and we as humans cannot add to or take away from it. But He has also given man glimpses into His mighty plan for us through the Bible. This is what I feel Solomon meant by God setting eternity in the hearts of man. We all have a desire to understand "the unknown." Through the Bible, God shows us the true meaning of life. This should direct our reverence back toward our Creator. Many people around the world, however, have yet to know their Creator and their Savior. This should drive us to our knees!
Friends, when you start feeling anxious and uncertain about what the future will hold, remember to turn to God's Word. Just as the Holy Spirit inspired the Biblical writers, He inspires and guides us in all life's circumstances. God continues to call us - and all mankind - to walk in His ways. Let's be part of God's grand divine plan for this world. At the same time, it is wonderful to realize that He is interested in all the smallest details of our lives. He knows the plans He has for us, plans to propser us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
~Sara
5.10.2010
Count your Blessings!
Dear Reader,
"Count your blessings! Do it now!" I remember the little magnet on my mother's refrigerator featuring a wise-looking owl, pointing his feathery wing as if he was looking directly at me. I always thought it was funny how the 'assertive' and the 'cute' balanced each other in the little creature. Aside from its humor, the magnet served its purpose - it reminded me often to count my blessings.
I need a reminder of what in my life are blessings straight from heaven. I felt convicted recently when I realized that I take for granted the gift of a car that works. God showed me that driving my car isn't a right that I am granted because I worked diligently for it. Rather it is a blessing from God who enabled me to purchase the car three years ago through my hard work. This is a different message than what we are taught by the world. In God's "upside-down Kingdom" we put the focus on God's glory and providence rather than in glorifying our own acts and deeds.
A stunning realization like the above tends to put life in perspective. James 1:17 reminds us that all good things come from above. Little things like unlimited boxes of tissues during allergy season or magnets on a refrigerator that hold reminders don't seem like big, God-type blessings. But if you believe that "every good and perfect gift is from above", we need to thank God for all our blessings, large or small.
I know this seems like basic Christianity 101. Counting blessing was taught in Sunday school, true. But I challenge you to truly meditate on God's abundant provision. What in life is a privilege from God that you could take for granted as an inherent human right?
~Sara
"Count your blessings! Do it now!" I remember the little magnet on my mother's refrigerator featuring a wise-looking owl, pointing his feathery wing as if he was looking directly at me. I always thought it was funny how the 'assertive' and the 'cute' balanced each other in the little creature. Aside from its humor, the magnet served its purpose - it reminded me often to count my blessings.
I need a reminder of what in my life are blessings straight from heaven. I felt convicted recently when I realized that I take for granted the gift of a car that works. God showed me that driving my car isn't a right that I am granted because I worked diligently for it. Rather it is a blessing from God who enabled me to purchase the car three years ago through my hard work. This is a different message than what we are taught by the world. In God's "upside-down Kingdom" we put the focus on God's glory and providence rather than in glorifying our own acts and deeds.
A stunning realization like the above tends to put life in perspective. James 1:17 reminds us that all good things come from above. Little things like unlimited boxes of tissues during allergy season or magnets on a refrigerator that hold reminders don't seem like big, God-type blessings. But if you believe that "every good and perfect gift is from above", we need to thank God for all our blessings, large or small.
I know this seems like basic Christianity 101. Counting blessing was taught in Sunday school, true. But I challenge you to truly meditate on God's abundant provision. What in life is a privilege from God that you could take for granted as an inherent human right?
~Sara
Humility and Power
Dear Reader,
Do you sometimes feel hesitant about praying for humility? I've heard many people say that they hesitate because they know God will give it to them - and that the process may be painful. Why is humility considered a negative thing? Wasn't Jesus himself the epitome of humility? Why would we hesitate to ask God for something that pleases Him?
Are we nervous about humility because we don't know what it looks like? I remember praying in the past for God to show me one real live, present-day example of humility. I wanted to see what it looked like in today's society. I wanted to see someone who was modest, virtuous and lowly. I thought if I saw a example and I liked it, then maybe I wouldn't be so hesitant to seek this character trait.
In American society today, individualism is revered sometimes more than God Himself. We often teach our children to cherish individual authority over the virtue of humility. Humility, in its true sense, is counter-cultural and is often looked down upon as "weakness." Jesus was, by no means, weak. He had within Him the power of the Holy Spirit - the same power that raised Him from the dead. So, as with Jesus, it must be possible to be humble and powerful at the same time!
A characteristic like humility is found repeatedly in the Bible. Jesus preached about it in his famous Sermon on the Mount series. Paul spoke highly of it as he described Jesus in Philippians 2. God requires humility in our relationship to Hm and to others around us; we need to plead for more of it!
I challenge you to be counter-cultural. Pray for the humility that comes only from God. He will provide this through the power of the Holy Spirit. Dare to be a shining example of humility in all you relationships, so that the world will see Christ in you.
