Adventures with a horse named Bullseye

Review of Nearing Home

2011-12-26T08:57:00.000-06:00

I just finished reading Billy Graham’s “Nearing Home,” which I received from booksneeze.com. This is the first time I’ve read something by Billy Graham, and I have to admit it was amazing. He is a great writer, even at 92. It is amazing how easily his faith bleeds through the pages and he can’t help, but add the gospel into this book on aging well. He used several good stories to show what to do and not to do. All subjects in the book Graham has experienced, and he writes as an authority on the subject. I don’t think you could be too young to read this book, despite its topic. We are all going to get old one day and Graham shows how to do it for the glory of God. He covers topics such as aging, handling grief, comforting others and, of course, the gospel. It didn’t take me long to read this book of 180 pages. All it took was one good rainy afternoon and I zoomed through it. It was hard to put down. I’m eager to pass this book on to my grandmother, although I think she may know a whole lot on this subject. I’m hoping I’ll be able to find more books by Billy Graham because he is such a good writer. I encourage this book for everyone, no matter the age. At some point, everything in this book will be encountered by every individual. Unfortunately, we aren’t getting any younger so we might as well do it for the glory of God.

Review of The Sacred Meal

2011-11-29T09:12:00.002-06:00

Well first off, I lost this book for months and finally found it stashed away while moving. My favorite part of this book is its cover, which makes it look really nice sitting on the back of my toilet or on my coffee table. I guess that sounds bad for the book, but it’s really pretty. OK, the book I’m talking about is “The Sacred Meal” by Nora Gallagher, a commentary on communion. Booksneeze.com sent this book to me by request. It was a good read despite losing the book for so long. The author describes her experiences with communion and how it relates to Christianity and the world. I disagreed with her on several things and a couple of comments made were wrong. I actually was talking to a friend after reading this, and she laughed at me as I explained it. I did like the way the author wrote and how she described her experiences with communion. The best way I could described it is poetic and mystical. Afterward I was ready to go talk to my pastor about taking communion more in our church. I think one of the things I was expecting was more of a history and a way of communion. It’s more of a “these are my experiences” and a relation to Christianity book. Overall, I did enjoy. And the cover is pretty.

Love Story

2011-08-20T22:46:00.002-05:00

A couple of weekends ago, I was spending some time with a couple of friends at the lake. One of them said she would like to read a sexy romance novel. We, of course, both looked at her strange and then she made the comment she found “Redeeming Love” by Francine Rivers very sexy. This is when we both chuckled to ourselves and continued to talk. This is a novel based off Hosea about a marriage between a godly man and a prostitute. It’s an awesome read, one I highly suggest. Now it isn’t sexy like you might think of a Nora Roberts’s book. It’s a romance which centers around a relationship based on God.

Last night I was thinking about this.

Have we twisted romance into something it’s not? I would have to say yes.

Most love stories revolve around nonexistent themes, giving little girls the idea they’ll have these fake romances one day. A typical romance book (not novel, because most of these books are too simple to be labeled a novel) involves some overly sensitive, yet buff male who sweeps the young lady off her feet, carries her to bed and then at some point maybe weds her. The last part is optional. Most of these books have the same storyline and after the third or fourth reading of a romance book anyone with any sense knows what will happen.

Let’s look at a book that may or may not have the sex part. Now I’ll admit I enjoy Nicholas Sparks every now and then, although it’s been a while. Actually “A Walk to Remember” is one of my favorites. I’ve given these novels a new name. Well, I stole this name from another article: emo porn. The odds of any of these romances happening are slim to none. In fact, if the guy from “The Notebook” was real, we would call him a stalker.

This isn’t love. It’s not real and getting lost in this world is not good for you. It’s like a man who watches porn. You are going to start expecting something from men which they are not. You are going to expect a romance to blossom in a way it can. Not every love story involves a man jumping on a carousal to ask you out or a smoking hot cowboy riding up on his pony all hot and sweaty and still smelling good to ride you off in the sunset. Mr. Carousal would be either a stalker or would give up and, sorry, but the stinking cowboy is more likely to make like Matt Dillon.

These fantasies make love into something it’s not. For one thing, well, there’s carousal guy and I’ve already covered that. Now I’m still single so I can’t comment on love or marriage or anything other than what I’ve seen. True love isn’t the sparks at the beginning or falling into love just to jump into bed. (Honestly, falling into love sounds painful. I’m not a big fan of falling. Or pain.)

The most beautiful romances I’ve seen are the ones which have gone through the trials, stood by each other’s sides, raised a family, have put up with each other for 40-60 plus years and still are hanging in there. I like to think of my grandparents. I know they’re marriage has definitely not been smooth sailing. Actually how they ended up together is kinda sweet, but that’s beside the point.

For instance, granddaddy had a total knee done about a year ago. When he came home, grandma was helping him into the house and I was standing behind for support. Right before he reached the top step they had to stop and kiss for a moment. It was incredibly sweet. Watching them is amazing and finding out their stories is also pretty cool…even the bad stuff. Because that’s what makes love amazing: going through trials together with God at the center supporting everything and coming out still in love at the end.

Now since I’ve spent the whole time talking about bad romance books let me tell you what to read. Read the Bible. It’s the ultimate love story. For the first time ever I’m almost done reading it straight through. I’ve tried before and got a little distracted. Beside the point. The Bible is the ultimate love story of a gentleman Pursuer who is patiently waiting for His bride. The more I read the more I realize how much Jesus really loves me. Which in turn makes me love Him more. My favorite book of the Bible has become Ruth, and it isn’t so much the love story between Ruth and Boaz, but because it actually represents the love story between Christ and me.

Awww, it gives me chill bumps just typing it. What more do I need, really? J

2011-08-01T11:05:00.000-05:00

So in about three hours I will be loaded in a car on my way to my first youth camp where I will spend five days with 50 teenagers, the hot sun and lots of Jesus. Yes, I'm excited. A little nervous, too. In honor of this I've decided to write a blog so my number one fan has a little surprise since she won't see me all week. Course I have no idea what I'm writing about, so I'm just going to keep typing until this thing seems complete.
I guess I could and talk about how much of an amazing weekend I had with two amazing friends. It's not often I take a weekend and do absolutely nothing. It's definitely good for the soul. Jesus did it often and really, I should be following His example and withdrawing from the craziness of the crowds. Maybe if I were to fit more of these weekends into my schedule, weekends filled with friends and Jesus, I wouldn't get quite so stressed.
You also need good friends. I've written on this before, but it's on my mind. Friends who are going to be blunt with you when you're being an idiot. And love ya while doing it. Ones who will quote Winnie the Pooh quotes even though you roll your eyes. (OK, I'm not really sure I know how to roll my eyes.) Friends who will swim with ya and cheer while you touch a wall. Yay number one fan!!
One whole weekend with good talks. I feel refreshed and ready for anything. Maybe even youth camp.
Oh! And as if that wasn't enough Jesus was all showing off Friday night with some shooting stars. They were beautiful.
Ahhh, what a weekend.
:)

Savior, Pilot Me

2011-07-16T19:41:00.001-05:00

Now for the past couple of weeks I have been thinking more and more about God's will. It's always been something on my mind. Many times I have asked myself what is His will for my life? Now I think this has just been something I've been asking. Something I like to think would be nice, but really who has complete control. For a long time the answer has been me.
What's bad is I thought I was good at following? The thing is, I was up to a point, but then if it went off my path then I'm grabbing the reins. Like I was asking what newspaper should I apply for or help me with this interview. I didn't stop to ask "hey, should I be a reporter?"
Confession time: I did not stop and ask God if I should be a reporter. I didn't ask Him if I should go to Auburn. To get right down to it, I didn't even ask if I should go to college. I decided in seventh grade I would go to Auburn, major in journalism and become a reporter. Never did I take in consideration God's will. Not until now.
Now I can't say the past year has been because of my stubbornness of following my own plans. Sailing my own boat. Steering my own horse. Manning my own...you get the picture. Maybe this past year has been my big fish God used to grab my attention.
I can almost hear Him saying "OK stupid. You've had your own way long enough. It's time to give it to Me."
So I've been down on my knees a lot lately handing everything over. I think I'm starting to understand what He wants to. He's giving me only one step at a time. What's different is, yea I'm a little unsteady, but it's a good unsteady. I am confident His way is right. I've known it all along, but I've been hanging on to control. I'm tired of chasing my own dreams and coming up short. The last couple of years may have been a waste, but it's what I needed to get my attention.
Thank you God for refining me like gold and silver.