~Sara
Do you sometimes feel hesitant about praying for humility? I've heard many people say that they hesitate because they know God will give it to them - and that the process may be painful. Why is humility considered a negative thing? Wasn't Jesus himself the epitome of humility? Why would we hesitate to ask God for something that pleases Him?
Are we nervous about humility because we don't know what it looks like? I remember praying in the past for God to show me one real live, present-day example of humility. I wanted to see what it looked like in today's society. I wanted to see someone who was modest, virtuous and lowly. I thought if I saw a example and I liked it, then maybe I wouldn't be so hesitant to seek this character trait.
In American society today, individualism is revered sometimes more than God Himself. We often teach our children to cherish individual authority over the virtue of humility. Humility, in its true sense, is counter-cultural and is often looked down upon as "weakness." Jesus was, by no means, weak. He had within Him the power of the Holy Spirit - the same power that raised Him from the dead. So, as with Jesus, it must be possible to be humble and powerful at the same time!
A characteristic like humility is found repeatedly in the Bible. Jesus preached about it in his famous Sermon on the Mount series. Paul spoke highly of it as he described Jesus in Philippians 2. God requires humility in our relationship to Hm and to others around us; we need to plead for more of it!
I challenge you to be counter-cultural. Pray for the humility that comes only from God. He will provide this through the power of the Holy Spirit. Dare to be a shining example of humility in all you relationships, so that the world will see Christ in you.
~Sara
3.04.2010
Point of Exhaustion = Success?
Dear Reader,
Recently, this verse in Philippians 4 has taken on a new meaning for me. I have been repeatedly amazed with how God has provided for me in desperate situations. Organizing a new missions conference (part of my job), with no previous experience, was a seemingly insurmountable task. However, I am confident that the conference's success was the work of God in me and not my own strength.
The center of God's will is a great place to be. In the last six months, I have been able to sit back and excitedly observe God working at my job. Daily confirmation of the hand of God occurred, giving me strength to go on. I must admit, there were times that I did not think it would be physically possible to continue when exhaustion set in.
I have read testimonies of persecuted Christian and studied the lives of the disciples and other Biblical greats who persevered in desperate situations. I remember being struck with Paul debating with himself - wanting to finish his task, yet longing to go home to be with the Lord. But God strengthened him to finish his task.
My confirmation of the truth "that we can do all thing through Christ" came through personal experience. Though most of us may never know the suffering of those persecuted around the world, we all have difficulties in our lives that drive us to the Cross. God is and always will be faithful to sustain us - stretching and molding us to be all He has created us to be.
Be assured, no matter what your current life challenge may be, that God knows what you are feeling - and He will give you the strength to carry on. Cling to His promise that we can do all thing through Christ who strengthens us!
~Sara
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Recently, this verse in Philippians 4 has taken on a new meaning for me. I have been repeatedly amazed with how God has provided for me in desperate situations. Organizing a new missions conference (part of my job), with no previous experience, was a seemingly insurmountable task. However, I am confident that the conference's success was the work of God in me and not my own strength.
The center of God's will is a great place to be. In the last six months, I have been able to sit back and excitedly observe God working at my job. Daily confirmation of the hand of God occurred, giving me strength to go on. I must admit, there were times that I did not think it would be physically possible to continue when exhaustion set in.
I have read testimonies of persecuted Christian and studied the lives of the disciples and other Biblical greats who persevered in desperate situations. I remember being struck with Paul debating with himself - wanting to finish his task, yet longing to go home to be with the Lord. But God strengthened him to finish his task.
My confirmation of the truth "that we can do all thing through Christ" came through personal experience. Though most of us may never know the suffering of those persecuted around the world, we all have difficulties in our lives that drive us to the Cross. God is and always will be faithful to sustain us - stretching and molding us to be all He has created us to be.
Be assured, no matter what your current life challenge may be, that God knows what you are feeling - and He will give you the strength to carry on. Cling to His promise that we can do all thing through Christ who strengthens us!
~Sara
1.20.2010
Be Still
Dear Reader,
A silent frost lies still on the frozen ground. All is quiet. A bird's wings flutter gently as he jumps from one evergreen branch to another. The icy grass crunches under foot of a tentative squirrel. Winter is here and the sun peaks between puffy clouds granting a degree or two of warm relief. Listen close and you may be able to hear the soft words, "Be still."
Jehovah works in mighty ways; sometimes in the midst of loud chaos and sometimes in the silent tranquility of life. The verse, "Be still and know that I am God" seems like it is written on the face of nature's winter. In the stillness, God's voice in heard by those who faithfully listen.
The Lord often commands us to be still and know that He is God. Psalms 37:7 reads, "Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes." Psalms 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Zechariah 2:13 says, "Be still before the Lord, all mankind, because He has roused Himself from His holy dwelling." Mark 4:39 reads, "He [Jesus] got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down and it was completely calm."
The power of these words is evident through the Bible. It is a command given by God to nations, individuals, leaders and nature. It suggests the right heart attitude when approaching the throne of God. Don't take this command lightly, for He promises to listen and act.
We all are struggling to be heard. We cry out "Lord, hear our prayer!" Friends, know that He faithfully listens to those who love Him. I encourage you to faithfully listen to God in stillness. Observe the stillness of nature in this cold month and see how it waits for God to act. God vibrantly renews nature in His timing every spring - will He not do the same for us? Be still, and know that HE is GOD!
~Sara
A silent frost lies still on the frozen ground. All is quiet. A bird's wings flutter gently as he jumps from one evergreen branch to another. The icy grass crunches under foot of a tentative squirrel. Winter is here and the sun peaks between puffy clouds granting a degree or two of warm relief. Listen close and you may be able to hear the soft words, "Be still."
Jehovah works in mighty ways; sometimes in the midst of loud chaos and sometimes in the silent tranquility of life. The verse, "Be still and know that I am God" seems like it is written on the face of nature's winter. In the stillness, God's voice in heard by those who faithfully listen.
The Lord often commands us to be still and know that He is God. Psalms 37:7 reads, "Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes." Psalms 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Zechariah 2:13 says, "Be still before the Lord, all mankind, because He has roused Himself from His holy dwelling." Mark 4:39 reads, "He [Jesus] got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down and it was completely calm."
The power of these words is evident through the Bible. It is a command given by God to nations, individuals, leaders and nature. It suggests the right heart attitude when approaching the throne of God. Don't take this command lightly, for He promises to listen and act.
We all are struggling to be heard. We cry out "Lord, hear our prayer!" Friends, know that He faithfully listens to those who love Him. I encourage you to faithfully listen to God in stillness. Observe the stillness of nature in this cold month and see how it waits for God to act. God vibrantly renews nature in His timing every spring - will He not do the same for us? Be still, and know that HE is GOD!
~Sara
10.20.2009
Intentional
Dear Reader,
For almost a year now, I have been volunteering at a horse rescue in Manheim. Every other Monday, I travel there after work to turn in and feed the horses that have been recently rescued. While doing this, I am developing relationship with the other volunteers. Even though I would like to think that this is only a job that benefits my love of horses, I know that God has called me to be intentional in this activity.
As you may know, I work at World Mission Associates full time - a mission organization of God followers. Beyond delivery men and postal workers, my interaction with non-believers is nearly non-existent. Because of this, I must deliberately reach out to the lost in ways beyond traveling cross-culturally or through relationships at work.
I initially learned of the term "tentmaker" when I studied the history of William Carey and the Moravians. These famous Christians worked in industries to support themselves and used that opportunity to develop relationships with the unbelievers they worked among. They understood that an effective way to evangelize was through God-inspired friendship networks, living a life that was attractive and Christ-like. They were mirroring the Apostle Paul's example.
Although I am not a tentmaker like those above, my actions are motivated by the same principle. Christianity is relational, and I intend to share God's grace with those I contact on a daily or weekly basis. God has shown me that - through my efforts at the horse rescue - I can be an evangelist while grooming horses and carrying hay bales. I do this by listening and encouraging my fellow workers, and by waiting on the Holy Spirit to open a door to share my faith.
I encourage you to become an intentional local missionary if you are not actively "rubbing shoulders" with non-believers. It may mean reaching out as a volunteer in a community organization, taking a part-time job in a Middle Eastern restaurant, or being part of a neighborhood book club. Let you life be a living testimony to those around you. Follow the advice of St. Francis of Assisi when he said, "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words." Let's point the direction toward the One who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
~Sara
For almost a year now, I have been volunteering at a horse rescue in Manheim. Every other Monday, I travel there after work to turn in and feed the horses that have been recently rescued. While doing this, I am developing relationship with the other volunteers. Even though I would like to think that this is only a job that benefits my love of horses, I know that God has called me to be intentional in this activity.
As you may know, I work at World Mission Associates full time - a mission organization of God followers. Beyond delivery men and postal workers, my interaction with non-believers is nearly non-existent. Because of this, I must deliberately reach out to the lost in ways beyond traveling cross-culturally or through relationships at work.
I initially learned of the term "tentmaker" when I studied the history of William Carey and the Moravians. These famous Christians worked in industries to support themselves and used that opportunity to develop relationships with the unbelievers they worked among. They understood that an effective way to evangelize was through God-inspired friendship networks, living a life that was attractive and Christ-like. They were mirroring the Apostle Paul's example.
Although I am not a tentmaker like those above, my actions are motivated by the same principle. Christianity is relational, and I intend to share God's grace with those I contact on a daily or weekly basis. God has shown me that - through my efforts at the horse rescue - I can be an evangelist while grooming horses and carrying hay bales. I do this by listening and encouraging my fellow workers, and by waiting on the Holy Spirit to open a door to share my faith.