Proverbs 17:3

Top Five

2011-07-03T16:04:00.001-05:00

Now most of the time I don't have any time for movies or television. If anything I'm going to read before I turn the tube on. I'm strange, yes. I would just rather spend what little spare time I have in the Word. If you think I'm saying this to make myself sound more holy, I'm not. I'm just your run-of-the-mill girl who likes to read. And has ADD when it comes to sitting there watching t.v. My brother is the opposite.
Today, though, as we flip between the Braves (who are losing) and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, I'm thinking back on some of the great titles I think everyone should see. My number fan will probably disagree, but that's OK. I'm going to name some off anyway. These aren't the best of all time because I think it would take me a long time to narrow down a top ten list. Just some good movies. Actually I'm going to target the ones my mom decided I had to watch as a kid. I'll show them to my kids one day. (Braves just lost by one point, btw.)
1) Chitty Chitty Bang Bang - I'm watching it right now. It's a great movie with lots of adventure, fantasy and Dick Van Dyke. I loved it as a kid and still hold it in my heart (yes, I'm a dork). I loved the toys and the saving of the kids. The rise of the kids and toys at the end is great. At this point I'm thinking I'm horrible at reviews. It is a good movie. Go watch it. It even has a little romance...because I know some people like that kinda stuff. There were several old movies like this one we loved to watch. They're great. Family friendly. Mom went on a spree of showing them to us one time.
2) There were two trilogies my mom had us watch. One of which was Indiana Jones. To this day I love these movies. They're hilarious and the adventures are awesome. Great scenes. "You call him Dr. Jones, doll!" Ahhhh! Such memories. No one can forget the priceless scenes...which I'm not describing. You'll have to go watch them.
3) Stars Wars (original movies) The other trilogy we got to watch. No one can forget Luke Skywalker and all his friends as he rises from farm boy to Jedi warrior. Like Indiana Jones, you also had Harrison Ford to entertain you the entire time. See a trend. Also let me point out both series had a little romance for those who like that (number one fan).
4) I was a big Disney fan and think every kid should be introduced to their movies. Especially the originals like Robin Hood, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King...the list goes on and on. What could incorporate music, humor, action, romance into one movie and make it fun for all ages. Disney can. They've been doing it for years.
5) I almost forgot Herbie the Love Bug. I've heard many people say they didn't like these movies, but I liked them. Herbie was awesome. I want to have a little bug like him. In fact, my first care kinda reminded me of him. Great movies although I may be the only one who actually likes them. Well, my mom likes them to. She's the one who introduced it.
Here's a list of 5 movies. Actually if you ever numbered the movies linked to each one it's more than five. Anyway, I recommend these movies for adults and kids alike. OK, time to read Hebrews.

For My Number One Fan

2011-07-02T22:14:00.001-05:00

So my number one fan told me to write a blog. Being the nice person I am, I decided to go ahead with one. Just to satify temporary because I am a little sleepy. Here are her suggestions (I would have just written down my dreams of becoming a boxer): 1. dating I really liked your Discretion blog and i think there is room to expand 2. Clothes and how we put way to much thought into it (feel free to use me as a case study i know i have a problem lol)3. The importants of having good christian friends. ( Sorry for any incorrect grammer, spelling, etc. It's a copy and past. Here it goes:
1) I'm not expanding on discretion or maybe I am. Actually, I may have already written about it. I've noticed people have a fascination in setting people up together. It doesn't make sense why it happens. Although everyone I know thinks they are amazing match makers I have yet to meet someone with any success. I'm speaking from experience. Yes, I like meeting new people. People are fun and interesting and all that good stuff. Somehow I don't think God is behind many of these setups. All you have to do is step back and let Him work. He knows what He's doing; He's been doing since Adam and Eve. I think He has it under control. I know you think you have the perfect match for your friends, but the odds are against. Please, let God do His job.
2) All right, I'm using friend as a case study. Maybe I'm just sleepy, but I can't think of how. I'm not sure I'm the right person to talk about this. Yes, I think about what I wear. I want to look nice to go to church. When I wear a dress or makeup, it's typically for Jesus. Just throwing that out there. It's good to dress up for church most of the time...I usually try to wear nice shirts and good jeans. I have to dress nice to go to work. It's kinda a requirement so I do it. If I'm going to dress up, I'm doing it right. It's another reason I usually don't go all out on Sunday. Jesus loves me as I am. Clothes define some people...or so they think. I've learned this more from observation. Want to act tough or like you don't care then wear black or emoish clothes. Want to be a jock: wear underarmor. Etc. Me. I like to be comfortable. I also want to look nice and some shirts I get really excited about. Like when I run a race and get a shirt I wear it that Sunday afternoon. No one usually notices, but I'm proud. OK, this probably has nothing to do with what she wanted so I'm moving on.
3) I have great friends and they are definitely from God. Everyone needs them. If you are hanging out with people who don't love Jesus, odds are they are going to drag you down. People want to impress. Unless you are solid in the faith, so solid you can handle peer pressure, then you need to be around good people. Christian friends. Bad company corrupts character. (Somewhere in Proverbs. Read the whole book and tell me where it is. You probably need to read your Bible anyway). Yes, your friends need Jesus. But hanging out with just these lost people will hurt you. God will provide Godly friends if you ask for them. It's one thing He won't say no too. Pray for them. Sincerely. They'll uplift. They'll support. They'll provide Godly advice.

OK here are my three topics. Bed time.

Discretion

2011-05-07T22:12:00.001-05:00

So I already put one post up here today, but I've been thinking about something all weekend and thought this was the best place to rant about it. Discretion. A lot of people don't have it and it's something I think should be discussed and my blog. (Jenn should be very excited to see 2 posts in one day.)
In a way, it could play off my last one...although not how people may see me as using it. Discretion should not be based on a person's color, ethnicity, hair color or whatever appearance they portray. That being said let me get to my point.
I've noticed that a lot of girls have no discretion in choosing people they wish to date. I'm not talking just about my friends; I mean girls period. It's something I've discussed with my dad before...been discussing for years...many because it frustrates me. There are good guys out there and it seems many girls go for the sorry ones. The gangbangers, pot heads, whatever. It's like this joke Jeff Foxworthy once said about how most women won't dangerous men. He went on to say, yea the ones who end up on COPS hanging out the door yelling "lock him up." beep beepity beep.
I'm not judging a guy by his appearances. If you're dating who looks bad, but isn't I'm not talking about you. That talks me back to the don't judge on appearances at the top. I'm talking about girls I hear about who are dating gangbangers. (This is not a term I came up with.)
I've always noticed that girls chase after these guys who will never take care of them. I mean, if a guy can not hold down a job he probably won't take care of you. I don't want to be the one supporting my man unless something horrible goes wrong in our life (i.e. he wakes up paralyzed...true story. Check out some Mark Driscoll sermons. Actually, Mark Driscoll has great sermons on this subject.)
Also don't let him push you around or speak with you in any tone which isn't respectful. The moment he leaves a bruise on you, this boy needs to be gone. He is not worth your time.
And don't think you are going to get this guy saved just because you are dating him and dragging him to church. If he's up front and says he doesn't believe in God or his entire life changes the moment he met you, something's up. I can put up appearances for a while until I get what I want. Well, I usually don't, but you get the picture. Dating is not a mission project.
Ladies, please think before dating a guy. Pay attention to how he acts, who he hangs out with, what he sticks in his mouth, his language, how he treats everyone from his mom to that little kid down the street. Everything. You have to use discretion when looking for a man to spend the rest of your life with. I don't know statistics very well, but I can say 50 percent of marriages do end in divorce. From observation, I've noticed many women who either support their husbands because they won't get a job. Men who care more about taking care of their self than their wife and kids.
All right. I'm done ranting. I'm hoping I didn't offend anyone, but I had to get that out.
One more thing. You are the daughter of the King and as that you deserve the best. God will provide a good man who will love you and spend his entire life with you. You'll be sitting on the front porch swing watching your grandbabies one day after a life spent chasing after God.

Dream On

2011-05-07T16:08:00.000-05:00

There's an old song by INXS which sings about interracial dating called original sin. Back in high school I listed to this school a lot...it has a great sound. Now I really don't listen to secular music (which I have addressed in another blog), but it's still a pretty good song. Look it up if you haven't taken my secular music fast.

Now I used this song to open my blog because I thought I'd discuss an issue that at times can be controversial and when it's not, people discuss how it can be. Different generations view it in different lights and time periods.

What I'm talking about, as you can probably see from my intro song, is interracial dating. For a while it had been on my mind after discussing it with several people, but now I've decided to branch on the subject.

Interracial dating has become more prominent in the last several years, but people still hold strong opinions on the subject. Nearly every person my age has no problem with it and several of my friends are interested in people of different races. I wouldn't think twice if my friend introduced me to su novio Pedro. The difference in opinions of more recent generations steams from more exposure to it than around 30 years ago. This isn’t a bad thing; it allows people to see it is OK.

On the other hand there are people I look up to who are completely against. As long as they aren't harassing or badmouthing my friends, I do not mind their opinions. I just disagree with them.

I may not have read through the whole Bible (well, I probably have...just not consecutively), but I have never found anywhere where God condemns interracial dating. In fact, Moses married a black woman (Exodus 2:21) and they had two sons. Her father, Jethro (coolest father-in-law name ever) was later mentioned and helped Moses (Exodus 18).

Solomon also took women of other races to be his wives, but he had a billion women so I don't think that counts.