I encourage you to become an intentional local missionary if you are not actively "rubbing shoulders" with non-believers. It may mean reaching out as a volunteer in a community organization, taking a part-time job in a Middle Eastern restaurant, or being part of a neighborhood book club. Let you life be a living testimony to those around you. Follow the advice of St. Francis of Assisi when he said, "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words." Let's point the direction toward the One who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
~Sara
9.25.2009
god of health and happiness vs. God
Dear Reader,
Joni Eareckson Tada, a well known American Christian leader, has a short radio program on WJTL every morning at 8:20 AM, Monday through Friday. It is the favorite part of my 15 minute commute to work each morning. Her words of encouragement and teaching are humbling and thought-provoking. Recently, while Joni was reflecting on the aches and pains of her aging mother, she described her mother full of spirit and humor. Joni then added, "God doesn't need to give you an explanation for your aches and pains, because he already explained it on the cross." What a thought!
After hearing that, I then reflected back on a verse that Joni also mentioned in the program, Isaiah 46:6, "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." What a verse!
I am only 26 years old. And someday soon I expect a gray hair or two, but that day has not approached me yet. But the verse in Isaiah is applicable to ALL people regardless of age because it shows us where the focus should be. Notice - to Whom does does the verse refer to a mere six times?
In Isaiah 46, God is speaking to the Israelites about His reaction to the gods of Babylon. God makes it very clear that there is no comparison to Him; no other is His equal. He says that He can summon a bird of prey from the east or bring a man from a far-off land to fulfill His purpose. Who can say that suffering from aches and pains aren't part of His purpose? God will bring about what He has planned to do; and we see that explained through the cross when Jesus suffered much more than aches and pains!
So I will choose to remember who God is in comparison to the gods of our time. The god of health and happiness has no power over our Holy God of Heaven and Earth. And in my suffering I choose "to take to my heart and fix in my mind," as it is written in Isaiah 46, that my pains are for the glory of God - just like the sufferings of Jesus Christ on that old rugged cross.
~Sara
Joni Eareckson Tada, a well known American Christian leader, has a short radio program on WJTL every morning at 8:20 AM, Monday through Friday. It is the favorite part of my 15 minute commute to work each morning. Her words of encouragement and teaching are humbling and thought-provoking. Recently, while Joni was reflecting on the aches and pains of her aging mother, she described her mother full of spirit and humor. Joni then added, "God doesn't need to give you an explanation for your aches and pains, because he already explained it on the cross." What a thought!
After hearing that, I then reflected back on a verse that Joni also mentioned in the program, Isaiah 46:6, "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." What a verse!
I am only 26 years old. And someday soon I expect a gray hair or two, but that day has not approached me yet. But the verse in Isaiah is applicable to ALL people regardless of age because it shows us where the focus should be. Notice - to Whom does does the verse refer to a mere six times?
In Isaiah 46, God is speaking to the Israelites about His reaction to the gods of Babylon. God makes it very clear that there is no comparison to Him; no other is His equal. He says that He can summon a bird of prey from the east or bring a man from a far-off land to fulfill His purpose. Who can say that suffering from aches and pains aren't part of His purpose? God will bring about what He has planned to do; and we see that explained through the cross when Jesus suffered much more than aches and pains!
So I will choose to remember who God is in comparison to the gods of our time. The god of health and happiness has no power over our Holy God of Heaven and Earth. And in my suffering I choose "to take to my heart and fix in my mind," as it is written in Isaiah 46, that my pains are for the glory of God - just like the sufferings of Jesus Christ on that old rugged cross.
~Sara
9.08.2009
Church Hunting Season
Dear Reader,
The Lancaster County landscape is speckled with many churches of all different shapes and sizes. Newcomers to the area can be overwhelmed with the choices: Brethren in Christ, Presbyterian, Baptist, contemporary, traditional, mega churches and house groups. My husband and I have experienced this feeling since we moved to the area last year. Both of us have grown up in a church family that has loved and nurtured us. But in a new area, a lack of family and friend connections can make finding a new church home challenging.
The true test of our faith has been during those Sunday trips from one church to another, thinking to ourselves, "Lord will we ever have true fellowship again?" We continually analyze ourselves and our actions: Were we outgoing enough? Are we too critical, or are our "checks in our spirit" correct? After each new service, the question inevitably looms before us - can we call this church our home church? I admit this process can be discouraging.
I feel Christian fellowship is a blessing, but it is not a condition of attending church. The devil tempts us into thinking that enjoying the company of other is our only reason to attend church services. First and foremost, we go to church to join in with other believers in awestruck and humble worship of the glory of the Lord. We worship through sound instruction, song and prayerful intercession. I believe that though our obedience in worship, God blesses us with joy of Christian fellowship and friendship.
It is my prayer that the churches, that Lancaster is famous for, are intentional in reaching out to the people who may be seeking a church home. I pray that each church seeks first to glorify the Lord in all they do. May the worship of our Sovereign Lord, Prince of Peace, Creator, and Best Friend take priority in our lives!
~Sara
The Lancaster County landscape is speckled with many churches of all different shapes and sizes. Newcomers to the area can be overwhelmed with the choices: Brethren in Christ, Presbyterian, Baptist, contemporary, traditional, mega churches and house groups. My husband and I have experienced this feeling since we moved to the area last year. Both of us have grown up in a church family that has loved and nurtured us. But in a new area, a lack of family and friend connections can make finding a new church home challenging.
The true test of our faith has been during those Sunday trips from one church to another, thinking to ourselves, "Lord will we ever have true fellowship again?" We continually analyze ourselves and our actions: Were we outgoing enough? Are we too critical, or are our "checks in our spirit" correct? After each new service, the question inevitably looms before us - can we call this church our home church? I admit this process can be discouraging.
I feel Christian fellowship is a blessing, but it is not a condition of attending church. The devil tempts us into thinking that enjoying the company of other is our only reason to attend church services. First and foremost, we go to church to join in with other believers in awestruck and humble worship of the glory of the Lord. We worship through sound instruction, song and prayerful intercession. I believe that though our obedience in worship, God blesses us with joy of Christian fellowship and friendship.
It is my prayer that the churches, that Lancaster is famous for, are intentional in reaching out to the people who may be seeking a church home. I pray that each church seeks first to glorify the Lord in all they do. May the worship of our Sovereign Lord, Prince of Peace, Creator, and Best Friend take priority in our lives!
~Sara
7.20.2009
The Refiner's Fire
Dear Reader,
When a metal worker wants to mold blunt metal, he doesn’t try to force is with his bare hands. He submerges a section of the metal in a hot flame until it weakens. He then begins to form it into a shape, like a blade or horseshoe. Once the metal is cooled, it’s stronger and purer than before. He repeats the process until the metal is the exact shape he wants. The refiner’s fire is the only way to mold stubborn metal into something useful, pure, and strong.
I like this imagery of a refiner. It is a symbol of our God working with His beloved people. We are the stubborn, blunt metal and He is the Skilled Refiner. He is the One who calls us be useful and strong in our work to glorify Him. But He is the only one that can create us in this manner. His holy flame is perfectly applied at the right time for the right amount of time.
But the fire isn’t the end of it. The Refiner uses tools to shape and mold us. He may hammer us flat with sudden loss of job or loved one’s life. He may grind us to a point by repeated marital struggles or chronic sickness. He may stretch and bend us by the challenge of a special needs child or a clear missionary call to an unreached people group. While difficult, this process is necessary to mold us into a more perfect servant of our Holy God.
Think back to a hard trial, or reflect on one that you may be experiencing right now. How has God used His tools to make you into the person you are today? How are you better equipped because of it? Thank God now for the Refiner’s fire.
Steve Green wrote a song about the Refiner’s fire:
There burns a fire with sacred heat, White hot with holy flame,
And all who dare pass through its blaze, Will not emerge the same; Some as bronze, and some as silver, Some as gold, then with great skill, All are hammered by their sufferings, On the anvil of His will
As we bend to the flames of life, we can trust that through suffering, we will be sanctified and strengthened. Dear friends, rejoice in suffering, trusting the promise of God that He will not only protect us, as it is written in Psalms 91, but also mold, strengthen and purify us into the beautiful creatures that He intends us to be.
~Sara
When a metal worker wants to mold blunt metal, he doesn’t try to force is with his bare hands. He submerges a section of the metal in a hot flame until it weakens. He then begins to form it into a shape, like a blade or horseshoe. Once the metal is cooled, it’s stronger and purer than before. He repeats the process until the metal is the exact shape he wants. The refiner’s fire is the only way to mold stubborn metal into something useful, pure, and strong.
I like this imagery of a refiner. It is a symbol of our God working with His beloved people. We are the stubborn, blunt metal and He is the Skilled Refiner. He is the One who calls us be useful and strong in our work to glorify Him. But He is the only one that can create us in this manner. His holy flame is perfectly applied at the right time for the right amount of time.
But the fire isn’t the end of it. The Refiner uses tools to shape and mold us. He may hammer us flat with sudden loss of job or loved one’s life. He may grind us to a point by repeated marital struggles or chronic sickness. He may stretch and bend us by the challenge of a special needs child or a clear missionary call to an unreached people group. While difficult, this process is necessary to mold us into a more perfect servant of our Holy God.
Think back to a hard trial, or reflect on one that you may be experiencing right now. How has God used His tools to make you into the person you are today? How are you better equipped because of it? Thank God now for the Refiner’s fire.
Steve Green wrote a song about the Refiner’s fire:
There burns a fire with sacred heat, White hot with holy flame,
And all who dare pass through its blaze, Will not emerge the same; Some as bronze, and some as silver, Some as gold, then with great skill, All are hammered by their sufferings, On the anvil of His will
As we bend to the flames of life, we can trust that through suffering, we will be sanctified and strengthened. Dear friends, rejoice in suffering, trusting the promise of God that He will not only protect us, as it is written in Psalms 91, but also mold, strengthen and purify us into the beautiful creatures that He intends us to be.