As we come closer to the end, we'll become more and more alike anyway. I don't the color of your mate will matter in the long run. As long as Jesus is the basis of your relationship and you have allowed Him to lead you.

I've heard many biblical arguments, but most of them have to do with being unequally yoked and that doesn't have anything to do with races. I tried to do some research on interracial relationships on the internet and there were a few Web sites strongly arguing against it because God wanted the peoples to remain separate.

People disagree with it for different reasons coming from they think races should be kept separate, stereotypes and pure racism (although I don't think most of them are racists.) I’m not an expert by any means. If we’re going to argue races are not meant to be mixed the my entire country and the people I love are mistakes. Take my heritage for instance: I’m German, Irish, English and about ¼ Cherokee Indian. I’m a mutt. Americans, with maybe a few exceptions, are mutts. One hundred years ago, or so, Americans were angry Irish were moving into their country and I’m pretty sure they didn’t want their children marrying them.

You can’t tell me this is different.

This isn’t a topic I usually discuss outside of a few conversations and I don’t spend a whole lot of time thinking about it. Outside of one argument with a family member, which was actually kinda defensive until I said it was stupid to argue, I’ve never had a steamed discussion about it. But I thought I’d lay down some thoughts and stick them out there.

By the way, Jesus loves you!

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-06T19:17:00.000-05:00

With Mother's Day this weekend, I thought I'd do the right thing and write a little something about my own amazing mom. And all mothers like her. And the extra women God has thrown into my life who have become second mother figures to me.
My mom, of course, is number one. She means the world to me. From the moment of birth she has always been there for me and will be there in the future. And yes, we have had our share of disagreements, but she has been a voice of reason many times. I can confide in mom and she has a way of telling me things, showing me the right way.
When my parents went through their divorce, mom took it hard. But she was able to overcome so well and be there for me and Alex. I look back and think about how solid she could be. She was going to take care of us. I don't know what I would've done without her.
I have so many memories of my mom. Wow, I just stopped and thought back and was flooded. Then I stopped typing. I guess I should give you some examples. Hehe
Like when she would sit me down and teach me how to pray and read the Bible. Going camping in Gulf Shores. Walking in the neighborhood or going to the Fayetteville...I think I liked the ride more than anything. Playing with grandma's trainset and kicking Alex out of the room.
My mom is absolutely amazing. I love her! I am so thankful God allowed me to have her.
Unfortunately we are separated by a hour and a half drive. I call often, but it's still far off. I don't usually miss people. I don't know. But sometimes I miss my mom like crazy.
God has allowed other women into my life. None of them rank quite like my mom, but they are there when I need them. I told one the other day she was my second mommy and she asked how many second mommies I have. I had to stop and count later. I came up with four main ones and then a whole bunch more who pitch in. I love them all. I need the support and the extra mentoring and directing. They'll never add up to my own mom who has raised me into the woman I have become and continue to direct me in the years to come. I'll never get as excited as when I know I'm either going to Griffin to see mom or she's driving down her.

One day I hope I can be a mom as great as my mom. I probably won't be quite as good, but I'm going to try. Plus I'm sure I'll have a ton of help. I look forward to that day when I can celebrate Mother's Day from the other side. But until then I'm going to shower my mom with the love she deserves, although it doesn't come close to what all she's done for me. Thanks Mom! You are the absolute best! I love you!!!

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

2011-05-02T18:04:00.000-05:00

I remember going out to the ball field when I was a little kid and watching my little brother play baseball. He wasn't the best player in the world (by the standards of the Opelika Rec), but he loved the game and he tried his best. In fact, there was one game when he scored the only point in the whole game. I can't remember if he got walked or if he hit the ball, but he scored all the bases to win for his team.
Many times I tried to get out of watching the hour or so of little league. Only once did I succeed and with the exception of a few games, I think I saw every game he played. Of course, he doesn't play now. For a little while he was playing church softball and I'd watch those games. My little sister was also into softball, which held me over for a while. Until about middle school or maybe high school I really didn't like going to these games, other than for moral support. It was boring to sit on the belchers and watch this sport. My favorite part was the blue shushie I would always get. When I became older, it seemed to change.
Now I have a confession. The game I hated to be dragged to has become important to me. I can't play worth anything. I can barely hit the ball. It's the atmosphere at a little league game which make it so special. Watching your little cousins play this game and hopefully getting a good play. My siblings were awesome when they played (especially Brittany...shhhhh, don't tell Alex) and they could get some great plays. Well, Alex did a lot of dancing in the outfield when he was younger, which cracked everyone up.
I did play one year, as a side note. It's not exciting. I'd much rather play soccer any day than some sport where you stand in the outfield and wonder if the ball might make it your way. I just couldn't get into it.
If you ever go to a ball game, it's like a family reunion plus some. Friends are there. Church family is there. Family family is there. Everyone shows up to cheer on their future major leaguer.
And did I mention the food. Hot dogs. Shushies. Pop corn!
Wow, it makes me miss going. Now I need to find some kids who still play and go watch them. Any volunteers?

ClicK

2011-04-21T17:22:00.000-05:00

You know it's really simple. All I I have to do is obey Him. He's going to take care of me if I'll just be patient. Maybe He's only giving one step at a time. If that's all He's showing then it's the step I should take. He's been around a lot longer than I have. Who am I to second guess Him?
So I'm trying to branch out into this photography business. Honestly it's kinda funny I'm trying to do it. I used to admire people's work and never thought it was for me. Who could enjoy making people pose while you take pictures? Well...that person would be me.
The thing is, I'm really not looking to make a ton of money. Yes, a profit might be nice. That isn't the point. God's given me a gift and a nice camera. I want to use it to glorify His name. I want to bless people. And I also love doing it. It's amazing how much I like doing it. The only thing I could compare it to is riding horses, but it's still a different love than that. It's amazing to look at a picture and think, hey, I did that.
Also, I named my business In His Image. It's a funny story. One day last week I was trying to come up with a name, because I didn't want anything to cliched. I talked to Heather and had one name in mind, but it didn't feel right. When I arrived at work I flipped over the devotional I have on my desk and it was about how God created me and you in His image. It was absolutely amazing. I knew right then what the name would be. Well I questioned some important people but consensus says: In His Image!

Genesis 1:27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

Just Think

2011-04-15T18:52:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I have to stop and think about what I'm doing. I say this because the other day I was standing with a couple friends, talking, when they began doing something I hate. Gossiping. And about one of my friends. So I walked off...and went to the bathroom. While there I was thinking about how annoying when it hit me. I do it too! Maybe not to the same degree as some people, but what does it matter. I shouldn't be talking about anyone...no matter how justified I think it may be.
So God followed me in there and pointed at the mirror.
Now later in the week I get a text from my good friend Amanda. It was about racism in the church. She just happened to notice one of those Dixie shirts and it hit her how a shirt like that could offend someone. I mean, I'm not going to see a Confederate flag and think racism. My friend in high school pointed out the shirt and told me it was racist and represented a horrible time in history. Before then I'd never thought of it like. I just thought they were cute...especially the one with the little chicks. If I were to wear this shirt, cute or not, into our Bible study in the housing authority, it may hinder my testimony. You tell us this Jesus loves us , but you're representing enslavement and separation and horror.
How could this shirt affect your ministry?
And it could be anything?
We're in a diverse world surrounded by tons of different people. In this diverse world, we're are supposed to be a light, a beacon. What if every little action determines where someone spends eternity?
Before I get into this and start beating you up remember we're human. I'm human. You're human. That little boy down the hall is human. I'm going to make mistakes as are you.
We still have to stop and think sometimes. What I do here will affect eternity and I don't want a stupid joke to send someone in the wrong direction.
In "Love is an Orientation" by Andew Marin, ( which I highly recommend) he mentions how using the term homosexual is very offensive to gay people. The term is associated with hell and damnation and judgement and, with how biblethumping and homophobic, Christianity has become they are hurt by the term. In the book he tells of a woman who went to her coworker and apologized for using it and he began crying.
It's something very simple to us. I would never stop and think about it till I read this. It's like that shirt.
Just think about it.