~Sara
6.23.2009
What's Your Mission?
Dear Reader,
I can hear Pomp and Circumstance playing in my head – it’s time for graduations! In the midst of excitement, the world bombards graduating students with questions like “what do you want to do for the rest of your live?” Questions like this shouldn’t be asked only of young graduates. We all need to answer this question at different times in our lives.
When I came to WMA, the Lord called me to “serve those who serve the Lord.” This became my mission statement. But this statement was completely different from what I thought my calling was at my graduation. In the past, I “fiddled around with” what I thought I was called to do, never knowing that God had something bigger planned. Through past experiences, God revealed how he wanted me to live my life right now.
It reminds me of Saul, a Roman Pharisee, who sought actively to advance his cause while removing anyone who got in his way. He felt this was his life calling and he “fiddled around with it.” But we know what happened. God changed his name and his direction. Amazingly, Paul became a great advocate for Christ among both Jews and Gentiles – quite contrary to what he originally thought was his life mission.
It’s important to recognize that God is continually equipping His believers. We know we are to be ambassadors for Christ, but how we go about it can change frequently. It is risky to be reluctant or resistant to changes God may want to make in our lives, regardless of our age. It’s also dangerous to lose sight of our current calling. I sometimes need constant reminding that I am serving a God who needs nothing, but who desires my fixed gaze upon Him.
I encourage you to reflect on your past “mission statements” and see how God has brought you to where you are right now. When in life were you “fiddling around” and when were you in the center of God’s calling? In hindsight, see how God has made you a part of His glorious plan for this world! And let us fix our eyes on Jesus; He can be trusted to direct us to be “on mission” for Him.
Proverbs 4:25-26, “Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.”
~Sara
I can hear Pomp and Circumstance playing in my head – it’s time for graduations! In the midst of excitement, the world bombards graduating students with questions like “what do you want to do for the rest of your live?” Questions like this shouldn’t be asked only of young graduates. We all need to answer this question at different times in our lives.
When I came to WMA, the Lord called me to “serve those who serve the Lord.” This became my mission statement. But this statement was completely different from what I thought my calling was at my graduation. In the past, I “fiddled around with” what I thought I was called to do, never knowing that God had something bigger planned. Through past experiences, God revealed how he wanted me to live my life right now.
It reminds me of Saul, a Roman Pharisee, who sought actively to advance his cause while removing anyone who got in his way. He felt this was his life calling and he “fiddled around with it.” But we know what happened. God changed his name and his direction. Amazingly, Paul became a great advocate for Christ among both Jews and Gentiles – quite contrary to what he originally thought was his life mission.
It’s important to recognize that God is continually equipping His believers. We know we are to be ambassadors for Christ, but how we go about it can change frequently. It is risky to be reluctant or resistant to changes God may want to make in our lives, regardless of our age. It’s also dangerous to lose sight of our current calling. I sometimes need constant reminding that I am serving a God who needs nothing, but who desires my fixed gaze upon Him.
I encourage you to reflect on your past “mission statements” and see how God has brought you to where you are right now. When in life were you “fiddling around” and when were you in the center of God’s calling? In hindsight, see how God has made you a part of His glorious plan for this world! And let us fix our eyes on Jesus; He can be trusted to direct us to be “on mission” for Him.
Proverbs 4:25-26, “Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.”
~Sara
6.17.2009
Spiritual Obesity
Dear Reader,
I recently heard a term for the first time: spiritual obesity. The person who used it said she suffered from spiritual obesity when she was younger. While at church and Bible school, she was being well-fed, but her output was lacking. This was an intriguing concept to me.
We know that obesity occurs when the input far outweighs the output; if you consume many calories but don’t exert anything, you’ll become unhealthy and overweight. I know when my intake offsets my output. I feel sluggish and my attitude has a tendency to be negative. It takes a jumpstart to get me moving again.
We can experience this in our spiritual life: being overfed with knowledge without any exercise of that new understanding. I feel there is a direct link between spiritual obesity and inactivity in the church, community and world. And spiritual inactivity has a way of leading to complaining, gossiping, and indifference. When we have the privilege of breathing in God’s Word, it strengthens us spiritually to share what we have learned with others. What good is it to hear about of Jesus’ life, but not exercise His teachings of humility, mercy, and salvation?
Just as God blessed Abraham in order for him to bring about a blessed nation, we also are blessed in order to serve others. In America, we are blessed with many Gospel centered churches, bible schools and seminaries, and even Bible.com. It is easy for us to be “full” of spiritual knowledge. But it is just as easy not to exercise our spiritual muscles, which is not God’s intention. We, too, have been blessed, not to “sit on” our spiritual riches, but to share them with the world.
I believe God calls us to be spiritually fit. But unlike fad diets or weight-loss pills, this is not a temporary or quick transformation. It’s a lifestyle change. For instance, volunteering and donating money around Christmas time won’t keep you spiritually fit all year round. Physically and spiritually we need to eat and exercise every day.
So start getting active! Start proclaiming the Good News of His glory through service and example. Ask God to show us how to increase our spiritual output – just as we remember to nourish ourselves daily through prayer and Bible study.
~Sara
I recently heard a term for the first time: spiritual obesity. The person who used it said she suffered from spiritual obesity when she was younger. While at church and Bible school, she was being well-fed, but her output was lacking. This was an intriguing concept to me.
We know that obesity occurs when the input far outweighs the output; if you consume many calories but don’t exert anything, you’ll become unhealthy and overweight. I know when my intake offsets my output. I feel sluggish and my attitude has a tendency to be negative. It takes a jumpstart to get me moving again.
We can experience this in our spiritual life: being overfed with knowledge without any exercise of that new understanding. I feel there is a direct link between spiritual obesity and inactivity in the church, community and world. And spiritual inactivity has a way of leading to complaining, gossiping, and indifference. When we have the privilege of breathing in God’s Word, it strengthens us spiritually to share what we have learned with others. What good is it to hear about of Jesus’ life, but not exercise His teachings of humility, mercy, and salvation?
Just as God blessed Abraham in order for him to bring about a blessed nation, we also are blessed in order to serve others. In America, we are blessed with many Gospel centered churches, bible schools and seminaries, and even Bible.com. It is easy for us to be “full” of spiritual knowledge. But it is just as easy not to exercise our spiritual muscles, which is not God’s intention. We, too, have been blessed, not to “sit on” our spiritual riches, but to share them with the world.
I believe God calls us to be spiritually fit. But unlike fad diets or weight-loss pills, this is not a temporary or quick transformation. It’s a lifestyle change. For instance, volunteering and donating money around Christmas time won’t keep you spiritually fit all year round. Physically and spiritually we need to eat and exercise every day.
So start getting active! Start proclaiming the Good News of His glory through service and example. Ask God to show us how to increase our spiritual output – just as we remember to nourish ourselves daily through prayer and Bible study.
~Sara
5.04.2009
A Haunting in the Shower
About one year ago, just as I was preparing for my wedding to the man of my dreams, I experienced a haunting. It was frequent and occurred when I was in the shower, the one area that I was quietly by myself, without distractions. I was “visited” by an ex-boyfriend in my thoughts. He had hurt me two years ago and I had successfully moved on by the power and forgiveness of God. Or so I thought...
Unfortunately, this haunting had tremendous power over me. I couldn’t rid my mind of one or two experiences that would play over and over again in my mind. It would frustrate me and occupy my thoughts. I shared it with Johnny and prayed about it, but the haunting wouldn’t go away. I was desperate!
After awhile a soft Voice whispered, “Forgive him.” I thought, “Pfft, I have already!” But It urged, “Forgive him.” The Holy Spirit quietly told me that while I may have moved on and forgiven the relationship as a whole, there were a lot of little events that happened within that relationship that I had not given up. So, over the next couple of days, I did. I forgave him for the things that secretly ate away at my spirit. This is how (with no need to call the Ghostbusters):
Haunting: The feeling of uncontrollable loneliness and the pain of sharp hurtful words at a certain event.
Action: “Lord God, as you have forgiven me, I forgive him for making me feel lonely and neglected, especially at _____. I forgive his friends for encouraging him to ignore our relationship and hang with them. I forgive him for calling me _____ and saying I was ______.”
And as the shampoo bottle suggests: “Lather, rinse, REPEAT”
I did this over and over as each memory popped into my head out loud (my roommate probably thought I was nuts talking to myself in the shower). Proclaiming it out loud was imperative to me as well as being specific. And above that, I meant it. One can’t forgive someone through clenched fist and teeth.
Slowly, I could almost hear the chains of the past clang onto the ground. I was experiencing true liberation from bondage of underground unforgiveness. It was like the first breath of air after a long, hard day at work; like the first summer step into the cool waves of the ocean; like running with all your might through an open field as though you were ten again; like the feeling you get when you look into a child’s eyes who truly loves you back. God freed me and I felt joy!
To be honest, this was difficult to write, not because it stirrs up old hurts, but because I couldn't remember why I was so hurt and angry. God showed me how to honestly "forgive and forget." HA!
If you are experiencing a haunting of the past, then there may be some unforgiveness in your heart. Maybe begin by taking a shower and asking God to bring any unforgiveness to your mind. But do it, so that you can wave goodbye to the ghosts of the past and move on into joy!
Unfortunately, this haunting had tremendous power over me. I couldn’t rid my mind of one or two experiences that would play over and over again in my mind. It would frustrate me and occupy my thoughts. I shared it with Johnny and prayed about it, but the haunting wouldn’t go away. I was desperate!