My Name is Megan and I am a ____________

2011-04-10T15:26:00.000-05:00

In the past year, since I began working at this job God has been dealing with me on so many issues. Like I like to call a few people jokingly, I am a problem child. Really I am. If you get right down to it, since Genesis 3 we've all become problem kids with these wicked little thoughts and selfish ambitions. I didn't start this blog to talk about how awful I am...actually I won't tell you most of my problems, but I'm going to start with one because I need to get it off my chest.
My name is Megan and I am a perfectionist.
There, I finally admitted it. And you know the first step toward fixing a problem is always this one.
It's always been there and maybe I'm not as bad as some people. I mean, in high school I had someone explain the difference between a good and bad "A." Still don't understand that one, but I know I'm not that bad.
My perfection boils down to a deep desire to control everything through busting my butt. Not as hard as some people, I've busted my butt through my life. High school there were late night spent studying and reading and whatever. High school really wasn't that bad. There was one week, the only moments I wasn't studying was when I was sleeping.
OK, that doesn't count because I had American History haunting my dreams. (Sidenote: I made a 4 on my AP US History test. For those who don't note AP, this is good.)
College I didn't work quite as hard. I did stress a lot and when it came to my major I busted it. But I didn't work as hard. I also worked a part time job. I didn't join the college paper because of marching band and making money.
I was able to buy my truck, thanks to God, when I got out with cash.
Perfectionism: I'm pretty sure I didn't work hard enough in college. Dude, I could've had straight A's and a 4.0 in college if I'd work harder than I did.
What about putting resumes out and working for that paper? Definitely not working hard enough.
Maybe if I tried a little bit harder I could do better.
It's getting bad though. I keep messing up and when it's pointed out I'm frustrated. God pointed this out today on my ride home from church this morning. The whole weekend has been bad on that note. It's been a great weekend, but it's been those moments when someone corrects me.
So, yes I have a problem and I'm praying to work through it. It's childish at times, even.
Please pray for me. Mainly cause I'm really going to try to change, but it's hard to quit when you're trying to be perfect.
Only Jesus is perfect. He's who I need to put all my faith in. He's going to put me in the right job. He's going to lead me to the right man.
Everything I'm doing now should be glorifying God, not myself. I can not do this on my own; my perfection says otherwise. He has me where I am for a reason and I'm tired of fighting it. How many people at my job are impacted by me if I'm trying to be perfect?

Tase Me, Bro

2011-04-06T21:31:00.000-05:00

May 4. The date which will live in infamy. Our youth pastor, Daniel, and his two trusty sidekicks (why he gets two, I don't understand) have agreed to be tased if 175 students show up our church. It has me thinking what would I do to see one kid get saved. I mean, look up pictures of people getting tased. It ain't pretty. Go grab an electric fence for crying out loud. (Did that accidentally this morning) How many youth groups tase their ministers?
Now back to the question: what would you do to see someone saved? To see someone come to a relationship with Jesus.
Now there are being people, family and friends, who I want and pray to see come to this. But how far will I go to see it come to pass. If you haven't noticed I'm just trying to tell someone about Jesus. But would I allow myself to get tased? Heck yea!
Actually getting tased may not be the worse thing to experience. Now...would I move to Africa? Dance like a fool? Learn Japanese?
This is a big deal. We're talking about a distinct line between your family going to heaven or hell. How far will you go to make sure they come to love Jesus and except Him as Lord of their life?
The pain of being tased can't last more than a few seconds...unless...we'll leave that out. An eternity in hell last, well, an eternity.
I don't want my friends, family....anybody....suffering through that.
So go ahead and tase me (or Daniel) if it means someone lives.

What are you waiting for?

2011-04-04T18:25:00.000-05:00

I wanted to write this a few weeks ago, but my schedule and brain have both been a little crazy. It still rattles my mind and am now sitting down to do it if I don't get distracted by food or a storm. Every Wednesday and Monday night, after church/ bible study, I pass by a bar which I will leave unnamed for this blog. This unnamed bar always has a full parking lot on these nights I pass it. The only time it isn't full is Sunday...for obvious reasons. Everytime I look at it and think about stopping. No, not for a quick shot of Jack Daniels and a game of pool. How many lost people are sitting in there at that moment? Laughing and drinking and pretending to have a good time. If you like the bar scene, that's fine I guess. But every bar I've been in has left me feeling saddened for the locals. It's a dressing scene. Everyone drinking. Fake laughter...or what I call fake laughter. Anything assisted with the use of a substance is a little fake. I don't have anything against drinking either. I've had a few drinks before, not to the point of intoxication, but I have drank. Alcohol is fine; it's what they're be serving at the great banquet in heaven. When it gets to where you have to have it to have a good time, there's a problem. I don't need to get on that box. Actually I'm way off subject.
What if I walked into that bar and began telling people about Jesus? Or began building relationships so I can share the gospel? It's a thought. I never stop and do it. For one, some one from church would see my truck there.
Once a friend of mine had the title of this as her text signature and it made me think. What am I waiting for? In spreading the gospel. The bar is just a starting point, but how many other situations am I in where I can share the gospel.
Check out ugbcopelika.com and listen to this week's sermons because it gets more indepth...as a side note.

I've talked about Jesus and church and the Bible with people, but I've never shared the gospel outside of a few events. I keep making it a challenge to tell someone about about Jesus. But when. I don't want these people to go to hell. What am I waiting for? They aren't going to ask me. I've only had one person ask to go to my church...never someone ask who this Jesus is. I have to make the step to speak to them. Whether it's in a bar or at my job or when it's running a 5 K.

What am I waiting for?

What's love got to do with it?

2011-03-08T17:11:00.000-06:00

It's a beautiful Saturday morning, with the rain pouring outside and my mom sitting across from me. The last few days I've had something on my mind. The subject of my thoughts is love. The kind where you find that one amazing guy God designed just for you and you are going to spend the rest of your lives together till one or the other dies. That stuff, which I have yet to find and may never find if Jesus so chooses. That's right, I said it. Jesus may choose for me to live the life of singleness and I am perfectly OK with that. I'm not saying I'm against marriage and relationships...if a godly man walked into my life I would not be against it. Sometimes I do get a little lonely, but that's normal. I also pray I can be content with my Savior, lover and Lord. Paul even says in 1 Corinthians 7:20-40 in a few brief words he considers it better to remain unmarried so as if to stay focused on the Lord. It makes sense. Right now I believe I'm doing as a single lady and feel I am using this time to grow in my walk.
The thing which has been plaguing my mind is how focused our culture, and more specifically, some Christians, are on the relationship status of people. It's like if you aren't married or in a relationship there’s something wrong with you. I know people don’t think like this, but I have had a few people make comments like “You aren’t married yet?” or “We need to find you a man.” Look people. I’m waiting for Jesus to lead the right man in my life and, for the most part, am not in a hurry. Also, asking me if I’m married makes you look stupid. Do you see a ring or a husband? Just saying. Course it is funny when your dad is explaining how much he wants grandkids.
I think I keep getting off track a little. Marriages: everyone is focused. Back on track.
It’s not that I have a problem with everyone being happy and trying to make all their friends happy, but you don’t have to be in a relationship to be happy. You should find in the Lord, not in another person. I hope that by one day getting I can glorify God, but until then I want to glorify God through my singleness. Marriage really isn’t a necessity, despite the opinions of more than a few people.
I also don’t want you to read this and be like ‘don’t set her up.” Of course if a certain pastor gets that out of this, then it might be OK. I may not be able to meet people any other way. I’m saying don’t set me up with every person you meet, whether he loves Jesus or not. I’m content as is and will not date just anyone.
Anyway, thanks for reading my thoughts on the subject. It’s been playing on my mind since a Bible study and I had to get it out. I also had a little trouble getting all these thoughts together. I think my crazy job is draining my brain.

Run with Endurance

2011-02-28T17:50:00.000-06:00

In four weeks, I am running my first 10 K in Mobile, Alabama. The Azalea Trail 10 K. It's supposed to be a big deal with a bunch of free stuff at the end, not much of it I like. I'm running it with Dad. I am so excited although at this moment I'm glaring at the weather, which is preventing me from a good outdoor run. Running has grown from something I did every now and then in high school for the heck of it to something I love to do. It has to be one of the greatest things ever and, unless you're entering crazy stuff like 10Ks, is absolutely free. It's addicting. Literally. If you get all sciencey it releases endorphins which make you feel great and this gives you a high. You can get it with any exercise, but at this time it's called the runner's high and I am addicted. In fact, sitting right here my entire body is going "C'mon, you need to run in the dark. You know you want to." Another reason I love it is because of the freedom to explore new trails and roads and you can do it anywhere. I love running on the beach especially in the morning when the sun is coming up. The air clears your head. It's a God moment. Thank You for my legs. Running makes me feel great-from the high to how toned my body gets. Staying healthy is very important. I can go on forever on how everyone should keep themselves in shape, but I want to think of happy things like running. All I'm saying is our bodies are now the temple of God and you should read the sections in Exodus, Nehemiah, 1 Kings and some of the old prophets where these people so much time to build the temple of God. And now that temple is you so you should take just as much care to take care of it. There...can't go five minutes without something important to say. Sigh. Maybe I'll drive home and get on a treadmill so at least I can satisfy my impatient, but sore, legs.
iRun

Pirates!

2011-02-23T17:18:00.000-06:00

Yesturday my dad called me and told me he didn't want to buy a sailboat anymore. His dream was to retire, buy a sailboat and sail around the world, or at least the Carribbean, until yesturday. Why did he change his mind? On the news, if you haven't heard the story, this couple retired and began sailing around the world passing out Bibles. At some point they were stopped by Somoli pirates and killed. You'd have to look the story up to get facts, but this is about it. Isn't that awesome? While passing out Bible they were murdered by pirates! I mean, I'm sad for them, but think about it. They could've died comfortable in a retirement home down in Florida perfecting their golf swing, but instead they traveled the world and taking the gospel with them. That's how I want to die. And by Somoli pirates. Dude, that's amazing! And they're story is being broadcasted apparently, and even if it's small it's getting out there. I don't want to die in selfish luxury; I want to die taking the Word to the world. And pirates would be a pretty cool end.

Matthew 24:14 (New International Version, ©2010)

And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.

Let's get out of our comfort zones and show the world what who our God is.

F is for Friends

2011-02-22T18:55:00.000-06:00

The last couple of weeks haven't been the best. Work has been getting to me plus stress from all these big decisions in life. Trying to figure out God's will. Yesturday I ended up going to my homie Jenn's house, which I haven't gotten to do in a while. So much has been going on and all and it's been crazy around here on both sides. All we did is walk up and down here driveway at a casual pace talking about life, liberty and Mark Driscoll. Then we ate the best salad ever and went to Ms. Jerri's for Bible study. But it was amazing!!! And I feel back to normal...a little tired after a long busy day, but this is Megan again. I think working at where work is a little stressful for everyone and then all my decisions and praying. Anyway, that's not what this is about. My father used to say, well he said a lot of things, but one of the things he used to say all you need in life is one good friend in life. For the most part, I've always had good friends. Carrie has been my bestest friend for forever, but with me living in Opelika and her still in Griffin we don't see each as much or talk as much. I never thought I was missing anything and maybe at the time I wasn't. And yes, Jesus is enough. But as God provided me for Jenn, and she likes to point out, I think God's definitely using her and this friendship in my life. She is a great friend. God gave me you!! My shout out to one of three of my blog fans. If anyone else reads this, I'd really like to know.

The Armor of God

2011-02-17T08:53:00.004-06:00

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

The Armor of God

2011-02-17T08:53:00.001-06:00

Tell a Friend

2011-02-15T19:19:00.000-06:00

So last week, well for a while, I've been thinking about my Christian walk and what it means to be a Christian. I've always in the past thought, I need to tell people about Jesus and then I try. Cept I don't try, I chicken out or miss opportunities or whatever. But this is an essential part of the Christian faith. Like that guy in the Bible who found the pearl and sold everything to buy the field it's in. That's how big this message is we have. Actually way bigger than that pearl. People's souls are at stack. Millions of people are dying and going to hell and I'm too afraid to give them the good news. Anyway, I've been thinking about it a lot, and finding it everywhere, and then I get Mitchell's blog which is all about this topic. It's like God's going hello, I'm talking to you!! Yes, you kid. So that's been my goal all week: to tell at least one person about Jesus. That's all I need, one opportunity. What's bad is I'm going to bed dreaming about it now. I have to tell someone. How can I call myself a follower of Christ if I don't tell anyone? No one is going to walk up to me and ask why am I so happy all the time. I have to go tell people. Share this pearl I have stumbled upon. So this is my challenge to myself: tell at least one person about Jesus this week. By midnight Saturday. Once I get used to it, I'm sure it'll come easier. I just have to get into the practice of doing and I have to start somewhere.
http://sanctuary247.com/MD/

Musical Testimony

2011-02-15T19:08:00.001-06:00

OK, so some people get really crazy with this and I have nothing wrong with secular music. I mean it took me a while to get to this point (2 years) and I'll still hear it and start singing along. I also wrote a blog about it. Anyway, about two years ago I felt I should stop listening to my secular music. It was one of those pressing on your heart moments. So I went through my music and got rid of the worse stuff. At that I was content. I listened to country music and classic rock...for the most part. Some of it I had to change the station. I also listened to the majority of Christian, but I would alternate stations and whatnot. So a few months ago, my Ladies Bible Study did a 40 day fast of different stuff for a reason. I fasted all books with the exception of the Bible (that's a whole nother story). Honestly I had been thinking of getting rid of the rest of my secular music too. At this point I only listened to the majority of Christian music. I had maybe 10 secular albums on my Ipod and I would flip to different stations sometimes on my radio. Anyway...bc I get sidetracked...my friend Kayla did fast secular music. We joked she could only listen to Chris Tomlin. Ms. Jerri, the woman who leads our study, said something powerful ab it and I can't remember what it was, but it struck me and when I got home I opened to where I was reading in I think Levitus where God's telling the Isrealites "hey, I told y'all to take out all these other communities but you left em. Now they're going to be a thrown in your sides" (Megan paraphrase) So I knew I had to get rid of what was left and it was surprisingly easy. Like, I love "Jesus musik" (That's a song, btw) I love praising God and it makes me focus on Him. I feel like I can better glorify His name listening to music prasing Him. This is also my story and I have nothing against anyone else listening to it. You aren't going to hell bc you listen to secular music. You'll go to hell bc you don't have a personal relationship with Jesus. I have to agree I'm passionate about music. Love it!! Any more q's, feel free to ask.

It's Not Funny

2011-02-09T17:32:00.000-06:00

Yesturday I was pulling out off my street when a F150 drove by with the words "Tommy's Hoe" written across the top of the windshield. I've seen people with stop like this, some far worse, but this caught my attention for a moment. Actually, it kinda made me sad. I've heard guys call girls stuff like this or the girls refer to themselves like this and they do it jokingly. For some reason they think it's hilarious to call themselves this or something worse. Before a couple of years ago I would have shook my head and not thought much of it. Only now I realize there is something wrong. These women deserve so much better. Do they even really think it's funny? I've said it in a previous post: these women were created by and in the image of an amazing God who thinks so much of them. They are so much more than just Tommy's hoe. If you think of yourself as a hoe, let me sit you down and explain to you how much more important you are. God loves you and has a special plan just for you, as long as you let Him. Those words aren't funny; they're insulting. They insult both you and your awesomeness and they also insult my God and His creation.
And to the Tommys of the world, how dare you say this to a woman. This is a woman of God and you want to call her a hoe. She deserves so much more than you. She needs to be uplifted. Maybe you are joking, but it's not funny. What you should do is go get her some flowers, brush your hair and tell her how beautiful she is. Stop with your insulting jokes.
She is worth so much more.

Cheating

2011-02-04T22:47:00.000-06:00

About a week ago I received a message from someone who's doing a research project on cheating. In it she asked a couple of questions about my (well, everyone's) opinion on cheating. At first I was thinking like cheating on a test...can you see how stretched my mind's been lately. Course she wasn't, but I have just as strong opinions on this as on the other. Actually, maybe a little stronger.
Cheating is a wrong. I could break it down and call it adultery. That would save me from from confusing it with the other cheating.
Now why do I believe this? Well, it's breaking a covenant when someone cheats. When someone says their vows, it means for life. God designed marriage to be between a man and a woman till death do y'all part. Genesis 2:24 says for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to be his wife, and they will become one flesh. Marriage is an union between two people, one flesh, and cheating disrupts this adding another person. I mean, once you get into Leviticus, the punishment under the old law was pretty harsh. Thank God for grace.
God also says he hates divorce in Malachi, and cheating often leads to that. I hate divorce too.
That's just a simple basis of why I don't like it. I could get deeper into it, but I'm going to move on.
I've seen the consequences of what cheating does. I've never cheated on anyone, seeing as I've never really even dated anyone. I have assumptions on why someone might cheat, but they aren't set in stone. (I think I know more of being on the other side) I don't think it matters male or female on who's more likely. Although there are vast difference between the genders, they probably boil down to the same. We're all sinners and it's in our nature. In the Bible, Jesus even says if you lust after a man ( or woman) you've commited adultery in your heart. Which means about all of us have commited it. That's why we needed a Savior. But the act is a whole nother story...what makes a person go for it? Like I said, I have thoughts.
Now the personal deepfound reason of why I don't like cheating is because, other than how it disrupts the covenant of marriage, it leaves deep marks on a relationship...relationships. The person who you cheated on feels betrayed. Yes, forgiveness is possible and I highly encourage reconcilation, but it's a painful process. If you have a family, you aren't just hurting your spouse. Feeling of betrayal, of embarrassment and distrust. It'll be hard to build this trust back. What about if the kids find out? More than likely they'll feel just as betrayed. It could have lasting consequences on their lives.
Fortunately, in my life I think it shaped me into the woman I've become. Yes, I still have issues, but Jesus has definitely helped me through my past. God has used my experiences to grow me. Looking back I can see where He used every experience to strengthen my walk with Him. Not saying it didn't hurt. It did and, like I said, I hate divorce. I don't like cheating. I've watched how it's hurt people and is hurting people right now. I actually would like to hurt anyone who cheats on their spouse. On their family.
I remind myself of a lot of things and try to pray for them instead. Something I have to understand is they're hurting too. Course it's hard, especially when you see someone you love hurting from the actions of someone else. The ignorant actions of a sinful man. And I say man as general man or woman. Let's face it: God loves them too. They are made in His image and regardless of what they do, He loves them. I have to pray for God to help me pray for them and see them as He sees them.
If you want to get down to it, we've all commited adultery against Him. We've chosen to sin against a holy God. That's a deep subject that I don't think I can start on in this blog. Actually I should keep to cheating.
This sounds really scatteredd to me and maybe I should have actually written it out and edited it before I posted it, but I'm just going with this. It's late and I'm tired. Thanks for sticking with me to this point.