After awhile a soft Voice whispered, “Forgive him.” I thought, “Pfft, I have already!” But It urged, “Forgive him.” The Holy Spirit quietly told me that while I may have moved on and forgiven the relationship as a whole, there were a lot of little events that happened within that relationship that I had not given up. So, over the next couple of days, I did. I forgave him for the things that secretly ate away at my spirit. This is how (with no need to call the Ghostbusters):
Haunting: The feeling of uncontrollable loneliness and the pain of sharp hurtful words at a certain event.
Action: “Lord God, as you have forgiven me, I forgive him for making me feel lonely and neglected, especially at _____. I forgive his friends for encouraging him to ignore our relationship and hang with them. I forgive him for calling me _____ and saying I was ______.”
And as the shampoo bottle suggests: “Lather, rinse, REPEAT”
I did this over and over as each memory popped into my head out loud (my roommate probably thought I was nuts talking to myself in the shower). Proclaiming it out loud was imperative to me as well as being specific. And above that, I meant it. One can’t forgive someone through clenched fist and teeth.
Slowly, I could almost hear the chains of the past clang onto the ground. I was experiencing true liberation from bondage of underground unforgiveness. It was like the first breath of air after a long, hard day at work; like the first summer step into the cool waves of the ocean; like running with all your might through an open field as though you were ten again; like the feeling you get when you look into a child’s eyes who truly loves you back. God freed me and I felt joy!
To be honest, this was difficult to write, not because it stirrs up old hurts, but because I couldn't remember why I was so hurt and angry. God showed me how to honestly "forgive and forget." HA!
If you are experiencing a haunting of the past, then there may be some unforgiveness in your heart. Maybe begin by taking a shower and asking God to bring any unforgiveness to your mind. But do it, so that you can wave goodbye to the ghosts of the past and move on into joy!
4.23.2009
Life Verse
Dear Reader,
This is my life verse: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual act of worship. Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2 (ESV)
Everyone is familiar with Verse 1, but I love how Paul continues into the next verse with practical ways of being a living sacrifice:
Do not conform to the world, Paul says. We should be counter-cultural, against the secular ways of the world. Historical patterns of the world are cyclical: redemption, temptation, sin, despondency, God’s intervention, redemption...Paul says don’t conform to the downward cycle! Resist what tempts you! Don’t wait for God to intervene to repent of your sins!
Paul also says renew your mind. This should be a continual process of adapting our minds to the mind of God. Sometimes that doesn’t make much sense to me; but I know the way to know God’s mind is through communication with Him – through His Word and through prayer. It takes time to know God, just as it takes time to know a friend.
In summation, Paul says to discern by testing what God’s will is for this world. I believe Paul is explaining that we ought to be able to determine or prove God’s will as if it was our own. When we truly approve of something, it’s because we test and examine it – as a scientist tests a theory. Testing gives validity to our approval.
I like how Paul incorporates one’s entire being into these two verses. Think of it this way: Do not PHYSICALLY conform to the world. Renew your MIND. SPIRITUALLY test and approve God’s will. In two verses, Paul suggests that it takes our body, mind and spirit to be a living sacrifice. God wants us to worship Him with all that we are, yielded ourselves to Him in love. Can you see now why this powerful passage is my life verse? I encourage you to choose a life verse, if you don’t have one already. Feel free to share yours with me!
~Sara
This is my life verse: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual act of worship. Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2 (ESV)
Everyone is familiar with Verse 1, but I love how Paul continues into the next verse with practical ways of being a living sacrifice:
Do not conform to the world, Paul says. We should be counter-cultural, against the secular ways of the world. Historical patterns of the world are cyclical: redemption, temptation, sin, despondency, God’s intervention, redemption...Paul says don’t conform to the downward cycle! Resist what tempts you! Don’t wait for God to intervene to repent of your sins!
Paul also says renew your mind. This should be a continual process of adapting our minds to the mind of God. Sometimes that doesn’t make much sense to me; but I know the way to know God’s mind is through communication with Him – through His Word and through prayer. It takes time to know God, just as it takes time to know a friend.
In summation, Paul says to discern by testing what God’s will is for this world. I believe Paul is explaining that we ought to be able to determine or prove God’s will as if it was our own. When we truly approve of something, it’s because we test and examine it – as a scientist tests a theory. Testing gives validity to our approval.
I like how Paul incorporates one’s entire being into these two verses. Think of it this way: Do not PHYSICALLY conform to the world. Renew your MIND. SPIRITUALLY test and approve God’s will. In two verses, Paul suggests that it takes our body, mind and spirit to be a living sacrifice. God wants us to worship Him with all that we are, yielded ourselves to Him in love. Can you see now why this powerful passage is my life verse? I encourage you to choose a life verse, if you don’t have one already. Feel free to share yours with me!
~Sara
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