Entertain Me

2011-01-30T12:54:00.000-06:00

I was sitting her talking to my Grandma after our trip to Crestview, Florida, to see my cousin Therresa. She was doing a crossword and the question was what city in Russia is hosting the 2014 Olympics. Course I didn't know; I don't keep up with stuff like that. This led to discussion about how it seems there are more and more events every year.
Let's think about it:
Every two year somewhere in the world is hosting the Olympics. The World Cup shows up every few year. We stopped talking about here, but let's go farther. How many award ceremonies, such as the grammies, are there every single year? Then there's football season, NASCAR season, Baseball, basketball, poker...just to name a few. Not that there's anything wrong with any of this. I personally get excited the moment I catch sight of a motor home crusing into Auburn the week before the first game day.
I'm just thinking isn't this going in a circle. Every year is the same old thing and for what?
Entertainment, right?
I don't really follow the Olympics much. I despise award shows.
Are we spending our time right, though?
We'll look at Auburn football, a tradition I cherish. And yes, I have seen people take it to extremes and spend way too much time and money on it. We aren't talking about them; we're talking about me. Actually there's no we because I'm talking about me.
Am I using the four or so hours I spend watching a ball game and the whole days I spend camping justly? Is it right to spend $30 or so on a football ticket.
Would God see it as right?
On the same level, it is an excellent ministry. One Saturday last fall, Momentum went and passed out Chik-fil-A biscuits and gave the gospel. It was the most incredile time I'd ever had in Auburn. That include game days with the band. It beat marching pregame and it takes a lot to beat that in my book.
I also think of Paul somewhere in the New Testament when he quotes a poet. I think it's somewhere in Acts. I don't know much about this story, but he's talking to someone and uses the quote.
Following Auburn football, or whatever it is in those categories, may give you an opening to lead into the gospel. Build a relationship, but let them see Jesus is the center or your life. I mean, they're going to see a difference when they go to your tailgate and hear no foul language and see no passed-out drunks.
Meanwhile I'm going to continue praying about entertainment and how God wants me to go about it. Here's an excellent ministry opportunity, but I don't want to go about it wrong.

Beautiful

2011-01-26T17:37:00.000-06:00

Everything God has creates is beautiful. There is little in this world you can look at and not be amazed at it's amazingness. Do you realize how much detail is in everything? Imagine the human body. Think back to biology and consider how complex it is. Ice is another thing that is beautiful, although dangerous.
You too are beautiful. Each person is uniquely made. In Jeremiah God says "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you. Before you were born I set you apart." He designed you for a reason and has a plan just for your life. If you don't think you're special, then I have to tell you you're wrong. There's a whole love letter called I like to call The Bible, which disagrees. God looks at you and sees a beautiful woman or handsome young man whom He has specifically called to share in His adventure.
Stop focusing on those minor details. You are beautiful just the way you. God loves you. He sent His Son to die on the cross and take the wrath which was meant for us so He can have an intimate relationship with you. So remember you are wonderfully and uniquely made for God's purpose.

Explanation

2011-01-19T17:26:00.000-06:00

To whom it may concer,
Although it is not needed, I think I might need to explain. Some people just misunderstand my reasons behind my decision. I listen to Christian music and I like it. And yes, I completely gave up listening to secular music. This does not mean I hate secular music. In fact, I still like many songs although not as much as I use too. I also don't think you're going to hell because you listen to it. That's not my decision to make and I don't know your heart. That's something you have to take up with God. I'm not going to condemn you or judge you. You can listen to whatever you want to; I don't care. You also don't have to change the station, although I'd prefer not listening to stuff with cussing or sexual innuendos.
The reason I switched and cut secular music out is for the glory of God. Simple as that. Christian music focuses my attention on God. And let's face it, I love singing about Jesus. Like 88.7 says daily, it's uplifting. I want my Lord to be glorified in everything I do and I can't listen to music that doesn't do that anymore. It's not you, it's me. Like David Platt said in a sermon I listened to the other day, the closer you get to Jesus, the more like Him you'll become.
One musician, Bach, said something, roughly paraphrased, on the subject. What's the point of music if it doesn't glorify God?
So here's the reason: I love Jesus! I'm radically in love with Him. I'm not saying you aren't, but this is how I express it.
Sorry if you didn't understand and I hope you do now.

Love,

Megan

Review of Then Sings My Soul by Robert Morgan

2011-01-15T16:02:00.000-06:00

I have to admit, I’m not quite finished with Then Sings My Soul by Robert Morgan, but I’m almost there. I have high praise for this book, which gives a story for each of the hymns presented in the book or their authors. It contains approximately 150 hymns, most I’ve heard of and sang in church and some I haven’t. You can tell the author did his research on each song. The stories are in depth and interesting. I’m reading a few each night. I could see using some of the stories in a sermon, if I ever became a preacher woman (not really happening…it’s a joke). I think if you love music or just learning the history of something you would like this book. God has moved in powerful ways in the lives of these men and women featured in the books with their hymns. It’s amazing how God brought these songs into creation, like Silent Night. This hymn appeared because the church organ broke before the Christmas Eve service and the men never knew it would spread like it did. I plan on sharing this book with a lady at my church who loves hymns and music. I think you would enjoy it to. I received it from booksneeze.com.

God's Girls Conference

2011-01-15T15:47:00.000-06:00

Today I was able to go with my grandma to the God's Girls Conference led my Ms. Jackie. Ms Jackie is a wonderful woman of God who I have come to love and admire. She wrote a good book, which I read before I met her. It covers her life, how she came to God and how she's been living for Him. I highly recommend it; just ask me when you see me and I'll see if I can get you a copy.
Anyway, the Spirit really moved at this conference today. The speakers, Ms Jackie and one of her friends, had so much to say and you could see their love for Jesus. I hope people can look at me and say man, she really loves Jesus.
Ms. Jackie spoke about suddenly moments. You know, those moments when God just moves and suddenly something happens and nothing will ever be the same. Like that night when I lay on my couch watching a movie on Hallmark and cried out to God because I wanted to be doing something and felt like I was doing nothing. The next morning Amanda texted me and soon we were doing the Backyard Bible Club.
These moments come when you least expected and afterward life will never be the same. And you don't want them to go back to normal. Like the crippled lady in Luke 13. When Jesus came into her life, everything in her life changed. It's those suddenly moments that do make a difference.
The second message was what really spoke to me. It was from 2 Samuel 21 when David repaid the Gibeonites for what Saul did to them. The reason they got into their mess was because 200 years prior, Joshua did not consult with the Lord when the Gibeons came to him. It spoke to me because when I went to collage, I never consulted God. I don't regret it and I think it still was right, but what difference would it have made if I had. Maybe I wasn't supposed to go into jounalism. There's no telling what God would have said. For now on, though, I will take every matter to Him. I'm human and could mess up, but everything should go before my Lord. He knows the right way I should go.
I have no idea where my next step will lead me. I'm hoping Kenya, but there is no telling. Only Jesus knows where God's name can be glorified most in my life.

God is great.

Pray and Go

2011-01-12T17:55:00.000-06:00

Prayer has been big on my mind lately. Everywhere I look I'm seeing something about prayer. Articles, scriptures, you name it, it's about prayer. This happened a couple of years ago, but not to this extreme. The last I read through the whole New Testament, that's what stood out to me. How many times pray is in there. I even tried memorizing one of the verses. Notice try because, I can't quite remember it, but Paul was asking someone to continue praying for him while he was in prison.
It's amazing.
We forget how big our God is. Prayer is just conversation with Him. Learning more about Him, asking questions, asking for stuff...not just stuff, spiritual stuff like helping me glorify His name everyday in my job. I was listening to this one sermon and the guy was talking about his kids and how they're always asking questions. Why is the sky blue? Why do the leaves change colors? Why does it get so cold? Another preacher was talking about how his kids, at the fair, kept asking for stuff. Can we play this game? Can we get some cotton candy? Can we go see the goats?
We should have this same relationship with our Father. Come to Him as kids. He wants to spend time with us. He wants to take care of us. Why do we think we can go around through life on our own without asking for help. We can't.
I wonder how much more I could accomplish if I prayed more.
Another thing, think how much Jesus prayed. He was always getting away and praying, usually at night. He only had three years of ministry, but He made sure He spent time with His Father. As Christians, we should making this same effort. Pray continuously.
We act like it's not important. Like two minutes before going to bed is enough to get us through the day. If I only took two minutes to spend time with dad, my earthly dad, how would my relationship be? Not all that great. When I took to him I get into deep conversations, discuss my views, ask questions, get answers. It's not a two minute "Thank you for this day and help me through tomorrow" deal.
Sometimes I think we look at those people who spend so much time in prayer as extreme cases and excuse ourselves, saying we aren't that holy. Maybe not, but at least try. We're striving to be like Christ. Pray for Him to teach you how to pray. The disciples even asked Jesus how they should pray.
Now my challenge to you: get down on your knees and pray. Write it down if you have to, but focus all your attention on God. Have a full conversation with your Papa.

Reach the world?

2010-12-23T17:09:00.000-06:00

I was driving to grandma's house right after I got off today, and admist the craziness that is called holiday traffic I see this boy walking down the road. Like I always do when I see people walking down the road, the thought swept my mind if picking him up. Before I get told every reason why this is not safe, I'm going to say I know and would probably never do it (although today I wondered if God would want me to ignore my instincts and the millions of people I know who would tell me I'm crazy. So this kid is walking; he was maybe thirteen and this thought passes though and then I notice something. It's freezing outside and he has no coat on. None. I have a stack of coats at my house I'm about to take to our coat drive. And this kid is walking down the road in short sleeves, either holding something in his hands or trying to keep his hands warm. Couldn't really tell. Here I am in my truck with the heat going and a Carhartt on. Not to mention about 10 coats in my closet at home to keep and 10 on the floor to go to our drive.
Did I mention why I'm driving to Grandma's?
To pick up a box of Christmas food for this family who almost didn't have Christmas. Their story is a whole nother blog.
We're doing this coat drive. Yay, good for us. And although I type that sarcastically, it really is a good thing and for a little bit I was proud to be doing something. Still am glad we're doing something. But is it enough. We'll get those coats out there to people who need them. But what are the odds of me tracking this one boy down? Not only that, we can't help everyone.
I don't feel like I'm doing enough.
Anyway, bring every used coat, scarf, blanket, whatever to Union Grove. The more we get, the more we help.

It Happens

2010-11-24T22:00:00.000-06:00

Driving home from work today, and I look back and smoke is billowing out from under my truck. Bad too. I pull over and hop out. Long story short, something blew on the radiator...one of the valves. I don't know mechanics. Even though the guy told me several times. But I can point right to where it is. It's just funny how things like this happen. My entire life has been built around it happens. All you can do is deal with it and pray God's glory will shine through somehow. God is great. Sometimes I get a little defeated. Not today. I was quite cheerful for someone who was once again standing by the road with strangers. Cute firefighter strangers, but still strangers. Looking back on my life, it's those moments that have made me into who I am. It happens. And I'm not just talking about those small times where my tire blew on the interstate or when ran into some other kid at a band competition in the middle of a show (who's bright idea was it for me to back up anyway?) Those big things, the really bad ones that I'm not going to mention in cyberspace: those are the one's that make me Megan. Every little bit of my character came from something back there. Maybe I could pinpoint it is I tried. Thank God for every moment He allowed in my life. And maybe I can thank Him one day for these things today, these problems. The waiting. It happens.

Short little post

2010-11-11T17:22:00.002-06:00

So I keep getting told I should start a blog, which this is. So I'm guessing I will start one eventuallu on word press. But for now I'm using this one. I just wrote this amazing bio on facebook and then deleted it. It would have fit perfectly right here. It was pretty amazing. I'm sure I'm supposed to have some great statements to say here. Something about life. I'm out of stuff to say at this moment. So I'm ending my short little blog.

Review of The Least Among Us

2010-10-14T17:30:00.003-05:00

It took me a while to sit down and watch this. I received The Least Among Us from blogspot.com about two weeks ago, maybe more. By the time this review gets finished it will be a lot more. Maybe a whole month. It wasn't something I'd usually watch, but it turned out pretty good. A little slower than I'm used to. The characters were a little cliched, especially the roommate or the guy with a chip on his shoulder. It was overall a good story with a good ending. It was based on a true story so that's always a nice added touch. Somehow I got confused about the prison at the beginning. I think I was expecting to be about the guy going to prison not the story of how this guy overcame his own prejudices and the prejudices of the university. The acting was good. I probably would never watch this movie again. Although good, it was slow and I had a hard time focusing. Besides it's not a movie I would usually watch. I'm not the based on a true story kind of girl unless it's Seabiscuit. Once again I received this from booksneeze.com and hope you enjoyed my review.

Review of The Butterfly Effect

2010-09-17T08:41:00.001-05:00

The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews is a small book that blew me away completely. I was expecting a cute story about how what you do affects the world with a sweet moral ending. What I ended up reading was a powerful historical story of how someone actually impacted the world. The first story was one I’d never heard and one that overwhelmed me in its significance. The other story and the events leading to changing the world made me think more of how each action on my part can have a huge significance in the scheme of things. I had heard the story of George Washington Carver before, but this put it in a whole new perspective. I let a friend read it and she also enjoyed the book. She said she read through it twice. Before I began reading it, I planned on passing it on as a gift to someone who likes butterflies. It was difficult to pass it on after reading it though. I highly recommend this book to anyone. It’s a small book, but will have a huge impact on your thoughts. I received the book from booksneeze.com. Everyone should read it as soon as possible.

Beyond Opinion Review

2010-09-16T12:46:00.003-05:00

Beyond Opinion by Ravi Zachari is an excellent, although sometimes deep, book compiled of several essays from different people on topics relating to Christianity. Topics include teaching youth, atheism and the Muslim. The authors knew their subject. The depth of each essay is increased because each writer has experince with the topic raised. Some essays I found uninteresting, based on the topic and at least one was confusing to understand. I think this had more to do with my interest level than anything. I found many good points in each essay that I was willing to share with others in discussions. I did get distracted by another book, Radical, and returned to this one later. It was hard to restart in the middle. Sometimes I had problems getting into certain essays. I admit, I'm not too interested in Hinduism. I recommend it to anyone who wants to increase his or her level of knowledge of Christianity and topics relating to it. I enjoyed it.

Billy Graham

2010-06-08T10:28:00.005-05:00

Last night, before watching a great movie on Hallmark channel, I just finished "Billy Graham" by David Aikman, which covers this famous evangelist's life. There were so many things I did not realize about Billy Graham, and this biography gave me more insight into his life and influence. The biography takes a deeper look at how Graham impacted the nation spiritually and the also how he related to national affairs and the presidents. I learned a great deal about this man than I already knew, and as each page turned I was even more impressed with him. I didn't realize how his evangelism and personality had also impacted other national events such as communism or preventing our nation from going to war. Aikman did well in researching Graham's life and he answered any questions I may have had plus some. He did well in dividing up each chapter and showing each aspect of Graham's life in an organized fashion. I also enjoyed the details on Ruth Graham and how she impacted Billy's life. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone else interested in either Graham's life or history. I received this book from booksneeze.com.

I Am Hutterite by May-Ann Kirkby

2010-05-07T08:45:00.004-05:00

I wasn't sure what to expect when I ordered "I Am Hutterite" by Mary-Ann Kirkby. I've read biographies and nonfiction before, but never anything about someone running away from a community like this. When it arrived, I was excited to get started and I wasn't disappointed. It only took be a couple of days to finish reading it because I couldn't put it down. Kirkby is an excellent storyteller, making everything come alive. She fills the pages with stories of her past and who she is. There wasn't a dull moment. She really did her research on her parent's history and brought the thoughts and opinions of the other characters of her past to life. The various stories of the communitity and then after life there, added layers to her characters and the history. Kirkby did well telling about her childhood, and the research on her parents gave more meaning to the book. Overall, I enjoyed reading the book, even though it took such a short time to read it. I would recommend it to any body who would like to read an account of a girl who's entire world and mindset had to be changed to adjust to her settings.

Slow runs

2010-04-20T16:09:00.004-05:00

Something I've learned about myself recently: when I run somewhere new, I always run way slower than my normal pace. I just returned from running in a neighbourhood near my gma's house. I think it's supposed to be 1.5 miles. I know I didn't run it in 15 minutes. At least, I didn't time myself, but by looking at the clock... (I did feel good when I got back from it. This morning it rained and cooled everything down outside.) The same thing happened the other day when I added an extra .5 miles to my run. I'm going to have to learn to actually pace myself and keep my speed up. I have less than a month before the 5Ks start by the monkey park. I plan to run them with or without the rest of my family. I'm starting to think I'll be able to. It'll just be slow and embarrassing. At least for me. When I'm running I think about a couple of stories I've read in magazines of ladies in their 60s beginning to run and now they're doing marathons. I'm hoping in a few years I'll be running in marathons, but I'd also like to have a little speed on me. Maybe one day even win something. It would be nice to enter something I can win. I'm starting to think I'm never going to start barrel racing. I guess I can start on that when I'm 60.

Another Day

2010-04-19T10:33:00.002-05:00

Last week I had a really amazing ride! I was riding Bullseye with no one else around on the doctor's trails, which doesn't seem to happen to often lately. Brittany was riding with me for a little while and I keep inviting other people over to ride. Anyway, we went out and I rode around the trials. The ground has finally dried completely out so I don't to worry about Bullseye sinking in. I got into the pasture and ran him back anf forth and practiced turning at faster gaits. He does well at turning. It's the brakes that don't work too well. After riding to the part I like to call the clover patch, I rode him back to the big pasture. I worked on his 'brakes' the whole way over there. I think he finally started to understand the concept of STOP when I pull back. I was having to spin him in circles to get him stopped. Anyway. This one section I always open Star up. It's about a tenth or more long. You can't get her to stop going down it. I took him to the top of it and opened him up. And he flew. Except for one time when he tried to jump on Ruby. I can't tell who's faster, him or Star. I really want to race them one day. They run different. He's short lengthwise, but he has a lot of power. Star is longer, half-Throughbred, a barrel racer and just like to run. Bullseye's ADD kicks in sometimes. I'm going to have to get Brittany out there with me and see.

Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell Review

2010-04-16T11:25:00.004-05:00

This morning, after a quick breakfast and a stroll with the Chihuahua, I finished the last chapter of Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell. I have to admit, it is my favorite book I have reviewed for booksneeze.com. I picked it out based on the cover and because I had heard good things about Maxwell. At the same time, I have always been cautious when it comes to motivation books concerning leadership. There is no way a person can pick up a 400-page book and become a leader. Maxwell's book surprised me and I found great respect for him. He didn't make out like its an instantaneous experience becoming a leader or to even communicate with other people. He used many quotes, lots of ideas and a few good jokes to make his point. Through the whole book, he was very open about both his strengths in weaknesses and used his own experiences to help you relate. At first, I felt this was a little arrogant. When I realized he was using it to help the reader, I appreciated his personal experiences. This book can help a person, not only with large audiences or in corporations, but also as a spouse, parent or friend. There are several skills in the book that, although can't be applied instaneously, will help in the long run.

Atheist holy day

2010-04-02T12:07:00.001-05:00

I don't know if this is real or not, but I fould it quite humorous. I got it in a forward.

FLORIDA COURT SETS ATHEIST HOLY DAY In Florida , an atheist created a case against the upcoming Easter and Passover Holy days. He hired an attorney to bring a discrimination case against Christians and Jews and observances of their holy days... The argument was that it was unfair that atheists had no such recognized days. The case was brought before a judge. After listening to the passionate presentation by the lawyer, the judge banged his gavel declaring, "Case dismissed!" The lawyer immediately stood objecting to the ruling saying, "You honor, How can you possibly dismiss this case?
The Christians have Christmas, Easter and others. The Jews have Passover,
Yom Kippur and Hanukkah, yet my client and all other atheists have no such holidays..". The judge leaned forward in his chair saying, "But you do.
Your client, counsel, is woefully ignorant." The lawyer said, "Your Honor, we are unaware of any special observance or holiday for atheists." The judge said, "The calendar says April 1st is April Fools Day. Psalm 14:1 states, 'The fool says in his heart, there is no God.' Thus, it is the opinion of this court, that, if your client says there is no God, then he is a fool. Therefore, April 1st is his day. Court is adjourned." You gotta love a Judge that knows his scripture!

The Vertical Self by Mark Sayer

2010-03-08T12:00:00.003-06:00

The Vertical Self takes a good look at the identity of people today, Chrisitian and nonChristian alike. At first I had problems getting into the book and some of the early examples seemed too simple and made up. As I got into it, though, I found insight on the identity, or lack of, our culture seems to be facing. For the most part, I liked the book. The author is very insightful into the culture and observant of the many people he passes on the street. His observance of the people, knowledge of their behaviors and responses to their actions give him the credibility to write such a novel. Some of the examples he uses, such "Jim is yada yada yada" I am unsure whether I like them or not. Although they do provide excellent insight and connection to readers, I could have enjoyed a simple explanation instead. His use of popular images as examples of today's culture and identity add depth to the novel. The difference between vertical and horizontal is laid out in plain sight in this book, and does provide a good history of cultural self and relations to identity. I enjoyed the book and am glad I received it from booksneeze.com and would recommend it to any reader interested in learning more about the identity of today's people.

The Hole In Our Gospel review

2010-02-08T12:42:00.008-06:00

"The Hole in Our Gospel" by Richard Stearns, World Vision's president, calls us as Christians to a higher standard in our walk with God. Using his own story weaved with the call in the Bible to help the poor, Stearns points out how one should do as God has called them to do. The book is well written and transitions well from Stearns's life story into Biblical and other references. Stearns's own story sets up a visual for the other sections of the book. This is more than a motivation, self-help book for the Christian walk, but a book which shows the journey involves more than what one wants. Stearns's use of his own life story shows that every person is human and it can appeal to anyone, regardless of one's beliefs. Its focus is on Christians who are comfortable with their padded pews and calls them to rise. Several examples of how Jesus asks for Christians to help the poor, because by helping even the least we are helping Him. Jesus had a great love for the poor and Christians should share this love. I recommended this book if you are ready for the next step in your walk.

New Book

2010-02-04T12:54:00.003-06:00

So started reading this book, "The Hole in Our Gospel" the other and I cannot put it down. It's by Richard Stearns, the president of World Vision. So far it shows how he came to World Vision by following God's call for his life. His story weaves in with how we, as Christians, should live our life following God and doing His will. I can't wait to read more tonight.

Cold weather and job hunt

2010-01-13T13:56:00.006-06:00

With the last few months of school, riding has become scarce. Sometimes I allow 15 minutes to just spend with the horses. Since I brought Bullseye home, he has quit biting. Right now I'm on the hunt for a job. I know God has the right one in store for me, but searching for one is difficult. If all else fails, there is the Navy. I won't get to see Bullseye at all then. Maybe that isn't where I'm supposed to go, but it is an option. Right now I seem to be mostly working, looking for a job and on occasion riding. Saturday, I rode Star up the road, but it was freezing. I didn't want to chance riding Bullseye up the road in that weather. Last week it got down to the 20s and lower. There were several threats of snow, but it never came. Last time it snowed, the horses had a blast running around in the pasture. I have a ton of pictures, but they were with my old camera.

Rain, rain, rain

2009-09-18T10:37:00.002-05:00

Every chance I thought I had to ride this week was interrupted by rain. We need the rain, but at the same time why won't it rain when I'm busy. Yesturday I was sure I had a chance for a good long ride because the farther from Auburn I got, the clearer the sky look. When I got home I made lunch, which was a chore in itself since the microwave didn't want to heat, and then laid down for a power nap with Brutus. Thirty minutes later I woke up to heavy rain and thunder. I stared out the window for a minute. I'm sure Brutus thought I looked confused, because in a way, I was. I just went back to sleep. When I woke up it had cleared mostly, so Ruby and I hopped in my car and went down to see Bullseye. He was happy to see me until I tried to get on his back. After struggling a couple times to pull myself up, I led him to a fence. I think I need to work on my pushups, because it shouldn't have taken much more to climb on. Or I'm going to teach him to bow down and let me step on. I've seen it done; how hard could it be. It was a short ride because Alex wanted to go swing dancing later. Other than trying to bite my foot, Bullseye was a good boy. Tomorrow, Hope and Star are returning. They've eaten our pasture down too low. I like having them at the house, but that's OK. We're going to need grass.

Bullseye

2009-09-16T16:01:00.000-05:00

Bullseye about a year ago.

Who is Bullseye?

2009-09-16T15:23:00.000-05:00

A little more than two years ago, my dad found this young horse who belonged to a man who knew nothing about horses. This little boy had been spoiled rotten. Whenever he didn't get his way he bit or kicked. When he got his way he bit or kicked. I messed with him at their house for two days, the start of his training. By the end of the weekend he didn't kick anymore. He stopped biting until this summer when he hit his terrible three's, going on four's. Our neighbor Al gave him his name. He said he looked like he'd been shot and the head and the blood dripped down his forehead. Graphic description of his blaze, but it was a good name. Bullseye turned four last month. We've been through a lot and I believe we have a lot more to go through. Better late than never to begin documenting this guy's life.
I have two other horses, Hope and Star. Both have their own quirks and personalities and are in their teens. Bullseye's former owner said he'd been taken from his mama too young. He adopted Star and Hope as his mothers. Hope takes the responsibility as mother seriously. After the initial putting him in his place, she allows him to act as the baby. Star, on the other hand, doesn't like Bullseye. Both allow him to do whatever he wants, so of course he tries to walk over them. At this time, I have him at a friend's pasture alone.
After a six month hiatus, where Bullseye wasn't handled by anyone, I began a serious riding program at the beginning of the summer. Our farrier said he had muscles he never used before, and I didn't like having a lazy horse in the pasture. For two weeks I spent about two hours riding only Bullseye, teaching him things I should've done during the hiatus. By the end of those two weeks, he was close to perfect. The rest of the summer I rode him about 45 minutes everyday until classes started back.
Saturday was the last chance I rode him. He was up to his usual tricks. Sometime this summer, probably when we took him to another pasture for two weeks and he wasn't touched, he learned to buck. The beginning of the ride was a long series of bucks until he decided I wasn't coming off. His brakes don't work very well either, but the one-rein stop has been perfected so I helped him realize he only had to trot when I nudged him faster. We ended the ride with a hose down, which included a through cleaning. He wasn't a big fan of that and bit my shoulder. I lounged him for a few minutes, ended on a good note and went home.